by The Stripes and Lija Athletic will initiate the Assikura Women’s League tonight. In this match preview, here are a some elements to look out for and a few words from the coaches on their expectations, potential debutants and style of play, before their opening match of the season.
Some Key Elements
The opening fixture pits the champions Birkirkara against a new team in Lija Athletic. Last year, there were few who managed to truly threaten the Stripes in possession. It will be interesting to see how Lija Athletic will approach the game in this regard, whether they will seek to work out openings on the counter-attack or if they will be positive and attempt to press the champions.
As for Birkirkara, two of last year’s most threatening goalscorers for them, Brisa Campos and Sara Saliba, have seeked new pastures. Last season the duo racked up eleven goals each, thus their presence up top will surely be a gap to contend with for Jose Borg. It will be interesting to see who he picks to lead the front line in their stead. Having said this, as noted in last season’s review, one of the strengths of Birkirkara has been the ability of several members of the squad to chip in with goals.
Considering it will be the first match of the season, one expects that fitness levels will also have a bearing on the outcome. Sluggish play will be punished by the team who is most well prepared. Unless match-determining goals are forthcoming in the early stages of the match, then one would expect that substitutes will have a say on the balance of play as legs tire.
Words From The Coaches
Asked about his expectations from the match, Birkirkara’s coach Jose Borg said, “I am expecting a good performance which will serve us well for the upcoming UEFA Women’s Champions League match in two weeks time. The result of the match against Lija Athletic is obviously important and we want to get all three points.”
Questioned about whether he will be fielding any debutants in the match, Borg confirmed, “Indeed, we are preparing for the debut of multiple players for Birkirkara today. I have identified promising young talents who left a positive impression during last season’s youth games.” Noting the work done during the summer, Borg continued, “These individuals were selected to join us for pre-season training, where they seamlessly integrated with our experienced players. The moment has now arrived for them to gradually become part of the senior squad, as we initiate their development and work toward their regular involvement with the Birkirkara squad.”
Meanwhile, questioned about the team’s expectations heading into the match, Lija Athletic coach Jethron Azzopardi showed respect to the adversary. “We are aware that Birkirkara is one of the strongest teams in the league.” However, the coach noted the team will not roll-over, “We will try to play the game and get the best out of it.”
Probed about what one can expect from Lija Athletic’s style of play, Azzopardi did not give much away from his playbook. Instead simply stating, “We will adapt the game according to our opponents style of play.”
The game starts at 8:15 pm and will be played at the Centenary Stadium. Tickets may be purchased at the door.
Lead Images: Just One Click Media / Lija Athletic
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