THREE North Coast Premier League sides booked their place in the fourth round of the Australia Cup on Saturday 22 February, with Boambee leading the charge in emphatic fashion defeating Majos FC at Rushforth Park in Grafton.

Brad Clancy wasted no time making his mark, latching onto a free-kick and rifling the ball into the bottom corner to give Boambee an early lead.

Teen sensation Max Cooper made the transition from junior football to the senior ranks look effortless, doubling the advantage with a dazzling display of skill.

Clancy wasn’t done yet.

Ten minutes before the break, the attacking ace struck again, ensuring Boambee went into halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.

The second half was a breathless, end-to-end contest, both sides pushing to add to the scoreboard.

But Boambee’s first-half dominance proved decisive, as they saw out the match to seal a statement victory.

Boambee player/coach Lachie Moye was pleased with the start to the 2025 campaign.

“It’s good to be playing some competitive matches months before the season gets underway, seeing where we’re at tactically and fitness wise,” he said.

“This season Boambee has a similar look to last year; many younger players and club veterans.

“Inclusions involve two former NCF PYL players who are great to have on board.

“Saturday was a well earned win, from front to back every player worked hard in a deserving win.

“Up 3-0 in the first half was some weight off the shoulders, and credit to Majos FC who never threw in the towel; as well as their goalkeeper who made some great saves.

“We should have put away a lot more of our scoring chances, this is something we must work on going forward.”

The reward? A mouthwatering Round 4 road trip north to face reigning Far North Coast champions Bangalow.

“Next week will be a challenge against reigning Far North Coast champions, Bangalow, a challenge we relish,” Moye said.

Meanwhile, Westlawn Tigers defeated East Armidale United 3-0 and Northern Storm squeezed past Inverell winning 3-1 on penalties after the match was deadlocked at 1-1 after full-time.

Northern Storm secured another home tie in round 4 whereas Westlawn will be on the road.

Yamba went down 6-1 to Byron Bay and Urunga got knocked out by Armidale Westside on penalties.

By David WIGLEY