The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL Women’s side travel to the Popondetta Park as they look to break a three-game winless run against the table topping Mount Druitt Town Rangers.
The Western Sydney Wanderers head to Popondetta Park on Sunday as they look to topple the table topping Mount Druitt Town Rangers in a bid to break a three game winless run.
The Red and Black are coming off a disappointing 3-0 loss to NWS Spirit, with a first-half hat-trick from Skye Halmarick proving decisive. Despite the scoreline, the Wanderers continued to show attacking intent, but their inability to convert chances ultimately ended hopes of a second-half comeback.
Meanwhile, Mount Druitt suffered their first defeat of the season in a shock 5-2 loss to the Newcastle Jets — arguably the upset of the season so far. Before that result, Mount Druitt had conceded just four goals in nine matches, recording five clean sheets as they took the competition by storm.
Although as we approach this time of the season, we begin to see squads evolve and players disperse among teams. Consequently, the Wanderers have had to welcome the likes of Olivia Vanderlaan, Alyssa McKenzie and Christie Oliva into the starting eleven.
The Key Decider: Leena Khamis
The former A-League Women’s and Matildas superstar had been on a five game goal scoring run prior to last week, the veteran has shown that age is not a barrier, as she has proven to be an issue for all defences.
Khamis will be looking to carry her recent form into the clash against her former side, where she spent two seasons. The striker boasts a distinctive style of play, combining sharp footwork with blistering pace to unsettle defences. The Wanderers will need to be on high alert, as Khamis has shown she only needs a handful of opportunities to punish any lapse at the back.
Chelsea Barton and her defence will need to be at their best to keep the former international quiet—otherwise, it could be a tough night for the Red and Black.
Rosie Galea has also hit a purple patch of form, scoring three goals in her last two appearances.
The Rangers, despite not being among the league’s highest scoring teams, are proficient in closing out a game regardless of how big their lead is.
That said, the Wanderers will want to strike early, as history shows that if Mount Druitt scores first, they’re likely to hold onto the lead and see the game out.
Expect a chess-like battle, where a single mistake could be the difference as both sides aim to bounce back from disappointing results.
NPL NSW Women’s Round 11
Mount Druitt Town Rangers v Western Sydney Wanderers
Sunday 18 May 2025, 5:00pm
Popondetta Park
