Three points was the biggest positive to come out of Western United’s clash with Melbourne Victory, according to Head Coach Mark Rudan.
United defeated the Victory 2-1 at Bankwest Stadium in Sydney, taking them to seventh on the A-League table, just one point behind sixth-placed Adelaide.
“Ultimately it was about the result for us,” Rudan told reporters post-match.
“I thought we played some really good football at times.
“We held our shape and they didn’t really threaten us. Our keeper didn’t really have to make a save at 2-1.
“I thought the most important thing was the three points.”
Defender Tomi Uskok opened the scoring with a strikers-type finish, before Max Burgess doubled United’s lead in the second half.
Storm Roux pulled one back late for the Victory with a stunning header, but United held on for all three points.
The Green and Black made it three wins from three against Melbourne Victory this season, adding to their triumphs in rounds 4 and 9.
“Three games against Melbourne Victory this year and we’ve beaten them all three times. I think that’s a real statement,” Rudan said.
“We spoke about beating them three times this year and I still think they’re the biggest club in the country.
“I think it’s a fantastic effort from our football club.”
Rudan praised midfielder Max Burgess post-match, whose spectacular volley doubled United’s lead during the second half.
Burgess now has five goals in his last three appearances for United.
“I think there are two components with Max. One is self-belief and the other is decision making,” Rudan said.
“We know he’s got the skill sets. He’s a quality footballer.
“Now he understands his positioning dependent on where the ball is, the timing of his runs, his cues, when to come in, when to come out, when to drive with the ball.
“I think his decision making has improved; he’s now getting the goals that we knew that he could always score.
“Max has been a big part of our team.”
Western United next face Newcastle Jets on Sunday, August 2 at McDonald Jones Stadium.
