Goals at both ends led to Otago United's meritorious 1-1 draw with Wellington in the national youth league clash at Tahuna Park on Saturday.
Haunting memories of Otago's 9-1 loss in the first round surfaced when Wellington raced ahead after just one minute as Blair Mitchell cleverly lobbed keeper Zayn Officer.
But Officer went on to have a strong match, and the rest of the team showed plenty of courage to harry and tackle the classy Wellington side, allowing few clear chances.
Coach Tony Martin comments said the game had been of "vital importance" to the Otago squad.
"Having been defeated 9-1 by Wellington in the first game of the campaign this final match served as a direct measuring gauge as to the progress of the Otago side.
"With 15 players absent from the final selection due to injury and sickness the game also served as a testament to squad depth and collective desire to get a positive result."
Martin was delighted with Otago's recovery from the early setback.
He said the team had regrouped well and deserved its equaliser, scored in injury time via the boot of Will McIntyre and a deflection.
Excellent performances by McIntyre, Officer and Andrew Ridden were highlights in a solid, battling team performance.
Against a Wellington side that possessed excellent technique and movement, the point gained proved to be a sign of progress for Otago over the course of the season. Following the big opening loss to Wellington, the next five games resulted in a win, a draw, two single-goal losses and a 2-0 defeat in Canterbury.
"Now it's time to look forward to next season," Martin said.
"Even though we have only just finished, planning needs to begin now if the momentum provided by being so competitive in this league is to be maintain and improved upon.