There was plenty riding on the game against Colts United FC, with both sides looking upwards at leader Swan Hill after strong starts to the year.
The Border Raiders clicked quickly in the contest and found their way to goal within seven minutes, Jean-Claude Herman popping up from midfield to give his side the advantage.
That was the only goal of the half, both sides defending doggedly to protect their goal, at times drawing the ire of the official.
Five players across both sides picked up yellow cards before the half was out for some over-eager challenges, but otherwise the status quo was maintained into the break with Echuca ahead 1-0.
Colts found more solid footing in the second half.
With an hour gone, Thomas Christie levelled the scores and the Strathfieldsaye star would give his side the lead, finding a second with 12 minutes to play.
Suddenly trailing and with the clock running down the Border Raiders were jolted into action.
The scores were level again three minutes later as Samuel Wanesiofa hit the target, before Millard Matoro’s 84th minute strike won it for Echuca-Moama, handing Strathfieldsaye its first defeat of the year.
The Border Raiders now sit in second spot on 13 points, although Colts (12) have a game in hand.
Leader Swan Hill sits on 16.
Echuca-Moama will be hoping to continue its winning run when it hosts winless La Trobe this Saturday at Jack Eddy Oval.
Women’s
The Border Raiders’ women played out a 1-1 draw away at Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve.
Challenging Golden City, Echuca Moama had the lead at half-time after Melissa Clark put her side ahead at 26 minutes.
Mietta Grills-Marsali restored parity nine minutes after half-time and neither side was able to break the deadlock over the remaining half hour.
Echuca-Moama is in second place, on 10 points with a 3-1-1 record.
Although trailing Swan Hill by two points, the Border Raiders have been by far the most dynamic attack, scoring 22 times compared to the Swans’ 10.
The side returns to action on Sunday, hosting Epsom at Jack Eddy Oval.
