Endeavour United Soccer Club player Damien Ithier steps around a tackler during a recent State League 3 match. Damien’s brother Ted was a notable absence from the United side last Saturday after injuring his heel. Picture: Meagan Rogers.ENDEAVOUR United and Berwick City soccer clubs clashed in a State League 3 local derby at Reema Reserve on Saturday.
Berwick proved too classy for United, winning 4-1, but spectators were treated to a display of quality soccer.
Ted Ithier, a key forward, was a notable absence for United after suffering a heel injury during the week before the game.
The first 20 minutes of play wowed the crowd.
It was close contest and both teams created a number of chances that resulted in remarkable saves by the goalkeepers at both ends.
The pressure was building and the United defence was the first to give way.
Berwick attacked relentlessly and by half-time had blasted three balls into the back of the net while United had managed one late goal.
Berwick continued to pressure the United defence through the second half and aside from an attacking patch, the United defenders were continually stretched to the limit.
The Berwick City players exposed the weaknesses of the United side and scored one second-half goal to record a three-goal victory.
United played with spirit from whistle to whistle, but needs to lift their output to have a hope of creeping up the division ladder.
The United reserves also lost 1-4 to Berwick.
On Saturday, Endeavour United travels to Monbulk Recreational Reserve to tackle Monbulk at 3pm.
