A superb late goal from Harry Novillo has seen Melbourne City claim a memorable 3-2 win over Western Sydney at AAMI Park on Saturday night.
In a clash between two sides in the higher echelons of the league table, City made a dream start to the match in the eighth minute when Novillo lashed home a sensational free-kick from the edge of the penalty area.
Top scorer Bruno Fornaroli doubled City’s advantage in the 24th minute, dazzling the Wanderers defence with a series of twists and turns before curling an effort into the top corner to finish off a swift counter-attacking move.
The Wanderers got themselves back in the match just five minutes later when Thomas Sorensen misjudged a long-range strike from Mitch Nichols that squirmed through the keeper, who had an otherwise outstanding match.
The scores were level on the hour mark when City again gifted Western Sydney a goal, this time central defender Aaron Hughes deflecting a Dario Vidosic cross into his own net.
Brimming with confidence after clawing back a two goal deficit, the Wanderers were relentless in attack but were met by a defiant Sorensen in the City goal.
The goalkeeper continued his impressive form, using his experience to keep his side in the contest with a number or crucial second half saves.
The visitors looked like they’d completed a remarkable comeback when a quickly taken free-kick ended up in the back of the net.
However referee Jarred Gillett called the play back as he’d not allowed defender Patrick Kisnorbo enough time to get back in position after conferring with the City skipper.
Instead it was Novillo who was the hero, completing his double with a sensational strike from outside the box to snap the Wanderers ten game unbeaten streak and move City within three points off the top of the table.
