It took seven games but United is on the board and in with a fighting chance after the breakthrough win.

Down 2-1 in the dying moments, Ben Deleo levelled the match before David Loshciavo won and converted a penalty in the last minute of stoppage time.

The win moves Essendon to 11th on the ladder with five points, ahead of last-placed Maribyrnong Greens on four and behind ninth and tenth-placed teams Melbourne University Rangers and Cairnlea on six each.

United coach Norm Mancuso felt the win was no less than his side deserved after what he believed was a contentious build-up to Westgate's opening goal.

Mancuso said one of his players was elbowed in the face and lying on the ground as the referee let play continue, Westgate capitalising as the fallen man played its attackers onside for the opening goal.

"There was a lot of celebration, the boys were pretty happy they were able to battle through," Mancuso said.

"I didn't think at any stage we were without a chance, a few tactical changes late on worked."

John Camburn scored the opening goal for United while Deleo's well-hit half volley levelled the scores late on.

Losciavo sent Westgate's goalkeeper the wrong way with his penalty kick.

"Until last week (6-1 loss to Hume United) we've had opportunities and not been able to take them. It's about grinding out results," Mancuso said.

"It's great that the win is under the belt but it's now about building on this change."

In provisional 1 north-west Avondale Heights is still a model of perfection after a seventh straight win opened a five-point lead at the top of the table.

Goals to Marin Jancic, Andrew Sacchetta and Damian Cooke led Avondale Heights to a 3-1 win away at Corio.

The Heights' 21 points gives it a big buffer on 16-point Laverton Park in second.

Corio's goal was just the third Avondale Heights has conceded this season, giving it the second best defence in the six provisional leagues. Only division 2 south-east team Ashburton has conceded fewer, two goals.

AROUND THE GROUNDS

Provisional one north-west: Whittlesea United 4 FC Strathmore 3

Provisional two north-west: Collingwood City 1 Melbourne Tornado 1

Provisional three south-east: Essendon Royals 1 (Daniel Costabile) Keysborough 2

Metro north-west: Keon Park 1 Ascot Vale 2