Chelsie Dawber is hoping to use her strong form in the recent Women’s National Premier League (WNPL) as a catalyst for a big season with Adelaide United Women.
Following her re-signing with the Reds on a one-year deal for the Westfield W-League 2019/20 season, Dawber was confident a successful year free from injury will boost her chances of a fruitful campaign.
Dawber bagged a prolific total of 33 goals with Adelaide City across both the WNPL and subsequent finals series, helping the Black and Whites clinch a historic treble.
“I’ve just finished a good WNPL season,” she explained.
“I scored 30 goals in the league games, and played 90 minutes pretty much week in week out, so hopefully can do that for Adelaide United and continue the success and bring that to the team.
“… I think it’s helped my confidence.
“I’m a very confidence player that I need confidence to play well.
“So having a coach back me up and having players like that I play in United and then when I play with Adelaide City so it’s pretty good.”
The 19-year-old experienced a frustrating 2018/19 season after injury limited her to just one appearance.
However, Dawber was determined to make up for lost time and contribute to the team’s push for a maiden finals berth.
“This is my third year now being signed and hopefully I’ll get some more minutes and play more this year,” she said.
“And hopefully as a team we’ll progress into at least the top four and hopefully win this year.”
The attacking midfielder’s arrival at the Club also coincided with Ivan Karlović first year at the helm in 2017.
Dawber said the team has improved enormously during his time in charge.
“I didn’t play much last year but trainings are always organised and structured and he knows what he wants to do,” she said.
“And all the girls individually know their roles in the team.
“I think in the first year the girls were a bit confused but I think third year going in everyone knows their roles and hopefully that will show on the pitch and translate in good performances.”
