Auckland took another step closer to the Premier’s Plate thanks to two second half goals from Louis Verstraete and Guillermo May.
A thrilling encounter in Melbourne means Auckland just need a point in their final home game of the season against Perth Glory at Go Media Stadium next Sunday.
After a quiet first half, the second exploded into life in the 53rd minute.
Good work by Callan Elliot down the right saw his cross cutely cushioned by de Vries who laid it up for Verstraete.
The onrushing Belgian then slotted it into the corner of the goal, giving Auckland a lead their dominance deserved.
On 89 minutes Versraete turned provider and wrapped up the points. He pressured the Victory defence into a mistake, won the ball and drove into the penalty area.
After beating two, he laid the ball off to May who was able to roll it into the net and score his eighth goal of the season.
It wasn’t all one-way traffic. Victory played their part with a number of good chances but were always thwarted by Alex Paulsen in the Auckland goal.
The ‘keeper pulled off some expectational saves in a man of the match performance.
Auckland are now 13 games undefeated. Their last loss coming against next week’s opponents.
Head coach Steve Corica went for an attacking 3-4-3. Elliot and de Vries pushing up as wing backs into a midfield with Verstraete and Gallegos, but able to drop back when needed to create an impenetrable back line.
Brimmer was also promoted to the starting line-up, playing just behind the forward line of Rogerson and May. The former victory player almost broke the deadlock early on in the first half when his edge of the area strike hit the post.
The win and Melbourne City’s draw means Auckland just need a draw of their own next week at home to secure the Premier’s Plate in their debut season.
Player of the Match: Alex Paulsen
Next home game at Go Media: Sunday, April 27. Our final home game of the regular season. We’re expecting a sell out so get your tickets for that game here.
