Match Report: Wallsend 4 – 2 Newcastle Croatia

Match Overview

Wallsend emerged victorious in a thrilling local derby against Newcastle Croatia, winning 4-2 in the Australia Northern New South Wales State League 1 on June 7, 2026. The match featured end-to-end action and six goals, delighting the home crowd at Wallsend Oval.

First Half Fireworks

Both sides started with intent, and it was Wallsend who struck first in the 14th minute. A long throw-in caused chaos in the Newcastle Croatia box, and the ball fell to Tom Hayes, who smashed it home from close range. The lead lasted only eight minutes, as Newcastle Croatia hit back through a brilliant solo run by Marko Peric, who dribbled past three defenders before slotting home.

Wallsend regained the lead in the 35th minute. A corner was only partially cleared, and Daniel Roberts volleyed the ball into the roof of the net. The half ended 2-1, with Wallsend holding the edge.

Second Half: Wallsend Pull Away

Newcastle Croatia came out fighting and equalized again in the 52nd minute through a powerful header from Ivan Karacic from a free kick delivery. However, Wallsend showed great character. In the 68th minute, Liam Price scored with a magnificent curling effort from the edge of the box to make it 3-2. The home side sealed the win in the 82nd minute when substitute Joshua Kennedy latched onto a through ball and rounded the keeper to slot into an empty net.

Local Derby Atmosphere

The match was played in front of a vocal crowd of nearly 1,200 fans. Wallsend’s manager praised the team’s resilience: "Against a rival like Newcastle Croatia, you have to match their intensity. We did that and more." Newcastle Croatia’s coach acknowledged their defensive mistakes, noting that allowing four goals on the road is unacceptable.

Standings and Next Steps

The win propels Wallsend up to fourth place in the NNSW State League 1 table, while Newcastle Croatia drops to sixth. Both teams have their sights set on the promotion race, and this derby result gives Wallsend a psychological edge ahead of the return fixture later in the season.