For the second time this season, Albany had to come back from a two-goal halftime deficit against Taieri.
However, the experienced red and blacks were able to collect more than the draw they had in round two, as they rolled over the top of the young Tuataras team in the last 20 minutes, to win 4-2.
Taieri started with real intent and it seems it really fires up to play the traditional table toppers Albany.
A pinpoint overhead pass from Finn Ward found Tom Jolly in the circle and he was able to convert.
When James Nicolson added a second for the blue and yellows, Albany was under the pump.Taieri was unable to convert any further chances and at half time the crowd could be excused for feeling they’d seen this film before.
Albany lifted in the second half but there was just 25 minutes remaining before it broke through.
Sillas Dalley scored a somewhat controversial goal, and Taieri contested the play, but the umpires consulted and awarded the goal.
Following this breakthrough the Alligators poured on the pressure and eventually broke through the young Taieri side. Veteran Nathan Gilbert grabbed a double, and Nick Parata also scored to complete the dream comeback for Albany.
Josh Caldwell was immense in the second half for Albany, Matt Moore continued to show his value at the back, while Nicolson and Jolly both had strong games for Taieri.
In the other game, Kings United steamrolled Uni Black Panthers with four goals in the first 10 minutes to finish up 11-0 ahead.
Competition leader Uni Blue Whales had the bye this week. The Whales played the Panthers midweek, in a catch-up match, and prevailed 4-0.
