With the business end of the 2011 QSL season just around the corner, every match becomes a must-win for the Sunshine Coast Fire as the side aims for a third Premiers Plate. The Fire have a chance to regain the competition lead on Sunday when they take on the Capricorn Cougars in Kawana.
The Sunshine Coast are still without a QSL victory at Sunshine Coast Stadium, and will get no better chance than this week’s match against the struggling Cougars.
Winless this season, Capricorn have managed only three draws to go with their 10 losses so far. The Cougars were trounced 6-0 last round against the Far North Queensland Bulls in a game which highlighted their defensive woes. With 60 goals conceded from 13 fixtures so far, Capricorn will have to tighten up against the Fire who average more than three goals per game.
The two teams last met in Round 7, with the Fire running out victors in a 14-1 slaughter at Rockhampton. The Cougars will no doubt be wary of the Fire’s attacking power in the wake of such a resounding defeat.
The Fire produced a perfect response to their indifferent form last week as they powered to a 4-0 away win over the Gold Coast Stars. Gareth Musson and Tyson Holmes helped the Fire to a two goal lead at the break, and both scored again in the second half to cap off a convincing victory.
It was exactly the positive result the Fire needed to get their campaign back on track, after the shock defeat at the hands of the FNQ Bulls a fortnight ago.
Although the Coast’s defensive stocks have taken a hit with the departure of Takanori Sato, the side boasts strength in depth and will not be taking the Cougars lightly. The Fire currently trail the Brisbane Strikers by a single point in the Premiership race, but victory over Capricorn would guarantee the Fire regain the competition lead, as Brisbane have a bye this weekend.
Kick-off for the Round 16 clash is set for 2pm on Sunday, July 10, with the Fire’s Under-19 team to follow at 4pm.
The Under-19s returned to winning ways last weekend against the Gold Coast Stars, finding their form in front of goal to record a 4-2 victory. This weekend they take on the Logan Strikers, who are currently fighting for a place in the finals. With the Fire battling for top spot on the HQSYL ladder, three points against Logan would put the boys in a strong position.
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