Two of Australia’s most historic football clubs, South Melbourne Hellas and Heidelberg United, have advanced to the Round of 32 of the Australia Cup, as well as to the semi-finals of the Victoria Cup (Dockerty Cup).
On Tuesday night at the Frank Holohan Soccer Complex, South Melbourne, with goalkeeper Javier Lopez as the hero, eliminated Dandenong City in a penalty shootout (3-1), after a 1-1 draw in regular time and extra time.
The home side, despite not being better in the first half, took the lead in the 31st minute with a goal from Thomas Giannakopoulos, a score that held until halftime. In the second half, the “Blue and Whites” came out strong and managed to equalise in the 55th minute with a header from Andy Brennan.
South Melbourne then missed several chances to take the lead, as the opposing goalkeeper made crucial saves. Near the end, Dandenong City nearly won the game, with a header hitting the crossbar and the rebound striking the goal line before being cleared by Hellas defenders.
In extra time, neither team managed to create a clear opportunity, and the match proceeded to penalties. Javier Lopez saved two of Dandenong City’s four attempts (they scored only once), while one shot went wide. South Melbourne converted all three of their penalties, taken by Marco Jankovic, Samuel Francou, and Nahuel Bonada.
At the same time, in the Greek derby held at John Cain Memorial Park, Heidelberg United defeated Northcote City 2-0. Goals were scored by Anthony Theodoropoulos in the 45th minute and Sebit James Ngor from the penalty spot in the 63rd, securing the win for Heidelberg.
