United win in tropics
Jack Gates competing in Townsville, watched by Dean Wernerson. Photo Sharon Woodward
Gold Coast United continued their success in the north with a hard fought 1-0 win over NQ United in Townsville last night.
United’s two wins this season have both come on the road in North Queensland.
Historically a difficult place to visit, the Surfsiders have flown home from both Cairns, and now Townsville, with 3 points in their carry-on luggage.
Last night’s victory not only lifts the spirit amid the squad, and across the Club, but it lifts United to mid table, and eyeing off the early front runners.
Coach Sean Lane can feel the momentum building after a slow start for his side.
“The performance last night was another step in the right direction. North Queensland are a big, physical side and will definitely take a lot of points from teams up there.
“There’s a building momentum within the squad and we are looking forward to the next few games. We have plenty of improvement left in us and on our day we are capable of beating any side in this league.”
Vice-Captain, James Coutts, also feels that the Coast are growing well into their season.
“The lads got a lot of confidence out of last week’s performance and were superb.
We dominated from the first whistle, stayed calm and delivered a very mature performance. I thought to a man everyone was outstanding!”
Testament to the squad’s recent focus on defence the squad recorded its first clean sheet for 2018.
“Not only did we move the ball with quality but we showed the grit and determination required to keep a clean sheet,” Coutts confirmed.
United’s attack too is taking shape with the recent addition of Tasmanian speedster, Jack Gates, and the wily Lochie Reus, creating scoring opportunities.
It was however left to the North Queensland ‘native’, Nick Panetta, to score the game’s solitary goal.
The industrious forward bagged his second goal in as many weeks and is starting to deliver on his enormous talent and potential.
Goal scorer, Nick Panetta, interviewed post match (Nth Qld United facebook)
According to Lane, “Nick Panetta was unplayable in the first half and he took his goal brilliantly in the second half… he had his best game for the club.
“The additions to the squad have added a real competition for places and I can see the lift in intensity and quality at training.”
United will have another opportunity to build on solid recent performances when they welcome the newcomers from Mackay, the Magpie Crusaders, to Robina next Saturday.
National Premier Leagues Queensland – Round Seven
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Brolga Park, Townsville
North Qld United 0
Gold Coast United 1 (Panetta 54’)