Warragul United fall to Richmond in opening game

Warragul suffered a disappointing first round loss at home to Richmond on Saturday in their opening State 1 fixture for 2021.

The home team were on the back foot for much of the contest after Skipper Nathan Lugton was given his marching orders after 20 minutes for two reckless tackles in quick succession. The red card perhaps the catalyst in United’s demise as they battled out the majority of the game with 10 men.

After a sprightly start, Warragul deservedly went ahead through a clinical half volley from forward Bryson Tanti after latching onto a sweeping ball across from Rory Wagner.

In windy conditions at their temporary home ground at Trafalgar, United looked to continue from a great 4-2 result the weekend prior where they accounted for Fitzroy city in round three of the FFA Cup. 

Injuries have taken their toll on Warragul early this year which has reduced the depth of a talented squad, however they still lined up strongly with keeper Liam Andersen back again as the red’s number one, with home grown products from United’s junior program, defenders Riley Dastey and Mitch Jones starting at the back. Veteran Matt Gauci marshalled the central defensive position whilst plucky 16 year old Joe Stewart made his senior debut. 

The three man midfield consisted of Captain Lugton, Xavier Nardone, who chipped in with two important goals last week, and the talismanic Rory Wagner. Up front the wiry Sammy Gatpan started on the left with newcomer Henri Scott on the right and the skilful Bryson Tanti at the nine position.

Former skipper and arguably one of United’s best ever players, Thomas Ahmadzai, returned to the club after a short stint at NPL club Langwarrin.

Once Warragul were reduced to 10 men, a previously dormant Richmond came to life and capitalised on the additional player and a couple of gifted goal scoring opportunities. They quickly drew level after a great save from Andersen was cleared out of the penalty box only to fall to the feet of a Richmond player who drove the ball low and hard into the far corner. 

In the second half another soft goal had Warragul down 3-1 yet they continued to fight on. Henri Scott hit the bar from close range after the introduction of Ahmadzai gave the reds a lift. He broke free on the right and squared to Scott who was unlucky not to score. 

A penalty claim was turned down by the referee when a vibrant Sheehan came of the pine and drove into the Richmond defence. His quick feet enabled him to round his opponent who’s trailing leg appeared to have tripped him. No cigar this time as the clock was ticking away.

Rory Wagner, United’s best on the day, was in the thick of most of the action. His guile on the ball coupled with his physicality was impressive to watch. He continued to spray the ball left and right and bring his teammates into play.

Try as they might it wasn’t to be Warragul’s day and Richmond held on for three valuable points. Had the home side not lost the skipper early, the United faithful would unanimously tell you that the result would have been quite the reverse. 

Next week Warragul take on Mornington in a tough home fixture. They are tipped as favourites to gain promotion this year and is sure to be an enthralling encounter.