Beware the hungry Roar!
That is head coach Heather Garriock’s message to Canberra United this week, as the side look to continue their winning ways.
Despite Brisbane struggling to kick-start their season, Garriock said United cannot take the Roar for granted and the side need to vastly improve if they want to grab all three points.
“While we got the three points last week, I wasn’t happy with the performance,” Garriock said. “I think we were poor defensively and we need to critique a few things.
“When we did our player review, the majority of the group said they personally underperformed in the last game.”
On the other end of the pitch, Garriock believes United’s forward line is as potent as ever, with Elise Thorsnes, Katie Stengel, Simone Charley and Ashlie Crofts all finding the back of the net over the past fortnight.
“Elise is outstanding and her character, commitment and power that she shows on the ball is outstanding,” Garriock said.
“I was pleased that she scored the winner last weekend, something which I have seen her do so many times in the past.
“Then we have Ashlie, who is a diamond in the rough. She is a prolific goalscorer and in terms of women’s football, there is none of her kind around.
“To come in and perform the way she did under pressure, I was so proud of her.”
United are coming into this clash just five days after their physical clash against the Jets, while in comparison, Brisbane are looking to bounce back from their 3-1 loss to the Wanderers last Thursday night.
Despite the short turnaround, Garriock believes it will actually benefit her team.
“I think it will be great to have a short turnaround to play Brisbane,” she said. “Brisbane are exceptional especially given some of the individual flair they have.
“Going into tonight’s game, I think our defence is vitally important, especially with the quality they have upfront and their experienced midfield.
“They are speedy upfront, and then they have one of the best number 10s in the nation, Tameka Yallop. We need to watch out for her third-man runs.
“We need to be at our best.”
Match details | Canberra United v Brisbane Roar
Kick off 7:30pm Thursday 5 November @ McKellar Park
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For the second year in a row, Canberra United is partnering with ActewAGL and The Salvation Army to spread Christmas cheer this festive season.
As such, tonight’s match will see a giving tree displayed at McKellar Park where supporters can donate unwrapped gifts to help families in need this Christmas.