Sydney FC’s NPL side put in a good performance against Sutherland Sharks on Saturday evening but were ultimately left frustrated after they couldn’t find a way through to goal.
In the NPL match, Sydney FC took control of the game right from the start, showcasing their attacking prowess. They had a total of eight shots on target, while the Sutherland Sharks managed only one. Credit must be given to the Sharks’ goalkeeper, who made two exceptional saves during the match. Unfortunately they were unable to find a way past Marko Bulic.
Several players stood out in the NPL match with the likes of U20 defender Nathan Paull exhibited remarkable defensive abilities, thwarting the Sharks’ attacking attempts and ensuring a solid backline for Sydney FC. Also, U19 midfielder Matthew Scarcella displayed excellent control of the midfield, dictating the pace of the game and facilitating smooth transitions from defence to attack. Additionally, U20 midfielder Oscar Priestman showcased his technical skills and playmaking abilities, adding a creative spark to the team’s gameplay.
After the match, Head Coach Jimmy van Weeren was pleased with the performance but frustrated with the overall result.
“I don’t think it was just frustrating for me as I know the boys will be too.
“I think we dominated the chances in the game, but we didn’t work Marko (Bulic) enough in goal and we weren’t good enough in their box to convert the opportunities tonight,” he said.
“We created a few chances, particularly in the first-half, with balls in behind their defence but we couldn’t take any and that’s the way it goes sometimes.
“Our position on the table isn’t the greatest of importance to us at this stage as it’s more about bringing the players on and getting week-in, week-out performances from them that is the main aim.
“We are where we are on the table but it’s a long season and we’ll keep trying to play football the way we want it played to turn games like these into wins but that said, Sutherland were very strong at the back tonight and are a difficult side to break down.”
Earlier in the afternoon, the U20s team delivered a stunning performance, particularly in the first half of their match. They dominated the game and sealed a well-deserved victory with a 2-0 scoreline, leaving the Sutherland Sharks struggling to keep up.
The standout performers included the likes of U18s midfielder Zane Schreiber who opened the scoring, netting an impressive goal to give Sydney FC the early lead. His skill and composure in front of the goal were commendable. U18s midfielder Louis Agosti displayed immense energy and contributed significantly to the team’s attacking efforts. U19s defender Hayden Matthews showcased his defensive abilities, ensuring a solid backline and thwarting the Sharks’ attempts to find the net. Lastly, U18s striker Bailey Callaghan sealed the victory with a clinical finish, scoring the second goal and cementing the U20s’ dominance in the game.
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