Match Report
Sydney United 58 Snatch Dramatic Late Winner Against Sutherland Sharks
Sydney United 58 snatched all three points with virtually the last kick of the game, defeating Sutherland Sharks 2–1 in a dramatic Round 3 encounter after a stunning Alen Harbas free-kick had brought the hosts level.
Sydney made the brighter start, creating the first opportunity inside the opening minute. A loose ball was pounced upon by a United winger, who delivered a dangerous cross across the face of goal, but nobody was on hand to turn it home.
Sutherland responded and should have taken the lead in the seventh minute when Asahi Yokokawa found himself with a half-open goal, only to send his effort wide in a huge let-off for the visitors.
The breakthrough arrived in the 23rd minute at the other end. Mason Wells collected the ball on the right, drove into the penalty area and cut inside before firing a clinical finish into the near post to give Sydney United the lead.
United grew in confidence following the goal and enjoyed more of the possession during the latter stages of the first half. Despite their improved control, Sutherland remained in the contest, with the sides heading into the break separated by Wells' impressive finish.
The Sharks came out after half-time with renewed purpose and found a spectacular equaliser in the 52nd minute. Alen Harbas stepped up from around 40 yards and produced an unbelievable free-kick, sending the ball beyond the goalkeeper in a strike that will be remembered as one of the goals of the competition.
