NPLW VIC R1: Victory win at Veneto Club, and South find form early

By Kieran Yap 18/2/26

Above: Aeryn Tarrant celebrates Melbourne Victory’s goal against Bulleen. Photo: Passion Creations.

The NPLW Victoria has begun, with more games, more teams and more quality. Round One saw Melbourne City, Keilor Park, Melbourne Victory and Avondale make their debut’s, a new striker start off with a bang and some youngsters make a statement.

The opening night saw Essendon Royals travel to face the champions in Box Hill United. The two sides had contrasting pre-seasons, with Box Hill a victim of their own success. Their biggest names are currently playing across the A-League Women, while some of their best young talent are at two of the new clubs. Meanwhile, Essendon have retained much of their semi-final team, and seemingly strengthened with the signing of Kelli McGroarty and the return from injury of Ava Groba.

It was another new Royal who opened the scoring. Midfielder Bella Sewards surged forward to complete a fluid attacking move and finish across the goalkeeper.

Box Hill levelled the scores before half time through their American forward, Sydney Minarik. She raced onto a high, looping ball forward to power toward goal and finish emphatically.

Sewards was involved in Essendon’s second goal of the evening, The Royals willingness to make brave in-board passes opened up space out wide and Bronte Peel’s cross was finished on the volley by McGroarty to make it 2-1.

McGroarty sealed the three points with a thunderous long range drive in the 83rd minute. Essendon’s 3-1 win was a deserved victory, and a strong start to their latest attempt to win a trophy.

South Melbourne usually begin the NPLW season in strong form, and this year was no exception. Their 5-1 win over Bentleigh Greens was not as easy as the scoreline made it look. Although South dominated the early exchanges, but found Bentleigh hard to break.

Against the run of play, Julia Budiongo scored the opener for Bentleigh. The Congolese striker is difficult to stop, and once she gets goal side, difficult becomes impossible. She scored in typical fashion in the 23rd minute.

South Melbourne eventually found their groove and the back of the net in the second half. TJ Vlajnic’s Olimpico corner levelled the scores before Raquel Derales put South ahead just minutes later.

Francesca Iermano scored a third and soon after Alexis Pantazopoulos put the game beyond doubt. Although the result was secure, South were not finished and Nikki Furukawa scored the fifth in the 84th minute.

The third game of Friday night saw Spring Hills FC and Keilor Park SC play out an entertaining 1-1 draw. Abby Holmes scored the likely goal of the round with a first time hit from at least 20 yards. She took Jenna Ibrahim completely by surprise with a long range, curling shot to give the league’s new arrivals a surprise lead.

Roisin Murphy score the equaliser almost immediately after half time, and despite some close calls that saw Spring Hill’s defence scramble the ball away, the scores remained level up until the final whistle.

Saturdays action saw Melbourne Victory’s U23 side travel to the Veneto Club to face The Bulleen Lions.  The Lions were without midfield maestro Sarah Cain and coach Caitlin Friend was serving a touchline ban following a tense semi-final at the end of last season.

Melbourne Victory were making their debut in this competition and were out to make an impact. Poppy O’Keefe pulled the strings in midfield to give Victory early control, while Emily Rutkowski was excellent at fullback.

Fiorina Iaria’s early chance skimmed just wide, but Victory broke the deadlock in the 14th minute when Leyla Hussein nodded home after Alyssa Dall ‘Oste saved a close range shot from Sienna Techera.

That goal was enough to win it. Despite Bulleen spending much of the second half looking dangerous, they could not find the equaliser, only the gloves of Chloe Mckenzie and the woodwork with a late corner.

The Lions will be sure to respond and improve as players regain fitness, but this was an incredible start for Melbourne Victory’s youngsters.

At Dorothy Laver Reserve, Alamein FC only needed one goal to defeat the star studded Avondale FC. Savanna Anastasopoulos scored on the edge of half time to give the home side the perfect start to their campaign.

Zoe Houghton’s cross from the right made it all the way to the far post and Anastasopoulos was able to control then finish on the turn with excellent technique.

