Western United was defeated 3-0 by Perth Glory on Wednesday night at HBF Park.
The line-up
United was boosted by the return of Alessandro Diamanti to the starting line-up.
Steven Lustica joined him in the eleven for his first start since the club’s 2-0 win over Newcastle in late April.
Diamanti and Lustica return to the starting XI 👊
Tonight's line-up, brought to you by @SimondsHomes #PERvWUN #RiseUp #WUFC
— Western United FC (@wufcofficial) May 12, 2021
The match
Perth took an early lead at HBF Park via a stunning Bruno Fornaroli free-kick.
The Uruguayan picked out the top corner from his deal ball, giving United keeper Ryan Scott little chance of keeping it out.
United looked to find an equaliser through a couple of Alessandro Diamanti free-kicks, both of which were saved by Glory keeper Liam Reddy.
Perth punished United for a second time shortly after, doubling their lead through Chris Ikonomidis.
A looping ball over the top was met by Joshua Rawlins who played the ball across goal to Ikonomidis before the Glory winger finished past Scott at the near post.
United looked a different side to start the second half, creating multiple opportunities as they tried to find a way back into the game.
Dylan Pierias was busy on the right-hand side, playing a part in most of United’s attacks. The 21-year-old cut the ball back to Diamanti who fired his shot wide.
Moments later, Pierias picked out Berisha who lost his bearings inside the penalty area and couldn’t get a shot away.
Despite a lack of chances in the second half, it was Perth who found the back of the net next.
Joel Chianese played a one-two with Carlo Armiento before curling the ball into the bottom right corner.
It was a better display in the second half from United but they walked away empty-handed.
Full-time
Perth Glory 3 (Fornaroli 10’, Ikonomidis 22’, Chianese 77’)
Western United 0
Next match
After four consecutive away matches, United will return home to Victoria for Saturday’s clash with Sydney FC at Mars Stadium, Ballarat. Kick-off is 2:35pm.
