Canberra United Secure Thrilling 2-1 Comeback Win Over Western United

Photo Credit: Canberra United FC

Canberra United delighted a packed McKellar Park crowd with a spirited 2-1 comeback

victory against Western United in Round 11 of the Ninja A-League Women’s season. Goals

from Michelle Heyman and Sofia Christopherson secured the home side’s first win over

Western United at McKellar and propelled them into the top six.

Western United started brightly, with Catherine Zimmerman opening the scoring in the 15th minute. Chloe Logarzo’s precision pass found Catherine Zimmerman in the box, who

skillfully turned her marker and fired the ball high into the net. Canberra responded swiftly

and decisively. Michelle Heyman, ever a threat, capitalized on a lofted ball from Emma

Robers to equalize in the 21st minute. While Michelle Heyman’s shot wasn’t clean, it

deflected off Western defender Claudia Mihocic and rolled into the net for an own goal. The

remainder of the first half saw Canberra United dominate possession, with their midfield

effectively controlling the tempo. Western United, on the other hand, seemed content to sit

deep and defend, allowing Canberra United to dictate play.

Canberra carried their momentum into the second half, taking the lead in the 50th minute.

Sofia Christopherson, unmarked on the left, cut inside and unleashed a stunning curling

effort that sailed past the goalkeeper and into the top corner. The goal sparked Western into action, and they began pressing forward with greater urgency. Chloe Logarzo and Catherine Zimmerman led the charge, creating several opportunities, but Canberra United’s defence, anchored by Liz Anton, stood firm. Western’s best chance came late in stoppage time, with Aimee Medwin firing over the bar following a well-placed corner from Grace Maher. Despite their efforts, the visitors couldn’t find an equalizer.

For Canberra United, Michelle Heyman showcased her class with a pivotal role in the

equalizer, while Sofia Christopherson’s strike was a highlight of the match. Liz Anton was

instrumental in the defensive third, repeatedly thwarting Western United advances. Western

United’s Catherine Zimmerman continued to impress with her composed finish for the

opener, while Chloe Logarzo’s creativity was a constant threat. However, their inability to

convert late chances ultimately cost them.

Canberra head coach Antoni Jagarinec praised his team’s resilience in a post-match interview:

“The girls showed incredible character to come from behind. Our midfield really took control, and Sofia’s goal was just outstanding.”

Kat Smith, Western United’s coach, acknowledged the team’s missed opportunities also in a post-match interview: “We started well but let the game slip in the second half. We’ll take the lessons from this and move forward.”

The victory marked Canberra’s first home win since Round 1 and solidified their place in the

top six. Meanwhile, Western United, despite a promising start, remained outside the finals

spots and will need to regroup to keep their playoff hopes alive. With both teams eyeing

strong finishes to the season, this thrilling encounter showcased the quality and

competitiveness of the league.