There’s a real buzz around Cromer Park as Manly United’s Senior Women return home for their first game of the 2026 season tonight.
After opening the campaign with two away fixtures, the group comes back to familiar surroundings full of confidence, having picked up four valuable points with a draw and a win on the road.
It’s never easy starting a season away from home, but this squad has embraced the challenge. A strong 1–1 result against Macarthur Rams, with Phoebe Gilbane on the scoresheet, was followed by a standout performance last weekend.
That match was a celebration of attacking football, with new signing Brin Gentle announcing herself in style with a hat-trick in a 3–0 win over Sydney Olympic – a performance that reflected the balance within the squad and the positive energy continuing to build within this group.
It’s a squad that combines experience, new faces and homegrown talent – a blend that continues to shape the Manly United identity. Long-time pathway representatives Sarah Whelan and Mackenzie Jeffs have earned their First Grade debuts this season, while goalkeeper Chelsea McCredie has made her move from GYL to the U23s – and boasts a clean sheet from her opening two games.
The U23s have enjoyed an equally impressive start to the season, remaining unbeaten after two impressive 3-0 and 4-0 wins – with the goals shared across seven different players only emphasising their depth.
Tonight’s opponents, Northern Tigers, arrive with one win and one loss from their opening fixtures, and they will be keen to bounce back quickly.
For the hosts, the squad will be eager to put on a strong performance in front of their home supporters and to share the moment with their Manly family.
Tonight’s fixture starts with the U23s at 5.30pm, followed by the First Grade at 7.30pm.
The first home game of the season also provides an opportunity to recognise an integral part of the Manly United community – our Principal Partner, Brown Bros Skip Bins – who will be presented with their supporter jersey ahead of the First Grade game to thank them for their long-standing support of the Manly Women’s program.
Image credit: Facet Photography
