There were four CommBank Matildas in action in the A-League Women as Chloe Logarzo made her first start for Western United, Tameka Yallop played a half, and Elise Kellond-Knight made her return to action after eight months.
Catch up on all of the round two action in the A-League Women.
The Central Coast Mariners won their first game since returning to the competition, defeating Adelaide United 2-1 on Friday afternoon. Goals to Taren King and Chinese international Wurigumula were enough to secure the victory, despite Ella Tonkin pulling a goal back in the second half. Kyah Simon was not named in the Mariners’ matchday squad as she continues her recovery from injury.
In the first of Saturday’s fixtures, Melbourne City defeated Canberra United 2-1 thanks to a Rhianna Pollicina brace. City dominated the game but a mix-up at the back - resulting in Michelle Heyman’s 96th league goal – left the door ajar for a Canberra comeback. Much to the delight of their home fans, however, City were able to hold on.
Meanwhile, Tameka Yallop’s Brisbane Roar made it two wins from two as they upset the defending premiers and champions Sydney FC 1-0. Despite dominating the stats, Cortnee Vine’s Sydney FC were unable to create any significant clear-cut chances to challenge the Roar’s goal, and a first-half Chelsea Blissett stunner was enough. Both Yallop and Vine started the match for their respective teams, with Yallop being withdrawn at half-time.
Chloe Logarzo’s Western United continued their dominance over cross-town rivals Melbourne Victory on Sunday as a late winner to Keiwa Hieda gave them a 2-1 victory. Logarzo started the game and played for over 70 minutes, her first start in the green of Western United, and her first in the competition since 2020.
There was some injury concern for Lydia Williams, who started the game for Victory but came off with an injury in stoppage time. In positive news, however, Elise Kellond-Knight made a welcome return off the bench for Jeff Hopkins' side, playing the last 20 or so minutes of the match and having some impressive touches. Emily Gielnik was not deemed fit enough for the matchday squad.
78’ Substitution
↪️ Kellond-Knight, O'Grady
↩️ Zois, Okino#WUNvMVC | United 1-1 Victory— Melbourne Victory (@gomvfc) October 22, 2023
Perth Glory continued their defensively solid start to the season, defeating Newcastle Jets 1-0 at HBF Park. A second-half strike from Susan Phonsongkham proved the difference, the youngster claiming her second goal in as many games this season.
Finally, Wellington Phoenix stunned Western Sydney Wanderers as they defeated the home side 3-0. A host of young Kiwis impressed, including goalscorers Macey Fraser and Manaia Elliott. For the Wanderers, Young Matilda Talia Younis became the youngest-ever player in the competition as the 14-year-old made her debut in the second half.
You can catch all of the A-League Women's action live and free on 10Play, or on Paramount+.
