Starting XI
Report
Both teams looked to dominate possession early with a back-and-forth between the sides to start the match.
But that didn’t last long. Emily Gielnik continued her scoring dominance after giving Victory the perfect start in the Pride Cup in the 9th minute.
A pinpoint corner cross from Paige Zois found Gielnik in amongst the chaos, who expertly headed the ball high into the top corner.
Adelaide had a golden chance in the 21st minute when Reds attacker Chelsie Dawber hit the crossbar only meters out from goal following a corner.
After a chaotic few minutes, Jeff Hopkins’ side found their composure as they looked to take back control of the match.
Emily Gielnik stepped up once again in the 32nd minute to double Victory’s lead with a stunning shot to beat the keeper.
A first-half brace from Em set up our girls in blue for a strong second half.
Adelaide came out the blocks firing in the second half, with poession becoming more even between the two sides.
Courtney Newbon was forced into action in the 59th minute when an Adelaide shot came agonisingly close, but the keeper was up to the task with a full stretch diving save to deny The Reds their chance.
As Adelaide looked increasingly more dangerous, enter Emily Gielnik.
The Matildas star slotted home her hat-trick in the 67th minute.
Just when things couldn’t get any worse for Adelaide, captian Kayla Morrison headed home Victory’s fourth of the night to well and truly secure the win for Victory.
The full-time whistle blew in what was a special night in Adelaide for the Pride Cup.
Next Match
Melbourne Victory v Melbourne City
Date: Sat 16 Mar
Time: 2:00pm
Location: Home of The Matildas
Tickets: http://mvf.club/alwmelbderby
