Avondale starting XI: Bennett (GK), Walsh, Claridge, Nishihara, Genitsaris (C), Lamaj, Kellond-Knight, Kenny, Lines, Steiner, Okino

From the opening whistle, both sides showed they were up for the contest. Avondale’s high pressing and intensity pinned United deep, though the visitors remained composed and disciplined, ready to counterattack at any opportunity.

After 25 minutes of sustained pressure and well-worked possession, midfielder Simone Kenny picked up the ball and played a clever chip over the United backline. Saphri Lines controlled it brilliantly before cutting it back into the path of Addison Steiner, who arrived at pace to finish confidently at the near post.

In response, Bundoora tightened up defensively, but momentum was with the Azzurri. As the half wore on, a trio of dangerous corners from Elise Kellond-Knight had the visitors scrambling. On the third delivery, young defender Liliana Lamaj rose highest, powering home a bullet header to double the lead right before the break.

United came out firing after halftime, clearly motivated to respond. But Avondale goalkeeper Brooke Bennett stood tall in goal, handling everything thrown her way with calm assurance.

The Avengers gradually regained control of the second half and created several chances to extend the lead, including a penalty that was well saved by Bundoora’s keeper, Kibbell, who dived low to her left.

The final whistle blew on a deserved 2–0 win, with the team showing maturity, discipline and flashes of top-class football against quality opposition.

Next up, Avondale travels to face Eltham Redbacks under the lights at Eltham North Reserve on Saturday, May 17.