Veronica Latsko stressed Adelaide United will not be underestimating Western Sydney Wanderers despite collecting just one point this season.
Latsko insisted the squad will be going into the match like any other, stating they cannot afford to be complacent.
The Reds have three successive matches at Marden Sports Complex to end the season, starting with the Wanderers on Saturday.
Adelaide, fifth and on equal points with Sydney FC, will likely have to win at least two of those remaining games to cement a maiden finals appearance on their terms, and not rely on other results.
“I think we all know in this league anything is possible,” Latsko said.
“You look at Newcastle’s upset against Perth and you can’t take any team for granted.
“We plan on coming into this game like we do any other game. Whether it be Melbourne Victory who’s at the top of the table or if we’re facing Western Sydney, each team is different and they bring a challenge to us.
“We’re definitely going into every game thinking this is a must win for us to get to finals.”
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The American forward added that WSW’s performances have improved too, irrespective of remaining winless.
“From what we can see they seem to be gaining some momentum in their play,” she said.
“They’ve put up a couple of good matches recently, even if they haven’t got the results and we just have to be aware of what they might bring on the counter-attack.
“So I think just staying disciplined defensively is what we need to make sure we keep doing.”
The 23-year-old refused to take any credit for success in front of goal this season, instead attributing her impressive impact to her teammates.
Latsko has scored a prolific eight goals in nine games and said the transition to the Westfield W-League and playing in a different country has been rather seamless.
“I’ve found the transition pretty seamless mostly because of my teammates,” she continued.
“So everything that I’ve been able to do, I’ve only been able to do it because of the people around me and how incredible they’ve been playing.
“Honestly, I attribute pretty much everything I’ve been able to do to them and they’re the behind-the-scenes workers that don’t get the credit that they really deserve.
“It’s been amazing playing with them and I’ve loved this season and I love this team.”
Adelaide United host Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 12 of the Westfield W-League 2018/19 season on Saturday, 19 January at Marden Sports Complex. Kick-off is at 4.00pm ACDT. Gates open at 3.00pm.
