Avondale FC starting XI: Bennett (GK), Walsh, Claridge, Nishihara, Genitsaris (C), Lamaj, Kellond-Knight, Schriven, Lines, Steiner, Okino
Goals: Steiner 11’ 45’
From the first whistle, it was clear this would be a battle in every sense of the word, with both teams fighting relentlessly for every ball.
After an early test for Avondale’s goalkeeper Brooke Bennett, who looked sharp and ready for the challenge, the Azzurre broke the deadlock in the 11th minute.
Elise Kellond-Knight picked out in-form striker Addison Steiner, who beat her marker, cut back onto her favoured right foot and calmly finished past the Banyule goalkeeper.
Steiner struck again just before halftime. A high pressing effort forced a turnover, with the ball falling to Larissa Walsh. Walsh played into space, allowing Steiner to use her pace to get in behind.
Spotting the goalkeeper off her line, Steiner produced a brilliant looping finish to double Avondale’s lead.
Although the Azzurre went into the second half expecting to further extend their lead, they were met by a very resilient side that was not going to go down without a fight.
At times Avondale even found themselves on the back foot defending a number of attacks from the Bulls. Eventually, in the 70th minute, the Avengers defence was breached for only the eighth time this season as a cross from the right flank found an unmarked forward who was able to nod the ball towards the back post, beating a diving Bennett.
With defending our slim lead in mind, coach Donnelly made some defensive substitutes to lock up the game and make sure Avondale came home with the three points.
Banyule fought hard in the second half and managed to pull a goal back, but the Azzurre showed resilience to secure all three points and avoid a potential slip-up on the road.
The next Azzurre match kicks off at Shipston Reserve on June 22 at 2 p.m. against Bayside Argonauts, who will be out for revenge after the previous result at Avenger Park.
