Another difficult weekend for the Panthers, with just one win from five matches. On Saturday at home against MA Olympic, both the Premiers and Reserves lost 0–2. On Friday in Townsville, the Ladies beat Rebels 5–1, while the Division 1 Men were hammered 1–12 by Rebels and the Division 2 Men went down 1–4 to Wulguru.
This Saturday is a Big Day. The Premiers and Reserves are at home to Rebels — Reserves kick off at 5.00pm, with the Premiers under lights at 7.00pm. The Mooney Cup will also be played at 4.00pm. On Friday night, both the Ladies and Division 1 Men are at home. The Ladies take on Warriors at 6.30pm and the Division 1 Men play JCU Riverway at 8.30pm. The Division 2 Men travel to Townsville to face Olympic, also at 6.30pm.
Premiers
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers went down 0–2 to MA Olympic in a game where they dominated possession but were undone by two unstoppable long-range strikes. From the outset, the Panthers controlled the tempo, with Olympic sitting deep and allowing them time on the ball. The front three looked dangerous early, with Ryan Taylor nearly opening the scoring — just inches away from converting a superb cross from Matthew Kolb.
Despite Burdekin’s early dominance, it was Olympic who struck first. Their centre-back picked up the ball near halfway, drove to the edge of the box, and rifled a shot into the top corner to make it 1–0 just before halftime.
The second half followed the same pattern: Burdekin pressing forward and creating chances but unable to finish. With ten minutes to go, Olympic landed another moment of magic — firing home a second screamer to put the result beyond reach. A frustrating night for the Panthers, who controlled everything but the scoreboard.
Reserves
The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were again forced into changes with injuries and other absences. Despite the disruptions, the team brought a positive attitude and put in a strong first-half shift. Both sides created chances but struggled with finishing, though Olympic managed a goal from a ball over the top to an unmarked forward.
Halftime brought belief the Panthers could turn things around, but further injuries forced a reshuffle. Even so, the effort remained high. Olympic scored again in the 75th minute to seal the match, leaving Burdekin still searching for a full-strength performance.
Division 1 Men
The Austral Masonry Panthers had a tough night against a powerful Rebels outfit. They managed to hold out for much of the first half and trailed 0–3 at the break, but the floodgates opened after halftime. Rebels ran away with it, finishing 12–1 winners. Burdekin’s sole goal came from a 25-yard screamer by Max Kelly.
Special mention to goalkeeper Zack Durrant, who threw himself into the firing line, saving at least seven shots that looked destined for the back of the net.
Division 2 Men
The C.A. Contracting Funkies had a disastrous outing against Wulguru. Despite facing a side below them on the ladder, the Funkies looked disorganised and flat. Wulguru scored three goals in the first 33 minutes to take a 3–0 lead into halftime.
The second half was better. Luke Cathcart worked hard, and debutant Fengil scored his first goal for the club. The final score was a 1–4 loss — one they’ll want to quickly move on from.
Ladies
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies put in a dominant display on Friday night, defeating Rebels 5–1. The match was tight early, but Burdekin broke through before halftime with a calmly taken penalty from Kayla Steiner.
In the second half, Burdekin took over. Ellyana Mugica bagged a brace in quick succession, before Zandi Bonato and Sienna Lago added one each to make it 5–0. Rebels pulled one back late, but the result was never in doubt.
Juniors
Seven Burdekin junior teams took part in the Bowen Carnival last Sunday — well done to all who travelled and represented the club proudly.
Training has resumed and fixtures restart this Saturday. Under 7s and down will play in Ayr, while Under 8s and up travel to Townsville. Best of luck to all teams.
Preparations for the Burdekin Annual Carnival on Sunday 27 July are in full swing. A working bee will be held this Sunday, 20 July at 9am to mark fields and prepare. All help welcome.
Masters
Another solid turnout on Monday night for the Masters. Marseille surprised PSG with a 5–2 win. Monday nights at 6.30pm — be there.
National and International
The Matildas split their recent friendlies against Panama — losing 0–1 in Bunbury before bouncing back to win 3–2 in Perth.
The Socceroos return to action in September for friendlies against New Zealand — home and away on the 5th and 9th.
The FIFA Club World Cup Final was held Monday morning, with Chelsea beating PSG 3–0.
Quote of the Week
From ex-Leeds and England star — and Ireland manager — Jack Charlton:
“On days like this, you get the distinct impression that someone up there likes you,”
— after Ireland beat England 1–0.
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