Foord scores and Wheeler dominates in Matildas win

By Kieran Yap 9/6/26

Above: Caitlin Foord (left) and Sam Kerr. Photo: Football Australia.

Some fortuitous goals and an improved second half have given The Matildas a 3-1 win over Mexico in the second game of this international window. Goals to Alanna Kennedy, Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord in her 150th appearance secured the result in Sydney.

Australia coach Joe Montemurro named a slightly altered side to try and improve on Saturday’s loss. In that game, The Matildas were apprehensive in midfield and predictable in attack. Clare Wheeler started in an effort to inject some pace and mobility to the midfield, while Hayley Raso started on the right flank.

The first half could be politely described as chaotic. If there was a plan, neither side looked sure of it. But Australia opened the scoring when Kennedy’s close range, scuffed effort on the turn deflected off a defender and into the net.

The elation was short lived though. Mexico equalized through Diana Ordoñez just four minute later. Australia’s attempt to play out from deep in defence backfired, Mexico created the turnover and made the home side pay.

The Matildas looked at their best when they played at pace and especially when Ellie Carpenter was given room to run. Ideally more of the Australian game plan should revolve around the Chelsea fullback. When she gets into the final third she can be damaging and when she is on her way there, she can be hard to stop.

Carpenter’s burst forward and cross helped give Australia the lead again. Kerr’s technique and a slice of luck did the rest. Her low volley crashed against the post, but bounced back off Mexican goalkeeper Esthefanny Barreras and over the line.

Things settled in the second half and Australia found their groove. The midfield looked more fluid, Wheeler began to control the game and when Australia attacked, they did so with purpose.

Caitlin Foord’s goal was The Matildas at their best. Kaitlyn Torpey exploded through midfield and played the harder pass between two defenders as Foord ran in from the outside. Her shirt was visibly pulled and she momentarily appealed for a penalty, but in the end took care of the issue herself by cutting back inside and beating the goalkeeper.

That ended the scoring, but not the action. Leticia McKenna, Holly McNamara, Alana Murphy and Jamilla Rankin entered the field. Minutes were limited. But they took their chances to show why many fans are clamoring for them to have more.

McNamara looked dangerous with the ball at her feet, and looks more comfortable with each international cap. This was one of the first times we have seen her run at defenders like she does in the A-League Women.

Murphy and McKenna looked at home in the midfield and both looked to move the ball forward at every opportunity. They did enough to hopefully apply some pressure for midfield spots. Ideally, at 3-1 up, the national team could have benefitted from giving these players more minutes, more time to make mistakes, recover from them and to show what they can really do.

Charlize Rule also made what is becoming a routine appearance in the Green and Gold, and she is starting to look like an ideal option at centre back. Rule is tall, fast, strong in the air, and can play a confident pass.

The most crucial player for The Matildas in this game was Wheeler. The Everton star always wants the ball, and seems to know where she is playing it before it reaches her. Wheeler passes, then immediately moves to receive. It sounds simple, but it was missing in the first game of this window. She opens up space for her teammates, in particular Kennedy who was able to charge forward on a few occasions. Wheeler is also able to do the gritty defensive work and covers ground in a similar style to Aivi Luik at her peak.

Clare Wheeler is simply everywhere you need her to be, and made a huge difference for Australia in this game. The fact that she is rarely seen as the first option remains a frustrating mystery to many Matildas fans. Surely she needs to start no matter who else makes up that midfield.

This is the last window for around four months, and the 2027 World Cup is approaching fast. There is a lot of work to be done, and plenty of improvement needed. But this was a win and a much better second half performance.

TEAMS: AUSTRALIA (4-3-3): Arnold, Carpenter, Heatley, Catley, Torpey, Kennedy, Wheeler, Fowler, Raso, Kerr, Foord. Substitutes: Rule, McKenna, McNamara, Murphy, Siemsen, Rankin, Melegh, Nevin, van Egmond, Sayer, Gomez.

Goals: Kennedy 22′ Kerr 36′ Caitlin Foord 70′

MEXICO (4-2-3-1): Barreras, Hernandez, Rodriguez, Espinoza, Reyes, R Bernal, Delgado, Saldivar, Nieto, Casarez, Ordoñez. Substitutes: Robles, Soto, Palacios, Corral, Sanchez, Servin, Felix, Velasco, K Bernal, Antonio, Nicosia, Guitierrez.

Goals: Ordoñez 26’

Referee: TBC

Attendance: 18441

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Wiegman and Hemp preview ultimate final qualifying test

By Chloe Reynolds (9/6/26)

Above: Sarina Wiegman (left) and Lauren Hemp (right) speaking to the media ahead of tonight’s clash between England and Ukraine. Photo: England Football.

England Head coach Sarina Wiegman and senior player Lauren Hemp spoke to the media yesterday ahead of tonight’s clash against Ukraine at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool.

Wiegman has confirmed that changes will be made to the side from the one that lost to World Champions Spain last Friday. “It’s a qualifier, so there are some technical decisions to make because we expect different challenges tomorrow. And yes, I will make some changes” Weigman said.

England are going into tonight’s game knowing that they need a better result than Spain if they want the top spot in their UEFA World Cup qualification group and as such automatically qualify for the World Cup in Brazil next year. If they can’t, they will have to try and qualify via a two legged play off.

Wiegman spoke about the defeat against the World Champions, saying that “of course it was a difficult Friday night that hurt, but we’ve moved on too because we have another game. There was good energy in the team, the team stuck together and we really want to show that.

“It’s really easy when things go well that everyone sticks together and we have conversations. But at moments when you’re having a setback like this, then we really see who we are.”

Hemp also said that tomorrow night’s game will be for the fans, and she hopes that the Lionesses can bounce back and put on a show for the fans.

“I think it’s the mentality of the group and obviously coming off the beat like that, it’s easy to get your heads down, but I think that’s what’s great about this group. We got round each other and yeah, we’ve been training really well. several focusses on tomorrow and putting in a good, relentless performance against Ukraine” Hemp said.

She also said that the team has “obviously looked at their strengths and weaknesses and where we want to exploit so yeah, it’s important that we go out and do that and put on a show for the fans.”

