Starting XI
Report
It was much of a back-and-forth between the two teams to start the match. Both Victory and Western trading possessions and both unable to find their way into the opposition box easily.
An early chance came Victory’s way in the 4th minute when Jake Brimmer’s corner cross found Damien Da Silva in the box.
The big defender’s header seemingly ricocheted off a Western United player’s arm, with screams of handball coming from the crowd. However, after a quick VAR check, no handball was given.
Victory’s defence held strong for much of the first half, with the back four thwarting any chance that Western had.
With only minutes remaining until the half, Western took the lead. Daniel Penha found the back of the net in the 43rd minute.
The second half started much like the first, with both teams trading possession.
In the 53rd minute, Western United were given a chance to double their lead after being awarded a penalty. Ben Garuccio was brought down in the box.
But up steps Paul Izzo. The Victory keeper saved the spot kick to keep his team in the contest.
Finally, the breakthrough came from Ben Folami in the 70th minute. Bruno Fornaroli’s low cross from the right side of the box was pin-point perfect to find Folami. The winger made no mistake from point-blank range to level the scores with 30 minutes left to find a winner.
With a goal on the board, Tony Popovic’s side started to fire up. Our boys in blue lifted the pressure and started to take control of the match.
And then, in the 79th minute, Ikon gave us the lead. Chris Ikonomidis found the back of the next for the first time this season bringing Victory back in front.
As time ticked down, Victory looked to hold on to another thrilling comeback against Western United.
But in the 90th minute, Western’s Ben Garuccio found himself with space in the box and levelled the scores once again.
The final whistle blew and the points were shared at AAMI Park.
Our boys in blue will look to get back on the winner’s list when Perth Glory makes the trip to Melbourne after the international break.
Next Match
Melbourne Victory v Perth Glory
Date: Sun 31 Mar
Time: 3pm
Location: AAMI Park
Tickets: http://mvf.club/almrd22
