THEY made life hard for themselves, but in the end the MWFA Select Squad did just enough to beat their neighbours from the Northern Suburbs FA 3-2 on Wednesday night at Cromer Park.
Coach Paul Juergens was forced to make a couple of late changes, with Pittwater RSL FC goalkeeper Dean McCreath and silky Narrabeen midfielder Michal Preisler late inclusions.
The locals took the lead after 13′ minutes, when Wakehurst’s John Bushnell slotted home from close range.
With 36′ minutes on the clock Preisler doubled the MWFA’s lead with a clinical finish from six yards.
Whatever NSFA Select coach Greg Fuchs said at the break had the desired effect, with the men from the north shore scoring a minute after oranges.
Manly Allambie’s Jack Niven restored the MWFA’s two goal buffer on 72 minutes thanks to a spectacular effort from distance, only to see the away side ensure some nervous moments in injury time when they pegged another goal back.
Pittwater RSL FC’s Cam White and Seaforth’s Aidan D’Arcy were the standouts for the hosts.
“I thought we started strong, and got the crucial early goal,” MWFA Select Squad captain Charlie Fyfe said.
“We lost our way a bit after that, but in the end got the job done.
“All the lads rate the concept, it is good preparation for the season ahead and a chance to play with new people.”
Next Wednesday night Juergens’ men face a stern test when they take on Manly United at Cromer Park from 7pm.
