Olympic, RedStar to represent WA on Australia Cup national stage

Football West News 1718242975,1718242975

Perth RedStar and Olympic Kingsway will represent Western Australia in the national Round of 32 of the Australia Cup after Wednesday night's two Round Seven games.

The teams will also meet in the final of the WA State Cup at the Sam Kerr Football Centre in September.

RedStar beat Sorrento FC 2-1 amid incredible scenes at Percy Doyle Reserve after Liam Reddy saved a penalty in stoppage-time of extra-time to prevent the Gulls from taking the tie to a penalty shoot-out.

The game was one-all at full-time, with Connor Simpson cancelling out the unfortunate Andrew Maranta's own goal. RedStar regained the lead in the second period of extra-time when Daryl Nicol latched on to a loose ball and netted via the post.

Then with time virtually up, Sorrento first hit the bar before being awarded a penalty for a foul on Keegan Chambers. Dario Ramella took the spot-kick but saw his shot saved by Reddy's foot to spark wild RedStar celebrations.

Perth RedStar players mob keeper Liam Reddy, second right, after his late, late penalty save. Photo by Perth RedStar/Robbie Anderson

In the other game, all the goals came in the opening quarter as Olympic defeated Perth SC, also 2-1.

Luke Hewings fired home at the second attempt to put Olympic in front before Gordon Perkins headed in a free-kick to level for the Azzurri. Kingsway were soon back in front through another headed goal from a set-piece, scored by Aryn Williams.

The NPLM leaders suffered after going back ahead when talisman Joe Knowles went off with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. But they continued to threaten and had chances to extend their advantage, notably when Joe Hobson sliced wide just before half-time.

There were fewer incidents after the break, with the excellent Williams and the rest of the Olympic defence limiting Perth to half chances.

The draw for the Australia Cup Round of 32 will take place next Wednesday at 5pm AWST on 10 Play, Australia Cup Facebook and Football Australia YouTube. The A-League teams now enter the competition, although Perth Glory still have to face Brisbane Roar at Darwin Football Stadium on 23 July with the winners going through.