Heidelberg United were forced to share the points with Marconi Stallions, settling for a 1-1 draw in a high-intensity clash at Marconi Stadium on Friday night, October 31, marking the first time United have dropped points in the Australian Championship this season.
After a brief pre-match lightning delay, Heidelberg quickly found their rhythm, with Bul Juach testing Marconi goalkeeper James Hilton with a first-time effort saved early on.
Despite strong chances for Marconi through Damian Tsekenis and Marko Jesic, the deadlock persisted until the 65th minute, when Harry van der Saag headed home after a rebound from Anton Mlinaric’s volley gave the Stallions the lead.
Heidelberg responded swiftly, with Marcus Humbert equalising just six minutes later, rifling a first-time finish into the left of the goal.
The visitors came close to taking all three points in the 79th minute when Anthony Lesiotis volleyed a free-kick that was brilliantly saved by Hilton, and deep into stoppage time, Raffie Akiel was denied by another crucial stop from the Marconi keeper.
The draw leaves Heidelberg United and Marconi Stallions occupying the top two positions in Group B, with United’s unbeaten streak halted for the first time this season.
Source: Australian Championship.
