Avondale starting XI: Bennett (GK), Claridge, Nishihara, Genitsaris, Lamaj, Noguiera, Kellond-Knight, Kenny, Lines, Steiner, Okino
Goals: Steiner 5’ 49’ 85’, Okino 75’
After beating Banyule City 3-0 in the opening round last week, the Avengers worked tirelessly from the opening whistle to break down a well-structured and resilient Bayside defense.
The breakthrough came just five minutes in when American striker Addison Steiner was played in behind. Dribbling into the box, she struck a well-placed shot into the bottom left corner to give Avondale an early lead.
Bayside responded by tightening up defensively, making it difficult for the Avengers to find a second before the break.
Avondale came out firing in the second half and doubled their lead just four minutes after the restart. Dynamic midfielder Saphri Lines picked up the ball between the lines, turned and slipped in Steiner, who this time found the bottom right corner.
In the 60th minute, a pinpoint cross from young gun Azhia Claridge found Steiner, who was brought down inside the box. The referee immediately pointed to the spot.
Looking to complete her hat-trick, Steiner stepped up, but the Bayside goalkeeper made a fine save to deny her.
The Avengers extended their lead in the 75th minute when Vice-Captain Monique Nogueira lofted a perfectly weighted pass into the path of goal-scoring machine Kurea Okino. The Japanese striker showed great composure, slotting the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper.
The final goal of the afternoon came in fitting fashion, with Steiner completing her hat-trick in style. Latching onto another Nogueira through ball, she used her electrifying pace to race clear and calmly finish past the Bayside keeper.
A fantastic performance from our ladies and a perfect way to kick off the 2025 season!
A huge thank you to our loyal supporters who came down to Parkville. We hope to see you back next week as the Avengers roll into Round 3, sitting top of the table and ready to host Southern United at Avenger Park on Sunday, March 30, at 3 p.m.
