Our NPL NSW side makes the short trip to face Marconi Stallions, hoping to see a positive performance like last week this time rewarded with points.
The Wanderers recovered from a slow start against leaders APIA Leichhardt FC last weekend to level the game and more than held their own against the benchmark of the competition, though the concession of an unfortunate goal towards the end of the game meant the side had nothing to show for their good showing.
Marcus Younis celebrated the signing of his scholarship deal by scoring the equaliser with a well taken finish, showing why he has been elevated to the senior team, whilst Zac Sapsford was also impressive in his return up front.
The Wanderers will go into the clash against Marconi looking for redemption, after they performed disappointingly against the Stallions in the reverse fixture.
In what was a difficult night, Marconi ran out 4-0 winners, meaning the Wanderers will have plenty of motivation to flip that scoreline on its head.
Whilst Marconi sit third on the table, their form has faltered in recent weeks, putting a dent in their charge for the title; they are winless in their last four games, and drew disappointingly to Sutherland and Manly despite both teams being much lower on the table.
They have been without the exciting Domenic Costanzo in this time, and his potential return may make them a much tougher prospect for the Wanderers.
Despite their recent struggles, they have still had strong performers, with goalkeeper James Hilton being recognised as the NPL NSW goalkeeper of the month, a notable achievement given he started the season in the under 20s side.
With only seven games left in the season and the Wanderers still sitting at the wrong end of the table, they need to start to turn the positive performances into wins, and a trip to an out of form side could offer a great opportunity to do that, especially with a favourable looking draw as the season heads into the final stretch.
NPL NSW Round 23
Marconi Stallions FC vs Western Sydney Wanderers FC
Saturday 15 July 2023, 7pm
Fairfield Showground
