MetroStars Through To Prelim Final

North Eastern MetroStars advanced to the Preliminary Finals of the National Premier League – SA Finals Series after a late 1-0 victory over Adelaide United today at TK Shutter Reserve.

Substitute Matthew Dawber scored with a header in the 93rd minute after a cross from Anthony Solagna to secure the victory.

MetroStars now face Adelaide City at Oakden next Saturday for the right to meet Campbelltown City in the Grand Final.

Carlo Armiento should have given United the lead inside the opening few minutes, but his shot hit the wrong side of the goals.

The first half provided a number of chances as both teams played attacking football to try and give their side the leading edge.

Liam Wooding’s free kick on the half hour mark, saw his shot well held by United keeper Isaac Richards.

Just before half time, Tom Strain popped up with a close range shot which was blocked by Richards.

MetroStars defensive trio Lachlan Barr, Michael D’Aloisio and Tim Henderson were holding well despite a number of chances by the pacey United attacking front.

Kusini Yengi went close to scoring for United after 65 minutes, when Armiento’s cross found him free, but his header went wide of the goals.

Moments later, Wooding’s attempt from long range was well saved by Richards.

But it was Solagna’s cross after beating his defender, who made the decisive play that found Dawber inside the box and headed into the back of the net.

MetroStars 1 (Dawber 93')

Adelaide United 0