Melbourne Victory secured a second straight win and clean sheet on the road, defeating Sydney FC 1-0 at Allianz Stadium.
In Beattie Goad’s last match of professional football, Victory got off to a strong start, enjoying possession and territorial dominance.
Victory’s wingers were key to their attacking play, notably with Nicki Flannery earning a free kick on the edge of the box that was nearly converted by Alana Jancevski.
Alana Murphy almost secured another assist from a corner, delivering an excellent ball to the back post narrowly headed wide by Captain Kayla Morrison.
With such control over the game in the early doors, it was only a bound of time before Victory would find an opening.
That would come in the form of a penalty earned by Alex Chidiac, who was taken out in the box after reacting first to a loose ball.
Alana Jancevski made no mistake when converting the spot kick, slotting the ball right into the side netting for her third goal of the season.
Victory were able to largely keep control of the remainder of the half, preventing any clear-cut chances for the home side. Some dangerous corner deliveries from Alana Murphy threatened to double their lead heading into the break, capping off another excellent half on the road by Jeff Hopkins’ side.
The second 45 was crucial for Victory in maintaining their lead, focusing on their defensive efforts to minimise space for Sydney’s attacking talents.
Ante Juric’s team took a more attacking approach to chase the game as it progressed, with Victory’s rock-solid defence proving tough to beat for the home side. Sydney were limited to just four shots in the second half, with only a singular effort on target.
Strong defensive efforts from the backline prevented any clear chances for the Sky Blues, while substitutes Ella O’Grady and Ava Briedis entered the game in the latter stages to provide energy and a counter-attacking threat.
Victory were able to successfully see out the remainder of the game, securing a hard-fought one-nil win in the Big Blue.
Not only was the result crucial in Victory’s pursuit of the top spot in the Ninja A-League ladder, but it represented a truly special send-off for Beattie Goad in her final game before retiring from football – an exceptional contributor in all her years at the club.
Victory’s Women will return after the new year back in Melbourne, facing the Western Sydney Wanderers on January 5.
Tickets for Melbourne Victory vs Western Sydney Wanderers as available at Ticketek.
