After finishing in 3rd place in 2023, NWS Spirit will be itching to go one better and push their rivals for a spot at the top.
Spirit will hope for greater stability in their defence this season, having conceded 35 goals across 2023. There was no trouble delivering at the other end of the pitch however, with Spirit ranked 3rd in the league for goals scored after notching a total of 49.
Spirit’s attack was boosted by the signing of 2022 NPL NSW Women’s player of the year Rola Badawiya last season, whilst striker Sophie Harding’s recent call-up to the Matildas squad more than exemplifies the flair available to the North Sydney based side up front.
Last year’s head coach, Tiana Gauci, moved on at the end of last season to join up with Perth Glory’s A-League Women’s side as an assistant. Gauci would be replaced by former Marconi First Grade Men’s coach and Blacktown City coach Tony Candy, a suitable choice who already had six years at the Spirit under his belt.
A full pre-season under the helm of new coach Candy, after a successful year with Gauci, leaves the side best-placed to improve on a strong 3rd place finish and to close the gap on APIA Leichardt and Macarthur Rams.
Returning stars Nat Tobin, along with Erin Pridmore and Morgan Roberts – who finished as the club’s top goal scorer for the 2023 season – will also hold the Spirit in good stead.
By Matthew Badrov, Football NSW
