Matildas star in Wagga

Facilities in Wagga Wagga for the Westfield W-League match in the city later this year have today been given a rousing endorsement by Sydney FC and Matildas’ new-generation defender Elizabeth Ralston.

Ms Ralston was part of a Sydney FC delegation to visit McDonald’s Park today to promote the Sky Blues’ 3 November pre-season clash against Newcastle Jets.

“The surface looks brilliant and the facilities here at the ground are equal, if not better, than anything I’ve seen at a regional centre,” Ms Ralston.

“We came down today to promote W-League coming to Wagga and we’re more than impressed. The amenities tick all the boxes … and I understand future works are being planned which will add to the attraction of this ground being short-listed for more top level matches.

“We’re certainly looking forward to the Wagga match. It’s going to be an important part of our title defence preparations and we expect to have close to a full squad available for the match.”

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM welcomed Ms Ralston’s endorsement of the Wagga facilities and also SFC’s pre-match visit to the city to promote the game.

“Football Wagga Wagga hosted their grand finals here last weekend and that was a great success … the pitch looks in fantastic condition,” Cr Conkey said.

“The city is certainly looking forward to hosting top flight players for this friendly between Sydney FC and Newcastle Jets. It promises to be a great exhibition of football in Wagga Wagga.”

Council Strategic Recreation Officer Peter Cook said Wagga is ready for the big game which would serve as a ‘test run’ for the planned Hyundai A-League match in the city expected in September next year.

“McDonald’s Park is one of the city’s premier sports facilities and we’re proud of the way it is evolving with more improvements to expand seating and viewing areas planned to start soon,” Mr Cook said.

“Wagga continues to attract the big names in Australian sport because we have the facilities to accommodate the needs of national sporting clubs such as Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets and those NRL and AFL teams knocking on the city’s door to bring regional fixtures to Wagga.

“It’s a coup for the city to have the best of the best, across all football codes, playing right here in our city for the benefit of sports fans across the Riverina.”

Mr Cook said a large crowd was expected to support the W-League fixture and encouraged supporters to get online to secure tickets. Tickets are available at ticketebo.com.au

SFC is planning to conduct clinics in local schools on Friday 1 November and stage an open training session on Saturday 2 November prior to game day on Sunday 3 November, kicking off at 3pm.