Glory Women open their season at nib Stadium in a massive double-header against Western Sydney Wanderers in what should be an exciting campaign.
2016/2017 Preview:
– Team to Beat: Melbourne City
– One to Watch: Rosie Sutton
– Key Match: Round 2, Brisbane Roar, Dorrien Gardens
– Talisman: Sam Kerr
– Young Prospects: Stanett & Doeglas
– International Flavour: DiBernardo, Mautz, Romero & Stanton
Last Season:
An injury plagued 2016/2017 season saw the Perth Glory Women finish in 7th position, with Skipper Sam Kerr sidelined for a majority of the campaign. Despite the injuries, the WA side produced a lot of encouraging football. In particular, the inspiring performances of US imports Vanessa DiBernardo and Nikki Stanton, proved vital, along with the promising displays of youngsters Angelique Stannett and Caitlin Doeglas. DiBernardo was a revelation, with the American forward scoring a brace on debut and going on to win Glory’s Golden Boot and MGP (Most Glorious Player) despite only playing eight matches.
Upcoming Season:
Glory’s season begins in exciting fashion, with their opening round match-up against the Wanderers part of a double-header at nib Stadium. Head coach Bobby Despotovski will be hoping Kerr’s return to fitness will see the striking of a lethal attacking partnership between the Matildas star and DiBernardo. With DiBernardo’s vision and energy combined with Kerr’s technique and expert finishing, the duo could together light up the league this season. It’s also been a busy off-season in regards to transfers, with Mexican international Arianna Romero and Missouri-born attacking-midfielder Alyssa Mautz joining the Perth side. Along with Romero and Mautz, Glory has also re-signed attackers Rosie Sutton and Nikki Stanton, which adds further depth, quality, and experience to the team.
Prediction:
The mix of experience and young talent combined with the new international flavour could see a run into the finals. Come finals time who knows what could happen.
