NPLW Round #16: Stalemate in Yeronga

OUR LIONS WOMEN FOUGHT BACK LATE TO SECURE A DETERMINED 3-3 DRAW IN AN END-TO-END CLASH AT GOODWIN PARK

Late brilliance from Amy Gunston saw our Lions Women recover a crucial point after an intense battle against Olympic FC.

Our Lions Women started on the front foot, dominating possession while trying to penetrate a tight Olympic defence. Several back-heeled attempts from Mariel Hecher and some fine long balls from Tiarna Karambasis saw us continue to build pressure, but we were unable to penetrate the centre of the box.

With patience and persistence, we finally broke the deadlock through Tonia-Marie Rantucci. Our inform forward rifled home a first-time strike into the roof of the net after a sharp turn and cross from Mariel Hecher.

Despite the strong start, Olympic FC fought back, drawing level ten minutes later after a sharp counterattack. We fought until the end of the first half, leaving the field locked at 1-1.

The hosts started the second half with intent, putting us behind on the hour mark after sneaking the ball home at the back post. This time, our Lions Women were forced to respond.

Meaghan McElligott levelled proceedings fifteen minutes later with a deft first-time finish to nutmeg the keeper after a stunning through-ball from Amy Gunston. We went into the final ten minutes locked level at 2-2.

A skilful turn and a powerful shot into the upper left side of the goal saw our Lions Women once again forced behind, but our response was swift. Within two minutes, Amy Gunston made it 3-3 with an impossible finish from the byline. Skipping past her marker, she picked a tight lock and beat the keeper on her line to snatch a late draw.

Both sides went for it in the final five minutes, but we were forced to settle for a well-earned draw in a compelling clash on the road.