Heatherton Utd-BH Centar

Written by George Stogiannou

Heatherton United’s run towards the SE 2 title hit a snag at home on Saturday when it lost 1-0 to title rival Mooroolbark SC. The Rd 14 result meant the visiting Barkers grabbed pole position from Heatherton.

The visitors played a direct, physical style of football aimed at getting the ball quickly to their two strikers. In contrast, Heatherton played a more technical game, trying to build and keep possession through the middle.

However it was a direct pass over the top of the Barkers’ defense chased down by United striker Ali Sanad, which almost led to the opening goal.

Sanad appeared to get to the ball before Mooroolbark keeper Huan Munoz, but went down under the keeper’s challenge which forced the ball out of play. The referee ruled a goal kick despite Sanad’s vociferous appeal for a penalty.

Soon after, Mooroolbark skipper David Brickell won a free kick outside the box and struck his shot powerfully through the wall. The ball bounced before Heatherton keeper Steven Ancevski and flew into the net to the delight of the travelling Barkers’ fans.

Heatherton missed a great chance to equalize minutes later when midfielder Dzanan Mjucic struck his shot over the bar from close range.

In the second half both keepers were forced into good saves.

A fine assist by Heatherton midfielder Zijai released Sanad but Barker’s keeper Munoz was once more in his way.

Heatherton pressed forward with the wind at their backs, winning a series of corners but were too often guilty of wasting these set piece opportunities, through wayward crosses.

Ultimately they were unable to break down a resolute Barker’s team which celebrated what could be a vital win, after the final whistle.

After the match, Heatherton coach Goran Runje commented, “ I thought it was a very even game. We utterly deserved a point. Both teams had chances. I won’t comment on the officials. At the end of the day, I don’t believe there should have been a winner in that game. You’ve got to take your chances.

They scored from a 25 metre free kick which took a wicked bounce in front of the keeper and it goes in. We dominate play for most of the game. They did created their own chances to their credit but we didn’t put ours away. ..

A week’s break. This thing can turn around very quickly. At the end of the day, you’ve just got to string a few wins together and you’re back in business.”

After a bye next week, Heatherton resumes its league campaign with an away match to 10^th placed North Caulfield on July 12.

See images from Round 14 in Photo-gallery.