Berkeley Sports FC claimed a crucial 1–0 win away at UOW FC on Saturday afternoon, in a tight contest settled by a moment of second-half brilliance. The result sees Berkeley climb to the top of the table after 10 rounds, continuing their impressive run of form.
The game got off to a slow start, with both teams struggling to find rhythm with frequent fouls and breaks in play. It wasn’t until the 24th minute that a clear chance emerged. UOW’s Cameron Hanson released Abdullah Anwer on a fast break, and the winger went past his marker before firing at goal. But Berkeley keeper Damian Bedwell produced a great stop to keep the scores level.
Berkeley responded in the 35th minute after winning the ball high. Preston Ridley fed Christopher Hollingshead into a promising position, but the striker fired his shot just wide of the target.
The rest of the first half remained a closed contest, with few opportunities for either side. Berkeley grew into thr game with more control in possession, while University opted for a direct plays. The teams went into the break still locked at 0–0.
The game came to life early in the second half. Just four minutes in, Berkeley’s Jacob Miller tested Liam Stevenson with a powerful effort from distance, but the UOW keeper produced solid diving save.
In the 57th minute, Anwer had another great chance for the hosts. But played through one-on-one, he could only find the side netting with his finish.
Just four minutes later, the defining moment arrived. Berkeley’s Mondo Kagami produced a brilliant solo run, dancing past two defenders before unleashing a strike that cannoned off the underside of the bar. The ball fell back into the box, and Ridley was fed the ball from a tight angle. He connected sweetly with his left foot and struck the ball into the far top corner. A stunning finish to make it 1–0 in the 61st minute.
Berkeley had chances to add to their lead as the half continued. Hollingshead came close in the 69th minute with a header from a corner that skimmed of the post. The energetic Kagami remained a threat, nearly scoring again with another surging run and shot that forced a strong save from Stevenson.
Despite a few half-chances, UOW couldn’t find a late equaliser, as Berkeley saw out the final stages with control. It was a hard-fought but deserved victory for the visitors.
Next week, Berkeley Sports travel to face Gerringong Breakers in search of a sixth straight win, while UOW FC will look to bounce back away at Unanderra Hearts.
Report by Simon Dahlen
Photo courtesy JK Media
