THE SCOREBOARD was as bleak as the weather at Coronation Park this afternoon at a North Coast Football senior men’s double-header – yet still there were takeaways of sunshiney promise for the hosts Nambucca Strikers.
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In the earlier 3rd division match, the Strikers were smarting after getting a touch up from Macksville Stingers the previous weekend.
Today, against a skilful Coffs Harbour Lions outfit, the Strikers aimed up and bustled with intent. They had by far the better of the first half, and should have gone to the break with at least two in the shopping cart – but it was nil-all at the stoppage.
On the resumption, Coffs goaled early and the Strikers fragile confidence broke. The visitors added four more, before Nick Hickey launched an exocet to get Nambucca on the board. The final score of 5-1 was no reflection of a match where the Strikers – particularly in the first half – out enthused their opponents and were invariably first to contested possession.
In the main game to follow, much was expected between two high-flying 2nd division sides who had shared the honours when they last met.
But the Strikers with a late rearranged line-up that saw Ryan Flack with the gloves were off their game against Woolgoolga.
Minutes in, an accidental handball at the back in an attempted clearance gifted the Wolves their first from the spot.
The Strikers tried hard to climb back into the game but Woopi were composed and slowly but steadily added to their score to run out comfortable and deserved victors.
However there is little doubt that Nambucca will feature yet again come the finals.
Enjoy the gallery.