AC Carina survived a late North Pine United scare to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory in the Brisbane Capital League 1, with a stoppage-time winner ensuring all three points stayed at home. The match delivered end-to-end entertainment, five goals, and a strong dose of late drama for a delighted home crowd.

Carina race into a two-goal lead

AC Carina exploded out of the blocks and looked to have put the game beyond reach inside the opening half-hour. First, forward Jordan Fisk capitalised on a defensive error to slot the ball past the advancing keeper. Then, Sam Whitmore doubled the lead with a well-taken volley from a corner, finishing off a swift second-phase move.

North Pine United struggled to get a foothold in the match and were fortunate not to fall further behind before half-time. Carina continued to press, and only a series of fine saves from the North Pine goalkeeper kept the growing deficit down to two goals at the break.

North Pine fight back

The second half was a completely different story as North Pine United threw caution to the wind. Their pressure paid off in the 51st minute when a header from a deep free kick reduced the deficit. The goal gave the visitors renewed belief, and they pushed hard for an equaliser.

Carina appeared to have weathered the storm until a defensive lapse in the 82nd minute allowed North Pine to level the score at 2-2. The travelling support erupted, and the game suddenly looked destined for a share of the spoils.

Stoppage-time winner

Just when it seemed the game was heading for a draw, AC Carina showed their character. Deep into stoppage time, a strong run down the right wing ended with a low cross that found Ben Costa unmarked at the near post. His first-time finish flew into the roof of the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home players and supporters.

The 3-2 victory sees Carina climb the Brisbane Capital League 1 standings and demonstrates their ability to grind out results even when their performance dips. North Pine United will rue the missed chances in the second half but can take confidence from their spirited comeback.

Match summary

This was a contest of two contrasting halves: Carina dominated the first period, while North Pine United threw everything forward in the second. The decisive moments proved to be the early clinical finishing and the late composure shown by Ben Costa in front of goal.

Both teams will take positives, but it is AC Carina who enter the next round of fixtures with renewed optimism and all three points in the bag.