Olympic Down Strikers In Silver Boot
Words: Michael Flynn
Olympic FC claimed pre-season bragging rights over rivals Brisbane Strikers on Tuesday night, winning 3-0 in their BLK Silver Boot clash at Lions FC Stadium.
Rhys Meredith scored either side of half-time for last year’s PlayStation® 4 NPL Queensland Grand Finalists before Michael Lee rounded out the result with a late strike.
Strikers were well within the contest in the opening half-hour, spurning the chance to take the lead when Chris Maher steered his shot over the crossbar from a Jonti Richter cutback.
Meredith continued his outstanding pre-season form, latching onto a throughball to convert from close range and give Olympic the advantage at the half.
Tim Smits, who’s playing future now seems significantly clearer after lining up for Olympic, set up Meredith’s second goal - chesting the ball to allow his teammate a stunning volleyed finish from the edge of the area.
Strikers stuttered throughout the second stanza and never truly threatened a comeback from the two goal deficit.
In the final minutes a defensive mix-up between goalkeeper Michael Turnbull and Maher provided Lee the opportunity to pounce, steering his shot home from a tight angle to round out the result.
The win all but assures Olympic a Semi-Final berth in the pre-season tournament, while Strikers also remain in the running for the latter stages.
Olympic continue their pre-season preparations against fellow PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland club Moreton Bay United in the Macron Cup at Redcliffe on Saturday.
Strikers will face Brisbane Premier League outfit Logan Lightning in the final group match of the BLK Silver Boot next Tuesday at Lions FC Stadium.
Olympic FC 3 (Rhys MEREDITH 43’ 57’, Michael LEE 89’)
Brisbane Strikers FC 0
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