Has a Coaching ‘Masterstroke’ Revealed Victory’s Secret Weapon for Finals? ‘The Game-Changer’

Nikki Flannery emerged as the Melbourne Victory hero during the Original Rivalry in Round 21, stepping into a new position on the right wing that could turn the agile winger into a crucial asset for head coach Jeff Hopkins in the upcoming finals.

In her debut season with Victory, Flannery has been employed in various roles; however, her new position on the right flank of a three-pronged attack against Adelaide United allowed the 26-year-old to wreak havoc, netting a superb brace in their 2-1 victory.

Before Round 21, Flannery had only scored twice this season, but she managed to double her tally, with her second goal in the thrilling Original Rivalry clash coming during second-half stoppage time, which not only secured three points but virtually guaranteed Victory a second-place finish with two rounds remaining before the finals.

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Although Flannery predominantly played down the right wing for most of the match, her knack for shifting positions created challenges for the Adelaide defence.

Her opener stemmed from an unexpected move to the left wing, while the clincher – a powerful header – resulted from a quick positional swap with striker Emily Gielnik, with the Matildas forward delivering a cross that met Flannery’s central run into the box for the decisive goal.

On this week’s edition of Dub Zone, A-Leagues commentator Teo Pellizzeri alongside two-time Ninja A-League Champion Teresa Polias spotlighted Flannery as a possible game-changer for Victory as the finals approach.

“(It was) a masterstroke from Jeff Hopkins,” Pellizzeri commented, referring to Flannery’s role on the right wing.

“She’s had an outstanding season, and I believe she finally received the recognition she deserves.

“While Flannery has showcased great moments throughout the season, she has occasionally struggled on the left side. We’ve seen Gielnik in the middle and on the right, with Holly Furphy also entering the fray to shake things up.

“I felt Victory wasn’t at their best during this match; they took time to get going but maintained a sharp edge in the dying moments, showcasing a strong winning mentality to clinch the victory.”

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“You mention her inconsistency,” replied Polias, “But it’s understandable in those positions, as inconsistencies are common… (but) she is a highly experienced player with a wealth of finals experience.

“I genuinely believe she could be the player to step up for Victory during the finals.”

Flannery and Victory are set to play the sole match over this weekend’s international break: a rescheduled encounter against the Western Sydney Wanderers at Wanderers Football Park this Sunday evening.

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Champions’ Unexpected Path to Finals Charted, with 17-year-old as the ‘Gamechanger’ in Push for Top Six

Sydney FC are making a late bid for the finals, but don’t count out the defending champions just yet.

The Sky Blues have secured victories in four of their last five matches leading up to the final two rounds of the season. This impressive turnaround comes off the back of just two wins in the first 16 games of their championship title defence.

Currently, the Sky Blues find themselves five points shy of sixth-placed Canberra United, the last side within the top six yet to solidify their finals spot.

Pellizzeri outlined the finals scenarios on Dub Zone and the outcomes that Sydney FC desperately needs to unfold to climb into the top six.

“They’ll be regretting that Perth lost to Canberra, as Canberra is now in a commanding position and in control of their fate,” Pellizzeri remarked.

“If Canberra draws once more, their goal difference is at -6. Sydney FC would need to win all their remaining matches and surpass Canberra’s goal difference to secure their place.”

“Sydney plays Perth at home and travels to Adelaide, while Canberra hosts Wellington and then faces the Wanderers away.

“Another twist could come from Brisbane. If they win one more game, they’d also reach 28 points, benefiting from a much better goal difference and potentially knocking Sydney out.”

“While it’s unlikely at this stage, just getting to the final two rounds of the season reinforces the significance of being a storied club with a trophy-laden history, creating pressure for other teams striving to reach the finish line.”

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One standout player in Sydney’s resurgence has been the 17-year-old Indiana Dos Santos. Named the Shark Player of the Month and a Boost Mobile Young Footballer of the Year nominee in February, Dos Santos netted the sealing goal during Sydney’s 2-0 derby win over Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 21, extending the Sky Blues’ winning streak to three matches.

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Former Sydney midfielder Polias commended Dos Santos as a rising star with an impressive maturity, excelling in a pivotal role for her team’s attacking front.

“When you meet her, she comes across as such a relaxed young talent. She genuinely enjoys it,” Polias commented.

“I don’t believe she overthinks it; she just goes out there and plays football.

“Recently, she’s primarily played in a more central role, and I think that’s been a game-changer for Sydney.”

“It comes naturally to her,” Pellizzeri added. “Even in a team experiencing struggles, her performance continues to improve. She consistently gets better, regardless of the obstacles the team faces.”