Soccer: Rockingham City claim third win in a row with 2-1 victory over Western Knights

ROCKINGHAM City edged closer to State League Division One top four with a dramatic 2-1 victory over fellow challengers Western Knights at Lark Hill on Saturday.

An early goal from in-form Christian Hogge was cancelled out in the second half by the Knights, before an unstoppable Paul Larvin drive in the dying seconds secured the three points for the home side.

The Knights had only been beaten once in eight games and were favourites to take the win, but it did not seem that way when Rockingham scored in the first minute.

City’s kick off saw the ball played into the corner for Monty Grigo to win possession back before Daniel Macklin setup Hogge with an expert chip.

Hogge lobbed the ball over the rushing keeper to give City the perfect start.

With the wind getting stronger it was only a matter of time before the Knights would create chances.

The visitors seemed determined to play long balls but they were mopped at the back well by Max Snelson who partnered captain Sean Brady.

It was not until Rocky had to change the team around that the Knights mounted a challenge.

Macklin was taken off after a horrific challenge , which seemingly allowed the Knights midfield to get on top with possession and shots from distance were well saved by Kieran Shail.

The second half started with the Knights on top but Shail again was up to the task.

The Knights made changes and they seemed to pay-off with more possession and chances.

With 20 minutes remaining Alex Grayson was given his marching orders for a second yellow card, the extra man giving the Knights a chance to capitalise.

With 10 minutes to go, Rockingham failed to clear numerous times with the third attack proving the charm for the visitors, who finally broke down the stubborn home defence and equalised.

Grigo came close to a winner from a free kick, before Hogge was again found in space and made a run down the right of the pitch.

Larvin ran in front off his marker to get to Hogge’s pass and smashed his volley through the keeper, sending the Rockingham fans into raptures in the 94th minute.

In what turned out to be the last kick of the game, City secured the three points, extending the sides’ winning run to three games.

In the Reserves, Rockingham was held to 1-1 draw despite leading for a majority of the contest.

The Under-18s posted a 10-0 win with Mitch Morrin (5), Sam Warren (2), Robbie Galvin, Callum Ribbans and Lewis Robson all on the score sheet.

Rockingham treks to Canning this Sunday before hosting cellar dwellers Shamrock at Lark Hill the following week.