What a stunning week it’s been for Kenjok “King Kenny” Athiu at Melbourne Victory.
SEE THE GOALS AND RELIVE THE ACTION IN THE MATCH CENTRE
Signed from NPL club Heidelberg earlier this season after his eye-catching display in the FFA Cup during the off-season, the tall striker has had to bide his time behind legendary striker Besart Berisha.
That hasn’t been easy.
Likewise moving from the semi-pro ranks to a big professional club like Victory has been a challenge.
It’s been a season of adjusting but on Sunday in the 2-1 win over Phoenix, “King Kenny” put in a regal cameo to change the game for Victory and really stamp his mark at the club.
It came just days after Athiu scored in the Asian Champions League, underlining why he’s a rising force at the club.
Athiu was a late sub for Berisha and immediately made an impact against Phoenix, winning a penalty before powering home a header for the winner.
The new Victory hero said his game-changing cameo against Wellington was worth the wait.
“It’s a great feeling. I waited a long time to start getting some game time,” a delighted Athiu told Fox Sports.
“I’ve been getting ready slowly and tonight showed the faith the coach has in me and how I’ve developed so I’m really grateful.”
MATCH STATS
MATCH FACTS
- Since the beginning of Season 2015/16, Victory have come from behind at half-time to win in the Hyundai A-League just twice; both against Wellington Phoenix.
- The Nix are yet to keep a clean sheet this calendar year and extended their winless run to six (D1 L5) in this game.
- Victory have not drawn a league match since round 13, their first game of the calendar year. Since then they have won seven and lost five.
- Alex Rufer is the first Wellington player to be sent off in the league this season, they are the last side in the division to receive a red in 2017/18.
- Only Bobô (29) has registered more combined goals and assists than Leroy George (22) in the Hyundai A-League this season.
