
Howe confident PIF remain committed to Newcastle after 'challenging conversations'
Eddie Howe believes PIF remains committed to Newcastle despite challenges.
Melbourne Victory defeated Canberra United to advance to the A-League semi-finals, where they will face their derby rivals. Brisbane Roar also progressed by beating Adelaide United.
A-League Finals Series: Melbourne Victory set up derby semi-final as Brisbane Roar progress
Following a hiatus for an international break, A-League Women action returned with Week One of the Finals Series.
Four teams entered the A-League Elimination Finals in two winner-takes-all matches for a spot in the semi-finals.
Melbourne Victory saw off Canberra United to face their derby rivals in the semi-finals, while Brisbane Roar progressed past Adelaide United. Hereâs how the results unfolded.
Melbourne Victory set up a derby clash against rivals Melbourne City as they overcame Canberra in the capital.
A record crowd of 3,290 at McKellar Park saw Victory take the lead when Rachel Lowe reacted quickest to score after Sally James had denied Rhianna Pollicina.
Three minutes later, Ella OâGrady doubled the Victory lead when she slid home at the back post to convert Pollicinaâs cross.
Canberra got themselves back into the game through Sasha Grove. A break from a Victory corner saw Grove win the ball in the centre of the pitch. With a little help from Emma Hawkins, the ball ran through for Grove who raced in on goal to slide the ball past Courtney Newbon with a little under 30 minutes gone.
The hosts shouldâve equalised five minutes later, but with the goal at her mercy, Hawkins could only head Michelle Heymanâs cross over the bar.
Five minutes after the restart, OâGrady made the game safe for Victory. A giveaway in the Canberra half gave Holly Furphy the chance to cross. She put the ball on a plate for OâGrady to head home.
Next up for Jeff Hopkinsâ side is a two-legged Melbourne derby against Premiers, Melbourne City.
A second half onslaught from Brisbane Roar saw them cruise past Adelaide and into the semi-finals.
Melbourne Victory won against Canberra United to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Melbourne Victory will face their derby rivals in the semi-finals.
Melbourne Victory defeated Canberra United, and Brisbane Roar beat Adelaide United to advance.

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Erin Healyâs header drew a fine early save from Chloe Lincoln, with the Matildasâ shot-stopper diving full stretch to deny the American.
Brisbane gradually took control of the game and Kijah Stephensonâs shot was saved by the foot of Ilona Melegh.
With 50 minutes gone, Stephenson finally broke the deadlock. Alicia Woodsâ through ball was inch perfect and Stephenson did the rest, tucking home past Melegh.
Stephenson doubled her and Brisbaneâs tally just six minutes later. Her shot from the edge of the box clipped the post, leaving Melagh with no chance.
Aimee Medwin rounded off the night for The Roar as she outmuscled Zoe Tolland and poked home under the despairing dive of Melegh.
Wellington Phoenix are up next for Alex Smithâs Roar in the Elimination Finals.