It was pleasing to get back to what we value most – our defensive structure – in the 1-0 Queensland Cup win over Moreton City last Thursday.
After the last league game, we weren’t happy with how we defended, so there’s been a real focus on that over the past 10 days.
Credit to Karl Dodd, who has been leading the sessions while I’ve been away – he’s done a terrific job getting the boys organised and back into shape.
I thought we started the game really well.
We hit the bar early and controlled the first half.
Deegs’ (Brook) goal came from a strong period of possession and, while there was a bit of a deflection, it was a well-worked move and deserved.
We probably went into the break feeling positive but also a little frustrated we didn’t put the game further out of reach.
Caleb (Butler) had a good chance with a header just before half-time, and on another night, we might have been two or three up.
The second half was a different story.
It became a bit scrappy and played more into Moreton City’s hands.
They made a tactical adjustment that we didn’t handle particularly well, and the last 20 minutes tested us.
But that’s where I was really proud of the group.
We dug in, defended strongly, and showed the resilience we expect.
The final play of the game summed it up, with Josip (Milicevic) making a goal-saving tackle one-on-one before the full-time whistle went straight after.
That’s the sort of commitment we need. It was also great to see Hugo Greer make his first-team debut.
He’s come through our under-18s program and that pathway is something we’re really trying to strengthen this season.
He played 60 minutes at fullback, set up the goal, and grew into the game after a nervous start.
Phinehas (Otto) from the under 18s was also on the bench, and while he didn’t get on, it’s another sign of the young talent coming through our system.
For us as a club, that’s just as important as the result.
Across the park, I thought everyone played their role.
Deegan (Brook) worked hard without the ball and took his goal well, while Josip did a great job when he shifted into centre-half.
Two wins and two clean sheets against Moreton City this season is something we can take confidence from, but cup football is always a bit of a free hit.
It’s about taking each game as it comes and seeing how far you can go.
We’ve got Rochedale next in the Cup, back at home, and we’ll prepare properly for that when the time comes.
Before that, though, it’s a big week in the league.
We’ve got two home games – Gold Coast United last Tuesday and Lions on Friday – and it’s important we build some consistency.
The competition is tight, and results elsewhere have shown anyone can beat anyone.
If we can bring the same defensive discipline and work rate we showed against Moreton City, we’ll give ourselves every chance.
Playing at Carmichael Park is something we enjoy, and we want to make it a tough place for teams to come.
As a player, you’d much rather be in a run of games than on the training track all week, so it’s a good challenge for the group.
Now it’s about backing it up this week.
