Article: Liam Branley
Photo: Andrew McLean

Yoogali SC 2 (Davidson 85’, I. Donadel 120+1’) defeated by Wagga City Wanderers 2 (Menser 18’ I. Brooker 117’ (p)) - Wagga won 5-4 on penalties

Wagga City Wanderers have been crowned NPL2 champions after defeating Yoogali SC on penalties in a thrilling Grand Final at Deakin Stadium on a scorching Sunday afternoon (4 October).

The two sides could only be separated by a seven-round penalty shootout with the Wanderers’ Jacob Brooker scoring the final penalty. The back and forth affair saw each team score one goal in regulation and another in extra time, providing the crowd with plenty of entertainment.

The Wanderers coach Michael Babic praised his opposing coach and overall the level of competition that the region produces.

“Luke can be extremely proud of what Yoogali achieved this year, I have massive respect for him and his side,” he said. “I thought it was a highly entertaining game that showcased what Riverina football brings to the NPL."

The Wanderers began the first half controlling the ball, winning the battle of possession. Both squads showed signs of nerves with several chances resulting in mistimed shots, sailing over the crossbar.

The first real opportunity came in the 11th minute with the Wanderers earning a free-kick two metres outside the box. Matthew Menser's right foot strike looked destined for the top corner but a terrific acrobatic save by Michael De Paoli denied the Wanderers from taking the lead.

The Wanderers would not be denied for long as Menser showed why he is the Wagga's leading goal scorer with a classy finish in the 19th minute, with a deft outside of the boot finish.

Yoogali had a frustrating first half with several opportunities wasted and a slew of fouls harnessing any chance of leveling the score, but they began the second half with a high level of intensity, which resulted in early chances. However, the Wanderers' defence was up for the challenge, not allowing their opponents to convert any opportunities.

The Wanderers' defence was finally broken with just five minutes to play, as Yoogali’s Grant Davidson pounced on chance and powered a half volley into the top right corner of the goal, leveling the score.

A clear shift in momentum saw Yoogali snapped into gear and almost score another goal in the dying minutes of regulation only to be denied by the Wanderers goalkeeper Robert Fry.

The first period of extra time went scoreless with obvious signs of fatigue plaguing both teams. Each side had chances although ultimately were not able to capitalise.

The second period saw the separated crowds lift their teams and raise the intensity. Tempers flared as Yoogali’s Isaac Donadel and the Wanderers Carl Pideski were jawing at each other after a hard 50/50 contest in the 111th minute, reflecting the stakes.

In the 117th minute, a through ball down the left side found Elijah Brooker inside the box only to be fouled by Bavaresco, resulting in a successful penalty goal from the eventual man of the match Isaac Brooker.

The game seemed to be all but over, as the Wanderers crowd began to chant for their side only to be interrupted by a last chance strike from 40 metres out by Donadel to tie the game in the last seconds of the match, leaving the crowd stunned.

The penalty shootout saw valiant efforts from both De Paoli and Fry in the goals but ultimately it was the Wanderers who took home the trophy. Babic was thrilled with the win and the performance of his side.

“Our boys showed enormous character to regroup and see the game out, I’m so happy that Pideski gets to go out a winner,” Babic said.