Canberra United’s nine game unbeaten run came to an end as the side fell to defeat against Melbourne City. Two goals from Rhianna Pollicina was enough as Michelle Heyman took one step closer to her 100th goal.
Canberra’s first real chance of the match came as Serbian International Vesna Milivojevic hit a perfectly weighted through ball to Nickoletta Flanner, with the speedy winger crossing to Michelle Heyman. The legendary striker narrowly missed to the left as United looked to get on top in the opening stages.
That early chance proved to be somewhat of a wakeup call for the hosts, as they enjoyed plenty of possession. Despite some resolute defensive efforts, Canberra would fall behind as midfielder Rhianna Pollicina put the hosts in front in the 26th minute.
City kept up their pressure for the remained of the half, but some quality saves from Chloe Lincoln kept the hosts at bay. Cannon Clough was also instrumental in keeping Canberra in the game, with the American defender often on hand to block the shots from City’s attack.
The start to the second half was far from what Canberra would have wanted as City doubled their lead with an early penalty from Pollicina.
Despite having been under the pump, Canberra pulled one back as Michelle Heyman pulled one back with her 96th goal in the competition. A looping ball from out wide by Milivojevic caused confusion amongst the City defence, with Heyman on hand to capitalise and reduce the deficit.
The goal brought Canberra to life, the side beginning to take control of the game and put City under pressure.
A rushed clearance from the City defence fell straight to Milivojevic, but the midfielder pulled her attempted volley just wide.
It was not be for Canberra however, as the side’s nine game unbeaten run came to an end. A 96th A-League Womens goal from Michelle Heyman was not enough to overturn two goals from Melbourne City.
