A red-card collapse, a stoppage-time penalty and a new league leader

Canberra Croatia reclaimed top spot in the NPL Capital Football competition with a 2-0 victory over nine-man Brindabella Blues.

Shandon Whitehead starred with a first-half brace as Croatia took control early before Brindabella's afternoon unravelled.

David Gurney and David Rodriguez were both sent off, leaving the second-bottom side to finish the contest with nine men as the league leaders collected another important three points while in-form Monaro Panthers had the bye.

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The drama wasn't confined to the summit. Tigers FC rescued a dramatic 2-2 draw against Queanbeyan City thanks to Golden Boot leader Aidan Milicevic, who converted a 96th-minute penalty after the visitors had scored twice in four minutes to turn the game on its head by the 75th minute.

Tuggeranong United edged Belconnen United 1-0 to strengthen their position in the top four, while Canberra Juventus recorded a 2-0 victory over O'Connor Knights.

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Canberra Olympic also picked up three valuable points, overcoming bottom side Canberra White Eagles 2-1.