A stunning late free-kick from Lachlan Brook salvaged a draw for Auckland FC in an intense 2-2 clash against Melbourne Victory.
The travelling side took an early lead with a well-executed counter-attack, rounded off by Franco Lino. However, just before half-time, Sam Cosgrove brought the hosts level. Nishan Velupillay then capitalised on a defensive error to restore Victory’s advantage, only for Brook to curl in a brilliant free-kick that earned Auckland FC a point.
This result will undoubtedly be disappointing for Auckland, who could have topped the Isuzu UTE A-League standings had they secured all three points. Meanwhile, Victory, with only two matches left, appears unlikely to break into the top two but will be satisfied sitting in third place, with Adelaide United yet to play.
Nishan Velupillay made a clever foray into midfield, finding Denis Genreau with a deft back-heel. Genreau then threaded the ball through to an advancing Franco Lino, who deftly placed it beyond keeper James Hilton, putting the visitors ahead in the 23rd minute.
As the match approached the end of the first half, Hiroki Sakai launched a long throw into the penalty area. After an initial challenge, the ball fell to Sam Cosgrove, who fired a quick shot on the turn that sent both teams into the break level at 1-1.
The second half kicked off with both teams showing promise, but it was an untimely blunder from 17-year-old Luka Vicelich that led to the match’s third goal. He miscontrolled the ball, allowing Velupillay to capitalise, charge into the box, and expertly slot it past Hilton to make it 2-1 for Victory.
The remainder of the half was marked by frustration as both teams struggled to create clear opportunities until Auckland earned a free-kick in the 82nd minute. From just inside the opposition half, Lachlan Brook unleashed a left-footed strike that, despite a fingertip save from Jack Warshawsky, found its way into the top right corner, reigniting Auckland’s hopes.
In the dying moments, Cosgrove was presented with a prime opportunity from a corner but could only direct his header wide from close range. He later had another chance, which he blazed over the bar.
Auckland’s head coach, Steve Corica, received a red card as the match drew to a close, but neither side could find a winning goal, resulting in a shared point.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
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