Bentleigh resist attacking South to claim points

By Jack Henty of Football Federation Victoria.

Once again supporters grasped a taste of what is to come from winter 2011 in Melbourne as a healthy crowd turned out on Friday night to witness the Bentleigh Greens attempt to gain three points against South Melbourne from the Kingston Heath Soccer Complex. Fortunately for the home side they were able to narrowly get the win 1-0.

It was South Melbourne who began well, dominating possession in the midfield and functioning well in their forward half. Jesse Krnevic continued his good form from last week looking dangerous around the box and creating plenty of runs.

Bentleigh on the other hand struggled up front. The Greens’ defence were operating smoothly and were able to hold off each South Melbourne challenge in the first half.

Bentleigh gradually worked themselves into the game in the midfield as De Vries created a run and drive on the left hand side.

The crowd were getting their money’s worth as the game was played to a high standard given the spitting rain and churned up turf.

South Melbourne’s midfield dominance looked as though it would pay off when Jesse Krnevic took a blinding strike outside the box on a tight angle, only to be well saved by Bentleigh goalkeeper Zaim Zenelli.

South’s rock solid defence created by their recent additions during the transfer period hindered the Bentleigh forwards opportunities until the 31st minute when Wayne Wallace rose above the pack with a magnificent leap to head the ball into the back of the net.

It was a goal against the run of play and almost a carbon copy of his header against VTC midweek.

The goal from the Greens created a spark in their midfield as they began to increase possession through the middle of the pitch whilst South Melbourne remained stunned for the rest of the half.

The tussle continued for the remainder of the half and the scores remained 1-0 to the Greens at half time.

The Bentleigh Greens began the second half in an uncharacteristic attacking fashion pressing for their second goal.

South Melbourne continued in their renowned attacking fashion and continuously put Bentleigh goalkeeper Gavalas under pressure.

In the 50th minute Gavalas stood up and displayed a brilliant act of courage as he was able to punch away a ball that was in the path of Jesse Krnevic who was steaming down on Gavalas - a move which brought the home crowd into the game.

Bentleigh’s attacking start didn’t last long as South Melbourne continued on their way to force an equaliser.

The Greens’ defence was put under strain for the full 90 minutes, able to withstand the pressure of the South Melbourne forwards, superbly lead by Wilford.

There was another momentum swing in the match, keeping with the theme of the game and although South Melbourne made numerous inclusions into their squad during the transfer window, particularly in their defensive stocks, their defence looked shaky.

The Greens’ had a sniff that they could put the game to bed. Unfortunately for the home side and their supporters, they were unable to add to the lead and ultimately lacked the final polish to capitalise.

South Melbourne are left to lick their wounds for another week as they face the tough challenge of Heidelberg United at John Cain Memorial Park.

Meanwhile, Bentleigh Greens travel up Warrigal Road where they face top of the ladder Oakleigh Cannons in a Sunday twilight fixture.

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