Knights triumphant in the Croatian Derby

Starting XI: G. Matti, B. Carrigan, S. Brecevic, A. Hird, S. Whyte, C. Bramwell, S. Lawless, F. Dunlop, D. Anastovski, J. Morton, M. Chiba.

Substitutes: T. Karlovic, J. Franjic, K. Sheppard, A. Vuletic, M. Petheriotis, D. Nikolaidis.

At Tompsett Stadium, a historic Croatian Derby unfolded in thrilling fashion as Melbourne Knights triumphed 3-1 over St Albans Saints Dinamo, securing a much-needed three points to reignite their season.

The match began with immediate drama. Just six minutes in, a moment of brilliance from the Knights’ attack managed to edge them into the lead. Bramwell, chasing a ball sent from Dunlop, put pressure on Saints goalkeeper Riley, who rushed off his line and found himself caught out of position. Bramwell, quick to pounce, skipped around Riley and cut the ball back perfectly for Darcy Anastovski, who slotted it home with composure, giving the Knights a 1-0 advantage.

The Saints were not without their chances, though, and in the 20th minute, Lawless had an opportunity to extend the Knights’ lead. His shot was denied by Riley, who made a crucial save just in time. Despite the squads’ impressive performances in recent weeks, the pressure of Tompsett Stadium, a place where the Saints have struggled in recent years, seemed to weigh heavily on their shoulders as the Saints made uncharacteristic errors.

In the 35th minute, the determination of the Saints allowed them to find their equaliser. Mickel Platt, with space inside the box, cut back onto his left foot and unleashed a powerful shot that sailed just past the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Gab Matti, bringing the score level at 1-1.

Yet, it was Matti who would steal the show for the Knights. Known for his connections to the Croatian clubs, having played for Dinamo and the Knights in the past, Matti’s performance in goal was nothing short of spectacular. With each save, he reminded the crowd why he was such a revered figure. His crucial stops kept the game tied heading into halftime, as the Knights’ fans roared their appreciation for his efforts.

As the second half wore on, it was the Knights who would reclaim their lead in the 73rd minute. Marc Petheriotis, fresh off the bench after Kane Sheppard’s injury, made an immediate impact. He latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from deep and, with a burst of pace, sprinted past the Saints’ defenders. With a powerful strike, Petheriotis sent the ball sailing past Riley to give the Knights a 2-1 lead.

The Knights weren’t done yet. In the 83rd minute, captain Steve Whyte orchestrated a brilliant play, launching a ball over the Saints’ defensive line. The ball fell to Chiba, who, with a cool head, chipped it over the head of Riley and into the net, securing his first goal for the Knights and putting the game beyond the Saints.

As the final whistle blew, Tompsett Stadium erupted in celebration. This Croatian Derby victory was more than just a thrilling encounter—it was a turning point for the Melbourne Knights. With three vital points in the bag, the Knights have reignited their season and proved their resilience. The win not only celebrated their dominance in the Croatian Derby but also marked a key moment in their fight to climb the league standings.