A superb second half effort from Melbourne Knights saw the league leaders salvage a point against old foes South Melbourne at Bob Jane Stadium.

The match started positively for the boys in blue, solid periods of possession saw them creating a few half chances throughout the opening 20 minutes, although a well marshaled defense led by the experienced Steve Iosifidis prevented any direct route to goal.

As the first half progressed the Knights began to impose themselves more and more on the match, and were unlucky not to open the scoring in the 34th minute.

Barisic found himself with just the keeper to beat, however a courageous save from the Souths keeper denied the game an opening goal.

The ensuing corner was cleared well by the Souths defenders and allowed their midfielders to counter attack at pace.

A well played interchange of passing on the edge of the Knights 18 yard box saw the ball at the feet of Nathan Caldwell just 12 yards from goal.

He was fouled, earning South a penalty and Fernando De Moraes made no mistake from the spot establishing a well deserved lead for Souths.

The intensity of the match raised a few notches following the resumption of play, challenges now flying in thick and fast as both teams attempted to assert their physical presence.

Although a man down after a red card was given, Souths continued to surge forward following the half time interval, seemingly inspired by the loss of a team-mate.

Their determination to remain positive in their play reaped rewards in the 50th minute.

Gianni De Nittis latching on to a terrific thru ball, his first time strike finished with aplomb to double the Souths advantage.

The Knights, though stunned, still looked dangerous going forward and although now two goals down, they clearly knew the game was not beyond them.

Knights fans witness their teams opening goal on the hour mark.

Barisic reacted quickest to a loose ball in the penalty box to steer in a low drive and give the Knights hope of restoring parity.

Souths of course had their own ideas of sealing all three points and they went separately close just minutes later.

The game began to open up from this point, Souths looking for a goal to seal the match, but at the same time were leaving themselves open for attacks on the counter from the Knights.

In the 66th minute the Knights eventually capitalised on the space they were afforded by the Souths midfielders.

Play starting from defense saw Iosifidis feed the ball into five, whose slide rule pass found Ivan Franjic in space on the left flank.

His superb delivery was met with by James Timmons at the near post, his precise glancing header flying past the hapless Souths keeper and nestled in the far corner.

The final 20 minutes proved to be anti-climatic with neither team able to conjure up a late chance to win the match, leaving scores level at 2-2.