Round 4 Preview – NPL Women’s NSW

npl-womens-Preview

Ahead of round four of the National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW competition, the ladder is beginning to take shape with several blockbuster fixtures on the horizon.


Northern Tigers v NWS Spirit

6:30pm, Saturday 28 March – NTRA

The only match on Saturday night sees the Northern Tigers host NWS Spirit at NTRA.

The Tigers have recorded one win, one draw and one loss from their opening three matches, leaving them seventh on the ladder. They will be targeting a return to winning ways, which would be their first victory since the opening round.

It has been a difficult start to the season for NWS Spirit, who have suffered three defeats while conceding 16 goals. Facing the Tigers away from home presents another tough challenge for the visitors.


APIA Leichhardt v Manly United

4:50pm, Sunday 29 March – Lambert Park

Two unbeaten sides meet at Lambert Park as APIA Leichhardt take on Manly United.

APIA are the only team in the competition with a perfect record so far in 2026. While their performances may not have been flawless, they continue to find ways to secure victories.

Talia Kapetanelis has made an immediate impact at her new club, settling in impressively.

Manly have also started strongly and remain undefeated after three rounds. Despite being held to a draw last weekend, an outstanding strike from Alexia Forner stole the spotlight.

Manly have caused problems for APIA in the past and will be eager to do so again.


UNSW v Bulls FC Academy

5:00pm, Sunday 29 March – The Village Green

A key clash at The Village Green sees UNSW host Bulls FC Academy on Sunday evening.

UNSW have dropped points just once this season and have kept two clean sheets, highlighting their defensive strength. At the other end, Alexia Karys-Stahl has proven a valuable addition, scoring another decisive goal last weekend.

After a draw on the opening day, Bulls FC Academy have responded with back-to-back wins. Petria Phillips and Jade Guichon were standout performers in their latest victory.

This match could go either way and looms as an important contest in both teams’ push for silverware.


WSW v Macarthur Rams

5:00pm, Sunday 29 March – Wanderers Football Park

The Western Sydney Wanderers host the Macarthur Rams on Sunday evening.

The Wanderers have enjoyed a strong start to the season, exceeding expectations under Jamie Dib. Alyssa McKenzie has been a key threat, scoring two goals in as many matches.

This will also mark the Wanderers’ first home game of the campaign.

The Rams have collected just one point from their opening three fixtures, and Vic Guzman will be eager for an improved return. Despite a challenging away trip, the young side will back themselves to compete.


Western City Rangers v Sydney University

5:00pm, Sunday 29 March – Popondetta Park

Western City Rangers face Sydney University at Popondetta Park on Sunday evening.

Both sides enter the match off the back of 4-1 defeats and will be keen to respond.

The Rangers have struggled early in the season and will be playing their fourth consecutive home game. Anything less than a win here would mark a disappointing start to their campaign.

Sydney University showed promise in earlier rounds, including a strong performance against APIA, but their loss to Sydney Olympic last weekend will have stung. Securing a point away from home would be a positive outcome.


Gladesville Ravens v Illawarra Stingrays

5:10pm, Sunday 29 March – Christie Park

Gladesville Ravens host Illawarra Stingrays at Christie Park on Sunday.

After back-to-back losses to start the season, the Ravens responded impressively with a win over Western City Rangers. They will look to build on that momentum and reinforce their standing.

The Stingrays have recorded one win from three matches, alongside two narrow 1-0 defeats. Another challenging away fixture awaits, but they will be aiming to make a statement.


Sydney Olympic v Hills United

5:40pm, Sunday 29 March – The Crest

Sydney Olympic welcome Hills United to The Crest in the final match of the round.

Olympic have shown they can be dominant when at their best, recording big wins in rounds one and three. Another victory here would further underline their credentials.

Hills United have endured a tough introduction to the top tier, picking up just one point so far. This fixture presents an opportunity to add to their tally, though failure to do so could see them remain near the bottom of the ladder.

– By Nikola Pozder