Rangers continue fine run of form with Partick cup demolition

Partick Thistle 0-8 Rangers

By Gethin Thurlow for Impetus at Petershill Park (16/2/26)

Above: Rangers celebrate with captain Nicola Docherty afetr she scored Photo: Rangers FC

Rangers looked imperious all over the pitch as they dominated Partick Thistle in the Scottish Cup quarter final in Glasgow. With shining performances all over the pitch, this side looks like a Rangers team ready to retain that cup double – and potentially challenge for the SWPL title too.

The Teams

With a place at Hampden Park and a Scottish cup semi final on the cards, Leanne Crichton named a full strength team at Petershill, facing a Partick Thistle building form in the league. Callie Brookshire continued to start, after her late heriocs a few weeks ago at this ground against City. Camille Lafaix, finally back up to full fitness has been enjoying a good run in the team and that continued this afternoon.

Hosts Partick Thistle meanwhile had legendary midfielder Jo Love absent, and tried a slightly unusual plan to replicate her control and reading of the game in the defensive midfield role. Right back Rosie Slater moved in there, with usual left back Abbi Handley starting on the right of a back four. Imogen Longcake started as the striker – an area Partick have struggled all season.

These changes didn’t tighten up the Partick defence early on. Within three minutes, Jodi McCleary’s cross into Katie Wilkinson bobbled around a bit before the English striker calmly pushed the ball home to give Rangers the lead.

The Jags barely put an attack together before the score was doubled. Lafaix’s ball into the box was headed out, and Nicola Docherty struck it powerfully with her left foot. Jeni Currie got a hand to it, but that only pushed it onto the inside of the post, before bouncing in.

A couple of minutes later and the lead was three. Callie Brookshire crossed to the right, with January SWPL player of the month Eilidh Austin beating a defender and finding Laura Berry in miles of space on the six yard line. She composed herself, then smashed the ball past Currie, already surpassing what Glasgow City did against Stenhousemuir within 15 minutes.

Unlike that City game, Partick Thistle did attack and get the ball into their opposition’s half, but it didn’t garner any better goal chances. Longcake only had hopeful long balls to feed on most of the day, and Rangers always recovered in numbers, giving Thistle no time or space to work with.

While there was more space provided and some really poor defending on display, Rangers’ attack looked brilliant. Dynamic movement around the box, high-quality balls delivered from Brookshire on the left and Austin on the right and a midfield running rings around Partick will please Crichton so much.

The way McLearly, Cruft and Lafaix were able to dribble, pass and sprint past Partick’s midfield just gave them the freedom to completely manipulate the game, picking out killer balls into the box, recycling possession when required and making their own chances on occasion. After a quarter-of-an-hour break from scoring Rangers fancied a fourth.

They played a trick freekick between McLearly and Brookshire, finding the Greek winger wide again, ready to cause more chaos. This time, her cross fizzed all the way to Eilidh Austin, who deflected back across the face of goal. Waiting there was Kathy Hill, who with her back to goal, touched the ball over her head and into the net.

There was no break between the fourth and fifth however, as Eilidh Austin, out of position in the middle of the pitch, played a textbook through-ball for Berry, who rolled it below Currie first time. Somehow, the scoreline didn’t change again before the half time whistle.

Nothing changed at the break, as Partick continued to defend poorly while Rangers looked absolutely incredible. Camille Lafaix put on the sort of display Rangers fans have been crying out for the last year, ducking and diving between defenders and playing brilliant balls. The standout was a through ball delicately placed in the path of Quinty Sabajo early in the second half, an absolute defence-splitter that ended up being cleared after Sabajo passed wide.

On a similar through ball, this time from a closer range, Lafaix over-hit the ball as Jeni Currie rushed out and easily got there before the incoming Wilkinson. However, instead of grabbing the ball, she somehow pushed it back out into play, so that when Wilkinson played a simple ball back to Berry she had an empty net to put the ball into, completing her hatrick.

It was the usual suspects involved in the seventh goal. Austin, putting pressure on the defence forced- then won the subsequent high ball, heading to Berry. This time she decided to reverse the last goal and passed to Wilkinson, who rarely would miss the target from inside the box like that.

A triple change, the hosts would’ve hoped might bring them some rest bite, but it did not initially. After Brogan Hay was brought on – encouraging as she returns from a long-term injury – alongside young player Sophie Black and the ever-present Mia McAulay, Rangers won a corner. Jodi McLearly put a great ball in and it was headed by centre back Leah Eddie.

Player of the Match Camille Lafaix

There was so many different world class performances out there today: Laura Berry, Callie Brookshire, Eilidh Austin and Jodi McLeary, but for me it is Lafaix that comes out on top. The midfielder was truly back at her best level today. She was just doing whatever she wanted out there, popping up across the pitch, winning fouls, getting assists, advancing the ball.

With the American midfielder coming such form, the prospect of facing Rangers twice post-split will be a scary one for every SWPL team.

Where this leaves the teams

It was a very poor performance from Partick Thistle. On the same ground two hours, a Championship side had fought all game long, limiting Scotland’s best team to just 2 goals. Within 15 minutes, Partick were already three goals down. While they might have offered more going forward than Stenhousemuir, they also handed Rangers a 90 minute free trial to access any part of the Petershill pitch they wanted.

While anything short of a win would have been extremely disappointing for Leanne Crichton, but the manner of it will be satisfying. Winning 8-0 is a step above those 3-0 and 4-0’s, and it carry’s on a pattern for her team since the winter break.

8-0 was only the score at half time against Hamilton, while 4 points from Hibs and City is as good as you can hope for. After an understandably shaky start under the new manager, the team have settled now and seem like a good shout to be the closest challengers for the title this year, while they also try to retain both cups again.

TEAMS: PARTICK THISTLE (4-1-4-1): Currie, Handley, Falconer (c), Ferguson, McCuloch, Slater, English, McAllister, King, Donaldson, Longcake. Substitutes: Rennie (for King 49′), Syrijanen (for Longcake 61′), Hollis (for Donaldson 61′), Fraser (for McCuloch 72′)

RANGERS (4-2-3-1): Fife, Austin, Eddie, Hill, Docherty (c), McLeary, Cruft, Berry, Lafaix, Brookshire, Wilkinson. Substitutes: Sabajo (for Cruft 46′), Rafferty (for Hill 46′) McAulay (for Wilkinson 60′), Hay (for Brookshire 60′), Black (for Lafaix 60′)

Scorer: 0-1 Wilkinson 3′, 0-2 Docherty 10′, 0-3 Berry 13′, 0-4 Hill 28′, 0-5 Berry 33′, 0-6 Berry 48′, 0-7 Wilkinson 57′, 0-8 Eddie 70′.

Lacey Heys: WA youngster on her experience at the Australian School Girls’ tour of the UK

Exclusive by Ben Gilby (16/2/26)

Above: The All Australian School Girls squad lining up along with opponents Cardiff City during their UK tour last month. Photo: Emma Heys Facebook.

