What an outstanding season this has already been. Our City girls have shown that they have what it takes to challenge for silverware, and it may not be over yet. With a win over Newcastle, the final round will be a fight for the Premiership!
Of course, we cannot get ahead of ourselves. As we saw last week, we can be beaten by anyone at any time. It is time to focus.
With the potential of silverware on the line, here are the three talking points leading into tonight’s match:
Return of the Ferns
We simply missed them against the Roar, but our top scorer Hannah Wilkinson and midfield boss Rebekah Stott are back. Despite an unsuccessful trip with the New Zealand national team, the experienced duo will certainly bring back some fight and determination with them.
In a game we’re expected to win, their hunger and drive is needed, especially when so much is riding on three points at ABD Stadium.
Should we expect Wilko to get on the scoresheet? With 10 in 10 this season, and 13 being the golden boot leader, it is not silly to assume she will be preparing her shooting boots for a big night.
Who will provide the creativity?
All season, we have seen up and coming star Holly McNamara bamboozle defences and act as the core service provider for Wilkinson. With her devastating injury, who will be one who steps up?
While Rhianna Pollicina has been outrageously good on the ball, racking up six goals this season, she isn’t quite the provider considering she has not been credited with an assist (I guess FBRef has just forgotten that Wilkinson's headed winner against Brisbane happened...) However, another young gun, Leticia McKenna, has shown some bright sparks.
Per FBRef.com, McKenna sits in second place for assists per 90 with an impressive 0.37. Only second to McNamara’s 0.41… Could another young gun shine?
Fight until the end
Our girls have shown the character and grit that we expect at this club. Despite having so many new faces this season, they have defied the odds and guaranteed Finals football, and have silverware up for grabs.
No matter what we finish with this season, we must rally the girls and be extremely proud of how far we have come. Rado Vidošić has pulled off an incredible season, where gems have been found in McNamara and careers reignited in Melissa Barbieri.
There is one home game left in the regular season. Let’s get down there and show the girls the support they deserve. Win, lose, draw; we are City.
Score Prediction: City 2-0 Newcastle
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