Women’s State League Round 5 Preview
The sun is shining brightly over New South Wales for what feels like the first time in weeks, meaning we should be in store for a full round of Women’s State League this weekend.
Southern District Emeralds vs. APIA Leichhardt Tigers – Sunday 10 May, 3PM at Ernie Smith Reserve
With both teams having not played competitively for nearly three weeks, hopes will be high for both the Emeralds and Tigers about starting anew in this round of Women’s State League. Both sides have lost each of their opening fixtures and will be determined to claim their first three points of the season this Sunday at Ernie Smith Reserve.
At their home ground, and having been competitive in both of their first two games, the Emeralds will be considered favourites leading into this clash. The Tigers did not play well in their opening encounters, but with three weeks of training under their belts, will fancy themselves a strong chance to come out victorious against an opposition they’re tied on points with.
Western NSW Mariners FC vs. Parramatta FC – Sunday 10 May, 3PM at Glen Willow Stadium
The Mariners are one of two teams who have played three games this season (instead of two), and sit confidently at the top of the table thereby. They have established themselves as the league’s strongest early contender, winning all three of their games. In last round’s only completed game, the Mariners swept aside a strong Mt. Druitt outfit to win 4-1.
Parramatta FC are newcomers to the Women’s State League, and are still finding their feet in the competition. The Mariners will likely prove their most difficult challenge yet, and it will take an almighty effort from the Parramatta ladies to emerge with three points. They will probably be happy with a draw.
Gladesville Ravens vs. St George FC – Sunday 10 May, 3PM at Peel Park
Gladesville Ravens have won both of their games this season, while St. George have won only one. However, there is a strong sense that any such form will be irrelevant leading into this week’s game, with neither side having played for nearly three weeks.
Gladesville will be determined to continue their winning streak and put their hands up as the Mariners’ strongest rival in this early stage of the season. St. George will provide a considerable challenge to these aspirations, and will also rate their chances of a victory highly. While they have been somewhat inconsistent in their first two fixtures, with more training under their belt, they are hoping to smooth over their rough edges.
Mt. Druitt Town Rangers FC vs. Bankstown City – Sunday 10 May, 3PM at Popondetta Park
Out in the west of Sydney, the result of this clash between two strong attacking sides could come down to who defends most effectively. The Rangers have shown a strong offensive prowess this season, however have leaked too many goals in each of their opening three fixtures. Last week’s 4-1 loss to the Mariners emphasised their apparent weakness in defence.
Bankstown City are also a strong attacking side, who will be disappointed to have lost narrowly in their opening round, but won comfortably against Parramatta the following week. They are disadvantaged, somewhat, by the fact that their round four fixture was a casualty to rain, where the Rangers’ game was not. That being said, they could be considered a more experienced and well rounded side than their opposition this weekend. Whoever can defend their own goal best will likely take the three points.
-by Daniel Palmer, Women’s State League Reporter
