Melbourne City has put a tumultuous week behind them to record a crucial 3-0 win over the Newcastle Jets at AAMI Park on Sunday night.
There was plenty of pressure on coach Warren Joyce and his troops with Bruno Fornaroli again left out and coming off a disappointing loss in Brisbane last weekend.
But fantastic strikes from Riley McGree and Luke Brattan – the latter another goal of the season contender – in the first half and another to Lachlan Wales saw the hosts carve out a comfortable win.
WATCH FOR FREE: How to watch the Hyundai A-League LIVE and FREE
WRAP: Krishna sets record in Phoenix’s draw with Glory
ANALYSIS: Victory lay down impressive marker as Honda sparkles again
Fornaroli watched from the stands and would have been out of his seat inside two minutes as McGree gave City the perfect start.
The Jets failed to clear a corner with the ball dropping to the youngster in the box, with McGree – who played for Newcastle last season – smashing the ball past Glen Moss.
As the half wore on Newcastle got more into the game and appeared to be getting on top before they were hit with a dagger blow in first-half stoppage-time.
https://players.brightcove.net/5519514571001/default_default/index.html?videoId=5974294911001
Brattan controlled a looping ball on his chest before hitting a thunderous volley from 25 yards out which dipped over Moss into the top corner of the net.
While the Jets did their best to try and find an avenue back into the contest, City were rarely troubled and put the result beyond doubt 15 minutes from time.
Ritchie De Laet picked out the run of Wales with a superb ball over the top, allowing the youngster to race clear before producing a cool finish past Moss.
It was Wales first Hyundai A-League goal and capped a great night for the home side as they consolidated their spot in the top six.
