Words: Michael Flynn
Image: Steven Gibson Photography/Brisbane Roar FC

Two goals in the final ten minutes guided Brisbane Roar Youth to a 4-2 win over FNQ Heat at Perry Park on Sunday.

Nicholas D’Agostino netted a first half brace for the hosts but it was late goals to Austin Ludwick and Sam Sibatuara that ultimately sealed the points for Young Roar.

Heat were seeking back-to-back wins for the first time this season and took the lead early courtesy of the club’s leading goal scorer Alex Smith.

However, the host’s reply proved swift when D’Agostino was felled in the area by Heat goalkeeper Kevin Ward only seven minutes later - the Young Roar striker subsequently converting from the penalty spot.

Young Roar took the lead midway through the half when D’Agostino pounced again to steer home the rebound following Ward’s initial save from Shelford Dais’ shot.

Shortly after the restart Heat spurned a golden chance to draw level after Smith won a penalty, however, Crios O’Hare proved unable to beat Young Roar goalkeeper Tomislav Bilic with the ensuing spot kick.

O’Hare made amends only minutes later though, converting an easy finish after Bilic was left stranded well off his goal line.

Heat continued to create chances as they sought to regain their earlier lead, before Young Roar stormed home to steal the points.

Ludwick restored Young Roar’s advantage after tapping home from a pre-rehearsed set piece seven minutes from the end of regulation time.

Before Sibatuara sealed the win in time added on with a composed finish after taking advantage of tired legs in the Heat defence.

Speaking post-match, Young Roar Assistant Coach Joel Smith said he was pleased with the entire team’s performance, but highlighted D’Agostino’s contribution in particular.

“Nick grafted through that game and he put himself about. He combined well with others around him and made runs in behind which is what we asked of him,” he said.

Heat coach Martin Docherty said his side's first-half performance was disappointing

"We didn't work hard enough off the ball and that allowed the Roar boys in behind us quite easily to create chances," he explained.

Listen to the full post-match interviews below.

Brisbane Roar FC Youth  4 (Nicholas D’AGOSTINO 17’p 26’, Austin LUDWICK 83’, Sam SIBATUARA 90+2’)
FNQ FC Heat  2 (Alex SMITH 9’, Crios O’HARE 50’)