Central Coast Mariners take on Melbourne City at City Football Academy Melbourne – ctrl:cyber Campus, 4pm kick off on Saturday.
It’s the second trip to Victoria in just over a week for Husband’s side, who played out a 0-0 draw with Western United last Friday, a solid point to add to a fantastic opening day victory over Sydney FC.
🔎 Melbourne City
The reigning Premiers are heavily fancied for top spot again this season and they are living up to expectations so far, with two wins from two and eight goals scored in the Ninja A-League as well as three wins from three in the AFC Women’s Club Championship in October.
Michael Matricciani’s side have had to come from behind in both A-League victories, trailing 2-0 to Perth before a clinical second half saw them run out 5-2 winners in Round One. Last weekend, they came from 2-1 down at half time to win 3-2 against their Melbourne rivals Victory.
Mariana Speckmaier is the one to watch for City, she has been in blistering form, including a double in last week’s derby win which made it five goals in five games for the Venezuelan international since joining from Wellington Phoenix.
The Mariners did a good job of keeping her quiet in two victories against her Wellington side last season, and will have to do so again this weekend against City, whilst also keeping tabs on the likes of Rhianna Pollicina, Lourdes Bosch and Kathryn Harvey.
Tasked with marshalling the Mariners defence against City’s free-scoring attack is Jess Nash, whose impressive early season form earned her a recall to the Matildas this week, alongside Izzy Gomez who received a special first senior call-up.
Nash and the team will be looking to build on a clean sheet last time out. Speaking to the media this week, the young defender said the Mariners can beat anybody in their way if we perform to our best:
🗣 Emily Husband: “I want the girls to be brave”
Husband also spoke to the media, explaining the areas her team needs to be better despite a strong start to the season, and what she expects from a strong Melbourne City side on Saturday.
Watch Emily’s full press conference now via the Central Coast Mariners YouTube channel.
Watch Live! 📺
Watch live via 10Play and Paramount+ with build up and live coverage also available via Official Central Coast Mariners social media channels!
