GSSA 2024: Hat-tricks galore mark a sensational return to the season as Phoenix men pile on pain in opener

Hat-tricks galore marked a triumphant return of the highly anticipated Great Southern Soccer Association 2024 season for both men’s and women’s division one as Phoenix plundered nine goals in the opener. Phoenix came back in style on Saturday with nothing short of a goal-fest in the opening men’s division one round of the year after dispatching a weary Stirling Rangers side. The relentless Phoenix piled on nine goals against the helpless Stirling Rangers to win 9-0, behind a spectacular double hat-trick from Corey Plug. They flew out of the blocks booting five goals in the first half before pounding on four more in the second led by Plug. Phoenix’s Beau Timmer also converted a stunning hat-trick while Jason Bosch and Zachery Mostert scored one each. Rovers made their way on to the winners’ list after cruising to a 3-0 win over Polonia courtesy of a Justin Bieleki triple. In the last men’s game of the round, Caledonians beat Bayswater 4-1 with Nathan Kay converting a brace while Lucas Trichilo and Edward Tikoft booted one each. In the women’s division one, Mt Barker kick-started their campaign tremendously with a 6-2 victory over Polonia on Saturday. After leading two goals to nil at the half, a Libby Morris hat-trick ensured her side walked away heavy victors. Barker’s Ellie Pulls, Melanie Greeney and Time Hurle scored one each, while Lucy McNamee and Mabel Nash were Polonia’s goal scorers. Abby Carter notched a hat-trick for Denmark’s 5-2 victory over a spirited Caledonians outfit. Denmark led 3-0 at the half, but Caledonians made the score slightly more respectable, evening up the second half ledger by matching Denmark’s two goals through Bella Jeffs and Stephanie Grant. In the final game of the round, a clutch Hannah Simpson finish proved the difference between her Rovers and Phoenix in their 1-0 triumph.