After a 17-year wait, Auckland fans were treated to an exciting performance from their team. Captain Hiroki Sakai played a key role in the first goal, albeit with the help of an own goal from the opposition. Despite this, Sakai expressed his joy at the team’s performance and the incredible atmosphere at the stadium.
Brisbane captain Jay O’Shea commended the new team for their strong showing and predicted that they would be a valuable addition to the A-League. Auckland took the lead early on, thanks to a deflected own goal off Harry Van der Saag.
The second half saw more action, with Guillermo May and Logan Rogerson adding to Auckland’s tally. Rogerson’s goal in the 75th minute sealed the victory for the home side. Despite Brisbane’s efforts to turn the tide with substitutions, Auckland maintained their lead until the final whistle.
The match ended with Auckland FC emerging victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. This historic win marked Auckland’s return to the A-League in style, leaving fans eagerly anticipating more exciting performances from the new team.
A-League
Final Score
Auckland FC 2
Own goal 8’, Logan Rogerson 75’
Brisbane Roar 0
Halftime: Auckland 1-0.
By Jonty Dine
