Keisuke Honda has netted his first goal in Melbourne Victory colours.

The Japanese star fired home a first half penalty during Victory’s 3-1 behind-closed-doors friendly defeat to Wellington Phoenix earlier today.

Victory fans will hope that strike from 12 yards is the first of many from their 32-year-old marquee, who is set to spearhead the club's Championship defence in the upcoming Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season.

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That title defence begins in little over a fortnight for Kevin Muscat’s side, who welcome the new campaign with a Melbourne derby against rivals Melbourne City.

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While Honda’s debut strike for Victory will take the headlines from the Wellington clash, the New Zealanders will undoubtedly be buoyed by a fine performance against the reigning Hyundai A-League Champions.

A strong, defensive showing from Mark Rudan's men was highlighted by a hat-trick from Phoenix star Roy Krishna, who struck a first-half penalty and put away two second-half efforts to seal a confidence boosting friendly win.