W-League wrap: Victory claims stunning Derby win

Melbourne Victory

Melbourne Victory claimed a stunning 2-1 win over City in the Westfield W-League Derby at Epping Stadium on Sunday.

Another screamer from Melina Ayres and Christina Gibbons’ winner saw Victory to its success.

A Laura Alleway own goal had put City ahead in the 63rd minute, but Victory fought back for an incredible win.

While City enjoyed most of the possession in the opening 45 minutes, it created little.

Alleway and Kristen McNabb controlled proceedings in the centre of defence and Victory looked dangerous on the counter-attack.

Natasha Dowie had two efforts at goal, including drawing a save from City goalkeeper Lydia Williams in the 37th minute.

City pushed to begin the second half and took a 63rd-minute lead, a set-piece eventually going in off Alleway.

But Victory responded as Ayres struck with a stunning goal for the second time in as many games.

The attacker won the ball 35 yards from goal and opted to shoot, catching Williams off her line to make it 1-1.

Victory found a winner through Gibbons, the midfielder on hand to sweep in from inside the area after a Dowie effort fell into her path.

Westfield W-League 2017/18 Round 11
Melbourne Victory 2
(Melina Ayres 71′, Christina Gibbons 86′)
City 1 (Laura Alleway og 63′)