Tomorrow marks the start of Round 4 in the Women’s National League Championship and these are all the matchups for this weekend:

Auckland United vs Western Springs

This will be the first match of the round, taking place at Keith Hay Park on Saturday at 1:00 PM.

Under the guidance of Ben Bate, Auckland United started the league with a draw against CF-Waterside Karori and has since secured another two consecutive victories, establishing themselves as strong title contenders. Auckland United hasn't lost an official match in over a year, and while they've won every encounter with Western Springs this year, the margins have always been slim.

For Western Springs, it’s crucial to earn at least a point to avoid falling behind in the standings. Currently sitting in sixth place, Maia Vink’s team risks trailing by at least two matches if they lose against Auckland United, with only five rounds left to play. Rina Hirano has been a key player for Western Springs, contributing to four of their seven goals this season with three goals and one assist. In contrast, Auckland United has showcased a diverse attack, with six different players scoring their eight goals this season, proving they can threaten the opposition with multiple options.

CF-Waterside Karori vs Central Football

In the second and final match on Saturday, CF-Waterside Karori will host Central Football at Martin Luckie Park at 2:00 PM.

This game presents a great opportunity for the home side to continue adding three points and stay among the top teams in the standings. Tory Schiltgen’s side is one of four clubs still unbeaten after the first three matches, facing a Central Football team that has struggled defensively and has yet to register a point.

Wellington Phoenix Reserves vs Eastern Suburbs

The first match on Sunday kicks off at 12:30 PM at Fraser Park.

The home side arrives at this match at the bottom of the table. Callum Holme’s team is dealing with several absences due to the U-17 Women’s World Cup taking place in the Dominican Republic, having conceded 13 goals in their three matches while only managing to score once.

On the other side, Eastern Suburbs, managed by Katie Duncan, has secured just one point from a goalless draw against Southern United. They are currently the only team yet to score in the competition. While their tough fixtures against top teams may explain this, the ‘Lilywhites’ will need to improve if they want to secure their first win.

Southern United vs Canterbury United Pride

This match will take place on Sunday at 1:00 PM and will be Southern United’s first home game of the season, being played at Logan Park.

The finalists from last year will need to make a strong statement at home if they hope to return to the National League final. However, they will face a team that remains unbeaten in the league.

Canterbury United Pride has already faced two of the stronger rivals, Wellington United and West Coast Rangers, and has yet to lose. They know this match is crucial for their chances of making the final. In the upcoming rounds, they will face Auckland United and CF-Waterside Karori, both of whom are currently vying for top spots. A win against Southern United would set them up well for the rest of the season.

West Coast Rangers vs Wellington United

Closing out Round 4, this match will take place on Sunday at 1:00 PM at Fred Taylor Park.

This game promises to be one of the standouts of the round. The home side has dropped valuable points in the dying moments of their last two matches but is still currently the highest-scoring team in the tournament, with great potential to remain contenders for the final. Though, the series of late-game lapses has left them with little margin for error going forward, making a win essential on Sunday.

On the other hand, they will face Wellington United, a strong team with the pace of Natalie Olson in attack, posing a threat to any defence. Guillermo Schiltenwolf’s side is known for their attacking mentality and drive to win. The offensive style of both teams, combined with the Rangers urgent need for victory, may create openings in both defences for attackers to capitalise on.

You can catch all the matches live and free on FIFA+

Article added: Friday 18 October 2024