Words: Nick Crockford, Moreton Bay United
Image: Michelle Maclachlan, Moreton Bay United

Moreton Bay United head south tonight in a bid to regain top spot when they line-up against Redlands United in their previously postponed Round 5 fixture at Cleveland Showgrounds.

Jets' coach Terry Kirkham has welcomed the rescheduled fixture with his high-flying squad, who remain undefeated so far this season, otherwise facing an unwelcome extended break.

The original postponement, a bye and the traditional Easter break would have combined to leave Jets with just one match in the past four weeks.

“This (match) definitely helps,” said Kirkham, who added he was not anticipating making changes to his squad.

“Redlands are a good side. A good ball-playing side, short passing, press high. We’ve done our homework on them.”

Redlands have made a impressive start to the season, with their only defeat at the hands of Harimau Muda ‘A’ in Round 3. They have since recorded impressive away wins over Brisbane Roar NYL and Sunshine Coast Fire.

Jets prepared for tonight’s blockbuster with a friendly hit-out against Harimau Muda ‘A’ on Tuesday night at Wolter Park, but fielded a mostly reserve side against the Malaysians.

The match was all-square until the final 15 minutes when the visitors took advantage of a raft late changes to the Jets' line-up.

However, coach Kirkham was delighted with his squad’s showing: “The boys did really well against a full-blown, professional, international team.

“The Malaysians had a country to select from. We have a corner of our Queensland. The match really showed how far the development of our players has come.

“Twelve months ago I wouldn’t have considered putting them up against a side like that.”

Kirkham's squad will face a further test of their title credentials after the Easter break when they face defending NPL Champions Olympic FC at Wolter Park on April 26.

Jets' will then back that up with a difficult away trip to Townsville against Northern Fury the following weekend.