The result - Heidelberg’s first draw after three straight wins - keeps the Melbourne side at the top of Group B.

Kick-off was delayed due to a violent thunderstorm that struck Bossley Park and the surrounding area, complete with lightning, thunder and heavy rain - conditions that discouraged many from attending. Nonetheless, 2225 fans braved the weather to fill the stands and witness a spirited encounter.

Before the match, Club President Morris Licata and Football Chairman Roberto Carniato presented commemorative jerseys to several Marconi legends of the past, including Matt Bingley, Buddy Farah, Chad Gibson, Tony Henderson, Darren Iocca, Peter Katholos, Rene Licata, Darren McDonald, Peter Raskopolous, Joe Rizzotto, Ufuk Talay and Robbie Wheatley.

Marconi started strongly, pressing high and dictating the tempo early on, but Heidelberg gradually settled and created the first real danger through Bul Juach, whose first-time shot forced a sharp save from James Hilton. The Stallions responded through Damian Tsekenis, who fired over from a tight angle and later forced a decisive intervention from goalkeeper Yaren Sozer just before half-time.

After a goalless first half, the second period delivered the drama. In the 65th minute, Marconi broke the deadlock from a corner. Anton Mlinaric’s volley was saved by Sozer, but Harry van der Saag reacted quickest to head home the rebound.

The joy was short-lived, however, as just six minutes later, Marcus Humbert equalised for Heidelberg with a precise first-time finish after a quick move down the left.

Despite both teams pushing hard in the final stages, the score remained unchanged. The match reflected a fair balance between two committed and evenly matched sides, though the referee’s performance was met with loud criticism from the crowd for several decisions seen as favouring the visitors.

Marconi created the clearer chances to retake the lead but lacked finishing precision, while Heidelberg achieved its main objective: avoiding defeat and sealing progression to the next round.

“I thank the club for inviting me to such an important match. It was emotional to step back into this stadium,” said Renato Licata, former Marconi player with 100 NSL appearances for the club and the brother of its president.

“The storm unfortunately kept many away, but the competition deserves to continue, even if it’s hard to match the crowds of those glorious NSL years. A tough match - not always well refereed and slightly tilted in Heidelberg’s favour.”

“It was an electric atmosphere,” said Gaetano Zangari, former MP for Fairfield and current Club Marconi director.

“We never saw such good attendance during the NPL season. This competition is growing stronger and credit goes to the football authorities for launching it.

“It’s a shame the Stallions didn’t win - they had clearer chances than Heidelberg.”

“It was a great feeling to see so many of my old teammates and childhood idols again - especially Tony Henderson,” said player agent Buddy Farah, who racked up 100 NSL caps with Marconi and 20 International caps with Lebanon’s national team.

“The atmosphere was fantastic, and the competition is proving its worth with the top clubs taking it seriously and playing to win.”