Eltham Redbacks 3 – 4 Western United FC NPL
National Premier Leagues Victoria 2 | June 19, 2026

Match Overview

Western United FC NPL survived a late scare to edge past a spirited Eltham Redbacks side 4-3 in a thrilling encounter at Eltham Reserve. The visitors raced into a three‑goal lead before the home side staged a remarkable comeback that fell just short. The result keeps Western United firmly in the promotion picture, while Eltham are left to rue a slow start.

Blistering Start for Western United

Western United looked unstoppable in the opening half-hour. Striker Luka Jovicic scored twice in the first 20 minutes — the first a powerful header, the second a low drive after a defensive error — and winger Joshua Tran added a third with a curling effort from 20 yards. At 3-0 down, Eltham faced an uphill climb.

Eltham’s Fightback

The Redbacks showed tremendous character just before half‑time when midfielder Sam Young volleyed home from a corner to make it 3-1. That goal gave the hosts belief, and early in the second half, striker Jack Morrison pounced on a defensive mix‑up to reduce the deficit to 3-2. The momentum swung dramatically, and Eltham pushed for an equalizer. However, against the run of play, Western United grabbed a fourth in the 67th minute — a cool finish from substitute David Chen after a quick counter‑attack.

Dramatic Finale

Eltham refused to give up, and with 10 minutes remaining, a deflected shot from Morrison found the net to make it 4-3. The home side threw everyone forward in search of a dramatic equalizer, but Western United held firm, with goalkeeper Milan Radovic making a crucial save in stoppage time.

Standout Players

• Jack Morrison (Eltham): Scored twice and was a constant threat, almost single‑handedly sparking the comeback.
• Luka Jovicic (Western United): Clinical brace in the first half set the platform for victory.
• David Chen (Western United): Came off the bench to score what proved to be the decisive goal.

Season Context

Western United FC NPL remain in third place in the NPL Victoria 2 standings, keeping the pressure on the top two. Eltham Redbacks drop to eighth, but their fighting spirit suggests they can climb higher if they cut out defensive lapses.