by Hibernians and Swieqi United will initiate the Assikura Women’s League season at the Centenary Stadium tonight at 20:15. Kenneth Costantino & Dorianne Theuma gave their insight on their pre-seasons, while hinting at debuts and a desire for a strong start to the season tonight.
Outlook Ahead Of New Season
Hibernians & Swieqi United are set to meet tonight in the first encounter of the Assikura Women’s League. Hibernians come into the fold having secured a third-place finish last year, following which they eliminated Swieqi United in the Assikura Women’s Knockout semi-final to achieve a runners-up finish to eventual winners, Birkirkara.
The Paolites head into this season with the target to consolidate on their improved league standing last season and with the introduction of four signings. Hibernians’ coach Kenneth Costantino gave some insight into the work carried in the off-season, “At the end of the season we sat down to discuss difficulties and weaknesses we endured last season. We conceded many goals, did not score very much and did not have depth in the squad. We hope that our planning and acquisitions will help us reach our targets.”
Meanwhile, questioned on whether the team could be displaying a different philosophy on the pitch, Costantino replied, “Discussing philosophy would take ages, but I strongly believe that a coach who is not able adapt to the quality of players available, the environment and the resources would be running a fine thread. Of course, needless to say there will be changes.”
On the other hand, having closed the chapter of her playing career against Hibernians, Dorianne Theuma’s first official match as head coach of a senior women’s team will kick-off against the same team.
Asked whether spectators are to expect a different approach from last season, following the benefit of pre-season, Swieqi United’s Dorianne Theuma replied, “The team is very familiar with each other as we kept same squad of last year with the addition of Sarah Urpani. It wasn’t an easy summer off the pitch, with a lot of uncertainties. However, on the pitch the players were not fazed by this and during pre-season showed the coaching staff that they are very determined and focused. Being consistent is our main objective this season.”
Debuts & Match Expectations
As noted above, Hibernians have made four acquisitions and Kenneth Costantino confirmed that debuts will be made, but was reluctant to reveal just how many will be unleashed from the off, simply saying “We acquired four new players. It would be foolish to bring in new players based on a plan and not use any.”
Two players switched sides between the two and will have an extra spotlight tonight. Jessica Dimech, who returned to Hibernians after a spell with tonight’s opponent, Swieqi United, while Sarah Urpani signed for Swieqi United and is also likely to make an appearance.
Asked about what he believes Dimech will bring to the fold, Kenneth Costantino replied, “Jessica is a very motivated player, like all my other players. She is good on the ball which is something we were after and physically robust. She will also allow us to play a different brand of football, but let us not forget she too is young and going through a process of growth.”
Meanwhile, asked a similar question, Dorianne Theuma also praised her new arrival, Sarah Urpani, “Sarah fit right in with the team. Being a national team player herself, she was not a new face for our team, having already trained with a few of our players at national team level. Besides having the right attitude and work ethic, she brings a wealth of experience despite her young age so we are very happy to have her on board.”
The coach gave a thumbs up for the debut, “That’s the plan. She worked hard during the summer – first with the national team, and after joining the team for pre-season. She has adapted well and had no issues in understanding our philosophy and style of play.”
On the other hand, both coaches refused to comment on what their departed player may bring to their rival.
With sights set on the opening match, the two were probed whether they would be willing to settle for a point tonight considering the length of the season ahead and also noting the rivalry between the two sides in the past years.
Hibernians’ Kenneth Costantino offered a diplomatic answer, “Swieqi, Mgarr and Birkirkara are very strong contenders. The other teams are all able to come up with surprises. We underestimate no-one but we must fear no-one. At this early stage a win has very little weight, but nevertheless every win is a step in the right direction.”
Asked about her thoughts on the opening match, Dorianne Theuma noted the strengthening of her opposition, “Hibernians had an active transfer window with the addition of Jessica (Dimech), Joelma (Alves Gabriel), Ileana (Farrugia) and a new keeper in Liz Harrington, which will definitely give more creativity and depth to their team.”
However, the Swieqi United coach appears focused on starting strongly with her team, “We are aware it is a direct clash with both teams ending top four last season. However, we are more focused on implementing what we have worked on during pre-season. Everything else will fall into place. Our mentality will always be play every game to win.”
All remains to be seen as the whistle blows tonight. The two teams kick-off at the Centenary Stadium, 20:15.
Lead Image: Lara Schembri
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