Upon arriving in the United States to join the CommBank Matildas squad, Melbourne Victory midfielder Alana Murphy couldn’t help but recall the encouraging words of her teammate, Emily Gielnik.
Called up as an injury replacement for Clare Wheeler ahead of Australia’s SheBelieves Cup campaign, Murphy made her senior international debut as Matildas cap #235 during the second match of the tournament against the host nation, the United States, stepping off the bench as a 19-year-old.
From being initially overlooked for the squad to swiftly finding herself in the mix and embarking on a whirlwind journey to the US, February has been frenetic for the young midfielder. After her debut, she shared how the advice from experienced Matilda Gielnik – who boasts 60 international caps – played a crucial role in sharpening her focus for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup matches.
“It’s definitely a significant leap,” Murphy reflected.
“Before coming into camp, I spoke with Emily Gielnik during training, and she really emphasised that it feels like a sink or swim moment. You have to rise to the occasion, and that’s been my mindset heading into training and the game.”
“It is indeed a big jump, but I was eagerly looking forward to it.”
“I found out I was an injury replacement on Tuesday and flew out for the US on Monday, so I only had about six days to process everything. But that’s just how international football rolls,” Murphy explained.
“It feels incredibly special. I’m still trying to wrap my head around everything, but I’ve received a lot of lovely messages from family and friends, which makes it all the more rewarding,” she concluded.
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In the match, Murphy came on in the 64th minute during Australia’s 2-1 defeat to the US, stepping in for Mary Fowler in midfield, under the guidance of interim head coach Tom Sermanni.
Murphy’s former Victory teammate, Kyra Cooney-Cross, who now plays for Arsenal, was on the pitch when Murphy made her debut for Melbourne Victory back in December 2021, making the moment even more special for the teenager.
“I’ve known Kyra for quite a few years now. She was present at my A-league debut and now my Matildas debut, which makes it really significant,” Murphy shared.
“It’s comforting to see familiar faces around me, and knowing that she once stood where I am now, just makes it even more special,” she added.
The Matildas will conclude their SheBelieves Cup campaign against Colombia on Thursday, February 27 (AEDT).
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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