Broadbeach Claim Title Against The Odds

The odds weren't in favour of Broadbeach heading into the Premier League finals but the Dolphins finished the job on Saturday when they beat Palm Beach 5-1 in the grand final at Tony Cecco Field.

Last year's grand final heartbreak against Southport added fuel to Broadbeach's fire as they came from fourth spot on the ladder to knock off Southport, Burleigh, minor premiers Merrimac and Palm Beach within a month to take home the premiership.

Coach Lee Vernon said he knew his side had it in them.

“It was always going to be the case,” he said.

“We've had a full-strength team back now for the past month and we've shown what we are capable of.

“We've beaten four quality teams in a row to win it from fourth spot and the lads were outstanding, followed the game plan to the letter and did everything they were asked.”

Nori Uchimura got the ball rolling for United early in the first half before Palm Beach striker Matt Hilton struck back with a goal of his own.

That was as close it would get for Palm Beach, who were reduced to 10 men after a red card 20 minutes in.

The second-best side all season was completely outclassed by Broadbeach's forwards, with Russell Miner scoring the first of his two goals before a stunning header from star striker Croyden Wheeler had the score at 3-1 going into halftime.

Broadbeach squandered a penalty opportunity midway through the second half thanks to a terrific save from the Palm Beach goalkeeper.

Miner kicked Broadbeach's fourth before Steve Broadfoot booted the fifth late in the match.

Palm Beach coach Danny Nield commended his players for their season but admitted the loss was hard to swallow.

“It was tough,” he said. “We didn't defend proper from set pieces and I wasn't happy with the first two goals but Broadbeach obviously deserved it in the end.

“You can't win a final with 10 men, especially against a side like Broadbeach.”

Ben Case, Gold Coast Bulletin
10 September 2012

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