FOOT ON THE PEDAL

ROUND BALL IS BACK

LIFE in Football Gold Coast’s top flight is off to a perfect start for Robina City 2 but coach Paul Rushton knows bigger tests lie in wait.

Stepping up to join Robina 1 in the new 11-team Women’s League, Robina 2 kicked off their campaign with a 4-0 triumph over fellow newcomers Broadbeach 2 yesterday, turning on the afterburners following a goalless first half.

Rushton, who coaches both Robina teams, was cautiously optimistic post-game, with the knowledge last year’s Premier League Reserves grand final winners will face much sterner opposition in the weeks to come.

“(Today) gave us a better indication of how they’re travelling. It was 0-0 at halftime and we obviously scored four in the second half so it’s just about getting that consistency now,” the Football Gold Coast chairman said.

“Once we stuck to the game plan and played good possession football we dominated and hence the four goals. It will be a challenge (this season) but I think the

girls are up for the challenge.

“We’re just not sure how Robina 2 will go against the old Premier League teams. I think they’ll be competitive.

“They’ve just got to continue to build in fitness, momentum and the more tough games the better.”

Rushton’s joy at Robina Common was tempered late yesterday afternoon when 2017 Premier League grand finalists Robina 1 slumped to a 3-0 loss against Broadbeach 1.

The pain was compounded by a possible season-ending knee injury to midfielder Julia Riese, with forward Belair Goodrick (collar bone) also likely to be sidelined.

“I expect Robina 1 to be top four (this season) and Broadbeach 1 will definitely challenge for the overall title. Broadbeach were definitely the better side today.

“I think (the new league) it will help develop women’s football on the Gold Coast by having greater variety and teams from the old regis getting tougher competition.”

Elsewhere, Musgrave flexed their muscle with a 12-1 thumping of Kingscliff and Southport beat Nerang 4-0.

Coomera marked their debut with a 4-1 win at home to Palm Beach on Saturday.

Picture: MIKE BATTERHAM Broadbeach 2’s Kristen Storey (right) has a shot at goal in their 4-0 loss to Robina City 2.