Alana Murphy felt pretty calm stepping up to take what ended up being the game-winning penalty against Melbourne City to keep Victory’s Championship hopes alive.
This should come as no surprise given she has taken every opportunity thrown her way with Melbourne Victory in her stride.
Smashing the penalty into the right hand side of the goal, Murphy said she felt confident before taking the spot kick.
“A whole world of things went through my head and I was just happy to be celebrating with the girls,” Murphy said.
In a see-saw game that included Victory letting a two goal lead slip, Murphy said there was confidence they could win a penalty shootout if they pushed through extra time.
She said winning the Semi FInal was one of her favourite moments of the season.
“I think just the relief that all the girls had after we won after the game was over, it had been such a long day,” she said.
“We just needed to get it done and we finally did, so everyone was super happy with that.”
The season has included many top moments from the 17-year-old, ranging from scoring top-bin bangers and cementing a spot in the starting eleven.
“Going into the season I definitely wanted to get my starting spot and keep it,” Murphy said.
“I’m pretty happy with how that’s gone. Obviously last season was my first season. It was obviously going to be a slow start for me, but I’m feeling good every game going into it confidently now.”
Her achievements breaking into the A-League Women’s squad is made all the sweeter for doing it with her hometown club.
“I’ve always been a fan of Victory since I was young,” Murphy said.
“I remember going to the games, singing Stand By Me before it was always my favourite part. So to be walking out on the pitch to the same song is just incredible.”
Only Sydney FC stands in the way of a third grand final appearance in a row for Victory, and Murphy said they had been building up confidence throughout the week.
“We’re definitely focused on what’s right in front of us for now, and once we get past that, we’ll move onto the next one,” she said.
“They’re such a strong team and we are too, so it’s always going to be good.”
And despite suggestions otherwise, Murphy confirmed she doesn’t turn 18 until September.
“Everybody thinks that I’m turning 18 on Friday, my birthday is not actually in April,” she said.
