Melbourne Victory kept their cool and fought off an Avondale comeback to come out on top of a five-goal game in the NPLW.
An eventful first 45 saw each team strike twice at The Home of The Matildas on Sunday lunchtime, as the Girls in Blue surrendered their 2-0 advantage to end the half level.
Victory went ahead when Ella O’Grady added a cool finish to Fiorina Iaria’s ball in behind before Emily Rutkowski’s edge-of-the-box drive picked out the bottom corner to double the advantage after 15 minutes.
The Avengers would, however, break back just moments later, through 125-time New Zealand international Hannah Wilkinson’s neat effort, and drew level courtesy of another smart conversion, this time from young American attacker Sloane Young.
Refreshed following the interval, Victory tightened up defensively and found the winning goal 16 minutes from time. Sienna Techera cut in from the left and scored superbly, sending a right-footed attempt in off the far post.
Match details are available by clicking here.
Speaking to MelbourneVictory.com.au, NPLW Head Coach, Santi Escudero, assessed another strong display from the Victory players.
“It was pleasing to see the team dominate the first half with a high press and superior ball possession. Even when Avondale scored, we remained solid to our plans against a contender for the championship.
“After the break, we made some adjustments to cause the opposition different problems, took charge of winning second balls, and it was a fantastic goal from Sienna Techera to win us the match.
“I hope the players can take real confidence from their performance, and the intensity and maturity they showed.”
