Vine shines as Sydney FC beat Melbourne City in ALW

Sydney FC put in an impressive attacking display to defeat third-placed Melbourne City 3-0 in the Women’s A-League clash at the Allianz Stadium.

The win brought third-placed Sky Blues within a point of City, who have suffered just a second loss in their last eight games.

Well-scored goals from Sarah Hunter in the 27th minute, Cortnee Vine just after half-time and Madison Haley in the 71st minute secured a well-deserved win.

Hunter curled a right footed shot over goalkeeper Sally James and narrowly into the post.

Vine doubled the lead within two minutes of the resumption and rounded off a deadly counter-attack by calmly rolling the ball past Sally James after a Mackenzie Hawkesby pass from the box.

Haley’s fine slide finish off a fine Vine cross sealed a strong performance in Sydney.

Vine, Hawkesby and Haley’s venture caused many problems for City.

City’s best moments came early and late in the first half, with the home side looking more dangerous the rest of the time.

The visitors had the first good chance of the game, but Hannah Wilkinson’s close shot in the third minute was blocked by goalkeeper Tahlia Franco.

Sydney then enjoyed a good time as Princess Ibini missed a connection from close range and a Haley shot was blocked on the line by Kate Bowen. Replays suggest the defender may have blocked the ball with one hand.

Referee Rebecca Durcau disagreed with Sydney’s calls for handball and penalties and play continued with no VAR on duty.

Hunter got close with another long-range shot just before half-time but City had three good chances in added time late in the period.

Top scorer Rhianna Pollicina hit the woodwork twice, rattling a long-range shot off the bar and then off the far post from a corner.

A few seconds later, Wilkinson headed over from another set piece.

Wilkinson had a penalty call a few minutes from time but City struggled to create clear chances in the second half.