Wiegman has revealed that despite being bottom of the table, this Ukraine side should not be underestimated.

“What we control is our game and it would be really nice for us to get an early goal, and we want to be on the ball a lot” Wiegman said.

“Ukraine, although they haven’t got a point in this campaign yet, but they are improving again.”

England’s automatic World Cup qualification hopes are not completely in their own hands, and as such Weigman confirmed that they will have a member of staff keeping an eye on the clash between Spain and Iceland also happening tonight.

“We have someone there, so we will know,” she explained.

“We’re not planning on sharing that with players. We know what to do. We have to win this game and that’s what we’re going after.”

Hemp added “We’ve all stuck around each other and lifted each other up. That first night, it was very hard for me to get some sleep and for the rest of the girls, as soon as we review the game, it’s then important to look forward on to the next.

“We didn’t play how we wanted to. We didn’t execute the game plan like we should have. For us as players, the thing we love doing is getting back out on the pitch and improving ourselves as a group.”

Liverpool has always been a huge footballing city, but this is the first time that the Lionesses will not only be playing in the city but at the brand new Hill Dickinson Stadium, home of Everton.

Wiegman said that she’s excited to be heading to the stadium.

“I’m really looking forward to it. And to go around the country is really nice, but then playing in this new stadium, … I feel excited and I’m grateful that we can play here” she said.

Hemp added “it’s fantastic. I’ve heard that the stadium is unbelievable and it’s so nice that we’re able to go and play in different stadiums across the whole of the UK.

“I think it’s so important for us to interact with all the fans, and I’ve seen that it’s hopefully getting quite a few fans there. So yeah, I can’t wait to go.”

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Caitlin Foord eyes 150th appearance as Matildas continue “learning process” 

Above: Caitlin Foord and Joe Montemurro speak to the media at the MD-1 press conference. Image: Genevieve Henry for Impetus Football.

By Genevieve Henry (6/8/2026)

Matildas forward Caitlin Foord is set to make her 150th appearance in the green and gold as Australia hosts Mexico in Sydney for game two of the friendly series. Foord and head coach Joe Montemurro spoke to the media after MD-1 training.

Mexico stunned Australia with a late winner in Newcastle Saturday night in a game where the Matildas lacked a clinical edge despite dominating with 61% possession and 19 shots.

“When we dominate as much as we did in that game, with possession, we want an end product,” Foord said. “In the final third, the last pass, the last touch to have a shot just got away from us…we want to be better at that and create more goalscoring opportunities.”

While the loss is not the result Montemurro was searching for, he emphasized that Mexico was chosen as the opponent for a reason and they delivered with their tactics and aggression.

“These games are all about different styles, different ideas,” Montemurro said. “In my whole career, I’ve probably seen two teams that lift their fullbacks so high, so aggressively. They’re teams that have five or six up top and they go long — I haven’t seen it for a long, long time, and the players haven’t seen it for a long time.”

Above: Foord attacks down the wing against Mexico in Newcastle June 6. Image: Genevieve Henry for Impetus Football.

Montemurro said the momentum shift in the latter part of the first half gave Australia trouble as Mexico’s style of play became more direct. While the Matildas’ undoing was in their lack of finishing and meaningful chances, Mexico’s  play set them up to win it in the dying moments.

“We had to study it, we had to analyze it, not get emotional about it and understand that it is a learning process,” Montemurro said. 

Australia will have another chance to thwart Mexico in Sydney, who will enter tomorrow’s game on a ten-game winning streak. Foord will look to be a part of a more effective attacking line and put her name on the scoresheet in her milestone game.

Since Foord’s debut in 2011, the forward has become one of the most recognizable names in world football and earned a myriad of accolades and honors, including Best Young Player at the FIFA Women’s World Cup just a few months after making her debut.

Foord recollected her debut where former Matilda Heather Garriock was honored for reaching an appearance milestone. 

“I remember having that moment and thinking that’s what I want to do,” Foord said. “So to be sitting here now so far on, it’s special to think that I have gone and done that.”

Above: Foord in MD-1 training on June 8. Image: Genevieve Henry for Impetus Football.

“The first time you put on a Matildas jersey you don’t know how many times you’re gonna get that opportunity,” Foord said. “To put it on for 150 times tomorrow, that’s a massive honor. You want to play as much as you can for your country and give everything, so it will be a special moment for me and my family. To take the field so many times with the girls that I’ve had along the way…it’s something I’m very proud of.”

Foord still has her eyes on a major trophy and has spent her career battling it out, getting near on multiple occasions.

“We want to do something special — I know we’ve done a lot of special stuff — but for us, it’s to win something.” Foord said, “We’ve come close a few times now and that goal is still there and to achieve that with this group of girls would be special.”

Australia hosts Mexico at 7 AEST in Sydney tomorrow. 

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Late Mexico goal defeats Matildas in friendly

Australia 0-1 Mexico

By Kieran Yap 6/6/26

Above: Diana Ordoñez. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

A Diana Ordoñez goal secured Mexico a 1-0 win over Australia at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.

Matildas coach Joe Montemurro named a strong starting lineup in the first of the two-game series. Ellie Carpenter captained the side in her 100th cap. Emily Van Egmond, Alanna Kennedy and Amy Sayer made up an unfamiliar looking midfield. Winonah Heatley and Steph Catley combined in central defence with Kaitlyn Torpey starting at left back.

The attacking trio of Caitlin Foord, Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler showed some early promise. Foord’s trademark long run through the middle of the park brought the crowd to life, but Mexico’s deep-sitting defence made shots on goal a rarity.

The visitors were content to try and catch the Matildas on the counter attack, but neither team had much luck in the first half.

Australia’s most promising move came when Van Egmond’s pass put Carpenter in behind the defenders. Her eventual cross was too close to goal and Mexico were able to clear.

The match opened up more after the break. Haley Raso’s introduction added a more direct threat to the Aussie attack and her cross was nearly turned in my a Sam Kerr backheel.

