Sophie Harding’s quest to be a star striker

When Sophie Harding walked off the pitch last Monday afternoon, she was beaming.

Justifiably so, after scoring both goals in Manly United’s come from behind 2-1 win versus NWS Koalas at ELS Hall Park in North Ryde.

“I was happy, not everyone sees the hard work I’ve been putting in,” the 18-year-old said.

“As much as I was proud to win the Reserve Grade golden boot award last year, I am ambitious, I want to play first grade.

“(Coach) Chris Williams told me when I came on to make an impact, I was pleased to be able to do that.”

Harding’s game has gone to a new level after training with the Western Sydney Wanderers last season.

While it didn’t result in a W-League contract, her hunger and desire is obvious.

“It was a great experience, I was training up to six sessions a week,” she said.

“I knew I had to step up and I didn’t feel out of place.

“You should always look for ways to improve all aspects of your game – if I can do that, I should be able to realise my potential.”

With star striker Remy Siemsen expected to soon depart the club to play overseas professionally, Harding’s brace on Easter Monday was timely.

Not that she is counting her football chickens.

“There are plenty of good young players like Claudia Cholakian working towards the same goal,” Harding said.

“All I can do is keep making the most of opportunities when they come my way.”

Williams has noticed Harding’s development, labelling her improvement ‘obvious’ earlier this week.

Harding has the chance to impress on home soil this Sunday when Manly United host Illawarra Stingrays at Cromer Park from 4pm.