In a stunning display of attacking prowess, Perth Glory forward Tom Lawrence has single-handedly dismantled Melbourne City, netting a brilliant hat-trick to secure a memorable 3-1 away victory. The result on December 28, 2025, marks Glory's first win at AAMI Park in nearly five years, a venue that had become a nightmare for the Western Australian side.
Lawrence Ends Glory's Hoodoo in Melbourne
The Welsh international, a high-profile signing for the club, delivered his finest performance in Glory colours, ending the team's long drought for a hat-trick. The last Perth player to achieve the feat was Andy Keogh back in 2021. Under the guidance of new coach Adam Griffiths, Glory's resurgence continued as they climbed to seventh on the A-League Men's ladder with this statement win over the reigning champions.
For years, trips to AAMI Park have been disastrous for Perth, having conceded 19 goals in their previous five visits and suffering a 4-0 defeat in round two that cost former coach David Zdrilic his job. However, backed by a vocal travelling support, Glory produced a composed and clinical first-half performance before weathering a second-half storm to claim all three points.
A Masterclass in Finishing
Lawrence opened the scoring after just ten minutes. Young forward Arion Sulemani turned defender Liam Bonteig on the touchline, and Trent Ostler's cutback found Lawrence, who slid the ball home calmly. The former Rangers and Derby County attacker, a product of the Manchester United youth system, was in inspired form.
He doubled the lead shortly after, capitalising on a heavy touch from Sulemani to drive a low shot into the corner of the net. Lawrence could have had multiple assists, twice setting up Sulemani, only for City goalkeeper Patrick Beach to make excellent saves. Glory rode their luck at times in the first period, with goalkeeper Matt Sutton making a crucial point-blank save with his shin to deny Andreas Kuen.
The defensive duo of Scott Wootton and Brian Kaltak stood firm against relentless City pressure, making vital blocks and clearances. Will Freney also impressed in midfield with a tireless display.
Sealing the Points and Looking Ahead
Despite Melbourne City dominating possession after the break, they lacked a cutting edge. Glory's resistance was finally rewarded in the 80th minute. On a swift counter-attack, Lawrence initially passed up a chance to play in substitute Adam Taggart, but was perfectly positioned to tap in the rebound after Beach parried Taggart's powerful strike.
City managed a late consolation goal when Sutton lost possession in his own box to Emin Durakovic, allowing Andrew Nabbout to finish into an empty net. However, it was nothing more than a footnote on a day that belonged entirely to Tom Lawrence and a resurgent Perth Glory.
This victory not only breaks a significant psychological barrier for the team but also firmly announces Lawrence as the talisman they hoped he would be. The result provides massive momentum for coach Adam Griffiths as he continues to reshape the team's identity and fortunes.
