Domfeh, Morgan fire Perth into final
Report by Alex Vlahos
Michael Domfeh scored a brilliant volley to help Perth SC reach Sunday's final. Photo by Tom McCarthy
Perth SC secured their shot at a third straight NPLWA Men’s Finals Series crown after they defeated league champions ECU Joondalup 3-1 after extra-time at a wet Percy Doyle Reserve on Wednesday night.
The highlight was Michael Domefeh’s superb volley which put the Azzurri 2-1 in front in the first period of extra-time. And Jackson Morgan’s fizzing strike which sealed the victory wasn’t bad either.
With heavy rain a constant throughout much of the match, the Azzurri made a fast start with Gustavo Catarcione striking home a Sasa Njegic cross to open the scoring after just 10 minutes.
ECU promptly elevated their intensity in pursuit of an equaliser and Kenny Lowe’s side were back on terms in the 26th minute, courtesy of an Andy Higgins wonder strike.
Higgins, fresh from scoring in Saturday’s win over Sorrento, struck a vicious left-foot shot from 25 yards out to send the home supporters into delirium.
ECU almost took the lead on 42 minutes when Ethan Brooks’ shot was cleared off the line by Perth keeper Ryan Montgomery, who had only been able to deflect the strike at the first attempt.
Despite dominating possession for large periods after half-time, ECU were unable to penetrate the Perth defence as the weather continued to make life difficult for both sides.
However, the game was turned on its head just prior to half-time in extra-time as 2019 NPL WA Golden Boot winner Domfeh produced a moment of pure quality.
After collecting a Jordan De Leo throw-in, Domfeh turned, chipped the ball over defender Shane Cassidy and rifled home a vicious volley which left ECU keeper Johnny Perkins with no chance.
Morgan then wrapped up Perth’s place in the final with a stunning right-footed strike in the 113th minute, a goal he celebrated by dancing with supporters in the crowd.
Perth SC, who defeated Perth Glory to win the 2018 NPL WA final before claiming victory over Inglewood United in last year’s decider, will look to make it a hat-trick on their home Dorrien Gardens pitch against Floreat Athena on Sunday.
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