Southern narrowly lose to Canterbury

Early red card proved decisive, as first-half goal leads to 1-0 loss

Southern United hosted local rivals Canterbury United in a South Island derby. The home side was forced to play most of the match with 10 men after the dismissal of goalkeeper Liam Little mid-way through the first half, leaving youngster Stewart Catto to come on between the sticks as Southern sacrificed the attacking talents of Abdulla Al-Kalisy. It was unfortunate for Southern, as the home team came out with great fervor and spirit and had several big chances to take the lead

Catto made a good fist of his introduction to this level but could do nothing about Canterbury’s winner, Stephen Hoyle giving him no chance when smashing home a cutback shortly before the break. Southern fought valiantly to stay in the game, and had 2-3 big chances to get back into the game. Canterbury could not make full use of their numerical advantage to go further in front but took maximum reward from the game regardless, moving within a point of the play-off spots.

The men will take a two-week Christmas break, and will be back in action on January 6th, as they host Eastern Suburbs.

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