In Round 4 Heatherton United travelled to Mooroolbark hoping to get first points in this year’s campaign. In the three opening games Heatherton failed to score, losing to Frankston Pines (0-2), Knox City (0-1) and Berwick City (0-1).

After a nervous start and some pressure from the Barkers, Heatherton threatened first, but a Meldin Klehic shot was just wide.

A couple of minutes later Ali Sanad finally broke the deadlock, skilfully rounding the Barkers keeper Mark Naumowicz and calmly slotting the ball into empty net.

As the game progressed it was becoming more evident that Barkers slow defence could not cope with the speed and skills of Heatherton players.

Luke Branca was influential in the midfield, using every opportunity to get forward. In 34^th minutes he beat the offside trap but shot straight into the keeper. Despite the dominance Heatherton went to a half time break with a minimal lead.

The second half started in the same manner. Just after 2 minutes of play Heatherton took a 2-0 lead. This time Cameron Teiermanis hit the target after an assist from Ali Sanad.

The win was sealed on the hour mark. After a swift move on the left flank, Ali Sanad was unmarked on the far post. Instead of scoring himself, Ali chipped the Barkers’ keeper, setting up Luke Branca for an easy header and a 3-0 lead.

Oliver Paterno (right) brought a much needed stability in Heatherton's defence

The home team thought they had reduced the deficit with 15 minutes to go, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Barkers missed the last opportunity to score in the 86th minute. Referee John Galjar pointed to the penalty sport after Max Solovyev fell down the box. However, Zack Merry blasted the ball over the crossbar.

In the closing minutes Heatherton could have scored its forth goal, however, a Meldin Klehic sublime shot from the edge of the box hit the post.

Line up: Alfonso Cardinale (Keeper), Naim Delibajric, Arnes Muhic, Oliver Paterno, Franko Retamal, Rashid Noor, Meldin Klehic (Captain), Owen Walker, Luke Branca, Cameron Teiermanis, Ali Sanad.

Sub used: Vlad Kosovac, Sifan Badada, Abdul Kamara.

Reserves suffered their first loss, FT 3-1.

More photos from the game available at Heatherton United SC facebook page.

In Round 5, Heatherton host North Caulfield on Sunday 29 April 2018.