South Melbourne beat St Albans 2:0 in NPL Victoria
South Melbourne defeated St Albans 2:0 in the NPL Victoria Regular Season on Sunday. The match concluded after 90 minutes with the home side taking all 3 points. It was a steady performance that reflected their position in the table.
The first goal arrived in the 32nd minute, breaking a stalemate that had characterised the opening quarter. I remember minute 20 clearly, and nothing of note had occurred then. To be fair, the tempo increased only when the away defence slipped. The second goal followed 8 minutes later, in the 40th minute, leaving St Albans chasing the game.
The result moves South Melbourne further clear in fifth place, holding 41 points from 26 matches. St Albans remain ninth with 34 points, a 7-point gap separating the two sides. By then, the hosts had established a clear separation over the visitors.
This victory extended a winning streak for the home team, who had taken 4 points from their previous 2 outings against Adelaide United and Oakleigh Cannons. They were not always dominant, but they found a way through when the pressure mounted. And here's the thing, the coaching staff seemed to have adjusted the shape at the break.
St Albans had drawn their last 3 games before this defeat, failing to secure a win since their victory over Hume City. They had shared points with Avondale and Sunshine George Cross in recent fixtures. The away side looked disjointed without their usual rhythm.
The loss leaves the visitors with a difficult run of matches ahead. South Melbourne, meanwhile, kept their top-four hopes alive with a solid display. They showed discipline in defence throughout the contest.