Adelaide United Women goalkeeper, Sarah Willacy, says she is thrilled to have been included in the Westfield Matildas’ 21-player squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Chile.
The Matildas face the South American outfit on Saturday, 9 November in Parramatta before travelling to Adelaide to play the same opponent three days later on Tuesday, 12 November.
Willacy, who is one of three ‘keepers included in the squad, said being selected in the National Team for the first time in her career was surreal.
“It’s very special,” she said.
“I didn’t really expect it to be honest but I’m really excited to get into camp and show them what I’ve got.”
The 24-year-old has established herself as one of the Westfield W-League’s top ‘keepers since nailing down the number one spot at the Club during the 2017/18 campaign.
Last season Willacy kept four clean sheets and recorded a save success rate of 73% as she featured in all 12 matches.
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Willacy believed her solid performances for the Reds over the last two years contributed in her call-up and was quick to praise Head Coach, Ivan Karlović, for helping her improve.
“It’s definitely played a part in me finally getting my opportunity,” she admitted.
“Also Ivan has played a huge part in pushing me to continue on and improving.”
Willacy, who spent the off-season with West Adelaide in the local Women’s National Premier League, revealed it was always an objective to reach the Australia set-up and represent her country.
“It was always a goal I’ve had from when I was younger,” she stated.
“And it was definitely a goal over the past few W-League seasons to keep improving and playing well in the W-League and then hopefully I got my opportunity and it finally came.”
She said the prospect of making her international debut at Coopers Stadium – if it were to happen – would be incredible, especially being from Adelaide.
“That would be extremely special,” she said.
“Obviously having friends and family there to watch and if I debuted in front of my hometown that would be amazing.”
