Thunder struck down by Roar

Brisbane Roar dominates SWQ Thunder to secure victory

FOOTBALL: It was a thrilling match for fans - but not the result the SWQ Thunder wanted in their home season opener.

Thunder striker Anthony Grant opened the scoring in the 17th minute, sparking a frantic 10 minute period during which five goals were scored.

ON TARGET: Anthony Grant opens the scoring for South West Queensland Thunder in their defeat to the Brisbane Roar at the weekend. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Despite trailing early the visiting Brisbane Roar took a 3-2 lead into half-time before securing a 5-2 win.

"It was an exciting game to watch," Thunder men's team manager Jason Hall said.

"They're certainly the best Roar team we've seen and to be honest they deserved the win.

"I think fitness was a telling factor as well. They've got the benefit of a full national youth competition under their belts.

"The second half was tight but they were running it out hard right until the end."

Heading into their next clash with NPL QLD new-comers Gold Coast Knights, Hall said the focus will be on improving their defensive structures.

Thunder take on Roar

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"We created our fair share of chances in the game," Hall said.

"We opened the scoring and looked good for parts of the game but we did make some mistakes in defence which was costly.

"We will focus on those structures this week.

"Jacob Bigby came on as substitute for us and finished strongly.

"His return will make a difference.

"We're expecting Jacob and Joshua (Choice) to form a good combination at the back.

"Joshua only had the one full training session under his belt before the game so didn't play in the senior men's game.

"He did play a full match for the under-20s earlier in the day though and looked really good."

Originally published as Thunder struck down by Roar