Melbourne City Retain Control Over Their Finals Destiny

Melbourne City has established a solid five-point lead over Wellington following a 2-0 victory against the Phoenix at AAMI Park.

Aziz Behich set the tone for City by scoring just before the half-hour mark, and Marcus Younis later extended their advantage with his fourth goal since joining the team in January.

Wellington displayed resilience in the opening minutes, surviving an early barrage and a controversial handball appeal within the first ten minutes. They then mounted a 15-minute offensive effort but were unable to penetrate City’s resolute defence.

Behich capitalised on the opportunity to put City ahead, with his left-footed shot from the edge of the box taking a deflection off the outstretched Isaac Hughes and past goalie Joshua Oluwayemi. This marked the Socceroo’s second goal of the season.

Despite their efforts to level the score, the Phoenix struggled to make any significant impact as City maintained their advantage well into half-time.

The second goal for City came after a lengthy phase of midfield stalemate, as Andreas Kuen cleverly slipped Younis through the Phoenix defence, allowing him to convert a swift counter-attack.

Matthew Leckie made his eagerly anticipated return for Melbourne City, with the 35-year-old featuring for 11 minutes in his first match since late October.

Next Saturday, Melbourne City is set to travel to Brisbane to face the Roar, while Wellington will return home to host Western Sydney after two matches in Melbourne.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Melbourne City goal: Behich 27′

Melbourne City goal: Younis 76′

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