Lionesses’ roar in nine-goal win

THE Coffs United Lionesses kicked off the Anzac weekend in emphatic fashion, defeating last year’s grand finalists Boambee 9–1 on Friday night (24 April) at Forsyth Park in the Women’s Premier League.

Lionesses striker Ally Gadd set the tone early, scoring a hat-trick inside the opening 36 minutes to open the floodgates ahead of a dominant second-half performance.

Gadd’s hat-trick was highlighted by a delightful through ball, with her blistering speed taking her past the last defender before she coolly slotted home past the Boambee goalkeeper.

Just minutes later, Zarli Vandenberg extended the lead to 4–0.

The second half continued in the same vein, with Gadd again at the centre of the action, dribbling through the Boambee defence before cutting the ball back for Vandenberg, who side-footed a precise finish.

Kourtney Morn made it 6–0, before Gadd added another to take the score to 7–0, weaving through the Boambee defence with a mesmerising run and composed finish.

Olivia Purnell was a bright spot for Boambee, scoring a consolation goal in the 75th minute.

Rylee Wilson capped off a commanding performance for the Lionesses, sealing the 9–1 result.

Lionesses coach Nathan Silvy was pleased but wasn’t getting carried away after three rounds of football.

“The result was a great confidence booster for the girls against Boambee, especially considering the number of chances we missed the week before,” he said.

“Ally [Gadd] was outstanding in front of goal, finishing with five.

“Our ball movement, speed, and off-the-ball work were a big improvement, and it was great to see the things we’ve been working on at training come through in the game.”

Meanwhile across town, reigning Premiers Urunga Raiders delivered an equally impressive display, defeating Northern Storm 5–0 at York Street.

By David WIGLEY