SORRENTO won with the narrowest of victories away, beating Balcatta 1-0 in their Football West National Premier League round 4 clash at Grindleford Reserve on Saturday.
The Gulls’ only goal just before half-time by Alex Morgan sealed the three points for Sorrento in a fortunate win.
The NPL WA fourth-round clash was an opportunity for Balcatta to secure their first victory of the season, but despite his side being on the back foot for most of the match, Gulls striker Alex Morgan scored the game’s only goal in the 41st minute with a sliding finish.
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READ NOWThe first half started with Balcatta looking the more dangerous side, as Sorrento struggled to keep the ball.
Yet it was the Gulls who went close to scoring when Scott Witschge’s long-range effort was tipped onto the bar by Balcatta goalkeeper Domenico Savoldelli.
The game was more even as the half continued, with both keepers being forced into action.
The home side came out firing in the second half and needed two great saves in quick succession from James Morgan to deny them an equaliser.
Neither team could keep prolonged possession which kept the spectators interest until the end after three minutes of stoppage time.
Balcatta coach Stajic rued his team’s fourth straight match without a win but was delighted with how his side played.
“I thought we were the better team. I thought we were absolutely outstanding today and I think we beat them in everything except the scoreboard,” Stajic said.
“We’re not far away at all, we can mix it with anyone and it won’t be long.”
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