Melbourne Victory Women kept their Premiership hopes alive by defeating the Central Coast Mariners in Gosford.
Introducing the returning New Zealand international Claudia Bunge to the Starting XI, alongside Matildas midfielder Alana Murphy recovering from a knock – Jeff Hopkins made two changes to the lineup that beat the Wanderers.
Upon kick-off, all pressure was on Victory – needing to secure all three points to remain in Ninja A-League Premiership contention after Melbourne City continued their winning streak.
It was a tough start to the game on the Coast, with both sides wrestling for control.
Victory were required to defend valiantly against the home side in the opening stages, with Claudia Bunge in particular appearing with some critical defensive interventions upon her return to the centre of defence.
The Mariners had an excellent opportunity to open the scoring in the 17th minute, but Courtney Newbon’s crucial save with an outstretched leg ensured Victory remained level.
Both sides finished the half relatively balanced in most key statistical categories, seeking any edge over their opponents.
Finding their feet in the first 45, Victory re-entered the game after the break improved, pushing hard for the win.
The opener would come early in the half, thanks to a familiar scenario for Jeff Hopkins’ side.
Delivering a stunning in-swinging corner with her magical left foot, Alex Chidiac’s delivery into the back post found the head of Claudia Bunge – who rippled the back of the net for her second of the season.
It was a much-needed goal for the side, provided by a key member of the side who has impressed with her ability to threaten from set-pieces.
While Bunge rightfully receives the headlines for the goal, Alex Chidiac will certainly be pleased as she jumped to the top of Victory’s assist charts – registering her fifth of the season.
Firing their way into the lead, Victory aimed to balance the desire to double their lead along with securing their lead in the game.
Chances did arise for the Navy Blues, with moments of brilliance from Sara D’Appolonia and substitute Holly Furphy unable to be converted into goals.
Jeff Hopkins introduced youngster Laura Pickett late into the game as Victory dealt with the attacking barrages of the Mariners.
Earning a free-kick right on the edge of the box, a well-held save by Courtney Newbon was the vital juncture for Victory to see out the result – sealing her tenth clean sheet of the season.
Travelling to Gosford requiring all three points, Victory came out successful and displayed their relentless attitude and desire to achieve greatness.
The side extends their record-breaking winning streak to seven games, coming away with all six points from their two consecutive games in New South Wales.
Situated two points behind league leaders Melbourne City with one game remaining, the Premiership winners will ultimately be determined in the final round – a box office scenario with two top sides fighting for silverware.
Victory Women will play their final regular-season fixture in an AAMI Park doubleheader against Brisbane Roar on Saturday, April 19.
Match Details
Ninja A-League Round 22
Central Coast Mariners 0
Melbourne Victory 1 (Bunge 58′)
Central Coast Mariners Starting XI: 1. Sarah LANGMAN (GK), 4. Jessika NASH, 5. Annabel MARTIN (C), 6. Isabel GOMEZ, 7. Jade PENNOCK, 10. Taylor RAY, 11. Annalise RASMUSSEN, 13. Sarah ROWE, 14. Greta KRASZULA, 21. Brooke NUNN, 22. Peta TRIMIS
Substitutes: 20. Chloe CARMICHAEL (GK), 8. Bianca GALIC (59′), 12. Tiana FULLER (78′), 18. Taren KING (86′), 24. Shay EVANS (86′)
Melbourne Victory Starting XI: 50. Courtney NEWBON (GK), 2. Ellie WILSON, 3. Claudia BUNGE, 8. Alana MURPHY, 10. Alex CHIDIAC, 11. Nicki FLANNERY, 13. Sara D’APPOLONIA, 15. Emily GIELNIK, 18. Kayla MORRISON (C), 23. Rachel LOWE, 66. Alana JANCEVSKI
Substitutes: 62. Geo CANDY (GK), 7. Ella O’GRADY, 9. Holly FURPHY (75′), 24. Laura PICKETT (86′), 27. Rosie CURTIS
