The New Balance NPL WA Women’s season is barely past the halfway mark, but this Saturday’s meeting between Balcatta Etna and Perth Azzurri already carries plenty of significance.
Azzurri are setting the pace. Unbeaten after 11 matches and with just two goals conceded, the reigning champions have established a handy five-point buffer.
Leading the chasing pack are Balcatta. Peter Rakic’s side moved into second place last week with a gritty 1-0 win at Fremantle City and now have their sights on his previous club.
“It’s a massive game, with us currently sitting in second and Perth being first and who haven’t lost yet,” Rakic said.
“I’ve said to the girls, if they want to be considered as title contenders this year, every single game is a cup final.”
The sides’ first meeting this season in Round Five ended goalless, reflecting the close nature of many of the games between the top teams in the division.
However, Azzurri and Balcatta are the joint-leading scorers in the competition. Azzurri’s Jess Flannery and Caitlin Doeglas of Balcatta head to Golden Boot race with eight gaols, one more than Etna skipper Abbey Meakins.
Former Perth Glory A-League forward Doeglas moved back to Balcatta in the summer following a trophy-laden spell with Perth RedStar.
“I’m really enjoying being back. was here as a junior playing in the NPL Boys, and it’s been great to be back.
“This is probably going to be one of the biggest games of the season for us. It has to be a win for us to close the gap.”
This is a sentiment supported by vice-captain Gale, who is viewing it as a “must win” fixture.
“We know facing Perth, they’re always going to bring their best against us and we have to do the same if we want to walk away with three points.
“We’re really looking forward to it. The girls are really excited and this is the reason we play football.”
Last year’s title win was Azzurri’s first in the NPL era, while Balcatta are still waiting. For head coach Rakic it is a burning ambition.
“It’s something I as a coach have strived for over the last five or so years after being lucky enough to win the inaugural one with Murdoch,” he said.
“To lead a squad so strong that I think are deserving of that kind of accolade, it would be huge for the girls and the club.
“We’ve challenged in Top Four, we’ve challenged in finals, we’ve brought home different pieces of silverware, but yet to bring home the league, so that is the ultimate goal and we’ll see what happens.”
Saturday’s Round 12 game at Home Group Stadium kicks off at 3pm and is one of five games including the New Balance NPL WA Men’s fixture at 5pm. Both games will be streamed live and free on Streamer.com.au