Three young Western Australians, Lacey Heys, Klaudia Houlis, and Hannah Reynolds recently returned home from the UK after being part of the All Australian School Girls team that played a seven match tour, and Heys speaks in depth to Impetus about the experience of a lifetime that she and her team-mates enjoyed.

The squad were selected as a result of the School Sport Australia tournament in Brisbane, where players were selected based on their performance during five matches in Queensland.

Due to the nature of the team’s make-up, there were no opportunities to train or bond together before boarding the long flight to the UK, but, Heys outlined that the squad were able to have two training sessions upon arrival prior to their first match.

Above: The Western Australian contingent of the All Australian School Girls’ squad – left to right: Klaudia Houlis, Lacey Heys, and Hannah Reynolds. Photo: Emma Heys Facebook,

The UK has experienced a very wet and generally mild winter, but the Australian team had the misfortune to arrive in the one extremely cold spell that the nation experienced, and it is something that Heys looks back on ruefully.

“When we weren’t playing, yes it was very much a shock, however I prefer to play in cold weather, so I really enjoyed it!” she smiled.

Among the teams that the squad faced were Welsh Colleges, Swansea City, Cardiff City, Wrexham, Crystal Palace, and Arsenal. The Australians produced a superb set of performances and results.

Above: Lacey Heys in action for the Australian Schoolgirls side during their January tour of the UK. Photo: Instagram.

“We won all our games, the first four were very easy – we won them by at least eight goals, however the last two games against Crystal Palace and Arsenal were better match ups.

“We won against Crystal Palace 4-0 and against Arsenal 2-1. Collectively, we worked really well together and gelled quickly which I believe is because the talent in the team was so strong that our game understanding was high which made it easier for us to play with each other. 

“Individually, I feel as though I played well, the first few games weren’t much of a challenge but I believe I still played to a high standard and the final games I was very happy with my performances. Overall, I scored six or seven goals and assisted five, I believe.”

Any tour such as this is, though, about more than results on the pitch – it’s about experiencing life changing opportunities, and Heys had plenty of those.

Above: Lacey Heys with her captain’s armband on the All Australian School Girls’ tour of the UK. Photo: Emma Heys Facebook.

“There were a lot of exciting experiences off the pitch but it was also important to stay disciplined and make sure our main focus was always on preparing properly and performing well in games. It was really important to interact and talk with the other teams and their coaching staff to learn things.”

In terms of the biggest learning from the tour, Heys identified that “When I’m playing with such great players, I am able to find what I like most about how they play and try to implement that into how I play.”

Heys is now back in Western Australia and preparing for the new NPLW WA season. Having been part of the Football West Academy set-up for six years, she has joined a Fremantle City side who are looking to push into Top Four Cup contention for 2026. With the pre-season Night Series tournament just underway, the youngster has set herself some targets for the coming months.

“I’m looking to have a good start to the season with Fremantle to get ourselves on the front foot for the rest of the season, and develop myself as a player to hopefully get recognised outside of the NPLW WA.”

(c) Impetus 2026

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Tottenham Run Riot in Villa’s Backyard in Ten-Goal Thriller

Aston Villa 3-7 Tottenham Hotspur

by Hope Robinson (15/2/26)

Above: Tottenham Hotspur players celebrating their fifth goal of the game Photo: bbc.co.uk

A ten-goal thriller at Villa Park saw Tottenham Hotspur storm to a 7-3 victory over Aston Villa on 15 February, as strikes from Signe Gaupset, Olivia Holdt and a clinical brace from Cathinka Tandberg proved decisive despite a spirited Villa fightback led by Kirsty Hanson and Oriana Jean-François.

Context and Stakes 

Aston Villa hosted Tottenham Hotspur at Villa Park in a fixture that carried importance for both sides’ momentum and league ambitions. Prior to kick-off, Villa sat eighth in the table on 16 points, while Spurs were fifth on 26 points, underlining the opportunity for both to strengthen their positions.

Neither side arrived in dominant form. Villa had won one of their last five league matches, while Spurs had taken two victories from their previous five outings. Recent results suggested little separated the teams despite the gap in league position.

History reinforced that closeness. The Villains and the Lilywhites had each recorded five wins in this fixture, alongside three draws. The reverse meeting earlier this season ended in a dramatic 2-1 victory for Spurs, with all three goals arriving late. Villa led in the 84th minute before conceding twice, including once just a minute later and again in added time, and also saw a player dismissed for a second yellow card.

Aston Villa manager Natalia Arroyo acknowledged the challenge beforehand, stating that they “come into this game after a difficult run of results” and recognising that Spurs “have been the revelation of the season”.

Team News and Shape 

Villa remained without long-term absentees Rachael Daly and Gabi Nunes. Ellie Roebuck returned to the starting eleven after a spell out, while Netherlands international Chastity Grant also featured.

Lucia Kendall was named in the squad for the first time since January following a quad injury, providing a welcome midfield boost. January signing Oriana Jean-François made her first start for Villa.

For Spurs, Maika Hamano entered the starting line-up for the first time since joining on loan from Chelsea in January. Her versatility across the forward line and midfield added technical quality and composure in possession.

First Half Overview 

Th opening five minutes saw Tottenham dominate possession, building primarily through the flanks with wide players making runs to receive long balls. Both sides had space to operate, but Villa struggled to keep hold of the ball and were slow to clear their lines. In 4’, Villa lost possession just outside their box, allowing Beth England to get a shot away that was saved by Ellie Roebuck. Villa countered immediately, Kirsty Hanson using her pace to beat her defender and get a shot off, which went wide.

Between 5’ and 15’, Spurs continued to play direct balls over the top and out wide to Julie Blakstad. In 7’, a foul on Lynn Wilms resulted in a free kick that was eventually cleared out of play. Spurs pressed tightly when Villa were in possession, forcing defenders into rushed passes. A strong sliding tackle from Miri Taylor in 9’ halted a promising Spurs attack. However, in 10’, Spurs took the lead through Signe Gaupset, who struck from distance after a direct and quick transition forward that Villa struggled to deal with.

Villa’s issues playing out from the back continued. In 12’, a poor pass fell straight to a Tottenham player, leading to a header from England that Roebuck caught but spilled, though Gaupset could not find space for a follow-up shot. In 14’, another Roebuck pass found a Spurs player, but Villa recovered and broke through Chastity Grant, who was forced to lift the ball under pressure from Gaupset, failing to find Hanson.

Villa responded in 16’ when Hanson made an excellent run in behind and fired a powerful shot from a wide angle to equalise. Spurs remained committed to switching play quickly, often looking to bypass midfield and find Blakstad. In 17’, a dangerous cross from the right nearly found England before Roebuck intervened.

In 20’, Spurs regained the lead. Olivia Holdt made a strong run before slipping the ball wide to England, who curled an unstoppable effort just under the crossbar. Holdt threatened again shortly after, running in behind Anna Patten but shooting over. Villa created chances of their own, with Jean-François driving forward in 23’ and Lucy Parker shooting from distance, though her effort went over.

