A Dream Start to the Season
It was exactly how Adam Griffiths and his First-Grade side wanted to start their 2022 NPL season. Defeating Sydney Olympic FC 1-0 on Saturday night at Belmore Sports Ground, Manly United walked away with the three points and proving to any doubters that they are here to win.
The first half saw an even battle between to the two sides with a few early chances from both teams.
The 35th minute saw Kristian Santich go down, unfortunately ruling him out of the rest of his official debut for Manly United.
A corner from Sydney Olympic in the 42nd minute nearly broke the stalemate however a header on the line from Kieran Paull cleared the ball keeping the score 0-0.
Sydney Olympic were given another chance quickly after with a free kick as a result of a Manly United handball. However, Manly United managed to defend their line and clear the ball after a scramble in the box.
As half time quickly approached Manly secured the lead with Matt Sim putting his name on the scoreboard in his first match back in the Manly colours.
A quick succession of short sharp clean passes from Bruno Mendes to Dejan Pandurevic to Tom Fay’s feet who put the ball through for Sim who chipped the keeper scoring what would be the deciding goal right on half time.
The second half would not be an easy 45 minutes for the Manly United side with Sydney Olympic returning to the pitch looking to even the score.
Although pressuring the Manly United defence Sydney Olympic could not capitalise off their two early corners and sent a shot high and wide of the goal.
Panderurevic nearly furthered Manly United’s lead with on target shot from a free kick, however Sydney Olympic’s goalkeeper, Nicholas Sorras, managed to keep the game at 1-0 by bumping the ball over the crossbar.
A corner to Sydney Olympic in stoppage time nearly saw the equaliser however luckily for Manly United the header flashed just wide.
As the full-time whistle blew Manly United walked away with three points and a strong start to their 2022 season.