Albury-Wodonga Spitfires still yet to find first win after loss to Goulburn

It was a positive start for the visitors, who conceded in the seventh minute from a breakaway, but didn't put their heads down.

A determined Spitfires side attacked the Goulburn circle with more shots on goal than previous games, but no reward, as they went into the main break 1-0 down.

Coach Shayne Newell said the half-time talk was centered around maintaining the pressure, but Goulburn converted a penalty corner in the third quarter which left the Spitfires on the back foot.

The final quarter tested the Spitfires as fatigue and poor decision-making took over.

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A penalty stroke was awarded to Goulburn in the second minute and further field goals were scored in the eighth and ninth minutes to seal a disappointing result on what was expected to be a better day for the Spitfires.

"I voiced the importance of turning up for training to see a consistency of play as we witnessed in the first half," Newell said.

"We have a real opportunity next weekend with a double-header against ANU to win both days.

"We just have to commit, focus and believe in ourselves and each other."

The Spitfires' defence had a number of solid contributors, with Tim Jones named best on ground.

Goalkeeper Patrick Baine made a number of fantastic saves, while consistent work rates were on display from Tony Donnelly, Jeremy Payne and Kurt Beath, who played well in an unfamiliar position on the day.

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