A solitary goal in the first half from Olivia Bomford was enough to secure the Olympia Warriors a 1-0 win over the Kingborough Lions. In another tight encounter between the two sides, just as it was in the Summer Cup final, one goal proved enough for Olympia, as they maintained their 100% record.
In a tense, tight encounter, both sides enjoyed a handful of quality opportunities. The goal halfway through the first half was to be the only of the match, as the game evened out during the second half, turning into a tense midfield battle rather than the frequent quick transitions forward on show in the first half.
From kick off, Kingborough brought it to Olympia with their press. The Warriors defence, having not faced anything of the like last season, seemed unsure how to handle the heat. However, it only took a long ball out to be clear of the press and their quick transition plays pestered the Lions defence. Sitting with a deeper defensive line meant the Lions looked well set up to deal with the Warrior’s pace though.
An absolutely thundering attempt by Zoe Horgan nearly gave the Lions an early lead but unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be, as it crashed into the crossbar and stayed out. Up both ends there were half chances via some neat passing and pouncing on loose defensive balls, however it was Bomford who would finally break the deadlock.
The Warriors had given off some warning signs minutes earlier when Chambers effort was denied only by the offside flag. This time Williams was able to lift her head and pick a pass from thirty yards out, finding Bomford in a pocket of space. Bomford shook off the tracking defenders and found a top shelf finish that left Gardner with no chance.
The Lions almost got back on terms but the crossbar denied them once again during the first half, whilst Gardner up the other end turned out some quality saves to keep the score line 1-0 at half time.
Enter the second half, enter a more level affair. The sting of the Warriors attack seemed dampened, with their foot a easing on the pedal. Meanwhile the Lions were denied space for Davis to work in, with two or three players keen on keeping her quiet.
The scoreline seemed destined to be a repeat of the Summer Cup final despite both sides having their opportunities. Midway through the half, a Davis and Cane combination around the penalty area drew a parried save from Farrow and only a last ditch clearances by the Warriors defence saw the ball to safety.
The Warriors nearly doubled the lead when Gardner came well off her line to collect what looked to be a routine ball, only for a challenge from Bianca Parker to win the ball back. A pride of Lions defenders came storming back to get to the goal line and manage to clear it off their line to deny Parker.
There would be no goal in the second half though as it ended 1-0 to the Warriors. This was a match indicative of the early season form from both clubs. The Lions struggled to convert their chances, whilst the Warriors continued their impressive early season run, with yet another win. Grab your popcorn for the next time these two teams meet, it’s going to keep getting better.