Miraculous Maccabi snatch unlikely win
NORTH Caulfield Maccabi beat arch-rivals Seaford United 2-1 in blustery conditions at Caulfield Park on Sunday, despite trailing by a goal with five minutes remaining in the match.
NORTH Caulfield Maccabi beat arch-rivals Seaford United 2-1 in blustery conditions at Caulfield Park
on Sunday, despite trailing by a goal with five minutes remaining in the match.
With Seaford’s win all but assured, Maccabi managed an extraordinary comeback, scoring two last-gasp goals to seize victory and bragging rights.
It was a must-win game for both sides, as they battle to avoid relegation.
Maccabi started the better, creating numerous chances through striker Bradley Blumenthal who was unable to convert in the early going.
Josh Braver added to Maccabi’s potent combination up-front which caused plenty of headaches for Seaford’s back four.
Alon Esterman, who was doubtful pre-game but still suited up, was determined in defence and, alongside stalwart Jonathan Rochwerger, broke up several Seaford attacks.
The breakthrough for the opening goal finally came when a Seaford midfielder strolled unchecked past a cluster of Maccabi players to receive a pass and slotted the ball home giving the keeper no chance.
Maccabi sought to equalise before halftime through Oran Harel, but had to settle for a 1-0 deficit at the break.
Coach Tony Merakis introduced midfielders Rolland Ngalle and Benjamin Schneider in the second half to add to Maccabi’s pace in the middle and increase the defensive pressure on Seaford.
As the game rolled on it appeared Maccabi’s wasteful finishing early would consign it to a defeat, with the slow pace of the match suiting its more physical opponents.
In the 90th minute, Ngalle skipped past a number of Seaford players and, showing poise and composure, placed a weighted through ball to Harel who finished from close range.
Moments later, the impossible happened and Ngalle again played the initiator.
Maccabi’s defence cleared the ball, which Harel flicked into Ngalle’s path, the rampaging star then bursting into space and blasting his side into an improbable lead.
The home crowd was in disbelief with Maccabi changing the match’s fortunes, and indeed its season, with a dominant final five minutes.
North Caulfield Reserves drew 1-1 and sits third on the ladder, while the Maccabi Thirds also drew, recording a 3-3 fixture at Beaumaris with Adam Fridman scoring a brace.
North Caulfield Maccabi’s senior women’s team romped to a 7-0 win over Sandringham SC as it featured four individual goal-scorers.
SAMANTHA PHILLIPS
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