The first week of the National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s finals series is done and dusted, with some sensational action across the two matches.
APIA Leichhardt progressed through the Elimination Semi-Final and will head into another do-or-die match next week, while Manly United’s sensational finish saw them take the glory in the Preliminary Semi-Final.
Marconi Stallions FC 0 – APIA Leichhardt FC 1 at Marconi Stadium
In an incredibly intense and fiery game of football, APIA Leichhardt will progress to the Minor Semi-Final after securing a 1-0 victory over a 10-man Marconi at Marconi Stadium on Saturday evening.
Marconi goalkeeper Nenad Vekic was shown red in the 31st minute after an impressive opening period, leaving the hosts down a player for the majority of the match.
APIA Leichhardt found the back of the net just before half time through Jack Armson in what ended up being the lone goal of the match despite plenty of action throughout the full 90 minutes in a bustling Marconi Stadium.
The 10-man Stallions applied plenty of attacking pressure throughout the match and came close several times, but weren’t able to convert, ending their season in a hard-fought battle in front of their home fans.
FULL REPORT: Aganovic brace breaks Blacktown hearts
Manly United FC 2 – Blacktown City FC 1 at Cromer Park
In one of the most enthralling contests of the season, Manly United have booked themselves a showdown with Sydney Olympic in the Major Semi-Final after two last minute Alen Aganovic headers stole victory from Blacktown City after 120 minutes of football at Cromer Park on Sunday afternoon.
The battle went to extra time as both sides failed to get on the scoreboard after 90 minutes, with Blacktown City breaking ahead in the 102nd minute as Mallia Mallia released an exquisite half volley that flew low and hard into the bottom right hand corner.
Manly United’s Alen Aganovic tapped in an equaliser in the 119th minute and it looked as if the game would go to penalties, with Mark Crittenden making a goalkeeper sub for the occasion, but the hosts secured a miraculous winner with one of the final kicks of the game, again through Aganovic, who headed home sensationally.
FULL REPORT: APIA Eliminate Stallions to continue Championship dream
Next Week’s Matches
Premiership winners Sydney Olympic will host Manly United in the Major Semi-Final, with the winner booking a Grand Final place, while Blacktown City will host APIA Leichhardt in the Minor Semi-Final.
