Semi-Finals Review – NPL Women’s NSW

The semi-finals of the National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW competition saw both APIA Leichhardt FC and Macarthur Rams rekindle its rivalry with the two powerful clubs securing their spots in this Saturday’s 2024 Grand Final to be held at CommBank Stadium 

Have a read of our full breakdown below.

APIA Leichhardt 1 v Illawarra Stingrays 0 @ Lambert Park

APIA Leichhardt successfully overcame a determined Illawarra Stingrays outfit 1-0 on Saturday evening to reach their first-ever NPL Women’s First Grade Grand Final in front of the Lambert Park faithful.

With both sides arriving at this semi-final after a long season of fighting for a spot in the top four, the match was destined to be a closely-fought encounter.

APIA coach Brad Attard would have wanted to see his side go one better than last year when they were defeated at this stage by 2023’s surprise package Bulls FC Academy despite winning the Premiership.

The home team were able to see out the match after taking an early lead via an ‘Olimpico’ from Charlotte Lancaster, with Ashlie Crofts’ timely return from injury giving her side a boost. The visitors crafted plenty of chances of their own and often dominated the match, even without suspended midfield maestro Hayley Taylor-Young but were unable to break down a resolute APIA defence.

Macarthur Rams 2 v Sydney Olympic 0 @ Lynwood Park

The Macarthur Rams secured their place in their third straight NPL Women’s NSW Grand Final, defeating Sydney Olympic on Sunday night at Lynwood Park.

Miku Sunaga scored the opening goal in the final moments of the first half, while the veteran Tenealle Hay settled it all late in the game.

The victory sent the home side to the Grand Final where APIA Leichhardt lie waiting for the Rams at CommBank Stadium on Saturday at 2pm.