Canberra United’s Impressive Victory Sets the Stage for Upcoming Elimination Final

Canberra United has secured their spot in the finals by concluding the Ninja A-League regular season with an impressive third consecutive victory, defeating the Western Sydney Wanderers 3-1.

The match at CommBank Stadium saw Canberra demonstrate their dominance over the struggling Wanderers, with the highlight being an astonishing free-kick taken by Bethany Gordon.

After Darcey Malone opened the scoring in the 25th minute, Gordon showcased her talent by curling a set-piece past a stranded Aimee Hall just five minutes into the second half.

Bronte Trew gave the Wanderers a glimmer of hope with her second goal in as many matches, but it was New Zealand international Ruby Nathan who sealed the win for Canberra with her first goal in the A-Leagues.

Aimee Hall, making her second appearance in the A-Leagues after her debut was prompted by a red card last week, produced a remarkable save in the 24th minute to deny Canberra.

However, the ensuing corner led to Canberra breaking the deadlock, as Malone’s header was deemed to have crossed the line.

Michelle Heyman nearly extended Canberra’s lead three minutes into the second half, but her shot whisked just past the post.

Canberra did manage to secure their second goal shortly after, with Gordon delivering a memorable free-kick that curled into the top corner of the net.

Western Sydney responded in the 64th minute as Trew lifted the ball over Sally James to score.

Nonetheless, Canberra quickly restored their two-goal advantage when New Zealand’s Nathan found the back of the net with just 12 minutes left on the clock.