Giovanni Savarese felt it was two points dropped after Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City could not be split on Saturday night.
The first Melbourne Derby of the 2026/27 season was the headline clash of Matchweek 2 in the A-League Men, but the bragging rights were saved for another day.
Keegan Jelacic’s early strike at AAMI Park had Victory on course for a third straight win in the fixture until Andrew Nabbout’s second-half equaliser.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Savarese delivered an honest assessment of a contest that featured chances to take all three points.
“It feels like two points dropped. I think we had a very good first half. Second half, we were not as sharp or as fluid as we were in the first half.
“Their substitutions change them; they start getting a little bit more of the ball, but I still think that we’re defending well. And actually, we probably had the better chances also in the second half to put the game away.
“We continue to be better. I saw some very, very good things today from us, especially in the first half. I think our football was very good, and it’s unfortunate not to be able to get three points.”
The Head Coach also shared some reflections on his first taste of the Melbourne Derby.
“I’ve been very fortunate so far to have a final in the Australia Cup, to participate in the Champions League, and to be part of this derby.
“These are beautiful moments for a coach, for someone who loves the game, for someone who is competitive, and being in these derbies is the most important thing for the fans. They really matter. It’s a privilege for us to participate, and it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t deliver the three points for our fans.”
Watch the full press conference below.
