Travelling over the bridge on Wednesday night for the Battle of the Beaches Preliminary Elimination Final, belief was high throughout the Manly United squad.
Manly United came out early full of confidence but both teams were showing the nervous energy that often accompanies knockout football. Chances were rare in the first half, though both sides threatened.
After a scoreless first half, the contest sprang to life. Manly began to find more space and were rewarded in the 67th minute when Ayumu Kimura capitalised on a defensive lapse, calmly controlling a long ball before slipping his finish beyond the Sharks goalkeeper for a priceless 1-0 lead.
As the clock ticked down, Manly looked set to book their place in the next stage. Yet finals football has a habit of producing late twists. Deep into stoppage time, Sutherland refused to surrender. Tariq Maia struck dramatically in the 90th minute that sent the match into extra time.
The additional 30 minutes proved a battle of endurance and Manly United’s youth stood up but the teams could still not be separated. The winner would be decided in a penalty shootout, and as he has done so many times this season, Harry Turner rose to the occasion for Manly.
After both teams converted their opening penalties, Sutherland’s second attempt hit the post and from their Manly United held their nerve, emerging 5-4 winners.
Manly United now turn their attention to a Preliminary Semi Final showdown against Sydney United 58 FC at Sydney United Sports Centre this Sunday, 6 September, kicking off at 2:00pm. With a place in the Grand Final on the line, what better way to spend Father’s Day than supporting the Manly boys.
But don’t catch your breath just yet. The action continues tonight at Cromer Park, where our Under 20s take on NWS Spirit FC with a place in the Preliminary Elimination Final on the line.
We wish the boys all the very best as they look to keep their finals campaign alive and continue what’s already been a memorable week for Manly United. Get down to Cromer Park and show your support as the next chapter of our finals journey unfolds.
