Melbourne Victory made a successful start to the 2026 VPL campaign, persevering to defeat newly-promoted Eltham Redbacks.
Opening the new season at The Home of The Matildas on Monday night, Victory were good value for the three points, taking the game to the visitors, who best threatened from a dangerous long-throw weapon.
The home team went ahead early, striking in just the fifth minute through 18-year-old Mikey Ghossaini, whose low right-footed finish beat the goalkeeper through a crowd of bodies.
Experienced defender Tremayne Sadler headed the Redbacks level before half-time, but Victory would bag a crucial go-ahead goal as the hour-mark approached through winger Jordan Hoey. The Australian Under-17 international was the beneficiary of fine flank play to convert an accurate cutback.
Eltham believed they had equalised again, however, a foul was awarded on goalkeeper Daniel Graskoski, as the hosts claimed the Round 1 win.
Match details are available by clicking here.
Speaking to MelbourneVictory.com.au, Senior Academy Head Coach, Besart Berisha,
“I am extremely proud. The boys have worked very hard over the last 18 weeks.
“It was a great game, we created a lot of chances. Even when we conceded the goal, we played really well, kept going and got the winning goal. We deserved the win.”