Foord continued to test Mexico but often found herself outnumbered on the wing. Australia’s plan continues to focus on cutbacks to the goal-face as opposed to shots from the edge of the box. When it works it creates great opportunities, but well-structured defences can deter these attacks as Mexico did on the night’s

Australia’s midfield was in control for the majority of the match but played fairly safe football in the first half. Alex Chidiac’s arrival on the pitch added an urgency on the ball and some spark in the central areas that forced Mexico’s defenders into making decisions.

The match looked destined to end in a scoreless draw, but Mexico had the last chance of the evening and made the most of it. A rapid counterattack drew all four Matildas defenders to the ball leaving Ordoñez free at the back post.

Her composed finish gave Mexico the 92nd lead and left Australia with too little time to respond.

The Matildas will aim for a better result on Tuesday night in Sydney.

Lineup: Australia: Arnold, Carpenter, Heatley, Catley, Torpey, Kennedy, Van Egmond, Sayer, Fowler, Kerr, Foord. Substitutes: Raso, Rule, Nevin, Chidiac, Melegh, Lincoln, Rankin, Gomez, Wheeler, McKenna, McNamara, Murphy, Siemsen.

Mexico: Barreres, Reyes, Espinosa, Rodriguez, Hernandez, R Bernal, Delgado, Sanchez, Antonio, Saldivar, Palacios. Substitutes: Soto, Ordoñez, Corral, Gutiérrez, Nieto, Velasco, Felix, Robles, K Bernal, Servin, Casarez, Nicosia.

Goal: Ordoñez 90+2

Referee: TBC

Attendance : TBC

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NPLW Vic R15:  Essendon climb to first, Bulleen rescue a point & Hussein stars for Victory

By Kieran Yap 3/6/26

Above: Leyla Hussein. Photo: Passion Creations

It was a highly competitive weekend of football in the Victorian NPLW. Bulleen Lions and Avondale FC played out an instant classic, Melbourne Victory won against Heidelberg and Essendon jumped into first place.

Friday night saw Box Hill United host Bentleigh Greens with the visitors boasting some new faces and another improved performance. Emma Robers, Kiera Meyers and Melissa Barbieri have joined to help The Greens climb out of the relegation zone and it took some incredible goals from Box Hill to settle this game.

The damage was done early by the reigning champions. Rhianna Pollicina scored a brilliant curler in the 12th minute, and two equisite finishes from Carina Rossi made it 3-0 before the break.

Box Hill looked to be in cruise control, but Bentleigh fought back in the second half, and wrestled back some momentum. A heavy knock to Rossi helped the visitors cause, but Meyers’ pinpoint cross for Candela Ferreyra-Bas delivered a goal to bring them back into the contest on the 66th minute.

Box Hill managed the game well to secure the 3-1 win but they would have expected more from this game. The floodgates never opened the way that they have for teams playing Bentleigh on other occasions this season, and combined with their two goal loss against South Melbourne it looks like Bentleigh are a much improved outfit. Box Hill were also missing the injured Erin Keyt, who surely would have made an impact, but the three points were important, to keep touch with Bulleen and Essendon at the summit.

Across town, Spring Hills FC and Melbourne City faced off in an entertaining 1-1 draw.

Aurbie Labno conceded an early own goal after some sustained pressure from City and gave the visitors a 1-0 lead. She would make amends in the 34th minute with a brave, diving back post header to level the scores.

Neither side could find a winner, but both teams attacked until the end. Maia Capitanio and Chelsea Biggs were proactive and energetic for City, while Isabella Arredondo was a standout on the flank for Spring Hills.

Both goalkeepers were in strong form with Dali Gorr Burchmore showing why she is viewed as a future Matilda with her best performance of the season.

The result does not help either team on the ladder, but both should be encouraged by the performance. Some more polish in front of goal and the scoreline could easily have been very different.

Saturday saw Alamein FC defeat  the visiting Keilor Park SC  3-0.

The scoreline made the win look more comfortable than it was, and for much of this match it was a fairly even, arm wrestle of a game.

Alamein looked the most likely to score, Summer Laskey’s shot from distance looked dangerous off the boot, but missed the target.

There were five yellow cards in a combative contest, but things began to open up more in the second half. Emma Runnalls opened the scoring in the 48th minute, and Miranda Templeman was impassable in goal for the home side.

The game remained on a knife edge until the 89th minute when Runnalls turned supplier, playing in Neve Duston to give them a valuable two-goal cushion.

Alamein’s pressure did not let up even with the result secured and a turnover deep in defence was ruthlessly punished with a first time shot from Jordyn Toms-Wedge to make it 3-0 at the final whistle.

A Tyla Jay Vlajnic inspired South Melbourne won their game against Preston Lions 3-0 at Lakeside stadium.

 The Serbian international won the ball in attack and weaved beyond the last defender to finish from close range in the eighth minute and an Emily Roach rocket from the edge of the box made it 2-0 in the second half.

Vlajnic’s cross in the 69th minute provided Francesca Iermano all the opportunity that she needed to score the third and there was no way back for Preston from there.

Former Heidelberg sharpshooter Ji Youn Seo started for the home side after signing midweek, but Preston fans were forced to wait to see Aimee Medwin and Sian Dewey take the field as Lionesses.

South Melbourne flexed their depth in the second half. Clancy Westaway, Heidi Dalton, and Raquel Deralas all entered the game. Young winger Alexis Panatazopoulos shone in the 20 minutes she was given. She showcased her explosive pace and confident passing range in a memorable appearance on the left.

The win put South up to fourth on the ladder, but closing in on the top two. Next up they face Heidelberg United who are coming off a 1-0 loss at home to Melbourne Victory.

The only goal of this game was scored early. Jasmine Millar confidently dispatched a penalty kick in the 17th minute after Mia Bailey fouled Alice Francou in the penalty box.

Millar was outstanding in this game. At only 17 years of age, she looked like as senior centre forward, and her growing consistency in front of goal will have impressed the club. This was her eight goal of the season.

Heidelberg United goalkeeper Bailey put in another strong performance and pulled off multiple save of the week contenders. But Heidelberg struggled to find options in midfield as Victory swarmed their creative players in the central areas.

The only downside to this win by Victory is a potential injury to Mila Bulic. The in-form fullback was subbed out early, and although Victory were able to continue on without her, she will be missed by  this side when they face Avondale FC next weekend.

