A strong second half showing from the Marconi Stallions ensured that they emerged 4-0 victors over the Western Sydney Wanderers NPL side.
It was a tough result for the Wanderers to take, especially as they came into the match off an encouraging draw against heavyweight APIA Leichhardt FC.
Coach Andrew Christiansen made multiple changes coming into this clash, with Lawrence Caruso, Edmond Lupancu, Jesse Cameron and Ariath Piol all coming into the side, though they were without talented centre-back Alex Bonetig due to injury.
Their first chance of the match came after six minutes, when captain George Antonis’ curling effort went just over the bar. Marconi would be ruthless in punishing that miss, as just two minutes later they had their opening goal through Marko Jesic.
The Wanderers did their best to hit back; Piol and Jarrod Carluccio had consecutive chances in the 20th minute, though they were unable to beat Marconi custodian Jack Gibson with either attempt. Carluccio had another opportunity in the 41st minute, but his shot from distance went just wide of the goal.
Western Sydney went close again just after the restart, when Zac Sapsford got onto the end of a Piol cross, but he was unable to make a meaningful connection and his shot bounced wide of the goal.
The visitors would then kill the game off with two goals in as many minutes; Jordi Swibel scored with a quality volley from the edge of the area in the 50th minute that went into the top corner, before Kyle Cimenti reacted quickest to tap home a low cross.
Marconi then settled into a solid shape that the Wanderers attempted to break down, as Teng Kuol had a volley attempt in the 86th minute that required a save from Gibson. But Marconi would have the final say in the game, as Domenic Costanzo scored from a free-kick in the 90th minute.
The Wanderers face Sutherland Sharks in the next round at home as they look to bounce back from this defeat.
