Ibusuki’s Double Powers Western to Victory Amid Leonard’s Historic Goal

Western’s Leonard Makes History Despite Late Red Card

At just 17 years and 192 days old, Dylan Leonard etched his name into Western’s history books as their youngest-ever goalscorer, eclipsing Oliver Lavale’s record set at 19 years and 16 days. Leonard’s equalizing goal in the second half sparked Western’s comeback, leading to a 3-1 victory over Perth Glory in the Unite Round clash at Allianz Stadium.

Leonard’s milestone was the highlight of a dramatic afternoon for Western, where Hiroshi Ibusuki stole the show with two match-winning goals. However, Leonard’s debut ended in disappointment as he received a red card in the 90th minute for a foul on Cristian Caicedo, denying Glory a late scoring opportunity.

First Half Frustrations for Western

The opening 45 minutes were a tale of missed chances for Western. The most notable opportunity fell to Noah Botic, who struck the crossbar twice within seconds. His initial volley from Tate Russell’s right-wing delivery was brilliantly deflected by Glory keeper Cameron Cook onto the woodwork. When the rebound fell back to Botic, his close-range header inexplicably hit the bar again, leaving commentators stunned.

“That’s harder to miss than to score,” remarked Network 10 co-commentator Phil Moss. “Perth dodged a massive bullet there.”

Leonard’s Dream Moment and Ibusuki’s Clinical Finishing

Perth Glory took the lead seven minutes into the second half when Adam Taggart’s precise pass found Trent Ostler, who finished a swift counter-attack. However, their lead was short-lived as Leonard stepped up with a composed strike in the 60th minute, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Western’s history.

Western capitalized on their momentum five minutes later, as Glory defender Luis Canga failed to clear a high ball, allowing Botic to set up Ibusuki. The Japanese forward made no mistake, slotting a low shot into the bottom-left corner to put Western ahead.

Ibusuki’s second goal came in the 75th minute with a touch of class. His deft feint inside the box left three Glory defenders stranded before he fired the ball past Cook at the near post, sealing a commanding victory for Western.

Late Drama and Leonard’s Exit

Leonard’s afternoon took a sour turn in the final moments. The young star was sent off after dragging down substitute Cristian Caicedo, denying Perth a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Despite the dismissal, Western held firm, earning a much-needed three points.

Unite Round Continues

The Unite Round action continues with exciting matchups at Allianz Stadium:

• Saturday, November 23
  • 5:00 PM: Brisbane Roar vs. Adelaide United
  • 7:35 PM: Sydney FC vs. Western Sydney Wanderers
• Sunday, November 24
  • 1:30 PM: Wellington Phoenix vs. Melbourne Victory
  • 4:00 PM: Macarthur FC vs. Auckland FC