The Westfield W-League gets under way this weekend and it would be great to see Perth fans come out and make a statement, as Perth Glory Women take on Melbourne Victory at Intiga Stadium, the home of Inglewood United.
At the end of last season Perth Glory owner Tony Sage stated that he was no longer going to give the women’s team financial support. Their future looked to be on very shaky ground, and many of the players wondered if they would have to head East to fulfil their ambitions.
Football West CEO Peter Hugg however managed to save the day and found funding to keep the Perth Glory Women’s team alive. Not only that but QBE came to the party sponsoring the team on the front of their shirts and making a significant contribution to keeping the team alive.
The team has several current Matildas, Kate Gill back froma knee injury, Aivi Luik who has joined from Brisbane Roar, and the returning Collette McCallum who will captain the side after taking a year off last year. In addition Not The Footy Show hears that Lisa de Vanna will be added to the squad after the third round.
As well as these current Matildas there are Ella Mastrantonio and Marianna Tabain who are looking to re-establish themselves in the Matildas set up. The club has also managed to attract three imports from overseas, England and Chelsea Goalkeeper Carly Telford, Canada defender Sasha Andrews and New Zealand international Liz Milne who can play anywhere in defence.
The team looks to be the best yet for Perth Glory and one that could challenge come finals time, but a good start to the season is vital. It would be great if the public turned out in numbers on Sunday to not only show their support for the team, but to acknowledge those who have worked so hard to keep a W-League team in Perth
