The inaugural Football Foundation Cup kicked off the NPL Queensland season for 2019, with competition newcomers Peninsula Power overcoming reigning Premiers Lions FC 2-1 at Lions Stadium.

Prince Tambwe, an Under 16 players with Lions FC and a Football Foundation scholarship holder with the club, was selected to do the coin toss before the match.

With the teams scoreless at half-time, Lions broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute after an Andrew Thompson cross was met by Shaun Carlos at the back post, six yards out.

In the 69th minute, Power pulled one back through Sam Cronin. He then sealed the deal for the Power six minutes from full-time after Power striker Joshua Wooley was brought down by Lions defender Josh Brendell-South and referee Tony Sarai awarded a spot-kick.

“We knew the Lions were going to give it to us, they aren’t the NPL Champions for nothing,” said Power Head Coach Aaron Philp after the match.

“It’s great to get a win and grab those first three points for the season, as well as the Football Foundation Cup.

“Our attention now turns to next week, Easts will be another tough ask, we just want to continue to lay a platform and play at our own standard.”

Lions FC now turn their attention to another big game in Round 2 against a revamped Gold Coast United at Coplick Family Sports Park.

NPL Queensland Round 1 – Football Foundation Cup
Lions FC 1 (Shaun CARLOS 54’)
Peninsula Power 2 (Sam CRONIN 69’, 87’)
Saturday, 2 February 2018
Lions Stadium, Richlands

 

Images: Ian Judd/AQUA [PD]