A single goal proved enough for Canberra Olympic to make their way into the Federation Cup Semi-Finals, and a date with Belconnen United, at the expense of Gungahlin United in the Quarter Final clash played at the Australian Institute of Sport.
The pivotal moment of the cup tie arrived just before the hour mark as Olympic struck in almost apologetic fashion. A lively break from Nikita Perry ended with the winger cutting a composed ball back to Jane Vanzino some ten metres from the goal.
Vanzino set her sights and steered a shot at the target that lacked power and looked likely to be comfortably ensnared by Gunners’ goalkeeper Emily Pearce, only for Tatum Mazis to prove to be alert, sliding in to stab a boot out that pushed the ball past Pearce going the other way.
It was tough on Gungahlin who played some exceptional football and appear to be a well drilled outfit under the leadership of Marcial Munoz, stringing together a series of nice moves without being able to find a way past Jelena Josipovic in the Olympic goal, who was well-marshalled by her defensive unit.
In an even contest, Olympic started well and saw a potential penalty appeal waved away early on when Vanzino looked to have been caught by Pearce as she attempted to reach a low cross, but Gungahlin responded excellently and grew into the match as the half progressed.
After the Mazis goal in the 59th minute, the intensity raised and Olympic saw a second strike disallowed, Alyse Jensen denied as the officials spotted a foul before the midfielder turned the ball home.
Gungahlin introduced the speed of Bonnie Young, and her direct attacks were threatening, one fierce drive being well handled by Josipovic but, try as they might, the Gunners could not find the goal that would have forced the match into extra-time and bowed out, albeit with heads held high.
RESULT
FEDERATION CUP QUARTER FINAL
Wednesday 30 April
Canberra Olympic 1 (Mazis 59’) Gungahlin United 0
