United hits top form in opener

GOLD Coast United NPLW Queensland coach Michael Cook says the side’s dominant and professional season opener has to followed up by more improvement.

United enjoyed a perfect start to their season on Friday night, beating Eastern Suburbs 4-1 in Brisbane.

Gold Coast thrived in enemy territory at Heath Park on Friday night, with Mackenzie Akins, Deeanna Thompson and Hollie Jarrett, on debut, all scoring before an Easts own goal rounded out the successful Round 1 fixture.

“We’re very pleased with what can only be best described as a dominant and professional performance,” Cook said.

“Every member of the squad played at a high level, difficult to highlight individuals from a superb team effort.

“It’s a very solid start, but the players will know it’s just the beginning.

“Their focus is on being even better for the next match.

The game marked the return of 24-year-old defender Ellie Fryer who is made her way back from a knee reconstruction. Fryer played just four games last season.

“There were no issues with Ellie,” Cook said.

“Where she is with her

rehab dictated 45 minutes. Her minutes will increase each week.

“That we are managing her correctly so she can be important for us through the whole season is imperative.

“It’s great to see all of the work through preseason was rewarded. I am especially pleased for the new players and how well they all performed.”

United will play their first game at home for the season this Sunday against the Brisbane Roar/QAS.

Gold Coast’s under-18 side also managed to secure all three points on Friday, beating Easts 6-1 in the earlier game where Amy Langworthy netted six by herself.

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