Palm Beach Sharks continued their undefeated start to their National Premier Leagues season on Saturday evening, accounting for Northern Fury 1-0 at Mallawa Complex.

Troy Ruthven’s 6th minute free kick proved decisive in a tightly contested match that produced plenty of chances for both teams.

Sharks were without captain Justyn McKay but welcomed back former Gold Coast United defender Kristian Rees for the clash.

The hosts demonstrated their intent early and created the first chance after only three minutes when Jonathon Camilleri shot straight at the keeper following a neat cutback.

Ruthven put Sharks ahead shortly after when he curled home a free-kick from just outside the penalty area.

Spurred into action, the Fury midfield found their groove to create several opportunities

Shane Vitakangas did well to save from Kevin Fraser’s headed effort before Braedyn Crowley was denied by the post.

Fury continued to drive forward, with Sharks defenders Rees and Martin Vazquez working hard to shut down several promising raids.

Camilleri spurned a chance to double the advantage late in the half after Nik Mircovic found him in space, however the attacking midfielder’s shot was deflected over the bar by Fury custodian Dylan Hudson.

At the other end, Jake Perry had a chance to equalise after evading Kristian Rees in the box but his effort was denied by Vitakangas.

The second half continued the theme with Sharks getting out of the blocks quickly but an early free kick by Ruthven failed to trouble Hudson.

Rees put the ball in the back of the net but the goal was overturned by referee David Wiebe following an infringement in the build-up.

Immediately after, Fury were again denied by the post from a Jack Gusmeroli strike.

As the second stanza wore on Fury took greater control of the match with Sharks resorting to playing on the counter.

Crowley found himself one-on-one with Vitakangas following a sharp midfield build-up, but his shot faded wide of the target.

Fury procured a number of free kicks late on, but Vitakangas was up to the task on every occasion – including a solid save from a Mathieu Peyre header in the final stages of the match.

The result maintains Sharks unbeaten start to the NPL Queensland season, while Fury remain without a point away from home.

Palm Beach Sharks 1 (Troy RUTHVEN 6’)
Northern Fury 0

 

Image: Palm Beach Sharks