AUCKLAND, NZ - Auckland City FC delivered the perfect response to last week’s setback, producing a composed and ultimately convincing 3–0 win over Western Springs at Kiwitea Street — a result shaped by moments of quality, resilience without the ball, and the influence of the bench.
27 June 2026
The afternoon carried added significance as vice‑captain Adam Mitchell marked his 200th appearance for the club, leading the side out on a day that underlined both his longevity and the team’s collective standards.
The opening stages were tight, with both sides feeling their way into the contest. City looked to release Dylan Connolly and Ryan De Vries early, while Western Springs pushed forward through Reid Drake, only for Matthew Foord to gather confidently.
The visitors enjoyed promising spells of possession, but Auckland City gradually asserted themselves and found the breakthrough through a moment of ingenuity. Gerard Garriga, who has developed a habit of producing decisive moments from set pieces, struck directly from a corner for the second consecutive week to give the Navy Blues a 1–0 lead.
Springs responded well and forced City into periods of disciplined defending. Foord remained assured, the back line organised, and Mitchell’s experience evident as the hosts absorbed pressure without losing structure.
Reflecting on the performance, Mitchell described Western Springs as a good side strengthened by returning players from the Pro League, and he felt the clean sheet reflected the collective effort of the defensive unit. He spoke of satisfaction with the performance and the importance of continuing to climb the table after a tough outing the previous week.
The match remained finely balanced until the introduction of Angus Kilkolly, whose impact was immediate. A scramble from a corner fell his way and he reacted quickest to poke home the second goal, giving City breathing room. Moments later he struck the crossbar after a flowing move involving Dylan Manickum, a reminder of the threat he brings when the game opens up.
Western Springs continued to battle, with Ryan Watson and George Cooper going close, but the decisive moment arrived late when substitute Shaan Anand released Kilkolly with a well‑weighted pass. The striker finished confidently to secure his brace and put the result beyond doubt.
Head coach Rudy Mozr praised the response from his side, describing the performance as dominant and highlighting the number of early chances that could have created an even bigger margin. He felt the better team won and was pleased with how the group reacted after the loss at Birkenhead.
Mozr noted strong individual displays but emphasised the importance of the collective, pointing to the contributions of players returning to the squad and the stability provided across the back line.
For Auckland City, the afternoon delivered everything they needed: three goals, a clean sheet, a return to winning ways and a milestone moment for a long‑serving leader.
Mitchell reflected on his journey with pride, speaking of countless memories across Club World Cups, OFC competitions and challenging away trips that shaped some of the best moments of his career. Reaching 200 appearances felt significant, and he expressed his desire for many more to come.
A competitive contest, a statement result and a reminder of the standards expected at Kiwitea Street. The Navy Blues move forward with momentum restored.
ROSKILL SCHOOLS TURF PROJECT
Our club continues to push forward with the Roskill Schools Turf Project — a modern, year‑round community space designed to give thousands of young people a safe, reliable home for football, learning and connection.
Every contribution brings the project closer to reality. Every dollar helps build a future for the next generation.
Ends
Northern League R15
Saturday, 27 June
Kiwitea St
Auckland City FC: 3 (Gerard GARRIGA 10’, Angus KILKOLLY 69′, 90+1’)
Western Springs : 0
HT: 1-0
AC: 1.Matt FOORD (GK) 2. Mario ILICH (C) 3. Adam MITCHELL 4. Christian GRAY, 5. Nathan ROSTRON 7. Michal DOUDERA (27. Tom GOLDING 67’) 8. Gerard GARRIGA (15 Jeremy FOO 74′) 10. Dylan MANICKUM (13. Shaan ANAND 90′) 11. Ryan De VRIES (9. Angus KILKOLLY 67’) 16. Fergus GILLION 19. Dylan CONNOLY
SUBS NOT USED: 24.Ari PRASAD (GK)
HEAD COACH: Rudy MOZR
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Alan SHAKER
GOALKEEPER COACH: Adam BANNISTER
TRAINER: Karlo PAVIC
PHYSIO: Matt PAYNE
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
