Stalwart Melbourne Victory midfielder Amy Jackson led the way on the weekend netting her maiden Westfield W-League hat-trick in an imposing 4-0 win over Adelaide United.
The Melbourne-born Jackson has fitted back into the side seamlessly after missing last year’s championship campaign, providing aid work in Fiji as well as a period living and playing in the Netherlands.
The Victory have bounced back impressively from a rocky start to their title defence, and are now lurking ominously just below leading duo, Perth Glory and Sydney FC.
The 27-year-old Jackson talks through her new-found status as a goalscorer, the increasing confidence at the Victory and the upcoming International Women’s Club Championship.
You’re perhaps not renowned as a goalscorer but it seems like it all fell into place for you in front of goal on the weekend?
It’s not so often I score, so to score three in one game was quite interesting. But I feel a little bad because I think Christine Nairn’s potential goal of the year is getting overlooked because of my hat-trick.
Is goalscoring something you have thought about adding to your game?
I have taken on a more attacking role over the last few years. Also running off the ball and getting into spaces is something I think I have added to my game of late.
Do you feel like you have improved your game in recent years?
Yes I think I have. Coming back to Melbourne I’m really refreshed. And playing with such quality players is really getting the best out of me.
Has your life experiences over the last year or two added to your game in any way?
My life is an adventure! So whatever I do I’m going to enjoy. Playing in different environments has really helped me piece together elements of my game that I can replicate here in Australia. It is very technical in the Netherlands, so in that respect I think have improved.
You were away last season and missed Melbourne Victory’s championship breakthrough. What differences have you noticed now compared to two years ago?
I think we have created a challenging and enjoyable environment at the Victory. Every training session we are pushing each other and getting better as a result. We are quite united group, and all working on the same goal which is to retain the championship and also get results at the International Club Championship (in Japan later this month).
Is there a buzz around the team for Japan or is that on the back-burner for now?
We are focussed on results. We want to win and we are focussed on going to Japan and doing that.
How has the team settled under new coach Joe Montemurro?
Very good. Joe is challenging us all in different ways. That is really helping us unite and reach a higher level.
On a lighter note now, who is the coolest team-mate at the Victory?
A few I would say. I would go with Ella Mastrantonio, Alex Gummer and Maika Ruyter-Hooley.
What about the toughest team-mate?
Hmm, that is a tough question. But I would go with Brianna Davey.
And what will you spend your Westfield Player of the Match voucher on?
I will give some to Christine Nairn for her first Victory goal so she can remember the occasion. And for me a new watch I think.
