The Western Sydney Wanderers FNSW League One side secured their fifth win in six matches after a much improved second half performance powered them to a 3-1 victory over Hills United at Blacktown City Sports Centre.
Alex Badolato was the star man, grabbing a goal and an assist, whilst Jordi Swibel impressed off the bench, grabbing his first goal since returning from injury.
On a cold night in Blacktown, both sides struggled to get themselves going in attack, as clear cut chances were few and far between.
Jarrad Carluccio and Mark Natta had half-chances, before Badolato had the best chance of the half, with his shot from the centre of the box forcing Richard Rizzo into a smart save.
Having lost the reverse fixture 7-1, the home side were much improved defensively, and as the game entered the second half, it seemed that there would have to be a touch of fortune to help get the opening goal.
And that’s exactly what happened, as Hills defender Oliver Kovarik diverted an Alex Badolato free-kick beyond his own keeper and put the Wanderers in front.
Just as it looked like the Wanderers would run away with the game, Hills United equalised, as a miscued clearance from Jack Gibson unfortunately found its way into the net in the 62nd minute.
Having made a series of substitutions just before Hills scored, the likes of Swibel, Constable and Jesper Webber began to make their mark on the game, and 10 minutes later the Wanderers were back in front.
A wonderful team goal led to Swibel teeing up Badolato, who unleashed a powerful drive that flew past Rizzo into the roof of the net.
And the game would be sealed just four minutes later, when Webber found space down the right flank, with his cross finding Swibel who dispatched the ball past Rizzo.
Due to results elsewhere, the boys in Red & Black remain third on the table, but they have a massive game at home against second-placed St George City FA next Saturday.
