An own goal from Ruby Marshall midway through the first half was the difference at E&D Litis Stadium. The unmarked Azzurri defender was looking to clear her lines but instead shanked a volley straight into her own net.
Balcatta’s 1-0 win was their third straight victory over the NPL champions and followed last week’s convincing success in the Construction Training Fund Women’s State Cup final.
As Balcatta prepare for next Saturday’s decider, Perth have a second chance in the qualifying final against Fremantle City back at neutral Litis Stadium on Tuesday (8pm).
If Azzurri are to secure a rematch with Etna, then Tom Glavovic’s side must find a way to arrest a slump that has seen them fail to win in six games, five of which have ended in defeat.
Fremantle extended their season with a 2-1 win over Perth RedStar at Hilton Park.
Alkira Mogridge put RedStar ahead on half-an-hour when she scored directly from a corner. But Fremantle turned it round after the break.
First, Tanika Lala squared for Leyna Wood to tap in the equaliser. Then after Lala had hit the post, RedStar’s defence switched off and Lacey Heys punished them with the winning goal.
The defeat leaves RedStar to reflect on a second straight season without a trophy.on without a trophy.
