They have been one of the powerhouses of the Westfield W-League for the last four years but defender Steph Catley feels this Melbourne City squad is “more complete” than recent seasons.
City won their first Melbourne Derby since 2017 on Thursday night as they beat a stubborn Victory 1-0 at ABD Stadium thanks to Yukari Kinga’s last minute goal.
The result not only maintains their unbeaten start to the 2019/20 Season but shoots City to the top of the ladder – where they will remain after Round 5 with Western Sydney Wanderers having the bye this weekend.
It’s been an ominous start to the campaign by Rado Vidosic’s squad and Catley says confidence is high given the abundance of talent they have.
“[This squad] feels a little bit more complete. We’ve got a little more depth,” Catley told Fox Sports.
WRAP: Kinga's late winner gives City Melbourne Derby bragging rights over Victory
“Obviously you saw Kyah [Simon] come off the bench tonight and having someone like that come off the bench, or if it’s Mili [Mijatovic] or Claire [Emslie] or whoever it is, you are getting quality throughout the entire team so it feels good.
“It was a tough game, against Victory it’s always like that. It’s end-to-end…but I’m really happy we got the win.”
While City dominated for large periods, it appeared like they would be left frustrated as Victory held firm for 89 minutes.
Emily van Egmond saw her first-half penalty saved by Victory shot-stopper Casey Dumont, Kyah Simon squandered a couple of excellent opportunities, while Aivi Luik’s header hit the post.
VOTE: Westfield W-League Coach of the Month – November
VOTE: Westfield W-League Player of the Month – November
But they produced a bit of quality near the end, with Catley’s incisive cross swept home by Japanese star Kinga.
“Kinga makes the best runs, she’s so smart and she times them perfectly,” Catley said of the World Cup-winning midfielder.
“I always felt she was going to get on the end of one tonight.”
There was an injury scare for Catley inside the first minute when she stayed down clutching her knee.
While she admitted it felt “a little bit weird” she was able to finish the match which is an encouraging sign.
City are in action again next Thursday night when they host Perth Glory on December 19. The match ABD Stadium kicks off at 7.30pm AEDT. Get your tickets here
Find out more at the Match Centre here
Victory entertain Brisbane Roar in Round 6 at Epping Stadium. That match on Friday, 20 December kicks off at 5pm AEDT. Get your tickets here
Find out more at the Match Centre here
FRIDAY PREVIEW: Perth Glory vs Canberra United
SATURDAY PREVIEW: Brisbane Roar vs Adelaide United
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