Coach Jonovski's 50th birthday gift: grand final penalty shootout win
Wollongong United reached the grand final with a 3-1 penalty shootout win on coach Rob Jonovski's 50th birthday.
Wollongong United progressed to the Premier League 1 grand final with a dramatic penalty shootout win at Wetherall Park on Sunday. The match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes and stayed tied after 30 minutes of extra time.
Tom Alston made two brilliant penalty saves to win the shootout. Jordan Nikolovski gave United an early lead in the 40th minute.
Kyle Jackson tied it for Olympic in the 80th minute. Coach Rob Jonovski turned 50 on the day of the victory.
United last won the grand final in 2020 and last played in one in 2024. Olympic's bid for a third trophy this season ended with the loss.
- 3 to 1
- Shootout result
- Two
- Penalty saves by Alston
- 50
- Jonovski's age
- Wetherall Park
- Venue
Why it mattersA penalty shootout win at 50 for Jonovski means United has another chance at the premiership after losing on penalties at this stage last year.
AustraliaWollongong United return to a grand final they last won in 2020, giving the club a shot at the Premier League 1 title.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 d ago
