Knights Go Down Valiantly in First Game of the Season

It was a fourth-minute goal that haunted the Knights for the rest of the game as they walked home empty handed in the first of two OG Melbourne derbies in 2024.

Starting 11: 2. Ben Carrigan, 4. Corey Sewell, 5. Ivan Franjic (C), 6. Anthony Duzel, 7. Mitch Hore, 8. Steve Whyte, 9. Ciaran Bramwell, 10. Gian Albano, 13. Chris Oldfield (GK), 27. Joseph Franjic, 32. Tommy Semmy

Substitutes: 12. Felipe Sanchez, 15. John Mabok, 18. Jack Morton, 21. Jakeb Wiseman, 23. Tom Woerndl, 29. Saif Eddine Sakhi

Before supporters from both sides were even settled into their seats, new signing Tommy Semmy proved impactful. Bustling out with his signature speed, Semmy sprinted down the right flank of the park with the ball at his feet, taking an early shot on goal for the Knights. It ultimately hit the side of the net, but within his first 30 seconds, Semmy had made himself known.

From there it was a battle between the two clubs for the Original Melbourne Derby.

Much like the first goal conceded in 2023, a South Melbourne throw-in sat up nicely for Hellas skipper and striker, Harrison Sawyer and he was able to capitalise and find the back of the net in the fourth minute. From then onwards, the dynamic shifted, with South Melbourne closing tightly against the Knights.

The following 15 minutes saw the Knights full of energy in fast-paced combat with the home side, trying to break the deadlock in front of a large contingent of travelling and home fans.

As both sides settled in and as the first half minutes advanced, the match became increasingly tight, with South Melbourne producing chances that could’ve seen them go up 2-0 at halftime, but ultimately the Knights’ defence held up, thanks to strong performances from Joey Franjic and new signing Ben Carrigan.

The second half saw the Knights dominate possession, with Gian Albano, Felipe Sanchez and Semmy all lifting and creating chance after chance. Unfortunately, chances were the only thing created.

While the Knights didn’t walk away with any points, the side showed their capabilities despite the loss.

Be sure to check them out at our first home game of the season, this Friday, 16 February at 7:30 pm, as they take on Port Melbourne Sharks Soccer Club.