This weekend of NPL action saw both academy sides settle for draws as the men drew with the Western Sydney Wanderers 1-1 while the women conceded a late goal in their 1-1 stalemate with SD Raiders.
Western Sydney Wanderers 1 vs. Central Coast Mariners Academy 1 (Katsoulis 8’)
An early Michael Katsoulis goal was not enough for the men’s academy as they put in a hard fought display against a tough Western Sydney Wanderers side.
Both sides came into this game needing a win and it was evident from the start as the teams were able to make some promising chances in the first ten minutes of play. Michael Katsoulis found himself on the scoresheet with a neat finish to put the academy a goal up. The boys weren’t ahead for long as Mohamed Adam equalised for the Wanderers. The academy boys defended well to keep the scores level at the break.
The second half saw the Wanderers create most of the chances however, the solid defence for the Mariners and great goalkeeping by Aidan Munford left the home side frustrated. Alec Vinci was so close for the academy as he saw his shot hit the post in the later stages of the game. The academy boys fought hard and managed to see the game through to the full time whistle.
The men return to Pluim Park next Sunday as they take on St George City at 3pm.
Earlier Results:
U18s: Lost 3-1
U20s: Drew 0-0
SD Raiders 1 vs. Central Coast Mariners Academy Women 1 (Jade Mcatamney 82’)
Dan Barrett’s side were unable to make it six wins in a row on Sunday after a late SD Raiders equaliser meant that the points were shared.
The academy girls settled into the contest the quickest and were able to create a few dangerous opportunities but were not able to make the most of them. Both sides traded blows but both keepers were able to make fantastic saves to keep the game scoreless at the break.
The second half followed in the same pattern as the first with both teams able to create a lot of chances but just could not find the final product. It was late in the second half when the academy girls were awarded a penalty after Iona Snape was fouled in the area. Jade Mcatamney had no troubles in converting from the spot and gave the girls the lead. The lead did not last for long for the women and SD Raiders were quick to equalise through Samantha Muscat. The late equaliser denied the women another victory and shared the spoils come the full time whistle.
The women also return to Pluim Park for a clash against Nepean FC next Sunday.
Earlier Results:
U14s: Won 3-1
U15s: Won 2-1
U17s: Won 2-1
Reserve Grade: Lost 3-2
