They’ll huff, they’ll puff and eventually, even if it takes until the 95th minute, they will be let in. Once again Auckland FC left it late to secure the win and return to the top of the A-League, thanks to a goal from Neyder Moreno – his fourth of the season.
After Wednesday night’s drama, Auckland FC headed straight to Sydney from Adelaide for the team’s third game in a week to take on Western Sydney Wanderers.
The game, a ping pong match between both teams, looked certain to be a draw right up until Moreno’s stoppage time heroics.
Auckland certainly deserved it, having dominated play and been the more aggressive, attacking side.
The Black Knights welcomed Hiroki Sakai back into the starting lineup, captaining the side after recovering from his concussion against Perth Glory. Jake Brimmer also returned to the XI, Felipe Gallegos and Callan Elliot started on the bench.
Dressed in all white, Auckland FC lined up in a 4-3-3 formation to match the Wanderers. Guillermo May nearly broke the deadlock just seven minutes in, forcing a strong save from Lawrence Thomas. Moments later, Wanderers threatened through Zac Sapsford, whose low shot was tipped wide by Alex Paulsen. May came close again with a powerful effort reminiscent of his Melbourne City performance but sent the shot just over the bar. The half ended scoreless, with both teams searching for a breakthrough.
The second half began in similar fashion, with Sapsford finding Bozhidar Kraev, only for Auckland’s defence to quickly recover and regain possession. Jesse Randall made way for Neyder Moreno in the 50th minute, and the substitute immediately made his presence known with an acrobatic effort and a free kick opportunity just outside the box.
Alex Paulsen delivered a stellar save to deny a Wanderers effort, while Thomas continued to frustrate Auckland’s attack, saving attempts from May and Rogerson. Sakai’s cross nearly found Moreno, but Thomas was once again up to the task. Felipe Gallegos and Marlee François were introduced for Mata and Rogerson, adding fresh legs to Auckland’s attack.
Paulsen kept Auckland in the game with another great stop, this time denying Pantazopoulos’ powerful strike. Moreno came close to setting up François for a golden chance, but the Wanderers’ defence scrambled back to block the shot. It seemed unthinkable that neither side had found the net.
As ever with this team, it aint over till it’s over, and once again Auckland FC stole the points in the last second, Moreno firing high into the roof of the net from close range. This was Auckland’s 6th goal after the 90th minute.
Auckland FC now take on Macarthur FC at home at Go Media Stadium, on Saturday 01st February, 5pm. Get your tickets now! Once again Auckland FC stealing points in the last second, goal for Neyder Moreno to take the win for Auckland FC and put us top of the table.
