With their victories over the weekend, both Sydney FC and Brisbane Roar qualified for the W-League semifinals. Sydney FC, the 2010 W-League champions, beat Canberra United, 3-0, this weekend, getting two own goals and a goal from Kyah Simon. Brisbane Roar played to a scoreless draw with the Newcastle Jets. Newcastle keeper Allison Lipsher picked up the shutout in goal, and prevented the Roar from winning the Premiership.
Both teams had a number of chances, the two best came early in the game. Newcastle’s Niki Cross knocked a header over the crossbar in the eighth minute. Later in the first half, Lisa De Vanna beat Lipsher, but her shot hit the post.
The playoff picture looks like this: Canberra United and Perth Glory meet Saturday, and either team can qualify for the playoffs with a win. The Melbourne Victory play last-place Adelaide United (0-9 record, four goals scored, 34 goals allowed). Perth Glory, who are one point ahead of Melbourne in the table, can get into the playoffs if they beat Canberra. If Perth Glory loses and Melbourne wins, than Melbourne and Canberra make the playoffs.
The semifinals take place the first weekend in February. On Saturday, Feb. 5, Brisbane Roar host a team to be determined at TBC Ballymore Stadium. On Sunday, Feb. 6, Sydney FC host a team to be determined at TBC Campbelltown Stadium. If both Brisbane and Sydney FC win their semifinal matches, they will meet in the W-League Grand Final for the second year in a row. Last year, Sydney FC won the Grand Final with a 3-2 victory over the Roar.