For Ilona Melegh, Saturday’s clean sheet wasn’t just another statistic. It was the reward for years of hard work, belief, and a dream that began long before she ever pulled on an Adelaide United jersey.
Making her third start for Adelaide United, the Club’s youngest-ever goalkeeper produced a composed performance between the posts, being awarded Player of the Match and helping the Reds shut out the opposition and take another important step forward this season.
“Yeah, it was really good to see all my hard work pay off,” Melegh said. “It’s been a goal of mine for ages. Since I was a little kid, I’ve always wanted to play for Adelaide United, so to finally have that starting spot feels like a dream come true.”
From a personal perspective, the clean sheet carried extra meaning.
“It meant a lot,” she explained. “The week before, I felt like I could have done better, and this week showed that I can do it. Even though I’m young, I’m still able to come out and keep a clean sheet.”
At just 17, Melegh has already reached milestones few players achieve so early — making her professional debut last season against Melbourne Victory and now earning starts in one of football’s most demanding positions.
“It’s really good to get that opportunity,” she said. “Having such an experienced backline in front of me helps so much. Tonks (Ella Tonkin), Zoe (Tolland), Izzy (Hodgson), they’re all so experienced and they back me in. They give me tips, help me through games, and even though they know I’m young, they treat me like an older player as well.”
That familiarity has come from time spent growing together within the squad.
“We’ve played together for a while now,” Melegh said. “They know how I play and what I need, and I know what they need too.”
Away from football, Melegh has also shown maturity beyond her years, making the tough decision to place her cricket career on hold to fully focus on football.
“I haven’t quit cricket, I’ve just put it on hold,” she explained. “I still love it — it’s been a passion since I was really young. I was picked for Cricket Australia Under 19s, but I didn’t want to jeopardise my spot with the Young Matildas or here at Adelaide. I knew I was fighting for that first spot, and going away wouldn’t have helped.”
While cricket remains close to her heart, her focus is clear for now.
“It was a hard decision, but football comes first. Maybe I’ll play a bit again in the future, even just for fun. You never know.”
Looking ahead, Melegh’s ambitions mirror the collective belief within the group.
“As a team, our goal is to win the league, that’s what we’re all working towards,” she said.
“Personally, a few more clean sheets would be nice, and to finish the season strongly and do well at the Asian Cup.”