Adelaide United Completes Thrilling Comeback to Edge Western United 2-1

Adelaide United demonstrated their resilience, overcoming an early setback to defeat Western United 2-1 and extend their unbeaten start to the Isuzu UTE A-League season. Zach Clough’s decisive goal in the 71st minute completed the comeback, overturning Kane Vidmar’s opener and sealing Adelaide’s second win of the season in a match that was not without its share of controversy.

The turning point of the game arrived with Clough’s composed strike, following a well-executed setup from substitutes Ben Folami and Jonny Yull. The Reds’ persistence paid off, maintaining their unbeaten streak and positioning them strongly in the early standings.

Controversial VAR Call Leaves Western United Frustrated

The match saw a critical VAR review in the 59th minute after Western United substitute Abel Walatee appeared to be brought down while positioning for Riku Danzaki’s cross. Despite visible appeals from the Western United players and their head coach John Aloisi, the referee denied the penalty, much to the frustration of the visiting squad and fans alike.

“It’s a penalty, it’s got to be a penalty surely,” remarked Paramount+ co-commentator Andy Harper. “There’s not even any contact with the ball.” Robbie Thomson, Harper’s co-commentator, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the intensity of the missed call.

Adelaide’s Youth Impresses as Vidmar Scores First A-League Goal

Western United started strong, with 20-year-old Kane Vidmar – son of Australian Under-23 head coach Tony Vidmar – netting his first A-League goal in the 10th minute. Vidmar’s early goal provided an initial advantage for Western United, who fielded a notably young lineup, with Hiroshi Ibusuki as the only player over 24. Vidmar celebrated in style, acknowledging his father, who was in attendance just hours after summoning Kane to this month’s Under-23 training camp.

Adelaide, however, regrouped and pushed forward with intensity. By the 32nd minute, their persistence was rewarded as a defensive miscue led to a Dylan Leonard own goal, leveling the score just before halftime. Following a brief VAR review, the goal was confirmed, restoring Adelaide’s momentum heading into the break.

Goalkeeper Heroics and a Tense Final Stretch

The second half saw a series of dramatic plays, including a heart-stopping sequence for Adelaide’s defense. Western’s Danzaki had a well-positioned volley saved by Adelaide goalkeeper James Delianov, who exhibited composure under pressure. Later, in a standout defensive effort, Adelaide thwarted Western’s attempts to regain the lead, with Delianov’s impressive saves showcasing his reliability in crucial moments.

Clough’s 71st-minute goal, a well-placed strike beneath Western keeper Matt Sutton, ultimately sealed the game for Adelaide. Sutton continued to impress, notably denying a header from debutant Bart Vriends, but Western was unable to reclaim the lead as Adelaide held firm until the final whistle.

As the A-League season unfolds, Adelaide United heads into the international break with confidence, boasting two wins and a draw from three matches. Meanwhile, Western United, despite showing early promise, has yet to secure their first victory.

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