Melbourne Victory couldn’t quite find a way past Melbourne Knights in windy and slippery conditions at The Home of Matildas in Round 15 of VPL1.
In the midst of a three-game undefeated run heading into Monday night, the Boys in Blue had a big test against the top of the table Melbourne Knights.
Enjoying the strong wind advantage in the first half of action, it would be the Knights to strike first in the 23rd minute, thanks to Nathan Flanagan.
While the game settled, with progressively gaining control and creating more chances in the second 45, a rapid counter-attack finished by former Victory midfielder Luka Kolic doubled Knights’ lead.
Despite trailing by two goals, the Young Vucks refused to drop their heads and kept pushing for a result, finding reward in the 91st minute after Jordan Hoey’s beautiful dribble between two defenders saw the ball fall to the feet of Mikey Ghossaini, who slotted home a composed finish into the bottom corner.
However, while Victory would put together a few promising attacks in the remaining minutes, it would be the visitors to come away with all three points on the night.
Match details are available by clicking here.
Speaking to MelbourneVictory.com.au, Senior Academy Head Coach, Besart Berisha, was encouraged by what he saw from his team, despite the visitors coming away with the win.
“Naturally, we are very disappointed not to come away with any points against the team sitting first on the league table. I thought we were the better side for large periods of the match, controlled many moments of the game, and created the clearer chances.
“Despite the result, I am proud of what football brand we showed against a top opponent. We will take the positives, learn from the small details, and continue moving forward together.”