Melbourne City were welcomed to the NPLW by an impressive Boroondara Eagles. Sarah Brunner scored a brace for the visiting team, using her pace and strength to burst clear and beat Dali Gorr-Burchmore for the opener. A contentious and slightly confusing penalty was later awarded to The Eagles from a corner kick. Kanako Higuchi made it 2-0 from the spot.

Zoe Bennett’s corner made it 3-0 to the visitors. The goal will go down as an own goal, but there was little anybody could do to deal with the quality of the curling delivery.

City forward Mary Brown pulled on back for the hosts to score their first ever NPLW goal. Her persistent and diligent pressing caused  a turnover from the goal kick in a classic case of “When Playing It Out From The Back Goes wrong”

Brunner extinguished any hopes of a comeback with an excellent solo goal in the 77th minute. after cruising into the penalty area from the right, she cut inside and finished at the near post to make it 4-1 for Boroondara.

In the final fixture of the round, premiers Heidelberg United hosted The Preston Lions at the Olympic Village. Valentine Pursey’s diving header won the day for Preston after she nodded on Rhiannon O’Looney’s cross after the winger created space for herself with some sparkling footwork.

New Preston goalkeeper Charlotte Hrehoresin excelled as The Lions defended their slim lead, with the single goal proving enough to earn three points.

The ladder does not mean much after one round, but South Melbourne currently occupy to spot with Boroondara scoring one goal less in their own big win. Round two will provide several intriguing clashes, with perhaps the most interesting being Bulleen and Avondale both looking to respond to losses and South and Preston facing off after wins.

In Appreciation of…Jade Tam

Screenshot

In previous seasons, this column has focussed on one main game and then recounted the big moments of the others. We are going to change things up a little with some appreciation of an individual player, moment or tactic in each round, something that stands out among all the action. The first edition of this will be Melbourne Victory’s Jade Tam.

It can sometimes be hard to write about central defenders. Except for an occasional spectacular clearance, they rarely make the highlight reel. If everything goes right,  a team keeps it shape and the tactics work, they can go relatively unnoticed.

But Tam was excellent at the back for Victory as they held on to  a 1-0 lead few neutrals expected them to have so early. Victory had to defend from the 15th minute against a Bulleen team with weapons on the pitch and bench, and Tam was crucial to their success on Saturday.

The clean sheet hints at everything going right for Victory, but although they were int control for the first 40 minutes, Bulleen started to work their way into the game and it felt like a goal was inevitable. Tam was able to clean up several chances before they became threats and reovered well when the likes of Maja Markovski and Ashley Jordan looked like they had broken free.

Her composure on the ball, helped Victory build from the back, and her long passing stretched the Bulleen defence, keeping them alert to Victory’s dangerous wingers.

This is not a team short on leadership, or experience despite their youthful lineup, but beating Bulleen on day one was still a big task for this team. The Lions are rarely held goalless, and Bulleen threw everything they had at Victory, but the defence held strong and Tam barely put a foot wrong under pressure at the back.

She’s a centre back that makes you feel calm and that helped Victory play some very impressive football.

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Meet the Dutch contenders: five teams, three UWCL spots

By Jan-Kees Joosse (17/1/26)

Above: FC Twente and Ajax locked in battle. Photo: Pro Shots NL.

Snow and icy pitches disrupted this weekend’s Eredivisie action. HERA United vs AZ was abandoned halfway through, after earlier cancellations of Utrecht vs Excelsior and Ajax vs NAC due to expected snowfall. In the end, only three matches reached the final whistle.

The toughest conditions were in Eindhoven, where even pitch heating couldn’t withstand the heavy snowfall. Yet PSV’s perseverance in those circumstances showed real maturity in a top clash against surprise package PEC Zwolle.

As the race tightens, it’s time to separate ambition from readiness in the battle for Champions League qualification. The snow may have frozen this round of fixtures, but the race for UWCL football is heating up.

Five teams are pushing for three UWCL qualification places:
FC Twente, Ajax, Feyenoord, PEC Zwolle, and PSV.

Thanks to three years of consistent European performances from FC Twente and Ajax, the Netherlands climbed from ninth to seventh in the UEFA coefficient rankings. As a result, the Eredivisie will have three teams entering the UWCL qualifiers next season.

