Bayside Argonauts Women 2-3 Banyule City (W) – Late Winner Seals Thriller in Victorian Women’s Premier League

Date: July 5, 2026 | Venue: Bayside Sports Complex | Competition: Australia Victorian Women’s Premier League

In a pulsating five-goal classic at Bayside Sports Complex, Banyule City (W) emerged 3-2 winners over Bayside Argonauts Women in a match that swung one way, then the other, before being decided by a dramatic 85th-minute strike. The result bolsters Banyule’s top-four credentials while leaving the Argonauts to rue defensive lapses.

The match burst into life early. Banyule City took the lead in the 8th minute when midfielder Jessica Pittsburg volleyed home from a corner. But Bayside Argonauts hit back within five minutes as striker Emma Teasdale latched onto a long ball and slotted calmly past the keeper. The score remained 1-1 until half-time, with both sides creating half-chances.

The second half was even more frantic. Banyule regained the lead in the 52nd minute through a well-placed header from centre-back Sophie O’Brien. However, Bayside responded again in the 70th minute – a sweeping move ended with winger Lily Copeland cutting inside and unleashing a powerful shot into the top corner, making it 2-2.

Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Banyule City found a winner. In the 85th minute, substitute Ava McKenzie collected the ball on the edge of the box, drove past two defenders, and fired a low effort that nestled into the bottom corner. Bayside pushed for a late equaliser, but Banyule’s defence held firm to secure three vital points.

Goal Scorers

• Banyule City: Jessica Pittsburg (8’), Sophie O’Brien (52’), Ava McKenzie (85’)
• Bayside Argonauts: Emma Teasdale (13’), Lily Copeland (70’)

Standout Performance

Ava McKenzie (Banyule City) – The super-sub came off the bench to score the winner, turning the game on its head with a moment of individual brilliance.

League Context

The win lifts Banyule City (W) to 4th place in the Victorian Women’s Premier League with 22 points, strengthening their position in the finals race. Bayside Argonauts Women slip to 8th with 13 points, now four points clear of the relegation zone but needing to tighten up defensively.