Macarthur, Western United fight out 0-0 stalemate
Justin Chadwick |
Macarthur goalkeeper Filip Kurto has produced a series of strong saves to ensure his team escaped with a 0-0 A-League Men draw against Western United at Ironbark Fields.
Western United created the better chances in Saturday’s match, but the wild wind and some sharp goalkeeping from Kurto meant they couldn’t find a way through.
The result means Macarthur (eight points from seven games) and Western United (six points from seven games) remain outside the top six.
But the stalemate at least marked the first clean sheet for both clubs this season.
Western United coach John Aloisi lashed his team’s lack of fight following last week’s 3-1 loss to Melbourne Victory, but he made just two changes to his starting line-up, bringing in Dylan Leonard and Abel Walatee.
Walatee limped off in the 61st minute with what looked like a leg injury.
Macarthur were also looking to atone after being held to a 4-4 draw against lowly Brisbane last week.
The strong breeze caused havoc in the first half, but both teams still had good chances to break the deadlock.
Western United speedster Walatee produced a magical pass across the face of goal in the 14th minute, but Riku Danzaki’s shot with his outstretched leg was well saved by Kurto.
Macarthur defender Kealey Adamson unleashed an audacious rocket from long range in the 28th minute that looked destined for the top corner, only for gloveman Matt Sutton to pull off a stunning diving save.
Western United created the better chances for the remainder of the half, but they lacked polish and power when it came to the finishing touch, with Kurto proving impassable in goal.
The second half was largely dominated by Western United as they launched attack after attack with the aid of the strong breeze.
Western United substitute Matthew Grimaldi rolled a shot just wide of the target following a great run.
And it was Kurto to the rescue again in the 82nd minute to deny Jake Najdovski’s close-range header.
Kurto’s performance in goal ended up being the difference between a draw and a loss for Macarthur, with Western United leading the shot count 21-9.
AAP
