Knights hold league leaders City to thrilling draw

IN WHAT promised to be an epic local match of football, Leongatha Knights FC Senior Men’s team (currently second on the league ladder) took on ladder leaders and neighbours Korumburra City in Round 9 of the Gippsland Soccer League.

Drawing a big crowd, the first leg of the local derby was off to a strong start with Leongatha consistently pressing the solid structure of Korumburra and leading possession with calm passing.

Korumburra was initially content to allow the home side possession and hold space in defence, limiting Leongatha’s attacking options.

Despite some excellent early attacking runs, the Knights were unable to find the back of the net against Korumburra coach and goalkeeper Zac Grant, whose composure in goals denied the Knights at every shot. Leongatha’s own goalkeeper, long-time Knights Charlie Dougherty performed several spectacular saves over the course of the game to deny Korumburra. However, it was a well-executed corner that skimmed the head of an attacker and found the back post of the goals putting the away team in the lead heading into half time.

The second half of the match saw a different style of play emerged as Korumburra dropped into a low block to protect their advantage, frustrating Leongatha as they sought to find space to attack. It was a magnificent play on the right by Ethan Bath who laid off the ball for forward PJ O’Meara to find the equaliser for the Knights in the 80th minute to the roar of the home crowd.

Despite dominating possession in the second half, the Knights were unable to secure the goal that would put them in the lead as the nail-biting game ended a 1-1 draw. 

Jack Bainbridge makes Knights history as first male player to hit 100 Senior Men’s games
On Sunday June 23, Leongatha Knights FC celebrated a history-making milestone as Jack Bainbridge played his 100th match in the Senior Men’s competition. Debuting in the senior squad back in 2015 when he was only 15, Jack has played for the senior squad every season since. He is a reliable and versatile player who has a magnificent throw and a killer cross.

Surrounded by friends, family and club supporters Jack was congratulated by club co-president Stu McNaughton and coach Beth Milkins and presented with memorabilia to mark his milestone. Never one to seek the spotlight, Bainbridge thanked the crowd and his “second family” at the Knights, counting last year’s history making grand final win as one of his favourite memories.

Congratulations Jack on your wonderful achievement.