WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Auckland City FC’s National League hopes suffered a major blow on Saturday as the Navy Blues fell to a 3-0 defeat against Miramar Rangers AFC in Wellington.
15 November 2025
The result leaves City’s destiny out of their own hands, with three rounds remaining in the competition.
The opening half-hour proved frustrating for the visitors, who struggled to find rhythm before being undone by two set-piece goals. Miramar’s leading scorer Martin Bueno broke the deadlock from the penalty spot, confidently dispatching his effort into the bottom corner despite goalkeeper Nathan Garrow guessing correctly.
Minutes later, Auckland’s defensive frailties were exposed again. A precise free-kick delivery from Owen Smith found Theo Ettema, who headed home unchallenged to double the hosts’ advantage.
Despite pushing forward with intent, City were unable to break through Miramar’s disciplined defensive line before the interval.
The Navy Blues emerged from the break determined to claw their way back. Regont Murati fired over from close range immediately after the restart, while Gerard Garriga forced a superb diving save.
Yet, hopes of a comeback were dashed when Miramar struck again from another set piece. This time it was Tim Fenton who rose highest to head home, extending the lead to three and effectively sealing the contest.
City continued to press forward, creating chances but finding no reward. Matt Ellis tested the goalkeeper with a powerful strike, Michael Den Heijer rattled the post, and Bevan went agonisingly close with a shot inches wide. Despite their efforts, the Navy Blues could not find a breakthrough on a day where fortune deserted them.
Amid the disappointment, there was one moment of pride. Veteran striker Ryan De Vries etched his name into club history, making his 243rd appearance for Auckland City FC.
In doing so, he surpassed former strike partner Emiliano Tade to become the club’s all-time record holder, a milestone that cements his legacy in Navy Blues folklore.
Ends
Match Result
National League R8
Saturday, 15 November
David Farrington Park, Wellington
Miramar Rangers AFC: 3 (Martin BUENO 26’, Theo ETTEMA 30’, Timothy FENTON 50’)
Auckland City FC: 0
HT: 2-0
AC: 24. Nathan GARROW GK), 2. Mario ILICH, (CP), 4. Christian GRAY, 5. Nikko BOXALL, 7. Myer BEVAN, 8.Gerard GARRIGA, 11. Ryan DE VRIES, 12. Regent MURATI, 15.Jeremy FOO, (21. Matt ELLIS 53’), 25. Michael DEN HEIJER, 26. David YOO, ( 6. Orlando THORPE 69’)
SUBS NOT USED: 18. Seb CIGANDA, 3. Adam MITCHELL, 20. Paris DOMFEH
HEAD COACH: Paul POSA
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Adria CASALS
GK COACH: Jonas HOFFMANN
PHYSIOTHERAPIST: Matt PAYNE
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
