Words: Michael Flynn

Brisbane City opened their BLK Silver Boot pre-season campaign with a 2-0 win over Albany Creek Excelsior at Lions Stadium on Friday night.

First half goals to Samuel Sibatuara and Mat Biggins ultimately proved decisive for City in just their second match of their pre-season program.

The result was secured without John Kosmina on the City benches due to the high-profile coach's media commitments.

Excelsior started energetically and threatened from a pair of early chances before City imposed themselves on the remainder the contest.

Sibatuara opened accounts just after the quarter hour – turning in a composed finish at the back post after being found by Jason Park’s cross.

Further chances to Scot Coulson and Nathan Bird failed to test Excelsior goalkeeper Thomas Sherwood before Biggins pounced immediately prior to the half-hour – opportunistically latching onto a parried save to double the advantage.

Despite the introduction of star striker Antontio Murray at the half City’s attacking impetus flagged in the second stanza.

However, determined defensive shifts from Luca Janesse, Nick Buckley and Kai Smith also offered limited chances for Excelsior – their best opportunity when Sasha Radulovic’s ambitious attempt faded wide of the target midway through the half.

City continue their BLK Silver Boot pre-season campaign next Friday against PlayStation®4 National Premier Leagues rivals Gold Coast City.

BLK Silver Boot - Group C
Friday, January 22
Lions Stadium, Brisbane

Brisbane City FC  2 (Samuel SIBATUARA 16’, Mat BIGGINS 29’)
Albany Creek Excelsior FC  0