Ten-man Auckland FC have shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw with the Newcastle Jets, despite a red card.
Auckland FC showed resilience to secure a hard-fought A-League draw against Newcastle at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday despite playing a man down for the final 20 minutes.
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The result extends their unbeaten streak to eight matches and keeps them six points clear at the top of the A-League ladder, with a game in hand over second-placed Western United.
The Jets started brightly and found the breakthrough in the 12th minute, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Eli Adams. The forward weaved his way past Auckland’s defence before firing a clinical finish into the net, giving the hosts an early advantage.
Newcastle had a golden opportunity to double their lead just eight minutes later when Nando Pijnaker was penalised for handball inside the box. After a brief review, the referee pointed to the spot, presenting Kosta Grozos with a chance to extend the Jets’ lead.
However, Auckland goalkeeper Alex Paulsen produced a superb save, diving low to his right to deny Grozos and keep his side within reach.
Auckland grew into the game after that let-off and found their equaliser in the 37th minute.
Hiroki Sakai delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Jesse Randall showed great determination to rise above the Newcastle defence and head the ball home.
In doing so, he collided heavily with Newcastle keeper Noah James, but his bravery was rewarded as the ball nestled into the net.
The second half saw Auckland pressing for a potential winner despite being away from home. They created a handful of chances but struggled to convert their opportunities.
Their challenge became significantly harder in the 72nd minute when Louis Verstraete received a straight red card following a VAR review. The Belgian midfielder went in for a late challenge, and after reviewing the footage, the referee had no hesitation in sending him off.
Despite being down to 10 men, Auckland still looked threatening and even thought they had taken the lead in the 81st minute.
A goalmouth scramble saw the ball bundled into the net, but the celebrations were short-lived as the referee disallowed the goal for handball, with replays showing the ball had deflected in off Tommy Smith’s lower arm.
Newcastle had one final opportunity to snatch all three points deep into stoppage time when they were awarded a free kick just outside the box.
Grozos stepped up, hoping to redeem himself after his earlier missed penalty, but his effort flew over the crossbar, much to the relief of Auckland.
With the draw, Auckland FC remains in firm control of the A-League title race, with a game in hand. They now return home, where they will host Central Coast next Sunday.
Auckland FC 1 (Jesse Randall 37') Newcastle Jets 1 (Eli Adams 12'). HT: 1-1