The Westfield W-League Wanderers yesterday were defeated 4-3 by Adelaide United in Adelaide.
The Westfield W-League Wanderers yesterday were defeated 4-3 by Adelaide United in Adelaide.
A double to Servet Uzunlar in the first half got the Wanderers off to a great start but a controversial penalty called just prior to half-time brought United back into the match.
Coach Stephen Roche was content at half-time but was disappointed in the decision by the official to award the penalty just prior to the break.
“I definitely feel as though it was a game changer,” Roche said. “I don-t think it was a penalty, we were in front by two at that stage and definitely playing the better football.”
The second half saw the Wanderers continue to dominate possession and field position with United having their best opportunities on the counter attack.
The 55th minute saw the Wanderers push in front once more with a goal to Jenna Kingsley.
It was 10 minutes of complacency late in the match that cost the Wanderers the match with three goals being scored by United in a period that Roche says was just a complete drop in concentration.
“I could see it happening and as it started I saw it just get worse and worse.
“We made a few mistakes and all three of the goals were quality strikes that not many goal keepers would have been able to stop.
“The signs are there for us and we will improve, we can always improve. It-s a lesson learnt and we move forward from here.
We are still a new team and are continuing to learn how each individual plays so we-ll be better for the run.”
The match ended with United 4-3 in front and the Wanderers now look to a round two clash against Sydney FC at Leichardt Oval next Saturday.
