WATCH: Newcastle Jets prevail over Victory in playoff penalty thriller
Newcastle Jets stamped their passport to the Australia Cup Final Rounds after an epic Australia Cup Playoff against Melbourne Victory in Darwin on Monday.
WATCH THE FULL MATCH HIGHLIGHTS IN THE PLAYER ABOVE!
Trent Buhagiar opened the scoring in the 18th minute, converting the first goal of Rob Stanton's reign at the club.
Exciting youngster Archie Goodwin was introduced at half time, and the Subway Young Socceroos' impact was immediately felt, as he found the back of the net on 70 minutes after a lovely touch and finish.
The Jets felt they were cruising to a comfortable victory before an insane late fightback by Tony Popovic's young side.
It was another half-time substitute in Nishan Velupillay who kicked it off, slotting home one back in the 92nd minute.
Then, in the fourth and final minute of injury time, Velupillay was brought down in the area by Ryan Scott, allowing William Wilson to step up from the spot and convert a late, late penalty to send the game to extra time.
In the added 30 minutes, the best chances fell to Newcastle, however both Buhagiar and substitute Daniel Wilmering were denied, to ensure the match would be settled in a shootout.
Both 'keepers made saves throughout the shootout, however in the end Victory's fairytale comeback wasn't to be as youngster Jordi Valadon skied his penalty over the bar and Philip Cancar held his nerve to send the Jets through to the Final Rounds.
Stanton's side have a home tie to look forward to in the Round of 32, as they are set to host Brisbane Roar on August 14.
The action in Darwin isn't over yet - with Perth Glory facing Cup holders Macarthur FC for the final spot in the Round of 32 on Tuesday night.
WATCH MONDAY'S FULL MATCH HIGHLIGHTS IN THE PLAYER ABOVE!
Australia Cup 2023 Playoffs
Tuesday, 18 July 2023
Perth Glory FC vs Macarthur FC
Kick-off: 7.00pm local / 7.30pm AEST
Venue: Darwin Football Stadium at Larrakia Park
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Ticketing Details
Tickets for each match of the Australia Cup 2023 Final Rounds Playoffs are $15 Adults, $10 Concession* and $40 Family
*Concession Card Holders, Senior Card Holders, Students
**Children 3 years and under free unless occupying a seat
Australia Cup 2023 Final Rounds Playoffs Proudly supported by:
H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel & H on Smith Hotel - the official accommodation partners of the Australia Cup 2023 Playoffs
Thrifty Car and Truck Rental Darwin - the official vehicle partner of the Australia Cup 2023 Playoffs
NT Major Events Company - Supporting a diverse range of events that represent our unique character and Territory culture. ntmajorevents.com.au
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