Manly Vale, according to Mosman women’s Premier League coach, Josh Ayscough, is one of the top sides in the league. Physical, attacking, direct, they have myriad methods to score and fit, aggressive midfield and defence.
But Ayscough still thinks Mosman will win this weekend’s MWFA match-of-the-round. Because, among other reasons, a desire for revenge.
“Manly Vale is one of the top sides in the league,” Ayscough said ahead of Sunday’s round 10 fixture at Allan Border Oval. “They are physical and very dangerous in wide areas either driving in at goal or crossing.
“I think we’ll win by winning the midfield battle. We didn’t have our combinations setup last time we played. But the girls have really clicked recently and are very capable having shots on goal.
“We’re expecting a very hard match and we’re hoping to get some revenge for the [2-0] round one loss.”
While Mosman welcomes back midfielders Phoebe Pincus and Lauren Stein, Ayscough admitted that Sarah Carr is a big out for his team. “She has been great in the midfield, very creative and helps us press in defence, we will miss her energy and flare.
“On the plus side Phoebe and Lauren are back and will bring a great work-rate to the team and quality of play to set up our forwards. They’ll really help us when it gets into those critical final stages.
“And our defenders have been training really well. It comes from being challenged by strikers growing in confidence. Centre-backs Clodagh Hill and Cait le Bas have been really strong in the training pitch,” Ayscough said.
After an ordinary start to the year Mosman appears to have hit their stride, winning their last three and sitting in fifth position – four points behind Manly Vale. Ayscough said his team has “training to be more in control whether that’s with the ball or without”.
“We want to organise quicker to give ourselves more options and hopefully create more opportunities. We’ve let ourselves down by not controlling the game or tempo. And if we can get over that hurdle I think we’re in for a good second half of the year,” Ayscough said.
In other games BTH Raiders take on Wakehurst, Seaforth host Brookvale and high-flying Manly Allambie do battle with Pittwater RSL at Millers Reserve. Beacon Hill shall enjoy the bye.
