Four markedly different performances elicited a range of views from the senior coaches on Saturday evening at Spencer Park, but all agreed that the National Premier Leagues double headers were a winning concept – even if it takes a little getting used to.

Redlands United and FNQFC Heat faced off in the first of the seniors fixtures and were followed by Brisbane City against Brisbane Strikers. The City and Strikers under-20's squared off in the early afternoon curtain-raiser.

Strikers head coach David Large fondly recalled double-headers from his playing days but admitted he would require a slightly different approach to them now as a coach.

“I’m going to be honest and admit that I’m going to have to stop watching the first game. It drained me,” Large confided

“I was so intent on watching the Heat’s performance that going into the dressing rooms we were probably a little behind schedule. But that was my fault and I’ll have to be wary of that in future.”

Large gets his chance to perfect his double-header preparations this weekend, when the Striker’s Perry Park welcomes Queensland Academy of Sport, Palm Beach Sharks and Olympic FC.

“I think the two games are fantastic for the fans and fantastic for the competition and for us it’s something we’ll have to just get used to. But it really is a win-win for all involved.”

Brisbane City’s Glen Volker echoed the sentiment, “I think it’s a really positive thing for the league. It gives the fans more to talk about and encourages them get out there and have a look.”

“We had Redlands in the change rooms next to us and it’s certainly interesting to see how different teams set-up for the day and go about their preparations.”

“Who knows, they might’ve even seen a thing or two themselves by watching us,” Volker added tongue-in-cheek.

Redlands United head coach Matt Chandler described the experience as “a little funny at first” but after the game was fully supportive.

“I understand the concept and I see the merits in it. It was a little odd playing our home game away but we’ve got a double-header of our own in a couple of weeks and the club as a whole is really looking forward to it.”

FNQ FC interim coach Chris Collins was especially aware of the benefits for regional clubs, “I think for the NPL the double headers are the way to go, especially when regional teams like us come to Brisbane.”

Collins said it provided an opportunity to scout opposition teams in person, which can be problematic for the more isolated clubs.

“Brisbane City’s our opponent next week, so I’ll sit down with (FNQ FC Heat head coach) Martin Docherty in the stands to watch the second game and we’ll pen a few notes.”

Under 20's from the early afternoon curtain-raiser between City and Strikers stayed to watch their clubs’ senior fixture. City U20’s forward Reese Dalton said he and his teammates were delighted with the platform the NPL double-headers offer.

“It gives us a chance to show our stuff on the main pitch and let everyone know what we’re about,” Dalton explained.

He added: “It’s been a pretty good afternoon. We got a win and then stayed on to watch the first team boys play while we have pizza and pasta.”

 

Words/Image: Michael Flynn (Football Queensland)