Auckland United have claimed their second Kate Sheppard Cup in three years, defeating holders Western Springs 1-0 with a late goal from Charlotte Roche in the 90th minute.

The victory marks United's third trophy of the season, having already won the OFC Women’s Champions League and Lotto NRFL Women’s Premiership in 2024.

United entered the game as favourites after an undefeated league campaign, finishing with 59 points—nearly double fourth-placed Western Springs, who had 30 points—and with three narrow wins over them.

The game began with Auckland United in control but struggling to break down a strong Springs defence, mirroring their league encounters this season.

The best chance of the first half fell to United’s Charlotte Roche early in the game, but her close-range effort went just over the bar.

Level at the break, United continued to push for the opening goal in the second half, with another big chance falling to Roche after being played through by Rene Wasi, but her shot went wide in the 53rd minute.

As the game looked set to go to extra time and with 11 minutes of added time announced due to a long injury delay for Western Springs’ Megan Lee, Auckland United finally made the breakthrough.

After two close efforts, a rocket from Roche from outside the box broke the deadlock.

 

Moments later, Western Springs thought they had equalised, but Liz Savage’s close-range finish was ruled out for a foul.

As the final whistle approached, Springs had another brilliant chance to take the game to extra time but hit the frame of the goal twice in quick succession without finding the back of the net.

Auckland United secured the win, with goalscorer Charlotte Roche also named the Maia Jackman Trophy winner for player of the match.

FT

Western Springs – 0
Auckland United – 1 (90’ Charlotte Roche)

Article added: Saturday 07 September 2024