Match Report
Thurlow Nunn Division 1 South
NW London 3-3 FC Baresi
Edson Lima 13' (FC Baresi)
Murat Karagul 27' (FC Baresi)
Lamine Gomes 43' (NW London)
Arianit Krasniqi 47' (NW London)
Arianit Krasniqi PEN.52' (NW London)
Glody Kalunda 89' (FC Baresi)
An 89th-minute goal from FC Baresi denied NW London a sensational comeback victory at Coles Park, as the two sides played out an entertaining 3-3 draw.
After consecutive victories, NW London entered the game full of confidence. There was a start for youngster Maksym Fostyk, while Taylan Gul made his full debut after signing from Clapton CFC.
FC Baresi started strongly, with forward Kishawn James looking lively. Their early pressure paid off when captain Edson Lima finished from close range after a free-kick was recycled into a dangerous area.
NW London had to wait over 20 minutes for their first real chance, as Krasniqi nearly pulled one back after a perfectly weighted pass from Gul. His effort slid under the onrushing keeper but rebounded off the inside of the post.
Baresi continued to threaten from set pieces and were rewarded again when a corner was left unchallenged, allowing another close-range finish to put them 2-0 ahead.
This setback seemed to spark NW London into life, and they pushed forward with greater intent. Just before half-time, Krasniqi played in Gomes, who finished clinically across goal into the side netting to give the Gorillas hope going into the break.
The second half saw NW London come out with renewed energy, playing at a much higher tempo. It didn't take long for them to level the score, as Krasniqi latched onto a pass from Gul, taking three touches before smashing an 18-yard strike in off the post.
Moments later, Fostyk played Krasniqi through again, and as he shaped to shoot, he was brought down for a penalty. Stepping up himself, he coolly converted to give NW London a 3-2 lead.
With momentum now on their side, NW London pushed forward, with Javaloyes forcing a save. At the other end, Kishawn James remained a threat, forcing Casey into two excellent stops to keep NW London in front.
The game took a pivotal turn in the final 10 minutes when Andeme was sent off for a second yellow card. With a man advantage, Baresi piled forward in search of an equaliser.
Despite some resolute defending, NW London conceded late when a free-kick was swung in, leading to a goalmouth scramble that saw Kalumba tuck home to make it 3-3.
The final moments were frantic, with Casey making a crucial save while NW London looked to counter. In the end, the thrilling contest ended in a draw, but NW London will feel they let the win slip away, with the red card proving costly and allowing Baresi to snatch a point.