A sublime first half performance was the key as Melbourne Victory secured a huge three points by defeating Wellington Phoenix at the Home of the Matildas.
In what promised to be an enthralling encounter, Victory took on Wellington in their first game since the international break, hoping to continue their strong recent run of form.
The match kicked off with Victory immediately asserting their dominance, pushing forward with a series of attacks.
In the 10th minute, Victory drew first blood as Beattie Goad found the back of the net with a clinical header, capitalising on a swift counter-attack orchestrated by Emily Gielnik.
Wellington searched for a quick response, forcing a save from Courtney Newbon in the Victory goal soon after the opening goal.
However, Jeff Hopkin’s team continued to dictate the tempo, earning a flurry of corner kicks as they searched for a second goal.
Their persistence paid off in the 17th minute when Tori Hansen doubled her team’s lead, finishing off a corner at the back post.
Victory though continued to pile the pressure on the visitors, adding a third and fourth goal before the half-time whistle.
The returning Goad secured her brace, also finding herself in space at the back of the pack during a corner routine ten minutes before the break.
The fourth goal was perhaps the best of the lot, as Alex Chidac struck the ball from outside the box, with the ball rebounding off the crossbar, onto the back of the Phoenix goalkeeper, and into the back of the net.
4-0 the scoreline at the break in what was a dominant Victory performance.
The second half began as a calmer affair following the hectic first 45 minutes.
Wellington reduced the deficit soon after the re-start, hinting at the possibility of a remarkable comeback.
However, Rachel Lowe put an end to any such hopes, scoring Victory’s fifth of the game soon after the hour mark.
A scintillating display from Victory, who looked as if they would see off the remainder of the contest with their commanding lead intact.
However, the Phoenix made a late charge, scoring twice in the final few minutes, leaving the final scoreline to read 5-3.
A thrilling game from start to finish, with Victory closing to within six points of the top of the A-League Women’s ladder.
Next Match
Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory
Date: Sat 9 Mar
Time: 5:00pm (AEDT)
Location: Coopers Stadium
