As the month nears to a close, we look at the stars trying to stake a claim for November’s NAB Young Footballer of the Month award.
Players such as Ellie Carpenter and Melina Ayres are back to their best, while Angelique Hristodoulou and Hollie Palmer are making some waves themselves.
Come with us as we reflect on some of the potential contenders to win the award for November!
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Ellie Carpenter – Canberra United
The reigning NAB Young Footballer of the Year is having another stellar season, picking up from where she left off in the Westfield W-League and National Women’s Soccer League.
Carpenter recently captained Canberra United while deputising for the injured Rachel Corsie, and you can see why: in her four appearances, Carpenter has an 80% pass completion rate, and has won 67% of her tackles.
The 18-year-old is into her fourth Westfield W-League campaign, and marauds up and down the touchline like few others.
Angelique Hristodoulou – Sydney FC
Angelique Hristodoulou is into her second season with Sydney FC, having spent her debut season across town at the Western Sydney Wanderers.
The 17-year-old has displayed some impressive form, typifying the Sky Blues’ attacking philosophy and stoic defensive foundations.
One may scarcely believe Hristodoulou is not even 18 years of age yet – she has won 83% of her tackles and 67% of her duels, suggesting she’s got the physical edge to thrive this season.
Emily Hodgson – Adelaide United
Much has been made about Adelaide United’s three consecutive clean sheets to start the 2018/19 Season.
Instrumental to this record has been Emily Hodgson. The 18-year-old has marshalled the right wing with an incredible display of athleticism and maturity, justifying her 180 minutes of playing time thus far.
Moreover, Hodgson’s 67% win rate in tackles shows she’s no slouch at doing her job, and will stake a good claim to be in contention for November’s NAB Young Footballer of the Month.
Hollie Palmer – Brisbane Roar
Brisbane Roar may have Katrina Gorry and Clare Polkinghorne in their spine, but one other handy addition is Hollie Palmer.
The 17-year-old midfielder has played alongside Gorry in the heart of the midfield, showing wisdom beyond her years with an impressive 74% passing completion rate, and averaging just over 33 passes per 90 minutes.
Palmer has also created four chances in three games, meaning the youngster is more than the real deal, and a sheer asset to Mel Andreatta’s side.
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Karly Roestbakken – Canberra United
Karly Roestbakken has had a whirlwind 2018, and she has taken it in her stride to kick off the Westfield W-League 2018/19 Season.
The Canberra United midfielder was instrumental in the Young Matildas’ run to the 2018 AFF Women’s Championship final, and equally important in Canberra’s quick start in the league.
With one assist and an average of 35 passes per 90 minutes, Roestbakken is showing potential that will put her in good stead for years to come.
Melina Ayres – Melbourne Victory
How could we compile this list without including Melina Ayres?
The Melbourne Victory winger made herself hard to ignore when she let fly from more than 25 metres out against Newcastle Jets in Round 2 of the Westfield W-League.
Apart from that strike, her performances in Rounds 1 and 3 have played a large part in Victory’s rise to the top of the ladder.
Four shots on target and a 72% pass completion rate is some showing for someone yet to hit 20-years-old. Let’s wait and see what the future holds.
