FQPL: Legacy and Rivalry: How Juhntye Moloney will rewrite family history on FQPL pitch

In a riveting tale of family legacy and rivalry, 19-year-old goalkeeper Juhntye Moloney will step onto the pitch on Saturday against his father’s side >>>

After 15 years of playing in the junior ranks, Juhntye Moloney will kit up as goalkeeper for Edge Hill Tigers' premiership men's squad this Saturday when they take in the Leichhardt Lions, the club which Juhntye's father played goalkeeper for many years.

In a riveting tale of family legacy and rivalry, 19-year-old goalkeeper Juhntye Moloney will step onto the pitch on Saturday for just his second Premier League start, ready to write his own chapter. Following in the footsteps of his Leichhardt FC premiership-winning father, Joel Moloney, Juhntye’s journey takes an unexpected turn as he dons the jersey of his father’s rival club. Juhntye will wear the number one for Tigers as his side prepares to clash against the Lions in a battle fuelled not only by intense competition but also with a twist that adds an extra layer of intrigue to this fiercely contested rivalry. The stage is set for a showdown. “It’s the biggest rivalry in the competition,” Juhntye Moloney said. “Huge game at the start of the season, especially coming off a recent loss to them. A game we deserved to win after we were down 3-1 with 15 minutes to go before we brought it back, but eventually lost 3-3 (2-4) on penalties. Bit of redemption this week I hope.”

After 15 years of playing in the junior ranks, Juhntye Moloney will kit up as goalkeeper for Edge Hill Tigers' premiership men's squad this Saturday when they take in the Leichhardt Lions, the club which Juhntye's father played goalkeeper for many years.

Juhntye’s father, Joel Moloney’s journey with Leichhardt FC forms the backdrop of Juhntye’s narrative. Joel came to Cairns when he was 16 and joined Lions in 1985 after the starting goalkeeper broke both his wrists. “Won a Premier League premiership with the club in 1989, and then again in 1996; we had an amazing side (including former Real Madrid midfielder Milan Jankovic),” Joel Moloney said. Joel said his son had always stuck with Edge Hill, starting when he was seven years old; he grew up there and formed strong relationships with his teammates. Following cameos last season, his perseverance paid off when the opportunity to claim the premier goalkeeper spot arose following Kev Ward’s departure to Marlin Coast FC.

Championship winning goal keeper Kev Ward has announced he will play for the Marlin Coast Rangers Football Club in the 2024 FNQPL season, the club where he played his junior soccer and won a championship in 2013. Picture: Brendan Radke

“I wasn’t certain to play this year, but once I found out Ward was leaving. I chased the spot,” Juhntye said. “Coach backed me from the start; once trials were over, he picked me straight away and said it’s my shirt to lose.” Juhntye has had a number of influences on his goalkeeping career, including Premier League specialist Alisson Becker.

With strengths in long-range kicking, accurate throws, and a fearless approach, Juhntye’s potential is evident. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, Juhntye is steadily evolving into a formidable presence between the posts.

After 15 years of playing in the junior ranks, Juhntye Moloney will kit up as goalkeeper for Edge Hill Tigers' premiership men's squad this Saturday when they take in the Leichhardt Lions, the club which Juhntye's father played goalkeeper for many years.

Despite both father and son being Essendon and Liverpool fans off the pitch, they couldn’t be any different in the clubs they chose on the pitch. Joel Moloney said despite the allegiances lying on opposite sides, he sees reflections of himself in his son’s game. “He reminds me of myself in a lot of ways, definitely his kicking, athleticism, and safe, strong hands. His build, anticipation, and movements. Even the way he communicates. He’s only 19, so he’s still developing physically and mentally, but he’s getting great coaching and is working on his weaknesses while maintaining his strengths.” Leichhardt FC’s opening fixture was cancelled due to poor weather, while Tigers had a 10-goal thriller to kick off the season. Kick off 7pm, Saturday at Tiger Park.

Originally published as FQPL: Legacy and Rivalry: How Juhntye Moloney will rewrite family history on FQPL pitch