Sport
30 September, 2026
Cutters end up runners-up
THE Innisfail United under-23 ladies team capped off a remarkable season on 19 September, delivering a spirited grand final performance at Stan Williams Park in Cairns before finishing runners-up to a clinical Edge Hill outfit.
Though the 2-0 result wasn’t the fairytale ending they hoped for, the Cutters’ grit, determination and family driven spirit defined a season that will long be remembered.
Arriving early and relaxed, the team settled quickly despite early nerves. Innisfail created several first half chances but could not convert, while Edge Hill capitalised in the 20th minute with a well placed strike just inside the box. Trailing 1-0 at the break, the Cutters regrouped and came out firing.
The second half saw both sides press hard, creating multiple opportunities. Edge Hill doubled their lead in the 54th minute with another sharp finish, but Innisfail refused to fade.
Coach Damian Musumeci praised his side’s resilience.
“Edge Hill were more clinical in front of goal and their defence was extremely difficult to penetrate,” he said.
“I really commend our ladies as they gave it their all and left everything out on the pitch.” He also acknowledged the strong community support.
“It was awesome to see so many Innisfail supporters travel to Cairns to cheer the ladies on.”
Musumeci highlighted goalkeeper Malorie Haworth as his stand-out performer.
“She had an amazing game and kept Innisfail in it with some spectacular saves.”
This season also carried special meaning for the coaching group. Musumeci coached his twin daughters Lauren and Kaitlyn, niece Taylah McLeod and sister Kaila in the same team, a moment he described as unforgettable.
“Fast forward 12 years from when Lauren and Kaitlyn were three, wearing supporters’ shirts and holding homemade signs for their Aunt Kaila in a grand final, to now playing alongside each other. “Family, generations, community and a love of the game that gets passed down is what Innisfail United Football Club is all about.”
Assistant coach Gino Di Carlo also shared the field with his daughter Mia, while Bianca Borg played alongside her daughter Ella, adding to the club’s strong family culture.
“Gino and I have had a memorable season watching all the players develop and we hope to see everyone back next year,” Musumeci said.
The Cutters’ season was outstanding: 17 wins, one draw and two losses, finishing second on 52 points behind Edge Hill on 55.
Looking ahead, the club aims to return the ladies to the premier women’s competition which is the long term goal for Innisfail United.