The girls will be looking to cement their spot in the top 4 in what promises to be a massive double-header against Melbourne City.
While Glory is fresh from three wins on the bounce, City has tasted defeat for the first time in the W-League in its short but illustrious history, with consecutive losses to table-topping Canberra and Western Sydney.
Despite City’s recent results, the champs are not to be taken lightly, especially in Melbourne.
The home side will be determined to return to the winner’s circle on the big stage, with the curtain-raiser to the men’s game adding extra intrigue and motivation.
The AAMI Park match-up is bound to provide plenty of highlights, with Glory and City the second and third highest scoring Westfield W-League team respectively this season.
Glory will need to continue its rich vein of form on Tuesday afternoon, with league top-scorer Sam Kerr crucial to the WA side’s hopes of extending its winning streak.
Youngster Caitlin Doeglas is adamant the squad has what it takes to topple City.
“The key is to stick to our game,” the midfielder said.
“[We need to] play to our strengths and finish the chances we get,” she added.
Key Battle: Nikki Stanton v Jess Fishlock
Stanton has been immense this season, with her expert cover from deep in midfield allowing the likes of Sam Kerr, Rosie Sutton and Vanessa DiBernardo the freedom to press forward. City’s Welsh veteran is enjoying another top class season and has urged her teammates to respond to the recent pressure against Glory this weekend. Stanton and Fishlock are crucial to both sides style of play and the battle between could very well prove decisive.
Star: Arianna Romero
The Mexican international denied a certain goal for Adelaide when the scores were tied at 0-0, which proved vital in the runaway 4-1 victory in Round 7. Romero has adapted to life in the W-League with ease, with the defender showing plenty of class and calm on the ball.
One-to-Watch: Kim Carroll
With Glory’s star-studded forward line making all the headlines, former Matilda Kim Carroll has fallen somewhat under the radar this season. The centre-back has been a picture of consistency so far, with her trademark strength and communication proving vital in a new-look back four. Caroll has continued to lead by example and demonstrated her wealth of experience with a number of timely challenges and clearances.
MATCH DETAILS:
Tuesday, 27th December 2016
Melbourne City v Perth Glory
Venue: AAMI Park
Kick-Off:2:05PM (AWST)
Referee: Casey Reibelt
Assistant Referee 1: Joanna Charaktis
Assistant Referee 2: Sarah Wikeley
Fourth Official: Danielle Anderson
TV Broadcast: Liver coverage on FOX SPORTS 505 FROM 2:00PM (AWST) and ABC TV from 2:00PM (AWST).
SQUADS:
Perth Glory Squad: 1. Melissa MAIZELS (gk), 2.Sarah CARROLL, 3.Kim CARROLL, 4.Alyssa MAUTZ, 5.Patricia CHARALAMBOUS, 7.Nicole STANTON, 8.Shawn BILLAM, 9.Rosie SUTTON, 10.Vanessa DIBERNARDO, 13.JAYMEE GIBBONS, 14.Caitlin DOEGLAS, 17.Natasha RIGBY, 18.Gabby DAL BUSCO (gk), 20.Samantha KERR (c), 22.Arianna ROMERO
Ins: 1.Melissa MAIZELS (gk) (return from injury)
Outs: 24.Morgan AQUINO (not selected)
Unavailable: Nil
Melbourne City FC Squad: 1.Lydia WILLIAMS (GK), 2.Teigen ALLEN, 3.Lauren BARNES, 5.Laura ALLEWAY, 6.Aivi LUIK, 7.Steph CATLEY (c), 10.Jessica FISHLOCK, 11.Erika TYMRAK, 13.Rebekah STOTT, 14.Melina AYRES, 15.Amy JACKSON, 16.Beverly YANEZ, 17.Marianna TABAIN, 18.Jacynta GALABADAARACHCHI, 19.Tyla-Jay VLAJNIC, 26.Erin HUDSON (GK)
**one to be omitted**
Ins: 18. Jacynta GALABADAARACHCHI (promoted)
Outs: nil
Unavailable: 9. Larissa CRUMMER (ankle – two weeks)
