Gielnik reveals secret behind purring Westfield Matildas front line

Emily Gielnik believes the Westfield Matildas are thriving on the freedom to express themselves in the final third.

Gielnik capped Australia’s commanding 4-1 win over Korea Republic with a mesmeric strike from an acute angle, her third goal in as many matches.

It was a strike emblematic of a forward player soaring with confidence, and the winger lauded the role new head coach Ante Milicic has served in two convincing Cup of Nations victories.

RE-LIVE: All the Cup of Nations action from Match Day Two
REPORT: Kerr double leads Westfield Matildas in convincing win over Korea Republic
REPORT: Football Ferns bounce back with hard fought win over Argentina

“He’s been excellent to be honest,” Gielnik told FOX Sports.

“As a front player there is a lot of freedom there to try things and training has been outstanding - the level is really high.

“We’re growing in leaps and bounds, we’re on the front foot forward and it looks promising.

“Before I came on the coach has full confidence in me and he says 'be free in the front third and just take your chances'.

“There’s a lot of belief there and confidence, so I may as well back myself… I’m pretty happy I scored.”

Gielnik has crafted a reputation as one of the Westfield W-League’s best impact substitutes from her successful decade at Brisbane Roar.

But the 26-year-old appears to be emerging as one of the Australia’s most well-rounded attackers after inspiring Melbourne Victory to the Premiership in 2018/19.

The stage is poised for the Redlands United junior to continue her impressive development wearing the green and gold jersey.

“Every game I’m improving,” Gielnik said.

“I’ve still got a long, long way to go to be a great player so I’m just all about little steps forward and improving.

“And every striker that gets on the goal-scoring sheet it’s a good day so I’m happy.”