Melbourne Victory Storm Into Ninja A-League Grand Final 🏟️

🔥 Victory Cruise to Grand Final with 6-2 Aggregate Win

Melbourne Victory are back in the Ninja A-League Grand Final for the third time in five years after a dominant 3-1 win over Adelaide United on Saturday. With a 6-2 aggregate result, Jeff Hopkins’ side extended their unbeaten streak to 15 games, setting a new club record.

🏟️ Match Recap: Lowe Leads the Charge

• ⚽ Rachel Lowe was the star of the afternoon, netting a brace at the Home of the Matildas.

• Sara D’Appolonia added a clinical finish in the second half.

• Izzy Hodgson scored a late consolation goal for the Reds.

Victory went into the second leg with a 3-1 advantage and capitalized early when Lowe pounced on a rebound in the 11th minute.

🎯 Key Match Highlights

✅ Early Momentum

Adelaide needed a fast start, but Lowe’s quick goal gave Victory an early boost. After a spilled free-kick save, she tapped in to give the hosts a commanding 4-1 aggregate lead.

💥 Missed Chances for Adelaide

• Dylan Holmes missed a crucial one-on-one opportunity in the 31st minute.

• Fiona Worts nearly scored before Ellie Wilson made a critical block to protect Victory’s lead.

🚀 Sealing the Deal

In the second half:

• Sara D’Appolonia scored in the 61st minute, connecting with a cutback from Nickoletta Flannery.

• Substitute Holly Furphy assisted Lowe’s second goal in the 78th minute, making it 6-1 on aggregate.

⚽ Late Spark from Reds

Adelaide’s Izzy Hodgson scored in stoppage time, but it was too late to change the outcome. The whistle confirmed Melbourne Victory’s return to the Grand Final stage.

📈 What’s Next?

Melbourne Victory will now face the winner of Melbourne City vs Central Coast Mariners, who are tied 2-2 after the first leg. The decisive leg will be played on Sunday, May 11 at ctrl:cyber Pitch.

👏 Reds' Remarkable Season

Though eliminated, Adelaide United had a season to remember:

• Climbed from last place in 2023-24 to third place this year.

• Achieved a club-record 11-game unbeaten run.

• Gained respect for their comeback journey and resilience under coach Adrian Stenta.

📢 Grab Your Grand Final Tickets!

Fans can now secure seats for the Ninja A-League Grand Final showdown between Melbourne Victory and either Melbourne City or the Central Coast Mariners.