Kantarovski challenge could have ended horribly, Smeltz’s did
Newcastle Jet Ben Kantarovski was lucky to be shown just a yellow card after he clashed with Sydney speedster Chris Naumoff. Kantarovski lunged in late on Naumoff in a two footed, studs up challenge that on another day may have resulted in a red card and had the potential to seriously injure Naumoff. Mark Birighitti was not as lucky, as Shane Smeltz’ attempt to latch on to the ball in the penalty area saw him collect Birighitti in the face, leaving him bloodied and knocking out his front teeth. Jets manager Scott Miller and Fox Sports pundit Mark Bosnich both scolded Smeltz’s challenge. Though the Kiwi insists he was playing the ball, perhaps greater protection must be given to goalkeepers and whilst Smeltz was not carded for his misdemeanour, he may face disciplinary action later in the week.
Birighitti loss proves costly
In a game where the Jets gave their rivals 60% possession and failed to register a shot on target, the side from the Hunter was indebted to Birighitti’s shot stopping exploits. Birighitti produced a string of saves and for all of Sydney’s pressure they could not find a way past the in-form keeper. However after Birighitti’s nasty injury forced him off, Sydney’s efforts were rewarded as Alex Brosque’s near post header found its way past substitute stopper Ben Kennedy despite the veteran getting a hand to the ball. Though Sydney deserved the three points for their efforts, Scott Miller will be bitterly disappointed his side could not hold out for a point and one must wonder if Birighitti would have saved Brosque’s header.
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