by John Fotinos
It was a tale of set pieces at Broadmeadows, with Heidelberg United forced to settle for a draw after twice being pegged back by Hume.
Despite the disappointment of conceding a late equaliser, the ‘Bergers unbeaten run stretched to 11 in the NPL, and second spot on the table on goal difference.
The game was a battle of tactics throughout, with Heidelberg enjoying a majority of possession & looking the more likely to fashion opportunities. Defender Ben Collins opened the score late in the first half, ghosting in at the back post to slam home a point blank shot after a corner kick. Hume substitute keeper Eren Aslan’s first touch was picking the ball out of the net – with him having moments earlier replaced the injured Jacson Riley.
Heidelberg might have doubled its advantage on more than one occasion during the second half, but were made to pay via a Josh Bingham header from a corner kick.
Asahi Yokokowa, back from a hand injury that sidelined him for several games, gave the ‘Bergers the lead back with five minutes remaining. A peach of a strike from 20 metres, following sharp build up play by Sheppard – had goal of the week contender written all over it.
However, it was another Hume corner that provided a second equaliser, with another substitute, Joshua Gulevski on hand to bundle home the loose ball. Hume happy to rescue a point after twice facing a deficit – Heidelberg ruing its chance to come away with all three points against a top six contender.
A quick turnaround for the ‘Bergers – with a Tuesday night (April 30 @ 7:30pm) home Dockerty / Football Australia Round 5 Cup tie at the Olympic Village. Heidelberg United hosts VPL 2 team Brunswick Juventus, currently third in its division following a 1-0 defeat last Friday away to North Sunshine Eagles.
Match Details – Round 11 NPLV-Mens:
Hume City 2 (Bingham 65’, Gulevski 90’) – 2 Heidelberg United (Collins 45 + 1’, Yokokawa 85’)
