Melbourne Victory will face a significant test on Friday night, as they head to Dunstan Reserve to take on Brunswick City in VPL1 action.
Match Details
Brunswick City v Melbourne Victory
Date: Friday 12 July
Time: 8.30pm (AEST)
Location: Dunstan Reserve
Preview
Every game is crucial as Melbourne Victory head into their final five games of the VPL1 season and Friday night’s tough assignment away to Brunswick City is no exception.
Victory come into the game in an improved mood, having made their return to the winners’ circle last time out.
Joe Palatsides’ team proved too strong for Werribee City on Sunday afternoon, with a goal in each half proving sufficient to claim all three points.
Victory controlled the majority of the contest, with Adem Duratović’s early goal giving the hosts a scoreline advantage for the majority of the game.
Despite having the better of general play, Victory struggled to shake off a dogged Werribee outfit, who threatened to pinch a point during the second 45.
However, Victory’s defence held firm, before a stoppage time goal from Marc Petheriotis wrapped up the three points.
The win ensured Victory maintained their four point lead on top of the VPL1 ladder, although Northcote City and Preston Lions remain hot on their heels.
Brunswick City meanwhile have endured a difficult few months, winning just one of their last 11 games.
Despite a strong start to the campaign, spearheaded by leading scorer Dylan Allshorn, Brunswick have dropped down to 12th position on the table.
Friday’s hosts nonetheless possess a demonstrated attacking threat and will be eager to ward off the growing threat of relegation.
Victory and Brunswick City played at Epping Stadium back in Round 9 of this season, where the league-leaders came away with a 2-1 win.
Victory will need to replicate that result if they are to keep their title charge on track heading into the final month of the campaign.
