Manly United v Blacktown Spartans Ladies Preview

PADDY Charalambous’ desire to improve as an elite footballer should be bottled.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s round 21 tussle against Blacktown Spartans, the Manly United left wingback is leaving nothing to chance as she seeks a return to the W-League later on this year.

“Even though it’s been a tough year for Manly, I’ve been happy with my own form,” the 24-year-old said.

“We haven’t been that far away to be honest, we have a very young squad. Each week we play some very good teams, and at this level you often get punished for every little error.”

Playing out of position “for the better of the team”, the former Perth Glory representative has been a standout for Manly.

“I’ve been doing extras, (coach) Sam (Gallagher) has been kind enough to let me train with the 15s boys,” Charalambous said.

“It’s tough sometimes, I train from 5pm until 7pm with them and then move straight on to my own (women’s) team until 9pm.

“The extras can make all the difference, I know what level I need to be at to play W-League again.”

In terms of the showdown with the Spartans, Charalambous knows it won’t be an easy task.

“They are a physical side and have played quality football all year,” she said.

“We only have a couple of games to go in first grade, it would be great to finish on a winning note.”

Kick-off at Blacktown Football Park is 3pm.