Sport
24 June, 2026
United crushes Leichhardt
A THUNDEROUS 30 metre strike from Liam Crossland set the tone for Innisfail United’s most commanding performance of the season, as the premier men stormed to a 4-0 victory over Leichhardt at Steve Corica Oval on 13 June, a result that keeps their finals hopes alive.
Crossland’s long range screamer gave Innisfail a 1-0 lead at the break, before Harry Corica blew the game open in the second half with two goals in quick succession.
A technically brilliant finish from Jacob Moloney on the siren sealed the emphatic win and secured three crucial premiership points for the home side.
Coach John Cavanah said the result was exactly what the side needed.
“This was a much needed win for us if we are any chance to play finals,” he said.
“Our defence was much improved, along with some excellent finishing from our forwards.”
While the premier men celebrated a strong bounce back performance, Innisfail’s under-23s were unlucky not to share the spoils in their clash with Leichhardt earlier in the day, going down 2-1 despite a spirited performance.
The home side started brightly, looking composed in defence and confident playing out from the back.
Their early pressure paid off when Warren Nabanga found the net to give Innisfail the lead.
Leichhardt equalised late in the first half through an unavoidable corner deflection which saw the scores locked at 1-1 at half time.
The second half remained tightly contested, with both teams creating chances and the result hanging in the balance.
A low driven shot from outside the box eventually gave Leichhardt the one goal win.
Coach Chris Claus said his side deserved more from the match.
“While a draw would have been a fairer reflection of our efforts, we will look to improve for our next game against Marlin Coast,” he said.
“Considering Leichhardt are top of the ladder, we are right there.”