Sydney into consecutive Westfield W-League Grand Finals after thrilling win over Roar

Sydney FC will have a shot at redemption after defeating Brisbane Roar 2-1 in their Westfield W-League Semi-Final at Dolphins Stadium on Sunday night.

Goals to Caitlin Foord and Sofia Huerta either side of half-time saw off the home side, ensuring Yuki Nagasato’s injury time strike provided only a consolation in the end.

Any fears this would be an over-cautious affair were quickly dispelled after a nasty head clash between Allira Toby and Alanna Kennedy halted play after only two minutes.

It was the first of many physical challenges as both sides determined to fight for every inch in front of a vocal crowd.

Sydney began to settle in attack and Princess Ibini went close on a couple of occasions, one effort requiring the careful attention of Mackenzie Arnold in goal for the Roar.

Just after the half-hour mark and the Sky Blues had their breakthrough, Foord unleashing a venomous strike after being played through by Danielle Colaprico.

While even on the balance of play, it was the visiting side carving out the most promising chances, Kennedy and Chloe Logarzo both going close.

Then, on 65 minutes, the game truly came alive. A goalmouth scramble in Brisbane’s penalty area ended with a spectacular save by Arnold before the Roar went up the other end with a blistering counter-attack only for Yuki Nagasato to be denied by Aubrey Bledsoe.

The Roar would be left to rue their missed opportunity as Sydney found their second minutes later, Huerta picked out by Kennedy and firing off a shot too powerful to be held by Arnold.

The home side’s chances were effectively ended with 10 minutes to play when Natalie Tathem was given her marching orders after scything down a runaway Ibini.

A strike from Nagasato in injury time kindled hope but Sydney held on to ensure they would host the biggest game of all next week.