Curtin University SC Edged in Nine‑Goal Thriller at Home

Curtin University SC and Cockburn City produced one of the most entertaining matches of the Western Australia State League 1 season on 4 July 2026, with Cockburn emerging 4-3 winners in a see‑saw contest at the Curtin University Football Field. The dramatic match featured seven second‑half goals and a late winner that capped a thrilling afternoon.

Curtin took an early lead but Cockburn struck back before half‑time. The second half exploded into action, with both sides trading goals. Cockburn thought they had sealed it at 3-1, but Curtin fought back to 3-3 before a stoppage‑time header decided the points.

Goal Timeline

• 8' – Curtin opens the scoring with a close-range finish.
• 32' – Cockburn equalises from a free kick.
• 50' – Cockburn takes the lead with a counter-attack.
• 63' – Cockburn makes it 3-1 from a corner.
• 71' – Curtin pulls one back with a long-range strike.
• 82' – Curtin levels at 3-3 after a goalmouth scramble.
• 90+3' – Cockburn scores the winner from a header at a set piece.

Key Players

• Ben Hoskin (Cockburn) – Scored twice and was a handful all game.
• Chris Lingard (Curtin) – Scored one and set up another in a tireless performance.

Match Analysis

Curtin's high defensive line was exploited repeatedly by Cockburn's pace, yet the home side showed immense character to come back from two goals down. However, lapses at set pieces ultimately cost them, as Cockburn's physical presence from dead balls proved decisive.

League Context

The win keeps Cockburn City in the top three of State League 1, while Curtin University SC remains mid-table but will take heart from their fighting spirit. Both teams produced a memorable spectacle that will be talked about for weeks.