NPL NNSW leaders survive, Gueli stays red-hot and Charlestown spark comeback of the round

Weston Bears are still top of NPL Northern NSW, but the pressure keeps building.

The league leaders were forced to come from behind twice in a hard-fought 2-2 draw away to Edgeworth Eagles after also navigating Australia Cup football during the week.

But once again, Marco Gueli stole the spotlight.

The German-born Belmont Swansea United striker struck in a 2-1 victory over in-form Lambton Jaffas, taking his tally to a ridiculous 16 goals in nine matches.

At this point, he might be the hottest striker in Australia.

Elsewhere, Newcastle Olympic dismantled Valentine 6-1 behind a Kale Bradbury hat-trick, while bottom side Cooks Hill United produced one of the surprises of the round with a 3-1 win over Adamstown Rosebud.

The comeback of the weekend belonged to Charlestown Azzurri.

Following a turbulent week that saw head coach James Pascoe and assistant Scott McCarter depart, new boss Josh Rufo watched his side recover from 2-0 down to stun Maitland FC 3-2 away from home, sealing the winner in the final minute.

And quietly, Broadmeadow Magic are looming again.

The two-time defending champions defeated Kahibah FC 3-1 to close the gap on Weston at the top.