You can understand why Christine Nairn might have needed some convincing to return to W-League home Melbourne Victory.
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Nairn had been lured to Australia for three previous campaigns at Victory only to pick up wooden spoons on her last two visits.
The American midfielder skipped last year's W-League but the call from coach Jeff Hopkins came once more.
"Jeff made it very clear when he called. This year was going to be different," she told AAP.
And it's so far so good, with Victory sitting on top of the table after three rounds, including a defeat of three-time champions Melbourne City on their last outing.
The 28-year-old has returned to Australia with two countrywomen that she also calls housemates in Melbourne.
Nairn, Dani Weatherholt and Sam Johnson have been practically inseparable since arriving for the Victory campaign, and Nairn believes their closeness is driving the side.
"We get along off the field and we're even better on it," she said.
"We're constantly laughing, working out, whatever. It's nice to have people that remind you of home and share your values and life."
But it's not just the American trio that have pushed Victory into the title conversation.
With English striker Natasha Dowie, Matildas Emily Gielnik and Laura Alleway and next-gen Australian hopefuls Grace Maher, Kyra Cooney-Cross and Melindaj Barbieri, hopes are high that Victory can maintain the rage into a first finals campaign in four years.
Next up is another tough test; an away Big Blue against pre-season fancies Sydney FC, a curtain-raiser to an A-League clash at Jubilee Stadium on Sunday.
"We might be the underdogs but I think we surprised Melbourne City and we're ready to keep surprising," Nairn said.
"Making finals is definitely within our grasp.
"Jeff has brought together a great balance of technical, tactical and athletic abilities.
"He needed to show players he was willing to make the changes and the type of players that have brought in has been second to none.
"We've got some high Soccer IQs in there that can break a game down and players that technically do what's required.
"I'm excited to see where this team goes."
Australian Associated Press