Western Sydney Wanderers closed out their campaign on a high, defeating Wellington Phoenix 1-0 at Porirua Park courtesy of a second-half winner from Yuan Cong.
In challenging conditions in New Zealand, it was the home side who started on the front foot, with Pia Vlok going close early as she fired a volley narrowly wide, forcing Sham Khamis to scramble across her goal.
The Wanderers settled into the contest soon after, with Ena Harada creating their first opportunity, sending a left-footed effort just past the far post inside the opening five minutes.
Wellington continued to apply pressure throughout the first half and came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 30th minute. A misplaced backpass presented Vlok with a golden chance, but after rounding Khamis, she dragged her shot wide with the goal at her mercy.
The second half brought an early setback for the Wanderers, with Poppie Hooks forced from the field following a heavy collision, replaced by Alana Cerne.
Despite Wellington enjoying the majority of possession and territory, the Wanderers remained composed and resilient, with Khamis called into action to deny Makala Woods with a sharp save midway through the half.
The decisive moment came in the 78th minute. Substitute Yuan Cong made an immediate impact, timing her run perfectly to beat the offside trap before reacting quickest to lift the ball over the goalkeeper after her initial volley had been saved.
Wellington pushed for a late equaliser, but the Wanderers defence stood firm to secure a hard-fought clean sheet and all three points.
The result sees the Wanderers finish their season with a positive performance on the road, rewarding their persistence with a deserved victory.
