Harry Kewell made sure his last performance of a 19-year career was memorable, despite Melbourne Heart losing 3-2 to Western Sydney Wanderers at AAMI Park.

Kewell, who grew up kicking a football around western Sydney’s suburban parks, fought valiantly in his final match after 19 years as a professional footballer.

His career has many fairytale moments – two World Cups with the Socceroos, a Premier League move, and a Champions League and FA Cup medal amongst them – but his final appearance would not be one.

The Wanderers scored twice in the final 10 minutes to earn themselves a 3-2 last-round victory, and the crucial second place on the final standings.

The match had all the dramas of Kewell’s long career – perhaps without the injuries.

Were this a mid-season match, Jarred Gillett’s refereeing, Orlando Engelaar’s bullet like goal for the Heart or the field-entering celebrations from the Wanderers bench might have captured headlines.

But this was Kewell’s night and the Wanderers’ joy was for another day.

His performance was selfless, winning headers all night and playing for the team rather than himself.

Two pieces of magic within five first-half minutes reminded all of his ability.

First, with a ball pinged to his feet in midfield, Kewell opted to dummy rather than trap – playing Mate Dugandzic into a one-on-one chance that no-one else saw.

Then despite playing as a centre forward, Kewell reacquainted himself with the left midfield position he played so many times in the Premier League a decade ago.

Winning a challenge on the flank, he set off down the wing and arced a beautiful cross behind the Wanderers defence.

His assist shortly after showed his quick thinking again, winning a foul and playing in Engelaar who was good enough to finish from 25 metres.

Kewell could have got on the scoresheet but for a wonderful Ante Covic save from his volley. The 35-year-old said it would cost him the chance to party with him on Saturday night.

Instead, he will be joined by Engelaar and company, as long as the 200-centimetre tall Dutchman does not repeat his goal celebrations.

“He was running towards me and when you see a giant like that running, you’re thinking ‘please don’t jump on me’,” Kewell said.

“It looked awkward so I just jumped on him.”

Source: AAP.