Avondale FC went to the Veneto Club to face top of the table Bulleen Lions in what turned out to be one of the best games of the season, although both teams might wish it wasn’t.

Bulleen started brightest. The home side attacked early and often, looking to make amends for an early season loss to the visitors in Round Two. However, those early chances were not converted and Avondale made the most of their first good chance when Sloane Young played a lofted pass through the Bulleen defence. Sidney Allen arrived right on time to finish and make it 1-0.

Olivia Bomford equalised for the hosts with a brilliant diagonal solo run, using a quick step over to create a little bit of space and making no mistake with the finish. The first half ended 1-1.

Both sides have real depth on the bench, but Bulleen had the last two Gold Medal winners in reserve. Maja Markovsi and Danella Butrus took to the field in the second half, later to be joined by Alana Cortellino and Nia Salleh.

Young restored Avondale’s lead with another exceptional run from the wing. While most were expecting a cross or cut back, she snuck the ball beyond Alyssa Dall Oste to make it 2-1 in the 59th minute.

Avondale might have been confident of a crucial win when Hannah Wilkinson made it 3-1 in the 77th minute but Bulleen would not accept defeat at home.

Emily Bunnell forced the ball home following a goal mouth scramble to pull one back with less than five minute of regular time to play.

With time becoming the enemy, Bulleen maintained composure, and increased their speed on play to score an equaliser with almost the last touch of the day.

Butrus surged down the wing and cross for the waiting Markovski and Tiffany Eliadis. Markovski got the final touch to secure a dramatic late winner.

Bulleen would obviously have preferred the win, but to come back from what looked like a doomed position so late against a side packed with quality could give them a huge mental boost as every point and goal becomes important in this season.

It was two points lost by an otherwise impressive Avondale, but they will be confident of a response, especially with the likes of Aideen Keane joining the squad.

Sunday’s only game saw Essendon Royals defeat Boroondara Eagles 4-0.

Similarly to Alamein’s win the day before, most of the damage was done in the second half, but Isabella Sewards’ classy goal in the 15th minute put the visiting Royals in a winning position they never looked like giving up.

Sewards ran onto a flick on into the box and lifted the ball over Mia Mossman for her fifth goal this season.

Some quick feet from Kelli McGroarty delivered an eventual second in the 80th minute. The American striker turned on a loose ball and shot immediately after swiveling into space to seal the result for the visitors.

McGroarty’s header put the ball into the path of Bronte Peel and the Essendon forward lashed the ball home for their third in the 87th.

Essendon continued to attack until the final minutes. Alessia Bresciano followed up well to take advantage of a goalkeeping fumble and give Essendon the goal difference boost they needed to climb into first position on the table.

In Appreciation of Leyla Hussein.

Heidelberg versus Melbourne Victory was the lowest scoring game of the round, but it was one of the most entertaining. A big reason for that was Victory forward and Junior Matilda Leyla Hussein.

The 17 year old playmaker has been in strong form over the past two rounds. She was Victory’s most dangerous outlet in the loss to Bulleen and their most creative force in the 1-0 win at Heidelberg.

Hussein has a bag of tricks, but is not a showboat. She knows when to use them to create space or maintain possession and more importantly, she knows when to release the ball.

Her run through the middle almost carried her the lenght of the pitch, and the final pass to Anika Dovaston was perfectly timed and weighted to create Victory’s best chance up to that point. She showed impressive poise and explosive acceleration in that counterattack. In other passages of play, she displayed quick feet and decisive passing in her best game of this season.

Hussein is an entertaining player who has the end product to match her imagination on the ball. Right now, she is more astute at providing the final pass or even the assist for the assist than she is at finishing herself. But she is adding that cutting edge in front of goal to her game. It took Mia Bailey’s best in goal for Heidelberg to deny Hussein at least one goal.

Leyla Hussein still has a long way to go until she reaches her full potential, but is already a incredibly exciting prospect for Australian football, and the Round 15 win was a great example of what she is capable of.

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“It’ll shape up to be a fantastic watch”

by Chloe Reynolds (29/5/26)

Above: Dario Vidosic preparing his team for the FA Cup Final against Manchester City. Photo: BHAFA Women on X

Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Dario Vidosic spoke to the media ahead of Brighton’s trip to Wembley. This is the first time that Brighton and Hove Albion will be in the FA cup final, they beat Liverpool in dramatic fashion in the semi-final.

Vidosic confirmed that there are no new fresh injury concerns ahead of the final; “Everyone else is trained well and have been, you know, right at it, so we get to go into Wembley with basically a full compliment”

23-year-old Maise Symonds will be leading the team out on Sunday, and despite being so young has captained this Brighton side all season and Vidosic has nothing but praise for the youngster. “It speaks volumes about Mais (Maise Symonds), I think, even when I first met her, for quite a young player, she was very, very mature. I knew, I said immediately, she will be the captain. So, she naturally always had that presence, that feeling within the group that she, you know, even at a young age, she understands the moments, what’s required, and she’s learning as well.

“So, we have to, we also can’t forget she’s played 100 games for the club already. You know, 100 games is a great achievement. But to do it at such a young age, and to play such a pivotal role as well, just speaks volumes about her as a footballer, and also as a character.

“So, we’re all really proud that she’ll be the one to lead us out, and I think I need to walk in front, but if I could, I’d let her walk in front because she deserves to be at the front to lead this club out at Wembley. But, I mean, I know the girls will all be right behind us. She’ll be there as well, and, you know, we’re looking forward to that”

Vidosic also reflected on the tough season, especially the first half;  “You know, not to take anything away from the first half of the season. I thought there were large periods where we were quite good. We had to adapt a lot due to injuries; we weren’t really able to field the same 11 in consecutive weeks. I think I don’t know once in that in that 1st period.

“So, that made things a little bit tougher. But, you know, we were always there. The squad was always there. They were fighting, results would just slip away or a few little moments would make it a little bit tougher, but, you know, I think the whole season bar, I think maybe one game with Chelsea. I’ve been very, very proud of them in, you know, they’ve risen to every challenge. They’ve accepted every challenge head on, and in the second part, once the cup did begin, we spoke about that and we always do about that chance to make history.

