Alicia Woods netted a brilliant ‘Olimpico’ goal, while Chloe Lincoln made a crucial late penalty stop as Brisbane Roar clinched a home elimination final in the Ninja A-League, triumphing 2-1 against Canberra United at McKellar Park.
Despite facing several challenges, Brisbane managed to secure the win. They began with a promising opportunity for Emma Hawkins, but an injury to their leading scorer, Bente Jansen, forced the Dutch forward off in the 10th minute.
Once Brisbane found their rhythm, their speed and attacking threat became evident, leading to Aimee Medwin scoring her second goal in as many weeks. She expertly controlled and finished after receiving a well-timed pass from Kijah Stephenson in the 20th minute.
Brisbane encountered another setback when Stephenson had to be substituted at half-time due to a concussion, and Canberra returned from the break determined to add pressure.
Lincoln nearly found herself in a predicament at the back as Hawkins pressured her, resulting in an effort from Hawkins that went just wide. Moments later, Sasha Grove struck the crossbar with an intended cross from the right.
The home side earned their equaliser just after the hour mark with a classic finish from Michelle Heyman, who nodded the ball into the net following a brilliant cross from Bethany Gordon.
Heyman’s goal seemed to ignite Brisbane, who quickly reclaimed the lead just six minutes later thanks to Woods’ spectacular effort—a right-footed corner that curled over the head of Sally James and nestled into the far corner.
Following that moment, Lincoln composed herself to maintain Brisbane’s lead, making two outstanding saves against her former Canberra teammates, successfully denying both Sasha Grove and Heyman.
Fresh off her participation in the Matildas’ AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign, Lincoln reserved her very best for the dying moments of the game, pulling off an exceptional penalty save in stoppage time to thwart Mary Stanic-Floody and sealing a momentous victory for the Roar.
Brisbane will make their return to finals football in the Ninja A-League for the first time since 2021, set to host Adelaide United in the elimination round.
As for Canberra, their post-season prospects had already been determined, remaining in third place, which will see them return to McKellar Park to take on Melbourne Victory for a spot in the semi-finals.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
Catch all the excitement from a thrilling clash at McKellar Park as Brisbane Roar secured their place in the Ninja A-League finals with a victory over Canberra United.
Compiled by SportArena.au.
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