Highland North District Edges Hong Kong FC 4-3 in Dramatic League Cup Comeback
On.cc · 2 SOURCESabout 11 hours ago4 MIN
Summary
Highland North District secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over Hong Kong FC in Saturday's League Cup Advancement Group second-round match at Tsing Yi Sports Ground. Substitute midfielder Barriada scored a spectacular bicycle kick in the 94th minute to complete a stunning comeback after Hong Kong FC had twice equalized. The result means Highland North District advance to the next round of the competition while maintaining their position at the top of the league table.
Key Points
- Highland North District took a 2-0 lead through goals from Venys (52nd minute) and Lawa (54th minute), only for Hong Kong FC to mount two fighting rallies
- Hong Kong FC's Bow Wai Cheung (博偉程) scored twice including an 89th-minute equalizer to force what appeared to be heading to penalties
- David Caddie was sent off in the 74th minute for retaliation after a collision with Gavin, forcing Highland North District to play with 10 men for the final 20 minutes
- Striker Grant was unavailable due to suspension after accumulating five yellow cards, while McGinley and Dom missed the match for Hong Kong U23 national team duties in Thailand
- Hong Kong FC coach Darren (戴雅諾) has significantly strengthened the squad with British signings and veteran Rodrigo, making them a much more competitive side this season
Why It Matters
This victory keeps Highland North District three points clear at the league summit and demonstrates their championship mettle by winning despite being reduced to 10 men. For Hong Kong FC, the narrow defeat against the league leaders highlights their potential to challenge for honors this season, offering encouragement for their campaign ahead .
This victory keeps Highland North District three points clear at the league summit and demonstrates their championship mettle by winning despite being reduced to 10 men. For Hong Kong FC, the narrow defeat against the league leaders highlights their potential to challenge for honors this season, offering encouragement for their campaign ahead .