After a long offseason and an equally long preseason everything comes into play on Sunday at Lambert Park as Sydney FC kick off their Westfield W-League 2014 campaign at home to Adelaide United. (kick off 4pm).
Head Coach Alen Stajcic has rejuvenated his squad with some familiar faces plus two American imports, and the two time Championship winning coach is itching to get back out on the park and put everything he’s instilled in the girls to the test.
“I can’t wait to get back out there,” Stajcic said.
“It’s been a fairly long offseason and we’ve had a fairly long preseason too so getting back into the games is always good.
“We’re looking pretty good, the girls have been progressing well and hopefully we can bring that onto the park in round one,” he continued.
“The two American girls [Jasmyne Spencer and Samantha Johnson] have slotted in really well so I’m expecting big things from them.”
In their previous encounter at Adelaide Shores Centre, a late Amy Harrison goal clinched the three points for the Sky Blues in a tense match, and Stajcic is expecting Sunday’s game to pan out in a similar fashion as both teams enter round one high in confidence.
“I’m expecting a similar, tight match,” Stajcic said.
“They were definitely the big improvers last season and with [Head Coach] Ross Aloisi they’ll be very competitive.
“I’m sure confidence is high within their camp and they’ll be looking to build on last year but so are we so I’m expecting a tough game but hopefully we can edge them out again,” he continued.
“Expect us to hit the ground running, we’ve got no excuses. We’re going to be a positive team and a proactive team and hopefully that will work again this year.”
With little other sport on Sunday in Sydney, Stajcic has called for as many fans as possible to fill Lambert Park and back the girls as they chase further success in 2014.
“I hope all the fans can come out on Sunday,” said Stajcic.
“There is no other football on so hopefully everyone can come and see Sydney FC’s Womens team.
“We’ve been successful for a long time so I hope all the Sydney FC fans come out in support and make lots of noise and spur the girls on to try and start with a bang.”
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To purchase, simply call 1300 4 SYD FC (79 332) or fill out and return application form.
