Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat felt his side made a statement with their resilience in the sensational come-from-behind 3-2 win over Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium.
Trailing 2-0 and on the back of a 4-1 defeat to Newcastle Jets, Victory were facing the prospect of a second heavy defeat in as many weeks at half-time on Sunday.
But the visitors mounted a galvanising fightback to prevail for the second time in the space of three successive away trips.
“I thought it was an unbelievable mental challenge tonight and I couldn’t fault the group for their efforts,” Muscat told Sky Sport NZ.
“[At half-time] the playing group had a decision to make – whether we maintain our belief and go on and try to get something out of the game.
“And I thought they answered that question unbelievably well.
“If we had won 5-2 or 6-2 I don’t think there would have been many complaints. We had some really good chances.
“Overall I thought it was an outstanding away performance.”
Victory will look to carry their newfound momentum into Friday night’s blockbuster home clash with rivals and fellow top six contenders Adelaide United.
Last season’s beaten Grand Finalists currently sit ahead of seventh-placed Perth Glory on goal difference and can put two points between them and the Reds with a win at Etihad Stadium.
