Welcome to Made With Mitre Moments, where aleagues.com.au delivers all the key highlights from each round of the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season.
Continue reading for the most significant discussion points from Round 18, brought to you by Mitre.
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Australia’s most surprising title race flying under the radar as an epic conclusion approaches
In the landscape of Australian sport this year, Adelaide United’s unexpected pursuit of the Ninja A-League Premiership stands out as one of the most remarkable narratives.
After 18 rounds, a thrilling three-way battle for the top position has emerged, with unbeaten Melbourne City (40 points) narrowly ahead of Melbourne Victory (38 points) and the Reds (36 points), who have gone without a loss since 20 December last year.
In the history of 16 seasons, Adelaide has never finished better than third. Last year, they finished at the bottom, securing only four victories while their leading scorer managed just three goals.
Their transformation has been astonishing and rapid.
Under the guidance of Adrian Stenta, who has been with the club since the 2020-21 season and is responsible for their highest-ever finish, they have now set club records for the longest unbeaten streak, the most wins in a season, and are on the verge of setting the record for most goals scored.
The returns of Matilda McNamara and Fiona Worts have made a significant impact; goalkeeper Claudia Jenkins has been outstanding; and the signings of imports Lucia Leon and Erin Healy have proven to be shrewd moves. Overall, everything seems to be working in harmony for the Reds.
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Currently sitting third, they have critical clashes coming up against both City (16 March) and Victory (29 March), presenting an opportunity for a remarkable achievement if results go their way.
Stay tuned for updates.
A remarkable comeback story 341 days in the making: ‘She’s an inspiration’
In the 68th minute, Susan Phonsongkham made her highly anticipated return from injury—an emotional moment 341 days in the making. The midfielder marked her first appearance of the season by calmly converting a penalty, with teammates rallying around her in celebration.
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Kelli Brown’s two goals ensured the points for Stephen Peters’ side, but it was Phonsongkham’s penalty and the subsequent jubilant scenes that highlighted their resilience as they remain firmly in contention for a top-six finish. The atmosphere is vibrant over in the west.
“(Susan) is truly an inspiration. She has put in so much hard work,” Brown commented on her returning teammate.
“Things didn’t go as planned for her at the start of the season; she thought she’d only be back for the last two games. But here she is, with five or six matches remaining.
“It’s a testament to her dedication. She’s such an integral part of this team.
“Even when she wasn’t on the field, she played a pivotal role off the pitch.
“It’s clear that everyone appreciates her, everyone supports her. She’s a vital glue for this team, and we’re all incredibly proud of her.”
The Glory are currently in ninth place with five matches left, just six points adrift of the finals spots.
11-minute comeback sets up thrilling Finals twist
The Wellington Phoenix look poised for a late push for finals football after orchestrating a stunning comeback to defeat Western Sydney Wanderers on Sunday afternoon.
Trailing 1-0 in the 74th minute, spectacular goals from Mebae Tanaka and Olivia Fergusson turned the match in their favour, sealing three vital points that bring them closer to the top six.
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Although currently in eighth, the Phoenix are just one point behind sixth-placed Central Coast Mariners, two points shy of fifth-placed Brisbane Roar, and three points off fourth-placed Western United.
Moreover, their upcoming fixture list appears quite favourable.
Next, they face last-placed Sydney FC, followed by matches against the Mariners, league leaders Melbourne City, rivals Canberra—who sit level on points—and Western.
If they can capitalise on these opportunities, there’s a strong chance that Paul Temple’s side could secure a place in the finals for the first time in the club’s history.
“It’s all about maintaining that momentum,” captain Annalie Longo stated.
“We’re committed to making the finals, and we understand that every match is crucial. It’s another do-or-die match, so we’ll approach it with confidence.”
Sydney FC face 5 matches to evade unwanted historic outcome
From champions to wooden spooners? It’s a genuine possibility for Sydney FC this season, sitting at the bottom of the Ninja A-League table with five games left.
No matter the outcome, this season is set to mark a significant chapter for the Sky Blues.
In 17 seasons, they’ve never missed out on the finals series, let alone finished last. To keep that streak alive, they’ll need to perform exceptionally well from this point onward.
“It’s incredibly tough. We’re all feeling the pressure,” said Mackenzie Hawkesby in an interview with Network 10.
“We have a strong squad and an excellent coach, so each week we treat it as a fresh opportunity and continue pushing until the end.
“We’re Sydney FC. We have high expectations of ourselves.
“We maintain our spirits and aim to conclude the season with some dignity.”
Sydney FC has managed just three wins this season, and it’s hard to see that tally growing considerably given their current form, winning only once in their past seven matches.
Their path ahead includes tough matchups against Wellington (8th), Canberra (7th), Western Sydney (11th), Perth (9th), and Adelaide (3rd).
Victory boasts a genuine super-sub in Holly Furphy
When Victory acquired 22-year-old striker Holly Furphy late in January, few anticipated the immediate impact she would have.
Fast forward to today, and Furphy has netted three goals in six appearances, primarily off the bench, emerging as the type of super sub who could be instrumental in this season’s outcome.
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“Honestly, I’m at a loss for words,” she remarked to Network 10 after scoring in Victory’s 2-0 triumph over Canberra, narrowing the gap at the top of the table to just two points.
“Joining such a fantastic team, I’m just grateful for every minute I can contribute to helping the team win matches and strive for the title.”
“I am incredibly thankful to be part of this team.
“(Jeff Hopkins) advised me to be as direct as possible, continue playing my game, and aim to make a significant impact. I believe I accomplished that.”
Furphy’s contributions off the bench, combined with the scoring prowess of Golden Boot leader Emily Gielnik—who became the first player to reach double figures over the weekend—present a potent combination that could propel Victory towards silverware.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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