Jodie Taylor played a key role as reigning champions Sydney FC underlined their status as one of the Westfield W-League favourites on Sunday.
Jodie Taylor played a key role as reigning champions Sydney FC underlined their status as one of the Westfield W-League favourites on Sunday.
The English striker scored one goal and had a hand in several others as the Sky Blues secured a remarkable 8-2 win over Perth Glory that was built upon their relentless attacking game.
The Merseyside-born Taylor is one of the Westfield W-League-s favourite imported players having spent two productive years at Melbourne Victory, before linking up with Sydney FC this term.
After the current season Taylor will be bound for USA having earned a coveted NWSL contract with Washington Spirit, but for now Westfield W-League glory is the sole focus.
How did you enjoy the match and performance against the Glory?
Obviously pretty happy that we won 8-2 and also with the scoreline. We played some nice football but also made some stupid errors. The wind was really strong so the second half was quite a challenge, but our fitness showed in the end. The break was good for us, with the first half of the season quite tough with the Japan trip. So the week off has allowed us to re-energise and certainly we have started the second half of season well.
It looks like the Sky Blues have been practising a short-passing game at training based on some of the goals against the Glory?
I wouldn-t say it is something we have particularly been working on, at least no more so than earlier in the season. It just came off the other day. We play small-sided games and I guess we tend to look it for it naturally.
How is it playing in a team with so many attacking options?
It is good as it is very competitive. It is certainly a high level. It means we have a different style of play in attack and it really feels like we are getting it together now.
You also must enjoy coming to Australia in summer seeing as you keep coming back?
I absolutely love Australia and the lifestyle. And it is perfect timing for me and in terms of the seasons overseas.
How was the recent experience of playing at the Women-s Club World Championship in Japan?
The whole experience was awesome. We played some quality opposition. (Japan-s) Beleza were really good though we managed to beat them. Chelsea were really good too and we were unlucky against them. All in all it was a great experience especially the young ones. I think we did Australia proud.
Was it weird playing against English side Chelsea?
It was a little strange having obviously played against them before. I had also played with four of the players so that was also weird. It was a just great experience all round.
How does the new look English Super League compare with the Westfield W-League?
It is just different. The Aussie game is a bit more athletic and probably fitter, and the English players are very football orientated in terms of knowing the game.
Any national team aspirations?
I have been called up to the England squad next week for a camp but because of the schedule I won-t be able to attend. The last few years it never really happened for me for whatever reason. So I-m just trying to focus on playing and if anything else happens then great.
And on the lighter side, who is your funniest team-mate at Sydney FC?
Sam Kerr is in a league of her own.
Coolest team-mate?
Too many to name, but if I have to say one I better say Emma (Kete).
And uncoolest?
Oh, that would be me!
