Wellington Phoenix left it late but secured a crucial 1–0 win over Melbourne Victory on A-League matchday 23, with substitute Sander Kartum striking in the 89th minute on Sunday.
The match in the regular season phase remained goalless deep into the second half before Phoenix made their pressure count. Introduced in the 73rd minute for Ramy Najjarine, Kartum proved the difference, finishing off a move created by Ifeanyi Eze. The 89th-minute goal, officially assisted by Eze, gave the visitors a narrow but decisive advantage that Victory could not overturn.
Melbourne Victory were forced into an early change when Sebastian Esposito went off in the 22nd minute, replaced by Jason Davidson. The hosts later made a triple substitution on 68 minutes, bringing on Reno Piscopo, Louis D’Arrigo and Matthew Grimaldi in search of greater attacking spark, but they ultimately failed to find a breakthrough.
Victory’s frustration showed in the book, with Denis Genreau and Nishan Velupillay both cautioned in the 34th and 54th minutes respectively. Wellington’s Alex Rufer received a yellow card in the 76th minute as tensions rose late on.
Phoenix coach staff also turned to the bench throughout the second half, with Lukas Kelly-Heald, Kartum, Fin Conchie, Luke Brooke-Smith, Carlo Armiento and, in stoppage time, Manjrekar James all introduced as Wellington sought both control and fresh legs ahead of the decisive closing stages.
The late winner keeps Wellington Phoenix’s campaign on track in the A-League, while Melbourne Victory will rue missed chances and a match that slipped away at the death.
More detailed statistics such as shots, possession, and full lineups were not available at the time of writing. For the full match overview, visit the match centre here, or see the team pages for Melbourne Victory FC and Wellington Phoenix FC.
Comments