Werribee City is officially out of its form slump after knocking off second-placed Moreland Zebras in National Premier League 2 on Saturday.
After breaking through for their first win in six weeks in the previous round, the Bees showed that result was no flash in the pan by coming from behind to register the important 2-1 win over the Zebras.
It was a performance that left coach Sergio Sabbadini satisfied with a winning plan.
“We had the win the week before so we kept the same game plan,” he said. “We played well to get the result we wanted.
“We set up to beat them on the counter attack and they fell for the trap and left themselves a bit exposed at the back – so that all worked out quite well.”
The match started as most pundits expected, the high-flying Zebras grabbing the lead when Amir Osmancevic jumped on a loose ball in the box to beat the keeper and open scoring in the ninth minute.
Werribee City replied immediately, with Domenico Marafioti slotting a calm penalty after the Zebras brought down an attacker in the box straight after the re-start.
Scores remained locked until the break, and while the Zebras had some good chances to restore their lead it was the Bees who scored next, Marafioti volleying home from close range to give the visitors their first lead of the game after an hour of play.
Luke Gavalas was kept busy in the Bees’ goal in the final half hour as the Zebras pushed hard for an equaliser, but the hosts couldn’t find an opening as they fell to their second loss of the season.
Sabbadini said it was good to see his players get their season back on track in recent weeks.
“I think the guys realised that the season would be over if we didn’t start winning soon,” Sabbadini said.
“I think they played with a bit more freedom this week after a win the week before, so hopefully they keep that momentum going.
“I think if we play like we did this week and last week, we’re not afraid of anybody – we just need to bring that sort of form with us and we can beat anyone.”
Werribee City will return to its home pitch this weekend to host Ballarat City.
