Willacy stands tall to end Roar's title hopes after Reds snag 1-0 win
Adelaide United goalkeeper Sarah Willacy saved a crucial penalty as the Reds finished Brisbane Roar’s title hopes with a 1-0 victory at Marden Sports Complex.
A 13th minute Fanndis Fridriksdóttir header proved the difference as the home side battled hard despite not being in contention for the Westfield W-League finals series.
Brisbane arrived in the City of Churches knowing a win would not only guarantee them a home final but also give them a chance at claiming the Premiership.
They started in exactly the right fashion, putting Adelaide on the back foot as they pressed for an early opener.
It was the hosts however who went in front after 13 minutes through Icelandic international Fridriksdóttir.
The Reds winger was found unmarked at the far post by Emily Hodgson and she calmly placed her header across the face of goal for a shock lead.
The Roar continued their dominance after the interval but struggled to find a way past a Reds defence with nothing but pride to play for.
Fridriksdóttir arguably should have put Adelaide two up but her shot from close range was wide while at the other end Allira Toby was guilty of being off target as well as time ticked by.
Toby was then denied in spectacular fashion by Willacy after her shot from range was tipped away one-handed by the flying Reds custodian.
Willacy then doubled down on her effort minutes later after Toby was brought down inside the penalty area by Amber Brooks.
Brisbane’s Japanese international Yuki Nagasato stepped up but Willacy guessed correctly to ensure her side would end the season on a high.
