Berkeley Sports Ground witnessed a dramatic Saturday afternoon game when Berkeley Sports FC and Shoalhaven Association drew 1-1. The high-stakes encounter was drama-filled and included a last-minute goal.
Both teams started tentatively in the first period, with neither team gaining a solid control advantage. Shoalhaven maintained control over the ball throughout the match, yet Berkeley’s defensive structure proved difficult to penetrate. Despite their dangerous attacking moves from counterattacks, the hosts failed to complete final plays effectively. The first half was a stop-start affair due to a high number of infringements, which corresponded with the increasing physicality of the match.
The match erupted into action just before halftime arrived. Kagami Mondo and Preston Ridley started creating dangerous opportunities down the flanks as Berkeley gained momentum in the match.
Christopher Hollingshead had the game’s top scoring opportunity in the 65th minute after David Chicharo delivered an incredible assist, but Shoalhaven defender Lucas Evison put in a vital slide tackle before the goal. Not long after, Berkeley’s penalty appeals for handball were dismissed.
Shoalhaven scored what they would have thought was the winner in the 80th minute through casual play. The quick counterattack started when Douglas Gray played a precise through pass to Alexander Cheyne, who finished the move with a composed finish.
A desperate Berkeley pushed all their players forward in the dying minutes as Ridley hit a near-impossible shot that struck the crossbar.
Shoalhaven had victory in their sights until the hosts served up an astounding comeback. The stunning moment arrived in stoppage time when Kagami broke past two defenders to serve a cross which allowed Hollingshead to finish a dramatic equaliser for the enthusiastic home supporters.
After the match official sounded the final whistle, the teams headed off to ponder their missed opportunities as they had to settle for a point apiece.
Shoalhaven now turns their attention to University FC at home with Berkeley looking for three points at Bellambi. Both teams have plenty of competitive spirit heading into a busy upcoming part of the season based on their recent performance.
Report by Nikith George Mathew
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