Cap shortage on Canberra United's agenda for end of W-League season review

Canberra United will play its final game of the season against Brisbane Roar on Sunday, which doubles as coach Heather Garriock's last in charge after three years.

Garriock's impending departure is set to trigger a wide-ranging review of the team, which hasn't played finals since 2016.

W-League clubs are allowed to spend $450,000 on player wages per season. It's believed Canberra spent $375,000 on contracted players this year, excluding living costs, flights and accommodation.

Top teams in the competition have been able to lure Australia's best players as A-League clubs begin to see the value in women's competition success.

The Western Sydney Wanderers have gone from dungeon dwellers to title contenders within twelve months after putting more money in player acquisition.

Melbourne City is another team who have increased their investment, which has helped them recruit former Canberra defender Ellie Carpenter, Lydia Williams, Steph Catley, Emily van Egmond, Kyah Simon, Aivi Luik, New Zealander Rebekah Scott and Japanese midfielder Yukari Kinga.

A star-studded City outfit claimed the 2019-20 Premiers Plate after continuing their unbeaten run with a 4-0 win over Western Sydney on Thursday night.

Canberra's bid for an A-League licence says it will include the women's team as part of its plan which could change the way the money is spent.

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The minimum wage for players on a full contract is $16,344, so most of United's 23-player squad would be earning close to this figure. Goalkeeper Sally James, Hayley Taylor-Young and Rachael Goldstein signed amateur contracts, while Aoife Colvill has a scholarship.

Capital Football boss Phil Brown says the organisation needs to be mindful of the changing environment in which United compete, but doesn't see them at a disadvantage to their W-League rivals.

"While the investment has increased across the board in all clubs recently, there's no reason to suggest we won't be competitive moving forward," Brown said.

"We're a strong club with a proud history and we're looking forward to engaging with a new coach, reviewing the program and getting a fresh start going into next season."

United has failed to make the finals in Garriock's three-year reign, leading to Capital Football's decision to not renew her contract beyond this season.

The outgoing coach believes more investment is needed if the club wants to be a top-four contender and says they've set a good foundation for next season.

"There's a lot more Canberra United needs to do, not just replacing the coach," Garriock said. "Investment is crucial in the W-league. I've tinkered around with youth development and blooding players.

"I think Canberra United is in a really good space coming into next season because a lot of Matildas are going to be going overseas and we've got eight or nine Canberra-based players. So, that's exciting in itself.

"It would be great to see a local coach coming into this job. That way they can develop and help the next generation as well."

W-LEAGUE ROUND 13

Sunday: Canberra United v Brisbane Roar at Brisbane, 5.30pm.