The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 Men’s side travel to the Pluim Park as they look for back-to-back wins for the first time this season following an emphatic 3-0 win over St George FC last Friday.
The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 side will look to create separation at the bottom of the ladder when they face bottom place Central Coast Mariners at Pluim Park on Friday evening.
The Wanderers come into this game following their most clinical performance of the season so far, where two goals inside two minutes in the first half, before adding a goal in added time was enough to take home three points against a formidable St George FC side.
The Mariners suffered a 3-1 defeat to NWS Spirit in a disappointing result that marked their seventh consecutive loss. Michael Paragalli found the net just before half-time, but was later sent off in the 83rd minute while chasing an equaliser. The red card proved costly, as Spirit capitalised with a third and final goal.
The Wanderers will feel the need to build on their newfound form as the swift attacking movement displayed last weekend proved quite effective against a seasoned side.
Alaat Abdul-Rahman broke his goal-scoring drought, with his tireless, high-effort style finally rewarded as he converted Edmun Haddad’s pass into a well-deserved goal.
Richard Nkomo will be aiming to work his way back into the starting eleven following the long-awaited return of Jesse Cameron. His impactful cameo off the bench strengthens his case, but he’ll be eager to build on it when he takes the field this Friday.
The Key Decider: Playing with Confidence
The Wanderers have struggled to build momentum this season, suffering a defeat after each of their two wins. This Friday presents a different challenge — for the first time in a while, they’ll take on a side sitting below them on the table.
Despite the statistics painting an evenly matched picture, the Wanderers will see this as a prime opportunity to stake their claim and build some momentum. Building on last week’s performance could provide the confidence boost needed to complement their already strong work ethic.
The inclusion of Edmun Haddad in the starting eleven has been a bright spot for the Wanderers. The young attacker brings a sense of confidence that’s beginning to rub off on the rest of the team, helping them grow in stature.
If the Wanderers can bring the same energy and intent as seen against St George FC, they will be on their way to victory. Although, writing off the Mariners would be a mistake, as they have been in a similar situation to the Wanderers – a young, inexperienced side overrun and outsmarted by older, more seasoned teams.
Ultimately, this shapes up as a clash between two young sides eager to make their mark in a tough competition. Expect an attacking contest, with both teams likely to come out strong in an effort to gain the upper hand early.
NPL NSW Round 15
Central Coast Mariners FC v Western Sydney Wanderers FC
Friday 16 May 2025, 6:30pm
Pluim Park
