news-engine

Hellas delivered another memorable night for the faithful who packed into Preston Lions’ ground for this Australia Cup quarter-final. South Melbourne stormed one of the most intimidating venues in the competition, showing character, resolve and plenty of bite. The hosts drew first blood through Cuba in the 48th minute. Hellas responded twelve minutes later via Painter-Andrews. As the match ticked into the final ten minutes, the prevailing sense was that this quarter-final would be decided in extra time – or even from the spot. But one man on the pitch had other ideas. His name? Cocks. Arran Cocks. The South African forward collected the ball outside Preston’s box in the 86th minute and, with a crisp right-footed hit, sent it skidding into the back of the net. The 1-2 scoreline held firm, despite the referee’s baffling decision to tack on an additional two minutes beyond stoppage time. Eventually, the final whistle came. Hellas’ players celebrated with the supporters massed behind the goal, while the roughly 5,000 Lions fans began filing out – disappointed and dejected. Hellas now marches into the semi-finals, where Lions FC await. The other semi-final pairing is Sydney FC vs Melbourne Victory.