The Bonnyrigg White Eagles took a massive leap towards becoming serious premiership contenders this afternoon when they defeated rivals and Waratah Cup champions Sydney United 58 FC 2-1.
At a windy Sydney United Sports Centre, the White Eagles took all three points through goals by – who else – Robbie Younis and a spectacular strike by Aaron Peterson.
A late Michael Cindric goal was a consolation for the home side.
The first 20 minutes was end to end stuff, with both sides threatening but failing to convert chances.
One of the standouts from that period was the tussle between Robbie Younis and United 58 FC captain Ibrahim Haydar.
But despite the attentions of Haydar, it was scoring machine Younis who struck.
A great ball into the box from Yuta Koakado found Tadrosse who poked the ball back across goal and Younis did the rest by heading the ball into an empty net.
The Reds almost replied immediately but the White Eagles were able to thwart the danger.
Two minutes before the break the White Eagles almost had their second but for a great save from the goalkeeper, Justin Pasfield.
The White Eagles didn’t waste much time in the second half, netting their second goal after just eight minutes in. A ball from the back wasn’t dealt well by the United defence and Peterson pounced, sending a looping volley over Pasfield from 35 metres out. It was as good a goal as any.
Just as it looked like the Eagles would be easy winners, it was game on in the 81st minute when the Waratah Cup champions scored via substitute Cindric.
Stamatellis sent a delightful ball to the far post and the rebound from a save by the keeper found Cindric, who headed the ball into the back of the net.
The home side pushed hard in the dying minutes of the match to snatch a draw but the White Eagles held firm until the final whistle.
♦ Marconi Stallions went down 2-1 to the Blacktown Spartans at Rooty Hill.
♦ Match report by Nikola Pozder
