The sight of Ashburton United centre-half Emma Checker streaming down the middle of the park, setting up attacks and bullying players in the Women’s Premier League has become the norm for those who have kept a close eye on the club this season.
But in the month of July, the Melbourne Victory defender was offered even more freedom to roam forward, as a change of tactics from Ashy offered Checker the chance to play further up the park.
She grabbed that opportunity with both hands.
Her dynamic and energetic displays holding together the Ashburton midfield saw her side go undefeated last month, with not only her defensive nous earning her plaudits from around the grounds, but also her attacking intent.
She offered drive through the middle of the park and her cool, confident demeanour on the ball typified the way that Ashburton have played their football this year, bursting forward with excitement from all areas of the park.
They’ve missed her impact over the last two rounds, as she’s travelled to take part in the Young Matildas’ AFC U-19 Women’s Championship campaign.
Ashburton coach Sinisa Cohadzic couldn’t be more complimentary of the one-time Matilda, whose professional approach to football has made a lasting impression on him.
“It’s fantastic news because she really deserves recognition for the professionalism, commitment, determination willingness to improve and winning mentality she shows every single training session and game she plays in,” Cohadzic said.
“She has been fantastic all season for us but in the last month, she has played in a new role as a defensive midfielder where she had more freedom to show her technical abilities and the talent she possesses.
“She has enjoyed that role and showed how versatile she can be. She showed me that I can rely on her whatever challenge or playing role I put in front of her.
“That shows how much talent she has, and it’s a blessing for me to have a world-class player like that to spur on the team. She is a huge part of this team.
“We know she will do very well at the tournament and we cannot wait to see her back and hopefully help us achieve something special”
She becomes the second Ashburton player to clinch Player of the Month honours after Georgia Clopefil secured the POTM for Round’s 1-3.