Newcastle Jets opened their PS4 National Premier Leagues (NPL) campaign with a 3-2 defeat to defending Champions Lambton Jaffas at Arthur Edden Oval on Saturday.
The junior Jets – bolstered by Hyundai A-League representatives Radovan Pavicevic and Michael Kantarovski who both came on as substitutes – took the lead in the match through Beau McDonald. McDonald fired a cracking shot into the goal after strong work by Charlie Horsley.
Unfortunately for Peter McGuinness’s Jets outfit, there were to be three more goals before the half time whistle sounded, and all three would be scored by the hosts, Lambton.
Alex Palozzi restored parity when he disposed Jets custodian Jez Murray before tapping into an unguarded net, while one-time Jet Peter McPherson gave Jaffas a 2-1 lead with 30 minutes played. McPherson’s goal was a stunning strike from outside the box.
Lambton increased its lead moments before the break when South Korean Myung Lee opened a chance for John Majurovski, who made no mistake.
Newcastle hit back in the second stanza through Kantarovski – who like Pavicevic had travelled direct from Newcastle Airport from Melbourne to participate in the contest. Ben Hay broke down the left side before sliding the ball into the path of the Kantarovski. The 19-year-old midfielder made no mistake with his strike, guiding a classy shot into the top right corner.
Former Newcastle Jets first team stars Jobe Wheelhouse and Michael Bridges both featured in the match for Lambton Jaffas.
In round 2 of the NPL, Newcastle Jets Youth will take on South Cardiff Gunners at Ulinga Oval. Kick-off on Sunday 19 April is at 2:30pm.
