The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 side return to Wanderers Football Park on Saturday afternoon looking to build on last weekend’s momentum as they host UNSW FC in a crucial clash for their finals ambitions.
The Red & Black produced one of their most complete performances of the season last weekend, defeating NWS Spirit 4-0 at Christie Park. An own goal just before half-time opened the scoring before Oscar Morrison, Joshua Cetinic and Awan Lual all found the net after the break in a clinical display that kept the Wanderers firmly in the hunt for a top-six finish.
Their opponents arrive after a difficult afternoon against league leaders APIIA Leichhardt, suffering a 4-1 defeat at Lambert Park. Rory Jordan struck inside the opening minute before Presley Ortiz continued his outstanding campaign with a hat-trick. Corby Fowler pulled a goal back late for UNSW, but the students were unable to halt APIA’s march to the top of the table.
With just five rounds remaining, every point carries enormous significance. The Wanderers know another victory could further strengthen their push towards finals football, while UNSW will be desperate to bounce back and climb away from the congested middle of the ladder.
Awan Lual will once again be the Wanderers’ biggest attacking threat after taking his tally to 18 league goals last weekend, while the Red & Black defence will be aiming to back up another disciplined display after keeping a clean sheet against one of the competition’s strongest attacking sides.
The Key Decider: The Midfield Battle
The battle in midfield could prove decisive. The Wanderers were outstanding in winning the ball back and transitioning quickly against NWS Spirit, creating numerous chances through their high press. If they can disrupt UNSW’s build-up in similar fashion and provide quality service to Awan Lual in the final third, the Red & Black will give themselves every chance of securing back-to-back victories at a crucial stage of the season
NPL NSW Round 26
Western Sydney Wanderers FC v UNSW FC
Saturday 1st August
3:00pm
Wanderers Football Park
