Newcastle Croatia FC reached the final with a 3-2 away win over Wallsend FC in the NPL Northern New South Wales semifinal. They had to do it the hard way, coming from behind twice.
Wallsend went ahead inside nine minutes, and after Croatia levelled on the stroke of half-time, the hosts retook the lead on 53 minutes. The visitors equalised again on 64 and then completed the turnaround four minutes later, scoring twice in a decisive burst.
That quick double was the difference. Wallsend had twice held the lead but could not hold on, as Croatia's goals in the 64th and 68th minutes turned the tie in their favour.
