Sport
12 June, 2026
Historic game for Coast
TRINITY-based soccer team Marlin Coast Rangers are just 90 minutes away from making club history this Saturday (13 June), hosting Brisbane’s Logan Lightning in the quarter-finals of the men’s Kappa Queensland Cup.
A victory would see Marlin Coast advance to the national round of 32 of the Australia Cup for the first time in their 80-year history, potentially drawing a professional A-League powerhouse.
The match serves as the ultimate shot at redemption for the Far North’s top side. At the exact same stage of the competition last year, Coast suffered a heartbreaking extra-time loss to NPL side Peninsula Power.
Now, in their milestone 80th year, the club have earned a second chance at creating history.
The high-stakes clash kicks off under lights at 6pm at Pennell Field, Trinity Beach.
Logan Lightning competes in the Football Queensland Premier League 1 (FQPL 1) – just one division below the state’s top NPL tier – setting the stage for an absolute blockbuster.
To celebrate the 80-year milestone and build a roaring home crowd, Coast have announced free entry for all spectators at the home ground.
The team booked their spot in the quarter-final after securing a hard-fought regional final victory against Gladstone’s Clinton FC in the previous round.
Head coach Crios O’Hare said the memory of last year’s narrow exit was driving the team forward.
“We came so close last season and that is certainly part of the motivation for this season to go one step further,” he said.
“We relish any opportunity to play against good opposition and we know it’s going to be a really big challenge.
“To reach the national round of 32 in our club’s 80th year would be an incredible achievement.
“Like in previous years, we need the whole FNQ football community behind us. I’m sure it will be a great atmosphere and hopefully a night to remember.”
The event promises to be a family-friendly evening of football, featuring a full canteen, club bar, live match announcements and junior activities. Fans are heavily encouraged to wear club colours and support Coast on their historic march.
Follow Marlin Coast Rangers FC on Facebook and Instagram for match build-up and live updates.
