Melbourne Knights FC Official Website The Melbourne Knights have unfortunately suffered their first defeat of the season, falling to Avondale FC at home 3-0.
Starting XI:
Thomas Manos (GK), Fuki Ishibashi, Thiery Iradukunda, Ayden Brice (C), Luka Celic, Gian Albano, Andy Robertson, Anthony Frangie, Mohammad Sumaoro, Trevor Ssemakula, Jack Morton
Substitutes:
Adam Bacic (GK), Jack Marth, Atilla Ofli, James McGarry, Luka Kolic, Steve Sokol
An unchanged line up from the week prior returned home full of confidence, following their 5-0 win in round one.
A physical first half saw Avondale take the lead in the 22nd minute, thanks to Manylauk Aguek. However, the adrenalin of lead got the better of the Avengers, when Avondale goalkeeper Bon Scott was sent off, moments before half time.
Despite entering the half 1-0 down, the Knights had a body advantage on the pitch, giving them an huge opportunity going into the second half.
With 20 minutes to go, a sway of momentum went the way of Avondale, allowing them to score two quick-fire goals. In the 72nd and 75th minute the Avengers extended their lead to three, scored by Stefan Valentini and Liam Boland respectively.
Moments after Avondale’s third goal, the night was further dampened when Trevor Ssemakula was sent off, returning parity to the field for the remaining 10 minutes.
The match ended on a mute note for home fans as the full time whistle ended the match at 3-0 to the visitors.
Next week, the Knights travel to Lakeside Stadium to take on fierce rivals, Hellas in the return of the OG Melbourne Derby, in hopes of returning to the winners column.
– Tom Hayes