Namoi United edges out Norths in first grade

SOCCER returned to Hogan Oval on Saturday with a determined Namoi United side proving too strong for Norths United in Northern Inland Premier League’s first grade competition.

Cody Shepherdson. Photo: Bruce Malcolm

Namoi United hit the net at the 40th minute through a penalty goal by Matthew Urquhart.

The hosts went into the half-time break with a 1-0 lead.

Urquhart added to the tally again at the 70th minute mark, taking the score to 2-0.

Kayce Boyd has some fun on the field during Saturday’s Namoi United home game. Photo: Bruce Malcolm

Namoi United has consolidated itself in the middle of the ladder, now sixth in first grade on 18 points behind.

North Companions (21 points), Oxley Vale Attunga (23 points), Demon Knights (26 points), Inverell (28 points) and ladder leaders Moore Creek (31 points).

Matthew Urquhart booted Namoi United’s two goals in first grade on Saturday. Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

Earlier in the day, the reserve grade team went down in a narrow loss to Norths, 1-2.

Connor Hill levelled the scoreboard at the 74th minute with a penalty goal, taking the total to 1-all.

Norths slotted in a late goal to edge head of Namoi United.

Dean Hamblin heads the ball in Saturday’s first grade clash. Photo: Bruce Malcolm.

Namoi United is eighth on the reserve grade ladder on 11 points. Inverell holds top spot on 29 points.

Namoi United is back on the road this weekend to take on Tamworth.