United v Fire – NPL Qld Rd13 Preview

 

 

 

With United’s Rd12 match against Redlands washed out, this Sunday’s game against the Sunshine Coast Fire marks the Club’s first league outing since the 6th of April.

That break has allowed several players to overcome slight niggles and has given coach Kristian Rees the opportunity to freshen up his squad as we head into the back end of the first round of the 2019 National Premier Leagues Queensland competition.

United is expected to have a near full squad available for selection against the Fire. Midfielder Jason Campbell has overcome a back strain and should play a part after being set to make an appearance last Sunday against Redlands. The break has also helped Justyn McKay overcome his leg problems and should see Michael Thwaite available for selection. In another good sign Curtis Stollery is back training after picking up a knock against Olympic in Rd8. 

 

United player to watch

It’s taken a while for young defender Harry Saunders to find his feet at senior level but after a strong performance against the Magpies in Mackay and backing that up against the Pride the twenty year old has started to show himself as an integral member of the United squad. Harry’s no nonsense, committed approach, coupled with a big motor, adds plenty of starch in the middle of the park.

 

Harry Saunders against Mackay (Langevad Sports Photography)

 

Fire at a glance

After taking out the wooden spoon in 2018 the Fire have already accrued more points in 2019 than last season, showing more grit and endeavour due in part to the efforts of Technical Director Melvyn Wilkes across the club.

The Fire are a predominantly young and energetic outfit with former Gold Coast United keeper, teenager Eligh WIlliams, between the sticks. Eligh is one of several Sunshine Coast based players who have moved back to the Fire after stints with other NPL Clubs. Midfielder Matt Cann is another who once played his football away from the Coast. The former Olympic youth player has been a consistent starter for the Fire this season alongside Williams.

The Fire will be buoyed by a strong showing against the league leaders away from home mid-week. After the Fire led 1-0 at half-time the Power stormed home late to take all 3 points in a 3-1 scoreline that flattered the hosts.

 

Past Encounters

United took the points in the Rd13 match at Station Reserve with Conor Smith scoring a brace in the 3-1 win. The points were shared in Rd26 at the Kawana Sports Precinct with neither side on the score sheet.

 

Match Details

National Premier Leagues Queensland Round 13

Sunshine Coast Fire v Gold Coast United

Sunday, 28 April 2019

Kick-off at 4pm

Kawana Western Precinct

 

How to watch

Can’t make it to Kawana, the match will be live streamed on Football Queensland’s youtube channel.

Set a reminder at this link http://bit.ly/firevgcu