Western Sydney coach Catherine Cannuli is confident her players are mentally and physically ready for Saturday’s A-League Women derby against Sydney FC despite their nervy display last week.
The Wanderers were held to a 0-0 draw in their season opener against a Wellington Phoenix starting outfit featuring eight 18-year-olds.
In contrast, Sydney flexed their attacking muscle in a 3-1 demolition of the Newcastle Jets.
The Sky Blues attacking trio of Remy Siemsen, Cortnee Vine and Princess Ibini all got on the scoresheet, and they loom as the danger players again on Saturday night.
The Wanderers struggled for fluency against Wellington last week, but Cannuli is expecting a better performance in round two.
“The girls were quite nervous leading into that game,” Cannuli said.
“I didn’t think they really settled into the game at all across the 90 minutes, but the positives we can take out of that game is we came home with one point and a clean sheet, which is fantastic for us.
“I think the girls are super prepared. They’re mentally and physically ready for this weekend.”
Sydney well and truly have the edge over the Wanderers in ALW head-to-head battles, winning 15 of the 18 matches.
Cannuli will be hoping her team can buck the trend this Saturday.
“What a game to go into in round two,” Cannuli said.
“Playing out at CommBank Stadium, we’re back at home, and playing in the derby.
“Coming home is always great. We always want to be playing in front of our fans.
“The girls are definitely up for it and looking forward to the challenge.”
