Kappa Women’s QLD Cup Grand Final

LIONS WOMEN LOSE KAPPA QUEENSLAND CUP AT IMPERIAL CORP STADIUM

Despite a strong response in the second half, our Lions Women were defeated 3-0 against a determined Gold Coast Knights outfit.

It didn’t take long for the FQPL1 & Kappa Pro Series to show their quality. A great switch of play and a composed finish from Harriet Withers saw Gold Coast Knights break the deadlock inside three minutes.

We looked for a response with chances from Alyssa Cox and Meaghan McElligott, but the Knights’ defence held firm and prevented us from creating any real danger.

Emily Clark made a commanding save at her near post before catching the danger on the follow-up. The challenge was doubled in the 23rd minute when Eri Takamura won a physical duel with Tiarna Karambasis before slipping a disguised shot into the bottom left corner with composure.

Tiarna Karambasis made a crucial block to prevent a sharp shot, and our Lions Women ended the half with a two-goal margin to chase.

We started the second with more intent, raising the tempo and elevating the pressure. Tara O’Keeffe created a chance for Meaghan McElligott following a brilliant touch and release, but a reactive keeper smothered the chance.

We defended with far more grit and prevented any clear-cut chances but struggled to penetrate a composed Gold Coast Knights defence. A great cross from Kaho Nakatate sailed high over the head of Alyssa Cox, and several fine passages of play were interrupted before a chance could be fashioned.

On the brink of ninety minutes, the offside flag denied Kaho Nakatate at the back post. Two minutes later, Harriet Withers recovered the ball and buried it in the bottom right corner to seal the silverware.

While it’s always difficult to leave the field in defeat, we couldn’t be prouder of the incredible courage, conviction, and fortitude that our Lions Women have shown throughout this tournament and throughout an incredibly difficult campaign.

We look ahead to our NPL Semi-Final against Eastern Suburbs next weekend.