Heidelberg United have not rested on their laurels to kick-start their 2018 National Premier League Victoria season, winning all four opening games in a perfect early run.
The Bergers had a very successful 2017 campaign which included a scalp over Perth Glory in the FFA Cup, Dockerty Cup trophy against Bentleigh Greens, first place on the NPL Victoria table, a grand final berth and topped it all off with a NPL National Finals victory in the decider against Brisbane Strikers.
After one of the finest seasons in club history, Heidelberg are still hungry for more.
They showed tremendous character against Pascoe Vale last Frdiday where the Bergers had an almighty task after half time. They were down to 10 men before the break and had already conceded two goals.
It was the only time Heidelberg had trailed in a match this season and faced the prospect of their first dropped points, but it was a second half for the ages.
Prolific goal scorer Tom Cahill got his first hat-trick in the yellow and black to achieve a memorable come-from-behind 3-2 win. There was even the added difficulty of going down to nine men throughout the whole five minutes of stoppage time.
It was a top-four clash when the two sides met and it lived up to the expectation of being a cracking contest.
Can you believe it!… Heidelberg United come back from 2:0 down v Pacoe Vale to win 2:3 away. @HUFCWARRIOR was reduced to 9 men. A win for the ages. #NPLVIC. Australia's NPL champions show why THEY are the champs with fight & determination.
— Football Nation Radio (@FNR_Radio) March 23, 2018
During the off-season, there were question marks about how Heidelberg could cover the absence of star striker Kenny Athiu during his loan spell at Melbourne Victory. Cahill was the one chosen to fill a key void and has since shown his worth at his new club.
Sean Ellis, who provided the assist for Athiu’s goal in the FFA Cup, has also been instrumental with two goals of his own.
A strong defence has held Heidelberg in good stead too with just three conceded from four games making them one of the tougher sides to get past.
There’s no sign of the Bergers slowing down who will be the hunted now as one of the big clubs to beat. So far they’ve got the job done with fighting spirit to continue their winning ways.
Feature image credit: Sally Tsalikidis