In 24’, Grant delivered a low, driven cross to the near post that Taylor met, but it was saved. Spurs’ pressure paid off again in 26’ when Holdt found the net following a cross after sustained attacking play. Villa were allowing too much space for shots around the edge of the box and Spurs were running in behind with ease.

In 28’, Roebuck hesitated under pressure from Holdt, nearly allowing the forward to force the ball over the line. Hanson nearly struck again in 30’, breaking forward in similar fashion to her earlier goal, but her shot drifted just wide, once more lacking support in the box.

From 30’ to 45’, the tempo remained high. In 35’, a well-timed ball over the top released Hanson, but Rebecca Spencer came off her line to claim. A failed Lucy Staniforth slide tackle opened space for Spurs, leading to a sequence of shots from Amanda Nildén and England, one effort striking the post before going out for a corner. Tottenham’s overlapping runs continued to stretch Villa’s defensive shape.

Parker produced an important block to deny Holdt, who had earlier used her strength to shrug off Patten. Six minutes were added at the end of the half. In 47’, Hamano fired over the bar after a flowing Spurs move. In 49’, she struck again from a similar position, this time forcing a save from Roebuck. Wilms and Staniforth threw themselves into blocks as Spurs pushed for further advantage. Nildén was shown a yellow card in 49’ as the half concluded.

Second Half Overview 

Villa introduced Rachael Maltby at half time, likely as a precaution regarding Staniforth. The change brought more energy and physicality.

Early in the second half, Grant drove forward and delivered a cross that Maltby narrowly failed to connect with. The midfield battle became more competitive, with Villa stronger in duels. In 49’, Holdt struck from distance, but her effort lacked power and was comfortably gathered by Roebuck.

In 50’, a heavy touch from Maya Hijikata allowed Spurs to break, though they lacked the same cutting edge seen in the first half. Villa were noticeably more physical, with Parker shielding England effectively and Taylor meeting Gaupset more assertively in challenges.

In 55’, Hanson slipped a well-weighted pass through to Hijikata, though it ran slightly heavy and out for a goal kick. A loose pass from Evelina Summanen soon fell to Grant, who drove forward but shot wide, earning a corner taken by Wilms that was eventually cleared.

Between 60’ and 75’, the game swung dramatically. In 60’, Gaupset spotted Roebuck off her line and attempted an ambitious effort from near the halfway line, which drifted wide. Hanson tested Lize Kop again in 66’ with a powerful low drive that went just wide.

Villa found an equaliser in 68’. Kop played a poor pass out from the back and Jean-François intercepted, holding off her opponent before chipping the ball over the goalkeeper for her first goal for the club.

The response was immediate. In 69’, Cathinka Tandberg struck from the edge of the box to restore Tottenham’s lead, exposing Villa’s defensive fragility. In 72’, Hamano added another, finishing calmly when one on one with Roebuck.

Lucia Kendall made her return from injury during this period. However, Villa again struggled to maintain consistency, conceding twice within four minutes around the 70’ mark.

From 75’ to 90’, Villa pushed forward but appeared fatigued. In 79’, Wilms made an excellent driving run into the box and found Ebony Salmon, whose powerful shot was parried by Kop.

In 80’, Hanson scored her second of the match, reacting quickest inside the box after a scrappy sequence to fire home. In 81’, Salmon battled well with Clare Hunt but was unable to get clear enough to shoot decisively.

Tottenham extended their lead again in 82’. After building down the wing and through Hamano in midfield, a precise ball across goal found Tandberg, who finished confidently for her second. In 85’, Blakstad added another with a strong header from a corner.

Five minutes were added at the end of the match. Added time saw possession change hands frequently, with both sides slightly more cautious. In 94’, Gunning-Williams fired inches wide as the match came to a close.

Key Player Analysis: Lynn Wilms 

Lynn Wilms was one of Villa’s most consistent performers, operating predominantly down the right flank and influencing both defensive and attacking phases. Her influence zones stretched from deep defensive areas into advanced wide positions, particularly in the second half when she was utilised more aggressively as a wing-back.

Defensively, Wilms applied constant pressure to Spurs’ wide players, matching their physicality and rarely allowing them to turn comfortably. Her positioning was disciplined and intelligent, maintaining the defensive line while also stepping out at the right moments to engage. She read transitions well and frequently recovered into shape quickly after Villa lost possession.

On the ball, her decision-making stood out. Wilms demonstrated composure under pressure, using her technical security to shield possession when surrounded. She recognised when to recycle play and calm the tempo, and when to pass forward to accelerate attacks. Her distribution was varied, passing inside to midfield, down the line into space, or switching direction to reset phases.

In the second half, her forward carries became more prominent. She made several progressive runs up the pitch, combining strong dribbling with physical strength to move Villa into advanced areas. Her match-defining qualities were her defensive discipline, positional awareness and physical robustness, all of which helped stabilise Villa during difficult spells. As a Netherlands international signed from Wolfsburg in the summer, she has brought experience, composure and structure to the side.

Standout Performances 

Kirsty Hanson provided Villa’s primary attacking threat. Her pace in behind repeatedly exposed Tottenham’s defensive line, and she was direct in her approach, shooting with confidence. Her equaliser came from intelligent movement and sharp execution, and she remained dangerous throughout with relentless work rate both on and off the ball.

Miri Taylor contributed significant defensive solidity in midfield. Her tackling, including key sliding interventions in the first half, disrupted Spurs’ transitions. She competed strongly in duels and offered balance when Villa were under sustained pressure.

For Tottenham, Olivia Holdt was central to their attacking rhythm. Her strength on the ball allowed her to drive past defenders, and she combined creativity with goal threat. She assisted and scored, and frequently found space between Villa’s lines.

Signe Gaupset’s movement and willingness to shoot from distance added unpredictability. Her early goal set the tone, and she consistently looked to exploit moments when Villa’s defensive shape was unsettled. Both players demonstrated high work rate and attacking intelligence.

In Game Management 

Villa’s second-half adjustment to use Wilms and Maltby as wing-backs proved tactically effective. The wider structure stretched Spurs and created more direct channels forward. Maltby made well-timed runs into the box from deeper positions, arriving in areas defenders did not track effectively. Wilms’ quality on the ball allowed Villa to progress higher up the pitch, which in turn granted Grant more attacking freedom.

However, game management proved costly. Following Villa’s double substitution, the team conceded twice in quick succession, suggesting a temporary loss of defensive organisation. In contrast, Tottenham’s bench had immediate impact. Cathinka Tandberg scored within minutes of entering the pitch, highlighting Spurs’ ability to maintain intensity and sharpness through substitutions.

Why Tottenham Hotspur Took the Points 

Tottenham were more clinical in key moments. While both sides created chances, Spurs converted with greater efficiency, particularly through quick transitions and shots from the edge of the box.

