Quartet of US footballers lend their experience to W-League

THE Western Sydney Wanderers W-League now boast four American professionals who say they’ll bring much-needed experience to the squad.

Four players have joined the Wanderers W League team from the USA. Picture: Justin Sanson

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THE Western Sydney Wanderers W-League outfit plays its first home game this Sunday at Marconi Stadium and four American professionals says they’ll bring much-needed experience to the squad.

Alex Arill, Kendall Fletcher, Paige Nielson and Katie Stengel will make Penrith their home for the summer as they compete in Australia’s women’s football competition while America has its off season.

Arill, who plays for FC Kansas City sent film of herself playing to Australian clubs and the Wanderers quickly snapped her up.

Wanderers W League players Alex Arlitt, Kendall Fletcher, Paige Nielsen and Katie Stengel. Picture: Justin Sanson

“A lot of people in the US league look to come over here in play during our off season and I was pretty keen to come and play here,” she said.

Fletcher is in her seventh season in Australia and the Seattle Rain FC player said after stints in Melbourne and Canberra the Wanderers presented her with an opportunity she couldn’t knock back.

“I was excited about what the club were doing here. They’re working on building this program and they’re trying to build something,” Fletcher said.

“I told the other girls one the best things about playing here is the environment off the field. It’s always a good atmosphere.

The four new Wanderers W League players pictured at Western Sydney University campus at Kingswood. Picture: Justin Sanson

“On the field it’s an opportunity for them to develop and step into a leadership role and bringing the qualities from the US.”

Nebraska native Nielson has been impressed by the standard of competition after two rounds – after all, her Wanderers are still looking for their first win in Sunday’s round three clash against Adelaide United.

“The professionalism is good and there’s a lot of energy,” she said.

“The game is getting a lot better here. Our Olympic team has made it a dream for young girls to play the game.”

The Wanderers couldn’t come from behind last weekend in their 2-0 loss to Sydney FC and in round one were tied up at 2-2 with Perth Glory before they scored a couple of unanswered goals.

Washington Spirit player Katie Stengel said the facilities available were first-class and it was time the American players started to stamp their authority more and use their experience.

Alex Arlitt, Kendall Fletcher, Paige Nielsen and Katie Stengel believe American football is more physical.

“The main difference is that the girls here are younger. We have the college system in place where you play for four years then go professional,” she said.

“They start a lot younger at a higher level. I’d say the football in the US is a lot more physical.”

Sunday’s match starts at 3pm.