Sydney FC narrowly pipped the Central Coast Mariners women 1-0 in the first leg of the Liberty A-League semi-final at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium on Sunday afternoon, April 21.
In an action-packed semi-final clash that kept local football fans on the edge of their seats, the Central Coast Mariners were left rueing missed opportunities, despite dominating possession and racking up 18 shots, with seven on target.
Sydney FC’s keeper, Jada Whyman, was in stellar form, thwarting the Mariners’ efforts and even witnessing a shot rebound off the crossbar.
Mariners coach Emily Husband made a single strategic switch from last weekend’s thrilling elimination final victory, bringing in Tiarna Karambasis for Faye Bryson and adding Sophie Nenadovic to the bench, aiming to maintain the momentum.
The Mariners started strongly creating several early chances, cheered on by a robust home crowd of more than 4,000 at Industree Group Stadium.
Rola Badawiya was the first to test Whyman with a direct shot, while the pace of Sydney’s Courtnee Vine kept the Mariners’ defence on high alert.
The game was a true end-to-end spectacle, highlighted by Vine’s close call and Whyman’s crucial saves, including a standout moment where she tipped Wurigumula’s curling effort over the bar.
Despite these efforts, Sydney managed to snatch the lead early in the second half through Mackenzie Hawkesby, leaving the Mariners to chase the game.
The Mariners pushed hard, with Wurigumula striking the woodwork in a moment that could have turned the match.
With the tie still open and the second leg scheduled for next Saturday at Leichhardt Oval, the Mariners remain hopeful.
Their strong display suggests they’re fully capable of overturning the deficit and securing their place in the grand final in what promises to be an electrifying conclusion to the series.