The Wanderers Academy youth teams took on APIA Leichhardt at the Wanderers Centre of Football over the weekend.
U13s coached by Peter Kofinas
4-1 win
The U13s faced a defensively well-organised team that looked to deny space in the midfield for the Wanderers to get on the ball and play their style. APIA did provide some problems throughout the match and despite having many changes to score, the Wanderers did not take advantage of them. It took a change in formation and some great work from the players to score three goals late into game and get the result they deserved.
U14s coached by Rob Bradshaw
7-0 win
The Wanderers prepared with a full 14s squad this week knowing the task at hand would be difficult against a good opponent in APIA who only lost one game previously and conceded just seven goals and scoring 28 in 11 games. In the past these encounters have been tough and required the U14s best efforts to gain a result. The Wanderers were up for it and did not disappoint. From the first whistle to the half time whistle the Wanderers created many excellent chances but failed to convert on some great build up and also counter opportunities.
The Red & Black led 1-0 at the break and looked in control knowing that any lapse in the performance would allow APIA back into the game. The boys found another gear and created just as many chances in the 2nd half although they were more clinical with their finishing scoring six additional goals to take the total to seven.
Overall, each individual did their job on the pitch with great enthusiasm, consistency and purpose, which led to an excellent team performance and result.
U15s coached by Geoff Abrahams
4-1 win
It was a very changed squad from recent weeks but the Wanderers came together well and showed a great understanding of the game plan. Some very fluid football resulted in a number of chances with Alex Badolato and Rhys Youlley each scoring a brace with assists the 2 scorers as well as Edmun Haddad. Excellent performances by every player was a pleasing outcome of this game.
U16s coached by Shaf Sagol
5-4 loss
It was mixed emotions for the U16s as they controlled the game up until the last 20 minutes where they went from being up 3-1 to losing 5-4. Even with a 3-1 lead, the Wanderers had many chances to increase their lead but did not capitalise. Ultimately, the side paid the price with opposition fortunate in their chances to score from long shots and a set piece.
U18s coached by Tom Vidovic
2-0 win
The U18s recorded a comfortable 2-0 win against a difficult APIA side at the Wanderers Centre of Football. The Red & Black scored in both halves though Gianni Di Pizio and George Daniel and were in control most of the match limiting APIA to half chances.
U20s coached by Yianni Tsattalios
6-2 loss against Blacktown City
A disappointing 6-2 loss to Blacktown City was not the way the U20s envisaged ending the regular season. Angelo Kalamvokis scored for the second week in a row which put the Red & Black ahead early in the game but unfortunately they couldn’t go on with the performance. Connor Rose added a consolation goal with some brilliant work on the edge of the area, striking the ball into the top corner. The Wanderers have a chance to redeem themselves this weekend in an elimination Semi Final against the same opponents.