“We were unable to on the final day of the of the season to become the best team in terms of points tally for the club. I thought we were again close. But, you know, this is another opportunity for us to be that, to bring that major trophy back, for the fans, for the club, for the, for the team. We’re looking forward now to this, to this game on Sunday.

It’s also been a tough season personally for Vidosic, who lost his father Rado at the start of the year and he reflected on what he thought his father would make of them making it to this historic final and the lessons he learned from him;  “I always think about that every day and those quiet moments and sometimes those crazier moments where it just sort of sometimes will hit you, sometimes it’s good memories, sometimes it’s not so good memories not that long ago, but, you know, I try to carry everything he’s taught me in life and how he, worked and, you know, I took some, you know, a lot of lessons.

“I am the person I am today because of my father and my mother, but especially with dad in football sense. I wanted to be like him when he was a player, and I was playing on the backfields as a junior running around, following him everywhere, and it was a similar thing when he was a coach, I was wanting to follow in those footsteps as well. So, I know he’ll be there. I know he’ll be watching, he won’t miss. He won’t miss that game, and hopefully, we can, again, make him proud from above.

The Australian coach ended with that he wants to play the Brighton way and for his players to go out and have fun; “We want to go there. We want to be, we want to be us. I think that’s the most important thing, just, there’s no pressure that we need to do something different. We need to do that. You know, what got us there will help us to play this game and help us to achieve what we’re setting out to achieve. We know we’ve got a very tough opponent in front of us. We know that we’re going to have to play a very good game in every single phase. We know we’ve got players; they have players that can turn a game very, very quickly with the individual quality that they have. But we know we also possess some weapons and how we are as a unit, as a team, that we can also cause a lot of problems. So, you know, it shapes up, I think it’s two excellent teams that are now facing off in the final and for the fans of both sets and for the neutral, it’ll shape up to be a fantastic watch.”

The FA Cup final will take place between Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion on May 31 at Wembley Stadium. Kick of is at 3pm

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“We have confidence and we have belief in the team”

By Chloe Reynolds (29/5/26)

Above: Fran Kirby preparing for the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Photo: BHAFCWomen on X

Brighton & Hove Albion forward Fran Kirby spoke to the media ahead of the FA cup final. Kirby is no stranger to the FA Cup having won it with Chelsea on four occasions (2014/15, 2017/18, 2021/22 and the 22/23 season), and she spoke about how excited she is to be heading back to Wembley stadium.

“I mean, I always hoped that I would have an opportunity to play at Wembley again. Of course, every footballer wants to play in an FA cup final when you’ve grown up in this country. You know how prestigious the trophy is to win.

“I think, you know, when you move to a club like Brighton, who historically have never been an FA Cup final, you hope that maybe one day you’d get there, but, you know, I spoke to the girls about it and I said, “you know, I never thought that I would be able to have a chance to play at Wembley again.”  

“I’m really excited for it and I’m really happy for the for the girls who maybe haven’t experienced it because it’s such an amazing day and I’m happier for them probably than I am for myself that they’re going to get a chance to play an FA Cup final.”

Brighton are going into this game as the underdogs and Kirby expressed what she feels the seagulls need to do; “not under any illusion going into an FA Cup final. I think everyone playing at this level has pressure. So, I don’t think, we are under less pressure than Manchester City because they are the champions of England. We can’t you know we can’t not.

“But we also know what we are capable of as a team and we have confidence and we have belief in the team. We know it’s going to be a really tough day, they (Manchester City) are probably more than likely going to dominate possession, but what can we do to counteract that? What can we do to use our strengths? So, you know, of course, there’s pressure for both teams going in.

“I think it’s just one team has the pressure just because of certain situations, but of course, with them being the champions of England, there’s going to be a high end pressure on them and hopefully one, you know, that we can take advantage of.”

Kirby also shared how her routine has changed when it comes to preparing ahead of major games like this; “I wouldn’t say it’s changed. I’m quite a chilled person to be honest, so I like to go into games just the same. Relaxing throughout the week, training hard, being prepared. See, I like to be prepared. I like to know the game plan. I like to know what my role is in that. I like to know what other people’s roles are in that so I can help them if something happens.

“I’m very switched on from a football side, but I think away from it, I like to relax. I like to switch off. Like to not think about it. But yeah, I would say I’m quite chilled, probably compared to a lot of people who like to have things kind of structured and really intense, so yeah, I’ve probably been the same since my first FA Cup game.!

Kirby also shared her message to the fans ahead of this historic final and what hearing the chants means; “We want to hear you. We want you to be loud. We want to see as many Brighton fans as we can there. They’ve been absolutely incredible this season, home and away. Their support has been amazing and hopefully, you know, they can cheer for us as loud as they can one last time this season and hopefully, we can be celebrating at the end together, I like to hear it.

“Obviously, a lot of the time to be fair. I  hear a lot, even if there’s a fan standing literally 2 yards away from me. I’m so focussed on the game. I probably won’t hear you, you’re running with the ball, when you’re in, when you’re going forward, then you feel it and you can feel kind of like the heartbeats getting faster and faster. So, in their moments, I like to hear it. But when I’m focussing on, you know, a set piece or a throw in or whatever, then I don’t really hear it, but it definitely helps. It definitely helps and there’s some players who will be a lot different to me who will need it. They’ll need that fit that hearing from the crowd and the cheers. So, I think just keep doing whatever you can to be behind the girls and support them.”

The Women’s FA semi-final between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester City takes place on Sunday 23rd May at Wembley Stadium with kick off commencing at 3pm.

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NPLW VIC R14: A Royal statement

By Kieran Yap 27/6/26

Above: Maggie Jenkins. Photo: Essendon Royals.

A top of the table clash did not go as expected, Preston Lions are quietly in-form, Keilor get an important win and Bulleen go clear in first.

Round 14 of Victoria’s NPLW kicked off on Friday night when Preston Lions defeated Heidelberg United 2-0. The home side started their new signing Fiorina Iaria in attack. The  winger arrives from Melbourne Victory as one of the state’s in-form players and had a strong debut for Preston.

It took around a minute for the home side to take the lead. A short corner routine did not go exactly as planned, but the ball eventually fell to Valentine Pursey who’s volley from close range left Mia Bailey with little chance.

