Has the balance of power shifted in the Westfield W-League?
Alanna Kennedy's return to Sydney FC from Melbourne City may prove a pivotal moment as two powerhouses prepare to fight for the upcoming 2018/19 title.
Kennedy has joined regular Westfield Matildas teammates Chloe Logarzo, Lisa De Vanna and Caitlin Foord in the Harbour City, raising hopes of exacting revenge on the team that trumped them in last year's Grand Final.
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City responded by snapping up Tameka Butt and Elise Kellond-Knight to add further intrigue ahead of the two powerhouse clubs' first meeting in Round 2.
Here, we assess the numbers behind some of the key match-ups that could have a big influence on that encounter, and in the wider context of the season.
Defence: Alanna Kennedy v Steph Catley
City coach Rado Vidosic has his work cut out replacing Kennedy.
The 23-year-old was integral to last season's title triumph, playing 12 matches and slotting seamlessly into a defence that gave up just 15 goals in the regular season.
In Steph Catley, however, he can still call on a supremely classy defender who is just as adept in advanced areas.
The pair have at times teamed up in central roles for the Westfield Matildas, but it's on the left that Catley does her best work.
The dynamic fullback was a go-to outlet for former City boss Patrick Kisnorbo's side, having 237 more touches than Kennedy and impressively creating 15 chances.
Kennedy, as she often does, also made an impression in the front third, heading the opener in a 3-2 victory over Sydney FC in November.
Both class acts at the back, it will be fascinating to see whether either player is inclined to curb their attacking instincts now they are apart.
Midfield: Chloe Logarzo v Tameka Butt
Butt has made a habit of scoring important goals for the Westfield Matildas and it's a trait City will hope continues at her new home.
In Chloe Logarzo, she will come up against an opponent with a similar appetite for scoring.
Indeed, 23-year-old Logarzo - who can also operate as a winger - even outscored Butt in the most recent campaign, notching three goals to one.
The ex-Brisbane Roar ace posted a stronger passing percentage (76 per cent to 68 per cent) while their numbers were almost identical for chances created, with Butt laying on 12 to Logarzo's 11.
Don't be surprised if one of these two delivers the winner in a tight contest.
Attack: Lisa De Vanna v Kyah Simon
Two of the longest serving Westfield Matildas have become invaluable, experienced leaders of their sides.
Simon came out on top last term as she helped City to Grand Final glory, but both enjoyed vintage seasons.
The electrifying De Vanna hit five goals in 10 games and notched three assists for good measure, creating 19 chances overall.
Simon, though less prolific in front of goal, was extremely effective in a slightly withdrawn role.
The 86-cap international produced a quite incredible 42 chances for her City teammates, in addition to four assists and two well-earned goals of her own.
Can the 27-year-old pull the strings in another title run, or will De Vanna and Sydney FC gain revenge in 2018/19?
