By Jonty Ralphsmith
Casey’s men have started their season with a morale-boosting 3-1 win over La Trobe University.
Following a difficult season in Vic League 1 last year, the Cannons brought in a series of players during the offseason, while early signs indicate several incumbents have taken a step forward.
Emerging talent Charlie Coster led the way, while midfielder Tristan Chaffey, returning to the club after playing hockey at a higher level, scored a third quarter goal and provided drive in an excellent showing.
Josh Watson opened proceedings, scoring from a short corner in the first quarter which immediately put scoreboard pressure on at Beacon Hills, before Chaffey’s goal gave the Cannons brief breathing space.
La Trobe University pegged one back late in the third quarter, setting the scene for a tense final stanza, until David Noney capitalised on a turnover to set up club stalwart and skipper Craig Moore for the late match-sealer.
Stepping up in the absence of the injured Adam Wadley, goal-keeper Alan McDonald made a series of important saves in an enjoyable cameo in the firsts, while the disciplined Cam Ritchie organised the defence well and was supported by Satpal Singh.
Coach Steve Noney was pleased with the way his men connected in their first official game together.
“It was very important to start the season in a positive manner and we were pretty happy with how we played and ran it out,” Noney said.
“It’s about getting the cohesion with the guys and understanding their movements and positioning which will only get better but that started really well.”
It was an excellent day for the men’s unit as a whole, with the seconds and thirds also recording wins.
It was the youngsters and recruits who led the way, with Adam Hedger, Tadhg McCurran, Austin Jacob and Prince Achandira all contributing in the seconds in their first game, while Alfie Ray made a series of clutch saves in the thirds’ 2-0 win.
Their progression, coupled with several players returning from injury in the coming weeks looks set to further strengthen the men’s unit, with their next assignment against St Bede’s, which started the season with a draw
Meanwhile, the women started their season with a 4-1 loss to Geelong and face a tough task against Monash University on Sunday afternoon.
