Ben Gilby continues his series of in-depth feature interviews with members of Glory’s Liberty A-League squad by catching up with in-form goalkeeper, Morgan Aquino.
Morgan was forced from the field during Saturday’s home draw with Canberra United, but her arm is not broken as was initially feared and she is recovering well.
Morgan Aquino is in the form of her life.
The Perth Glory goalkeeper has produced a season of stunning saves and four clean sheets, propelling the team towards Finals football.
The 22-year-old, in her second spell at the club after a year at Brisbane Roar, believes a combination of added confidence and taking a long break prior to this season starting are the secrets behind her outstanding performances.
“I’m super happy with my form this season so far,” Aquino said.
“I feel confident in every action and also in our game plan which is a credit to our coaching staff.
“I feel as if I’m playing with lots of freedom which is also helping.
“Honestly the best thing I did during the off-season was go on a holiday.
“I went to Europe for four weeks and it’s refreshed me completely.
“I’ve never had a break, and had time to myself before so it definitely helped me to focus and be all in this season.”
After the two previous campaigns, which saw Aquino competing with first Courtney Newbon and then Sarah Langman for a spot in the starting line-up, this time round, the former Northern Redbacks shot-stopper has started every game.
It was a situation that she feels has again played a significant part in driving her performance levels this year to another level; the hunger and desire to get the number one slot and retain it.
“It means you have to be all-in 100{e0eacfde3737b7a6d6d38e6c2fa2b27ad4b47af816b194a8894ca596baf1880e} of the time and train well,” Aquino explained.
“I find it really beneficial as I cannot take it easy; I’m being pushed and that’s helping me perform when it counts.”
This is Aquino’s seventh season at the Glory and there is a strong sense of pride and determination within her to ensure that the team can reach its potential.
“I love playing here for my hometown club,” she said.
“It has obviously changed a lot over the years due to ownership and coaches, but the goal as a whole club has remained the same to compete to be a winning club.
“The girls are amazing, we all get on very well off the pitch which helps on the pitch.
“We are able to communicate and put full trust in each other and it shows in our performances.”
As for what she wants to achieve this season, the message is crystal clear.
“To win the league!” she said.
“It is the reason we play to lift that trophy and we are constantly looking for that.
“I want to continue to perform and put us in the best position to win the competition.”
Glory return to ALW action on Sunday evening when Central Coast Mariners will provide the opposition at Macedonia Park.
Kick-off is at 7:30pm and tickets are available HERE.
#ONEGlory
