Reigning W-League Champions Sydney FC defeated Arrive Alive Women’s Premier League Premiers Illawarra Stingrays 4-0 in a trial match in Wollongong on Monday evening.
Reigning W-League Champions Sydney FC defeated Arrive Alive Women-s Premier League Premiers Illawarra Stingrays 4-0 in a trial match in Wollongong on Monday evening.
The Sky Blue girls were quickly off the mark, scoring three goals in the opening thirty minutes of play. The Stingrays then consolidated before conceding a fourth goal in the 10th minute of the second half.
Asian Cup hero Kyah Simon bagged two goals whilst her Matildas team mate Leena Khamis also got on the scoresheet. Former Central Coast Mariners star Renee Rollason was the other Sydney FC goalscorer.
The Stingrays, touted as a possible W-League alternative for the ill fated Central Coast Mariners side recently, put in a credible performance.
Illawarra Coach Brett Wallin was pleased with his side-s effort, commenting that he thought the scoreline flattered Sydney FC. “We made a couple of errors that we probably would have got away with in our own competition but Sydney FC punished us,” said Wallin.
The Stingrays mentor added that, with a few additions, he felt that his side would be competitive in offered the opportunity to play in the W-League.
Sydney FC Coach Alen Stajcic was happy with his side-s hit out. “This was a good game for us” said Stajcic. “It-s hard to find teams that can compete with us as we build towards our season but Illawarra certainly have a competitive squad” stated the Sydney FC mentor.
When asked if Illawarra Stingrays could compete at W-League level Stajcic said “They are not far away. With a couple of experienced players they could do well.”
Sydney FC and The Stingrays will meet again on 9th October as the Sky Blues prepare for their season opener against Brisbane Roar at Ballymore Stadium on 6th November.
