Auckland FC has returned to form in the Isuzu UTE A-League, clinching a 2-0 victory over Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium, extending their lead to seven points at the top of the table.
Though they had fewer chances and less possession in the first half, the league leaders demonstrated their dominance when defender Nando Pijnaker scored with a powerful header during first-half stoppage time.
The Roar created numerous opportunities to equalise but were thwarted by Auckland goalkeeper Alex Paulsen, who kept a clean sheet.
Captain Hiroki Sakai sealed the match with Auckland’s second goal in the 83rd minute, which was confirmed after a lengthy VAR review.
This victory ends the Black Knights’ three-match winless streak and places them seven points ahead of Western United at the summit of the Isuzu UTE A-League.
Unfortunately for Brisbane Roar, coached by Ruben Zadkovich, this marks their 13th defeat of the season, and they have yet to secure a victory at Suncorp Stadium for over a year.
On a warm and humid afternoon in Brisbane, it was the home side that started off strong.
Veteran midfielder Jay O’Shea had the first chance of the match, forcing goalkeeper Alex Paulsen into a clever save from the edge of the Auckland penalty area just 10 minutes in.
After the first drinks break, young Roar talent Jacob Brazete attempted to weave through the Auckland defence but his shot lacked power and hardly troubled Paulsen in the Black Knights’ goal.
Despite Brisbane enjoying more possession in the opening half, it was Auckland who capitalised on a lapse in concentration in first-half stoppage time.
From a well-recycled set-piece, Auckland midfielder Verstraete delivered an accurate cross that found the unmarked Pijnaker, whose thunderous header soared past Acton and into the net.
Seeking to respond in the second half, Roar’s coach Ruben Zadkovich made three substitutions in the 57th minute. Just two minutes later, they nearly found the equaliser.
O’Shea’s dangerous low free-kick was parried into the air by Paulsen, and central defender Hosine Bility reacted quickly, but his header was saved impressively by the diving Paulsen.
With momentum building, O’Shea once more tested Paulsen, who elegantly saved the Irishman’s low shot, pushing it around the post for a corner.
Despite Brisbane’s increased pressure, it was the visitors who struck decisively for a second goal following a chance for the Roar.
After Paulsen saved a header from Florin Berenguer, he quickly launched an attack for Auckland.
Following an initial flick-on, captain Sakai dashed forward to join the offensive, receiving a pass from Logan Rogerson and burying it from the edge of the box.
A lengthy VAR check ensued to ascertain whether Rogerson was onside during the buildup, but the goal was ultimately validated. Sakai celebrated with his teammates as Auckland secured a seven-point lead at the top.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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