Christian Layland
Byron Bay FC have completed the regular season with a strong win over rivals Richmond Rovers to finish in second place heading into the semi-finals.
The Rams were in the hunt for first place and a second-straight Pointscore Championship but needed South Lismore to drop points against Goonellabah for the trophy to be a possibility.
The match started with lots of promise for Byron with the Rams getting an early lead after a Diego Vazquez free kick beat the wall and swung into the top corner.
Once the goal was scored, Byron took their foot off the pedal, and the rest of the half turned into a cagey affair. The Rams were unable to find the net with Rovers competing well.
After the half-time break, Byron wrestled back full control of the match. This new dominance was rewarded when Vazquez scored his second; doubling the lead with a rocket from outside the box. Oli Stautner sealed the win.
All attention turned to the South Lismore game. South Lismore defeated Goonellebah 2-0 to keep Byron in second position.
Semifinals start next week with Byron Bay taking on local rivals Bangalow. Match details will be published on byronbayfc.com.au when confirmed.
