Mackenzie Hawkesby has explained that she and Sydney FC are ready to face Melbourne City in this Saturday afternoon’s Grand Final after one of their most testing seasons (4:15pm).
The midfielder reflected on her campaign playing for the Sky Blues, discussing how she has
been able to find her feet and overcome adversity along with the side to get where they are.
With Sydney FC gunning for their second consecutive Championship this Saturday,
Hawkesby said that the Sky Blues will not hold back:
“It’s unbelievable. After everything we faced this season, getting to another Grand Final is
really rewarding.
“It’s not about how pretty you play; it’s about how much you want it… [and] the willingness
and want to win is incredible.
“I know how much I want it, and this team wants it, so that’s what I’m hoping will get us over
the edge [against City].”
Mackenzie Hawkesby also reflected on this season, where she has contributed to eight goals, scoring five, since returning from Brighton in December.
After her English spell, the 24-year-old came back to Sydney, where she met familiar faces
such as Nat Tobin, Cortnee Vine, and Ante Juric once again.
However, with Nat Tobin out due to her ruptured ACL and other players leaving after the
2022/2023 season, the side had almost transformed, and Hawkesby had her work cut out for
her.
“Coming back, I knew I had to find my feet. It took me a few games, but I knew my level and
where I wanted to get to.
“I’m really happy and feel that I’m in a good space with some form leading into another
Grand Final; it’s the best.
“Playing without Nat is different and it was difficult for me coming back because I looked up
to her on the field when things weren’t going the greatest.
“She’s my best mate, but what she’s done at Sydney FC for the past 2-3 years, being a role
model, captain and leader has got us to so many Premierships and Grand Finals,” she said.
As Hawkesby will play her fifth Grand Final with the side, she explained how her role has
transformed from returning to a senior figure.
The midfielder provided insight into what being a senior player is like. She had worn the
captain’s armband multiple times, including in the first-leg Semi-Final when Princess Ibini
was substituted.
“I spoke to Margaux and Shay before the Semi Final and reassured them how well they are
doing. As an older player, you’ve got to guide them.
“I also spoke to Indy [Dos Santos] before the game and she told me she was really excited
and a bit nervous, and she just performed.
“One thing I’m proud about of this team is that when we face adversity, we have risen to the
occasion,” she explained.
Hawkesby recounted the moment she scored what was Sydney FC’s decisive goal in the
second leg in front of a booming Leichhardt Oval crowd, saying:
“When I scored, I actually couldn’t hear. The noise was up there with the Grand Final-level
atmosphere.
“It’s unbelievable how far it’s come.
“For us at Sydney FC, the fans we get at Leichhardt Oval have been crazy.”
Match Details:
Melbourne City v Sydney FC
A-League Women Grand Final
Saturday 4th May, 2024
AAMI Park, Melbourne, VIC
Kick Off: 4:15PM
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ and 10BOLD
Tickets: Click Here
