Troubles continue for NQU

GOING down a goal in the first 30 seconds of the game is always tough to come back from, as North Queensland United found out.

The class Brisbane Strikers took the game away early from the Queensland National Premier League debutants yesterday in the state capital.

Strikers’ left mid Michael Lee struck early in what would be the first of two, which helped his side topple NQU 4-1.

But NQU skipper Corey Waples (pictured) was able to take some positives out of the game, as he prepares to lead his side out to a possible FFA Cup double-header this week.

“Even though the result was 4-1, I think it was our best performance this season,” Waples said. “We all stuck together.”

Now on a six-game losing streak, frustration on the field had previously left NQU frayed as their heads dropped.

But Waples said this turned around after his squad backed up for each other right for the full duration of the game.

NQU bagged a consolation goal in the second half, when Darren Walker found himself in the right place at the right time to receive the ball from Matt Miller in the 72nd minute.

The Strikers’ win lifted them to third on the NPL ladder while NQU are one spot above the relegation zone in 12th.

Waples said NQU will now turn its attention to the FFA Cup fixture against MA Olympic.

The NQU v MA Olympic Round 5 FFA Cup game kicks off at Brolga Park 3pm Wednesday.