Despite only being at the club for a few weeks, defender Elizabeth Anton is one of the most experienced players in the Canberra United squad for the 2024/25 Ninja A-League Women’s Season.
With over 60 A-League appearances under her belt, the commanding central defender also has appeared for the New Zealand national team eighteen times and was part of the squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Swapping the year-round warmth of Perth for the considerably cooler Canberra hasn’t been an issue for the New Zealand native, settling in well to her new surroundings and loving being that little bit closer to her family back home.
“My last couple of weeks in Perth were sunshine, so in coming here I was like oh it’s a bit cold, but it reminds me of home, so it’s been good,” said Anton.
“I’m settling in really well, living with another teammate Aideen [Keane], we’re really enjoying ourselves and just getting settled into training. It’s a lot better being on a similar time zone, being able to talk to my parents a bit more easily, it’s only a two-hour difference at the moment with daylight savings, so it’s nice.”
A commanding and composed central defender, Anton knows that her experience and leadership will be crucial in the defensive third for United and, having spent the last four seasons at Perth Glory, what convinced her to make the cross-country move was a conversation with Head Coach Antoni Jagarinec.
“Just having that first initial conversation with him, I felt like he was very genuine and wanted the best for the team. I think that’s always attractive in a coach, so I just got sold on that really,” Anton said.
“It’s a really good opportunity for me to take some strides in leadership. I’m mostly a defensive player and I think, given last season, that’s where we need to develop on. Hopefully I can bring a lot of experience and leadership to that.”
As anyone who has played in the A-League can tell you, Canberra is one of the toughest venues to play at. With the passionate and supportive fan base consistently creating an incredible atmosphere, it isn’t difficult to convince players to make the move, and Anton is no exception.
“When I was considering the move, that was a really big part of my decision,” she confirmed. “It’s such an exciting feeling to have such a great atmosphere and playing for your fans. I love that connection and having that drive you.”
