SWQ Thunder punish Broadbeach United 5-0 in FQPL 1 semi-final

The SWQ Thunder rained down on Broadbeach United in a thrilling FQPL 1 women’s semi-final on Saturday. Find out how they booked their grand final spot here.

Thunder captain Mel Lloyd celebrates a goal against Broadbeach. Picture: DSL Photography

SWQ Thunder could’ve been forgiven for taking a negative attitude into their FQPL 1 women’s semi-final.

The loss of talismanic striker Abbey Lloyd, who suffered a shoulder injury recently, presented a huge hurdle for the team to overcome.

To make matters worse was the fact Abbey Lloyd had scored seven of the Thunder’s eight goals against their semi-final opposition Broadbeach during the regular season.

The squad however stood tall when it counted – booking their grand final spot with an emphatic 5-0 win.

“Losing Abbey was a big out, there was no denying that,” Thunder captain Mel Lloyd said.

“We were confident though. As a team we knew we had to step up, and that’s exactly what we did.

“Everyone lifted and I’m really proud of how well we played.”

Moving into the front line to replace her injured sister, Mel Lloyd got the Thunder off to the perfect start.

Thunder midfielder Jess Fry fires off a pass. Picture: DSL Photography

With Broadbeach still reeling from Mel’s fourth minute opening goal – Ashlee Parravicini doubled the Thunder’s advantage in the 12th minute.

Mel Lloyd’s second goal shortly before halftime all but sealed victory for the Thunder, but they took nothing for granted.

“The team talk at halftime was very positive, we wanted more goals in the second though,” Mel Lloyd said.

“The plan was always to start the game as quickly as possible, to try to get into their heads and get them off their game.

“We did that, but you can never take anything for granted.

“The fourth goal really sealed it for us.

“It was a great performance from all the girls.

“We wanted to be strong, play to feet as much as possible and control.

“We did all that and got the win.”