The shootout at Strathdale had six goals scored in regulation time, resulting in a 3-3 deadlock after Shepparton SC clawed back a two-goal, half-time deficit.
Even after a gruelling extra-time finish in the Bendigo heat, the two fired-up squads ‒ both reduced to 10 men ‒ could not be split with a goal apiece scored.
Finally, United managed to break the shackles, prevailing 4-2 in the resulting penalty shootout.
Marcus Thomas scored a brace as United booked a semi-final berth against Shepparton South.
“It was a cracking game, I didn’t expect that intensity in such an early-season game,” coach Roven Shaholli said.
“Both teams started out really strong. They were really coming at us (in the second half), so for us to hold the way we did ... it was hard to fault anyone on the team.”
Meanwhile, Shepparton South’s Craig Mathieson broke a nil-all deadlock at half-time of the black and white brigade’s clash against Strathdale to set up the scheduled May 18 semi-final against United.
Eaglehawk’s 5-0 win over Golden City and Swan Hill’s 3-0 triumph against Strathfieldsaye also allowed them to progress to the semis.
In the meantime, all eyes turn to McEwen Reserve next Sunday for the much-anticipated season opener between Shepparton South and Shepparton United, while reigning champion Tatura hosts Shepparton SC at Howley Oval.
The Women’s League Cup quarter-finals had Tatura blast six goals past Shepparton South thanks to a hat-trick from Delana Trask and a brace for Mia Calder.
The Ibises look poised to tackle Shepparton United in the semi-finals after United sent La Trobe University packing 4-0.
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