The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL Women’s side strengthened their position near the top of the NPL NSW Women’s ladder with a composed 2-0 victory over Sydney Olympic at The Crest on Sunday evening.
The Wanderers produced another mature performance, controlling possession for large periods and limiting Olympic’s opportunities as they secured another valuable three points.
The Red and Black looked dangerous from the outset, with Miriam Zumaya heavily involved in the attacking third during the opening exchanges. The Wanderers enjoyed the majority of the ball early and continued to probe for an opening, withAlvina Khoshaba, Talia Younis and Allyssa Ng Saad all combining well in attacking areas.
Their pressure was rewarded midway through the first half when Khoshaba delivered a superb ball into the penalty area and found Zumaya, who struck first time to give the Wanderers a deserved lead.
The goal capped off a bright opening period from Zumaya, who was a constant threat throughout the contest. Theattacker turned wing-back for this game nearly doubled her tally later in the half when a powerful effort from distance crashed against the crossbar as the Wanderers continued to dictate proceedings.
Despite their dominance in possession, chances remained at a premium against an organised Sydney Olympic outfit. The Wanderers, however, remained patient and disciplined, taking a narrow advantage into the break.
They wasted little time extending their lead after halftime.
Zumaya once again played a decisive role, producing an excellent ball across goal which found Ng Saad, who made no mistake to score her goal and double the Wanderers’ advantage.
The second goal allowed the Wanderers to take complete control of the contest. Their ability to retain possession frustrated Olympic throughout the second half, while the defensive unit remained organised whenever called upon.
Annabella Keep was influential at both ends of the field, helping initiate attacks from deep while also ensuring theWanderers remained solid defensively. Khoshaba continued to provide energy down the flanks, while Younis consistently found dangerous pockets of space as the visitors searched for a third goal.
The result moves the Wanderers three points off the top of the NPL NSW Women’s competition and continued an impressive run of form as they remain firmly in the Premiership race heading into the crucial final stages of the season.
