Adelaide United Women Head Coach, Huss Skenderovic, and Captain, Stella Rigon, are anticipating an exciting match against Melbourne Victory Women, kicking off their Westfield W-League 2016/17 season at Coopers Stadium on Sunday.
As the Adelaide United Women confront their first match of the Westfield W-League, Head Coach Huss Skenderovic says confidence is high amongst the group of players, expecting an exciting lead into their season.
“We are heading towards round one, and the girls are excited to be a part of this competition, especially with the buzz around the W-League recently, which has been fantastic,” Skenderovic said.
“It has given us the opportunity to move into round one with that excitement, and the match being televised which is also great for the women’s game.
“We are confident in our own ability, and the way that we want to play football will be entertaining for us, and the fans, as the girls have enjoyed it so far.
“We are ready to go and we’re looking forward to a great battle against Melbourne Victory Women.”
Captain, Stella Rigon, is also assured that the Adelaide United Women are full of confidence and the traditional rivalry between the Reds and Melbourne Victory will be no different with the women come game time.
“The vibe surrounding the team is indescribable, we have a great group of players, compliments to the Coach in choosing this team, as we have a lot of great local talent as well as foreign experience, making me happy that I decided to come to Adelaide United Women.
“There is no better way to start the season off with a traditional rivalry between Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory and it will be a great contest.
“From memory, in the state league, there has always been a fierce rivalry with Melbourne, and that makes it more enjoyable and the competition that will be out there will definitely be on another level.”
On being awarded with Captaincy, Rigon was surprised, but honoured to be able to lead the Adelaide United Women, brushing off any nerves that may hinder their performance.
“I was surprised when Huss had the talk with me about being Captain, but I am very honoured to lead this team, it is an absolute privilege and I am proud to be wearing the Adelaide United colours.
“There will always be nerves before a match, and personally, nerves always make me play better and everyone is hungry, we want to win and play for top four, not settling for anything less.”
Skenderovic is positive in his ability to bring out the best in the Adelaide United Women, and noted the commendable characteristics within the squad are undeniable.
“I have gotten to know the girls’ strengths and weaknesses and I’ve always reiterated the message in regards to characters, hence my decision to choose Stella for Captain as it is about character, maturity and leadership.
“The whole team ticks all those boxes, and championships are won in dressing rooms, due to the spirit that is inside there.
“The girls are looking forward to playing at Coopers Stadium, we had a training session there so the team were able to get a feel of it and the surroundings, making the transition a lot easier for the game tomorrow.”
Adelaide United host Melbourne Victory in Round 1 of the Westfield W-League 2016/17 season on Sunday, 6 November at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 2.00pm ACDT.
