ROUND 17 OF THE A-LEAGUE WOMEN COMPETITION AT A GLANCE:

THEY SAID IT: "If anyone's ever played at Western United, they know there's 100km-per-hour winds. But the wind worked in my favour and the ball just rocketed off my forehead ... I'm happy I have a strong neck." - Victory captain Kayla Morrison told Paramount Plus she was delighted to head home the winner against Western United.

WOMAN OF THE WEEK: Newcastle's Sophie Hoban only needed three minutes to make the Jets' clash with Perth Glory her own. Hoban scored from long range in the second minute, then tapped home again in the third minute to lead the Jets to a 2-1 win.

STAT ATTACK: Melbourne City are now 18 games unbeaten, equalling the league record. If they beat Brisbane Roar next week, they will set a new benchmark.

BEAT THAT: Laini Freier celebrated her first Matildas cap in style, brilliantly chipping Sydney goalkeeper Bethany Mason-Jones. But Sydney skipper Natalie Tobin scored a belter of her own, drilling home the equaliser from long range, before the Sky Blues claimed a 3-2 win.

UNDER PRESSURE: Sixth-placed Central Coast have lost two games on the bounce, are on a three-game winless run and have spurned chances to solidify their top-six spot. The chasing pack is licking its lips.

UP NEXT: Western United head further west for a Friday night clash with Perth. On Saturday, Newcastle host Sydney, while top-two aspirants Adelaide take on Central Coast. On Sunday, Wellington play in-form Western Sydney and Victory host Canberra before the Roar face City.