Sunshine Coast Fire Under 14 Girls sharpshooter Kirsty Clifford has capped off a stellar first year in NPL Queensland, leading her team with an impressive 50 goals for the campaign.

As captain of the team, and predominantly deployed in a striking role, Clifford led from the front as her side lost just one game throughout the season.

Clifford’s talents have earned her a reputation in front of goal as a composed finisher - tallying 48 goals before the team’s final game against Souths Strikers last Sunday - and earned her a call-up to the Queensland Under 15 Girls representative team.

Speaking after the match, where she netted a brace, Clifford said the final two goals were the most elusive.

“The game against Souths Strikers was very stressful as I was so determined to get those goals, I missed a few which I would have normally put away easily,” Clifford said of the game.

“I was trying so hard that I lacked the composure I would usually have,” she explained.

“After a few words with (Technical Director) Kevin (A’herne-Evans) and my Coach, Tom (White), at half-time, who told me to just relax, I was able to score the two goals.”

Clifford said it is the hard work of her teammates, along with the guidance of White, that’s led to their success this season.

“We were able to play a high standard of football and unfortunately only just missed out on the title and premiers,” she said.

For Clifford, her first National Premier Leagues season was a big learning curve, something she credits to training with both her Fire team and the State Under 15 Girls squad.

“This season I have been working on composure in front of goal, varying runs off the centre-back and pretty much all the different aspects of football because there is always something new to learn,” she said.

“Training and playing with the state team and playing at Nationals were amazing experiences for me, especially as I was out of my age-group,” she said, referring to her younger status in the Under 15 squad.

“I have learnt so much, and have grown so much not just as a footballer but as a person,” Clifford enthused.

“(Training with the state squad) makes you more independent, and really shows you the value of getting on well with your team. The training was great as the things you pick up from playing with people older than you, and from a different coaching staff, are invaluable.”

While Clifford says she is proud of her achievements this season, her focus is firmly on improving into the future.

“Next season I hope to play a high level of football and improve as much as I can. It would be great to maintain my spot in the Queensland Team, although that will require more hard work.”

 

Words and Image: Emily Wilson (Sunshine Coast Fire)