Women’s Match Report: Victory fall short in Derby clash

The first Derby of the season ended in defeat for Melbourne Victory, as an early Emina Ekic goal secured a 1-0 win for Melbourne City.

Summary

A superb afternoon set the scene for a hotly anticipated clash, with both teams having made strong starts to the season.

Right from the start, the pace was set for an exciting encounter.

It was City though who landed the first major blow.

Emina Ekic stepped up in the 10th minute, finding the back of the net with a precise left-footed shot from the centre of the box, placing the ball in the bottom left corner.

City continued to press forward after taking the lead, but the Victory defence showed plenty of resilience to withstand the pressure.

Victory goalkeeper Lydia Williams made several important saves throughout the half, before requiring treatment not long before the break, although fortunately the veteran was able to continue.

As the first half neared its conclusion, Victory had a chance to level the score, with Kayla Morrison’s header from the centre of the box narrowly missing to the right.

The score remained 1-0 at the break, with Victory needing an improved second 45 to get back into the game.

Jeff Hopkins’ team started the second half brightly, with Rachel Lowe striking the post with a right-footed shot soon after the re-start.

The physicality of the game increased in the second 45, with chances becoming more difficult to create for both teams.

Kurea Okino’s attempt from the left side of the box after an hour played was narrowly blocked, as City continued to hold onto their slender lead.

Lia Privitelli, Sara D’Appolonia and Emma Checker were all brought off the bench as Victory continued to hunt an equaliser, but the goal remained elusive.

Ultimately though there was no way through for Hopkins’ team, with the early City goal proving decisive.

A first loss in seven games for Victory, who will look to rebound in their last game of the year against Western Sydney Wanderers.