Pride Prevails In A2 Derby

Words: Jason Hall, SWQ Thunder
Image: Keith Eigeland, Football Queensland

Western Pride proved too strong for South West Queensland Thunder on Saturday night, coming from a goal down to claim the 'A2 Derby' 4-1 at Clive Berghofer Stadium in Toowoomba.

Lincoln Rule secured a brace from the penalty spot for the visitors, adding to goals from Schon Hansen and Peter Drager for the visitors, while Nathan Knox netted Thunder’s sole strike.

Despite sitting bottom of the table, Thunder took the lead on four minutes when defensive midfielder Knox struck a left-footed volley from 25 yards after Harry Scott’s cross was partially cleared.

Pride replied three minutes later after Jacob Bigby was penalised for a handball – Rule sending Thunder goalkeeper Michael Pike the wrong way from the spot kick.

Thunder came close to regaining the lead before the break when Ben Watt benefitted from a dangerous Knox free-kick, however the centre half couldn’t keep his shot under the bar.

Pride took the lead four minutes after the restart when Hansen gained possession in the Thunder penalty area, skirting defender Nick Berry before slotting past Pike for his first goal of the campaign.

On 57 minutes a well weighted pass from midfield saw Pride striker Drager out-pace Watt and clinically finish to double the visitor’s advantage.

Scott threatened three times in ten minutes as Thunder looked to fight their way back into the contest, however the result was sealed when Rule again converted from the penalty spot with six minutes remaining.

The result marks the second win in three games for Pride and moves the Ipswich club within five points of 11th placed Northern Fury.

Thunder remain at the foot of the league table without a competition point in their debut season.

SWQ Thunder 1 (Nathan KNOX 4')
Western Pride 4 (Lincoln RULE 7'(pen) 84'(pen), Schon HANSEN 49', Peter DRAGER 57')




Comments

Comment Guidelines: The SportsTG Network is made up of players, families and passionate sports followers like you who have a strong opinion about sport. That's great - we want you to have your say and share your thoughts with the world. However, we have a few rules that you must follow to keep it fun for all. Please don't be rude, abusive, swear or vilify others. Apart from some pretty serious sport sanctions, we also can ban you and report you if things get out of hand. So play fair and have fun, and thanks for your contribution.

Download the GameDay App!

Stay up-to-date with your favourite teams and keep an eye on your rivals by accessing the latest match results, fixtures and stats via GameDay App.

GameDay Splash Screen
App Store Google Play