Melbourne Victory has continued its strong run of results in the Foxtel National Youth League, downing Perth Glory 3-2 at Ashfield Sports Club on Sunday.
Victory fielded a youthful starting XI, with Lucas Spinella taking the reigns in goal, whilst upfront Pierce Waring and John Maclean looked to lend support to Joey Katebian, who lead the line.
Stefan Nigro got Victory on its way in the 18th minute when he found the back of the net, before two goals in as many minutes from captain Katebian extended Victory’s lead early in the first half.
Perth Glory responded to Melbourne’s early first-half flurry with two goals of their own, courtesy of Mitchell Oxborrow and Stefan Valentini, ensuring Victory would only take a one-goal lead into the break.
The second half didn’t feature any scoring, however it wasn’t from a lack of trying from either side, in an expansive, attacking display of football.
Speaking after the game, Katebian said he was happy to get the three points from one of the longest road trips his side will face this year.
“The goals are a bonus, I’m happy to get on the scoresheet but I just wanted to get the win, especially away from home, it’s a long trip,” Katebian said.
A healthy run of results has Katebian looking ahead to the next game, where Victory will face Melbourne City at CB Smith Reserve on December 20.
“We have got to win the rest of the games (this season) to try and get top of the table, so we are looking for three points.”
Melbourne Victory 3 (Nigro 18′, Katebian 20’/21′)
Perth Glory 2 (Oxborrow 35′, Valentini 45′)