Their attacking movement was sharper, especially in the channels and half-spaces, and they capitalised on Villa’s lapses when playing out from the back. Midfield dominance during phases of the first half allowed them to sustain pressure, and their defensive discipline in critical moments prevented Villa from fully shifting momentum despite spells of pressure.

Outcome, Decisive Moments, and Implications 

In terms of implications, Tottenham’s victory strengthens their league position and reinforces confidence in their attacking depth. For Villa, the match underlined progress in attacking intent but also exposed structural vulnerabilities, particularly in transitional defence and concentration following tactical adjustments, and the psychological impact will centre on addressing those brief but costly lapses that ultimately defined the result.

Teams: ASTON VILLA (3-4-1-2): Roebuck, Patten (c), Jean-François, Staniforth, Hijikata, Wilms, Parker, Maritz, Hanson, Grant, Taylor. Substitutes: Maltby 45’ (for Staniforth), Salmon 71’ (for Grant), Kendall 71’ (for Taylor)

Scorer: Hanson 16’ 80’, Jean-François 68’

Tottenham Hotspur (4-4-2): Kop, A.Nildén, Gaupset, England (c), Holdt, Hunt, Wijk, Hamano, Summanen, Koga, Blakstad. Substitutes: Tandberg 67’ (for Holdt), Vinberg 67’ (for A.Nildén), Ahitnen 85’ (for England), Bartrip 86’ (for Koga), Gunning-Williams 86’ (for Hamano)

Scorer: Gaupset 10’, England 20’, Holdt 26’, Tandberg 69’ 82’, Hamano 72’, Blakstad 85’

Referee: Stacey Pearson

Assistant Referee: Leoni Harland, Dan Sykes

Fourth Official: Phoebe Cross

Inspired Stenhousemuir hold Glasgow City to two goal deficit in Scottish Cup

Glasgow City 2-0 Stenhousemuir

By Gethin Thurlow for Impetus at Petershill Park (15/2/26)

Above: Kyla Thomson chases Natalia Wrobel on the ball Photo: Glasgow City FC

A brilliant team effort from Stenhousemuir saw the Championship side hold Scotland’s current leading team to just a 2-0 loss in the Scottish Cup quarter finals in Glasgow.

The Teams

Facing their final game before the split – which would give them tough games every week, Leanne Ross was happy to take the opportunity against third-tier Stenhousemuir and name a completely changed starting lineup.

Debutant Codie Thomas started at right back, while fellow January loanee Lydia Sallaway started for the first time at centre back. Summer signing Erin McLaughlin – who rarely makes appearances started in midfield alongside Emily Gray, also loaned in from the WSL. Ross also opted to start both striker options Lisa Forrest and Abi Harrison, with Forrest starting on the right wing.

Stenhousemuir, facing the challenge of the best team in Scotland, set up in a defensive 5-4-1 formation, With striker Kyla Thomson the only player who spent much time outside of their own box.

The Action

The game was never going to be a battle of possession, but the visitors certainly didn’t sit back and let City roam wherever they wanted. The midfield four pushed out rather than just sitting in front of the defence and did win the ball back. Stenhousemuir also held a very disciplined defensive line – which is not easy to do as a flat five, catching Glasgow City offside frequently.

Another aspect of ‘Stenny’s’ performance which was well coached was the marking of players. Sticking one-on-one with that quality of players is extremely hard, but they communicated and worked hard to ensure no one was ever in too much space. In particular, Alex Fraser at left back and Lauren McDonald in left sided midfield were seamless and switching places and markers.

With a mixture of strong defence and a City side that had never played together before, the hosts went almost 20 minutes without forcing a save from Skye Johnston in the Stenhousemuir net. Forrest pulled a ball back from the by line into the box, and Wrobel stuck a powerful shot from close range. Incredible reactions from Johnston allowed her to make the save, and from the rebound Jack Cameron’s team managed to block and then clear the ball.

It was not long until another save was drawn by City. Forrest, cutting in on her left foot sent a cross/shot curling towards that far corner, Johnston parried it away, but this time it fell to Sofia Maatta without anyone to block the shot, and she put it away.

It took a vintage, well-rehearsed Glasgow City passing move to extend their lead. Moving up the left hand side, the ball found itself at the feet of Sofia Maatta in the box. She had a relatively simple cross to the free Harrison, who guided the ball first time into the corner.

This didn’t kill the Stenhousemuir resistance, an in fact they had their first shot of the game in the moments following. A defensive mix up from Glasgow City gave Thomson the ball outside the box. She opted to shot then as she was in some space, an it sailed over the bar.

The second half continued in much the same manner. Stenhousemuir kept holding up and denying City where they could, while Leanne Ross made five changes relatively ealy in the half. These mixed up the positions, but not their fortune in front of goal. Louisa Boyes found herself through on goal, but was denied by some more fantastic goalkeeping from Skye Johnston.

It was the bar’s turn next to get int way of City, as a low cross along the face of goal was met by Tao Stark, bouncing up into the bar and down on the line, before it was scrambled away.

The next three times City had the ball in the net, the offside flag was raised, with a beautiful flicked assist from Forrest, a well worked set piece and an absolute peach of a cross that was converted by Linda Motlhalo all chalked off.

Motlhalo was in the action again as she cut in from the left and fired a powerful shot in, that was well saved by Johnston.

While it is usually the case that professional teams have the biggest advantage towards the end of games, when the fitness becomes even more important, there was none of that in this fixture. Stenhousemuir stayed defensively solid right up until the final whistle, fighting for every ball and tackle at maximum effort.

Player of the Match Ellie Hunter

Stenhousemuir captain Hunter was the leader of the team, and leader of the defence. Facing the current leaders of the SWPL was always going to be a mammoth task, and Hunter was part of that defence that just kept going all day long. The offside flag ruled out more goals than City ended up scoring legally – and that was all down to those five defenders staying together and holding that line.

Retaining that discipline throughout the entire 90 minutes is a huge task, but something that Hunter was a major part of. This City team can put goals past anyone, and regularly wins by more than a two-goal margin in the SWPL. To hold them to this was a beyond inspired effort, and Ellie Hunter was right at the centre of this.

Glasgow City will move on to the Semi Finals at Hampden Park, with the winners of Montrose v Dundee United, Hearts v Celtic and Partick Thistle v Rangers joining them in the draw.

TEAMS: GLASGOW CITY (4-3-3): Clachers (c), Thomas, Brownlie, Sallaway, Warrington, Wrobel, Mclaughlin, Gray, Forrest, Harrison, Maatta. Substitutes: Stark (for Sallaway 46’), Boyes (for Maatta 46’) Motlhalo (for McLaughlin 60’), Tanaka (for Wrobel 60’), Whelan (for Harrison 60’).

Scorers: 1-0 Maatta 21’, 2-0 Harrison 30’

STENHOUSEMUIR (5-4-1): Johnston, Mitchell, Hunter (c), Vickerman, Jones, Fraser, Carruthers, Gray, Halpin, McDonald, Thomson Substitutes: Gidney (for Gray 43’) McClounan (for McDonald 68’) Corey (for Carruthers 68’), McWilliams (for Halpin 77’), Young (for Thomson 77’).

