Brisbane Roar fell short to reigning Champions Sydney FC after a 3-2 defeat at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday evening.
Sydney FC were on the front foot from the start, with Mackenzie Hawkseby opening the scoring in the 13th minute with a turn-and-strike from the edge of the box.
Moments later, Roar goalkeeper Olivia Sekany went down with what looks to be a leg injury, prompting the introduction of Keeley Richards into goals.
After returning from the break, Richards made a superb save on a long-range strike from Princess Ibini to deny Sydney their second.
In the 49th minute, recent Matildas debutant Laini Freier equalised with a stunning strike over Sydney’s goalkeeper.
Brisbane found some momentum from this, with Mariel Hecher scoring her first goal of the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season after slamming the ball into the back of the net.
Sydney FC fought back in the 67th minute with Michelle Tobin equalising, and reclaimed the lead with former Roar striker Shea Connors scoring in the 72nd minute to secure three points for the hosts.
Roar return to Perry Park next Sunday for a massive clash against league ladders Melbourne City in front of home support.
MATCH DETAILS
Ninja A-League Women 2024/25 – Round 17: Sydney FC v Brisbane Roar
Leichhardt Oval, Sydney
Sunday, 2 March (KO 4:00pm AEST)