Pursey turned supplier in the second half. Some strong work on the right wing created space for the shot and Hollie Massey arrived to force the ball home at the near post.

The scoreline accurately reflected a strong performance from the improving Preston Lions. The game was on their terms for much of the evening, and their press made life difficult for Heidelberg to gain any momentum.

Iaria looks to have adjusted instantly to new colors and teammates. She was lively and creative on the wings, she was a menace throughout, but Pursey was the standout performer of this match with a goal and an assist to her name.

Both teams have difficult tasks next weekend. Heidelberg will host Melbourne Victory, while Preston travel to face South Melbourne.

Saturday saw Melbourne Victory and Bulleen Lions face off at the Home of The Matildas. The visitors were looking for revenge for a round one defeat against Victory, while also needing to win to guarantee that the ended the weekend in first place.

What followed was a tight, fairly tactical battle as Jeff Hopkins and Caitlin Friend faced off in opposing dugouts. Bulleen were expected to press aggressively, but did not overly pressure the Victory defenders, instead opting to have numbers in midfield and make life difficult for a Victory side missing Poppy O’Keeffe.

Victory’s best chances game through counter-attacks, and despite being on the wrong side of some off-side calls, they created some good chances. Bulleen were more clinical when it counted and had more success from the bench to decide the game.

Ash Jordan and Alana Cortellino were introduced at the break to great effect. Cortellino’s cross fell to Jordan who lashed it home without hesitation in the 67th minute.

Sarah Cain’s driving run set up Bulleen’s second, with Cortellino and Maja Markovski waiting for the cross and Markovski finally bundling the ball over the line in the 86th minute of play.

It was a cruel loss for Victory, and especially Chloe Mckenzie who made some excellent saves through the game. With Sienna Techera and O’Keeffe likely to return next week, they will be stronger against Heidelberg.

Bulleen’s 2-0 win, combined with other results, sees them go two points clear at the top of the table. It was their fifth win in a row, and they could not be better placed to face a dangerous Avondale next weekend.

Sloane Young’s early strike got Avondale FC off to the best possible start against Alamein FC in an attacking and at times physical contest, the newly promoted Avondale ended the day as 4-0 winners.

Hannah Wilkinson’s initial shot was blocked, but she was able to regain the ball and cross perfectly for Young to carefully volley from six yards.

Injury delays for Miranda Templeman, Isabella Accardo and Cameron Barriero interrupted the first half, but luckily all three were able to continue.

That was especially lucky for Avondale, and Barreiro supplied the cross for Young’s second after half time.

Beattie Goad added a third in the 68th minute. running onto a defensive error, to round Templeman and finish from a very tight angle.

Elisse Kellond-Knight returned off the bench to add a late fourth goal. The Matildas legend might not the the most obvious name to be on the end of a breakaway counter-attack, but she did not waste the chance. Finishing off the move started by Sidney Allen’s long ball with all the composure expected from a player of her reputation.

Keilor Park secured a valuable three points with a 2-1 win against Spring Hills FC.

Abby Holmes opened the scoring for Keilor park from the penalty spot in the 12th minute, but Spring Hills equalised through Nao Kawasaki’s instinctive, curling strike.

New recruit Grace Johnston secured the points for Keilor Park with a  very well taken goal. She chested down a high cross and finished confidently into the bottom corner with the space her touch allowed her.

The Perth Glory star will add experience, pace and end product to the industrious Keilor Park, and could not have wished for a better start to her NPLW season.

South Melbourne were made to earn their 2-0  win against bottom placed Bentleigh Greens. It looked like the home side were headed for a big win when Raquel Derales scored with a 14th minute header. Meisha Westland’s quick feet and excellent cross created the opportunity, and Derales only had to flick the ball towards goal to score.

Clancy Westaway scored her first NPLW goal of the season to double the advantage in the 28th minute. Alana Cerne’s long pass unlocked the Bentleigh defence for Emily Collier to drive into the box. After assessing her options, she cut the ball back to the meet the well-timed run of Westaway, and the finish found the net through a crowd of defenders.

 To Bentleigh’s credit, they did not crumble defensively as they have in other games this season. Although South Melbourne continued to attack, and this was essentially a solid win from the home side, it was nota belting, and while the result does nothing to help Bentleigh, they will be happy with an improved defensive performance.

South keep getting stronger this season, and nobody will want to play them in finals. The new signings look to have adapted immediately at Lakeside, and they now have depth and experience across all lines.

Sunday’s game saw Boroondara Eagles keep in touch with the title race with a 3-0 win over Melbourne City.

Coco Parker’s through ball bisected the City defence for Sarah Brunner to run on and give her side a 21st minute lead.

Parker scored one for herself after the break, scoring with a close range header following an Eagles corner kick.

Substitute Geneieve Fontes saved the best for last with a 90th minute goal. Her first longe range effort crashed off the bar, but she followed up the chance herself to make it 3-0 on the rebound.

The win means that Boroondara are only three points off top place, and keeps them just ahead of a chasing and in-form South Melbourne.

Essendon Royals vs Box Hill United, it’s hard to say what happened here. It would have taken a brave fan to confidently predict any result from this match up, but nobody would have ever guessed that it might end 7-1 to the Royals.

Box Hill have been the pace-setters for the first half of the season, both in results and in their exciting style of play.

All three big guns started in their visit to face the rapidly rising Royals, who themselves started with A-League champions Grace Maher on the bench. Everything pointed to a classic match.

Essendon will say it was, Box Hill will want to move past this quickly. The home side were up 4-0 by half time. Bronte Peel scored in the 11th minute, and Margaret Janekins had three by the break.

Akeisha Sandu’s corner was whipped in for Peel to meet with a glancing, perfectly angled header, before Jenkin’s hatrick effectively ended the contest.

The first was an opportunist strike from a poor clearance, but the finish was 18 yards was well placed.

The second, was a seven pass move from deep in defence that cut Box Hill to pieces, Sandu’s low cross put the ball on a platter for Jenkins to finish.

For the hatrick, Sandu’s delivery caused havoc once again from the corner. Box Hill were only able to half-clear and Kelli McGroarty hooked the ball to the back post where Jenkins was on hand to finish.

