Melbourne Victory made a Semi-Final exit in the Westfield W-League, but only after another fine campaign.
Victory suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Sydney FC at Epping Stadium on Saturday to bow out in a Semi-Final.
But Jeff Hopkins’ team produced a strong regular season to finish second, a campaign after winning its maiden Premier’s Plate.
We take a look at some of the key players, milestones and highlights from season 2019/20.
Key players
Casey Dumont – the goalkeeper was in fine form throughout the campaign, highlighted by her incredible penalty-saving ability. Dumont stopped three spot-kicks and kept four clean sheets during an impressive season.
❌✋@CaseyDumont kept us level #MelbDerby 0-0 #WLeague @FOXFOOTBALL pic.twitter.com/birspSKrgF
— Victory W-League (@victorywleague) December 12, 2019
Jenna McCormick – the Westfield Matildas defender’s first season at Victory was a fine one. McCormick marshalled a strong Victory defence, particularly after it switched to a back three during the campaign.
Natasha Dowie – Victory’s captain and all-time leading goalscorer delivered yet another good season. Dowie became the first Victory player to win the Westfield W-League Golden Boot, sharing the honour after netting seven times.
Angela Beard – Beard’s versatility was hugely important for Victory. The 22-year-old played at left-back, at centre-back and as a wing-back, producing some impressive performances particularly late in the season.
Darian Jenkins – Jenkins came to life late in the season for Victory. The American starred when moved to wing-back, scoring braces against the Newcastle Jets and Sydney FC as her ability to beat players proved crucial for Victory.
Milestones
100 – Dumont and Amy Jackson made their 100th Westfield W-League appearances.
50 – Dowie moved past 50 Westfield W-League games, all of which have come for Victory, while Jackson reached the same milestone for the club.
50 – Melina Ayres also brought up 50 Westfield W-League appearances.
4 – Dumont, Emily Menges, Beard and Dowie were the only Victory players to play every minute this season.
13 – Jackson moved onto 13 Westfield W-League goals for Victory, which is the third most.
Highlights
Dowie scored a stunning volley in a win away to Brisbane Roar in November.
Jackson netted a brace against Perth Glory in December, including a spectacular long-range strike.
Dowie wrapped up a win away to Adelaide United by finishing off a fine team move.
Jenkins’ double highlighted a final-round win over Sydney FC.
