Matildas star Kyah Simon has returned home to represent the Sky Blues once again in the Westfield W-League 2014 season, with the competition commencing this weekend.
– By Alison Taunton
After sitting last season out due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, the 23-year-old forward couldn’t be happier to return to Sydney FC and wants to ensure she is at her peak for her first match.
“Whether it is my fitness or style of play, I want to make an impact on the W-League when I return,” Simon said.
“I’m over the moon because it’s been a very long twelve months.
“It’s just awesome to be back in a team environment and on the football pitch training.”
Simon is excited to be back in the hands of Sydney FC coach Alen Stajcic, who has played a huge part in shaping the player she is today.
“He’s been the most dominant and influential coach in my career,” she said.
“A lot of my development and many football decisions I’ve made have been due to him and his guidance.”
Simon is one of three players who have made the return move from rivals Western Sydney Wanderers to represent Sydney FC, with Servet Uzunlar and Teigen Allen also set to pull on the Sky Blue jersey.
And Simon is confident their experience together will shine on the field.
“The three of us are all familiar with Staj’s playing style and philosophy,” she said.
“It’s exciting we’ve reunited.
“We have great team morale and you can sense that on the field.”
Though she will be watching Sydney FC’s opener from the sideline as she nears the end of her recovery, Simon has high hopes for her teammates starting the season with a win.
“I am going to back the girls all the way and I hope we come away with a win and get off to a good start for this year’s Westfield W-League.”
While Simon is hopeful Sydney FC will take the three points, she admits the league is becoming more competitive each season and Adelaide United will not be an easy feat.
“It’s going to be hard. I think the longer the W-League goes on and the more seasons that come, the competition is getting a lot more competitive,” Simon said.
“Adelaide surprised a lot of people last year with a different approach to the season and were no longer the team that was trying not to lose. They were actually going in to games and trying to win – knowing that they can win.”
Sydney FC will take on Adelaide United at Lambert Park in Leichhardt on Sunday 14 September. (4pm kick off).
BECOME A W-LEAGUE MEMBER TODAY! – Sydney FC’s W-League squad would love your support again as they strive to regain the W-League Championship. See the girls play for just $75 or for the discounted price of $45 if you’re a current A-League Member.
To purchase, simply call 1300 4 SYD FC (79 332) or fill out and return application form.
