A second-half goal from Zac Sapsford was enough to secure a crucial win for the Red and Black, who are back in the top six after narrowly missing out last season.
The victory capped off an impressive run, as the team has now gone undefeated in their last 11 matches.
Entering the game, the Wanderers knew a draw would guarantee a spot in the finals, but a win was essential if they wanted to finish in the top two or top four. Coach Alen Stajcic made changes to keep the squad sharp, introducing Aydan Hammond into the starting lineup in place of Sapsford. Josh Brillante also returned after injury.
The Wanderers quickly came close to scoring. In the opening minute, Brandon Borrello had an attempt, and shortly after, Nicolas Milanovic tried a bicycle kick that went wide. Milanovic, in great form and a top scorer, was involved in many of the team’s best moments.
He was denied by a strong save from goalkeeper Ryan Scott after connecting with a perfect pass from Borrello. Milanovic then had a header from a corner that went just wide.
Hammond also had a chance, sending a shot over the bar, while Milanovic tried twice more, but both attempts were either saved or narrowly missed.
Although the Wanderers created chances, they struggled to find their rhythm in the final third. Stajcic responded by making changes at halftime, bringing on Sapsford and Jarrod Carluccio.
Once again, Stajcic’s adjustments paid off. Soon after, Borrello had a good chance that went wide, but he played a key role in the Wanderers’ goal. Former Wanderer Thomas Aquilina misdirected a pass across the backline, and Borrello seized the opportunity. He passed it to Sapsford, who calmly finished past Scott with a first-time strike to give the Wanderers the lead.
Milanovic had two more opportunities to extend the lead but was denied by Scott and then sent a header just over the bar from a corner.
As the Jets pushed for an equalizer, the game became more open, and Wanderers goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas was forced into a key save in the 71st minute. Sapsford had another chance for a brace, but Scott denied him. Brillante also tested the Jets keeper, forcing a save from a low shot.
In the final stages, the Wanderers adopted a defensive shape as the Jets put pressure on. The Wanderers’ defense, led by Anthony Pantazopoulos and Alex Bonetig, held firm, thwarting multiple Jets attempts.
A tense moment came in the final seconds when the Jets earned a corner, sending Scott up to join the attack. However, the Wanderers dealt with the danger, securing the win that confirmed their place in the finals.
The team celebrated with fans after the final whistle, with the Red and Black Bloc creating a lively atmosphere on the road. The players and fans now look forward to the final away match of the season against local rivals Macarthur.
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