Canberra United fired a warning shot to its W-League rivals and staked its claim for the title with a thrilling win against competition leaders Sydney FC on Wednesday night.
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The fiery clash sets up Canberra's charge to the championship with just two regular season games remaining before the play-offs.
Top of the table Sydney was undefeated going into the match after scoring 32 goals in its first nine games of the season.
But Canberra's defence held strong, denying the league leaders a chance for an undefeated season.
It was just the second time in W-League history Canberra had beaten Sydney.
Canberra's only previous win was in its 2011-12 championship-winning campaign.
"We know we're already in finals and we're just building towards the right end of the season," former Canberra captain Ellie Brush said.
"This game against Sydney meant more. We've shown that we're up there and we can contend for the championship.
"It's a good omen, we can do it with this squad and we've got the belief we can go all the way."
Tempers were at boiling point as Canberra narrowly escaped having players sent off, the referee handing out four yellow cards following some ruthless tackles.
Canberra, third on the ladder, will play Newcastle United at McKellar Park on Saturday before a rematch against Sydney in the last regular-season game.
Defender Sally Rojahn was outstanding in shutting down Sydney's star attacking trio of Sam Kerr, Jodie Taylor and Emma Kete.
Star striker Michelle Heyman booted Canberra into the lead in the first 10 minutes when she launched a 20-metre rocket into the top corner.
Sydney hit back before half-time with a superb Renee Rollason free-kick from 30 metres out.
But after the break Canberra took advantage of Sydney's tired legs and hit the lead when Ash Sykes' blistering speed won a penalty and Caitlin Munoz converted.
Canberra coach Elisabeth Migchelsen warned her team against looking too far ahead.
"We're not looking forward or at the [good omen] in the past, it's just another game," Migchelsen said.
"We know we're in the play-offs, that will free us up a bit and this is a bonus."
CANBERRA UNITED 2 (Michelle Heyman 10m, Cailtin Munoz 61m pen) bt SYDNEY FC 1 (Renee Rollason 37m) at McKellar Park on Wednesday night. Crowd: 865. Referee: Kirralee Andruschak.
