Wagga City Wanderers have finished a tough state league campaign with a disappointing 3-2 loss to last-placed Gazy Auburn at Progress Park.
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Wanderers were flat-footed across the ground in the first-half and it cost them dearly as the hosts jumped out to a 3-0 lead at the break.
It wasn’t until Wagga import Alex Millour was sent off following his second yellow card that Wanderers showed signs of life, Chinedu Arinze and Antonio Vastano both finding the net within the final 15 minutes.
But Wanderers coach Ben Schmid said his side left their run far too late.
“If we played the whole match like we did the last 15 minutes, it would’ve been a very different story,” he said.
Schmid said that while it had been a disappointing season, there were plenty of positives going forward.
“We had the potential to finish with more wins that we did, we only saw quality football in patches and just couldn’t replicate it,” he said.
“But we have a lot of young guys and they’re maturing every year.
“Technically-speaking, they’re quality players, it’s just that their speed and strength isn’t quite there yet.
“One of the most important things for us will be fielding a first grade side which doesn’t rely on our younger guys.
“A more senior side in first grade would allow our young players to develop in the 20s and 18s and then come up when they’re ready.”
Wanderers finished equal on points with Gazy Auburn, goal difference the only thing keeping them out of the competition’s cellar.
It was a long season for the inexperienced side, finishing with two wins, one draw and 14 losses.
Wanderers lost both of their clashes with Gazy Auburn this season.