Scottish international Kim Little has been named player-of-the-match following her starting debut performance in Sunday’s Round 4 Westfield W-League clash against Canberra United.
It was Little’s first start for the Club after coming on as a substitute in last week’s victory over Perth Glory, scoring in the 87th minute to seal a 4-2 result for City.
Despite her goal scoring prowess at Club and international level, it wasn’t the easiest of finishes for the 108 times capped Scottish international.
After rounding Canberra ‘keeper Lydia Williams, United defender Emma Checker blocked Little’s first effort, before the 25-year-old found the back of the net on her second attempt.
“I was trying to prod and play on their line in the second half, especially being down to ten men and Jess [Fishlock] put me in a few times and I took it around the goalkeeper and was hoping to score the first time but finished [eventually],” Little said.
“I think until it’s in the back of the net I want to make sure it’s there. I think I took my time today, I probably should have had two or three, especially with the chances in the second half but I’m glad we got the victory in the end.”
Little commended her side’s performance, as the visitors raced out to a 3-1 lead at the break thanks to strikes from Marianna Tabain, Larissa Crummer and Aivi Luik.
Canberra restricted the margin to one goal after City were reduced to 10 players but Little was on target to ensure Montemurro’s side returned to Melbourne with all three points.
“We started the game reasonably well,” she said.
“We pressed them high and tried to get in behind them and again a great run from Jess (Fishlock) and Maz (Marianna Tabain) puts it in quite easily [for the first goal.]”
“I think we had a good first half but I think we were a little disappointed that we didn’t maintain it and they came into it but we finished out the match, which is the most important thing. We did well, we dominated the game and it was a well deserved win.”
Melbourne City FC will next play Adelaide United at CB Smith Reserve on Saturday 11 November.