Referee: Abbi Hendry.

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Melbourne Derby ends in stalemate

Melbourne Victory 0-0 Melbourne City

By Emma Burke 15/2/26

Above: Rachel Lowe pressures Karly Roestbakken. Photo: Melbourne City

Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City have drawn in the Melbourne derby for only the second time in their history, with neither team finding the back of the net on a hot afternoon at the Home of the Matildas.

The final game for Round 17 was not without its big chances, but neither Melbourne side could make them count. 

The home side’s best chance of the first half came through Holly Furphy, who made the most of a pass from Kennedy White releasing her down the right flank. An imperfect interception on White’s pass by Alexia Apostolakis left Furphy to pounce on the ball and utilise all of her speed to pass Apostolakis and eventually get a shot off.

Taken on a very tight angle, the ball slid just past the far post and out, leaving the scores still level before half time.

Melbourne City had a few good chances on goal, one where Leticia McKenna was in one-on-one with Courtney Newbon in goal, but McKenna took her chance too quickly, only managing to poke the ball at Newbon, who collected with ease.

Another scoring opportunity came to City through Aideen Keane, who was once again full of running and positive attacking play.

Keane managed to shoot from outside the box, driving the ball in low with a lot of power behind it. While it looked like the ball was going to squeeze through and cross the line, Newbon was able to fall on top of it and make the save.

Both teams came into this match looking to come away with all three points, which could have provided City with a buffer at the top of the table against Wellington Phoenix who trail them in second place, or could have helped Victory back into the top six.

They’ll both be looking to bounce back from the draw next week when Victory host Wellington Phoenix, and City travel to play Central Coast Mariners for Round 18.

Melbourne Victory (4-5-1): Newbon, Pickett, Bunge, Morrison, Blissett, Furphy, Pollicina, Ray, Lowe, Sakalis, White Substitutes: O’Grady, Maher, Curtis, Woodward, Jancevski, Saveska

Melbourne City (3-5-2): Mieres, Roestbakken, Otto, Turner, Henry, McMahon, Apostolakis, McKenna, Keane, McNamara, Jackson Substitutes: Karic, Uchendu, Jugovic, Butrus, Barbieri, Davidson.

Referee: Sophie Allum.

Attendance: 1,566.

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Reigning champions Mariners secure huge away win over Wellington

Wellington Phoenix 1-2 Central Coast Mariners

By Callum Logie 15/2/26

Above: Brooke Nunn and Tamar Levin fight for possession. Photo: Wellington Phoenix

The windy Porirua Park hosted an interesting game between two positive sides, Mariners securing a massive win in their campaign to go back-to-back off Peta Trimis and Tamar Levin goals.

Flying high off their comprehensive victory over the Jets, Wellington made a few rotational changes to keep their team fresh heading towards the finals. Grace Jale was unavailable which saw Daisy Brazendale return to the side in midfield. Emma Pijnenburg also dropped to the bench with Mackenzie Anthony getting the start. 

The Mariners came into the game off their bye week, and in round 15, came away with a 2-2 draw with Brisbane Roar. The only change made to the starting line-up was the Italy bound Annalise Rasmussen departing the club, so the Englishwoman Millie Farrow got the start up front with Trimis.

The hosts started positively, the American forwards causing havoc in the Mariner’s box. Mikala Woods had a close range shot at goal but it was effectively deflected away in the first three minutes. Woods again had a good chance in the eighth minute of the game, using her athleticism to break in behind and force a good save out of Annalee Grove.

When the Mariners went forward, they looked to play with pace, but often fell into the offside trap of the Phoenix, Farrow and Levin both getting caught behind the line in the first 10 minutes. The wind was behind them in the first half which let them create a natural pressure on the Phoenix. 

In the 16th minute, the Central Coast Mariners won a free kick on the edge of the box. Trimis stepped up to take the free kick and struck a beautiful curled effort into the top corner to open the scoring of what was poised to be a great contest.

Wellington almost manufactured an immediate response as Brooke Nunn struck a half-volley just over the bar on the other end. The goal did wake up the hosts after a period of defending, moving forward with more urgency now that they were trailing. 

In the 28th minute, Wellington were able to strike back after a mistake in possession by Annalee Grove. Grove lost the ball after a press from Lucia Leon, then after a Woods shot was deflected off the goal line by Taren King, Mackenzie Anthony calmly converted the rebound in her first start of the season. 

The rest of the first half was very back and forth, with Leon almost taking the lead off a great Nunn cross. 

As is often the case though, a missed chance at one end leads to a goal at the other end. In the second minute of added time, a flashy passing move with Avaani Prakash found the run of Tamar Levin who took great control and powered the ball past Victoria Esson to take the lead before the break.

Wellington started the second half on the front foot, putting pressure on the Mariners defenders and playing with a high defensive line to keep good territory. The Phoenix seemed to play better from behind as the game progressed. 

The Mariners held firm defensively through the first 20 minutes of the second half, not giving away any major chances while Wellington controlled the majority of possession. Focusing on closing the space Woods had on the ball was a point of focus for Central Coast.

Central Coast sat with usually up to nine players behind the ball on defence as they were playing against the gale force wind in Wellington during the second half. It was hard to play the ball aerially as it was difficult to predict where it would go with the wind.

Wellington had many more shots at goal throughout the game but Central Coast made the most of their chances when they came their way. Parking the bus worked perfectly for the Mariners in the second half and they were able to hold on to their narrow victory at the full-time whistle, staying in firm contention for finals. 

Teams: WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-4-2): Esson, Elliott, van der Meer, Barry, Walker, Leon, Brazendale, Vlok, Nunn, Anthony, Woods. Substitutes: Danieli, Jaber, Main, Wall, Benson, Pijnenburg.

Scorers: Anthony 28′.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-1-3-2): Grove, Baumann, King, Barwick-Grey, Martin, Gomez, Kraszula, Levin, Prakash, Farrow, Trimis. Substitutes: Buchanan, Familton, Fuller, Quilligan, Thew, Varley.

Scorers: Trimis 16′, Levin 45+2′.

Referee: Anna-Marie Keighly

Attendance: 1,203.

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Melbourne Derby Preview

Above: Bryleeh Henry and Nicki Flannery battle for the ball in a previous Melbourne Derby. Image: Melbourne Victory.

By Alice de-Koster-Kitto & Isabelle Campbell (2/15/26).

Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory are set to go head to head at The Home of The Matildas this weekend, in what is set to be another heated Melbourne derby match up. 

The last time the rivals met, the derby was Melbourne City’s for the taking, and while City are headed into the match confident, and prepared for what lies ahead, the challenge ahead is not lost on the table leaders. 

“I think what’s really exciting for me when I’m reviewing that match is that we have so many more levels to get to as a group,” Melbourne City head coach Michael Matricciani said. “As a team that we’ve shown signs of it through the course of the season, but never in a full 90 minutes yet.”

