Avondale FC starting XI: Bennett (GK), Claridge, Genitsaris (C), Lamaj, Walsh, Scriven, Galluccio, Candia, Nishihara, Steiner, Okino
Goals: Galluccio 5’ 22’, Okino 7’ 60’, Steiner 43’
Despite their enthusiasm and grit, the gap in experience and cohesion was clear from the outset.
The hosts set up with a clear intent to frustrate, sitting deep and defending in numbers. But it didn’t take long for our Azzurre to break through. Midfielder Danielle Galluccio rose above the pack to nod home a perfectly placed corner from Addison Steiner, giving us an early lead. Minutes later, some slick combination play between our front two saw Steiner lay it off to Kurea Okino, who calmly finished from close range to double the advantage.
Momentum stayed with the visitors, and by the 20th minute, Galluccio had her second, this time heading in a pinpoint delivery from Saki Nishihara to make it 3-0.
Just before the break, an inspired Larissa Walsh, who tormented the Calder defence all night, intercepted a pass near halfway and surged into space. She found Okino, who repaid the earlier assist by setting up Steiner for a composed finish past the Calder keeper.
After the break, the Avengers continued to create chances with flowing, attacking football. However, a determined Calder backline and the heroics of their substitute goalkeeper, who stepped in after the starting shot-stopper was forced off with an injury, meant Avondale would add only one goal to their tally the second half.
That final goal came from a corner delivered by Elise Kellond-Knight, met by Japanese star Okino for her second of the evening and the perfect way to kick off her 26th birthday celebrations.
It was another commanding performance from the Avengers and the perfect lead-in to a crucial fixture next weekend.
Join us at Avenger Park on Sunday, July 20, as we take on Monash University in a match that could see us seal promotion to the NPLW for 2026.
