Round 23 Preview – League One Women’s
Round 23 marks the final bend of what has been a thrilling and unpredictable Football NSW League One Women’s competition.
With six teams still fighting for four finals positions, every point becomes crucial as clubs look to put their best foot forward across another important weekend of action.
Our Match of the Round sees Marconi Stallions FC host Newcastle Jets FC.
Let’s get onto the preview!
Match of the Round: Marconi Stallions FC vs Newcastle Jets FC
Sunday 2 August, 5pm – Marconi Stadium
Marconi Stallions FC host Newcastle Jets FC in a crucial Match of the Round clash at Marconi Stadium #2 on Sunday evening.
The Stallions returned to the winners’ circle last weekend with an entertaining 5-2 victory over Bankstown City Lions FC.
Jasmyn Windsor has been in outstanding form in recent weeks and the winger will be looking to continue her impressive run in front of the Football NSW cameras.
Marconi will be without influential midfielder Marie Herrera after she was sent off during the second half of their big win.
Newcastle Jets FC enter the contest full of confidence after securing a tense 1-0 victory over Blacktown Spartans FC in last weekend’s Match of the Round.
Sharpshooter Mackenzie Preston-Poole delivered the decisive moment, adding another highlight to what has been an excellent season.
Matilda Fleming also impressed on her first start, producing a composed performance at the back to help the Jets secure a clean sheet.
This match will be streamed LIVE on the Football NSW YouTube channel, with Daniel Gualterio behind the microphone.
Central Coast Mariners FC vs Blacktown Spartans FC
Sunday 2 August, 5pm – Pluim Park
Central Coast Mariners FC face Blacktown Spartans FC at Pluim Park on Sunday afternoon.
The Mariners secured a valuable point last weekend, scoring late to earn a 1-1 draw against finals contenders South Coast Flame FC.
Ruth Hosie has been a consistent performer for the Mariners throughout the campaign and will have a key role in containing the Spartans’ attacking threats.
It has been a challenging season for the yellow and navy, but they have the opportunity to play spoiler for the teams chasing finals football.
Blacktown Spartans FC suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Newcastle Jets FC in the Match of the Round last weekend.
Despite the loss, captain Sheiden Jabour produced another strong performance, helping limit the impact of the Jets’ dangerous attacking players.
The Spartans will take confidence from their first-half performance and will be looking to improve their finishing as they push for three points.
Camden Tigers FC vs Blacktown City FC
Sunday 2 August, 5pm – Ron Dine Reserve
Camden Tigers FC host Blacktown City FC at Ron Dine Reserve on Sunday afternoon.
The Tigers played out a 1-1 draw against Nepean FC at the same venue last weekend.
Sydney Mikes has earned a place in the starting side following her performances in the Under 23s and will be looking to produce another strong showing on Sunday.
Veteran Ashlee Taff continues to provide valuable experience and leadership as Camden looks to finish the season strongly.
Blacktown City FC travel to the South-West refreshed after having the bye in Round 22.
Their previous match saw them suffer a 3-1 defeat against an in-form Sutherland Strikers FC side, although Molly Reckless continued her strong season by converting from the penalty spot.
Samantha Edwards has been a consistent presence between the posts in recent weeks and could be called upon for some important saves against Camden.
Sutherland Strikers FC vs SD Raiders FC
Sunday 2 August, 5pm – Harrie Dening Centre
Sutherland Strikers FC welcome league leaders SD Raiders FC to Harrie Dening Centre on Sunday afternoon.
The Strikers enter the contest after a strong 3-1 derby victory over St George FC at Barton Park last weekend.
Ella Munro has scored in consecutive matches, providing Sutherland with another dangerous attacking option heading into the final stages of the season.
This is a crucial match for the Strikers, who sit just one point outside the top four and are pushing for a late finals charge.
SD Raiders FC produced another outstanding performance last weekend, defeating Inter Lions FC 5-0 at Ernie Smith Reserve.
Sharina Harris has been responsible for some spectacular goals this season and will be eager to add to her tally.
A key strength of the SD Raiders has been their ability to develop young talent while competing at the top of the table, with Harper Ingram the latest player to make her senior debut after a late appearance last weekend.
Nepean FC vs South Coast Flame FC
Sunday 2 August, 5pm – Jamison Park Field #1
Nepean FC take on South Coast Flame FC in an important clash at Jamison Park Field #1 on Sunday afternoon.
The hosts showed plenty of character last weekend, fighting back to earn a 1-1 draw against Camden Tigers FC.
It was a memorable afternoon for Ripeka Robbins, who scored her first goal for the club after making an impact off the bench for coach Sean Payer.
While finals football may be out of reach for Nepean, they will be looking to finish the season strongly and push towards a top-half finish.
South Coast Flame FC were denied victory late last weekend, being held to a 1-1 draw by Central Coast Mariners FC at Kembla Grange.
Cristina Barraza returned to the starting lineup and her attacking presence could prove important as the Flame look to return home with all three points.
With the League One Women’s ladder becoming increasingly congested from third to sixth, three points are vital for South Coast’s finals hopes.
Inter Lions FC vs St George FC
Sunday 2 August, 5pm – Majors Bay Reserve
Inter Lions FC face St George FC at Majors Bay Reserve on Sunday evening.
The Lions suffered a 5-0 defeat against league leaders SD Raiders FC at Ernie Smith Reserve last weekend.
Coach John Di Biase will be looking for a strong response after a positive month of football and will rely on attacking threats Hannah Charak and Alyssa Walsh to help inspire a turnaround.
St George FC enter the contest after a 3-1 defeat against Sutherland Strikers FC at Barton Park.
Winger Danielle Rutstein scored the Saints’ only goal and remains a dangerous attacking outlet.
Maiya Perdikaris has taken responsibility from set pieces in recent weeks, with her delivery from free-kicks and corners likely to be important as St George searches for three points.
Bankstown City Lions FC have the bye.
By Justin Davies
