MetroStars won the blockbuster. Now they sit on top of NPL SA

MetroStars seized control of the NPL SA title race after defeating league leaders WT Birkalla 3-1 in a heavyweight Round 17 showdown.

Hamish Gow delivered when it mattered most, scoring twice to inspire the home side to a statement victory, while Michael Cittadini was also on target.

The result saw MetroStars leapfrog Birkalla and move to the summit at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Birkalla, who entered the round on top, slipped to third but remain only two points off the pace in an increasingly tight title race.

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Adelaide City are now the closest challengers, albeit on goal difference, after moving into second with a 2-0 win over relegation-threatened Para Hills Knights.

First-half goals from Yuki Kitano and Francesco Schimizzi secured the points for City, who also sit two points behind MetroStars heading into the run home.

FK Beograd continued their impressive form with a dramatic 1-0 victory over West Adelaide. Daniel Atkinson scored the decisive goal in the 87th minute to deliver another valuable three points.

Sturt Lions also claimed a narrow victory, overcoming Playford City 1-0, while Pasia John scored twice as Croydon City produced the biggest win of the round with a 4-1 rout of Adelaide Comets.

Elsewhere, Adelaide United and Campbelltown City could not be separated in a 0-0 draw.