B-Liga First Round Summary

The first round of the B-Liga took place under lights at Father McMahon Field on Wednesday night under enormous media and public scrutiny, after a record season break of nearly 4 months.

The Broome Soccer Association scheduled this blockbuster as the first match to draw the crowds back, with last season's champions facing off against last season's runners up. The match didn't disappoint either, with both sides looking competitive. Mike Doyle was productive in the Heroes' engine room, contributing 4 goals, including a scintillating diving header. Jesse Anear was on song for a new-look NDFC side, which was without talisman Jimmy Asimacopolous, who, rumours has it, has retired.

Final Score: Hagan's Heroes 6 - 3 NDFC

Old foes Pearl Coast Pirates and Racing Guantanamo faced off on the other pitch - this match historically had been filled with bad blood and intense rivalry. However, the new-look Pirates have been marshalled well by captain Richard Brunger, and they looked very good on the attack. The Pirates defence was also anchored by the exceptionally solid Ronny Venter, and Guantanamo were frustrated time and time again by the wily South African. Phil Sheridan also put on a footballing lesson, with the Northern Irishman creating havoc in the Guantanamo defence. Guantanamo were by no means out of the match however, and despite the lopsided final scoreline, the Mighty Orange were competitive, launching swift counter attacks via the ever-improving Jon Falconer and new signing Tony Delaney. Guantanamo's injury woes however, have been well-publicised, and it may be a few weeks before we see the best of them.

Final Score: Pearl Coast Pirates 11 - 4 Racing Guantanamo AFC

Next match preview

By The Anonymous Analyst

Broome City vs. NDFC

Odds: Broome City win $1.80, Draw $2.50, NDFC win $5.00

Hagan's Heroes vs. Pearl Coast Pirates

Odds: Hagan's Heroes win $1.50, Draw $1.60, Pearl Coast Pirates win $1.45

There should be a couple of great games on hand this week, with Broome City playing their first match of the season. NDFC were competitive last week, but I can't see them being a match for the tough, no nonsense Broome City squad. The other match however, should be a barnstormer.

I reckon Pearl Coast Pirates are odds-on favourites to re-take the title this season. The inaugural B-Liga champs had a barren year last season, but I think the squad they have assembled this year is second-to-none, and they will be tough to beat. Hagan's Heroes however, are no pushovers. They have some talented players in there, and they will give the Pirates a run for their money. Whatever the score, and whoever wins, I think this could have the potential to be the match of the season.

Until next week.