The Wanderers Westfield W-League side put up a gallant effort but fell short in a 3-0 loss to Sydney FC in the Sydney Derby at Cromer Park on Saturday.
Missing a number of key players, the Red & Black went into the game as distinct underdogs against the reigning champions.
They were not helped by a slow start which saw them two goals down after 14 minutes and a second yellow to striker Kristen Hamilton which saw her sent off with 24 minutes left in the game did not help their bid for a comeback.
The home side went a goal up just two minutes into the game when Veronica Latsko scored but the Wanderers soon regained their composure and created a couple of chances.
Hamilton then received her first yellow before Sydney made it 2-0 on 14 minutes after Ellie Brush headed in from a corner.
The Wanderers refused to be rattled with Amy Harrison firing a shot from long range that rattled the crossbar.
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The Red & Black continued to look to get back into the game after half time with Hamilton curling an effort never the bar from the edge of the box.
However, all hope of a revival were dashed where Hamilton picked up her second yellow, leaving the Wanderers to play the final 24 minutes with 10 players.
The home side had a series of chances, but, to their credit, the Wanderers refused to buckle and show huge resilience to keep them at bay.
However, Sydney finally broke through in the second minute of off added time to make it 3-0 through Sofia Huerta.
While the result hurt, the Wanderers should be extremely proud of their performance under the circumstances.
They will now prepare for their vital game against competition leaders Melbourne City at Marconi Stadium on Thursday night.
