We earned our first win of the 2018/19 Westfield W-League season in Round 3 with a win over an in-form Canberra United.
Craig Deans’ chargers were able to weather the attacking potency of United to keep a clean sheet, dominating play as the Club’s American contingent again stood tall when it counted.
A-LEAGUE: Talking points for Round 5
There was plenty to like from this hard-fought win, and here’s what we learnt:
Vine continues to grow
What. A. Goal. It was an absolute stunner from Young Matilda, Cortnee Vine as she made it two goals in as many games.
After a stellar off-season in the WNPL with Sydney University, the speedy attacker has started her Westfield W-League campaign in the same vein – with Katie Stengel laying on the assist on both occasions.
As for her celebration? We’re told Cortnee doesn’t mind busting a move in the gym, dressing rooms or on the training pitch – lets hope we see plenty more on game day throughout the season!
Youngsters step up
It wasn’t the most ideal of preparations for Craig Deans in the lead up to Round 3, with his marquee signing in the rehab room, an experienced attacker diagnosed with a fractured ankle and losing his captain at the eleventh hour.
You’d be forgiven for thinking the Jets were in a tough spot on Saturday after losing a wealth of experience, but the younger brigade certainly stepped in to fill the void.
Teigan Collister impressed on the wing, while Libby Copus-Brown partnered Clare Wheeler in the middle of the park – with both proving a handful in defence as they frustrated the Canberra attack.
Pana Petratos saw extended game time off the bench and the now injury-free attacker gave us a glimpse at what she’s got in her locker.
Versatility plus
With players unavailable in some key positions, Craig Deans had to make some changes to cover the loss of personnel.
Hannah Brewer played centrally to cover Crummer, while Taylor Smith again played at fullback with Deans forced to wait another week to deploy her further up the pitch.
Copus-Brown last appeared the W-League as a fullback, but found herself in midfield and Jenna Kingsley moved into a central role to cover the absence of Andrews.
Players with the ability to play numerous positions could prove crucial for Deans as the season progresses.
The Jets face Western Sydney in Round 4 of the Westfield W-League on Saturday 24 November at Marconi Stadium. Kick-off is at 7:30pm (ADST), with the match streamed live on foxsports.com.au and the MyFootball App.
