Goalkeeper's Howler Sparks A-League Rout as Auckland FC Crush Wellington 5-0
A comical own goal from goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi has propelled Auckland FC within striking distance of the top spot in the A-League Men table, following a devastating 5-0 derby victory over Wellington Phoenix on Saturday. The match, held at Sky Stadium in Wellington, will be remembered for Oluwayemi's 24th-minute blunder, which set the tone for a first-half implosion and ultimately led to his substitution at half-time.
Oluwayemi's Costly Mistake
In a moment destined for goalkeeper gaffe compilations, Oluwayemi completely misjudged a clearance from teammate Jake Girdwood-Reich. Approximately 75 metres out from Wellington's goal, Girdwood-Reich sent the ball downfield, catching Oluwayemi well outside his box. Whether influenced by wind or a lapse in judgment, the keeper failed to read the flight of the ball, forcing him to backpedal before inadvertently heading it into his own net. This error not only handed Auckland an early lead but also shattered Wellington's defensive composure.
First-Half Collapse and Substitution
Oluwayemi's howler acted as a catalyst for a rapid collapse. Despite Auckland managing only three shots on target in the first half, they capitalized on Wellington's disarray to surge to a 4-0 lead by the break. Guillermo May added a well-taken finish in the 41st minute, while Jesse Randall scored a double, with his second goal—a clever chip over a stranded Oluwayemi—sealing the goalkeeper's fate. Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano responded by substituting Oluwayemi at half-time, bringing on Alby Kelly-Heald in an attempt to restore stability.
Auckland's Dominance and Table Implications
The change initially brought a semblance of calm to Wellington, but Auckland continued their dominance with Lachlan Brook netting his eighth goal of the season in the 74th minute to complete the 5-0 rout. This victory marks Auckland's sixth consecutive win in derby meetings, underscoring their superiority in New Zealand football rivalries. Under Steve Corica's leadership, Auckland remain second in the table, with this sizeable win cutting the gap to first-placed Newcastle to just one point, pending Newcastle's match against Macarthur on Sunday.
Wellington's Struggles Continue
In contrast, Wellington's woes deepen as they drop to 10th place, having secured only one win in their last six games under Italiano. The team's defensive frailties were glaringly exposed, raising questions about their ability to compete at the top level this season. The match highlights the fine margins in professional football, where a single error can unravel an entire performance and have significant repercussions in the league standings.
