Debut Delight as Sharks Stun Rockdale on the Road

We’ve pulled off a huge upset on the road, downing rivals and league leaders Rockdale Ilinden 2-1 at their home ground in one of our biggest performances of the season.

With four mid-season signings making their Sharks debuts — Yianni Nicolaou, Tariq Maia, Leo Mazis, and Matty Jackson — the fresh energy was evident from the first whistle. And it didn’t take long for the breakthrough.

In the 27th minute, after a patient build-up, Tye McGowan found Lachlan Macdonald out wide. What came next was nothing short of spectacular — a curling left-footed strike from near the touchline that dipped under the bar and left the Rockdale keeper stranded.

Tariq Maia on debut - Image Credit: Brett Nielsen Photography

Rockdale equalised 10 minutes later through Ali Auglah, capitalising on a rebound after a strong save from Danijel Nizic. The hosts pressed hard to start the second half, dominating possession and pinning us deep.

But in the 60th minute, we struck again — and it was one of the debutants who delivered. A lightning counter saw Leo Mazis link up with Jackson and Macdonald, before rifling home from close range to put us back in front.

We had a chance to seal it late when Mazis and Macdonald combined again, only for the latter to narrowly miss. But the final whistle brought a roar from our bench and travelling supporters — a gutsy, disciplined, and determined win.

Against the top side in the competition, with four new Sharks in the squad, this was more than just three points — it was a statement.

Up the Sharks! 🦈