NPLM Round #1: A Powerful Performance to Start the Campaign

A RESOUNDING 3-0 VICTORY SEES OUR LIONS MEN START THE 2024 CAMPAIGN WITH A MASSIVE VICTORY AT AJ KELLY PARK

Goalkeeping heroics from Cardiff Pond and stunning goals from Matt Ridenton and Pranav Vallabh saw our Lions Men start the season on the front foot.

Visiting long-time rivals Peninsula Power, we hit the ground running at AJ Kelly Park after James Enticknap broke the deadlock in the sixth minute. Arriving late at the back post, Enticknap rifled across goal and into the left side-netting following an initial save against Matt Ridenton’s sliding effort.

Cardiff Pond reacted quickly at his near post, adjusting to prevent a close-range strike from breaching his net. Another decisive save from the right flank helped us stay ahead as the hosts continued to apply the pressure.

Right before the half-hour mark, Peninsula Power were awarded a penalty for a foul in the box. Cardiff Pond was once again our saviour, reading the direction and lunging low to make the pivotal save.

With minutes left in the first half, Matt Ridenton stepped up with the goal of the night (and a goal-of-the-season contender), scoring an Olimpico directly from the corner. His sweeping cross arced over the keeper, curling into the upper right-side netting with elegance.

The second half was even more intense, with both sides trading shots as our defence remained resilient against a determined Peninsula Power side. A stunning goal in the 95th minute flattered us, as we settled the game with a 3-0 victory. Pranav Vallabh, fresh from the bench, burst down the left flank, taking on his man before hooking a dipping strike across goal into the top right corner.