Words: Garry McKenzie
Image: Chris Simpson

Promising Ipswich talent Nikki Dawes is revelling in an unexpected goal spree which has pushed the once goal-shy Western Pride Women up into mid-table.

Pride had been struggling in front of goal since losing prolific local striker Nikkita Hubbard to PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues Women’s rivals Eastern Suburbs FC early in the season.

When coach Len Manwaring reviewed his attacking options he recognised in midfielder Dawes the attributes required to succeed as striker.

The 16-year old was asked to lead the line and has responded with four goals in her last five games, including a long range stunner against SWQ Thunder.

Dawe said that goal in particular gave her a lot of confidence in an unfamiliar role.

“I’ve never trained in the role of striker and didn’t even think I could play it,” Dawes explained.

“I also scored a goal from an indirect free-kick against Olympic the other night and I was so nervous, but when the ball went in it was the best feeling.”

Dawes said the first thing she learned after being pushed forward is that strikers are required to be fleet of foot.

“I have always been a midfielder so speed is something I have definitely had to work hard on to add to my game up the front,” Dawes added.

“Luckily I also play futsal so I feel that my fitness is quite good and being fit helps me a lot.”

Dawes’s pathway to the national second tier commenced as a six-year-old at local community club Western Spirit, where she was the only girl in her mixed team.

She said at the time she had to play well because some boys didn’t believe girls could play football.

“I remember at one of the carnivals when I was seven my team played in the grand final and I was the only girl in both teams and I got the ‘Man of the Match’ trophy - that was funny,” Dawes said.

“When I was 11, I started playing in the U12’s girls’ team and that’s when I really started to love soccer.”

Dawes moved to St Peter Claver College three years ago and whose futsal and football programs under coach Greg Farrell she credits as playing a large part in her development.

A successful trial for the Western Pride Under 15 team followed and after two seasons she was promoted to the PlayStation National Premier League Women’s squad in the summer.

Dawes said moving up to seniors with several of her Pride Under 15 Girls teammates helped the transition.

“Since playing with the women this year I feel that the competition is better in quality and I have to be strong every time I play,” Dawes said.

“My dream would be to play in the W-League as I always enjoy watching their games and hope one day I could play in that league too.

“I have always loved playing so of course I want to go as far as I can go,” she concluded.

Dawes and her Pride teammates continue their push up the league table on Sunday when they travel to University of Queensland FC Women.

PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues Women’s – Round 14

University of Queensland FC Women v Western Pride FC Women
Sunday, June 19 | 2:00PM
University of Queensland Field 7, Brisbane