Melbourne City are entering the derby on a high note, coming off a show-stopping 5-2 win over Brisbane Roar last week, with each goal coming from a different scorer. Matricciani says the victory was the first time the squad has really pulled together all the elements necessary to put together a stellar 90-minute performance. 

“There were some moments in the beginning of the match where we were a bit shaky, but I think if we can put those connections together and keep building the individual performances and the confidence in front of all, especially, then I think we have the levels.”

“You come into the game, and it’s going to be a firing match. Both teams have a lot of quality on the pitch, so it’s going to be a really exciting game.”

While such an impressive performance has instilled confidence in the City squad, especially in light of varying results, including an upsetting loss against Western Sydney Wanderers, it’s the belief of Matricciani that “it doesn’t really matter the form” when heading into a derby, as the atmosphere and natural pressure of the rivalry will be the driving force on the pitch. 

“It’s always a big game when we play Victory. It obviously gets hyped up in the media as well, so there’s a nice buzz, there’s a good rivalry, and I’ve only been involved in my second year.”

Melbourne City currently sits at the top of the Ninja A-League ladder, while Melbourne Victory sits in 6th. While they may be ahead going into the match, the ladder is unnervingly close, with Canberra United just 1 point behind City in 2nd place, and Wellington Phoenix just 2 points behind in 3rd, and Matricciani and the squad are not falling to complacency, or taking their lead for granted. 

“Technically, we’re top, but Wellington’s still have a game in hand, so they could jump us if they win their catch-up game. So we’re definitely not taking anything for granted.”

“I’ve always said, it’s about what’s next. It’s always focusing on what we can control. We can’t control what’s going to happen in six or seven weeks’ time at the end of this season. We can only control what’s happening today in our training session.” 

Despite their table lead, it’s been somewhat of a rocky season for Melbourne City, between upsets, massive wins, and inconsistent fixtures due to the AFC Women’s Champions League all playing a part, Matricciani is finally seeing the team come together in a way that he believes can bring home results, and keep City on top. 

“If they want to press us, person on person, we have to be prepared for that. If they want to sit off and swing press or gain more of a block like they’ve had in the past, then we need to be prepared for that.” 

With the intensity and stakes of the derby often lending a hand to uncertainty, City are focused on consistency, and ensuring they are prepared for whatever their Melbourne rivals will throw their way this Sunday. 

“All we can control is what we know best and how we exploit whatever the team gives us.”

Melbourne Victory enter the derby looking to build on recent momentum and keep their season on track.

A win over Newcastle Jets last round has steadied their campaign, but with the ladder tight and only a handful of matches left to play, every point counts. 

Above: Alana Jančevski speaks to the media. Image: Melbourne Victory.

Alana Jančevski reflected on the challenges leading into the Jets clash and how the group responded under pressure.

“I think we had a rocky few rounds before that, and we knew that we needed to win desperately. We came together really well, and we had a hard-fought performance. We all got together and I was happy to make an impact.”

The match played out a little differently to usual for Jančevski, starting on the bench for the first time this season before entering in the 63rd minute and putting her side ahead just a minute later.

“Like I said, we didn’t have a good few weeks. We had to change things up. I played all of the games before that, so to get to freshen up and come into the game with a real attacking mindset and be able to impact off my first kick was a great response. I was happy that the team was able to get the win in the end, and happy for Holly [Furphy] as well to get involved.”

Securing the three points gave the team a sense of momentum at just the right time, showing how quickly fortunes can shift in a season this tight.

“I think there were these little one percenters that were just a little bit off. It’s hard when you get so close to winning games and you’re just not quite there, We just kept working hard at those. And in the end, they worked out in the Jets game.”

For Jančevski, getting those details right means maintaining focus and effort across all areas of the pitch.

“I think it’s important to be doing well in all areas of the field. We have such a good side. And if we fix those little one percenters, and I think we saw that last week in the game, if we can bring all those things and that hunger and fight, going into this game, we’re very well prepared.”

As the derby approaches, the team is acutely aware of the stakes, both on the ladder and in shaping momentum for the final weeks.

“We can see the table is very tight, and there’s a lot of competition around the whole league. So those little nitty gritty things you have to bring to every game, and bring that competitive mindset.”

“I think from here on out, with not many games to go, you’ve got to be pushing to win every game. I think a derby screams that, you always want to be winning those games. They’re the games you want to be playing all season.”

The fixture also carries personal significance for Jančevski, a lifelong fan of the club she now represents.

“I’ve supported the club since I was young, so this Derby has meant something to me for my whole life. To be able to play in the Derby and have that extra fire to impact the game is something you dream of.”

Being derby week, training has carried extra fire, something Jančevski has noticed in the squad as they prepare for gameday.

“As a team, you always want to beat city. We’re going into the week really strong and competitive, and I’ve seen that competitiveness through training, so I think we’re going to bring that really well into the game.”

“You can obviously go through your tactics and things like that, but when it’s a derby, you’ve got to bring heart and that courage. Yeah, we’ve got to bring our technical ability, our pace, our power, but overall, you’ve got to have that winning mentality in these games.”

Confidence remains high amongst the squad, despite the difficulties they’ve faced this season.

“I think every team goes through it, but it’s how you bounce back from those. Ultimately, that’s going to be the difference if we get through the finals and get higher up on the ladder.”

With rivalry, ladder pressure, and momentum all intersecting, the Melbourne Derby offers Victory an opportunity to turn incremental progress into consistent form as the season moves toward its final stages.

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Perth’s hopes of Finals Glory alive after win over Canberra

Perth Glory 1-0 Canberra United

by Ben Gilby (14/2/26)

Above: Spectacular action as Canberra United’s Emma Hawkins hits an effort, watched by Perth Glory’s Tijan McKenna. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Perth Glory reignited their Finals hopes with this vital victory over a Canberra United side who went into the round in third spot on the ladder.

Whilst the Western Australian side had the better of the territory and shots on target count, it was an extremely tight game that was only settled by Hayley-Taylor Young’s own goal with 10 minutes to go to separate the teams. The outcome now sees the Glory only outside the top six on goal difference.

The home side went into the game without a win in their last four matches, and head coach Stephen Peters made two changes to his starting line-up from last week’s Distance Derby at Wellington Phoenix, with young local stars Charli Wainwright and Ella Lincoln coming in for Nat Tathem and Bronte Trew.

Canberra began the round in third place on the ladder after successive wins over Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC, with boss Antoni Jagarinec bringing Jazmin Wardlow into his starting XI for Emma Robers.

The game opened on a tough, competitive nature with immediate chances few and far between as events conspired to be largely played out in the middle third.

Canberra had a half chance with 13 minutes on the clock when Bethany Gordon sent a free-kick in from a central position just outside the box, but the ball landed comfortably into arms of an untroubled Teresa Morrissey in the Perth goal.

Shortly afterwards, Onyi Zogg volleyed a long ball forward from inside her own half which was in turn played through by clinically by Lincoln for Susan Phonsongkham to hit a shot from around 25 yards, but the effort was well over the top.

