It's time to vote in the NAB Young Footballer of the Year for the Westfield W-League. Meet the nominees here.
Princess Ibini - Sydney FC
Much like her playing style, Ibini appears headed for a massive future at break-neck speed. Ibini – the younger sister of former Sydney FC and Mariners star Bernie – has represented Australia at under-19 level and was part of the Young Matildas side that finished third at the AFF Women’s Championships in Vietnam. She has bucket-loads of speed and loves nothing more than running at and beating her direct opponent. She enjoyed a strong season for the Sky Blues, scoring once in her 13 appearances and helping them make it all the way through to the W-League grand final.
Amy Harrison - Sydney FC
Another of the strong contributors for the Sky Blues, Harrison was a standout during the W-League season and was on track to be a part of the Westfield Matildas squad for the recent Olympic qualifiers. Unfortunately for the midfielder, she suffered a knee injury against Melbourne Victory in December which required a full knee reconstruction. A former captain of the Young Matildas, Harrison has exceptional leadership qualities and is an assured and composed player in the middle of the park.
Angela Beard - Brisbane Roar
What a season it was for Beard in the W-League. The dashing defender was the only Roar player to play all 1080 minutes during the regular season, helping the club make the finals. There’s plenty to admire about Beard’s game, very strong in the air with excellent distribution, while her attacking mindset always catches the eye. Representing Australia at youth level and a member of the Young Matildas squad, she’s certainly a bright prospect for the future.
Larissa Crummer - Melbourne City
Crummer made the switch from Brisbane to City in the off-season and made quite an impact. She was the W-League’s top scorer with 11 as City went through the season unbeaten to claim the championship. Crummer averaged a goal every 78 minutes and also contributed two assists from her 12 appearances. Crummer has a great first touch and excellent eye for goal, which is why she is also making her mark for Alen Stajcic’s Westfield Matildas.
