NORTH Coast Football teams kicked off round one of the Premier Youth League with two wins, two draws and a loss against Newcastle powerhouse Edgeworth Eagles on Saturday at the Coffs Coast Synthetics.

The under 16s set the tone with a stellar performance, spearheaded by a stunning goal by Harry Creaser from Bowraville.

Creaser’s deftly executed shot, guided with precision using the outside of his boot, propelled North Coast to an early 1-0 lead.

Despite Edgeworth’s spirited fightback, including a close call as they struck the crossbar from a penalty kick, North Coast maintained their composure.

Revan Dalaf sealed the deal with a confident penalty strike, securing a commanding 3-0 victory for the under 16s.

In the under 18s clash, Edgeworth Eagles seized an early advantage, edging ahead 1-0.

However, North Coast’s resilience came to the fore, as Loki Marchant capitalised on a set-piece opportunity.

With impeccable timing and a composed finish at the back post, Marchant levelled the scoreline to 1-1.

North Coast rattled the crossbar as they pursued to win the game which ultimately concluded in a hard-fought 1-1 draw.

North Coast triumphed 3-1 in the under 13s and drew 1-1 in the 15s in a well-contested stalemate.

However, Edgeworth Eagles asserted dominance in the under 14s encounter, securing a 5-0 victory.

North Coast head coach Greg Brown was pleased with the performances considering the disrupted pre-season.

“It’s a promising start but, to be honest we are a little under-cooked and will get better as the season progresses,” he said.

“All three of our preseason fixtures were cancelled due to hot weather and a waterlogged pitch.

“The players are starting to find their combinations and will have more penetration in the final third as the season progresses.

“On Saturday we travel to Newcastle to face the Weston Bears.

“That will be a really good test and we are looking forward to playing the best teams in Newcastle.”

By David WIGLEY