Second on the table, unbeaten, and Izzy Berks cannot stop scoring.
The English winger’s brace against Geelong Galaxy made it an astonishing seven goals in four games, sealing a 5-3 win at Bannockburn Reserve and extending an unbeaten start that has this squad sitting joint-top of the table. Ten points from twelve, still unbeaten after four rounds, and a squad depth that keeps growing. American import Ally Giovino also bagged a double, while her compatriot Paige Foa rounded out the scoring in a high-octane affair.
A 4-0 demolition of Melbourne University in Round 2 had set the standard, before a 3-1 triumph over Bayside Argonauts, with Claudia Dimasi opening the scoring at The Web, and another clinical Berks brace deciding the contest in the second half. This is a side playing with genuine belief, and the results back it up.
Banyule City make the quick trip North-East on Friday evening for Round 5. The VPL Women’s season is still in its early stages, and Banyule will have their own ambitions for this fixture. Local bragging rights are on the line whenever two sides from this part of Melbourne meet, and the visitors will not lack motivation. But the Redbacks only trail league leaders Bundoora on goal difference, and Banyule arrive seven points adrift in 10th place, with a goal difference of -12. The form guide and the home advantage on the synthetic under lights both favour the hosts.
Berks and Paige Foa have developed an understanding in the attacking third that gives the Redbacks genuine quality going forward. Ally Giovino adds another dimension, and Tiana Orfanidis has been composed behind a defence that has grown with every match. Jonathan Barrientos has this group organised, fit, and playing for each other.
Friday night, 8:30pm, The Web. The lights are on, the form is strong, and this squad deserves a crowd. Get down and support the girls.
Up the ‘Backs.