Francis de Vries of Auckland FC controls the ball against Melbourne Victory. Photo: AAP/Photosport
Auckland FC have kicked off their second A-League campaign with a goal-less draw against Melbourne Victory in Melbourne.
Playing against the team that eliminated them from championship contention last season in the semi-finals, the Black Knights created plenty of half chances, unleashing more shots - and more on goal - than their rivals.
Auckland's best chance came from a corner on the half hour, when striker Jesse Randall somehow pushed the ball wide from pointblank range.
Randall had two shots blocked and midfielder Louis Verstrate another in the second half.
Auckland earned four yellow cards, including one for dissent from coach Steve Corica, as regulation time ran out, and neither side could crack the defence in four added minutes.
Ironically, this result at their last meeting would have seen the Knights into the A-League final.
Auckland FC return home to face Western Sydney next Saturday.
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