Auckland FC secured a crucial away win over Western United with two goals in as many minutes just before halftime on a blustery afternoon.
Guillermo May broke the deadlock in the 45th minute with a stunning 30-yard strike into the bottom right corner, marking his fifth goal of the season.
Moments later, Moreno’s relentless pressing forced a defensive error, allowing him to set up Mata for a simple finish. Despite Western United dominating possession in the second half, Auckland’s rock-solid defense once again proved why it is the league’s best.
Head Coach Steve Corica made a series of second-half changes, including a triple substitution, but the visitors remained resolute. The windy conditions played a role, with goal kicks swinging unpredictably, yet Auckland held firm to go five points clear at the top ahead of next Saturday’s home derby.
