A dominant APIA Leichhardt have defeated the Wanderers NPL 1 side 6-1 at Lambert Park on Saturday night.
The Wanderers welcomed back Nathan Barrie and Ricky Fransen into the starting line-up in the hopes that they could break a four-game losing streak, but APIA Leichhardt proved too strong and stormed home to collect the three points.
Jordan Segreto opened the scoring in the 6th minute as he squeezed past Jesse Cameron and Julian Cop to curl it past Wanderers goalkeeper Tristan Vidakovic.
Luka Knezevic and Awan Lual linked up nicely to force Oliver Kalac into a save, although it was Presley Ortiz who’s run down the left hand side resulted in a second goal for the home team.
Jack Stewart shortly then added to their lead as he nestled his shot past Vidakovic into the top right of the net.
Nicholas Badolato brought one back with a volley into the bottom corner of the net, but the Wanderers resurgence was short lived as Presley Ortiz headed in APIA’s fourth to take them into halftime with a three goal lead.
Alex Denmead added a fifth following Stewart’s cross that flew across goal to find the APIA Attacker. Joel Bertillisio and Seiya Kambayashi then combined for APIA’s sixth to top off a strong performance.
It was another case where experience prevailed, and lessons were learnt for the young Wanderers against seasoned opposition, although there were some positives as Badolato continued to shine through these tough times as he continues to develop in the heart of midfield.
Awan Lual also stated his case and continued to look dangerous despite limited service.
The Wanderers will look to bounce back against the Marconi Stallions, who have just beaten their fierce rivals, Sydney United in a 2-1 victory at the Sydney United Sports Centre.
A win for the Wanderers could see them lift off the bottom of the ladder, before an exciting Sydney Derby, where they will be sure to leave it all out on the field.
