Sydney FC beat Melbourne City after Redmayne saves penalty

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:25 am

Sydney FC goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne again came to the rescue after denying Riley McGree from the penalty spot in their 2-0 A-League win over Melbourne City.

The Sky Blues appeared on their way to a draw on Sunday when Bart Schenkeveld convinced the referee that he'd been brought down in the box in the 78th minute.

But for the third time this season, Redmayne's antics on the goal-line paid off as he produced a save with his legs, to the delight of the 13,029 Jubilee Stadium crowd. Redmayne also denied a Rostyn Griffiths' driving shot in the 59th minute.

Adam Le Fondre sealed the win in the 86th minute, ending a four-game goal drought by going through the legs of Eugene Galekovic. His 12th goal means he retains his spot as the league's leading scorer. More importantly, the win ensures Sydney FC remain in third spot, one point behind Melbourne Victory and five from league leaders Perth.

It was a measured performance on Sunday evening from the hosts, who had their backs to the wall for most of the second half after Luke Ivanovic's early opener.

City looked bereft of a finisher. They will welcome next week's arrival of Socceroos representative Jamie Maclaren.

Warren Joyce's side stay in fifth spot, one point ahead of Wellington.

Adam Le Fondre ended his four-game scoring drought for Sydney FC.
Getty

The humid conditions meant both teams settled on a slower pace, which appeared to suit a Sky Blues side ready to pounce on their moments. And after impressing last week, Ivanovic who took his first chance, showing good touch off a Milos Ninkovic pass and side-footing under Galekovic. A minute later, the Sky Blues' youngster copped a high boot to the face from Harrison Delbridge, which resulted in a yellow card.

Ivanovic's afternoon ended when he limped off with a possible glute issue. His goal allowed the home side to put the squeeze on their opponents, with Lachlan Wales' audacious shot with the outside of his boot their best chance.

With the wind behind their backs in the second half, City enjoyed a host of possession but struggled to convert their dominance into opportunities.

In contrast, the Sky Blues had a handful of looks at goal, most notably when rusty midweek signing Mitch Austin had an open net, but could only find woodwork.