The game was probably the closest, tightest match I have had the pleasure watching in person and from the outset it looked like it was going to be 0-0. But Pearn managed to smash home a rebound after a save at a penalty corner by Ian Scanlon, which he could do little to stop as he was down and out after making the intial save. Although he was lucky to have escaped after a similar situation where the shooter smashed it wide of the goal after a similar low diving save at a previous corner. Showing his passion for the game, Scanlon threw his glove away at the end of the match and had every right to be disappointed after the performance he put in, having banged the post in frustration after the goal was conceded.
Scanlon has been playing in the premier league for about four years now and is showing signs of maturing as a goalkeeper, still able to pull off athletic saves but settling into the 'clutch' capacity of being able to pull off important saves at crucial times. He made at least 10, with a triple save near the end of the first half, finishing the sequence with a diving clearence with the stick (something you don't see much of in English hockey) along with some reflex saves close in. One of interest was when he went into a barrier and managed to stop a low shot, being unsighted against it. Potton had little to do in comparison but made important stops nonetheless.
Both teams had their reserve goalkeepers benching, which is a sight in itself as national league teams hardly ever bring another goalkeeper to games. Of all things it was snowing (not sure how much snow you get in Australia!), with both second choice goalies huddled up in the cold.
I did bring my camera and its new zoom lens (or whatever it's called!) but had trouble taking photos with the flash and low light of February afternoons.
Blurriest photo in the history of the EHL with Coates wrapped up in a coat!
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