EXCLUSIVE: It's that day of eternal regret when you left the stadium early to beat the rush – that moment when the final kick of the ball breaks hearts and creates legends. Last weekend's A-League action saw two games decided in injury-time thanks to late goals from the Mariners’ Mitchell Duke and Ranko Despotovic for Sydney FC. We thought we’d countdown the best last-gasp winners over the course of the A-League. Do Duke and Despotovic’s goals rank among the Top 10?
1. ERIK PAARTALU
Brisbane Roar v Central Coast Mariners (2-2), Suncorp Stadium, Grand Final 2010-11
Not exactly a late ‘winner’ but it was a goal that secured the penalty shoot-out for Roar, who were consequently crowned victorious in the 2010-11 Grand Final. The Roar and the Mariners had been the two best sides all season and were bound to face-off in the A-League's showpiece event. But no one expected the Mariners to be leading 2-0 late into extra-time following a 0-0 draw at the end of the 90 minutes. Surely a comfortable lead! But Brisbane ensured the Central Coast were to have nightmares for many years to come with a stunning come-back. Henrique pulled a goal back on 117 minutes, before Erik Paartalu’s powerful header, with literally seconds on the clock, sent the game was headed to penalties. The rest is history.

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