NPL WA: Armadale safe from relegation with 2-1 win over Stirling

The 2-1 victory ensures that Armadale is safe from possible relegation, moving four points clear of Subiaco with one game to go.

Armadale has now won four of its past six games – a fantastic achievement considering the team only took two wins from the first 15 rounds of the season.

On the other hand, Stirling’s loss means it is no longer in contention for a top four spot as it is now four points behind its closest competition.

The home team has suffered a terrible run of form in recent weeks. This latest loss means it has gone without a win in six games.

Armadale coach Paul Price was jubilant with what the win meant for the club’s season but considered it just a reward for what the team had managed to produce across the entire season.

“There’s been a lot of pressure on the club – obviously no one wants to be relegated but I think we’ve done it in style today; we deserved the win,” he said.

“We’ve had players signed to other clubs, injuries… it’s been difficult, but we’ve got one of the best defensive records of the last 12 games. No one’s come away and said they’ve played a lot better than us all season.”

Jesse Fuller gave Armadale the lead early after a goalmouth scramble allowed him enough space to shoot truly.

Stirling drew level in the opening minutes of the second half as a scrappy defence cover following a corner allowed Brodie Martin to walk the ball into the net.

While a drawn game looked on the cards as the minutes ticked by, a low-firing free kick by Ellis Healing sealed the win for Armadale in the 80th minute.

Stirling’s final game of the home and away season comes against Perth Glory, while Armadale will face Subiaco.