Ella Mastrantonio to provide important cover | Credit: Football Federation Victoria Ella Mastrantonio to provide important cover | Credit: Football Federation Victoria

Slowly but surely the Melbourne Victory filling the holes in their squad as the Victorian side prepares to contest for a maiden W-League title.  The latest piece of the puzzle is former Matilda and former Perth Glory midfielder Ella Mastrantonio.

Like Lauren Barnes last week and Maika Ruyter-Hooley earlie this week, the midfielder addresses one of the Melbourne Victory's key worries; how to replace Katie Hoyle when the midfielder departs for international duty.

Struggling to receive ample game time and replaced by Shawn Billam in the Perth Glory midfield, Mastrantonio parted company with WA side last week.  Having made 11 appearances for the Victory in the 2010/11 season, the club was soon in contact with the 22 year old, and following a trial, was quickly signed by coach Dave Edmondson.

"I became aware of her availability and contacted her to see if she was interested in a move to Melbourne,” Edmondson said.

“She was very keen so we arranged for her to come down and train and once she showed what she was capable of and offers to the side, it was an easy decision to sign her."

Mastrantonio's availability comes at an ideal time for the joint ladder leaders with the club set to lose NZ international Hoyle for two weeks, including the crucial semi final.

In the former Matilda, Edmondson is confident she can replace Hoyle to assist Jessica Fishlock and Gulcan Koca in the three player midfield.

“Ella will provide some experienced cover for Katie Hoyle," he continued.

"I’ve seen a lot of her over the years and she offers a strong presence in the midfield, a good football brain and a determination to succeed, all of which fit in well with our playing style and philosophy.”

The 57 game W-League veteran is another weight off Edmondson's shoulders with Ruyter-Hooley and Barnes set to hold down what was an inexperienced and young defensive four.

The question must be asked why it took until a fortnight out from the finals for Victory to have cover for all positions.

However, with Melbourne's spot in the finals confirmed, and the squad as strong as it has been all season, Edmondson can now turn is attention on the battle for the minor premiership and the championship.

For Mastrantonio she turns her mind to a first up clash against her former side Perth Glory this Saturday at Kingston Heath Soccer Complex. Kick off is at 3:00pm with the Victory W-League Live broadcasting the match at www.livecast.com.au.