Howieson thunderbolt sets tone

Words: ACFC Media

Wednesday 22 February 2017

Picture: Phototek

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Auckland City FC took a firm grip of the Stirling Sports Premiership minor title chase with a comfortable 3-1 win over Southern United at Kiwitea Street today.

Southern United began the game positively but Auckland City FC slowly took control of possession and the match.

It was a far more polished performance from the hosts who saw the return of skipper Angel Berlanga, midfielder Albert Riera and a Stirling Sports Premiership club debut for All Whites playmaker Cam Howieson.

Howieson capped his Kiwitea Street bow in sensational style when he got clear of his marker and unleashed a thunderbolt of a shot from just outside the edge of the box.

Goalkeeper Josh Dijkstra had no chance as his defence backed off despite a valiant dive to his left.

Southern United created very little and relied on long balls to Danny Furlong that were easily mopped up by Berlanga and Marko Dordevic.

The Navy Blues increased their lead with yet another beautiful attacking corner that saw Clayton Lewis arrive late to hammer home a superb left foot shot that beat Dijkstra whose vision was partially obscured.

With Auckland City FC comfortably in control the match turned ugly when Lewis was scythed down by a wild challenge from Stephen Last.

An all-in ensued with players from both teams joining the fray. Referee Hayden McCabe had a difficult time seperating players from a melee that saw Emiliano Tade, Danny Furlong and Danny Ledwith each earn a caution.

Tade's disappointment was offset with a quick goal after the restart finishing off a great team move in the 50th minute to extend the lead further.

Southern United laboured gamely to the end and were rewarded for their endeavours when Ben O'Farrell netted a consolation goal with four minutes to play.

The Navy Blues next match is away to Super City derby rivals Waitakere United at Trusts Stadium on Sunday 26 February.

The match kicks off at 4.35pm.

Ends

Match Result
Stirling Sports Premiership
Wednesday 22 February 2017
Auckland City FC 3 (Cam Howieson 17', Clayton Lewis 37', Emiliano Tade 50')
Southern United 1 (Ben O'Farrell 86')
Halftime: 2-0

 

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