Caraccia Strikes as City Claim Hard-Fought Victory Over Comets

Adelaide City continued its strong run of form with a determined 1-0 victory over Adelaide Comets on Friday night, securing another valuable three points in Round 16 of the RAA National Premier League.

In a tightly contested encounter at LJ Hooker-Mile End Sports Park (Ellis Park), it was captain Patrick Caraccia who proved the difference, finding the back of the net in the 68th minute to lift the Black and Whites into second place on the NPL ladder.

The opening half was an even affair, with both sides creating chances but unable to break the deadlock. Adelaide City enjoyed periods of control while the Comets remained dangerous on the counter, ensuring the teams headed into halftime locked at 0-0.

Head Coach Vas Parhas looked to his bench just after the hour mark, introducing Francesco Schimizzi in place of Luis Lawrie-Lattanzio before handing Alex Battistella his first appearance since rejoining the Club, replacing Asad Kasumovic in the 70th minute.

The breakthrough arrived in the 68th minute when Patrick Caraccia finished clinically to give City the lead, rewarding a performance that had increasingly seen the visitors take control of the contest.

Adelaide City continued to create opportunities throughout the second half, finishing with 15 shots, seven on target and an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.58, while restricting the Comets to just one shot on target. Defensively, the Black and Whites were disciplined and organised, recording a second consecutive clean sheet with goalkeeper John Hall rarely called into serious action.

The match also marked the full Adelaide City debut of Australian youth international Bailey O'Neil, who completed the full 90 minutes in an assured performance at left-back following his arrival from the Adelaide United Youth Team. The 20-year-old looked composed throughout, helping City secure another clean sheet.

The victory extends Adelaide City's unbeaten run and sees the Club climb to second place on the NPL ladder with 32 points, keeping the pressure on the competition leaders as the race for the Premiership continues.

Attention now turns to Saturday 4 July, when Adelaide City returns home to Adelaide City Park to host Para Hills Knights. Kick-off is scheduled for 2:30pm, with the Black and Whites looking to continue their momentum in front of the home faithful.

Match Details

Adelaide Comets 0

Adelaide City 1 (Caraccia 68')

RAA National Premier League – Round 16

Friday, 26 June 2026

LJ Hooker-Mile End Sports Park (Ellis Park)