Season over for Calder, Knights

Keiwa Hieda (Jacob Pattison)346097_02

Calder United’s title defence is over in the National Premier League Women’s competition, while Melbourne Knights’ run is over in the NPL.

Having already won two titles this season, Calder was hoping to make it a hat-trick of titles.

Having built into the season late, Calder snuck into the finals in fourth spot and faced the Bulleen Lions in a preliminary final.

Calder scored the opening goal just four minutes in through new Western United signing Keiwa Hieda.

Calder led 1-0 at half time.

The Lions were able to level the scores in the second half, with neither side able to find a winner in regular time.

The match went to extra time, with the Lions finding the winner to win through to the grand final, 2-1.

Meanwhile, the Knights first NPL finals run came to an end on Saturday in a preliminary final match against Avondale.

Playing their second game within a week after a mid week Australia Cup match, the Knights needed a big effort if they were going to knock off Avondale.

Scores were locked at nil-all at half time.

Kristian Trajceski would become the hero for Avondale, scoring in the 71st minute after a turnover from the Knights right on the defensive line.

The Knights weren’t able to find an equaliser with its NPL season coming to an end.

Avondale will play South Melbourne in the grand final.

The Knights season isn’t completely over with the club still alive in the Australia Cup.