Peel’s driving run delivered the fifth. Keeley Segavcic saved the initial shot, but McGroarty reacted fasted to turn the ball in on the rebound.

The American star had a brace in the 67 minute. Sandhu’s corners were an unsolvable problem for Box Hill, and it was another perfect delivery to the head of McGroarty.

The seventh goal was unfortunate. In a real show of forc, Essendon brought on Maher while 5-0 up, and the star midfielder ruthlessly punished a defensive turnover to finish from point blank range.

Sydney Minarik scored a consolation for Box Hill, but they were beaten early in a game where nothing went right for them, while everything worked for The Royals, in no small part due to Akeisha Sandu’s delivery from both set pieces and open play.

This result probably says more about Essendon than Box Hill. It is likely that this is an aberration for the defending champs, an outlier in a strong season and they will likely respond with force against Bentleigh next weekend. On the other side of this game, Essendon seem to only be growing in strength, Sandhu is one of the recruits of the season who is nearly the complete footballer for The Royals, dependable defensively and devastating in the attacking third.

New Zealand international Jenkins is a genuine gun, McGroarty looks like a potential  A-League level striker and the prospect of Maher combining with Bella Sewards is frankly terrifying for opposition midfielders.

Everything went right for Essendon on this day. The rest of the season will not be perfect, but this was a statement win, that they are ready to take that extra step in 2026.

In appreciation of Grace Johnston.

Keilor Park have secured a genuine star in Grace Johnston. The Perth Glory fullback is a real coup for the determined, but inconsistent side. Keilor’s ladder position is not down to lack of effort or even organization. They always put in a strong effort and can test teams physically and tactically, but have needed a game breaker, particularly in close contests.

Johnston can be that player.

Deployed across both flanks and only for 45 minutes, Johnston was the standout player, and scored the match winner on debut for her new club. Her acceleration caused some distress to Spring Hill’s defence, and her close control made her a threat when she drifted inside.

The winning goal was pure class, and even though she was subbed out at half time, she did enough to earn a spot in the NPLW Team of the Week.

Johnston plays much deeper for Glory, but was used almost exclusively as an attacker in this match, often waiting on the shoulder of Spring Hill’s fullbacks.

Her positional change and impact recalls Kaitlyn Torpey at Preston Lions in 2024, where she evolved from a fullback to a versatile, attacking weapon.

Johnston can also bring the best out of Abbey Holmes. The striker’s holdup play and ability to attack crosses should work well with Johnston’s wing play, and the pair showed positive signs of a good rapport in the limited time they had.

If Johnston can play to her potential, she can not only help Keilor avoid a relegation battle, but change their ambitions as a top six aspirant.

So far, Keilor Park has been a side that can be hard to beat, with Johnston, they can be hard to stop.

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Underdogs unseat Foxes to gain promotion to top flight

Charlton Athletic 0-0 Leicester City (2-1 on penalties)

by Ben Tattoo (23/5/26)

Above: Charlton Athletic celebrate after defeating Leicester City in penalties to gain promotion to the top flight of English Women’s football. Photo: via WSL

Charlton Atheltic wrote themselves into the history books this afternoon, triumphing the first ever Women’s Super League play off to seal their place in the topflight next season and relegate Leicester City to the WSL2.

Not for the first time this season, goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse was the hero for Charlton, making several outstanding stops during the game before saving an incredible four spot kicks in a tense penalty shootout that followed the goalless 120 minutes between the two sides.

The Action

It was fast and physical start to the game, with both sides committing numerous fouls and looking to get the ball forwards quickly.

Despite being out form and fielding a reshuffled line up, Charlton looked to take the game to a Leicester side who have won just two points from 11 games on the road in the WSL this season.

Leicester looked short of confidence and indecisive on the ball, but the home side struggled to create clear-cut changes despite some excellent pressure.

Jodie Hutton found space in the box, but her shot was well blocked by Julie Thibaud before heading Katie Bradley’s free kick across goal with Leicester scrambling the ball clear. She then teed up Emma Bissell after good work by Karin Muya but the forward failed to make a good connection from a promising position.

Just before half time, Leicester came closest to opening the scoring, with Shannon O’Brien forcing Whitehouse into a stunning one-handed save with her deflected snapshot from 18 yards.

A triple change on 55 minutes changed things for Leicester and they were by far the more dominant side for the rest of the game.

They immediately began to make inroads into Charlton’s half with Van Egmond linking up well with Sarah Mayling. Sam Tierney and Van Egmond both shot wide after good play down the right side.

With neither side able to break the deadlock, extra time arrived and Charlton came closest to breaking the deadlock when Katie Lockwood’s drive came back off the crossbar.

Leicester pushed back and Whitehouse again produced a fantastic save, diving to her right to push Heather Payne’s well-struck volley out for a corner.

Leicester’s lack of composure in good attacking positions again let them down when Tierney blazed over after being teed up by Van Egmond in the last meaningful opportunity of the game.

From the moment the shoot-out started it was the Sophie Whitehouse show. The Irish international saved penalties from Van Egmond, O’Brien, Payne and Naomie Mouchon to send the crowd wild and Charlton back into the top flight for the first time since 2008.

Analysis

In her post match press conference, Charlton manager Karen Hills, sitting with Whitehouse, talked much about the importance of being a strong, defensive cohesive unit.

“We were very confident in our out of possession shape. The players from the front defended, everyone knew their roles and responsibilities.”

These are the principles that have been the foundation of Charlton’s excellent season, where they conceded the least goals in the WSL 2 (21), and it was the strategy that helped them overcome their WSL opponents.

Leicester had 65% of the possession and over three times as many shots (22-6), however 10 were from outside the penalty area and only four efforts hit the target. Charlton’s defence made eight blocks compared to Leicester’s one.

When Leicester did hit the target, they found Whitehouse in unbeatable form. Her crucial stop before half time from O’Brien’s deflected shot was the pick of the bunch, but every save she made seemed to raise Charlton sprits and dent Leicester’s already fragile confidence.

Whitehouse was keen to echo her managers statements, highlighting how this strategy will prepare the side well for competing against WSL sides next season.

