Official Match Report

Northern Fury welcomed Gold Coast team, the Palm Beach Sharks to the Townsville Sports Reserve for the clubs third home game for 2013.

Northern Fury jumped out of the blocks and was quickly rewarded (2 minutes in) with a goal from a corner, from the head of Captain Jared Stanley.

Northern Fury kept applying pressure throughout the first half and was rewarded at the 37 minute mark when mid fielder Alex read got onto the end of an excellent right cross from Caleb Hobson and was able to chip over the Palm Beach goalkeeper and find the back of the net.

Northern Fury 2 – Palm Beach Sharks Nil.

Palm Beach had several opportunities to get a score on the board, Their best opportunity came late into the half when striker Matt Hilton had an open header from 7 metres out and pushed the ball wide of the left goal upright.

Northern Fury went into half time with a 2 goals to nil lead.

The second half was a game of opportunities for both teams. Both sides had numerous chances, until, Palm Beach were awarded a penalty for handball at the 63 minute mark when Northern Fury midfielder Alex Read was struck on the arm. Palm Beaches, Lucas Cirms confidently drove the ball past Fury goalkeeper, Brad Burrows. 2 – 1 in favour of Northern Fury.

At the 72nd minute, defender David King brought down a Palm Beach player in the penalty box. The subsequent penalty was again converted by Lucas Cirms. Scores were level at 2 each.

Both sides had several chances in the last 20 minutes, with the best chances falling to Fury players Reyze Kelly and substitute Ari Isman. Both unfortunately failed to find the net. Plam Beach had a number of opportunites, but like the Fury were unable to capitalise.

Palm Beach were down to 10 men with 5 minutes to go, due to a red card, however were able to hold on until the final whistle.

Final Score –Northern Fury 2 – Pam Beach Sharks 2