But which three truly deserve those spots?

Feyenoord

Feyenoord deserve credit for their honesty. After their 1-1 draw against ADO Den Haag on Sunday, head coach Jessica Torny admitted her side is not yet ready to compete for the title. I agree.

They haven’t beaten any of the other title contenders. Two draws against PSV and narrow defeats to Ajax and FC Twente show progress – but mathematically and mentally, you cannot afford dropped points against teams like ADO if you haven’t taken points from direct rivals.

Still, Feyenoord are clearly the best of the rest. Their well-embedded playing style and stability in staffing show promise for a first real European adventure. I can see them doing well in Europe.

However, if they want to survive the qualifiers, they need more quality up front. A clinical finisher like Vivianne Miedema – who has expressed interest in ending her career at Feyenoord – would transform this team. But they cannot rely on something extraordinary happening. They must act decisively in the summer transfer window.

PEC Zwolle

I wouldn’t give PEC Zwolle the benefit of the doubt – yet.

There are simply too many “firsts” to feel secure about European readiness. It’s Gert Peter de Gunst’s first season as a head coach at this level. No player in the squad has experience playing two-legged European ties. The club also lacks a UEFA-approved women’s stadium.

Their results show strong coaching and tremendous potential in a young squad. But mentally, I don’t think they’re ready for Europe. The 3-0 loss to PSV showed the difference in maturity. PSV handled the snow and the pressure; PEC looked like they just wanted the final whistle.

This season should be a foundation. They would be wise to generate transfer revenue and continue building – perhaps literally – so this surge is more than a one-season wonder.

PSV

PSV are making a serious effort to elevate their women’s team. Investment from the men’s side – currently thriving under Peter Bosz – is clearly trickling down.

Experienced signings like Cayman and Shanice van de Sanden add leadership, while the club has also retained key international talents such as Nina Nijstad, Riola Xhemaili, and Chimera Ripa. Keeping players in their early-to-mid twenties signals ambition and financial commitment.

Their European campaign this season has been bumpy – heavy defeats mixed with big wins – but those experiences matter. They’ve built resilience.

The win over PEC Zwolle in extreme weather conditions was telling. Through slippery snow and freezing temperatures, PSV kept their focus on the bigger picture: win today, and Europe comes closer. Xhemaili, Ripa, and Van de Sanden showed a mentality edge over their opponents.

Given the level of investment, PSV owe it to themselves to make Europe count. And this time, not just participate – but succeed.

FC Twente

Despite their 5-1 victory over SC Heerenveen, it was an emotional day for FC Twente.

Jaimy Ravensbergen scored a hat-trick just hours after learning of her grandmother’s passing. With her family in the stands, she dedicated her first goal to her grandmother before running to embrace her parents in tears. She chose to play – no one forced her – and she played to make her grandmother proud.

Teammate Eva Oude Elberink said afterward: “Only Jaimy can do this.”

That moment reflects what FC Twente stands for: winning – and family. Especially within the women’s team, that collective spirit is part of the culture. When they go behind, they respond together. Time and again, they’ve shown they are a force in this league.

Twente are building toward sustained European recognition. The club has spoken about developing experience cycle by cycle, and that progress is visible. If key players like Ravensbergen stay, a knockout-stage run next season feels realistic. This year, they were unlucky in crucial late moments. Next season, those margins could fall their way.

Ajax

Ajax didn’t play this weekend due to weather conditions, but their long-term situation remains crucial.

I was pleased to see they didn’t sell players in the winter transfer window. After losing more than seven key players over recent seasons, stability is essential.

It’s vital they keep striker Danique Tolhoek and midfielder Danique Noordman. Both are in their early twenties and, alongside goalkeeper Regina van Eijk, have been their most consistent performers.

Ajax can no longer rely solely on youth potential to win titles. Those talents must now be the experienced core. If they continue fielding squads filled with teenagers, inconsistency is inevitable. PSV, PEC Zwolle, and Feyenoord are improving and will punish instability.

If Ajax lose Tolhoek and Noordman, I fear a very difficult season ahead – especially given the upward trajectory of PSV and Feyenoord.

Follow Jan for all the news about Dutch Women’s Football on www.fcleeuwinnen.nl. 

