Tara Murray
Western United made a winning start to life in the A-League Women’s competition, knocking off reigning premiers Melbourne Victory in a round one upset.
United fans packed City Vista Reserve in Caroline Springs on Saturday afternoon, as they got their first look at the United side.
Fans would have been happy with what they saw, with United coming away with a 1-0 win after Jess McDonald scored in the second half.
United coach Mark Torcaso said they were thrilled to finally get out on the park. The lead up to the match wasn’t without drama, with a couple of players in doubt pre-game as they waited for clearances to come through.
“It was really good,” he said. “It was great to have all the people here supporting, we probably would have had a few more if the weather was better.
“It’s a statement, but again it’s the first game, just take each game and week at a time.”
While the rain held off throughout the game, the wind made conditions difficult as it favoured one end.
Torcaso said the wind meant the match was made even and the side which adjusted better would be the one to come away with the win.
“I thought we did extremely well in the first half going into the wind and the girls had a lot of faith,” he said.
“In the second half… I think it was then just a matter of us scoring, we probably should have had another one or two in the end.”
Both sides had their chances in the first half but neither were able to convert. McDonald scored in the 54th minute after a free kick got the ball into the box and McDonald bounced after another shot was smothered first.
Torcaso said the attack linked up really well in their first official hit out.
“Hannah [Keane], Jess, even Kahli [Johnson] they’ve been fantastic and the depth that we’ve got, depth in our squad.
“Aleks Sinclair was able to come on and have an impact as well.”
One of the biggest cheers of the day was for Sinclair when she came on in the second half. After a successful National Premier League career, Sinclair made her A-League debut at the age of 34.
For Torcaso, who has been her NPLW coach at Calder United, it was pretty special.
“I probably had a little bit of a tear when she come over and hugged me and said we’re here,” he said.
“It’s an amazing opportunity for Aleks. It’s just great for Aleks and it’s also good, she’s a western girl and a local girl.”
Sinclair was one of a number of players who stepped up from NPLW level and looked right at home.
Torcaso said it was exciting to see them show that they can play at this level.
Matildas’ star Chloe Logarzo Come off of the bench for United having joined the program late due to Matildas commitments, had an instant impact as did American Sydney Cummings, who controlled the back half.
United will be on the road this week, facing the Wellington Phoenix on Saturday.
