Underground FC have warmed up for the Major League in style, defeating the Elim Saints 2-0 to finish the first half of the season unbeaten.
A brace to Andrew Dunn - his fourth and fifth goals of the season - ensured Underground ended with 32 points - 15 points clear of their opponents, who finished mid-table - and destined for second tier football in the latter half of the NZCFA season.
The Super League premiers continued their consistent run of form despite the absences of some key players. As a result, those who were given an opportunity to press their case did just that, with some serious attacking threats coming from Joseph Cottle - whose superb cross gave Dunn his second goal - while Joel Greatbach also had a shot blocked.
Just as pleasing for the hosts was the side's first clean sheet of the season en route to a four win, two draw record from six games.
Underground's engine room, their ever-consistent presence in midfield, was again at the fore of a convincing victory against a side who hadn't conceded more than a goal per game and three in total this season.
As has been the case throughout the season, the first goal came from some superb buildup. Dunn replicated his equaliser against Alegria three weeks ago by weaving through the backline before drilling a low shot past the opposing keeper to ensure his side went ahead 20 minutes into the first half.
Elim weren't without their own opportunities, however, with only some desperate defence from captain Ryan Hodgson - that resulted in a collision with goalkeeper Andy Speir - saving the Rusties' blushes.
They held onto a 1-0 lead at the end of the first half and their confidence certainly continued to grow in the second. Several opportunities beckoned but for the Saints shotstopper and some desperate defence to intervene at vital moments.
There was only so much pressure that the Saints could bear, however, before Underground eventually secured victory. A pinpoint cross from Cottle on the right wing saw Dunn nod home from a few metres out, his second goal of the match putting his side firmly in control of the match.
Underground never looked back and wrapped up a convincing performance with their first clean sheet of the season. Andrew Dunn received a man of the match award from Elim Saints and the referee gave his man of the match to Andy Speir, who is set to defend his title of the competition's best goalkeeper.
Underground FC: 2
Goals: Dunn 20', 65'
Elim Saints: 0
HT: 1-0.
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