A double to Kelli Brown has allowed Newcastle to stun Adelaide United at home… and keep the Jets’ slim play-off hopes alive in the process.
Despite missing talented youngsters Emma Dundas, Alexis Collins, Georgia Ritchie and India Breier for the clash, Stephen Hoyle’s A-League Women’s (ALW) outfit knocked over the fourth-placed Reds 3-1 at ServiceFM Stadium on Saturday 28 March.
The quartet was this week selected in the Young Matildas squad for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup Thailand 2026, with matches against Chinese Taipei (2 April), India (5 April) and Japan (8 April).
Their absences opened the door for other Newcastle players to shine, including local goalkeeper Ally Boertje.
And, the Warners Bay and New Lambton junior impressed on debut.
For Brown, however, it was her first ALW brace, while Josie Allan snared the other goal.
“It was definitely the performance we needed [today],” the New Zealand striker said.
“I’m really grateful to get out there and have a go.
“But, I think the girls played well, so I was stoked to be a part of it.
“We knew a win was required.
“Obviously, we were gutted we couldn’t carry on and make the top six from last week.
“However, we still have a point to prove as a team and individually.
“So, to go out there and perform like we did was very important for us.”
The Jets began the stronger of the two combatants but couldn’t capitalise.
Then, in the 23rd minute, Allan sent a beautiful ball through to Brown who converted for a 1-0 lead.
Newcastle had a terrific chance to extend its advantage.
But, Adelaide goalie Claudia Jenkins pulled off a remarkable triple save to deny the visitors.
In the 41st minute, an Isabel Hodgson header levelled the scores 1-all, which remained until the break.
That was soon rectified in the 55th when a brilliant individual run from Sophie Hoban set up the easiest of goals for Allan.
Brown could have put the issue beyond doubt in the 80th, however she missed a sitter.
She then made amends almost immediately after nailing a terrific shot to seal the deal 3-1.
The Jets, just three points outside the top six, now face competition pacesetters Melbourne City in the final round at the Maitland Sportsground on Sunday 5 April.
Even if they prevail, they also require a couple of results to fall their way.
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