Orlando Pride Shine Abroad: Previewing the W-League Semifinals

With the Pride preseason still a ways off, many players are still abroad, using their talents elsewhere to better their game. In Australia, the members of the Orlando Pride have been putting in work to better themselves and the team.

The Westfield W-League is coming to a close with the two semifinal games taking place Saturday. Of the four teams represented, three of them include players from the Pride.

Lets take a look at the two matches and catch up on how our beloved players have been doing in the land down under.

Perth Glory vs. Sydney FC

Newcomer Alanna Kennedy, will represent Orlando in the first of the two semifinals, as Sydney FC travels to take on Perth Glory. Kennedy has been a staple for the Sydney FC back line, playing in every minute of 11 games. She has scored two goals and recorded one assist. With a passing accuracy of 78.4%, it is no wonder that she has started every game she has played in. Sydney FC have played Perth Glory once before this season, losing 1-0 back in December. Kennedy is confident that the team will be ready to go and redeem themselves, earning a spot in the finals.

"Now it's all or nothing, so it's always going to be a different mind frame. We'll be ready to go," said Kennedy

Canberra United vs. Melbourne City FC

Between the two teams, four Orlando Pride players will be represented in this match. Steph Catley and Laura Alleway will be donning Melbourne jerseys, while Jasmyne Spencer and Lisa De Vanna are with Canberra United. Catley and Alleway have both played and started 12 games, each with a passing accuracy above 80%, making them two of the best defenders in the league. Jasmyne Spencer and Lisa De Vanna have played less significant roles, playing in a combined total of 14 games without scoring a single goal. This will be the first match between these teams since December, when Canberra defeated Melbourne, 2-1.

Regardless of which teams win, at least two members of the Orlando Pride squad will be playing for the trophy in the Grand Final. The date and location of the match have not been set.

Stay tuned as we bring you updates on the matches and determine who may be bringing some hardware back to the Sunshine State.