Sydney FC’s women’s team go into their penultimate game of the season knowing only a win will guarantee their status in the Westfield W-League top four.
Sydney FC-s women-s team go into their penultimate game of the season knowing only a win will guarantee their status in the Westfield W-League top four.
Even three points against their biggest rivals Brisbane Roar on Saturday, may not secure them a finals series place and set up a ‘win or bust- final game against Western Sydney next week.
It means the Sky Blues cannot afford to take their foot off the pedal when they face the Roar at Manly-s Cromer Park tomorrow (Saturday, 3pm).
“Brisbane is always a grudge match but at such a crucial time of the season, with points so close and top four places up for grabs, it will be a really good game,” said striker Emma Kete.
“We have the experience and a lot of the girls have played in big games before, so I guess we have a pretty good chance,” she added.
However fellow Kiwi International Annalie Longo is under no illusions about the size of this weekend-s task, against the team who controversially knocked Sydney out of last year-s semi-finals.
“It-s a must win for both teams but definitely for us and especially against a great side like Brisbane. It will be tough but we are looking forward to it,” said the midfielder.
“It is good to have a lot of teams competing for that top four, it keeps it exciting and challenging and it-s anyone-s game at the moment,” added Longo.
Emma and Annalie are two of four of the W-League side who live in the Manly area and the beachside habitat is something they believe has helped them settle.
“I-m really enjoying it here, especially where we live by the beach,” said Emma. “It-s really good to go to football and then come home and go to the beach and chill out.”
“Being here, living in Manly it-s pretty nice,” continued Annalie. “It-s not bad going to training and coming home and getting in the water so I-ve enjoyed it.”
With the A-League team not playing until later that evening, the pair are hoping for some local backing in what is their biggest game of the season so far.
“Hopefully a few of the Manly locals will come out and watch,” said Emma. “We-ve made a few friends here, so hopefully lots of people come out and support us at Cromer Park on Saturday.”
“It would be great to have a full stadium if possible,” Annalie concluded.
Fans are encouraged to get there early (from 2pm) and enjoy jumping castles, face painters and a BBQ in the sun. Sky Blue Members get free entry into the match by showing their HAL Membership card. W-League Memberships are still available here and include free food and a post-match meet and greet with the players. Alternatively fans can click here to download a FLYER for FREE entry into the match.
