A tense Melbourne Derby played in hot conditions ended with a point for each team, as Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City’s second meeting of the season ended in a 0-0 draw.
Report
A healthy crowd packed into The Home of the Matildas for what was a high-stakes Derby game, with both teams vying for top spot on the A-League Women’s ladder late in the season.
The hot conditions ensured it was a physical contest, with neither team afforded much space when in possession.
The Victory defence held up well to some early pressure, with City’s press making it difficult to progress the ball.
Jeff Hopkins’ team started to build some momentum after the drinks break as they started to pose a real threat down both wings.
Jamilla Rankin came as close as anyone just minutes before the break, with her attempt from long-range rattling the crossbar.
Despite Victory’s strong finish to the half, scores remained level at the half-time break.
City started the second half much like they did the first, applying plenty of early pressure.
Once again though, the Victory defence withstood the barrage and were able to gradually wrestle control back of the contest.
Lia Privitelli, Rosie Curtis and Ava Briedis were all brought into the game as the second half progressed, with Victory continuing to hunt the winning goal.
Emily Gielnik came closest, firing attempts on goal on several occasions, but each time narrowly missed out.
The tension remained high right up to the final whistle, with both teams having chances to win the game in the dying moments.
Ultimately, neither side were able to find the breakthrough goal.
The game finished 0-0, with both teams remaining in the race for top spot with finals football on the horizon.
Next Match
Newcastle Jets v Melbourne Victory
Date: Sat 23 Mar
Time: 4:00pm
Location: No. 2 Sportsground
