Newcastle Jets secured a 2‑1 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers in the Round 13 A‑League clash at CommBank Stadium on 17 January 2026. The win lifts the Jets to seventh place, tightening the race for a playoff berth, while the Wanderers slip further toward the relegation zone, intensifying their fight for survival.
Match Summary
Western Sydney opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Tom Shaughnessy capitalised on a defensive lapse to beat goalkeeper Jack Jones. Newcastle responded before the half‑hour mark, with Liam Adams firing a low drive from the edge of the box in the 38th minute to level the match. The Jets took the lead in the 83rd minute as winger Jacob Lual finished a swift counter‑attack, and they held on for a 2‑1 win.
Season Implications
The three points move Newcastle Jets to 7th place, bringing them within striking distance of the playoff cut‑off. The team has now recorded four wins in their last seven matches, reinforcing their reputation as a stable mid‑table contender. In contrast, Western Sydney Wanderers fall to 12th place after four defeats in six games, deepening concerns about their relegation‑avoidance battle.
Tactical Takeaways
Newcastle’s success stemmed from a compact defensive shape and rapid transitions. Coach Tony Redmond’s high‑press in midfield forced errors that Liam Adams turned into the equaliser. The 4‑2‑3‑1 formation gave Jacob Lual space to make incisive runs on the flank, culminating in the match‑winning goal.
Western Sydney struggled to maintain possession after conceding. Their reliance on long balls left them vulnerable to Newcastle’s quick recovery, and the lack of a disciplined holding midfielder exposed them to sustained pressure.
Player Performances
- Tom Shaughnessy – Scored the opener but had limited influence afterward.
- Liam Adams – Earned man‑of‑the‑match for the equaliser and relentless work rate.
- Jacob Lual – Provided the decisive late winner, showcasing pace and composure.
Looking Ahead
Western Sydney’s next challenge is a crucial match against league leaders Melbourne Victory in Round 14, where a win could spark a revival. Newcastle will travel to Perth Glory, a fixture that offers a chance to break into the top six if they maintain their current momentum.
