Dean Heffernan believes Western Sydney Wanderers are a match for any team in the world on their day but urged his side to ‘stay humble’ after his side’s historic 1-0 victory over China on Sunday.
The Wanderers spent their Round 8 bye weekend on a Gold Coast training camp, which culminated in the impressive friendly win over China, ranked No. 15 in the world.
Western Sydney had received invitation to play the East Asia giants, who are currently touring Australia ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic qualifiers in February.
Westfield Matilda Amy Harrison scored the decisive goal after a fine assist from Kristen Hamilton.
“Every time they walk on the pitch they should know they can compete having outplayed an international team,” Heffernan told the club’s official website.
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“But, we have to keep our head down, stay humble and keep working hard because that’s the minimum for us.
“As long as we work hard and play with energy and effort we know we can win against anyone.
“We didn’t ask for any feedback but we think they were surprised a little bit.
“They definitely expected to beat us. They didn’t and that is good for us.”
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Heffernan used the friendly to hand match minutes to some of the Wanderers’ squad players, such as young attacker Cortnee Vine and veteran defender Caitlin Cooper.
The full squad took part in the contest – although United States forward Lynn Williams was away on national team duties.
Sunday’s win is yet another milestone moment for the Wanderers, and one which solidifies the club’s status as Premiership favourites alongside three-time Champions Melbourne City.
The team’s Boxing Day thrashing of Canberra United last time out saw the Red and Black notch their first ever clean sheet away from home and backed up a record-breaking 5-0 derby win over Sydney FC.
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Western Sydney have amassed 16 goals from seven fixtures this season, a tally that already surpasses their total goals scored in the last five seasons.
It is surely only a matter of time before the club breaks their all-time season record of 19, set back in their inaugural 2012/13 campaign.
“There was already a lot of confidence and belief in this squad and in themselves. But for them to go out and do what they did against the team ranked 15th in the world there is going to be so much more belief now, so much more confidence,” Heffernan added.
The Wanderers host fifth-placed Brisbane Roar at Marconi Stadium on Sunday afternoon, kick off 4.00pm AEDT.
You can watch the match live and free on ABC – or click HERE to secure your spot at the fixture.
https://players.brightcove.net/5519514572001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6118237392001
Round 9
Western Sydney Wanderers v Brisbane Roar
Sunday, 12 January 2020
Kick-off: 4pm AEDT
Venue: Marconi Stadium
Broadcast: ABC TV, FOX Sports
Stream: MyFootball Live App, Kayo Sports, ABC iView
