Canberra United Kickstarts 2024/25 Ninja A-League Women’s

Canberra United made a statement in their season opener, defeating Brisbane Roar 3-2 at home to start the 2024/25 Ninja A-League Women’s campaign on a high. With Maja Markovski’s brace and a remarkable volley by Mary Stanic-Floody, Canberra overcame Brisbane’s pressing attack to secure all three points.

Solid Defense and Clinical Attack Propel Canberra’s Early Lead

Brisbane Roar dominated possession in the opening moments but struggled to penetrate Canberra’s resolute backline, expertly commanded by Sally James. It was Canberra, however, that found the breakthrough 15 minutes in. A clever through-ball from Emma Robers set up veteran Michelle Heyman, whose initial shot was parried by the Brisbane keeper. The rebound landed perfectly for Markovski, who made no mistake, powering the ball into the net to open Canberra’s scoring.

The Canberra defense, featuring an effective yet fresh centre-back pairing of Alex McKenzie and Hayley Taylor-Young, held strong as Brisbane sought an equalizer. Canberra’s backline, firm and tactical, kept Brisbane at bay and allowed the attack to capitalize.

Stanic-Floody’s Stunning Volley and Markovski’s Brace Define the Match

As the game progressed, Canberra doubled their lead with a spectacular strike from Mary Stanic-Floody. Latching onto a poor clearance, Stanic-Floody unleashed a first-time volley that soared past the Brisbane goalkeeper and into the back of the net, sending the Canberra fans into rapturous applause.

Brisbane came out strong in the second half, and Evdokia Popadinova found the net within the first five minutes, reducing Canberra’s lead. Moments later, Aideen Keane nearly brought Brisbane level, expertly shaking her marker only to send her shot just over the crossbar.

Canberra, undeterred, extended their lead once more. In a chaotic scramble in Brisbane’s box, Markovski seized the opportunity, poking the ball home to secure her second goal of the afternoon and restore Canberra’s two-goal advantage.

Late Push from Brisbane Falls Short as Canberra Holds On

Despite the mounting pressure from Brisbane, Canberra’s defense continued to withstand the challenge. A spectacular block from Michelle Heyman denied Leia Varley, frustrating the Roar’s efforts to get back in the game.

In the closing minutes, Brisbane’s Deborah De La Harpe curled in a free-kick to bring the score to 3-2, but it wasn’t enough. Canberra United’s disciplined defense and sharp finishing ensured they held on to claim their first victory of the season.

Canberra United now heads across the Tasman to face Wellington Phoenix at Porirua Park on November 10, looking to build on their promising start in the Ninja A-League Women’s competition.

Tags: #CanberraUnited #NinjaALeague #WomensSoccer #Markovski #StanicFloody #pitchside.hq