Galaxy on hunted list
Challenge for runner-up in expanded WNPL
GALAXY United can longer fly under the radar.
The Torquay-based WNPL club heads into its season opener against Heidelberg United at Banyul Warri tomorrow as one of the competition’s title challengers.
A place in last year’s grand final in their debut season turned expectations upside down for United and with that under their belts they have turned from the hunter to the hunted.
“I guess any of the two teams that make the grand final will always have a target no on their back,” coach Vince Ierardo said.
“The girls are realistic and we did finish (the home-andaway season) fourth and we only just scraped into the finals.
“In one sense we had a great run in the finals series to make the grand final, but the likes (of champion) Calder are the clear favourite and South Melbourne has come in and signed a great squad.
“There is going to be some fierce competition. So yes, we will have a target, but it’s not as realistic as everyone thinks.”
The addition of South Melbourne changes the complexion of the WNPL.
The powerhouse will be set up to make a finals push, just as Galaxy did in their first season.
In response, United has recruited well. They have nabbed American import Leigh Gray, who plundered 20 goals from 12 games last season.
She will add extra venom to an attack featuring Laura Spiranovic and Kariah White.
“(Gray) scored quite a number of goals for Heidelberg last season and she will be one of our visa players,” Ierardo said.
“Hopefully she will make an impact. She’s had a really good pre-season so far.
“We’ve also signed Coby McInerney, who is a Torquay local girl. She’s only 16 and she will get a good, extended run with the senior team.”
The expanded league means more games and Ierardo said he hoped that would bring more excitement to the competition.
“Hopefully the competition is at a higher standard and makes the girls better,” he said.
“We are really excited for that.”
Ierardo admitted Galaxy’s pre-season had suffered a stuttering start, with most of its playing list only just returning after W-League duties.
That includes goalkeeper Emily Kenshole, who was brought into Melbourne Victory’s squad as an injury replacement.
“We only had the squad together for the last week, week and a bit. That’s probably been the biggest challenge I have faced as a coach, to be honest,” he said.
“It will be interesting to see how it unfolds.”
Three points in the opening round against Heidelberg United would give Galaxy the best possible start for the season.
Ierardo was keen to keep expectations under a firm lid, but said there was the anticipation of finals action in 2017.
“Every team wants to make finals. We’ve got a squad that’s going to be competitive in the league,” he said.
“Hopefully, we will push for a finals spot. That’s got to be the target as a minimum for sure.
“We will tinker with the way we play a little bit, but the core will basically stay the same.”