Six months, 15 matches, 146 goals. 

Now, after spending much of the season chasing the summit, the Lion City Sailors Women stand on the brink of reclaiming the Women’s Premier League (WPL) title.

Only one hurdle remains: a final-day clash against Hougang United this Saturday (27 June) at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium.

Level on points with second-placed Albirex Jurong, who will simultaneously face Tiong Bahru at Bukit Gombak Stadium, the Sailors know that victory will guarantee them the league crown – due to their commanding 18-goal advantage in goal difference. 

While several members of the squad were part of the club’s historic three-peat title-winning side from 2022 to 2024, for vice-captain Dhaniyah Qasimah and defender Irsalina Irwan, Saturday represents the opportunity to become WPL champions for the very first time.

The journey has been anything but straightforward.

Injuries, setbacks, and the disappointment of losing to Albirex earlier in the campaign tested the squad repeatedly. Yet each challenge has only strengthened the team’s resolve and has left them within touching distance of glory.

For Dhaniyah, who captained the side during the opening weeks of the season while regular skipper Umairah Hamdan was sidelined through injury, the campaign has been one of personal growth.

“It’s been a really rewarding season personally. Stepping into the leadership role when needed was something I took a lot of pride in,” said the 21-year-old.

“It definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me to lead by example, support my teammates and stay composed even in difficult moments.”

Having previously finished fourth, third, and second in the league, Dhaniyah is now just one win away from lifting the elusive trophy.

“This title would mean so much to me. I’ve experienced the disappointment of falling just short before, so finally winning it would be incredibly special, especially after playing in this league for five years,” she said.

“Every challenge I’ve faced this season has shaped me into the player I am today. More importantly, I’m grateful to my teammates and coaches, especially Coach Dan (Daniel Ong), for constantly pushing me to become a better version of myself. But nothing has been achieved yet. We’re ready to give everything to bring the title home.”

Irsalina’s journey has been different, but no less significant. One of the youngest players in the squad, she has steadily established herself this season and now stands on the verge of winning the first league title of her career.

“I’m really excited and, if we do it, I can’t wait to lift the trophy with the team,” said the 19-year-old.

“It would be a very special achievement and something I’ve worked hard for throughout the season. It would be so rewarding to see all that hard work pay off.”

The teenager also revealed the biggest challenge she had to overcome during the campaign.

“I think my biggest challenge was bouncing back mentally after a difficult loss. I felt responsible for the result and it affected my confidence for a while. But with the support of my teammates and coaches, I kept working hard and learned to believe in myself again.”

That resilience has reflected the team’s collective mindset throughout a season that has repeatedly demanded a response.

For Dhaniyah, the defining moment came after the painful defeat to Albirex.

“No one understands how painful that loss to Albirex was, especially because we felt we had dominated the game. We were all devastated, and it would have been easy to lose hope,” she recalled.

“But I’m so grateful that we picked ourselves up, regrouped and stayed focused. We knew the title was still within reach, so we moved forward together.”

Now, with the finish line in sight, both players spoke of their pride in what the squad has accomplished.

“I’m extremely proud of the team,” Irsalina said with a smile. “It’s been a challenging season with injuries, setbacks and difficult moments, but everyone has shown incredible character. We never stopped believing in ourselves and kept working hard every week. To be just one win away from the title is a testament to the effort, commitment, and unity of everyone in this squad.”

Despite the magnitude of Saturday’s occasion, the Sailors are determined to stay composed on the pitch.

“I think it’s natural to feel some nerves because of what’s at stake,” said Dhaniyah. “But we’re confident and ready to put on a good performance after all the work we’ve put in on the training pitch.”

Irsalina echoed those sentiments.

“It’s a mix of excitement and nerves because we know what’s on the line. We want to finish the league strongly, but we also know we can’t underestimate Hougang. We’re staying positive, focusing on our preparation and doing everything we can to earn the three points.”

“We expect Hougang to be well organised. They work hard as a unit and can be difficult to break down. For us, the focus is on our own performance, sticking to the coaches’ game plan, and making sure we do our job on the day.”

Should the Sailors complete the task on Saturday, it would mark a return to the summit of Singapore women’s football and provide fitting reward for a squad that has overcome adversity throughout the campaign.

“It would mean everything to the club,” said Dhaniyah.

“Winning the title would be a testament to the effort, resilience and belief shown by everyone, from the players to the backroom staff.

“It would also make it an extra-special year for the club if both our men’s and women’s teams win their respective league titles. It reflects the club’s commitment to investing in and developing both the men’s and women’s game for the betterment of local football.”

With one final push required, both players had one message for the Sailors faithful.

“A huge thank you for all your support throughout the season,” said Dhaniyah. “Through all the highs and lows, you’ve always been there cheering us on. We hope to make you proud this weekend, so do come down and support us. It means so much to the team.”

Irsalina added: “Thank you for your support throughout the season. Your encouragement has meant so much to us and has helped us through some difficult moments. We can’t wait to see you all on Saturday.”