UPDATE: Brisbane Roar is gearing up for a demanding January, set to face six A-League Women matches in just 24 days. Coach Alex Smith revealed the team’s strategy to tackle this intense schedule, starting with an away game against Central Coast Mariners on January 10, 2024, followed by a home clash against Wellington just three days later.
“This month is crucial for our season,” Smith stated, emphasizing the importance of consistency during this packed schedule. The Roar currently sits in sixth place with nine points after only five games, while Melbourne City is in second place with 10 matches under their belt. The unusual table dynamics complicate predictions for the league’s strongest contenders.
Smith is determined to make the most of this challenging period, stating, “It’s a different sort of challenge, but the girls are ready. Our focus in the next four weeks will be play, recover, train, and repeat.” The coach underscored the need for precise tactical preparation, noting that each training session must count.
The Roar will be without captain Tameka Yallop, who faces several months out due to a hamstring injury. “Losing Meeks is massive,” Smith admitted, but he expressed confidence in his squad’s depth. In her absence, Momo Hayashi will take the captaincy, with Kijah Stephenson and Bente Jansen expected to step up creatively.
Dutch standout Jansen has been a game-changer, scoring five goals in five matches. Smith praised her impact: “Bente is in the prime of her career and her technical ability, honed over a decade in a competitive league, is evident.” His belief in her potential is strong, as he added, “When she gets on a roll, it’s only going to be good things to come.”
Despite the looming schedule, Smith reported no injury concerns aside from Yallop, signaling the team is in good shape for their critical January. As they prepare for the clash against the Mariners, the Roar is determined to capitalize on the opportunity to climb the ladder in the A-League Women standings.
With the matches coming thick and fast, fans will be closely watching how Brisbane Roar navigates this rigorous month. The upcoming fixtures are not just games; they are pivotal moments that could define their season. Stay tuned for live updates as the Roar embarks on this vital stretch of matches.
