RAA NPLSA Round Two Wrap

Cumberland United made it two wins from two to start the 2021 NPL season, grabbing a crucial 3-2 away win against MetroStars on Friday night.

The visitors were looking to back up their convincing 3-0 victory over Olympic in the opening round, while MetroStars were searching for their first win after a 1-1 draw at Adelaide Comets.

It was Cumberland who drew first blood through Sam Carmichael, who looped a backwards header from Joshua Harvey’s long throw-in over the outstretched arm of MetroStars keeper Jackson O’Donnell and into the net in the 27th minute.

MetroStars broke through for the equaliser on the stroke of half-time though, as a tantalising low cross from Matthew Dawber was met by Joshua Mori and deftly flicked across goal into the far corner.

Last weekend’s hat-trick hero Thomas Briscoe struck shortly after the break with an early goal of the season contender, his incredible curling strike from outside the box near the byline beating the keeper and taking the score to 2-1.

Jumar Oakley sealed the contest on 80 minutes with a powerful shot in at the near post and despite Christian Esposito’s well-finished effort making it 2-3 with three minutes to play, Cumberland hung on for the win.

Comets bounced back from their opening round draw with a resounding 4-1 triumph over Adelaide Croatia Raiders and South Adelaide maintained their 100% start thanks to a 3-1 away victory over Olympic.

Sturt Lions held reigning champions Campbelltown City to a 1-1 draw, while Adelaide City and Croydon Kings ground out 1-0 wins over Adelaide Blue Eagles and Adelaide United respectively.