“She Could Definitely Be The Player” | Nikki Flannery Ready to Shine in Finals | Dub Zone Ep.20
CommBank Matildas’ interim head coach Tom Sermanni has been encouraged to include Melbourne City sensation Holly McNamara in the starting line-up for this week’s international friendly series against the Korea Republic.
Since her return from an ACL injury, McNamara has emerged as a standout performer in the Ninja A-League, playing a pivotal role in City’s pursuit of an “invincible” regular season and the Premiers Plate. However, the 22-year-old will temporarily shift her focus from City’s quest for a trophy treble to the national team this week.
McNamara is among six Ninja A-League players in the Matildas squad preparing to take on the Korea Republic in Sydney on Friday evening, followed by a match in Newcastle on Monday, April 7.
The City winger has netted 12 goals in just 15 Ninja A-League appearances this season, having missed the initial rounds while recovering from her third ACL injury.
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In evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the Matildas squad for the current international window, A-Leagues commentator Pellizzeri and Sydney FC legend Teresa Polias pinpointed McNamara as a crucial player who should start against the Korea Republic, whether as a central striker or on the wing in this week’s episode of Dub Zone.
“I’d really like to see Holly start again; she’s certainly earned it,” Polias stated.
“Looking at the personnel, I believe she would fit in seamlessly. Whether she plays centrally or out wide will depend on who else is on the pitch.”
“Holly McNamara possesses two elite-level skills: her ability to break into open space and dribble, as well as her precision in close-range finishing,” Pellizzeri noted. “These abilities suit her to both positions.”
“She has an instinctive flair… especially in the penalty area, knowing when to take a shot. Her ability to burst into open space excites crowds, and having Holly McNamara performing in front of full stadiums will be thrilling.”
“If they can position her effectively, whether on the left or right wing, to exploit open space—whether one-on-one with a defender or on an unmarked wing—they need to create that situation as often as possible.”
McNamara has been nominated for the March Ninja A-League Shark Player of the Month award following an outstanding performance throughout the month; cast your vote below!
March nominees for Shark Player of the Month, Ninja A-League: Vote TODAY!
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