Honours even as Canberra earn draw against Melbourne Victory

A draw between finals-hunting Melbourne Victory and Canberra ended a W-League weekend where Sydney FC continued their premiership charge.

In a tight tussle at Epping Stadium, Nicki Flannery's first half stoppage-time equaliser cancelled out Angie Beard's early opener for Victory as Sunday's match ended in a 1-1 draw.

The result keeps Victory fourth on the ladder with Canberra just two points outside the last finals position in fifth place.

The hosts, chasing a fourth win on the trot, took the lead in just the ninth minute when a cross from Beard looped over Canberra goalkeeper Keeley Richards and into the net. The fortuitous strike was the 23-year-old's first goal in Victory colours.

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Canberra, who have now won just one of their past six fixtures, drew level in the second minute of added time when a slick passing move released Flannery who slotted past Victory goalkeeper Gaby Garton.

The visitors held on to claim a point despite a late rally in the second half from Victory, with Matildas veteran Lisa De Vanna coming closest to breaking the deadlock in the game's dying minutes.

The result keeps the race for fourth position wide open with both teams still having four matches left to play before finals. Sydney, on the other hand, are now five points clear with just three games to play at the top of the ladder after thrashing last-placed Perth Glory 6-2 on Thursday.