Melbourne Victory proved too strong for Canberra United on Saturday afternoon, running out 2-0 winners thanks to goals from McKenzie Weinert and Kurea Okino.
Summary
The game began as a tense affair, with both teams looking to settle into the contest.
Victory though broke the deadlock in the 28th minute when McKenzie Weinert found the back of the net with a composed left-footed shot from the centre of the box, capitalising on an assist from Jamilla Rankin.
Canberra struggled to contain Victory’s attacking threat after the goal, as the hosts continued to create chances having taken the lead.
Rachel Lowe, Kurea Okino, and Alana Murphy all had opportunities to double the advantage, but Canberra did just enough to keep the scoreline at 1-0 going into the break.
The visitors stepped up their efforts to level the score after the break, but Victory’s defence remained resolute.
Canberra’s task became even more challenging in the 50th minute when goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln received a red card for a mistimed challenge just outside the box.
Victory took advantage of the numerical superiority and extended their lead in the 57th minute.
Kurea Okino showcased her clinical finishing, firing a right-footed shot from the right side of the box into the bottom left corner, assisted by Alana Murphy with a well-timed through ball.
Jeff Hopkins’ team were able to manage the game effectively from that point onwards, holding off any comeback potential to secure all three points.
The result extends Victory’s unbeaten run to six games and takes their season’s tally to 14 points.
Result
Melbourne Victory 2 (Weinert 28′, Okino 57′)
Canberra United 0
Next Match
Liberty A-League – Round 9
Melbourne City v Melbourne Victory
Saturday 23 December
Kick-off: 5.00pm (AEDT)
AAMI Park
