Bayswater City extended their lead at the top of PlayStation 4 NPL WA to three points after coming from behind to beat Floreat Athena 3-1 at Frank Drago Reserve in Round 9.
The blockbuster clash between the top two was ultimately decided by three goals in 16 minutes from the hosts, but Lewis McMahon’s penalty gave Floreat a deserved lead at the break.
The defending champions, who had gone into the game with a goal-difference lead over Floreat, showed their class in the second half, though, as quick-fire goals from David Heagney and Danny Dixon turned the game on its head.
Todd Howarth’s blistering, deflected strike from distance ensured Bayswater would go three points clear at the top, and coach Chris Coyne praised the former Perth Glory midfielder.
“He’s a cultured player with a cracking left peg and I was fortunate to play with him, so I know what he’s all about,” he said.
“It’s funny because you don’t get to see the 20 (efforts on goal) that he misses on a Tuesday and Thursday at training.
“But it was a clean strike and I’ll take that all day long if it’s going to give us that cushion during a game."
In other results, substitutes Carlo Coelho and Harley Orr came to Perth SC’s rescue as they emerged as 5-2 winners over Armadale at Dorrien Gardens on Saturday.
Sorrento striker Sean Canham rescued a point for his side with an injury time equaliser in their 1-1 draw against Cockburn City at Dalmatinac Park.
Balcatta mounted a second half comeback against a 10-man Perth Glory Youth side to beat them 3-2 at Grindleford Reserve.
Kevin White scored a brace to lead Subiaco to their second win of the season, as they beat ECU Joondalup 2-1 at ECU Joondalup Football Stadium.
And an in-form Inglewood United took advantage of their chances in front of goal as they beat Stirling Lions 2-0 at Inglewood Stadium.
Click here for full details on all of the matches.