We’re at AAMI Park for the first time this season in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Ninja A-League Women’s schedule.
It’s Melbourne Derby time and ahead of Saturday afternoon’s fixture, we take a look at what we’re looking forward to.
IT’S DERBY TIME
There’s nothing quite like The Melbourne Derby.
These are the fixtures that bring out the best in football and the games that create lasting memories. From Rebekah Stott’s late winner to Hannah Wilkinson’s five-star performance, we’ve enjoyed some memorable derby moments at AAMI Park.
After a strong start to the season from both teams, we’re set for a mouth-watering affair at AAMI Park this Saturday.
City return home when the team hosts Central Coast Mariners following an action-packed City Fan Festival, presented by Federation University, at the City Football Academy Melbourne – ctrl:cyber Campus at Casey Fields on Saturday 16 November. Find out more and don’t miss it!
BUILDING BLOCKS
City’s huge 5-2 come-from-behind win over Perth Glory in Round 1 saw a number of exciting new faces take to the pitch for the first time on home soil.
Mexican American winger Lourdes Bosch had an electric second-half on the wing, as Canadian attacker Kathryn Harvey had a debut to remember off the bench.
Having an instant impact, Harvey netted two goals to spur the second-half turnaround and will be eager to have a similar influence on this week’s Melbourne Derby – whether that be in the starting XI or as an impact sub remains to be seen.
It wasn’t only the new signings who impressed in Round 1, Rhianna Pollicina was back to her best with two goals and one assist in a Player-of-the-Match performance.
The ever-consistent Laura Hughes and Leah Davidson continued to boss defensive midfield alongside Leticia McKenna who sparked the comeback when Pollicina finished the rebound from her long range effort. When you think of the key Melbourne Derby match-ups, the battle of midfield is front of mind and will be key to success on Saturday.
City’s Round 1 win highlighted the potential of this new-look City side, with the blend of youth and experience promising plenty of excitement for this Saturday’s Melbourne Derby and the remainder of the season under Michael Matricciani.
A MUST FOR MOMENTUM
Looking to defend their 2023/24 Premiers Plate, City face a difficult run of games to open the season.
With games against Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners and Sydney FC, City take on three of last season’s top five in November.
For both teams, getting off to a strong start is vital, and The Melbourne Derby offers the perfect stage to set the tone for both the remainder of the month and season.
It won’t be easy, but three points against Melbourne Victory will ensure some early season momentum and confidence to begin a difficult stretch of games.
FIXTURE DETAILS
Ninja A-League: Round 2
Melbourne Victory v Melbourne City FC
AAMI Park, Melbourne
Saturday 9 November, 2:15pm KO
City return home when the team hosts Central Coast Mariners following an action-packed City Fan Festival, presented by Federation University, at the City Football Academy Melbourne – ctrl:cyber Campus at Casey Fields on Saturday 16 November. Find out more and don’t miss it!
