Navy Blues edge Dragons

Words: Gordon Watson

Monday 10 October 2016

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - The Navy Blues completed their pre-season preparations for the Stirling Sports Premiership after an enthralling 3-2 win away to Canterbury United in Christchurch.

Ryan De Vries opened the scoring after 21 minutes when he expertly chipped the goalkeeper but the hosts were level within six minutes following a goal by new signing Stephen Hoyle.

A goalkeeping error gave the Navy blues the lead just four minutes after the restart when Joao Moreira robbed Tom Batty of the ball to finish into an empty net.

The Navy Blues could see victory within their sights until Canterbury United equalised again this time from the penalty mark.

The referee spotted a handball and Gary Ogilvie finished well to complete the Dragons second comeback of the day.

Both sides enjoyed opportunities to win the match with Andre de Jong forcing Enaut Zubikarai into a good save in the first half.

Moreira then saw an excellent chance late on saved by Batty with eight minutes left to play.

But the former Portugal U-21 international atoned for his profligacy when he scored the winner from the penalty mark in the 84th minute.

The Navy Blues begin their Stirling Sports Premiership campaign at Kiwitea Street when they face Super City derby rivals Waitakere United on Sunday 16 October.

The match kicks off at 3pm.

Canterbury United's first match is with newcomers Tasman United at English Park on Sunday 23 October.

Ends

Match Result