A second-half goal from Yuan Cong saw the Western Sydney Wanderers clinch a narrow 1-0 victory over Wellington Phoenix at Porirua Park, resulting in Melbourne City securing the Ninja A-League Premiership for the third consecutive year.
The home team began brightly on a gloomy day in New Zealand, nearly taking an early lead. Young talent Pia Vlok fired a volley wide of the near post, forcing goalkeeper Sham Khamis to scramble across her goal line.
The Wanderers quickly found their footing, as Japanese forward Ena Harada sent a left-footed shot wide of the far post just five minutes in; however, the momentum shifted largely in Wellington’s favour thereafter.
In the 30th minute, Vlok had a golden opportunity to capitalise on a short backpass from Amy Harrison. After sidestepping the keeper, she missed the open target with her shot, leaving the chance unconverted.
Wanderers manager Geoff Abrahams was compelled to make an early substitution in the second half, replacing defender Poppie Hooks with Alana Cerne after Hooks landed awkwardly in a collision with her own goalkeeper and required a stretcher to exit the field.
Desperate for a spark, Phoenix coach Bev Priestman introduced three new players in the 55th minute, with Macey Fraser among the substitutes. The Phoenix came close to scoring as Makala Woods forced Khamis into a fine save.
Despite Wellington controlling possession, it was the Wanderers who broke the deadlock in the 78th minute. Substitute Yuan Cong evaded the offside trap and deftly lifted the ball over goalkeeper Victoria Esson after her initial attempt—a volley from the Chinese international—was saved.
As the home side rallied for an equaliser, the Wanderers successfully maintained their slim lead, securing a vital win in their final match of the season. This result moved them off the bottom of the ladder, with just one game left to play.
While already guaranteed a place in the top four, Wellington Phoenix missed the opportunity to clinch a top-two finish in the Ninja A-League, and they must now aim to achieve that in the final round of fixtures next weekend.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT THEY SAID
Phoenix captain Mackenzie Barry was in tears as she spoke to Sky Sport following the final whistle.
Compiled by SportArena.au.
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