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Melbourne City Storm Back to Overcome Canberra United
Melbourne City proved once again why they are among the A-League Women’s elite, overcoming a halftime deficit to defeat Canberra United 4-2 at AAMI Park on Sunday night. The victory marked the team’s third comeback win this season and featured a stellar performance from Kathryn Harvey and a memorable return for Holly McNamara.
Pre-Match Drama and Team Updates
Coach Michael Matricciani faced unexpected challenges before kickoff as illness swept through the squad, forcing last-minute adjustments. Leah Davidson returned from international duty, but Rhianna Pollicina was sidelined, with Kathryn Harvey stepping back into the starting XI. Shelby McMahon was also ruled out, with Emilia Murray and Lourdes Bosch added to the bench.
Starting XI:
24. Malena Mieres (GK), 8. Alexia Apostolakis, 13. Rebekah Stott (C), 5. Taylor Otto, 16. Karly Roestbakken, 14. Laura Hughes, 18. Leah Davidson, 6. Leticia McKenna, 22. Bryleeh Henry, 17. Mariana Speckmaier, 7. Kathryn Harvey.
First Half Frustrations
Despite controlling possession in the opening stages, City found themselves trailing in the 12th minute when Michelle Heyman capitalized on a quick counterattack to put Canberra ahead.
While City dominated the ball, chances were few and far between. Wingers Mariana Speckmaier and Bryleeh Henry worked tirelessly to create openings, but a cutting edge in the final third was missing, leaving City with a 1-0 deficit at halftime.
Second Half Surge
City wasted no time in the second half, leveling the score just two minutes after the restart. A chaotic sequence in the penalty area saw Leah Davidson and Speckmaier come close before Harvey delivered a looping header into the net, restoring parity.
Momentum swung firmly in City’s favor, and in the 57th minute, an Alexia Apostolakis corner led to an own goal by Canberra’s Maja Markovski, handing City a 2-1 lead.
The night reached an emotional high in the 72nd minute as Holly McNamara, sidelined for over a year due to injury, made her much-anticipated return. The crowd erupted as the young star stepped onto the pitch.
Goals Galore to Seal the Win
Laura Hughes extended City’s lead in the 77th minute with a stunning chipped finish. After intercepting a poor pass, Hughes quickly spotted goalkeeper Sally James off her line and executed a delicate lob, showcasing her class and composure.
Heyman struck again in stoppage time, narrowing the score to 3-2, but City’s dynamic attack ensured there was no late drama. A fluid team move involving McKenna, Bosch, and McNamara led to McKenna sealing the game with a close-range finish after McNamara’s initial shot hit the post.
What’s Next for City?
City face a quick turnaround as they head to Adelaide for a Friday night clash against the Reds. They will then return to Melbourne to close out the year with a home fixture against Wellington Phoenix on Saturday, December 28.
