Melbourne Victory striker Maja Markovski faces the hardest task in the A-League Women on Wednesday night — scoring against Sydney FC.
Unbeaten Liberty A-League leaders Sky Blues travel to Melbourne for a rematch of last year’s Grand Final, having scored 29 goals in 10 games.
Sydney goalkeeper Jada Whyman holds the record for A-League Women consecutive clean sheets with nine — having not conceded a goal since the opening day of the season.
But Markovski says the champions, who put five past Western Sydney Wanderers over the weekend, are not overawed by facing Ante Juric’s side.
“We’re really up for the challenge,” the 20-year-old said on Tuesday.
“I think we have to remain patient and take our chances. We just need to keep our heads, be confident and it’ll come.
“I definitely see it (their clean sheets) as a challenge and I know we’ve got the ability up front and around me so the girls will be excited for that.
“They’re really disciplined in the back and their midfield has been quality. Their front three is super dangerous too.
“Whatever team, we are up for the challenge; it doesn’t really faze us.”
After a mid-season blip in which they lost to Brisbane Roar after suffering a 5-1 hammering in the derby against Melbourne City, Victory have turned their fortunes around.
Jeff Hopkins’ side have won four on the bounce with Markovski’s ability to lead the line key to their recent form.
“It’s good to be a part of the success of the team,” she said. “We’ve hit some great form and I’m grateful to be a part of it.
“He (Hopkins) sees me working hard and he gave me that first opportunity and now I think he’s starting to believe (in) me.
“I’m definitely getting stronger and more physical.
“I think each week we’ve built really well and improved on areas where there were question marks.”
