The Strikers women are riding high after putting their western rivals to the sword 2-0 in last weekend’s fixture and coach Mick Simons will expect a similarly polished performance when the sides meet again at O’Connor Park. 

“The 2-0 win against Leeton was a good confidence builder for the girls,” Simons said.

“In the first half we attacked really well … and made some really handy chances.”

Charlee McPherson and Taylah Dickinson were heroines on the day, scoring goals either side of halftime to sink United, while key forward Alana Simons was a constant threat down the right-hand flank. 

However, the Strikers general believes his side can still improve their finishing and stamp their authority against an unorthodox Leeton outfit this weekend.

“We showed glimpses of what we can do (last week) but not enough to take hold of the match,” Simons said. 

“It was a hard game for our girls to play as Leeton really had no structure and just seemed to kick long at any opportunity.

“Now that we now that, we can prepare for a similar style of play this weekend.

The Strikers’ depth will be tested with key players Ash Holder, Sarah Vidmar and Janine Lambert ruled out and Charlee McPherson in doubt for Sunday’s clash but Simons is confident his side can flourish at home. 

“I am expecting our girls to win this game at home and prove that we can in fact capitalise on our chances and finish them off,” Simons said. 

“But I know we have the girls to do a job on Leeton this Sunday.”

The Strikers kick off against Leeton on Sunday July 16.