McDonald’s NPL Tasmania Round 1
Strikers Begin Title Defence With Home Victory
In the first Feature Match of the Round for 2024, the defending Champion's Devonport opened up their title defence with a comfortable 3-0 win over a youthful Clarence side. Japanse import Riku Ichimura caught the eye with his silky dribbling skills and he also bagged a brace from the spot. For the Zebras Mitch Higgins made some impressive saves in net as they battled away in a commendable performance but the Strikers pressure eventually overwhelmed the young Zebras outfit.
Full Time
Devonport Strikers 3 (B.Denehey 3’ R.Ichimura 73’ 77’)
Clarence Zebras 0
Premature End to Season Opener
The season opener at Windsor Park was unfortunately cut short, with the match abandoned in the first half following a serious injury to Will Fleming and an ensuing long wait for an ambulance. Prior to that, both sides were locked at 1-1 having traded goals from the penalty spot. Both Gedi Krusa and Will Humphrey, playing against sides they used to play for were successful in converting from the spot. The game will now be re-scheduled for a later date as per competition rules.
Match Abandoned
Riverside Olympic 1 (G.Krusa 6’)
Launceston City 1 (W.Humphrey 26’)
Knights Make Powerful Early Statement
The Glenorchy Knights put the league on notice with a dominant showing away to Launceston United. The Knights were simply scintillating in attack, overwhelming and outgunning United's defence whose task only got tougher following Will Spicer's dismissal in the 40th minute. With six different players finding the back of the net the Knights certainly showed they have a wide range of weapons at their disposal and will be tough for any defence this season. Bigger tests await but this was a powerful opening statement.
Full Time
Launceston United 0
Glenorchy Knights 9 (A.Mamic 3’ 44’ J.Glover 20’ S.Cordwell 26’ 70’ J.Redfearn 31’ R.Dillon 49’ T.Walpole 74’)
South Hobart Start With Strong Showing
In a battle between two sides who finished in the top four last season it was South Hobart who claimed the points over the Kingborough Lions in a big Saturday night clash to conclude Round 1. A new look attack featuring new signings Austin Yost and Alex Walter looked potent for Ken Morton's men as they created plenty of scoring chances throughout the 90 minutes. Kobe Kemp offered the Lions some late hope when he cut it back to 2-1, before Austin Yost 'called game' with his stunning strike from range.
Full Time
Kingborough Lions 1 (K.Kemp 62’)
South Hobart 3 (A.Walter 35’, S.Berezansky 38’ A.Yost 72’)
