Words: Matt Dorman
Additional Reporting: Steve Pitman
Images: Michele Pitman

Hiroki Omori’s first-half strike proved the difference for Brisbane Strikers in a hard-fought 1-0 win over Brisbane City at Perry Park on Saturday night.

Omori netted the decisive goal shortly before half-time to keep the pressure on leaders Gold Coast City.

The visitors started brightly and could have grabbed an early lead but ultimately fell behind when Strikers’ silky fullback drove in the opener.

Zac Speedy and Bon Scott both made important saves to keep it to a lone goal which proved enough for the home side to deny their rivals a top four spot.

Key Moments

4’ – CHANCE FOR CITY – Zac Speedy reacts quickly at the back post to palm Kai Smith’s header out for a corner.

29’ – CHANCE FOR STRIKERS – Fullback Sam Knight crosses for Jeremy Stewart, whose header lands on the roof of City’s net.

38’ – GOAL FOR STRIKERS – Omori gets free in the penalty area and lashes an angled drive past City goalkeeper Bon Scott.

54’ – CHANCE FOR CITY – Speedy makes a fine save to keep Strikers ahead, getting down low to his right to tip away Scott Halliday’s well-struck drive.

56’ – CHANCE FOR STRIKERS – Bon Scott this time stands up, denying Ethan Docherty at close range after the midfielder connected with Greg Cheshire’s low cross.

70’ – CHANCE FOR STRIKERS – Stewart squares for Cheshire, who misses the target from 15 yards.

79’ – CHANCE FOR STRIKERS – Stewart is found by Cheshire at the back post but his effort flies across the face from a tight-angle.

Match Details

PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland – Round 15
Saturday, 24 June
Perry Park, Brisbane

Brisbane Strikers FC 1 (Hiroki OMORI 38’)
Brisbane City FC 0

Referee – Isidro TEROL
Assistant Referee – Noah REYNOLDS
Assistant Referee – Dion BRADLEY