Grozos Stunner, Shoueiki’s Strike, but Late Rockdale Penalty Stings Sharks

We fought bravely in a thrilling derby but were dealt a heartbreaking 3-2 loss against Rockdale Ilinden at Ilinden Sports Centre, with a stoppage-time penalty sealing the result on a hot and humid Sunday evening.

Originally scheduled for Seymour Shaw Park, the match was moved due to our home ground still undergoing upgrades. Despite the change in venue, we put on a gutsy performance against a strong Rockdale side.

Danijel Nizic prepares the team pre-game

Brae Ovens had an early chance, showing his intent with a sharp dribble and shot that flashed past the post. We took time to settle but gradually built into the game, testing Rockdale’s defence with some well-timed balls over the top, though the offside flag denied us on multiple occasions.

The derby lived up to its reputation, with intense tackles flying in from both sides. The drinks break came at a crucial moment, allowing both teams to regroup in the sweltering conditions.

Mason Fernandez created a golden opportunity, weaving into the area and setting up Richard Shoueiki, who was inches away from levelling the game. Minutes later, a goal-line clearance denied us again, but we kept pushing and showed the fight that has defined our season.

Shoueiki looked certain to score in the 35th minute after rounding the keeper, but a desperate last-ditch tackle from Rockdale’s defence somehow kept the ball out. Just before halftime, Rockdale thought they had extended their lead, but the ball had already crossed the line for a corner. Then, in stoppage time, Peter Grozos delivered a stunning free-kick to bring us level—a goal worthy of any highlight reel.

We came out firing in the second half. Rockdale struck the crossbar within seconds of the restart, but we immediately responded. Shoueiki’s solo run and composed finish gave us a 2-1 lead, marking his first senior goal for the club.

With the lead, we defended resolutely while looking to break quickly on the counter. Rockdale pressed hard, but our defensive structure held firm. Jacob Garner produced a perfectly timed challenge to deny Alec Urosevski a clear chance, and Danijel Nizic made crucial saves to keep us ahead.

As the match wore on, Rockdale ramped up the pressure. We remained compact, but with just over ten minutes to go, they found a way through as Moudi Najjar set up Harris Gaitatzis to make it 2-2.

The match seemed destined for a draw until stoppage time, when we were penalised for a challenge on Blake Ricciuto in the box. Urosevski converted from the spot, sealing a dramatic defeat.

Despite the result, we showed immense determination, playing with intensity, confidence, and attacking flair. While it’s a tough loss to take, we’ll regroup, refocus, and look to bounce back in our next fixture. This squad continues to grow, and we’ll take plenty of positives into the coming weeks.

NPL Men's NSW Round 6 Highlights – Sutherland Sharks v Rockdale IlindenWatch on YouTube