United on rocky ground after frustrating second half

Warragul’s State 1 campaign remains on rocky ground as a brave United outfit fell to South Springvale on Saturday.

The home side started well and easily had the better of their opponents in the first half, yet as has been the story for the last few weeks, they conceded a sloppy goal against the run of play. A familiar trigger forcing United to attack and take risks to get back on the scoreboard.

Warragul entered the game with an again altered line up. Injuries and depth within the squad have been United’s Achilles heel this year. Team selection has been a real challenge for senior coaches Paul Cooper and Steve Maselli.

The backline were without Mitch Jones (hamstring) so skipper Nathan Lugton slipped back to marshal the defense alongside last week’s best player/coach Cooper. And marshal he did. Luggo is a jet and was easily the best player, superb on the day.

Young Joe Stewart started again on the left and put in a worthy performance whist Riley Dastey gave his all on the right against a quality opponent. 

Rory Wagner, who is relied upon heavily for his presence and sure footedness in the midfield, didn’t pull up from a midweek calf strain so Matt Maselli, who has been out for four weeks himself with a torn thigh, stepped in to replace him. He was joined by the skilful Bryson Tanti. Oscar Sheehan, who is usually on the wing, came back in as the central attacking midfielder to provide some bite with his energy and tackling.

Henri Scott worked hard at center forward, holding up the ball and chasing down the Springvale defense to force turnovers. Germaine Otieno lined up on the left wing with the plucky Sammy King on the right.

At halftime Warragul were playing well yet were down by the one goal. To be blunt, United have not had a great record in their second halves this year. This frustrating trend continued versus Springvale. They added two second half strikes in well-orchestrated attacks. Although United battled hard they were unable to get on top as a few half-chances were squandered.

As Warragul's fury rose, the players discipline began to fray. Yellow cards were brandished for dissent from Xavier Nardone, who was introduced for Stewart and Sheehan who deliberately kicked the ball at his play-acting opponent following a nasty foul.

A late goal to Henri Scott was reward for Warragul’s effort, however it was too late.

It’s early days in season 2021 but it must improve. The boys will regroup after next week’s bye with hopefully a fully fit list when they take on a quality Casey Comets away from home.