After consistent performances throughout the season lead the Victory to the premiership, they were unable to defeat Perth Glory in their semi-final missing out on a chance to take home the double.

The Victory hit the ground running at the beginning of last season in a series of close games against former W-league champions Sydney FC, Brisbane Roar and cross-town rivals Melbourne City.

Despite this strong start, the Victory began to waver at the pointy end of the season. They went into their finals campaign coming off a 2-1 loss to the Glory, only to go down to Perth again in their semi-final.

This season, the Victory will look to build on their success and win back to back premierships and try to take out another championship.

The Strength

The Victory’s squad this season has a host of international stars and homegrown talent. Coming off the back of a successful season, the depth of this squad provides a balance of experience, talent and youth perfect for defending a premiership title.

Eager to prove themselves, the Victory will come out firing as they face Sydney FC in their first game of the season.

Though it will be a tough match, Melbourne’s versatile squad gives them enough power across the park to hold their own against last season’s champions. Win or lose, this first game will give the Victory the fight they need for another successful season.

The Challenge

Along with Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory will be the team to beat this season. They aren’t unbeatable with many of their wins last season being closely contested. Much like their season, the Victory would take the lead early in the game but let it slip in the second half.

The challenge this season will be managing their game play in order to preserve their lead. Whether it be in a more switched on defence or an unrelenting attack, the Victory won’t be allowed to rest on their laurels as the standard of competition increases.

Key Players

Natasha Dowie

Melbourne Victory’s captain leads by example and is a driving force in many of the teams’ goal scoring opportunities. Holding the club record for most goals scored in a season, Dowie is a smart player with a clean finish.

Always giving 100% for the full 90 minutes, Dowie is a crucial member of the team and makes her presence known across the park.

Laura Alleway

A towering figure in the Victory’s backline, Alleway’s ability to get to the ball first keeps attackers at bay. Her height also gives her an advantage when it comes to defending and attacking corners and set pieces.

Casey Dumont

Casey Dumont’s lightning reflexes saved the Victory many times last season and she’s poised to have another stellar season this summer.

Keeping four clean sheets last season, Dumont can save them from the spot or charge down a rouge attacker and will play an important role in the Victory’s success.

One to watch

Jenna McCormick

Making her return to football after winning two premierships in the AFLW, Jenna McCormick is fighting for a spot in the Matilda’s Olympic squad. McCormick has proven her W-league prowess winning the premiership with both Brisbane Roar and Canberra United.

After sharpening her skills with the Matildas in camp as they prepare to face Chile, McCormick will be looking at each W-league game as a chance to prove herself to Australian selectors.