Zogg and Lincoln combined once more on the half hour mark, with the Glory attacker taking the ball towards the right hand post before laying back to Rola Badawiya, who saw her curling shot roll into the arms of Sally James.

The last half chance of the half fell to the visitors’ Taylor-Young, who curled a shot well over the top and wide from the left-hand edge of the area.

Above: Perth Glory’s Tijan McKenna (purple shirt) on her knees in a tussle today. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

The same player fashioned the first opportunity of the second half, but her mazy run ended with a similar outcome to that of her previous effort.

Canberra saw another chance go begging seven minutes into the half as Emma Hawkins beat Grace Johnston to cross in for Gordon, but her first time volley from just outside the six-yard box went over the bar.

Just before the hour mark, Perth responded by fashioning their best opportunity of the game so far. Sarah O’Donoghue was released by a long ball along the right and played in a high cross. Phonsongkham got between Tegan Bertolissio and Sasha Grove to meet it with a superb first time volley that James tipped over the top with a magnificent flying save.

Ten minutes later, Phonsongkham was denied again by Canberra’s Junior Matilda capped shot stopper when a cross from the right wasn’t dealt with by the visiting defence, and the ball fell kindly for the Glory attacker to hit a low shot that James pushed round the far post. The visitors felt that Phonsongkham handled in controlling the ball and stopped before she hit the shot, but referee Isabelle Mossin ignored the claims and merely pointed for the corner.

Phonsongkham delivered it viciously curling in towards the back post with Taylor-Young’s attempted clearance driven into the roof of the net from close range.

With two minutes of regulation time remaining, Phonsongkam went down in the area, but Mossin was not persuaded to point to the spot, and Izzy Dalton sent a chip over the top.

Canberra’s final chance of salvaging a point came six minutes into stoppage time when Michelle Heyman’s attempt at crossing in from the left took a deflection and an awkward bounce that caught out the Perth defence, and fell for Sienna Dale to turn across. Gordon was positioned on the edge of the six-yard box, but could only hit her shot wide of the goal.

Perth’s victory sets them up for a massive game away to Newcastle Jets next Saturday in the final game before the break for the early stages of the Asian Women’s Cup. Victory at the No. 2 Sportsground will give the purple’s a real chance of claiming a first Finals spot since 2018/19.

With so many sides battling out for so few Finals spots, Canberra United have to get back on the horse quickly – their final game before the break is at home to a Western Sydney Wanderers side who have hit their best run of form of the season, a run which gives them a chance of clinching only their second Finals qualification in their 14 year history.

The chaos League is delivering in spades this season. Strap yourself in, we’re in for a heck of a last five rounds of the home and away season.

For the full gallery of Rob Lizzi’s images from the match, check out our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball.

Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Morrissey, Johnston, Zogg, McKenna, Sardo, Tovar, Dalton, Wainwright, Phonsongkham, Lincoln, Badawiya. Substitutes: Anderson, Skinner, Cassidy, O’Donoghue, Tathem, Trew.

Scorers: Taylor-Young (OG) 81′.

CANBERRA UNITED (4-4-2): James, Sasaki, Wardlow, Taylor-Young, Grove, Bertolissio, Hawkins, Anton, Gordon, Heyman, Aulicino. Substitutes: Christopherson, Dale, Majstorovic, Malone, Robers, Stanic-Floody.

Referee: Isabella Mossin.

Attendance: 849.

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Taylor says Liverpool’s January recruitment has helped improve goalscoring form

By Roos Schelen (13/2/26)

Above: WSL Manager of the Month for January with his staff Photo: Liverpool FC

Liverpool’s form has dramatically improved since the winter break. Winless in the first half of the season, they won two of their three most recent matches. They beat fifth-placed Spurs by two goals to nil at home, as well as stunning Aston Villa at home with a 4-1 win over Natalia Arroyo’s side. 

It seems mostly down to a new clinical edge in front of goal. Liverpool registered five shots on target against Aston Villa, four of them went in. And they are not just relying on one goal scorer. In that match against Villa, goals were scored by Mia Enderby, Martha Thomas, Grace Fisk and Aurélie Csillag. Asked by Impetus about that greater clinicality, Taylor thinks it is down to confidence and recruitment. 

“I think we’re creating more. I feel that we had moments in earlier parts of the season where we were making the final third but probably weren’t creating chances. So I think everything feels slightly different now. It feels that we’re making more of the play that we have rather than it kind of fizzling out. So, again, that comes down to recruiting in that area of the pitch which has helped the existing players. And of course, like I’ve mentioned before, that in game you’re able to change things if you need to and bring in fresh legs. So I think confidence is a big part of it as well. And I think belief and I think this is what we have to have going into these games”,Taylor analysed.  

Liverpool face Chelsea this weekend, who have recently suffered losses against Arsenal and Manchester City, and drew to Taylor’s side in November. Head of Women’s Football Paul Green has left the club this week, with the Athletic releasing an article about how Chelsea has been run recently. The Athletic called Chelsea ‘a club in crisis’. Bompastor did not wish to comment on the matter in Chelsea’s pre-match press conference yesterday. Fact is that Chelsea have maybe not been the team they were last season, when they had an unbeaten run in the Women’s Super League (WSL). We asked Taylor about Chelsea’s recent form and which areas he felt he could target. Taylor would not be drawn on the latter, but did comment on the recent developments around Chelsea. 

“I mean they lost two games in a row and now it’s a crisis for Chelsea. Everyone’s making it a crisis. But I think Sonia probably made that transition into the club better than anyone by winning a treble last season, they were excellent. I think now you could tell that there’s some background changes that are going on at the club and sometimes that can happen when there’s success or not success. People feel that there needs to be maybe some changes.

“I’m not privy to those conversations, but obviously with Paul going, you have that transition and sometimes a transition can disrupt things a little bit. I think Sonia’s got a very good pedigree of wherever she’s been in, winning, and you can certainly see that she’s a fighter. And I think sometimes you find out more about teams and people and individuals when they’re having a difficult time”, Taylor commented. 

Martha Thomas joined Liverpool on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, not having scored between December 2023 and December 2025. That goal last December was a goal in her second to last match for Spurs, but she has scored twice already in the short period she has been with Liverpool. Once in the FA Cup, once in the league. 

“I think goal scorers are always going to go through those types of periods. I think with Martha there’s certainly things within her game that we can help her with. She attacks crosses probably better than anyone in the WSL, particularly aerially. And of course we’ve just been working on her a little bit with her positioning from crosses, so”, Taylor said.

“But I think she’s just such a good player, Martha, she gives you so much. Not just the goal output, the assists, but also the way she presses. She’s very intelligent and she’s also really good at linking up the play. She’s got a footballer’s mentality I feel. She’s a bit of that throwback kind of number nine. She doesn’t mind the rough play. She’s good with the intricate link up”, Taylor continued. 

Taylor confirms that Anna Josendal is close to a return but this match comes a little bit too soon for her. The rest of the team is as it was last week. 

