Young SWQ Thunder strikes up point

SWQ Thunder shows real spirit in season opening draw

THUNDER STRUCK: South West Queensland Thunder midfielder Kimba Kibombo (pictured in action against North Queensland United last season) was standout against the Brisbane Strikers. Picture: Kevin Farmer

FOOTBALL: A young and determined SWQ Thunder side wrote "club history” in their 1-1 draw with Brisbane Strikers at the weekend.

A debut goal to new signing James Egeta in the 53rd minute helped secure a draw for the Thunder - their first points at Perry Park in the club's history.

Man of the match Kimba Kibombo set up the Thunder goal with a clever turn and swift run through the Strikers' defence before playing midfielder Luke Lister into the box with a neat through ball.

Strikers keeper Bon Scott could only parry away Lister's cut back pass with Egeta lashing home a volley to open his NPL account.

The goal came from the kick-off immediately after the home side opened the scoring through their own new signing Andy Pengelly who volleyed home a cross at the back post.

SWQ Thunder men's team manager Jason Hall said the club was delighted to open the season with a point and a positive performance.

"It wasn't the prettiest of games, it was a battle,” he said.

"But it's the first time we've taken points from Perry Park and it's a positive way to start the season before our first home game this weekend.

"Many are tipping Strikers to be one of the top teams this season and we took a point with a very young side minus our marquee signings.”

The result also confirmed something club officials have firmly believed during the pre-season.

"It proved our young guys are up for the fight,” Hall said.

"All of them really dug in.

"There was a real intensity in all of them, they didn't back down, they fought for the whole game.

"Kimba was named man of the match and rightfully so because he was a threat all night.

"But we had a number of players really stand up.

"Callum Hart was strong filling in at centre back. Luke Lister came on at the break and looked good. Keanu Turt and Fletcher McDonald played with intensity. Anthony Grant put in a great shift up front and James (Egeta) grew into the game.

"Thiago (Kosloski) was really happy with the team.”

The Thunder play their first home game of the season this Saturday against newly crowned National Youth champions the Brisbane Roar.

Originally published as Young SWQ Thunder strikes up point