Auckland City have progressed to the grand final of the Stirling Sports Premiership, after a tough 1-0 win over Hawke's Bay on Saturday.
The score wasn't an accurate reflection of the match, with the Auckland side profligate with their finishing, though the visitors defended stoutly.
The minor premiers, chasing their seventh national crown, completely dominated possession and territory - as they tend to do - but were frustrated until the midway through the second half.
Their goal was worth waiting for though, with Ryan De Vries conjuring up a wonderful piece of skill to set up Micah Lea'alafa in the 65th minute. The former All Whites striker has been out of touch this season but produced an exquisite Cryuff turn on the edge of the area, when seemingly trapped by two defenders, before sliding through to Solomon Islands forward, who finished with aplomb.
The duo looked to have combined again in the 81st minute, but Lea'alafa's effort was ruled out for offside.
