It took just 12 minutes for a goal to come, and it was Victory who took the lead. A somewhat disjointed and makeshift City defence continued to struggle with the Navy Blue’s ever-growing number of attacks, missing defender Bart Schenkeveld through suspension. Some trademark derby flavour was sprinkled on top when tempers reached a boiling point just minutes from half-time.

A simple case of ‘what should we do?’ swamped both sides, with a lack of composure possibly to blame. Victory’s win awarded them the keys to Melbourne, but also closed the gap to City on the table, making the difference just one point. It was an enthralling encounter in all aspects, goals, tackles, drama and one of the best atmospheres in Australian sport.

Melbourne City

Dean Bouzanis - 5

Conceded two goals but didn’t have much else to do. Seemed rushed with some of his distribution, unlike his usual calm and composed self.

Manny Muscat – 5

Part of a makeshift defence that was up and down. Struggled to deal with Leroy George at times.

Michael Jakobsen – 6.5

Held what he could together at the back, a mostly solid game with some fast ball movement into midfield.

Scott Jamieson – 6

Rattled the crossbar with a free-kick and got himself involved in some potentially dangerous City attacks.

Nat Atkinson - 5

Back from a miraculous recovery, the youngster struggled with some of the pace from Victory’s wide men. Was a target point in which the Victory was aiming to hit.