Tasses keen on breaking new records with Hills United
Hills United FC coach Alan Tasses is no stranger to coaching in Grand Finals as the well admired coach sets his sights on picking up his thirteenth win on the big stage.
Sunday will mark Tasses’ 19th Grand Final appearance in his twenty-plus year coaching career.
He has won 12 of them and is looking for “unlucky” 13 on Sunday night.
It has been a magical rise for Hills United FC who came into the competition in 2022 and made back-to-back Grand Finals.
Building up a club from scratch has been tough but rewarding for Tasses who is passionate about his coaching.
“It has been tough, there is a lot of pressure in creating something but to make back-to-back Grand Finals is a massive achievement.” said Tasses.
“Last year was almost the dream. We made history with our run last year so we had to match it this season and the girls responded well.”
Hills United FC avoided a sophomore slump despite losing plenty of experience in their defence but it has meant others have stepped up.
“Seeing some of the girls step up especially [Aisling] Davidson, [Imogen] Lane and [Sarah] Easthope all being young themselves, has been amazing.
“We’re just one big footballing family at the club. From the team, to support staff and everyone else around the club and that makes things easier.
“My philosophy is that if players enjoy their football it will help their football. We have a good culture and remain competitive in a positive way.”
Tasses’ side pride themselves on defence and that is their base. They have rebuilt the team slowly which has been a bit frustrating.
“It’s been a harder season, rebuilding our defence. It is just being a bit more clinical upfront to help put games away.”
Asked for his favourite moment of the season, Tasses couldn’t go past the semi-final shootout win last weekend which got them into back-to-back deciders.
Looking forward to the big dance on Sunday, Tasses knows the tough task which lays ahead of them against St George FC.
“They are a good side, they move the ball well and beat the previously undefeated UNSW FC. We need to combat their attack but at the end of the day, it’s a Grand Final. It is an occasion to enjoy and I know the girls will give their all.”
The Football NSW League One Women’s Grand Final will be streamed live on NPL.TV on Sunday night at 6:30pm. Join Eric Subijano behind the microphone for what shapes up to be a pulsating contest.
Match Details
Sunday 17 September
Hills United FC vs St George FC
6:30pm, Valentine Sports Park
By Justin Davies