With their fantastic team togetherness, fighting spirit and heroic goalkeeper, it is clear to see that any team facing this Charlton Athletic will have to play at their very best to beat them.

Leicester boss Rick Passmore was clearly disappointed, but full of praise for the attitude of his team and the wider community at the club. He also spoke about the need for clarity moving forwards “we’ve got to review what we want to do. What’s our identity and values?”.

There is certainly much to ponder for the Foxes. On the pitch the club have suffered 12 straight defeats in all competitions prior to this game, and are winless away from home since January 2024. They scored just 11 goals in the WSL this season, with O’Brien notching five of them.

Off the pitch there will be players futures to think about and the likely financial implications of having both their men’s and women’s side relegated in the same season.

Clarity is needed for sure, but one thing is for certain; it will be a long, hard summer for the East Midlands Club.    

Teams

CHARLTON ATHLETIC (4-2-3-1): Whitehouse, Fitzgerald, Skeels, Lobato, Mason, Kenney, Bradley, McAteer, Muya, Hutton, Bissell. Substitutes: Leitzig, Payne, Neville, Swaby, Goodwin, Ayane, Van Egmond, Williams, Mouchon.

LEICESTER CITY (5-2-1-2): Keane, Mayling, Kees, Thibaud, Jansson, Ale, Tierney, Rantala, McLoughlin, Cain, O’Brien. Substitutes: Pedersen, Ross, Pearsen, Humphrey, Lockwood, Finlayson, Thestrup, Waldie.

Referee: Emily Healsip
Attendance: 3,979

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Joe Montemurro names mixed Matildas squad for Mexico friendlies

Above: The CommBank Matildas lineup against Kenya in the April window. Image: Matildas via X.

By Genevieve Henry (20/5/26).

Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro has named his squad for the June friendly series against Mexico in Newcastle and Sydney. With one first-time call-up and two potential milestone appearances, Montemurro is bringing a mix of experience and freshness to the squad.

“We’ve retained a strong core group, while also creating opportunities for players who have performed well at club level and are ready for experience in the international environment,” Montemurro said. 

17-year old Adelaide United goalkeeper Ilona Melegh will be attending her first senior Matildas camp after a standout A-League Women season. She made 12 appearances and recorded five clean sheets and was named the winner of the 2025/26 Adelaide United A-League Women Rising Star Award. She has also impressed at the Young Matildas level, most recently competing in the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup and starting all four games. 

Nottingham Forest’s Alana Murphy will be back in the squad for the first time since June 2025, and hoping to earn her 6th cap. Isabel Gomez will be looking for her 3rd and Leticia McKenna, who stunned with a goal on debut, will be looking for her 2nd.

On the other end of the experience spectrum, Ellie Carpenter will be eyeing her 100th game in green and gold and Caitlin Foord her 150th.

Several players will be coming into camp off big career moves and accomplishments. Mary Fowler’s Manchester City just won in a dominant Women’s Super League campaign in England and Sam Kerr became Chelsea’s all-time joint top scorer in her final game with the Blues. 

With fresh legs as well as veteran stars, Montemurro has options to explore as Australia looks ahead to the 2027 World Cup.

“This window provides another important step for us as we continue building consistency and clarity in the way we want to play,” Montemurro said.

Big name players missing out on the series include Katrina Gorry, Michelle Heyman, Tameka Yallop and Charli Grant. Clare Hunt similarly misses out due to an injury sustained in the Asian Cup. Kyra Cooney-Cross missed the end of Arsenal’s season to spend time with her mother, Jess as she battles a rare and aggressive cancer, and was not named in this squad. 

Australia will host Mexico at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on June 6, then at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on June 9.

Mexico are ranked 27th in the world and will provide a tough matchup for a Matildas side searching for consistency in World Cup preparations.

“Mexico will present a different challenge for us, and that’s exactly what we need at this stage. Exposing the group to varied opposition and conditions is critical as we continue to grow, and we’re looking forward to maximising our time together both on and off the pitch.”

CommBank Matildas June 2026 Squad
Mackenzie ARNOLD   Goalkeeper  Portland Thorns FC  67 (0)  
Ellie CARPENTER  Defender  Chelsea FC  99 (5)  
Steph CATLEY  Defender  Arsenal WFC   146 (7)  
Alex CHIDIAC Midfielder F.C Como Women 39 (2) 
Caitlin FOORD   Forward  Arsenal WFC   148 (40)  
Mary FOWLER Forward Manchester City 69 (17) 
Isabel GOMEZ Midfielder Central Coast Mariners 2 (0) 
Winonah HEATLEY  Defender  AS Roma  20 (0)  
Alanna KENNEDY   Defender  London City Lionesses   150 (17)  
Sam KERR  Forward  Unattached 139 (75)  
Chloe LINCOLN Goalkeeper Brisbane Roar FC 5 (0) 
Leticia MCKENNA Forward Melbourne City FC 1 (1) 
Holly MCNAMARA  Forward  Melbourne City FC  19 (2)  
Ilona MELEGH Goalkeeper Adelaide United FC 0 (0) 
Alana MURPHY Midfielder Nottingham Forest 5 (0) 
Courtney NEVIN  Defender  Malmo FF  44 (1)  
Jamilla RANKIN Defender TSG 1899 Hoffenheim 9 (0) 
Hayley RASO  Forward   Eintracht Frankfurt  108 (24)  
Charlize RULE Defender Brighton Hove & Albion F.C. 6 (0) 
Amy SAYER  Midfielder  Malmo FF 26 (5)  
Remy SIEMSEN  Forward   FC Rosengard 17 (0)  
Kaitlyn TORPEY  Forward  Newcastle United   27 (2)  
Emily VAN EGMOND   Midfielder  Leicester City  173 (33)  
Clare WHEELER   Midfielder  Everton WFC   41 (3)  

CommBank Matildas v Mexico  

Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026 

Kick-off: 7.15pm AEST  

Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle 

TV Broadcast:  Network 10, Paramount+ 

CommBank Matildas v Mexico 

Date: Tuesday, 9 June 2026 

Kick-off: 7.00pm AEST 

Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney 

TV Broadcast:  Paramount+ exclusive  

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