Dylan Holmes helped make history on a sweltering Thursday evening in the City of Churches and Adelaide United’s skipper believes toppling the defending Champions, Melbourne City, could be the boost the Reds need.
The 23-year-old made it a unique occasion on a personal level, scoring in the 31st and 53rd minutes of the 2-1 win to notch her first Westfield W-League goals in her 35th competition game.
On the day Adelaide hosted City for the first time ever, the South Australians beat City for the first time in six attempts, as their search for a maiden top-four finish, and trip to the Finals Series, continues.
“To beat Melbourne City that way, I couldn’t be happier, I really am,” Holmes said.
“This NPL season, that was a goal of mine, to try and score a few more and I wanted to bring that into the W-League so I’m so excited that I’ve finally got my first goal.
“We came into this game with a lot of confidence from the two Perth games.
“But to beat the reigning champions, that’s going to do us wonders this year.”
REPORT: Holmes finds scoring boots as Reds beat City for third straight win
WATCH: How to watch Westfield W-League Round 5
After leading his side to a third straight win for the first time since January 2017, Reds coach Adrian Stenta admits a trip to the promised land of finals football is a realistic ambition.
“We’re at a crucial point of our season where every time we can get a win, we can cement ourself further in the top four,” Stenta said.
“We knew it was going to be a big challenge, but every game is a big challenge in this league and I think our girls were up to it.”
The first-year head coach revealed he was unhappy with the hosts' performance in the opening 45 minutes but he believes his players responded well and upped their game after the interval.
“The first half I thought we were a little bit stand-offish, and a bit reactive,” he added.
“I delivered that message at half-time and I think the girls really came through in the second half and I’m really proud of them.”
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Next Fixtures – Round 6
Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory
Friday, 29 January 2021
Venue: Marden Sports Complex
Kick-off: 7.05pm AEDT
Match Centre
Melbourne City v Brisbane Roar
Sunday, 31 January 2021
Venue: AAMI Park
Kick-off: 4.05pm AEDT
Match Centre
ROUND 5 PREVIEW: Brisbane Roar v Melbourne Victory
UPDATES: Westfield W-League 2020/21 Season Draw: Rounds 6 - 9
