Melbourne Victory Women will look to continue their winning ways on the road when they take on Sydney FC in an exciting Big Blue clash.
Securing a solid 2-0 win in the ACT against Canberra United in round seven, Victory has the opportunity to climb their way further up the Ninja A-League ladder when taking on Sydney FC this Saturday in a Big Blue doubleheader.
In recent years, the results between the two sides have slightly favoured Sydney FC – who have won four out of the last nine matches since 2021 compared to three for Victory, with the other two games finishing as draws.
However, Victory will take comfort in their clashes with the Sky Blues in last season’s campaign; drawing the first game in Melbourne and most famously defeating their opponents 4-0 at Leichhardt Oval in the final round of the season, ultimately preventing Sydney FC from winning the Premiership.
Melbourne Victory:
Solidifying their third position on the Ninja A-League ladder after a strong performance against Canberra United, Victory will come into round eight keen to add another three points to their tally.
Nicki Flannery will be one to watch for Victory, rewarded with her first goal for the club last weekend after an excellent start to the season. Similarly, midfielder Sara D’Appolonia will also be on cloud nine after opening her account in Navy Blue since joining the club last season.
While Victory’s attack has produced excellent moments of quality this season, the defensive solidity of the side is also important to note.
Captain Kayla Morrison, Claudia Bunge, Courtney Newbon, new signing Ellie Wilson and Beattie Goad have formed a strong defensive unit under Jeff Hopkins’ guidance – conceding the tied second least amount of goals so far this season in the Ninja A-League with just eight.
Sydney FC:
The reigning champions have experienced a tough start to the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season, currently sitting rock-bottom of the ladder with just four points collected from seven rounds.
Despite this poor record for the Sky Blues’ standards, Ante Juric’s side possesses a side full of quality all across the park.
Captain Nat Tobin and Jordan Thompson form a solid partnership at centre-back for Sydney, while former Brighton WSL midfielder Mackenzie Hawkesby is a particular standout in the middle of the park.
The recently made all-time appearance record holder for Sydney FC, Princess Ibini will pose a threat off the wing, looking to create chances for Millie Farrow upfront – eager to score her first goal in Sky Blue colours since joining from Perth Glory in the off-season.
Round Eight – Melbourne Victory FC Squad:
2. Ellie WILSON, 3. Claudia BUNGE, 4. Sara D’APPOLONIA, 5. Sofia SAKALIS, 6. Beattie GOAD, 7. Ella O’GRADY, 8. Alana MURPHY, 10. Alex CHIDIAC, 11. Nicki FLANNERY, 15. Emily GIELNIK, 18. Kayla MORRISON, 22. Ava BRIEDIS, 23. Rachel LOWE, 24. Laura PICKETT, 27. Rosie CURTIS, 50. Courtney NEWBON, 62. Geo CANDY, 66. Alana JANCEVSKI
Ins:
Outs: nil
Unavailable: nil
Match Details
Sydney FC vs Melbourne Victory
Saturday 28 December
4:50pm
Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Broadcast: Paramount+ How To Watch
