SUNSHINE’S turbulent Vodafone Cup season continued on Sunday with a 2-1 defeat at Oakleigh.
The Georgies hit the lead in the first half but were eventually overrun by the undefeated Cannons.
Sunshine was competitive and had its chances to get a result out of the match, but eventually fell to Oakleigh’s experience and class.
The Cannons could have been in front as early as the first minute when Anthony Pelikan blasted the ball over the bar.
The Georgies battled hard to match it with the star-studded Oakleigh team and went close to opening the scoring when newcomer Vasko Trpcevski’s corner kick caused panic in the Cannons defence, but somehow the ball was scrambled to safety.
It was a fairly even contest in the first half, and when Ivan Filipovic was upended just outside the penalty area Trpcevski’s free kick deceived Stuart Webster to give the visitors the lead after 38 minutes. Within a minute the Georgies fans were in appealing for a penalty for a handled ball, which was denied, and within 35 seconds Oakleigh drew level though a Bill Damianos strike from a poor clearance from the Georgies’ defence.
Sunshine goalkeeper Martin John was in top form and pulled off two magnificent saves to keep the scores level at half-time.
Sunshine gave away two successive free kicks after 51 minutes and were punished from the second when Cameron Pino scored from 25 yards.
The Georgies lifted their game and became more competitive following the goal, forcing the home team on the defensive.
The Cannons were content to play counterattacking football, and when they broke they looked dangerous.
Oakleigh almost sealed the match late in the game, but John once again came to the rescue with another super save. The final whistle saw Oakleigh take all three points, but the Georgies can take heart from their performance.
This Sunday Sunshine is at home to Bulleen, before the Vodafone Cup takes a week off over Easter.
