In a highly anticipated top-of-the-table showdown, Noosa Lions hosted undefeated league leaders Caloundra in front of a strong home crowd at the Den.
Despite a dominant opening 25 minutes, Noosa ultimately fell to a 4–2 defeat in a match that could well be a preview of Finals football.
With Caloundra having dropped points only once this season — against Noosa earlier in the year — the Lions came out with real intent, pressing high and controlling possession in the early stages.
The tone was set from the opening minutes with Max Adey going close at the back post, followed by a surging overlapping run from right-back Lachie Kusabs whose driven cross was only just blocked.
The pressure kept mounting as Mitch Bridge tried his luck from distance, before Sam Boldy had a golden opportunity in the 12th minute, racing through on goal only to shoot straight at the keeper. Moments later, Olly Blackmore’s free kick drifted just over the bar as Noosa continued to create chances.
A slick passing move from deep in defence led to Oli Williams forcing a fine save from the Caloundra keeper. From the resulting corner, Harry Neal — playing in a new advanced midfield role — rose at the back post to nod Noosa into a well-deserved 1–0 lead.
It wasn’t until the 25th minute that Caloundra found their footing, testing Cameron Boldy with two sharp chances. The Noosa keeper stood firm, but a moment of brilliance from a Caloundra midfielder saw them level the score with a stunning 25-yard strike.
In a frustrating sequence shortly after, Noosa were awarded a free kick, but play was delayed while the referee spoke at length with a Caloundra player. Unfortunately, a lapse in focus saw the Lions lose possession from their own restart, allowing Caloundra to pounce and make it 2–1. Just minutes later, their potent forward line struck again, twisting past defenders and finishing clinically to take a 3–1 lead into half-time.
Noosa came out determined to respond, with Sam Boldy pushing forward down the left. But the game turned in the 52nd minute when Mitch Bridge was judged to have denied a clear scoring chance as the last defender. He was shown a red card — a decision that significantly altered the flow of the game.
Caloundra capitalised on the extra space, gradually taking control of the midfield. Noosa responded with substitutions, bringing off Sam Boldy and Max Adey, but the visitors added a fourth goal shortly after, extending their lead to 4–1.
Despite being down to ten men, Noosa’s spirit never faded. Cameron Boldy was outstanding in goal, making multiple top-class saves to keep the Lions in it. Harry Neal continued to create openings in midfield, and in the final stages, Noosa were rewarded for their resilience, Oli Williams finding the net with a composed finish to make it 4–2.
Noosa pushed for more in the dying minutes but couldn’t close the gap, and Caloundra held on to claim the points and maintain their unbeaten record.
Although disappointed with the result, the Lions can take heart from their aggressive start and periods of dominance against the league leaders. With finals fast approaching, Noosa remain firmly in contention — and a rematch with Caloundra in the Grand Final will be a game not to miss.
Earlier in the Day
An injury affected Noosa Under-23s also faced Caloundra in a tight contest, ultimately going down 3–2, with the home side finishing strongly. In an all-Noosa affair, Noosa U18 Blue team edged Noosa White 2-1 and following the Noosa Blue team’s victory over Buderim on Thursday night the win gives them breathing space at the top of the ladder.
Sponsors Day
Saturday also marked the annual Noosa Lions Club Sponsors Day, where the club thanks and recognises the fantastic support from our community and local businesses. The club would like to thank all sponsors, volunteers and families, who continue to back the Lions across every age group. Our major sponsors are Subway, Inspirations Paint, Colliers, LiveLife Pharmacy, Sweet Story, Flying West Coffee, Chris Clout Design, Office Choice Noosa, Allquip Rentals, Tewantin Noosa RSL and IRC.
Next Match: Noosa Lions vs Maroochydore – Saturday, 27 July
At the Den | U23s 4:00pm | Men’s 6pm
Let’s get behind the boys and finish the regular season strong!
