Western United are channelling an “underdog mentality” in pursuit of Liberty A-League success after capping their inaugural match with a stunning 1-0 win over two-time defending champions Melbourne Victory.
The new girls on the block in the A-League Women, Western took to City Vista Recreation Reserve for their first-ever match against the titleholders on Saturday afternoon after entering the competition this season.
Western stepped up to the challenge on a landmark day, with FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning striker Jessica McDonald settling the blockbuster contest in front of a strong crowd in Round 1.
“It’s obviously an amazing accomplishment,” McDonald told Dub Zone afterwards.
“First game of the season, coming off a win at home, it honestly doesn’t get any better than that.
“Hopefully we can keep this momentum going into the season.
McDonald added: “I know for sure one thing is we want to be a very hard to beat this season. That’s something we’re going to pride ourselves on.
And obviously we’re going to run with this whole underdog mentality. Those are the two key pieces that’s going to help us succeed this season.
“Teams aren’t going to know what to expect from us. So that’s something we can take advantage of.”
Back in Australia following a stint with Victory in 2012, McDonald was the hero against her former club in Melbourne’s west.
The 34-year-old broke the deadlock nine minutes into the second half and Western did not look back as Matildas star Chloe Logarzo came off the bench to make her debut for the club.
“One thing I absolutely love about what I do for a living is being under pressure. I know this is a knew club, they’re fresh and really young,” McDonald, who is on loan, said.
“I love the pressure and I love to bring my experience out here with Western Unite. Honestly it was just another great chance to play in the A-Leagues again.
“In all honesty, it’s a relief to be down here, continuing to have fun doing what I do. Falling in love with the game again, being an older and experienced player.
“It’s an honour and I’m just happy another club in Australia took their chance on me again.”
