Dylan Holmes is eagerly anticipating Saturday’s double header at Coopers Stadium on New Year’s Day.
Holmes is in line to make her first appearance for the Club since re-signing after completing her mandatory quarantine.
The 24-year-old left for Swedish outfit BK Häcken back in March and went on to play 15 matches across all competitions, while also making her Matildas debut.
It is the first time both Adelaide United’s women’s and men’s teams will be playing at the venue on the same day since January 2017.
Adrian Stenta’s squad host Perth Glory, while Carl Veart’s side later tackle Wellington Phoenix.
“When I heard the (December 23) game was postponed, I was selfishly very happy that’s I’ll be able to play in it,” Holmes admitted in a press conference at Coopers Stadium.
“Because I’ve actually never played in a double header at Coopers Stadium before, so I’m so excited.
“I can’t wait to be out on the field with the girls and hopefully we can get the three points for the fans.
“We’re hoping that as many fans take advantage of the opportunity to see both teams on the same day, at the same place.
“I hope the Adelaide United fans get right behind it.”
Holmes had accrued 41 matches for the Reds across two stints in 2014 and later between 2018 and 2021.
The central midfielder was delighted to be back home and hopes the increase in playing time will propel her into Matildas contention ahead of the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup next month.
“It’s been good, it’s really nice to be home and back with some of my best friends,” she revealed.
“I guess the biggest transition for me has been the heat, but I’ve done it before so hopefully the more I train the easier it will get.”
Perth will provide a tough test for the Reds, having won its opening two fixtures against Brisbane Roar.
Holmes was aware of their dynamism, but was confident they can secure the triumph and begin to build some momentum.
“I’m expecting a really exciting and dynamic team from Perth,” she said.
“I think they’ve secured a lot of really young, exciting talent from different states and I think Alex Epakis has done a really good job with them over the last two games.
“So I think it will be a really good contest here at Coopers Stadium but we’re ready and we believe we can get the three points.”
Match details:
Saturday, 1 January vs Perth Glory
Liberty A-League 2021/22 – Round 5
Kick-off 4.35pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Stream: Paramount+
