Auckland FC’s long away trip to Perth ended in defeat with the team going down 1-0 to Perth Glory.
Despite Auckland dominating possession and attempts on goal, Pearman’s edge of the area strike was enough to settle the game in the 29th minute.
Auckland had their chances, with both May and Mata testing the Perth ‘keeper on several occasions but it wasn’t to be.
On the brink of half-time a fine double save from Alex Paulsen kept the score as 1-0. Moments later right back and captain, Hiroki Sakai put his body on the line and took a powerful shot straight to the head. The ref blew up immediately and after receiving treatment Sakai was able to walk off to be replaced by Callan Elliot.
Auckland continued to push in the second half and remained the better side against a determined Perth defence.
In the 93rd minute an Auckland corner resulted in a break by Perth. With Anasmo running through on goal, debutant and late substitute Adama Coulibaly clipped the Perth sticker, bringing him down and earning a straight red card.
Despite the result Auckland will be pleased to put the game and the trip behind them, this is the longest away day in domestic football. The Black Knights now sit third in the A-League ladder, a point of the leaders Melbourne City but with a game in hand.
Conveniently, Melbourne City are the opponents when Auckland return home to fortress Go Media on Saturday, January 18. A win for Auckland in this top of the table clash will allow them to leapfrog City. Tickets for the game, which will again feature the beach, are available here.
