Sydney FC’s Pursuit of A-League Women Premier’s Plate Goes Down to the Wire as Canberra United Pulls Off Upset Win

Sydney FC’s bid for a fourth consecutive A-League Women Premier’s Plate has been extended to the last day of the regular season following a 1-0 loss to Canberra United. Michelle Heyman, a revered striker for United, secured the upset victory with a goal in the 56th minute, dashing Sydney’s hopes of a historic four-peat.

Had Sydney emerged victorious, they would have been four points clear at the top with one match remaining before the finals. However, they now sit just one point ahead as they prepare to face Melbourne Victory in their final regular-season match. The challenge of defeating Melbourne Victory appears significantly tougher compared to facing the 11th-placed Canberra United.

The defeat opens the door for second-placed Melbourne City, who will play Perth after Sydney FC’s upcoming match. Canberra United, currently facing uncertainties regarding their future due to escalating operational costs, demonstrated resilience in their final home game of the season.

Despite Sydney’s dominance in the first half with 11 shots to Canberra’s two, it was Heyman’s clinical finish that ultimately decided the match. The striker capitalized on a rebound from Sydney’s goalkeeper, Jada Whyman, following a shot by Vesna Milivojevic.

Although Cortnee Vine came close to scoring for Sydney with a well-placed effort saved by Canberra’s Chloe Lincoln in the first half, the team struggled to convert their chances. Heyman missed an opportunity to double United’s lead in stoppage time, hitting the post in a one-on-one situation.

Canberra United’s victory marked their second consecutive clean sheet after going 19 games without achieving one earlier in the season. As Sydney FC looks to bounce back from this setback in their pursuit of the league title, the competition at the top of the table remains intense with one round of fixtures left to play.