Newcastle Jets' women's coach Stephen Hoyle always believed in Charlotte Lancaster's ability to find the back of the net in the A-League, and the Kiwi striker is now proving him right with a series of crucial goals.
Striker's Stunning Form Ignites Jets' Charge
Lancaster has scored in two consecutive victories, helping her side secure a 2-1 win over Sydney FC and a 1-0 statement victory against Melbourne City. This brings her personal tally to three goals for the season and has propelled the Jets up to fifth place on the ladder, locked on 16 points with Melbourne Victory.
The 22-year-old forward announced her return to form in spectacular fashion eight days ago, unleashing what Hoyle described as her "big left foot" on a stunning 30-metre strike against Sydney FC in the dying moments—a serious contender for goal of the year.
"That moment against Sydney is Charlotte at her best," Hoyle said. "We see it at training all the time. I sometimes have to tell her to stop shooting. She pulls the trigger from everywhere."
From NPL Prolific to A-League Impact
Hoyle's faith in Lancaster stems from her prolific record in Australia and New Zealand's NPL competitions, where she consistently filled the net. After a challenging two-season stint with Wellington Phoenix as a teenager where she failed to score, Lancaster rediscovered her touch with Eastern Suburbs and APIA Leichhardt.
"Charlotte has been a prolific goalscorer in the NPL for the past couple of years," Hoyle noted. "That is the challenge for every player. You can do it at one level, can you do it at the level above? She has taken her opportunity."
The coach revealed that Lancaster's return to full-time football has been key, making her fitter and sharper. After a poor performance saw her dropped from the squad earlier, her hard work on the training paddock has paid dividends.
Crucial Home Clash Against Resurgent Adelaide
The Jets now turn their attention to a Wednesday night fixture at No.2 Sportsground against a resurgent Adelaide United. The Reds sit ninth on 14 points, just two behind Newcastle, and are unbeaten in their last four matches, including a recent 2-1 win over Melbourne Victory.
"The competition is so tight," Hoyle emphasised. "Points are hard to accumulate. Adelaide are a good side and play a different shape to most teams. It can become a bit of a basketball game, up and down."
With this being the Jets' fourth game in 11 days, squad rotation is likely. Captain Cassidy Davis is expected to return after missing the City win due to a stomach bug.
Hoyle hopes the recent away wins will translate into a strong performance for the home fans. "It is really important for the community and the people who come out and support us at No.2, that we get it right and get results at home," he said.
