Who can put a stop to Melbourne City? Currently, it seems no one can, as the reigning champions have maintained their unbeaten Ninja A-League season, clinching a 2-0 victory against Newcastle Jets away from home.
Laura Hughes and Holly McNamara were the driving forces behind City’s success, marking their impressive 16th league match without a loss in the 2024-25 season.
After a scoreless first half, Hughes found the net in the 69th minute, followed by McNamara, the in-form CommBank Matildas star, who sealed the victory with just five minutes left on the clock at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday night.
With this win, City now sits a full seven points clear at the top of the table, while the Jets find themselves in 10th place, a daunting 11 points adrift of the top six.
Newcastle Jets were vying for a slice of history in their clash against the unbeaten leaders, having never previously triumphed over the reigning premiers.
The first half provided plenty of entertainment in the Hunter region, with City’s standout player McNamara starting on the bench following her noteworthy hat-trick against Western United earlier in the week, a performance that followed her call-up to the Matildas.
Captain Rebekah Stott came close to putting City ahead in the 11th minute, her long-range shot striking the crossbar.
The Jets created a few chances themselves, yet City continued to apply pressure as they pushed for a goal.
After Mariana Speckmaier attempted a strike from range, Stott made a crucial goal-line clearance at the other end, denying Newcastle’s Sophie Hoban.
The breakthrough finally arrived 20 minutes from time, with Hughes scoring from the edge of the area.
Claire Adams nearly equalised just three minutes later, but City goalkeeper Malena Mieres remained resolute, thwarting the Jets substitute from close distance.
McNamara then capped off the scoring in the final moments, outpacing fellow Australian international Tash Prior.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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