Adelaide United Women delivered its most complete performance of the Westfield W-League 2020/21 season to coincide with Dylan Holmes’ farewell game.
It was rather fitting the Reds Captain got the perfect send-off to mark the bittersweet occasion, who will fly out to Europe and join Swedish top-flight champions BK Häcken.
The Reds had not tasted success against the Sky Blues since January 2017, but following their record-breaking sixth victory of the season, are well-poised to secure an inaugural finals berth.
“I actually have never beaten Sydney so that’s just the perfect way for me to go,” Holmes told Reds MC Jarrod Walsh post game.
“We’re in such a great position right now and I have full belief that we can do it this year.”
Early goals from Maruschka Waldus and Mallory Weber sealed the convincing win.
Having been 2-0 up at half-time once before this season, Holmes said the squad was determined to avoid a repeat.
United led by that scoreline against Canberra United Women in Round 1 before succumbing to a 4-3 loss.
“We spoke about that at half-time that the first game of the season against Canberra when we went in 2-0 up that that they may have happened for a reason,” she said.
“And I think today was that reason and we learnt how to shut the game out.”
The 23-year-old has left an indelible mark on the squad through her consistent displays and amazing leadership attributes since her appointment as skipper prior to the start of the season.
Holmes thanked the crowd for their fantastic support and encouraged fans to flock to Coopers Stadium for the final home game of the campaign on Sunday, 21 March against Western Sydney Wanderers Women.
The aim is to break the Westfield W-League attendance record for a standalone regular season clash which currently sits at 3,105 – recorded in 2016.
“I just want to say a huge thank you,” she said.
“This year especially has been incredible the support we’ve received and I’m so happy that we could repay that support with good performances on the pitch.
“I just want to say to keep supporting the girls and try and get out on the 21st of March at Coopers Stadium – let’s try and break that record.”
The central midfielder has played a total of 41 games for the Reds across two separate stints, scoring three goals in the process.
Match details:
Friday, 12 March vs Brisbane Roar Women
Westfield W-League 2020/21 – Round 12
Kick-off 8.35pm ACDT
Venue: Lions FC Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
