Sydney FC captain Sarah Hunter believes the Sky Blues are laying strong foundations despite recent results, as the side prepares to return home against Adelaide United on Friday night at Leichhardt Oval.
Fresh off a narrow loss to league leaders Melbourne City, Hunter says the performance marked a significant step forward for a young Sydney FC squad.
“It was frustrating in the end, but probably our best overall performance of the season,” Hunter said.
“We had really good patches of play and even speaking to some of the City girls, they were impressed with the way we played.”
“There’s lots to take from that game and plenty of positives we’re hoping to carry forward.”
Sharper edge on the training pitch
Following a tough stretch of travel and an extended time away from home, Hunter says there has been a noticeable shift in intensity at training.
“Since New Zealand there’s been a bit of a change,” she explained.
“When things go wrong, you need to change it. If you keep doing the same things, you won’t get different outcomes.”
“The intensity has lifted and we’re pushing each other more so that we train how we want to play and take that into games.”
Growing into the captaincy
Back at the club after time in France, Hunter is embracing her role as captain while acknowledging the collective leadership within the squad, especially with Nat Tobin continuing to play an influential role around the group.
“Nat is still a huge part of the group, but on the pitch we’ve had to shift our leadership,” Hunter said.
“I might wear the armband, but there are so many leaders in this team.”
“It’s a learning process for me. I was one of the younger players not that long ago and now I’m captain, so I’m just trying to figure out how I can lead in the best way for the team.”
Guiding the next generation
With several teenagers featuring regularly the most recent being 15-year-old Claire Corbett, Hunter is keenly aware of the challenges facing young players navigating professional football.
“I walked their path not that long ago,” she said.
“It’s about being there if they need it, not telling them there’s one right way.”
“It’s more than football — it’s life, finishing school, moving out of home, dealing with new challenges. If I can help them through that, I’ll do it.”
Young talent shining
Hunter also praised the seamless integration of the club’s emerging talent, including Claire Corbett, Willa Pearson and Rubi Sullivan, who continue to gain valuable experience.
“Sometimes I forget how young they are,” Hunter said.
“They’re mature, they fit into the group so well and Claire in particular is such a joy to watch on the ball.”
“To get this experience so young, and to be playing under Ante, will be something they really appreciate when they look back.”
Home comforts at Leichhardt
After nearly seven weeks on the road, the Sky Blues are relishing a return to Leichhardt Oval.
“We’re so excited to be back,” Hunter said.
“Sleeping in your own bed and playing at Leichhardt with our fans — it’s such a fun place with a great atmosphere.”
Searching for goals
With recent matches producing few goals, Hunter confirmed the team has been experimenting with new approaches in attack.
“We’ve changed a few things — personnel and tactics,” she said.
“We’re not going to keep doing the same things if we’re not getting results.”
“Skye looked really good last weekend and she’s been scoring plenty at training, so hopefully she can bring that into the game.”
Belief remains strong
Despite sitting lower on the ladder, Hunter insists belief within the squad has not wavered.
“There’s always belief,” she said.
“We’re young, we’re early in this journey together and we’re laying good foundations.”
“I don’t think we’re anywhere near our peak yet. With successful teams, it takes time — it doesn’t all click in the first few weeks.”
Sydney FC Women host Adelaide United at Leichhardt Oval on Friday night as they look to turn strong performances into points and goals in the second half of the season.
Match Details
Sydney FC v Adelaide United
Ninja A-League Round 12
Friday 9th January 2026
Leichhardt Oval, Leichhardt, NSW
Kick Off: 7:00pm AEDT
Gates Open: 6:00pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Streaming
Tickets: Click Here
