Match Report: Buderim v Noosa Lions 13 August and Noosa v Beerwah 16 August
The Noosa Lions Men’s and Under 23s teams have finished the regular season on a high, with both sides recording back-to-back victories and setting themselves up strongly for finals football.
The Under 23s claimed their third consecutive Minor Premiership, while the Men secured second place on the ladder.
For the Under 23s, the week began with a special occasion — the Nathan Weckert Memorial game away at Buderim, which also proved to be a title decider. An early goal from Sunny Law gave Noosa the lead, and with captain Harrison Plumb organising a determined defensive unit, the Lions held firm to record a memorable 1-0 victory.
Back at home on Saturday, the young Lions kept supporters on their toes. Racing to a 3-0 lead against Beerwah, the team looked in full control before the visitors struck twice to create a tense finish. But with five minutes to play, George Loran calmly slotted home to seal a 4-2 win and spark well-deserved celebrations. This group has now delivered three straight Minor Premierships, an achievement that reflects not only the depth of talent in the squad but also the commitment of the many coaches and volunteers who support them. With Plumb leading from the back, they have once again been a joy to watch.
The Men’s side also finished strongly. A 3-1 win away at Buderim in mid-week came courtesy of goals from Matt Thompson, Harry Neal and a Nick Cookman penalty, with young goalkeeper Jack Roberts making his debut. Despite the setback of an unfortunate own goal, Roberts impressed between the posts.
On Saturday night, Roberts was called upon again in the final home match against Beerwah, with further first-grade debuts for Noah Dowling and Hughie Law as the coaches made changes with finals in mind. Noosa took a first-half lead through Jack Williams, who latched onto a long ball from Ariel Batista. The introduction of Thompson after the break lifted the tempo, and soon the goals began to flow. Max Adey fired in after a strong run, centre-half Isaac Metherell smashed home off the crossbar, and Thompson added a trademark curling finish. Beerwah pulled one back late, but the Lions ran out 4-1 winners in front of their home supporters.
The results mean both teams head into finals with confidence and plenty of momentum. The Men’s side face Caloundra in their semi-final, while the Under 23s will look to continue their outstanding run. And the action keeps coming — the Women’s team are at home this Friday night with an 8:30pm kick-off. Good luck to all our Noosa Lions teams as finals football begins!
