Melbourne City Snatch Late Victory Over Wellington Phoenix in A-League Round 6
Melbourne City secured a narrow 1-0 victory against the Wellington Phoenix in Round 6 of the A-league, thanks to a late goal from Rebekah Stott in the 86th minute. The match, played at Wellington’s home ground, saw a resilient Phoenix side fall just short despite a determined effort.
This result leaves the Wellington Phoenix still searching for their first win of the season and remaining across the Tasman, as they prepare for a quick turnaround to face Perth Glory on Friday night. For Melbourne City, the win consolidates their position in the league and builds momentum as they aim for a strong finish to the regular season.
The Phoenix nearly opened the scoring immediately after the second half began,with Malena Mieres tipping a shot from Manaia Elliott onto the crossbar. Despite creating several opportunities, Wellington were unable to find the back of the net. Elliott had a final chance in added time, opting to shoot for goal instead of passing to a teammate, but her attempt failed to trouble the City goalkeeper.
Rebekah Stott’s decisive goal came late in the game, breaking the deadlock and securing all three points for Melbourne City. The match wasn’t without its physical edge, with shelby McMahon of city and Manaia Elliott and Marisa Van der Meer of the Phoenix all receiving yellow cards in the 45th, 68th, and 90+4th minutes respectively.
Wellington Phoenix: Aimee danieli (gk), CJ Bott (c), Mackenzie Barry, Ellie Walker, Grace Jale, Sabitra Bhandari (Emma Main 58′), Manaia Elliott, Marisa Van der Meer, Lara Wall (Lucía León 72′), Brooke Nunn, Pia Vlok (Zoe Benson 83′). Unused substitutes: Brooke Neary (gk),Daisy Brazendale,Grace Bartlett.
melbourne City: Malena Mieres (gk), Danielle Turner, Taylor Otto, Leticia McKenna (Chinaza Uchendu 64′), Alexia Apostolakis, Holly McNamara, Shelby McMahon, Rebekah stott (c), Laura Hughes, Leah Davidson (Deven Jackson 83′), Aideen Keane (Danella Butrus 83′). Unused substitutes: Melissa Barbieri (gk), Ellie Wilson, Karly Roestbakken.
Goals: Rebekah stott (Melbourne City) – 86′
Cards: Shelby McMahon (Melbourne City) – yellow – 45′; Manaia Elliott (Wellington Phoenix) – yellow - 68′; Marisa Van der Meer (Wellington Phoenix) – yellow – 90+4.