Liverpool travel to Kingsmeadow to take on Chelsea at 12pm BST on Sunday. The match is shown live on Sky Sports. 

“We have to be really humble for the task”: Renee Slegers urges focus as Arsenal travel to Brighton

By Hope Robinson (13/2/26)

Above: Renee Slegers at the Emirates ahead of her team’s fixture.  Photo: arsenal.com

Hope Robinson attended Arsenal’s press conference this week ahead of their Women’s Super League clash with Brighton at Broadfield Stadium on Sunday, with Arsenal aiming to extend their five-game winning streak.

Fixture Overview

Brighton and Hove Albion host Arsenal at Broadfield Stadium on Sunday 15 February at 14:30 in the Women’s Super League, with Arsenal seeking another victory to maintain their momentum in the title race.

Arsenal travel to the South East after statement wins against their two closest rivals in their previous two league fixtures. January signing Smilla Holmberg has already enhanced the squad, adding further quality and depth at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Brighton and Hove Albion will aim to maximise home advantage and claim valuable points from the contest. They will look to remain disciplined and compact across the full 90 minutes, determined to avoid a late setback similar to their recent league defeat against West Ham United.

Speaking ahead of the game, Renee Slegers stressed the need for respect and focus. “They’ve had a challenging run. I think they are a good team.” Slegers said. “We have to be really humble for the task, with the weather, the conditions and the way that Brighton play.”

Slegers also highlighted the unpredictability of Sunday’s opponents. “The unknown will be there because I think Brighton are a good team with lots of rotation and ideas in possession and an aggressive press, but last time we played them they did something completely different,” she said. “We have to focus on ourselves, and guarantee things from that.”

Form Guide

Since the turn of the second half of the season, Arsenal have come through a defining run of fixtures, rising to each challenge at a crucial stage of the campaign.

They secured a 2-0 win away to Chelsea before edging Manchester City 1-0 at home, keeping clean sheets in both matches, and taking maximum points from two of the league’s strongest sides. Arsenal also lifted the inaugural Women’s Champions Cup and reinforced their European ambitions with a 4-0 victory over OH Leuven in the Champions League, as they push to retain their status as champions of Europe.

Slegers believes recent performances have been built on character as much as quality. “I think the team has been really brave with the way they go about things, dealing with moments and adversity,” she said. “They’ve been putting themselves out there. They have the courage to do things, they’ve stepped forward. They’ve been taking risks. It’s not easy and they’ve been brave in those moments.”

Brighton, meanwhile, have endured frustration in recent weeks. They have lost their last two league games despite taking the lead in both. Against West Ham United, Brighton were 2-0 ahead before conceding three times in the final seven minutes, a collapse they will be determined not to repeat.

Arsenal sit fourth in the table on 29 points, just two behind second place, with eight wins, five draws and one defeat. Brighton are seventh with 17 points from five wins, two draws and eight losses.

Previous Meetings

The sides have met 17 times in all competitions, with Arsenal winning 16 of those encounters and Brighton claiming one victory, meaning the fixture has never ended in a draw.

In the reverse meeting earlier this season, Arsenal secured a 1-0 win courtesy of an Olislagers own goal. That result came during a difficult spell for Arsenal, who had lost two consecutive league matches beforehand.

Slegers acknowledged the lessons from previous visits. “Last year away we had a bad performance and lost that game,” reinforcing the need for improvement and control this time around.

Team news

Anneke Borbe remains under assessment but is progressing well, with Slegers confirming the goalkeeper will be monitored closely. “Anneke Borbe is still on assessment, progressing well. We will see how she responds today,” she said.

Beth Mead will be unavailable. “Beth will be out for the block. She has a hairline fracture in her shin,” Slegers confirmed.

On Rosa Kafaji, currently on loan at Brighton from Arsenal, Slegers added: “She’s found her feet at Brighton. She can’t compete against us but it’s good to see her play.”

Tactical Battle

Much of Arsenal’s recent success has come from improved defensive organisation and collective commitment.

Reflecting on the contrast with last season, Slegers said: “A lot of hard work. We have great analysts. We have specialists in our staff. Erin has been really good in working with the defensive players. There’s such a high level of commitment in everything we do at the minute. We are in a better place than we were a year ago.”

She added: “I think the humility in the team is on another level at the moment. So many clean sheets lately. We get the rewards. We see all those actions we do on the pitch, keeping positions away from our goal, keeping them from shooting at our goal.”

Slegers also underlined the clarity within her side’s structure. “We have really good foundations in our game at the moment. It’s the Arsenal way,” she said. “Lots of clarity in the way we play. They need to feel free in their decisions. That’s what they feel right now and it’s part of the reason they are performing so well.”

Players to Watch

Olivia Smith has operated in the central number nine role in the absence of Stina Blackstenius through injury, yet she has retained the creativity and freedom that define her game.

Slegers has been particularly impressed with Smith’s adaptation. “There are certain strengths we saw in Liv, her speed and she’s very clinical in front of goal,” she said. “She’s obviously a very good dribbler. In those centre spaces she’s good at combining with Alessia and Frida. Anything that drops in the box she’s so quick to react. We see things that are new to us, it’s beautiful.”

She added: “The way she’s taken on the role out of possession I’m really impressed with. It gives us versatility. We can choose different things and different moments. It’s a strong part of our squad. There’s so much strength in this squad. It’s what we look at as staff, what can we do to get the most out of players. It’s good to have in our locker knowing Liv can play that nine role really well.”

Lotte Wubben-Moy has also been central to Arsenal’s recent defensive stability, combining decisive interventions with composed distribution from the back.

For Brighton, Kiko Seike has emerged as a significant attacking threat with six goals this season, while Madison Haley continues to provide energy and directness when leading the line.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Arsenal’s recent run has been underpinned by discipline, structure and belief.

“Its for us creating our own guarantees and our own knows. Stacking good humble actions on the pitch,” Slegers said. “We have to focus on ourselves.”

Brighton’s pace in transition and willingness to rotate in possession present clear challenges, but Arsenal’s defensive solidity and growing confidence suggest they travel with control and clarity.

Manager’s View

Slegers’ message was consistent throughout her press conference. Respect the opponent, remain humble, and trust the foundations that have been built.

Key Matchday Battles

Central spaces could prove decisive, particularly with Smith’s movement between the lines and Brighton’s aggressive press.

Arsenal’s defensive structure against Brighton’s counter-attacking threats will also be critical, especially given the home side’s ability to strike quickly through Seike and Haley.

Arsenal head to Broadfield Stadium with momentum, defensive solidity and renewed belief, but Renee Slegers has made clear that nothing will be taken for granted. Brighton’s unpredictability, home advantage and intensity demand discipline and clarity from the visitors. With Olivia Smith thriving in her adapted role and clean sheets reinforcing confidence, Arsenal look more assured than in previous meetings. Yet as Slegers stressed, “We have to be really humble for the task,” a message that highlights the focus required to secure another pivotal three points in the title race.

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