Melbourne Victory have claimed bragging rights in the first A-League game at the new Allianz Stadium, coming from behind to secure a thrilling 3-2 win.
A healthy crowd of 21,840 was on hand for the first Big Blue at Moore Park in several years, although the predicted number during the week was far higher before torrential rain kept some from coming.
It took just 14 minutes for the first goal, Slovakian import Robert Mak putting the Sky Blues ahead in his first A-League appearance.
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Nicholas D’Agostino headed home on the half-hour mark to level the scores, as the conditions – which had earlier seen a game in Gosford called off due to a waterlogged pitch – continued to wreak havoc, with players constantly slipping over.
The slapstick reached its nadir early in the second half when referee Chris Beath collided with Socceroos defender Rhyan Grant, taking the wind out of the veteran official.
Thankfully, Beath was able to continue.
Two superb passes, first from Stefan Nigro and then from their marquee man Nani, put the ball on a plate for the midfielder.
But a needless free kick given away in the left-hand corner allowed former Victory man James Donachie to head home, but parity was only restored for four minutes.
It was another who has played on both sides of this superb rivalry, Josh Brillante, who put Victory back ahead after 82 minutes – where they would stay, despite the home side’s best efforts in the dying stages.
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