The Westfield W-League returns for a blockbuster Round 7 as a derby, a traditional rivalry and the fight for top four spots promise plenty of entertainment.
Here are four key battles which could influence the course of the weekend.
ELLIE BRUSH v LISA DE VANNA
De Vanna loves the grand stage and she’ll be aiming to make the Sydney Derby her own on Saturday evening.
The attacker showed she’s in scintillating touch with a breathtaking solo goal in the Sky Blues’ 2-0 win over Melbourne Victory last weekend.
It’s tough for anyone to stop her in that mood, but Wanderers defender Ellie Brush has the quality and big-game experience to put the clamps on her former international teammate.
NATASHA DOWIE v EMMA CHECKER
Melbourne Victory are tying Saturday’s clash with rivals Adelaide United into celebrations of their 10th Westfield W-League season, part of which will include the welcoming back of former greats.
Natasha Dowie, Victory’s captain and all-time top scorer, already sits comfortably alongside that group and will be eager to mark the occasion with a goal against the Reds.
The visitors have their own business to do in order to stay in touch with the top four and will look for captain Emma Checker – who is on the fringes of international selection – to shackle the experienced English centre-forward.
KYAH SIMON v TONI PRESSLEY
Kyah Simon was frustrated in her attempts to find the winner in the 1-1 draw with Adelaide United last time out as she saw her late penalty saved by Sarah Willacy.
The Melbourne City forward will be keen to make amends when Canberra United, two points ahead in third, travel to Victoria.
Standing in her way will be US import Toni Pressley, who is impressing in her first stint on loan in Australia.
The Orlando Pride defender is expected to make it tough for Simon and also presents a scoring danger at the other end.
KATRINA GORRY v EMILY VAN EGMOND
Gorry turned in arguably the performance of the round last weekend as she ran the show in Roar’s crucial 1-0 win away to Canberra United.
But it could be tougher back home in Brisbane when she comes up against Westfield Matildas teammate Emily van Egmond.
The metronome in Newcastle’s midfield, van Egmond will be hoping to help the Jets go level on points with their hosts by grabbing three points on Sunday.
It makes for a fascinating match-up between two of Australia’s classiest technicians.
