(Image: Keep Up/A -League)
Coming into the game, Melbourne City were looking to re-group after a tough loss against Western Sydney Wanderers, whilst the inconsistent Adelaide United was desperate to keep in touch with the top four.
Melbourne City almost had the perfect start, with Leah Davidson whizzing through Adelaide’s defensive third, passing a perfect ball to Bryleeh Henry and finding Hannah Wilkinson in the box, with the goal just missing at the back of the net.
Whilst the Reds applied the pressure, limiting City’s space and making it difficult for City’s defence to get the ball down the pitch, Fiona Worts provided energy in attack, with Dylan Holmes dominating in attack.
United lifted their intensity, which caused problems for City to find options long and down the field, forcing them to play wide and sideways.
Adelaide had eight total shots, five of which were on target, but was unable to find numbers and options forward and finish in front of goal.
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With Bryleeh Henry efficient around the ball, using her pace down the field and finding clear options, City dominated possession in the first half, 61 per cent to United’s 39 per cent. City dominated in the first half with clearances (5-2) and interceptions (7-5).
Melbourne had the perfect start to the second half, kicking the first goal of the match in the 47th minute, with Rhiannon Pollicina and Henry linking up in attack to find Daniela Galic, who kicked the ball straight ahead and went through the net.
City increased their intensity and momentum, forcing the Reds into inaccurate passes and didn’t allow them to connect in attack. City made their the most of their opportunities, continuing to run and attack and find those connections.
City’s second goal came from Leticia McKenna, having a direct kick in front of goal. It was her first goal in City colours to give City a 2-0 advantage.
Caitlin Karic had a huge influence on the game, bringing energy coming off the bench, and added the cherry on top, kicking City’s third goal.
Melbourne City host Melbourne Victory in the first derby for the season in their second game of the round at Casey Fields on Saturday. While Adelaide United travels to Brisbane to take on the Roar at A.J. Kelly Park on Sunday.
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