South West Phoenix Firebirds face their biggest test of the season this week when they travel to Wanneroo City for a top-of-the-table clash.
The teams are currently locked on the same points but the Firebirds have a game in hand, giving them the upper hand.
However, the result of this week’s match will go a long way to deciding the destination of the title.
Firebirds’ scheduled match with Joondalup on Sunday never took place, with Joondalup forfeiting.
The Firebirds travelled to Perth to face Premier League side Northern Redbacks’ reserves in a friendly match.
The Redbacks currently lead the Reserves ladder and the match was ideal preparation for the clash with Wanneroo.
Firebirds put in one of their best performances of the year to win 5-2, with star striker Eleanor Coventry scoring a hat-trick and captain Lucy Scott and Nicole Suttie both getting on the scoresheet.
The central midfield pairing of Katie McDermott and Jen Hazledon helped the Firebirds enjoy some dominant spells – something they will look to do against Wanneroo this week.
Firebirds have already faced off with Wanneroo twice this season, winning 5-2 in round two and drawing 1-1 in Bunbury in round eight.
Indeed, the Firebirds have scored more than half the goals.
Wanneroo have conceded all season, with Coventry having scored four times in the two clashes.
At the back, Firebirds will look to Asha McClurg for strength and the recent good form of Kashia King.
The Firebirds will also have support from goalkeeper Dayle Schroeder, who was solid against Redbacks on Sunday.
A win for the Firebirds would put them three points clear, with a game in hand, and would make them clear favourites for the title.
A loss would see the title go down to the wire, and possibly even be decided by goal difference.
Coach Stephen Suttie said he was looking forward to the challenge.
“It’s a big game and that’s what our players want, our form in the last two matches has been exceptional,” he said.
“So, while I know it will be difficult, I am confident that we can get the win.”
In their latest state league – division one match, the South West Phoenix men’s side played out a 1-1 draw with the Dianella White Eagles.
The Phoenix line-up will be looking to get a win against Ashfield this coming weekend.
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