By Jed Theed
Friday’s match may have been a friendly celebrating 25 years of women’s football at the Gap but it was fierce competition at Walton Bridge Reserve.
There was chances for both teams in the first half but it was the Brisbane Roar who capitalised early with a goal to Abby Lloyd in the seventh minute.
Lloyd was the beneficiary of a great run down the right by Allira Toby but it almost came unstuck as Noran Abaza blocked the first shot.
Unfortunately for the Gap, the ball landed right at Lloyd’s feet for an easy tap in.
After the break Lloyd was again quick to find the back of the net, this time taking advantage of clashing players in the box.
But the Gap responded quickly after receiving a penalty when Roar ‘keeper Mackenzie Arnold came charging off her line collecting a Gap player and teammate Summer O’Brien in the process.
O’Brien received attention on the field before walking off under her own steam.
In her final game for the club, Megan Price stepped up to slot the goal as the Gap went down 2-1.
But the night was not just about the match, it was recognition of the 25 years women have played football at the Gap and the players the club has produced, including Roar coach Mel Andreatta.
The Roar women will start their season away on October 27 against Sydney FC.
Key moments
3’ Chance for Gap – Long shot by Megan Price. She keeps it down but it is straight at ‘keeper for an easy save.
5’ Chance for Roar – A nice cross sets up a header it is floated up in the air. It almost sneaks into the top corner but Noran Abaza gathers.
7’ Goal for Roar – Abbey Lloyd gets on the end of a great run by Allira Toby. Noran Abaza blocks the first shot but it falls right back at Lloyd's feet who taps it in.
13’ Chance for Gap – Megan Price earns a free by the edge of the box. Catherine O’Neill steps up to take it and the Gap almost score but the Roar manages to keep it out.
25’ Chance for Roar – A mistake by Noran Abaza sees her caught well out of position but the Gap defence holds to prevent the Roar their second.
41’ Goal for Roar – Noran Abaza comes out of her goal and slides in hard. Clash of players and the ball comes loose with Lloyd capitalising for her second.
42’ Penalty for Gap – Mackenzie Arnold comes of her goal and cleans up a Gap player and her own defender in Summer O’Brien. O’Brien needs attention but leaves the ground under her own steam.
46’ Goal for Gap – Megan Price steps up to take the penalty in her final game at the Gap and slots it.
54’ Chance for Roar – Mariel Hecher steal the ball and is one-on-one with the Gap ‘keeper. Abaza blocks the ball with her leg and it sails clear.