Caloundra Strikes Back in Football Queensland Premier League 2 After Moreton City Setback

In a dramatic round 3 clash of the Football Queensland Premier League 2, Caloundra delivered an emphatic 5-2 win over Pine Hills at Meridan Plains, Queensland, on Sunday, March 15, 2026. This impressive victory marked a clear response following their earlier 3-1 loss to Moreton City Excelsior, underscoring their resilience and ambition early in the campaign.

Caloundra’s captain Kaine Frew expressed cautious optimism after the game: "Two wins from three games. I think we'll probably be in the top four now. Not a bad start. It's still very early days. Yeah, you can't get too ahead of yourselves. I think you've just got to take it week by week for the moment." His remarks highlighted the team's focus despite a promising start.

The match was a rollercoaster of goals, beginning with Riley Campbell opening the scoring for Caloundra in just the second minute. Pine Hills were quick to respond, with Aaron Doherty equalizing two minutes later, followed by Alex Witte putting Pine Hills ahead in the 11th minute. Caloundra fought back fiercely as Darryl Barton leveled the score in the 13th minute and then gave Caloundra the lead with a second goal in the 27th minute. By halftime, Caloundra led 3-2.

In the second half, Caloundra extended their dominance with Jake Debbage scoring soon after the break. While Pine Hills managed a late goal by Mackenar Bradfield in the 90th minute, it was not enough to stop Caloundra securing the win. The 5-2 final scoreline reflected Caloundra’s attacking resolve and ability to capitalize on key moments.

Pine Hills assistant coach Daniel Cunha recognized his team's shortcomings, quoting, "It was a pretty even game, first half. We conceded three goals. Lazy goals, in our opinion. But we managed to bounce back with two goals. Managed to stay in the game, but yeah, second half with early, conceded early goals, so that was it for us."

This win ensures Caloundra carry momentum into their upcoming clash with Mitchellton, while Pine Hills will travel to Samford, both eager to improve their standings in the competitive league.

Looking back, Caloundra’s earlier encounter with Moreton City Excelsior on March 7, 2026, had ended in disappointment with a 3-1 loss at Wolter Park, Albany Creek. Moreton City’s Brayden O’Regan was pivotal, netting twice, while Caloundra found the net late through Maxx Demerutis. Caloundra player Ethan Galbraith acknowledged the toughness of that opponent, saying, "I think they're a pretty tough team. We'll be up against it next week but looking forward to the challenge. They've got a lot of good players in there. [They're a] very good team."

Caloundra's ability to bounce back so strongly after this setback demonstrates the team’s fighting spirit and adaptability, making them a side to watch in the 2026 FQPL2 season.