Auckland FC win A-League opener with two goals from Lachlan Bayliss

Saturday 17 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 8 reports · updated Sun 18 Oct, 3:30pm

In this story Auckland FC, All Whites, Melbourne City

Defending champions Auckland FC defeated Melbourne City 3-1 at Go Media Stadium to begin their A-League Men title defence. New signing and All Whites midfielder Lachlan Bayliss scored twice on his debut, including a long-range effort, while Lachie Brook added a third goal.

How they headlined it

19h

Sat 4:35pm6:58pmSun 2pm3:19pm

1. StuffSat 17 Oct, 4:35pm

   Live: Auckland FC v Melbourne City – A-League Men round one (opens in new tab)

   • All Whites midfielder stars with two goals in Auckland FC debut (opens in new tab) Sat 17 Oct, 6:58pm
   • Auckland FC player ratings: Tell us how they performed against Melbourne City (opens in new tab) Sat 17 Oct, 7:00pm
   • Lachlan Bayliss on his two-goal Auckland FC debut (opens in new tab) Sun 18 Oct, 3:19pm
   • ‘Why not?’: Dream goal gives All White Lachlan Bayliss perfect start to life with Auckland FC (opens in new tab) Sun 18 Oct, 3:30pm
2. NZ HeraldSat 17 Oct, 4:53pm

   Auckland FC v Melbourne City live updates: A-League season opener (opens in new tab)

   • Auckland FC: How new recruit Lachlan Bayliss became an instant hit after debut performance (opens in new tab) Sun 18 Oct, 2:00pm
3. The Post via StuffSat 17 Oct, 7:16pm

   A-League Men: Lachlan Bayliss makes stunning debut for Auckland FC in 3-1 opening win over Melbourne City (opens in new tab)