Sydney FC Women’s Head Coach James Slaveski is confident his side can bounce back when they travel north to face Brisbane Roar on Saturday, with several key players returning to the squad.
The Sky Blues are looking to respond after last weekend’s disappointing result, but Slaveski believes there were positives to take from the performance and is pleased with the reaction on the training pitch.
“Last week was disappointing in terms of the result and the first half in particular. It wasn’t really us, irrespective of the circumstances that we were in,” Slaveski said.
“There were small moments from a behavioural perspective that we needed to be better at and we weren’t, so they’re easy fixes. Tactically, there were still some really good positives in there as well.”
Key Players Return
Sydney FC are set to receive a welcome boost, with players returning from international duty and injury as the squad gradually comes back together.
Slaveski confirmed that Willa Pearson, Rubi Sullivan and Claire Corbett are all in contention to start after their involvement at the recent FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup, while Amber Luchtmeijer is also back in the squad following a spell on the sidelines.
“We know their qualities and we’ve missed them in this period. They’ve had a great experience overseas at the World Cup, but for us now they’re back on deck and they know their roles and their jobs,” he said.
“Having Amber back is great because of what she brings on and off the ball especially with her ability to run in behind and close down the space when we’re out of possesion.”
Focus on the Job
Slaveski expects a tough challenge against a Brisbane side capable of causing problems, but is confident in what his team can produce.
“They’ve got players that can hurt us if we’re not careful, but ultimately we focus on us. Ninety per cent of what we do is on us, and we sprinkle in the opponent within that each week,” he said.
“If we do what we’re capable of doing, I’m confident that we can get the result that we want. It’s not going to be an easy game up there, it never is.”
Saturday’s match will also see the Sky Blues wear their new third kit, celebrating The Cove and their contribution to the club’s atmosphere.
“The active supporters are what make the league what it is. The Cove in particular, in my opinion, are the best in the league in terms of their active support,” Slaveski said.
“It’s great that we can honour them through our kit. The girls really like it, it’s a cool kit, and hopefully we can get a win for them.”
Match Details
Brisbane Roar v Sydney FC
Ninja A-League 2026/27 MW3
Saturday 31st October 2026
Gioca Stadium, Brisbane, QLD
Kick Off: 3pm AEDT (2pm Local)
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Streaming
