Honour for Glory women

Perth Glory women will hunt a historic double after claiming the W-League premiership for the first time in club history.

Glory secured top spot with two rounds to play when second-placed Canberra United failed to beat Newcastle Jets yesterday.

The WA side celebrated in emphatic fashion, thumping Western Sydney Wanderers 5-0 at Ashfield Sports Complex.

Glory will host a semifinal next month and have their sights set on a first grand final triumph.

Coach Jamie Harnwell said Glory’s maiden premiership made all the club’s hard work worthwhile, but said his team remained focused on the next prize.

“It’s a great moment for Perth Glory women but there’s still a job to be done,” Harnwell said.

“Over the next couple of weeks we want to keep the momentum going and maintain this form into the finals.

“I’m very proud of the girls and the way they have gone about things so far.

“They’ve worked hard and being crowned premiers is a great achievement for them and for everyone associated with the club.

“This is vindication for the hard work and hard decisions we’ve had to make over the past three or four years.”

Matildas striker Samantha Kerr gave Glory an early lead against Western Sydney with a fine strike after being sent clear by Kate Gill.

Kerr, who returned to Glory this season after two years away, doubled the advantage before half-time and could have had a hat-trick, but squandered some good chances.

Collette McCallum scored the goal of the match before half-time, firing into the top corner from distance.

Marianna Tabain and golden boot leader Kate Gill rounded out the scoring in the second half.

Glory now play the last two competitive games of the season as premiers with a home semi-final at nib Stadium to look forward to next month.