The undefeated streak at Macedonia Park continues for Perth Glory as Ruben Zadkovich’s men got the job done 1-0 against the Western Sydney Wanderers.
Young gun Keegan Jelacic’s strike in the 59th minute was the difference in the end for the home side, as good quality chances were few and far in between for both sides.
Though in the end, based on the balance of play, the Glory deserved to win the game, which comes as a welcome relief for the members and fans following Monday’s disappointing hit-out against Adelaide United.
In the first half, Perth had the better of the general play.
Two rockets from Salim Khelifi and Jack Clisby were some standout moments from the opening 45 minutes, as both required smart saves from the Wanderers’ keeper Lawrence Thomas.
The Wanderers during that first period seemed a bit leggy and lacked that clinical edge, which was consistent throughout the full 90.
Then came the second half, the game began to open up a little bit and when his moment came, Keegan Jelacic stepped up and delivered
A great run from David Williams, who was positive and took on a few defenders, and as the ball deflected into Jelacic’s stride, the Kiwi hooked the ball with his left foot curling it past Thomas into the bottom right corner.
The following 30 minutes were all about holding onto the lead, as the Wanderers very slowly grew into the game.
A nervy final five minutes of added time left the members and fans at Macedonia Park biting their nails, but young keeper Cameron Cook held his ground on a number of occasions, keeping the Wanderers at bay.
A special shoutout must go out to Cook, as this was his first start of the season and with many fans, including myself, wanting to see the young man get his opportunity in the first team, he got it and he didn’t disappoint.
There will be concerns however with the injury clouds hanging over both Salim Khelifi and Luke Bodnar as both looked impressive but unfortunately they were forced to leave the pitch.
Other than that, tonight’s win was a positive step in the right direction.
There will be some question marks albeit around the status of Mark Beevers and Ryan Williams who were not present in the starting eleven, however with those two returning, as well as Socceroo striker Adam Taggart later on next week, things are looking promising.
It wasn’t a perfect performance by the Glory, but when you play against an excellent side in the Wanderers who let’s be honest weren’t that impressive tonight, you still must get the results, especially at home.
All eyes will now be on Tuesday’s clash against the Brisbane Roar at Macedonia Park, who are also coming off an impressive win against the Melbourne Victory.
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