Phoenix Snatch Late Drama in Melbourne as Victory Denied Crucial Win
Tension gripped Melbourne as Wellington Phoenix left it late to stun the home crowd and deny Melbourne Victory what looked like a crucial win in the women’s A-League.
At the Home of the Matildas, Melbourne Victory thought they had done enough. A second-half penalty gave them the edge, the momentum and control. But football can turn in a heartbeat and it did.
Wellington Phoenix came into this match needing a response after a recent setback. They were under pressure, chasing the league leaders and playing away from home in difficult conditions. And for long stretches, they struggled to convert their chances. They created opportunities, they pushed forward, but they lacked that final finish.
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Then came the turning point. With just minutes remaining, American forward Makala Woods stepped up again. She has quickly become one of the most influential players in this squad. Controlling a sharp pass inside the box, she calmly fired home to level the score in the 87th minute. It was her fourth goal since joining in January and yet another vital contribution in what has been a remarkable run of form.
Earlier, Victory had taken the lead from the spot through Rhianna Pollicina , who converted confidently after a penalty was awarded just after halftime. Until that late equaliser, it looked like three valuable points were staying in Melbourne.
For Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman , this result carries weight. It keeps her side in second place on the table, still within reach of the top and importantly, with a game in hand over the leaders. In a tight title race, a single point away from home can shape the season.
This draw also highlights something bigger. The Phoenix are no longer just participants in this league. They are contenders. They showed resilience, belief and composure under pressure. And as the competition heads into an international break, momentum matters.
For Melbourne Victory, the frustration will linger. They controlled large parts of the game but could not close it out. In a league this competitive, missed chances and late concessions can define campaigns.
The women’s A-League title race is tightening and every point now feels critical. The question is not just who can win matches, but who can hold their nerve when it matters most.
Stay with us for continuing coverage of the women’s A-League season as the battle at the top intensifies and every result reshapes the race.
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