Western Sydney Wanderers star Ella Mastrantonio has enjoyed a whirlwind adventure in the world game.
But for now, Mastrantonio is focussed on the W-League finals, with the Wanderwomen set to take on unbeaten Melbourne City next Sunday in their first ever final’s game.
“We have the belief that we can beat anyone. We believe in ourselves, each other and in the way we play. We play with no fear and believe anything can happen.”
Mastrantonio has been glowing in her praise for the set up at Western Sydney, insisting the foundations are there for sustained success, something that has been lacking in the past at Wanderland.
“The whole set up this season at Western Sydney has been exceptional,” said Mastrantonio. “From top to bottom - the facilities, the coaching staff, the professionalism and then all the on-field stuff fell together.
“We have an incredibly tight group of amazing people which makes a huge difference and is why we’ve been successful on the pitch.”
The fiery midfielder is known for her passion on the field, she wears her heart on her sleeve, a trait that endears her to fans. However like all good footballers, she insists the fire is just her passion and she loves every moment on the field.
“Play with a smile and have fun because these will be the best times of your life and you will make life long friends from it,” says Mastrantonio when asked what advice she would give to aspiring young footballers.
Being a good role model for young girls is something Mastrantonio is very passionate about.
She has juggled studying and working while trying to be a professional footballer. Mastrantonio insists the W-League has plenty to offer future generations and called on FFA to continue to market the game to inspire young female footballers.
“We need more exposure," she says passionately.
"The more the better. Some of the players and quality of football in this league is up there with some of the best around the world, but people probably don’t see it as much as they could.
“In saying that, it’s amazing to see it come on in leaps and bounds over the last few years with so many people getting on board and doing incredible things to help grow the game and the league which the players are grateful for.”
As for what she plans to do once the current W-League season is over, Mastrantonio has signed with newly promoted NSW NPLW side Apia-Leichhardt. She will join Wanderers’ team mates Alex Huynh and Sophie Magus at Lambert Park.
Next Sunday afternoon, in the heart of the Wanderers engine room, Mastrantonio will be leading the charge as the Wanderwomen tackle City in the hope of clinching their first ever Grand Final spot.
Kick off is at 1.30pm at ABD Stadium with live coverage on ABC, Fox Sports and Kayo Sports.
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