Woonona have booked themselves a place in the WPL Womens Grand Final at WIN Stadium on the 1st of September after defeating Shellharbour JFC 2-1. The first half of the game was a pretty even affair with Shellharbour JFC probably having a small territorial advantage.
The tempo was dialed up in the second half with both sides having their chances.
Woonona’s Sophie Heath scored in the 63rd minute but not to be outdone Tayla Kelly equalised for Shellharbour in the 80th minute. With the game looking like it was heading to extra time and Shellharbour looking like they would have had the stronger legs, a well taken free kick just outside the box by Sophie Heath saw her score her second goal for the night in extra time and take Woonona’s lead out to 2-1 where it finished.
In the elimination semi final, Albion Park White Eagles narrowly defeated University FC 1-0, securing their place in the preliminary final against Shellharbour JFC on Sunday.
University FC began the match with purpose with many attacking raids within the first 15 minutes. These went unrewarded and APWE managed to work their way into the fixture with strong determination and grit.
They were rewarded on 29 minutes when Brittany Ring fired a long range free kick that managed to rocket into the top corner. It was a goal that was worthy of winning any match.
University FC pressed hard as the game progressed however the Eagles stood firm holding out and giving themselves a shot at a place at the Grand Final.
In the earlier (Second Grade) games, Woonona edged out Shellharbour JFC 2-0. Bethany Nielsen putting the Sharks in front in the 52nd before Ainsley Hawes sealed the win in the 85th minute. League Champions, Woonona also booked themselves a date at WIN Stadium in Second Grade.
In the other Second Grade semi final (Elimination), University FC proved too strong for Bulli running out 3-0 winners. The game was scoreless for the first hour but an unfortunate own goal saw University take the lead before Madeline Negus doubled their lead on 67 minutes. Timia Osman put the game to bed with a late goal to round off teh scoring and give her team’s Grand Final hopes alive.
The Youth Grades play tonight.
The Women have a short turn around as they prepare for the Preliminary Finals on Sunday at Ocean Park.
The Grand Finals are set for WIN Stadium on Sunday 1 September.
Photos courtesy of Richie Wagner
