South Hobart too good for Launceston United in decider

South Hobart ended the reign of defending champions Launceston United with victory in today’s Women’s Statewide Cup final.

South Hobart won the Women’s Statewide Cup final over Launceston United. Picture: Linda Higginson

South Hobart claimed the Women’s Statewide Cup and their first piece of silverware with a 2-0 win over Launceston United in Monday’s final at KGV Park.

In a wide open first half both teams had opportunities to score, with defending champions United hitting the woodwork twice early on.

South Hobart then had two great opportunities to break the deadlock within a minute of each other, with Eve Swain firing over the bar and Amy Ollington firing inches wide soon after.

South eventually earned their lead in the 32nd minute whena Lucy Roberts corner found Piston Choi, who rose above the crowd in the box to fire a bullet header into the back of the net.

The first half ended 1-0 to South Hobart, and it was only three minutes into the second half before they doubled their lead.

Women’s Statewide Cup Final. South Hobart vs Launceston United. Lucy Smith, Launceston United. Sophie Westwood, South Hobart. Picture: Linda Higginson

A long ball by South landed in front of Amy Ollington and Launceston United keeper Jazlin Venn came off her line. Ollington found Eve Swain, but her shot was blocked in remarkable fashion by United defender Katherine Hill.

It was all in vain for United though, as the rebounding ball landed at the feet of Maddie Chambers, who fired home to gain a two-goal advantage.

The opportunities became fewer following South’s second goal, with South comfortable to play the ball around and take the speed out of the game that Launceston United so desperately tried to keep alive.

The game could have been well and truly put to bed in the 78th minute when South’s Caitlin Stalker appeared to be brought down in the box, but the referee waved play-on and refused them the penalty opportunity.

Women’s Statewide Cup Final Soccer. South Hobart celebrate after a goal by Pischon Choi. Picture: Linda Higginson

South Hobart managed to keep United at bay as the second half ebbed away, claiming the cup from last year’s holders with the game ending 2-0.

In the Under 17’s Girls Statewide Cup Final earlier in the day, South Hobart defeat Launceston City 3-1 to claim the first of two trophies for the day, with goals from Avara Donovan, Isla O’Connor and Jasmine Williams.