The Wanderers continued their strong run in the NPL NSW Women’s competition, stretching their unbeaten run to eight matches with a 3-2 victory over Manly United at Wanderers Football Park.
Having developed a reputation this season for their ability to create chances and control matches through positiveattacking football, the Red and Black again looked intent on imposing themselves early, forcing Manly United to spend long periods defending inside their own half.
That early pressure quickly translated onto the scoreboard, with the Wanderers rewarded for their bright opening through Savannah Murray, whose contribution helped settle the side and reinforce the momentum they had built in the openingstages. The home side continued to move the ball with purpose, finding space through midfield and using their wide players effectively to stretch Manly’s defensive shape.
Alyssa McKenzie then doubled the advantage before the break, capping off a first half where the Wanderers largely dictated the tempo and looked dangerous whenever they advanced into the final third.
Their ability to win second balls and sustain attacking phases prevented Manly from establishing any real rhythm, allowing the Wanderers to take a deserved two-goal lead into half-time.
The positive momentum carried into the second half, with the Wanderers continuing to push forward rather than protecting their lead. That intent was rewarded again when Mya Callil reacted sharply inside the area and struck a volleythat took a deflection on its way beyond the goalkeeper, extending the advantage and placing the home side in a commanding position.
With a three-goal cushion, the Wanderers appeared in full control, but Manly United gradually found a way back into thecontest as the match entered its final stages. Ruby Jackson’s goal in the 71st minute gave the visitors renewed belief, shifting the tempo and forcing the Wanderers to defend with greater urgency.
That pressure increased when Ellie Kerr drove forward and created another opening, with Brinley Gentle converting to reduce the margin further and set up a tense finish.
Despite the late momentum swing, the Wanderers remained composed when it mattered most, limiting further clear opportunities and managing the closing stages well to secure another important three points and preserve their unbeaten momentum.
