The 2011-12 campaign was a turbulent and deeply frustrating season for Melbourne Victory as The Big V slumped to a disappointing 8th-place finish in the A-League, missing the finals series. The year was defined by a chaotic mid-season with manager Mehmet Durakovic sacked after only three wins, followed by the interim appointment of Jim Magilton, and the constant, exhausting distraction of the marquee signing, Harry Kewell. Despite the turmoil, the gifted Costa Rican playmaker Carlos Hernández led the charge with 10 crucial goals, though even his wizardry couldn't make up for the loss of bulldog spirit left by the retirement of legendary captain Kevin Muscat. It was a dark, unforgettable year that saw the club hit a low point before a necessary overhaul.. The 2012-13 campaign was a season of vital rejuvenation and attacking brilliance for Melbourne Victory as The Big V finished a strong 3rd in the A-League under the new manager Ange Postecoglou, securing a coveted place in the Asian Champions League. Leading the charge was the sensational young "Kiwi Messi," Marco Rojas, whose 14 goals anchored a thrilling attack alongside Archie Thompson and Mark Milligan, and whose stellar performance earned him the prestigious Johnny Warren Medal (A-League Player of the Year) before his move to VfB Stuttgart. It was a breakout year that saw the club re-establish itself as a top contender, providing hope and a defining chapter for the Big V faithful.