Holly McNamara celebrates Matildas call-up with hat-trick for Melbourne City

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·7 February 2025

Holly McNamara celebrates Matildas call-up with hat-trick for Melbourne City

Holly McNamara celebrated her return to the Matildas squad with a first half hat-trick in Melbourne City’s 5-1 victory over Western United.

The 22-year-old forward was named in Tom Sermanni’s squad for the SheBelieves Cup on Tuesday, earning her first call-up in two years after recovering from a third ACL tear. A day later, she delivered a dominant performance in the A-League Women, scoring three goals in 38 minutes.

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McNamara opened the scoring in the third minute, finishing off a move started by Rhianna Pollicina. Western United captain Chloe Logarzo equalised in the 26th with a long-range strike, but McNamara quickly restored City’s lead. She capitalised on a cutback from Lourdes Bosch in the 36th minute before adding a third two minutes later, chipping goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln. McNamara was substituted in the 57th minute with cramp.

The hat-trick took McNamara’s season tally to six goals and an assist, reinforcing her importance to Melbourne City’s attack. City remain unbeaten and sit five points clear at the top of the table. Pollicina added a fourth goal in the 59th minute, and Bosch completed the win in the 71st, securing City’s first-ever victory over Western United.

Holly McNamara to return to Matildas camp

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McNamara’s inclusion in the Matildas squad for the SheBelieves Cup signals a major step in her comeback. She previously earned three international caps before injuries halted her progress. The upcoming matches against Japan, the USA and Colombia provide an opportunity for her to re-establish herself at international level.

Despite enduring three ACL injuries, McNamara remains one of the most promising talents in Australian football. Her pace, technical ability and finishing make her a key asset for Melbourne City and a potential long-term option for the Matildas. At 22, she has already overcome significant setbacks, and her performances this season suggest she has plenty more to offer.

Melbourne City will next face Newcastle Jets on Saturday. Meanwhile Western United, now sixth in the standings, travel to play Sydney FC on Sunday.