Belconnen maintain perfect start
Belconnen United FC 1 (Jessie Rasschaert 64’) def. Canberra United Academy 0
By Matt Stramandinoli
Belconnen United maintained their perfect record to begin the season with a 1-0 win over the Canberra United Academy on Saturday at McKellar.
Belconnen came out of the gates strong in the first 10 minutes, with Lauren Keir and Michaela Day looking dominant on the left side of the park.
It took until the 18th minute for a real chance to be had, with the Academy’s Laura Hughes taking a powerful dipping shot just outside of the box that Nat Lacey tipped over the crossbar.
It didn’t take long for the chances to come at the other end, with Sally James forced into a great double save after 24 minutes to keep scores level.
While both sides used the ball well while in possession, neither capitalised on their opportunities in the first 45 as they headed into the break locked goalless.
Belconnen began the second half as they did the first, with dominant ball control and high pressure, forcing the Academy deeper into their own half.
This unrelenting press soon paid off, as a free kick in the 64th minute for Belconnen was given just outside of the box.
The ball was floated into the area, allowing Jessie Rasschaert to jump on the loose ball and give the Blue Devils a 1-0 lead.
The Academy pushed hard in the last 30, providing a late surge in hopes of stealing a point from the league leaders.
However, Belconnen’s defense proved too strong in the closing moments, the final whistle confirmed the 1-0 win for United.
That result leaves them three points clear of Canberra FC ahead of meeting Gungahlin United next weekend, while the Academy will take on Woden-Weston.
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