Thunder strikes up another win

American import heads winner in last game for South West Queensland Thunder

UNDER PRESSURE: South West Queensland Thunder midfielder Shota Aizawa skips around Sunshine Coast player Harrisson Bowen's tackle in their NPL QLD match at the weekend. Picture: Kevin Farmer

FOOTBALL: Defender Joshua Choice called time on his brief SWQ Thunder career in style at the weekend.

Finding space at the back post, the USA import headed home the only goal of the game in the Thunder's 1-0 win over the visiting Sunshine Coast on Saturday night.

"To go out this way - to get a win and a shut out - is something I take pride in," Choice said.

"My visa ends Monday and there's nothing I can do about that.

"I am thankful for the opportunity the Thunder gave me. I am really appreciative of all they've done and I'll be following their season."

Determined to climb out of the relegation zone, the Thunder started the game strongly with Choice scoring from a corner in the 21st minute.

The Thunder controlled large portions of the game but the Sunshine Coast, eager to build on their 2-0 win over the Wester Pride last week, refused to back down.

The Thunder however were calm and measured in defence.

Thunder take points at home

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Playing as compact unit without the ball the Thunder were able to cut out numerous through balls and shut down the threat the Sunshine Coast's wingers posed out wide.

In just his second game for the club, Paul Mikula produced another solid performance, marshalling the defence alongside Thunder skipper Jacob Bigby.

"We came out last weekend and proved exactly what we're capable of and we wanted to back that up," Choice said.

"And to come out get another win is amazing especially at home. The three points is something we really needed.

"We played a complete 90 minutes and didn't concede a goal for the first time this season.

"We showed a lot of heart and hustle, we know we could've been a little more clinical up front but we never dropped our heads.

"The whole team just kept at and got the win which is something we can take great pride in."

Second half blitz

At home to the Gold Coast the SWQ Thunder women showed plenty of early promise before suffering a heavy loss.

Trailing 1-0 at halftime the Thunder had everything to play for before falling short.

The Gold Coast scored four goals in the second half to record a 5-0 win.

Originally published as Thunder strikes up another win