Armband experience an exciting milestone for Canberra's teenage captain

It was not the result to remember, but Westfield Matildas defender Ellie Carpenter was given her first taste of captaincy in the Westfield W-League as Canberra United fell 1-0 to Newcastle Jets in Round 3.

The 18-year-old deputised for injured skipper, Rachel Corsie, on the back of her amazing 2018 for Canberra United and then Portland Thorns in the National Women's Soccer League. 

Corsie is set to receive the armband back from the Westfield Matildas starlet ahead of rebel Female Football Round, which commences with Canberra's trip to Adelaide United on Thursday evening.

“It was exciting to captain the first team and it was a great experience,” said Carpenter. 

“I think not having Rach [Corsie] there was a big loss for the team, and I feel like the girls felt that a little bit throughout the game. 

“I felt it was my responsibility to step up and rev the girls up for the game. I’m glad she’s back this weekend.”

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There will be a familiar face for Heather Garriock’s team when they arrive in Adelaide, as they come up against the Westfield W-League’s all-time leading goalscorer, Michelle Heyman.

Heyman, 30, played eight seasons for the capital city outfit, notching 56 goals in the process. 

Adelaide host Canberra to kick off rebel Female Football Round. Click here to purchase tickets.

Now, she is part of an Adelaide United outfit who are unbeaten in their first two games, and on equal points with Canberra.

Carpenter, who often plays right-back for Canberra, may have her hands full against her former teammate.

And despite playing three games in a week for club and country, the 18-year-old isn't fazed by the challenge.

“Three games in seven days, it’s hard. But I’m holding up pretty well and just excited to take to the field,” said Carpenter.

“[Heyman is a] teammate in the Matildas, and a former teammate in Canberra. It’s always exciting to come up against former teammates.”