Derby win puts Sorrento back on top of PS4 NPLWA ladder
Report by Peter Simcox
Sorrento moved to the top of the PS4 NPLWA table after 3-2 win against ECU Joondalup in the Northern Derby at the ECU Football Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
It was a typical derby game with both sides looking for bragging rights in their first meeting of the season, and the home side were ahead early through Daryl Nicol.
Sorrento hit back with Billy Quinncroft heading home, and the visitors then had to hold on as the home side created a number of chances.
Against the run of play, a stunning long-range shot from Sorrento substitute Alex Morgan gave them the lead and moments later Jack Salter wrapped up the points for his side. Sam Pollard scored a late consolation goal for the home team.
Sorrento assistant coach Michael Johnson said his team had to earn the points in what was a resolute performance from the opposition.
“We always knew we would be in for a tough game when we came to ECU,” he said.
“It’s a local derby, league positions count for nothing, and fortunately we did enough to get the three points today.
“We had to defend well and our back five have been the foundation for us all season. It took us a while to get going the other way and once we got the second goal I didn’t think we were going to lose it from there.”
Johnson was particularly impressed by Morgan’s contribution.
“Really pleased with the win and the goal from Alex was terrific, he’s had to bide his time on the bench for the last couple of weeks but to come on score a goal like that is fantastic.”
Sorrento skipper Steven McDonald said it was a tough game but they stood firm and got the right result.
“It’s always tough up here, it wasn’t pretty, but we’ll take the three points, ‘smash and grab’ as they say,” he said.
“They pressed us early in the second half, but once we scored the second we took control -and what a strike from Alex! I think we’ll nickname him Pirlo from now on.”
In other matches on Saturday, reigning PS4 NPLWA champions Perth SC let go of their top spot position after grinding out a scoreless draw with Armadale at Dorrien Gardens, while Subiaco made it two wins in a row with 3-0 victory over Balcatta at Grindleford Reserve.
An injury-time penalty handed Perth Glory a win over last-placed Mandurah City at Kelly’s Hot Water Community Stadium and Joondalup United drew 2-2 with Cockburn City at Percy Doyle Reserve.
On Sunday, Floreat moved to 3rd place on the league ladder following a 1-1 draw with Bayswater City, while Stirling Lions picked up a vital three points after a 2-0 home victory over Inglewood at Macedonia Park.
Joondalup United 2-2 Cockburn City
Bayswater City 1-1 Floreat Athena
Stirling Lions 2-0 Inglewood United
Comments
Comment Guidelines: The SportsTG Network is made up of players, families and passionate sports followers like you who have a strong opinion about sport. That's great - we want you to have your say and share your thoughts with the world. However, we have a few rules that you must follow to keep it fun for all. Please don't be rude, abusive, swear or vilify others. Apart from some pretty serious sport sanctions, we also can ban you and report you if things get out of hand. So play fair and have fun, and thanks for your contribution.