It was a game that provided drama, tribulation and disappointment.

The team required one win from the remaining two games for a spot in the final play-off series. But that wasn't to happen.

The Saints were a few players squat, with only two players on the bench, hoping that this would see them into the final series.

Things got off to a great start, with Jack Nulty continuing his rampaging runs down the wing, crossing to Tobias Schmidt, who sent a rocket flying into the back of the net.

North United pushed the Saints for the rest of the half and managed to score two quick goals with poor defensive work by the Saints.

The half-time break saw the Saints two to one down and the mood was sombre in the club rooms. Former Saints superstar Martin Sokolai gave the Saints some tactical advice and inspired a spirited second-half comeback.

The intrepid Susie Fox entered the arena and Toneka Costa moved into midfield to provide firepower and flair.

The Saints scored the first goal of the second half, courtesy of Jack Nulty, who was set up by some neat work by Dylan Nulty.

Hudson Beare and Dylan Nulty were proving hot, with Tobias and Toneka providing quality support.

Susie Fox was in everything and made good passes through to midfield.

However, in the 65th minute mark the unthinkable happened. Against the run of play, North United danced its way though midfield and played a sharp pass through to their striker.

Ivan Carter and Nick Jansen had a communication breakdown, allowing the North United striker to smash home an easy shot for 10 yards out. The players immediately dropped their heads, until Dwight Beare found his voice and urged the team to push on for the required win.

The midfield found another gear, with Dylan, Jack and Tobias running their guts out for everything. Eventually the Saints found an opening, which resulted in North United giving away a penalty.

Up stepped Tobias Schmidt, who slotted home to make the score three-goals apiece.

The remaining 10 minutes was end-to-end action, with both teams coming close, including shots from Hudson Beare and Jack Nulty that had the keeper scrambling.

It was the time that beat both teams in the end, with the score locked at three goals each. Everyone did their best to get the much-needed win, but now the Saints need to defeat VicPark next week to be absolutely certain of a finals berth.

Score: 3-3

Goals: Tobias Schmidt 2, Jack Nulty 1

Best: Dylan Nulty, Jack Nulty, Hudson Beare, Toneka Costa, Tobias Schmidt