Melbourne Victory have emerged as early favourites for the A-League title after securing a 4-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers in their season opener at the Etihad Stadium.
The home side started strongly and came close to making the breakthrough in the fourth minute.
Leigh Broxham took a shot from outside the box, but it was a relatively soft attempt as the ball was easily caught by goalkeeper Ante Covic.
Victory's attacking threat was rewarded in the seventh minute when debutant Matthieu Delpierre hit the ball on the volley into the back of the net after it was floated into the box from Gui Finkler.
Shortly after going a goal behind, Wanderers had a penalty shout denied after Labinot Haliti went down in the box.
Victory were given the opportunity to double their lead when a penalty was awarded following a handball from Antony Golec.
Summer signing Besart Berisha was able to get off the mark for his new club by hammering the ball into the bottom left corner.
The home side continued to run riot by finding their third goal when Broxham's shot from just inside the box found its way into the back of the net.
Despite controlling the game, Victory conceded before the half-time whistle with a goal that came out of nowhere for the Wanderers, with Mark Bridge poking the ball home to give his side hope.
After the break, the away side's comeback was dealt a blow when their defensive frailties allowed Archie Thompson to power a low shot through the keeper to extend Victory's lead.
Connor Pain tried to create a chance for Wanderers at the other end by storming into the final third and getting behind the defenders, but he ran out of space and the ball bobbled over the byline.
Victory continued to chase goals but four ended up being enough as they took the first points of the 2014-15 season.
Danielle Joynson
