IT WAS stoppage time when Iacopo La Rocca slotted the ball through the legs of Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Liam Reddy and into the back of the net and, with that second goal, confirmed Western Sydney Wanderers’ place in back-to-back grand finals.

Youssouf Hersi had earlier opened the scoring in the first half, tapping in from close range.

There was a degree of atonement because the Wanderers lost last year’s grand final to the Mariners.

But the real revenge will have to come on Sunday against Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium.

“It’s great to be back (in the grand final) and it gives us another chance, the boys are looking to make amends,” said Carlingford Redbacks junior Aaron Mooy.

“It was one of our main goals for the team this season, to lift the trophy, so it’s always been in the back of our minds.”

Mooy himself has been part of the Wanderers since day one, but is moving on at the end of the season.

The grand final will be his last A-League game in red and black.

“This would be the cherry on the cake, it’s the one thing on the list left to do,” Mooy said.

His development under coach Tony Popovic has seen his star rise and he is considered one of the brightest talents in Australian football, as the national team looks forward to the birth of a new era.

Mooy said he has become much improved under Popovic’s tutelage.

“I’ve definitely become a lot better, Popovic taught me a lot, both in terms of attack and defence,” Mooy said.

“I’m very grateful and I’ve enjoyed every minute.”

Western Sydney Wanderers play Brisbane Roar on Sunday at Suncorp Stadium, kick off at 4pm.

Originally published as Midfielder Mooy seeks fairytale finale