### Auckland FC Lose Unbeaten Streak in Chaotic Match Auckland FC’s unbeaten streak in the A-League came to an end with a 2–1 defeat to the Newcastle Jets at Go Media Stadium, played under difficult conditions more suited to water polo than football. The pitch was left drenched after heavy rain, with players repeatedly struggling to control and pass the ball on the waterlogged surface. ### Match Highlights Newcastle took advantage of the slippery field early on, pressing high and disrupting Auckland’s rhythm. Despite Auckland equalising later in the first half, the Jets regained the lead after a defensive error caused by a skidding ball in a puddle-laden penalty area. Attempts to reschedule the game were rejected after officials deemed the field just playable enough to proceed. ### Reaction and Aftermath Fans and commentators criticized the decision to continue the match amid unsafe conditions. One commentator called it “puddle ball at its most extreme,” emphasizing the farcical nature of the game. The loss marked Auckland’s first defeat of the season, ending their otherwise impressive unbeaten run. > “It’s disappointing to lose that way, but the weather made football nearly impossible,” said Auckland’s head coach after the match. Auckland will next face Melbourne Victory, hoping to bounce back on a drier pitch and reclaim their early-season momentum. *** **Author’s summary:** Auckland FC lost their first A-League match 2–1 to Newcastle Jets in soaking conditions that turned the game into an unpredictable, puddle-filled spectacle.

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RNZ — 2025-11-30