AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Auckland City extended their winning streak in the Northern League with a commanding 5-2 victory over West Coast Rangers under lights Fred Taylor Park.
30 May 2025
The Navy Blues wasted no time asserting their dominance, racing to a 3-0 lead in scintillating fashion. David Yoo, opening his account for the club, slotted home confidently after being expertly set up by Nathan Lobo.
Adam Bell doubled the advantage with brilliant finish, his first goal for Auckland City, before Mario Ilich soared above the defence to head in a perfectly weighted free kick.
However, veteran Rangers striker Allan Pearce pounced on defensive errors on either side of the break to narrow the deficit to 3-2, igniting hopes of an unlikely comeback. But Auckland City steadied the ship, with Tong Zhou delivering a moment of brilliance, a sensational strike that reasserted their control, before Myer Bevan sealed the win in stoppage time.
Speaking after the match, Yoo emphasised the importance of reclaiming control in the second half: “I thought we started off really well but then conceded a sloppy goal. It was really important that we got those two second-half goals to control the game and get the win.”
As Yoo reflected on his maiden goal: “It’s obviously a really special moment. It’s been a long time coming, but I’m really happy.”
With little time to rest, Auckland City will turn their attention to Onehunga Mangere United in the Chatham Cup on Saturday before jetting off to the USA for their FIFA Club World Cup campaign.
Momentum is firmly on Auckland City’s side as they prepare to test themselves against global giants Bayern Munich, SL Benfica, and Boca Juniors. The Navy Blues will hope their domestic form translates onto the world stage.
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Ends
Match Result
Northern League 12
Friday, 30 May, Fred Taylor Park
West Coast Rangers: 2( Allan PEARCE 38′, 53’)
Auckland City FC: 5 (David YOO 13’, Adam BELL 23′, Mario ILICH 26’, Tong ZHOU 73′, Myer BEVAN 90’+4)
HT: 1-3
AC: 1. Conor TRACEY (GK), 2. Mario ILICH (C), 3. Adam MITCHELL, 4. Christian GRAY, (23. Alfie ROGERS 28’), 7. Myer BEVAN, 8. Gerard GARRIGA, 13. Nathan LOBO, 21. Adam BELL, 26. David YOO (22. Tong ZHOU 69), 27. Haris ZEB (9. Angus KILKOLLY 75’), 28. Paris DOMFEH (17. Jerson LAGOS 69)
SUBS NOT USED: 24. Nathan GARROW (GK)
HEAD COACH: Paul POSA
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Adria CASALS
ASSISTANT COACH: Daewook Kim
GK COACH: Jonas HOFFMANN
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
PHYSIOTHERAPIST: Matt PAYNE
