First loss for lady Comets

By Gavin Staindl
THE Casey Comets lost its first premier match of the season on Monday night, going down to Sandringham 2-1 at Kingston Heath Reserve.
Playing under lights, the Comets were left stunned as Sandringham scored two quick goals early in the first half.
Comets coach Debbie Nichols said the two opposition goals set the mood for the rest of the game.
“The loss was disappointing but what was more disappointing was how the girls reacted after their goals,” Nichols said.
Casey had numerous chances to clear the ball when Sandringham pressured the goals but on both scoring instances they were not able to release the ball and the home side capitalised.
Matters were not made any better when attacking midfielder Natalie Aramian went down late in the first half with a torn knee cartilage.
The second half started positively for the visitors with a second-minute goal after Lisa Cloke sneaked forward to the back post to score from a right-field cross.
The Comets continued to control the play but a lack of creativity in the forward line prevented further scoring chances.
“We didn’t work their keeper enough,” Nichols said.
“We controlled the play and Sandringham didn’t even have a shot on target in the second half but we didn’t have enough creativity in the forward line.
“It (the forward line) was just lacking the right combination.”
Casey is looking to get back on the winners list with a must-win game against the winless eighth-placed South Melbourne next week.
“They beat us in a practise match earlier this year and they have not won a game yet so they will be desperate to beat us this time,” Nichols said.
“We need the three points otherwise there will start to be a gap between us and the top teams.”