Sydney FC set up A-league grand final clash with Auckland FC after dramatic shootout win

NEW LAMBTON: Sydney FC booked their place in the A-League Grand Final after defeating Newcastle Jets 4-2 on penalties in a tense semi-final second leg on Saturday.

The match at McDonald Jones Stadium ended 1-1 after regular time, leaving the tie level at 2-2 on aggregate following the first leg.

Sydney goalkeeper Harrison Devenish-Meares emerged as the hero in the shootout after saving Xavier Bertoncello’s penalty before Ben Garuccio converted the decisive spot-kick to silence the sold-out home crowd.

Coached by Patrick Kisnorbo, Sydney FC will now travel to face Auckland FC in the Grand Final as they chase a record-extending sixth A-League title.

Newcastle’s defeat ended their hopes of completing Australian football’s “triple crown” after already winning the Australian Cup and the Premier’s Plate for finishing top of the regular-season standings.