Despite a slow start, Adelaide United Women midfielder Dylan Holmes says the morale within the squad remains high.
Adelaide have endured a tough start following narrow defeats to Western Sydney Wanderers Women and Sydney FC Women.
Holmes felt the team can draw confidence from their promising display against the reigning champions moving forward.
“It was definitely a really encouraging performance,” she said.
“I think probably one of the best games I’ve been a part of in recent memory, but definitely just lacking just that final touch, but definitely a lot of positives to take into this week against Melbourne City.”
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Although the Reds’ impressive performances have unfortunately not yielded any points yet, the 22-year-old maintained the belief amongst the group was strong.
“I think the mood around the team is very positive still,” she said.
“I think we recognise there are a lot of good things that happened in both of the games even though we lost.
“It’s important that we keep that positivity and try and work on what we need to work on, but at the same time take confidence from what we’ve done well in the last few games.”
Melbourne City Women come into the clash off the back of a dramatic 2-1 win against Canberra United Women last round.
Emily van Egmond slotted a 94th minute penalty to complete the comeback after falling behind just before the hour mark.
City, who have four points to begin the new season, have brought in a number of high-profile recruits this season.
Matildas stars van Egmond, Ellie Carpenter and former Reds captain Emma Checker are just some of the new arrivals.
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Holmes anticipated another tough game but stressed it was important not to fear Saturday night’s opponents.
“I think it will be a really tough game,” she said.
“They’ve a lot of quality players, a lot of experience, great coach.
“Against Sydney we played really, really well. So I think we’ve a lot of confidence from that, but we’ve to respect them but don’t fear them because we believe in our qualities as well.”
On a personal note, she admitted she is enjoying her time in the Westfield W-League in what is her second consecutive season and third overall.
Holmes has impressed anchoring the centre of the field alongside Kahlia Hogg.
“I’m loving every second of it and I’m really glad I get to play with Kahlia,”
“I didn’t really get to play with her much last season so she’s a great player and every week we’re kind of learning more and more from each other, so I think it’s only going to get better from here.”
Adelaide United Women face Melbourne City Women in Round 3 of the Westfield W-League 2019/20 season on Saturday, 30 November at John McEwan Reserve. Kick-off is at 6.30pm ACDT. Live and Exclusive on Kayo Sports and the My Football Live App.
