Fresh off creating history in the AFC Women’s Champions League at the weekend, Melbourne City returns to Ninja A-League action on Wednesday night.
Mariana Speckmaier and Holly McNamara both found the back of the net as City secured a spot in the AWCL Semi Finals, and now the focus shifts to an important midweek clash against Brisbane.
It marks the first of two away fixtures in a busy week for Michael Matricciani’s squad, with a trip to Wellington following immediately after.
With just four games remaining, the race for the Premiers Plate remains incredibly tight, with City holding a narrow two-point lead over Melbourne Victory at the top of the table.
Every point will be crucial in the final fixtures, and maximum points from this two-game road trip would go a long way in strengthening our silverware hopes.
Following the fixtures against Brisbane and Wellington, City will return home for a matchup against Newcastle before finishing the season with a final away trip to Perth.
Matricciani has now confirmed his extended squad for the trip north, keeping a consistent group together. Young attackers Emilia Murray and Caitlin Karic have both been promoted, adding to City’s attacking depth.
There are no omissions from our most recent league squad that won 4-3 at home against Adelaide United.
Round 18 ALW Squad
5. Taylor OTTO, 6. Leticia McKENNA, 8. Alexia APOSTOLAKIS, 9. Holly McNAMARA, 10. Rhianna POLLICINA, 11. Emilia MURRAY, 12. Shelby McMAHON, 13. Rebekah STOTT (C), 14. Laura HUGHES, 16. Karly ROESTBAKKEN, 17. Mariana SPECKMAIER, 18. Leah DAVIDSON, 19. Lourdes BOSCH, 20. Caitlin KARIC, 22. Bryleeh HENRY, 23. Melissa BARBIERI (GK), 24. Malena MIERES (GK), 27. Tyla-Jay VLAJNIC.
In: 11. Emilia MURRAY, 20. Caitlin KARIC (both promoted).
Out: Nil.
Unavailable: Nil.
