Victorious Ayres' strike grounds Jets

Melina Ayres has scored an early contender for goal of the season with a 30-yard screamer helping propel Melbourne Victory to a 2-1 W-League win over Newcastle.

Ayres, 19, let fly from distance in the seventh minute of Thursday's second round clash at Lakeside Stadium to spark a mini glut of goals before Victory dominated to close out their first win of the season.

Victory doubled their lead in the 11th minute when English striker Natasha Dowie guided a precise through ball from Grace Maher past despairing American goalkeeper Britt Eckerstrom.

Newcastle rallied after the dual setback and pulled one back soon after the restart when Cortnee Vine capitalised on Katie Stengels to find space despite the attention of three defenders.

American midfielder Christine Nairn was a stand out for Melbourne, showcasing her class with some threatening long balls causing compatriot Eckerstrom some anxious moments.

Victory were held to a goalless draw by Adelaide in their first outing while it was the Jets first game of the season after an opening round bye.