Newcastle Jets vs Perth Glory Match Recap - Nov 23, 2025

Perth Glory Stuns Newcastle Jets with Late Penalty to Secure First Win of the Season

Perth Glory's 2-1 victory over Newcastle Jets marks a significant turning point for a team that had struggled to find its footing this season. After four matches without a win, Perth finally broke through, showcasing resilience and tactical discipline that had been absent in previous outings. This result not only lifts them off the bottom of the table but also injects much-needed confidence into a squad that has faced mounting pressure.

Tom Lawrence emerged as the hero for Perth, scoring the equalizer just before halftime and setting the stage for Nicholas Pennington to convert a penalty in the 79th minute. Lawrence's performance was a stark contrast to his earlier games, where he had been largely ineffective. His ability to find space and capitalize on opportunities was crucial in turning the tide for Perth, who had previously struggled to convert possession into goals.

Newcastle Jets, despite taking an early lead through Xavier Bertoncello, failed to maintain their momentum. The Jets have shown flashes of brilliance this season, notably their 5-2 victory over Melbourne Victory, but inconsistency has plagued them since. Their inability to build on an early advantage against Perth reflects deeper issues within the squad, particularly in their attacking third. The Jets dominated possession but lacked the clinical edge needed to convert chances into goals, a recurring theme in their recent matches.

Defensively, Newcastle's vulnerabilities were exposed once again. After conceding four goals to Sydney FC in their last match, they seemed unable to tighten up at the back against Perth. The Jets' high-pressing game often leaves them susceptible to counterattacks, and this was evident when Lawrence found space to score. The defensive lapses that have characterized Newcastle's season continued to haunt them, leading to another disappointing result.

Perth's tactical approach under coach David Allen Zdrilić paid dividends. The 4-4-2 formation allowed them to absorb pressure while remaining dangerous on the break. Their midfielders, particularly Rhys Bozinovski and Callum Timmins, played pivotal roles in transitioning from defense to attack, creating opportunities that had been lacking in previous matches. This newfound balance between defense and attack could signal a turning point for Perth as they look to build on this victory.

The penalty awarded to Perth was a moment of controversy but ultimately showcased their determination to seize the moment. Pennington's successful conversion not only secured the win but also highlighted the importance of set pieces in tight matches. Both teams had struggled with penalties earlier in the season, but Perth's ability to capitalize when it mattered most could be a defining factor as they aim to climb the standings.

Newcastle's recent form has been troubling, with only one win in their last five matches. The Jets have shown potential but have consistently failed to deliver when it counts. Their upcoming match against Auckland will be critical; they must find a way to regain their confidence and convert possession into points. The pressure is mounting on coach Mark Milligan as he seeks solutions to his team's ongoing struggles.

Perth Glory's victory not only boosts their morale but also provides a blueprint for future success. If they can maintain this level of performance and continue to build chemistry among their players, they could quickly rise from the lower half of the table. The combination of Lawrence's resurgence and Pennington's reliability from the spot could be key as they face Macarthur next.

The contrasting narratives of these two teams highlight the unpredictable nature of football. Newcastle Jets, once seen as potential contenders after their early-season success, now face an uphill battle for survival. Meanwhile, Perth Glory's first win could be the catalyst they need to turn their season around. As both teams prepare for their next fixtures, the stakes have never been higher; each match will be crucial in determining their respective fates in this A-League campaign.