Wellington Phoenix claimed their second win of the season against the ten men of Melbourne Victory, at the Westpac Stadium, following a VAR-assisted red card to Rhys Williams.
The referee initially showed the Victory defender a yellow card for a foul on Kaludjerovic, who appeared to be through on goal. However, after reviewing the video replay, Williams was shown a red card, changing the dynamics of the game.
Despite taking the lead through Kosta Barbarouses’ brilliant solo effort, Melbourne Victory’s defence failed to withstand Wellington’s persistent attempts on goal.
Eventually, a Lawrence Thomas howler and a Mark Milligan own goal gave Wellington all three points.
Wellington Phoenix
Lewis Italiano – 5.5
Rule number one of being a goalkeeper: never be beaten at your near post. Italiano fell to his right-hand side before the ball had even left the boot of Kosta Barbarouses, which meant he was unable to stop the brilliant solo effort.
Dylan Fox – 7.5
Swamped Besart Berisha whenever the Victory striker was anywhere near the ball and it worked. Fox’s mission of keeping Berisha silent succeeded and the defender nearly snatched a goal of his own in the process.
Daniel Mullen – 6.5
A couple of long throw-ins from Mullen put Wellington on the front foot very early in the first half. The 28-year-old was often found in space on the right flank, where he delivered a number of inviting crosses for his teammates.
Andrew Durante – 6
A solid performance from Wellington’s leader, who also played a part in keeping Berisha absent.
Marco Rossi – N/A
Forced off early with injury. Did not see enough of the ball to receive a fair rating.
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