Thunder book place in FQPL grand final with convincing victory
FOOTBALL: The odds were heavily stacked against SWQ Thunder in the build up to the FQPL 1 semifinal showdown.
On the road and in front of a vocal Rochedale Rovers crowd the Thunder could have been forgiven if they started nervously, they however started with vigour.
Thunder keeper Jace Hudson and his defensive line weathered an early storm before the team’s attackers broke the game wide open.
“They (Rovers) started strongly, but we were expecting that really,” Hudson said.
“They had a good crowd behind them and created some early chances.
“I had to make a few saves and we had to defend early.
“We held them out though and then Cormac (McCarthy) and Richard (Hayden) struck.”
McCarthy opened the scoring in the 8th minute – capitalising on a pinpoint through ball from teammate Veco Serugo.
The Thunder striker was bought down by Rovers keeper Tom Carroll and duly converted from the penalty spot.
Hayden scored the Thunder’s second just four minutes – combining brilliantly with McCarthy.
Mirko Crociati’s free kick found Hayden on the edge of the box and his found McCarthy who then passed the ball back to Hayden.
The quick footed attacker then calmly scored from close range to secure a 2-0 win for the Thunder.
“Cormac and Richard were great upfront, Mirko and Jacob (Bigby) were great in defence,” Hudson said.
“Our high press worked really well and our work rate the whole game was fantastic.
“We were up for this game, we really wanted the win.
“After the disappointment of losing last year’s final, the boys really wanted to make sure they got back there to go one better.”