The battle of Melbourne: Victory advance as Izzo breaks City hearts

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Melbourne Victory rode four penalty saves from keeper Paul Izzo and some timely substitutes from coach Tony Popovic to win a thrilling A-League Men’s elimination final over Melbourne City on Sunday night.

Despite losing star import Zinedine Machach to a red card late in the first half, the Victory kept their poise and then used the run of their second half substitutes to set up an equaliser in the 87th minute from Nishan Velupillay to force extra time.With the sides still locked together at 1-1 after 120 minutes, Izzo saved three City penalties from five attempts, and then converted one of his own to put his club into a semi-final against Wellington Phoenix in Wellington next Saturday.

But if that moment was a warning, it was ignored as City took the lead on 29 minutes as defender Samuel Souprayen headed over Izzo after a corner that was flicked into his path by Natel. But City failed to find their second goal and it cost them dearly as Victory coach Tony Popovic once again showcased his big-game experience, throwing substitutes Velupillay and Kasey Bos – who brought speed and dare – to the chase for a goal.

Izzo denied Natel late in extra-time and with just minutes left in the second half of extra-time City defender Curtis Good took a professional foul to bring down Velupillay after he bared down on goal.

 

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