By Lachlan Mitchell
Melbourne City played crosstown rivals Western United on Saturday night with City going into the match undermanned losing four key players to international duty including key striker Jamie McLaren.
City started the game on the back foot after a quick start by United.
Gloveman Thomas Glover was called into action early to make a couple of crucial saves.
City went into the break all square and looked certain to go behind after a careless handball gifted Western United a penalty.
Keeper Glover was called into action again to make a terrific diving save to his left to deny Western United their first.
The City defence held strong until Steven Lustica fired a shot to give United a 1-0 lead.
City’s defence crumbled late and it looked like United would really hammer home the advantage until some late brilliance by Glover kept the final score line at 1-0.
Melbourne City coach Patrick Kisnorbo, although disappointed with the loss, was pleased with the effort shown by the squad.
“You talk about performance but you’ve got six Socceroos missing then let’s talk about it,” he said.
“For me, and I said it to the players, it’s the best performance I’ve seen by a group. You know, you take six players out of any team and you see what they deal with.” Kisnorbo said.
City currently sit in fourth position as they continue to defend their a-league title.
Melbourne City’s next match is against Perth Glory away on Sunday 6 February.
