After three consecutive wins, Adelaide United Women will be out to make history against Melbourne Victory Women on Friday night at Marden Sports Complex.
Since the Westfield W-League’s inception, the Reds have never won four matches in a row, a milestone which could be broken against its fierce rivals.
This season alone has been Adelaide’s best start to a season from its opening four games and Charlotte Grant admitted the team is determined to continue its blistering form.
“We’re really happy with how we’re going,” the defender said, as the Reds currently lie in second spot on the ladder with nine points.
“It’s been great to get these wins so early on in the season.
“I think if we just continue to work hard and stay disciplined we can keep up the great results.”
Indeed, Adelaide will need to maintain this standard if it is to secure a top-four finish and maiden finals appearance.
United followed up back-to-back wins over Perth Glory Women with an impressive 2-1 triumph against Melbourne City Women last week at home.
Meanwhile, Victory come into the Round 6 clash having suffered a shock 6-0 rout against Brisbane Roar Women and occupy sixth place.
But despite the poor result, Grant insisted they cannot afford to take Jeff Hopkins’ side lightly – highlighting the league’s competitive balance this campaign.
“You can’t underestimate any team,” she said.
“I think the league is very equal this year and there’s a lot of very competitive teams.
“Melbourne Victory will definitely come out firing this week.
“We need to be aware of their lethal forward line, but I think if we stay disciplined in our defence and capitalise on our chances we can get the win.”
This season, perhaps more than ever before, has demonstrated the team’s togetherness and resilience under the guidance of first-year Head Coach, Adrian Stenta.
The core of the squad has largely remained intact since Ivan Karlovic’s appointment as boss in 2017 and began laying the foundations for his successor.
Karlovic assumed the role of Head of Women’s Football at the Club during the offseason with Stenta promoted to the top job.
Grant, who has been with the Reds since 2018, believed the team’s strong morale has been enhanced by simply winning.
“I think we’ve always had a great culture amongst the team,” the 19-year-old said.
“But getting the wins just gives us more confidence and belief in the group that we can achieve our goal of making finals.”
Next match details:
Game date: Friday, 29 January vs Melbourne Victory Women
Westfield W-League 2020/21 – Round 06
Kick-off 6.35pm ACDT
Gates open 5.35pm ACDT
Venue: Marden Sports Complex
Broadcast: FOX Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
