Paranormal passion at Pirtek prevails perfectly

The newly renamed Pirtek Stadium at Parramatta was a mantle of red and black as far as the eye could see for the opening game of the home season for the Western Sydney Wanderers as they took on the visitors from across the Tasman. 

Perched high up in the grandstand was Football Federation Australia royalty. Frank Lowy, David Gallop and Luke Casserly all observed proudly from a box just to the right of halfway, a show of pride and gratitude to the Wanderers and their supporters for their contribution to the success of the A-League over the past 12 months.

The game itself against Wellington Phoenix was an entertaining one. The Wanderers were all over the Phoenix in the first half, much to the delight of the 16000+ spectators in attendance and it was Jerome Polenz who broke the deadlock at the quarter hour.

A poorly cleared corner was met with such ferocity by Polenz that Glen Moss was unable to hold on to the ball as it slid into the net.

However, after the break Wellington Phoenix came out with a single strategy; throw the kitchen sink at ‘em. And it worked.

Not only did the New Zealand team equalise through Jeremy Brockie but they could well have gone further ahead thanks to a myriad of close chances that were well saved by Ante Covic. The best was a one-handed effort to prevent a glorious strike from Vince Lia sneaking in under the crossbar.

Late in the game referee Jared Gillett failed to award two potential penalties to the Wanderers. They were both the proverbial “50/50 chances” and, given such a probability, it is fair to say that the Wanderers could have expected at least one. Brendon Santalab was the player who went to ground on both occasions under challenges from Andrew Durante.

The home fans twice made their feelings clear especially after viewing the replay on the big screen. Such was the outrage that it was probably best the second penalty claim was replayed only once – perhaps stadium officials realised that any further viewing may simply be adding fuel to the fire.

Now that the dust has settled on the game it’s probably best to focus on what was once again the story of the day; the Wanderers’ incredible supporters.

They chanted, they sang, they protested, they jumped in unison and they created another memorable atmosphere.

Wellington Phoenix games normally attract only a modicum of interest outside of New Zealand and traditionally crowds stay away when they are in town. Sydney FC recorded their record low against the New Zealand based outfit only a few seasons ago.

But not at Parramatta. It could be a game against Wellington, Wauchope or Wilcannia, but if it’s an A-League match expect the Wanderers supporters to turn up in droves – they simply know no other way and for this we at The Football Sack (with the possible exception of known Wanderers critic Matt Greenlaw) dip our hats to them.

The onlooking FFA officials are right, they truly are a credit to the game of football in Australia. 

Words by Joe Russo.