It’s a massive clash in the National Premier Leagues Women’s Queensland this weekend as early season pace-setters Logan Lightning host defending Champions Lions FC in our Game of the Week.
With both sides widely considered amongst the competition’s genuine Premiership contenders, the clash at Lightning’s Cornubia Park home ground could prove to be an early season ‘six-pointer’ in this year’s campaign.
The Lightning currently sit top of the table in NPLW Queensland after making a clean sweep of their opening three fixtures of the season – amassing an astounding and league-best 21 goals in the process.
Key to the returns have been attacking duo Natalia Pinkney and Tiarne Petterwood, who have combined for an impressive 11 goals so far this season.
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However, with Nick Croydon’s side yet to face an opponent currently in the competition’s top five – and the competition still in its early stages – question marks remain on how far the team have advanced from last year’s mid-table finish.
Against Lions, the Lightning will look to influential defender and captain Kristi New, centre half Lauren Spreadborough and goalkeeper Keeley Richards to maintain the shape and discipline in the back line that has already delivered one clean sheet this season.
Their opponents, Lions FC, currently sit fourth in the NPLW Queensland standings, but have arguably had the tougher draw to open their season.
Also undefeated from their opening three matches, their only dropped points came against perennial performers The Gap FC in a thrilling 5-5 draw a fortnight ago.
Coach Rob Askew has plenty of talent to work with this season with Westfield W-League duo Leah Davidson and Winonah Heatley linking with the team from Brisbane Roar.
Also adding flair is Brazilian winger Mariel Hecher, whose long-range bomb stole the show in their draw with The Gap.
Further quality is provided by former Adelaide United attacker Tegan Riding up front and American import Cannon Clough.
They come into the clash on the back of a hard-won 2-1 result over Capalaba FC in the prior round.
The match coincides with rebel Female Football Week, which is being celebrated by seven Member Federations and runs until 15 March.
Feature image courtesy of Logan Lightning and Lions FC
