Melbourne Victory Falls Short in Tough Contest Against Western United.
The early minutes set the tone for an attacking display, with Paige Zois showcasing her goal-scoring intent in the 2nd minute. A right-footed shot from the centre of the box was expertly saved by the Western United goalkeeper, denying Victory an early lead.
Zois remained a threat, attempting another right-footed shot from outside the box in the 9th minute, only to face a similar fate as the keeper made another crucial save.
Despite offensive efforts, Western United took the lead in the 32nd minute. Keiwa Hieda capitalized on a well-executed through ball from Grace Maher, finding the bottom right corner with a precise left-footed shot.
The visitors extended their lead just two minutes later, as Adriana Taranto slotted home a right-footed shot from the six-yard box, assisted by Chloe Logarzo.
The momentum shifted further in the 39th minute when a delay occurred due to an injury to Jessika Nash. The setback prompted a substitution, with Tori Hansen replacing Nash. Unfortunately, injury concerns persisted, leading to another change at halftime. Courtney Newbon stepped in for Lydia Williams, making her debut for the Club.
The challenges continued in the second half as Emma Checker conceded a penalty in the 59th minute. Chloe Logarzo stepped up confidently, converting the penalty with a right-footed shot into the bottom right corner, stretching Western United’s lead to 0-3.
The uphill battle became steeper in the 69th minute when Logarzo secured her brace with a left-footed shot from the centre of the box, assisted by Adriana Taranto.
Despite facing adversity, our girls in blue demonstrated great resilience. Rachel Lowe unleashed a powerful right-footed shot from outside the box, finding the bottom left corner and providing a glimmer of hope for the home side in the 78th minute. However, time was running out for a comeback.
In the dying moments of the match, Melbourne Victory’s Kayla Morrison attempted a right-footed shot from outside the box in the 90+7th minute. The effort was saved in the bottom left corner, and with that, the final whistle blew, sealing a 1-4 victory for Western United.
Next
Liberty A-League – Round 12
Melbourne Victory v Perth Glory
Friday 12 January
Kick-off: 5.00pm (AEDT)
Leichhardt Oval, Sydney
