The Western Sydney Wanderers are gearing up for another high-stakes Ninja A-League clash at CommBank Stadium this Friday night, welcoming the Newcastle Jets for a match that promises intensity, pace, and competitive drama.
Coming off a narrow 1-0 defeat to Adelaide United, the Red & Black are eager to turn the page and respond in front of their home crowd.
Last weekend’s match may not have gone the Wanderers’ way, but the performance highlighted the squad’s determination and resilience.
From crucial goal-line clearances by Poppie Hooks to near misses from Milly Bennett and Allyssa Ng-Saad, the team showed fight and a refusal to give up – even against a strong Adelaide side.
For head coach Geoff Abrahams, those moments exemplify the ethos he’s building within the squad.
“You know, it’s disappointing to end the winning streak,” Abrahams said.
“But I think everyone should be proud of the resilience and fight we showed. The players are showing a lot of pride in the jersey at the moment, leaving it in a better place and creating a legacy for our Academy girls.
“It wasn’t our best in possession, but it was still a performance we can be proud of.”
Despite the loss, the Wanderers remain in touch with the top of the table, and Abrahams stresses that their focus is on improving their process rather than dwelling on results.
By concentrating on small blocks of play and controlling the elements they can influence, the coach believes the team will position themselves to earn points and climb the ladder.
“I’m a pretty process-driven coach,” he said.
“To win games, you need to do the things that make us great – ten-minute blocks, focus on every part of the game. Points and wins are the byproduct of doing that day in, day out.”
The Newcastle Jets arrive in Sydney after a close 2-1 loss to Melbourne Victory, a result that showcased their attacking threats and resilience on the road.
Abrahams knows Friday night will be a challenge, but believes his team can impose their own game and make the most of their home advantage.
“The double header is exciting, and we’re looking forward to it,” he said.
“Jets are a good team. The league is tight – any side can challenge on any day. For us, it’s about being better with the ball and focusing on our structure.”
Adding to the occasion, Friday’s fixture also celebrates Multicultural Round, an annual reminder of the diversity and community spirit that defines Western Sydney.
For Abrahams, the event aligns perfectly with the Wanderers’ values, reflecting the mix of cultures within his own squad.
“We have different cultures in this team, and celebrating that is important,” he said.
“Our area and our academy have so many backgrounds. There are 180 different languages spoken across Western Sydney. It’s amazing, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone come out and support the girls.”
With lessons learned from last week and a home crowd behind them, Abrahams is determined that the Wanderers will respond with the intensity, focus, and quality that has defined their season so far.
“We’ve got a talented group who are willing to fight for each other,” he said.
“Now it’s about bouncing back, showing our quality, and putting in a performance the fans can be proud of.”
