The clash
Head Coach Rado Vidosic and his side will be eager to secure their second consecutive win when they head to Shepparton to host Adelaide United in Round 3 of the Westfield W-League 2019/20 season.
Undefeated in their opening two fixtures, City secured their first win of the season last Sunday, as a dramatic finish saw Emily van Egmond net a 90+4’ minute penalty to seal a memorable come-from-behind victory.
After a flurry of squandered chances in the opening half, City were made to pay for their missed opportunities when Katie Stengel opened the scoring from close range in the second half. Despite falling behind against the run of play, City rallied well and eventually found an equaliser when Milica Mijatovic combined brilliantly with Yukari Kinga to net her first goal for the Club.
Just when the game looked headed to finish all square, captain Steph Catley and star fullback Ellie Carpenter combined expertly to put Canberra’s defence under pressure which ultimately led to Kinga earning a penalty after an intelligent turn in the penalty area. Up stepped van Egmond, who made no mistake from the spot despite Khamis getting a hand to the ball, to secure her second goal in her second game for the Club.
City return to Victoria, where they will host their first game of the season when they take on Adelaide United at John McEwan Reserve. Despite Adelaide not yet securing a point this season, City are set for a difficult fixture against a team who has been unlucky in front of goal.
After suffering a 2-1 defeat to Western Sydney Wanderers following Kyra Cooney-Cross’ 90+2’ minute winner in Round 1, the Reds fell to their second straight loss, after an agonising 1-0 loss to Sydney FC at Marden Sports Complex in Round 2.
With City desperate to continue their unbeaten run and Adelaide equally as determined to secure their first competitive points of the season, we’re set for an enthralling battle in Shepparton.
Team news
Claire Emslie returns! See our full Team News here.
Last time they met
The last time the two teams met there was late drama as Adelaide United snatched a share of the spoils at the death in Round 5 last season.
Kyah Simon converted a 54th minute penalty to hand City the lead at C.B. Smith Reserve, before Georgia Campagnale netted a sublime equaliser in the seventh minute of additional time.
What was said
Melbourne City FC Head Coach Rado Vidosic
“Last season, first two games we had zero points so we are four points better than last year and that’s a massive positive for us.”
Melbourne City FC midfielder Emily van Egmond
“Obviously Adelaide are a strong challenge. They will be super competitive watching the first two games. We’re ready for whatever they throw at us and ready to showcase what our team is about.”
Melbourne City FC defender Emma Checker
“It’s a big game and it certainly feels slightly different to any other game would, but I’m preparing for it like I would any other game and trying to limit those additional emotions that come with playing my former club.”
Where to watch
Can’t make it to the game? Catch it live on Kayo Sports and the MyFootball Live App.
Where and when
City host Adelaide United at John McEwan Reserve on Saturday 30 November, kick off 7:00pm. The clash follows City’s Y-League match with Brisbane Roar, kick off 3:00pm.
