Blues Out of Pioneers and Legends Trophy

By Ian Marley 1/8/2010

Australind have crashed out of the Pioneers and Legends Trophy after a 1-0 second round defeat at the hands of Bunbury Dynamos. A converted penalty kick from Michael East sent the Dynamos to the semi-finals of the competition.

The Blues started the stronger of the two teams, looking to progress in their last chance at silverware for the 2010 season. Chris Norminton and Matthew McTaminey had opportunities early following aggressive play from Shane McGirr in the Australind midfield.

Despite the pressure Dynamos looked to create chances of their own through the likes of Gonzalo Valenciaga and Djordje Jononovic in the centre. Up front for the home side Michael East squandered chances while Asher Woodward went close. On many occasions Blues defenders Peter Buckley, Michael Exeter, Anthony Alvaro and captain Brett Colombera looked rattled, but managed to keep the attackers at bay.

But in the 26th minute the home-side were fortunate enough to be handed the advantage following a controversial decision by the referee. After chasing after a long ball Asher Woodward was adjudged to have been brought down illegally by Australind keeper Ian Marley, and despite protests from the Australind players, a penalty was awarded. Michael East stepped up and coolly slotted the spot kick home giving Dynamos a 1-0 lead going into half-time

HALF TIME: DYNAMOS 1 - AUSTRALIND 0

The second half was brighter for Australind with fresh legs from the likes of Tom Simpson and youngsters Ben Ward and Joe Buckley. Simpson used his pace and height to pressure the Dynamos defenders, not giving them time on the ball. Martin Hillary, Mitchell Wood and Manny De Brito often broke under the pressure in the Dynamos defence, but an inspirational effort in goals from Sean Chinnery ensured that the home side remained in the lead.

Australind's best chance to draw scores level came mid-way through the half when Joe Buckley broke free down the line. After working a good position Buckley produced a cross that made its way to Simpson 6 yards out from goal. Rising strongly Simpson directed his header goalward, only for Sean Chinnery to pull off a magnificent save to deny him.

Long throws from Ben Ward seemed to trouble the home-side, with McTaminey and Simpson contesting in the air. Harvey and McGirr both went close to scoring but the breakthrough never came. As the game wore on Dynamos began to have the run of play as Martin Hillary went one-on-one and Mike McKenna squandered a late effort. Only spirited defending from Michael Ninness, Daniel Ward and Brett Colombera stopped the deficit from increasing.

The defeat sees Australind bow out of the Trophy and leaves them only with the league to play for. The Blues will need to win the rest of their remaining games, including another against Dynamos, to secure second place.