The plaudits keep coming for new Wanderers Westfield W-League recruit Ella Mastrantonio, but the hugely talented midfielder is determined to keep her feet on the ground.
Mastrantonio joined the club at the start of the season having been part of the Melbourne Victory squad that won the Westfield W-League Premier’s title last season.
The West Australian-born Mastrantonio has been one of the key players in the Wanderers’ unbeaten three-game start to the season, so much so that head coach Dean Heffernan was moved to heap some incredible praise on her recently.
“Ella’s got some of the best technique I have seen in the boy’s game and the women’s game,” said Heffernan.
“She can pass the ball better than most people.”
While flattered by the comments, Mastrantonio is more intent on putting her head down and doing her best for the team than getting caught up in the hype.
“It is a big wrap and I really respect and thank Dean for that,” said Mastrantonio.
“But I just have to keep doing the job and keep helping the team to get wins. That’s all that matters to me.”
Mastrantonio has formed a terrific partnership with Republic of Ireland star Denise O’Sullivan.
Together with Matilda’s star Amy Harrison they have been like rocks in the middle of the park with Mastrantonio saying she has been surprised by how quickly she has fitted into the Wanderers squad.
“It has been a bit surprising, but credit to the coaching staff, the club and the players because it has helped me greatly and made it so enjoyable,” added Mastrantonio.
The midfielder will come up against her former club, Melbourne Victory, on Saturday as the Red & Black look to continue to make an impact on the season.
Mastrantonio is expecting a tough battle and, along with another former Victory player, Kyra Cooney-Cross, will be ready for anything her former teammates will throw at them.
“It is always a special game to play your former side,” said Mastrantonio.
“For me and Kyra it will be a tough game.
“But, we have come off three great wins and have some really good momentum coming into this game.
“I don’t know if they will give me and Kyra any special attention, but if it happens we will welcome it, so bring it on.”
While Mastrantonio is more of a playmaker than an enforcer, the midfielder has shown she is more than capable of handling herself when it comes to the physical side of the game.
“I don’t mind dishing it out because you have to look after yourself and your teammates.”
