Auckland FC secured a crucial 1-1 draw away to Adelaide United to maintain pressure on league leaders Newcastle, with Felipe Gallegos’ second-half volley cancelling out Ethan Alagich’s opener in a physical contest.
The result keeps Auckland ahead of third-placed Adelaide by four points, while Newcastle remain three clear at the top after their loss to Macarthur.
Coach Steve Corica described the draw as fair but lamented missed opportunities, with the side also forced into a late change after goalkeeper Michael Woud was ruled out pre-match, handing a debut to James Hilton.
With matches against Melbourne Victory, Central Coast and Sydney FC remaining, Corica said the race for the Premiers Plate remains wide open heading into the final stretch.
