CAMPBELLTOWN, Australia (Interstat) — In a dramatic conclusion that defied pregame projections, Macarthur and Perth Glory played to a 2-2 draw in their A-League season opener Friday at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

The match, which saw three goals in the final half-hour, culminated in a stoppage-time equalizer that split the points between the two sides. The result left both clubs with identical records to start the new campaign: 0 wins, 0 losses and 1 draw.

The game unfolded in stark contrast to statistical forecasts. Data firm Interstat had simulated a 2-1 victory for the home side and gave Macarthur an 85.30 percent probability of winning based on its ELO rating system. Instead, the teams delivered a tense, back-and-forth contest.

Perth Glory, the visiting side, struck first against the run of play. Midfielder Nicholas Pennington, entering the match as a substitute, made an immediate impact by breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute. His goal sent the visitors into halftime with a surprising 1-0 advantage.

Macarthur responded forcefully after the break. Veteran forward Mitch Duke leveled the score in the 60th minute, providing the home side with a crucial momentum shift. The Bulls then appeared to seize control of the match when defender Callum Talbot found the net in the 71st minute, completing the turnaround and putting Macarthur ahead 2-1.

As the match entered its final moments, Macarthur seemed poised to validate the pregame predictions. However, Perth Glory demonstrated resilience deep into second-half stoppage time. Substitute Stefan Colakovski emerged as the hero for the visitors, scoring in the 90th minute to snatch a dramatic point on the road and stun the home supporters.

The match was not without disciplinary incidents. Macarthur midfielder Luke Brattan received the game’s only yellow card in the 33rd minute, just minutes before Perth opened the scoring. Brattan later contributed offensively, recording an assist on one of Macarthur’s two goals.

The draw represents a solid, if unexpected, away result for Perth Glory to begin their season. For Macarthur, the late concession will feel like two points dropped after holding a lead so close to full time. Both teams will look to build on the performance and secure their first victory of the A-League season in their upcoming fixtures.

The match was the first of the 2026 A-League season for both clubs, setting an early tone of competitiveness in the Australian top flight.