Melbourne City FC maintained its perfect start to the Foxtel National Youth League season with a commanding 3-0 derby win over Melbourne Victory at Lakeside Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Starting XI
What happened?
A cool first-half finish from Gerrie Sylaidos put City in the driving seat at the break, before Denis Genreau and Nicolas Colazo struck twice in the space of three minutes to seal an emphatic Derby win.
Joe Palatsides’ side displayed their attacking intent right from the get go and were rewarded for their endeavour after just 12 minutes as Sylaidos coolly buried the ball into the bottom corner to open the scoring.
City were in complete control after breaking the deadlock and were denied a second by a superb double save from Victory ‘keeper Alistair Bray, who first thwarted Yusuf Ahmed before springing up to smother the rebound from Nicolas Colazo.
Bray’s heroics came at a cost for the hosts, with a shoulder injury forcing him to be replaced by Stephen Hatzikourtis after just 20 minutes.
The chances continued to flow in the second half and City doubled its advantage in the 58th minute with a well worked set play.
A well-weighted free kick from Colazo found defender Ruon Tongyik in acres of space at the back post, who cushioned a header for Generau to tap home into an empty net.
Colazo finished off a sweeping move past Hatzikourtis only three minutes later to effectively kill the contest, as Palatsides’ side cruised home to secure an impressive Derby win.
Man of the Match
It was only fitting that Sylaidos received a round of applause after being substituted in the 73rd minute.
The midfielder was outstanding on the right hand side, troubling the Victory defence with his speed and directness throughout his time on the pitch.
Sylaidos’ opening goal set the tone for his side throughout the match, and was the highlight of an impressive performance.
Colazo Returns
The match also saw A-League marquee man Nicolas Colazo make a welcome return to action. The Argentine, who is recovering from a burst ear drum, was lively throughout his cameo, sealing the contest with a well taken third goal before being replaced by Austin Wong in the 63rd minute.
What’s next?
City will aim to make it three wins from three in the Foxtel National Youth League when Joe Palatsides’ side takes on Perth Glory at CB Smith Reserve on Saturday 26 November, kick-off at 10:30am.
Match Details
Foxtel National Youth League – Round 2
Melbourne Victory 0
Melbourne City FC 3 (Gerrie SYLAIDOS 12’, Denis GENREAU 58’, Nicolas COLAZO 61’)
Venue: Lakeside Stadium
