W-League predictions for season 2016-17

The W-League season kicks off this weekend and that means I’m back to offer my ‘expert’ predictions. Journey with me into the crystal ball as I do my best impersonation of Nostradamus.

1. Melbourne City then daylight
City claimed both the regular season premiership and the overall championship last season and yet they have managed to further strenghthen their roster for the 2016-17 edition by signing incumbent Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams.

There will be no flying under the radar this season – the new kids on the block tag replaced by that of reigning champions. The hunter has become the hunted, but motivation will only go so far and there is every chance they will secure back-to-back titles.

2. Canberra United will start slow before storming into the finals
The Canberra Times reported that United has had a disjointed pre-season, struggling to get the full squad together until recently. With a bye in Round 1, they could endure a rusty start to the season, and we might not see the girls in green enter the top four until after Christmas.

There’s been plenty of transfers both in and out of the squad. They’ve bolstered their attacking depth but their defensive resolve will be tested with Nicole Begg taking the season off and keeper Lydia Williams shifting to City.

3.The double-headers will be a success for the competition
While it will be difficult to truly assess the impact this will have on the game, it’s hard to think it will be anything other than positive.

Having more matches played prior to A-League games will naturally increase the exposure of the competition. Even if it’s just casual fans killing time with the curtain raiser, there is the potential to convert viewers to the competition and to further encourage support of grass roots competitions.

4.The locals will outshine international players more often than not
The USA competition for women’s football is strong, but I believe the Aussie girls will be grabbing more headlines this year. With players from both the young Matildas and the senior squad returning from a busy international winter, there will be oodles of talent on display in the league along with plenty of players looking to put their hands up for selection.

5. Adelaide will be the surprise packets of the season
With some strong international signings and minimal interference from media outlets, the ladies in red have the potential to be a surprise title contender.

The road trip to Adelaide isn’t an easy one for any club, and a couple of away wins could easily see Adelaide featuring in the pointy end of the season.

I’ll be doing my best to keep across the W-League news as the season progressing and I’ll be attending every home Canberra United fixture.

Who do you believe was the best pre-season signing? Let me know your thoughts and fearless predictions for the season ahead!