City halted by Bay Olympic

Words: ACFC MEDIA

Thursday 25 April 2024

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Auckland City FC’s unbeaten run in the Northern League came to an end with a 1-0 defeat to Bay Olympic on Wednesday night at the Croatian Club.

The decisive blow was delivered in the 6th minute minute by Ronaldo Munoz whose curling drive flew past City keeper Joe Wallis.

The defeat, which was the Navy Blues' first in the Northern League since 2022, has also ended the defending champions’ six match winning streak and perfect record so far this season.

Following the early set back City have created a number of opportunities to level the scores only to be denied by Olympic goalkeeper Oliver Pocock who produced a string of inspired saves as well as by his goalpost that came twice to the visitors’ rescue.

It was a frustrating evening for Albert Riera, only the second coach behind Ramon Tribulietx to be in charge of the Navy Blues for 100 times and defender Christian Gary who was marking his 50th appearance for the club.

Despite the loss, Auckland City remain at the top of the Northern League table ahead of Western Springs on goal difference.

However Albert Riera’s men have played a game more than their rivals as Wednesday night’s match against Olympic was brought forward from Round 9 in order to accommodate the Navy Blues’ upcoming OFC Champions League Campaign next month in Tahiti

City and Springs will face each other on Saturday in a highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash on Saturday afternoon at Kiwitea Street

Ends

Match Result
Wednesday 20 April 2024
Northern League Rd9
Auckland City FC: 0
Bay Olympic: 1 (Ronaldo MUNOZ 6’) J

HT: 0-1

AC: 24. Joe WALLIS (GK), 2. Mario ILICH, 4. Christian GRAY, (3. Adam MITCHELL), 8. Gerard GARRIGA, 10. Dylan MANICKUM, 13. Nathan LOBO, 16. Joe LEE, (Angus KILKOLLY 61’) 19. Liam GILLION, 21. Adam BELL, 25. Michael DEN HEIJER, 27. Stipe UKICH (12. Regont MURATI 61)

SUBS NOT USED: 1. Conor TRACEY (GK), 23 Alfie ROGERS

COACH: Albert RIERA
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
GK COACH: Enaut ZUBIKARAI
TECHNICAL: Adria CASALS
LOGISTICS: Keith COTON
PHYSIO: Matt PAYNE