Altona’s finals dream turned into a night mare, after getting thrashed 5-1 by Camberwell on Sunday at the State Hockey Centre in Parkville.
The heart-stopping last gasp draw against Doncaster the previous week to secure the A’s their first Premier League finals appearance since 2003 was just a memory as the side conceded five field goals, including three in the second half.
Camberwell got the jump on the A’s in the first half, before Chris Coleman fired a drag flick past former Australian goal-keeper George Bazeley to equalise. A successful penalty stroke was converted to give the ‘Wellers a 2-1 lead at half time.
Altona was right in the contest in the first half, and created several scoring opportunities, but was unable to get past Bazeley. Their form turned in the second half however, and the more experienced Camberwell side, who are reigning premiers, came to the fore.
The Blue and Gold Army were out in force, supporting their young heroes, but it was to no avail, and Camberwell progressed through to the Preliminary final against Powerhouse/St Kilda, while Altona’s Season 2014 is all done.
Striker Chris Porter and goal keeper Tom Pinnegar were good for the A’s, as was Canadian international Matthew Guest and captain Steve Campbell. Patrick Phillips, Harry Dolenc and Jake Macvean worked hard all day, while Chris Coleman was prominent in defence making tackles.
“The scoreline doesn’t reflect the progress we have made this year, so it is disappointing. However, that is a building block for a big pre-season with a view to going further in 2015. Aside from two players over thirty, we are a young side with plenty of potential and upside.” Commented Coach Ben Guy after the match.
Altona 1 lost to Camberwell 5
Goal: Chris Coleman