A tetchy, gritty game that felt like it had the potential to test Auckland was successfully passed on a cold and wet night in Melbourne.
A Logan Rogerson header in the 66th minute was the difference on an away trip like few others. Auckland’s first-ever taste of finals football, and a game that had some real jeopardy following Auckland’s march to the Premier Plate.
The first half was evenly contested, with both sides clearly up for the game. Auckland is edging it with the best chances and an imperious back four that makes defending look easy.
With Max Mata injured, Jesse Randall started the game up front for the Black Knights. The only change from the team that played Western United two weeks ago.
Randall was the most eye-catching of Auckland’s attackers in the first half. His pace and winding runs are the source of several Auckland chances. Verstraete, too, was excellent. Breaking up play and regularly putting his body on the line.
With Victory making a strong start to the second half, Corica decided it was time to shake things up with the double substitution of Liam Gillion and Neyder Moreno, on for Jesse Randall and Marlee François.
The change revived Auckland, and moments later Rogerson stooped low to head in at the far post after good work and a wonderful cross from de Vries. His eighth assist helped Logan get his ninth goal.
Logan ran to the corner of the ground to celebrate with the 200-or-so loud and proud Auckland fans, their numbers boosted thanks to a sprinkling of Central Coast fans picked up in a pub ahead of the game.
Auckland had the bit between their teeth, pushing and probing for a second, with May having a goal ruled out for offside. They also scored at death, a Neyder Moreno shot coming off both posts.
Corica used all five subs, resting and rotating his team with next week in mind. Smith, Brimmer, and Elliot all made appearances in place of Rogerson, de Vries, and Gallegos.
Auckland now take the game back to Go Media and to a packed-out stadium where 28,000+ fans are expected to be in attendance.
With the crowd behind them, they’ll fancy their chances of progressing to the club’s ever grand final.
Player of the Match: Louis Verstraete
Next home game at Go Media: Saturday, May 24. Leg two of our home semi-final against Melbourne Victory. Get your tickets!
