The Strikers were missing four players and found themselves down 2-0 after only three minutes, however an emphasis on retaining possession and shoring up their defensive line saw the girls dominate the second half and challenge Henwood Park in a 4-0 loss at Rawlings Park. 

The home side struck in the 2^nd, 3^rd and 22^nd minutes but were otherwise well contained by the Strikers until a Henwood Park goal against the run of play set the margin to four goals. 

The margin could have been non-existent had the Strikers capitalised on four tough chances, however defensive pressure and wayward shooting saw the four-goal buffer remain.

Ash Holder was a constant threat, creating chances for her side and covering plenty of ground while Matilda McPherson, Michaella Webb and the ever-improving Taylah Dickinson drew praise from the coaching staff.

Coach Mick Simons said the improved showing emphasised how far the team had progressed since their promotion to the Leonard Cup this season.

“(The result) highlights how far this side has come since the start of the competition,” Simons said.

“The team has grown throughout the season and now we are seeing the benefits of match time week in and week out.”

“Yesterday was similar to the first round against Henwood Park when we were drastically down on troops but overall there’s been a huge improvement from that (first round 10-1) loss.

The Strikers return to O’Connor Park for this weekend’s clash with Wagga United and will enjoy their first full team list if keeper Taya Smith overcomes a knee injury.

Janine Lambert however remains unavailable after suffering ligament damage to her knee against Junee last week.