A two-goal opening 20 minutes for Casey-based Melbourne City gave it its biggest win of the season in the Melbourne Derby at AAMI Park.
Melbourne Victory’s Nani gave away a penalty to Jamie Maclaren at the top left corner of the penalty box.
In converting from the spot, Maclaren took an early outright lead in the golden boot with three goals after his brace last week.
Within two minutes, City had its second on the board, a Valon Barisha cross deflecting off the post, into Victory’s Spanish import Cadete’s leg and into the back of the net.
A stronger second half for Victory gave them some opportunities, and they finished with just two fewer shots and three fewer shots on target.
But ill-discipline from Joshua Brilliante in the 35th minute had him seeing red and made life more difficult for Victory, which ultimately always looked like conceding three points thereafter.
Next up for City is the winless Wellington Phoenix at home on Sunday evening.
