City bounce back for big victory over the Phoenix

BACK to full strength, Melbourne City have consolidated their spot in the A-League’s top four with a classy 5-1 win over the Phoenix in Wellington yesterday.

Missing six players to suspension in last week’s 2-2 draw with Brisbane, City stormed back against a hapless Phoenix, slicing through the home team with two first-half goals before adding three in a dominant second spell.

Winless in their past seven away games, City weren’t initially convincing and Wellington looked set to take advantage in the 15th minute.

Former Nix defender Manny Muscat was judged to have brought down Kosta Barbarouses as he closed in on goal, although replays suggested the light touch was outside the area.

It didn’t matter, Barbarouses blasted the spot kick into the crossbar and Melbourne cleared.

City hit back almost immediately on the counter, Nick Fitzgerald latching on to a sweeping Anthony Canceres ball down the right and making a strong run.

His pull-back clattered off Phoenix right back Ryan Lowry, and Melbourne took the lead after 20 minutes.

City’s pressure told as the half-hour mark approached, City earning a free kick when Wellington keeper Glen Moss handled outside his area.

Luke Brattan’s attempt bypassed Muscat but fell sweetly for Bruno Fornaroli, who calmly doubled City’s lead with his 13th goal of the season. Ahead 2-0 at the break, City added a third in the 60th minute when Caceres slotted home to finish a scything Josh Rose run down the left.

Barbarouses pulled back for Wellington minutes later. one 10