It was just barely a month ago when Nur Izzati Rosni entered her name into the history books with a dramatic winner against Laos to secure the Lionesses’ first win at the SEA Games since 1985.

Izzati’s goal, which came in the 95th minute of the match, was also the first that the Lionesses had scored since the 1995 edition of the Games.

The Lionesses’ impassioned and jubilant celebrations that followed showed just how much the goal, and victory, meant to the team.

And the player at the centre of it all, Izzati, intends to create more of such memories – both for the Lionesses, as well as her club side, the Lion City Sailors.

_{Credit: Sport Singapore/Dyan Tjhia}

The Sailors’ women make their Singapore Women’s Premier League (WPL) debut on Sunday (5 June) against Albirex Niigata (S) at the Yishun Stadium.  

“I’m overjoyed that I was able to score the winner, and that I was able to help Singapore to its first SEA Games victory in nearly 37 years,” said Izzati. “I didn’t know it then, but that goal meant that I’m the fourth player to ever score for the Lionesses at the SEA Games, which is a huge honour for me, and makes me really happy.

“This historic achievement has inspired me to keep working hard, and to make runs into good positions so I can score more goals in future matches, be it for the national team or for the Sailors.”

But Izzati’s SEA Games experience was more than just about that historic night. The 23-year-old also gained valuable exposure against regional opponents, and saw first-hand what it takes to play at the international level. 

“I’ve learnt a lot about trust and discipline during our SEA Games campaign,” Izzati explained. “It is important for us to adopt and follow our coach’s game plans closely, no matter what they are. More importantly, we have to make certain that the team never gives up, and that we continue to cover for one another until the final whistle. 

“These are just some of the lessons that I will take with me as I prepare myself for the upcoming WPL season with the Sailors.”

With the Sailors winning the Singapore Premier League (SPL) last year, Izzati is determined to achieve the same level of success in the WPL this season.

“The club’s goal is to be the best in Singapore by winning trophies, and implementing a certain style of play. So it is a true honour to be able to represent the Sailors in the WPL, and it motivates me to work harder and give it my all to bring success to the women’s team,” said Izzati.

The Sailors’ opposition on Sunday, Albirex, lost their opening game 2-1 to Tanjong Pagar last weekend, but Izzati is certain the Jurong-based outfit will not be easy opponents, and urged her team to remain switched on throughout the 90 minutes.

“Albirex have a few seasoned players who are very good defensively,” said Izzati. “But we are confident that we will be able to hold our own against them. All of us are excited for the game, and we can’t wait to play competitive local football again after such a long time. 

“But for now, we are just focused on one game at a time, and we will do our best to get the three points against Albirex.”