NINJAS, typhoons and sashimi were all part of the cultural collision for Matildas stars Elise Kellond-Knight, Clare Polkinghorne and Tameka Butt in their quest to become better football players.

The Brisbane Roar trio will lead their side into Sunday’s round two W-League clash against Sydney FC at the Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre.

They will do so armed with a more cosmopolitan approach and skills sharpened by off-season loan stints in Japan’s Nadeshiko (Division 1) League.

Kellond-Knight and Butt spent the Australian winter playing for Iga FC, whose mascot is the fearsome Kunoichi, meaning female ninja.

Matildas and Roar captain Polkinghorne featured in central defence for the Lionesses of INAC Kobe.

Being forced to play through a typhoon in one match was uncomfortable, but the cultural and skill exchange was a priceless experience.

“It was a huge culture shock,” Butt said.

“They’re very meticulous.”

Polkinghorne’s height made her a prized player in a short-statured league and she became her team’s specialist at handling contested balls in the air.

The difference in style posed significant challenges for midfielder Kellond-Knight and attacker Butt.

“It’s a lot faster tempo,” Kellond-Knight said.

“With that comes the size of the game. They play in a very confined space.

“They’re very technical, tactical, and clever players.”

Sunday’s opponent is a familiar one for the Roar, who have featured in several thrilling battles with the Sky Blues, many of them in finals.

Brisbane are coming off a surprise 2-1 away loss to Perth Glory in round one.