Ferns legend Maia Jackman: ‘It’s time to try something different’

Former Football Ferns captain Maia Jackman says it’s time the national team’s head coach Jitka Klimková took a chance on someone new as the side struggles to score goals.

“It would be nice to see Milly Clegg thrown in; why not? Give it a bash. What have we got to lose?” Jackman told Newshub’s Narelle Sindos.

Clegg (17) has been in good form for the Wellington Phoenix in her women’s A-League debut season, and she’s scored goals for the New Zealand U-17 and U-20 teams.

The Ferns have scored only one goal in their last seven games, and have conceded 18.

Jackman, who played 50 games for New Zealand, said: “I think everyone is worried.”

After Thursday’s second match against Argentina, at North Harbour Stadium, the Ferns have four more friendlies in the pipeline before the FIFA Women’s World Cup starts in July.

Meanwhile, one player who did get her chance with the Ferns against Argentina in Hamilton was debutant Michaela Foster, daughter of All Blacks head coach Ian Foster.

Michaela Foster told Newshub of the advice she received from her father:

“I guess we were both unsure whether I would get on the field this tour or not, but he said just go in with an open mind, open eyes and just soak it all up.

“He knows it’s a high-pressure environment, but as long as you’re kind of open to everything and learning, you’ll get the most out of it.”

Newshub story

Fixture

Game to be played on Thursday February 23, 2023

New Zealand v Argentina (friendly)
North Harbour Stadium, Auckland, 7pm

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