Perth Glory and Newcastle Jets each claimed a point after playing out a 0-0 draw in an entertaining Westfield W-League match at Ashfield Sports Park on Saturday.
Both teams were missing key players, including Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord and Tara Andrews, on international duty and it showed as neither side was able to find the back of the net.
Opposing goalkeepers Gabby Dal Busco and Hannah Southwell pulled off some spectacular and important saves at crucial stages of the match to ensure their respective sides walked away with a point from the enthralling contest.
Glory winger Carla Bennett had the best chance of the first half, with her cross from the right almost catching out Southwell off her line.
Former Western Sydney striker Jenna Kingsley, who combined well with the dangerous Rhali Dobson in Newcastle’s front half, forced Dal Busco to make a diving save to her left on the cusp of half-time.
Ella Mastrantonio attempted to break the deadlock with a long-range attempt shortly after the break, but the Glory midfielder’s powerful strike sailed over the crossbar.
Minutes later Jets recruit Chloe Logarzo pushed a free kick agonisingly wide of the far post.
American import Nikki Stanton made an impressive debut for Glory and received plenty of support from defenders Sarah Carroll, Katie Holtham and stand-in captain Kim Carroll.
Glory remains undefeated after two rounds and will now turn its attention to hosting new Westfield W-League club Melbourne City at Ashfield Sports Park next Saturday.
The Jets were happy to claim a point from their opening match of the season and will take that confidence into next Saturday’s match against Melbourne Victory at Broadmeadows Valley Park.
