Brisbane Roar’s NPL side went down 3-0 to Moreton Bay United on Sunday evening at A.J. Kelly Park, fueling their determination for a win next week against Redlands United.
Moreton Bay opened the scoring in the 44th minute with a free kick, scored another just before half-time and then went on to secure their victory with a shot from range in the 60th minute.
Roar currently sit ninth on the ladder and will look to improve their positioning in the remaining two games.
Head Coach Owen Baker recognised the difficulties his squad faced but acknowledged the effort they put in to keep the game scoreless until the 44th minute.
“I think in yesterday’s game our boys learnt the brutality of football at NPL men’s level, for 43 minutes we matched it with Moreton Bay, and I couldn’t have been happier with our performance,” Baker said.
“We stuck to the task well and stopped Moreton Bay of gaining any real control of the game and could have had a goal ourselves, but a crazy two minutes before half-time determined the game,” he added.
“It was a tough pill to swallow but I know our lads will learn valuables lessons from this.”
16-year-old George Plusnin made his starting debut as goalkeeper on Sunday, and Baker communicated how pleased he was with his performance.
“George Plusnin made his starting debut in goal at 16 years old, he probably didn’t sleep much last night but I couldn’t be prouder with how brave he was and some of the excellent things he did in the game,” Baker said.
“He will have his fair share of man of match performances in his career because he is a great goalkeeper and we will continue to support him on that journey, last night was a great lesson in that journey.”
The boys in orange take on tenth-placed Redlands United next, looking for points to finish their season on a high note.
KO at 5:30pm at Cleveland Showgrounds. Be there to support your Roar!
