The Newcastle Jets have etched their name deeper into the club's history books, securing a record-extending fifth consecutive away victory with a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium. However, the triumph was overshadowed by a concerning hamstring injury to goal-scoring hero Eli Adams.
Adams Shines Before Injury Scare
The match on Saturday, January 17, 2026, was largely defined by the brilliance and subsequent misfortune of Eli Adams. The Jets attacker was instrumental in building Newcastle's lead, first providing a pinpoint cross for Joe Shaughnessy's 15th-minute header – the Irish defender's first A-League Men's goal.
Adams then doubled the advantage himself in spectacular fashion just before halftime. From just outside the 18-yard box, he unleashed a rocket-like free-kick that left Wanderers keeper Lawrence Thomas with no chance, marking his third goal of the season.
The concern arose during the interval, with Adams seen icing his left hamstring on the bench. He did not return for the second half, replaced by Xavier Bertoncello. The full extent of the damage is yet to be confirmed, casting a shadow over the Jets' celebrations.
Jets Hold Firm Against Late Wanderers Surge
Newcastle controlled large portions of the contest, with Will Dobson hitting the post in the second half. Jets goalkeeper James Delianov was crucial, making several key saves including a spectacular tip around the post from Kosta Barbarouses in a one-on-one situation.
The Wanderers, languishing near the bottom of the ladder, found a late lifeline through 19-year-old substitute Awan Lual in the 83rd minute. His neat finish set up a tense finale, but the Jets' defence, marshalled by the impressive Delianov, held firm through three minutes of added time to secure the three points.
Captaincy Shake-Up and League-Wide Impact
The match also saw a significant change in the Jets' leadership. Regular skipper Kosta Grozos was dropped to the bench, with off-season recruit Max Burgess handed the captain's armband for his first ALM start for Newcastle. Burgess was awarded three Alex Tobin Medal points for his influential performance.
In other A-League Men's news, the scheduled fixture between the Central Coast Mariners and Macarthur FC was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Central Coast Stadium following torrential rainfall. The Jets, now on 18 points, have remarkably earned 12 of those on their travels this campaign.
The victory solidifies Newcastle's impressive away form and provides a vital boost in the league standings, though all eyes will now be on the fitness update concerning Eli Adams.
