Emphatic Win Reignite Title Charge 

Following two defeats and a draw, the defending Northern League, National League and OFC Champions League title holders were desperate for a strong performance and thanks to a hat-trick hero Matt Ellis, they got exactly that.

Ellis was at the heart of the Navy Blues’ dominance, not only securing his first goals of the season with a stunning hat-trick but also assisting Myer Bevan for the opening goal. Gerard Garriga got in on the action too, rounding off an energetic and clinical team display that saw Auckland City return to second place on the league table behind Birkenhead and a point clear of fourth-placed Auckland United.

The Navy Blues showed their intent early, and in the 14th minute, Ellis raced down the left before delivering a perfect cross to Bevan, who coolly volleyed home. Garriga doubled the advantage in the 27th minute, capitalising on a lovely ball from Tong Zhou to fire past the keeper from inside the box.

Just before the break, Manurewa pulled one back against the run of play with Anas Zara’s effort ensuring his side stayed in contention.

The second half was where Auckland City truly made their mark. After the restart, a brilliant combination between Ellis and Bevan saw Ellis finish in style to restore the Navy Blues’ two-goal advantage. Evan Paez, however, responded just two minutes later with a looping long-range strike, momentarily putting pressure on the hosts.

But Ellis was far from finished. In the 70th minute, Joe Lee danced past two defenders before teeing up Ellis, who smashed home his second goal of the night. Deep into injury time, Ellis completed his hat-trick, sealing the 5-2 win after a brilliant pass from the lively Dylan Connolly.

Ellis, elated with his performance, reflected on the result:

“It was good to bounce back. We’ve had a tough few weeks, so a convincing win tonight was exactly what we needed. All the boys put in 100%. Another game in a few days, so we’re looking forward to that and we keep working.”

When asked about his personal performance, Ellis added: “Yeah, stoked. I haven’t been on the scoresheet all season, so getting three in one game—and an assist—feels great. I couldn’t be happier.”

Auckland City’s focus now shifts to Saturday’s crucial Dominion Road Derby against Auckland United, a fixture that could define the club’s season.

Adam Bell, celebrating his 50th match, highlighted the importance of the win:

“It was crucial. We had a run of unlucky games, so we really needed that win—and scoring lots of goals was a bonus.”

On his personal milestone, Bell reflected:

 “I’ve been here a couple of years now, starting in the U-23s before moving up. It’s great to be part of a good group of players, training every day, and seeing results come out.”

Looking ahead to Auckland United, Bell was under no illusions about the challenge ahead:

“They always bring a good game—always competitive. We’ve shared results quite a lot. Obviously, we want to continue this form, so it’s going to be a great match.”

Auckland City head into the Dominion Derby full of confidence, eager to keep their momentum rolling in the title chase and beyond.

Ends

Match Result
Northern League 13
Wednesday, 21 May, Croatian Cultural Society
Auckland City FC: 5 (Myer BEVAN 14’, Gerard GARRIGA 27, ’Matt ELLIS 55′, 70′, 90’+3′)
Manurewa AFC: 2 (Anas Zara 43’, Daniel Paez 57’)

HT: 2-1

AC: 18. Areya PRASAD (GK), 3. Adam MITCHELL (C), (23. Alfie ROGERS, 80’), 4. Christian GRAY, 7. Myer BEVAN,  (11. Ryan DE VRIES 62’), 8. Gerard GARRIGA, (21. Adam BELL, 75’), 13. Nathan LOBO, 16. Joe LEE , 19. Dylan CONNOLLY,  21. Matt ELLIS,  22. Tong ZHOU, (26. David YOO 62’), 30. Jackson MANUEL

SUBS NOT USED: 24. Nathan GARROW  (GK)

HEAD COACH: Paul POSA
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Adria CASALS
GK COACH: Jonas HOFFMANN
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
PHYSIOTHERAPIST: Matt PAYNE