In a thrilling FA Vase encounter between West Auckland and Washington FC, it was West Auckland who emerged victorious in a commanding fashion with an impressive 8-0 score line. The match, filled with action from the first whistle, showcased West Auckland’s attacking abilities and clinical finishing.

The game kicked off with West Auckland asserting their intentions early on. Scott made a brilliant run and found the back of the net, only to have his celebrations cut short by the offside flag in the 9th minute. Undeterred, West continued to press forward, with Scott leading the charge. His subsequent efforts were blocked, and Hume’s long-range strike met a similar fate.

However, West Auckland’s persistence paid off in the 16th minute when Nicholson embarked on a mazy run, setting up Scott. His shot was saved but rebounded off the bar, allowing Nicholson to pounce and blast the ball into the net, giving West Auckland a deserved lead of 1-0.

Scott’s impact was undeniable, and he doubled West Auckland’s advantage in the 16th minute with a well-placed header, making it 2-0. The momentum was firmly on West’s side, as they continued to dominate the proceedings. Nicholson showcased his skill again in the 30th minute, cutting in from the left and unleashing a low shot that found its way under the keeper, extending West Auckland’s lead to 3-0.

The second half saw no respite for Washington FC, as West Auckland continued to showcase their attacking flair. Scott, a constant threat, found himself through on goal in the 53rd minute. He exhibited great composure, holding off a defender and curling the ball around the keeper to secure his second goal of the match, and West’s fourth, making it 4-0.

A tactical substitution saw Fisher enter the fray, and he immediately made an impact. In the 56th minute, Hume provided a precise pass to Blinco, who confidently slotted the ball home, further increasing West Auckland’s lead to 5-0. The goals continued to flow, with Scott completing his hat trick in the 57th minute, taking West’s advantage to an impressive 6-0.

Jackson and Fisher injected fresh energy into West’s attack following more substitutions. In the 68th minute, Fisher’s finishing touch, courtesy of a well-played cross by Wood and an assist by Potter, extended West’s lead to an astounding 7-0. Jackson’s enthusiasm almost resulted in another goal, but the offside flag thwarted his efforts in the 76th minute.

Nonetheless, Jackson’s persistence paid off as he showcased remarkable skill, leading to a shot that, although blocked, was promptly hammered home by Blinco in the 76th minute. The scoreboard now read 8-0 in favour of West Auckland.

The remainder of the match was characterized by West Auckland’s dominance, with the team coming close to adding more goals to their already impressive tally. As the final whistle blew, West Auckland emerged as resounding winners with an 8-0 triumph over Washington FC.

This commanding victory not only showcased West Auckland’s exceptional attacking prowess but also underlined their capability to capitalise on opportunities. The fans were treated to an exhilarating display of football, one that West Auckland supporters will undoubtedly cherish as their team advanced in the FA Vase tournament.