After opening their 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign with an emphatic victory over Balestier Khalsa, the Lion City Sailors Women will return to the Choa Chu Kang Stadium this Saturday (31 January) for a far sterner test against Still Aerion.

The Sailors’ 16-goal haul last weekend lifted them to the top of the WPL standings after the conclusion of the opening round of fixtures, level on points with Albirex Jurong in second, while Aerion – who beat Geylang International 3-1 in their season opener – are in third.

Despite their morale-boosting win over Balestier, the Sailors know they can ill afford to take their foot off the pedal, having failed to beat Aerion last season in two meetings.

This year’s Aerion side has also been strengthened by the arrival of Pikul Khueanpet, who joins fellow Thai international Sunisa Srangthaisong in the team, and both veterans bring valuable experience from the national setup. The squad is further bolstered by the arrival of Mikayla Simons from Philippines side Stallion Laguna, along with former Sailor Nicole Lim.

With a formidable Aerion side lying in wait, Sailors defender Irsalina Irwan stressed that the team wasted no time in mentally resetting after last weekend’s goal fest. Indeed, their focus has since shifted towards maintaining discipline and game management, which are qualities that she believes will be essential against a more defensively demanding opponent.

“The 16-0 win was a great result for us, but we’ve already shifted our focus to the next game,” said the 19-year-old, who made her WPL bow for the Sailors the last time out. “Against Aerion, it’s about staying focused, disciplined, and ready for a tighter and more defensive battle.

“Aerion are clinical with their long balls. They look to put pressure on the back line quickly, so you always have to be ready and on your toes.”

As a result, organisation and communication at the back have been major talking points in the Sailors’ preparation. Maintaining compactness, dealing with second balls, and ensuring the defensive unit moves as one will be crucial in limiting Aerion’s attacking threat.

That emphasis was echoed by fellow defender Siti Nurerwadah Erwan, who outlined her own focus heading into the contest.

“For me personally, I need to make sure I’m aggressive in the first duels. I have to ensure the Aerion forwards don’t get comfortable receiving the ball between the lines and turning to face our goal,” explained 21-year-old Wadah. 

“Aerion are fluid in possession and will try to break our defensive shape. Communication is key in every game. Trusting my teammates, especially my fellow defenders, will help us stay connected and manage the game well.”

Irsalina shared that view, highlighting the importance of communication in keeping the back line compact and organised, particularly when dealing with long balls and second phases.

Crucially, the Sailors believe the hard lessons learned from last season’s tighter contests have prepared them well for moments like these.

“We have to switch on from the very first minute. If we stay composed, communicate, and follow the game plan, those experiences from last season can really help us handle Aerion’s attacking threat,” added Wadah.

For Irsalina, the defensive objective is clear. A solid showing at the back would not only neutralise Aerion’s strengths, but also set the tone for the Sailors’ season moving forward.

“A clean sheet would mean a lot to us because it reflects our discipline in defending. Getting the win will be a big confidence boost and help us build momentum going forward.”