NEWCOMERS Western United are living in an A-League Women dream land after extending their winning run to six games from as many matches with a 1-0 win over Wellington.<\/p>\n
Tyla-Jay Vlajnic’s header in the 78th minute brought undone an otherwise resolute Phoenix defence.<\/p>\n
United sit second behind Sydney FC, who have played one more game, while Wellington, who failed to record a shot on target, remain anchored to the bottom of the table.<\/p>\n
“The girls just fight for each other,” said United coach Mark Torcaso. “They work hard together for each other.<\/p>\n
“They want to win, they’re winners, I haven’t felt what they’re like when they lose yet but I’m sure they’re sore losers like myself.<\/p>\n
“They want to win, they always want to impress and prove to people that they’re good enough.”<\/p>\n
Wellington goalkeeper Brianna Edwards, who has deputised well for the injured Lily Alfeld, excelled.<\/p>\n
United were without Matildas midfielder Chloe Logarzo, who was managed ahead of facing former club Sydney, and missed her drive and energy in hot conditions at City Vista Recreation Reserve.<\/p>\n
Torcaso said he was surprised and disappointed there were no drinks breaks.<\/p>\n
The first half was one of Wellington’s best this season but United should have taken the lead in the 37th minute.<\/p>\n
Emma Robers slipped through Hannah Keane and the American was denied by Edwards, Marisa van der Meer and Mackenzie Barry in quick succession.<\/p>\n
Vlajnic entered the game just after halftime while Edwards made a big save to deny Robers just three minutes into the second half.<\/p>\n
United kept pushing and broke through via a set piece with 12 minutes left in regular time.<\/p>\n
Melissa Taranto put in a tantalising high ball from a free kick and Vlajnic rose highest to direct a header past Edwards.<\/p>\n
It was only her second ALW goal despite a long career at Melbourne City before joining United.<\/p>\n
From there Western held on to claim their second clean sheet of the season.<\/p>\n