The 2023 Women's A League began with perhaps its greatest intrigue in a decade. After the champions stumbled early, the standings remain complicated after the first cycle. Lithuania's only representative in the – UEFA Champions League, Gintra currently sit second. They dropped early points against both Vilnius clubs, who are pursuing the defending champions.
Ahead of the second cycle and this weekend's intriguing MFA Žalgiris-MRU meeting, captain and long-serving Lithuania defender Algimantė Mikutaitė assessed the situation.
– The first cycle is complete. After a difficult start, the team recovered. What caused the initial problems?
– There isn't one reason, but finishing chances was the main issue. In football, without goals – there are no victories. We gradually improved but must keep working consistently on this. Opponents also always bring twice the energy against us.
– Did you discuss the two opening draws in the dressing room? Did you initiate it as captain?
– The results satisfied neither management, coaches nor players. Naturally we discussed what to change and what was missing. We listened and drew conclusions. We also spoke among players, but those conversations should stay in our dressing room.
– Scoring seems to release the team and improve its play. Is there a psychological barrier before the first goal?
– We must arrive ready and play freely from the first minute. Improving only after scoring is unacceptable. It may be a psychological effect of our difficult start, but we must solve it. The next phase won't be easier, and pressure may increase.
A. Mikutaitė pripažįsta, kad sustiprėjusioje moterų A lygoje lengvų pasivaikščiojimų nebereikia tikėtis
– The second cycle begins with a vital match at MFA Žalgiris-MRU. What lessons will you bring?
– It will be interesting and intriguing, and I'm sure they're preparing seriously too. To return with three points, we must be much more dangerous in finishing, fully focused and compact defensively.
– Is 2023 the most competitive season in a decade?
– Certainly. Squad standards are closer; most teams have internationals, and young players have improved enough to compete with seniors. Many clubs now have foreign players, previously mainly our team. Most importantly, Lithuanian players stay together for years and improve. Someone who struggled five years ago now has A League experience. Teams retaining their core can progress positively.
– You're the most experienced player. Does it feel strange to advise youngsters after recently taking advice yourself?
– Quite often. But young people change and see things differently, so we must also view situations through their eyes. That's how we find connection and understanding.
– What is the key to defending the A League and Baltic League titles and succeeding in Europe?
– More cohesive play and sharper attacking. Possession and reliable defending aren't enough. Winning requires goals, and often one isn't enough.
This Sunday, 27 May, Gintra visit current leaders MFA Žalgiris-MRU in Vilnius. Kick-off is at 12:30. Watch live on FIFA+ through this link.