Do or die clash for Quarriers
August 22, 2007
Section: Sport
ILLAWARRA PREMIER LEAGUE
CHRIS HUDSON
KIAMA'S Illawarra Premier League (IPL) future hangs on Saturday's home clash with Coniston after the Quarriers scored a shock 2-1 win over Dapto in round 23.
Although the Lions scored a 3-nil win over relegation-bound Kemblawarra, the Quarriers can move back out of the IPL drop zone with a win in this weekend's clash at the Quarry.
Coniston sit on 21 competition points, with Kiama three adrift on 18. However, a win in round 24 would see Kiama edge ahead on goal difference.
On Saturday, Kiama's leading scorer, James Donlon, put The Quarriers in front as early as the 10th minute.
Livewire forward, Tommy Mayes, was in the thick of the action and caused headaches at the back for Dapto, while Kiama's defence was solid and worked hard to keep their high-flying hosts at bay.
In the second half, Dapto threw caution to the wind to gain the elusive equaliser.
The resolute Kiama defence didn't crack until the 80th minute, allowing Dapto to equalise 1-all.
With the game set for a draw, Brent Farnsworth floated in a freekick that was headed on by man-of-the-match Josh Price to substitute Michael Pitt, who scored the winner.
Youth grade midfielder Pitt grabbed his first senior goal of 2007 only moments after replacing Donlon.
It is hoped that the Kiama community can come out in force to turn The Quarry into a fortress and protect the Quarriers' Premier League status.
Kanahooka Lodge, Dapto, proved a happy hunting ground for Kiama, with the youth grade picking up another valuable point in a 2-2 draw, while the reserves won 2-0, with goals from Tidswell and Cross.
Meanwhile, The Quarriettes were crowned Illawarra Women's soccer division 2 minor premiers after wrapping up wrapping up the regular season with a 3-1 win over Russell Vale.
The team can look forward to the Grand Final Series on home soil.
Amy Regal put in another outstanding performance and scored two of Kiama's goals while midfielder Lucy Beattie scored the third.
It was a tense game, with Kiama playing for the minor premiership and Russel Vale playing for a place in the semi finals.
Both teams played some great football in difficult conditions.
The field was wet following the recent rain but the girls handled it well.