Marist set to launch W-league title quest

Marist’s quest for the W-league title they went within a whisker of winning last season is kicking off with a home clash this weekend.

The Palmerston North side had a strong season in 2020, but were denied the title on goal difference to Wellington United Diamonds.

That team promises to be strong again, but first up for Marist is Petone at Memorial Park today.

Marist have a squad of 15 this season, so won’t want to lose anyone through injury.

Captain and prolific goal-scorer Mikaela Boxall is back, after she netted 25 times in 14 games last year.

But the team has lost six players. Included among them are Georgie Furnell, who will miss the season after breaking her leg in a National Women’s League game in December; Kaitlyn Watts, who is playing squash; and Aniela Jensen, who last year formed a solid goal-scoring double act with Boxall.

Coach Barry Scullion said Jensen’s absence was a ‘‘massive loss’’.

But the squad is boosted by the return from Wairarapa of experienced duo, centre back Amber Phillips and midfield Gorgi van Lienen.

Back after injury is Aimee Atkins, while Charlotte Lancaster has benefited from the time she spent in New Zealand under-20 training camps.

‘‘We have a few young ones coming through as well.

‘‘Again, it’s a young squad with a mix of experience in it.

‘‘We have played strongly in the pre-season games, considering it’s half a new team and I haven’t had that long to work with them,’’ Scullion said.

In the Kelly Cup, Marist beat Wairarapa United and Waterside Karori, but lost in extra time to Wellington United Diamonds in the final.

Kickoff is at 12.30pm.