After finding themselves more than 12 points outside the top six – the Newcastle Jets are now within touching distance after their upset win against Melbourne Victory.
Despite being without star man Ola Toivonen – Keisuke Honda started again in midfield alongside Terry Antonis and James Troisi.
The Jets were determined to rectify a dismal performance the last time they played in Geelong and got off to the best possible start.
An unmarked Johnny Koutroumbris picked up the scraps at the back post to open the scoring in the 34th minute.
Keisuke Honda would have Victory’s best chance of the half with his well struck attempt from outside the area saved by Glen Moss.
Frustration began to build for the home side who had a goal ruled after Corey Brown was caught offside before playing through Kenny Athiu.
New signing James Donachie was sent off after receiving his second booking and the Jets capitalised.
As he so often does – Dimitri Petratos sealed the win with a goal of the season contender, firing the ball on his non-preferred foot into the top corner.
Not only does the win place the Jets two points outside the top six but they become just the second side this season to keep the Victory scoreless.
Victory’s next game is on March 16 at home to Brisbane Roar while the Jets host the Central Coast Mariners.
