NEWCASTLE, NSW (Dec. 20, 2025) (Interstat) — The Newcastle Jets opened their A-League season with a 2-0 upset victory over Sydney on Saturday at McDonald Jones Stadium, defying pre-match projections.

Sydney was favored with nearly a 60% win probability, but the Jets controlled the match. Midfielder Will Dobson broke a scoreless deadlock in the 66th minute. Substitute Xavier Bertoncello sealed the win in the 84th minute, with assists from Piero Quispe and Lachlan Rose.

Defender Mark Natta and Rose were among four players shown yellow cards in a physical contest. The win gives Newcastle a 1-0 start, while Sydney begins its campaign 0-1.