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Ward names settled squad for Girls in Green

By Alyce Collett (17/2/26)

Above: The Republic of Ireland will be looking to continue a strong run of momentum into a very important year of matches. Image: Ireland Football Twitter.

The first squad for the Republic of Ireland for 2026 has been revealed, with not too many surprises in the 23 player squad set to take on France and the Netherlands early next month.

The squad is a settled one, with it being largely the same as the one who upset Belgium to secure promotion to League A for 2026 and the squad who played a behind-closed-doors friendly against Hungary in December.

Courtney Brosnan, Megan Connolly and Leanne Kiernan are all in this squad after missing the Belgium matches with injuries, whilst Connolly and Amber Barrett are also in the squad after not being in the squad for the Hungary game.

Ruesha Littlejohn is also in the squad but her selection has drawn criticism because of her lack of minutes for club side Crystal Palace recently. Speaking to the media after the squad announcement, head coach Carla Ward confirmed that despite the lack of game minutes Littlejohn has been training consistently and that her presence in the squad is vital because she is “critical in terms of the environment and her leadership skills.”

Tara O’Hanlon and Kelly Brady are the two faces from the squad against Hungary who are not in this squad, while there was no room for Erin Healy or Jenna Slattery despite their recent excellent form. Heather Payne also did not make the squad.

The upcoming window is the start of a huge year for the Republic of Ireland, with the world number 27s looking to qualify for their second consecutive World Cup. The Girls in Green first host France at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin on March 3, before travelling to Utrecht to take on the Netherlands four days later.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND SQUAD UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE MARCH 2026

Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan, Grace Moloney and Sophie Whitehouse.

Defenders: Katie McCabe, Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, Hayley Nolan, Aoife Mannion, Chloe Mustaki and Jessie Stapleton.

Midfielders: Denise O’Sullivan, Megan Connolly, Lucy Quinn, Ruesha Littlejohn, Tyler Toland, Marissa Sheva and Jamie Finn.

Forwards: Abbie Larkin, Kyra Carusa, Amber Barrett, Saoirse Noonan, Leanne Kiernan and Emily Murphy.

Asian Cup Preview: South Korea

Above: The South Korean women’s national team lines up. Image: Yonhap.

By Genevieve Henry (17/2/26).

The South Korean Women’s National Team, known as Taegeuk Nangja (Taegeuk Ladies) are ready to compete in their 15th Asian Cup and will be looking to earn their first-ever trophy in the competition. Drawn into Group A, alongside Australia, Iran, and the Philippines, South Korea may not have the easiest path to victory. 

One of the stronger teams in Asia, South Korea has a few prominent players and plenty of impressive history under their belt. Recent results have been a mixed bag, including a 5-0 loss to the Netherlands and 1-1 tie with Wales– but against Asian opponents they have fared quite well. South Korea held both Japan and China to draws, beat Thailand, Uzbekistan, India, and Chinese Taipei, and only lost to Australia in a two-game series in April.

In late January, members of the South Korea team sent a statement to their federation threatening to boycott the Asian Cup for “harsh and unreasonable” conditions, especially relating to travel and accommodation. The statement was sent in September and outlined that the team would not participate in the tournament if the federation didn’t respond by October 17. The issue was supposedly solved in early February.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Kim Min-jeong (Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels), Ryu Ji-soo (Sejong Sportstoto), Woo Seo-bin (Seoul WFC)

Defenders: Kim Hye-ri (Suwon FC), Jang Sel-gi (Gyeongju KHNP), Choo Hyo-joo (Ottawa Rapid), Kim Jin-hui (Gyeongju KHNP), Ko Yoo-jin (Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels), Noh Jin-young (Mungyeong Sangmu), Shin Na-yeong (Brooklyn FC), Lee Min-hwa (Hwacheon KSPO)

Midfielders: Ji So-yun (Suwon FC), Choe Yu-ri (Suwon FC), Kang Chae-rim (Montreal Roses), Lee Eun-young (Gangjin Swans), Mun Eun-ju (Hwacheon KSPO), Kim Shin-ji (Rangers), Kim Min-ji (Seoul WFC), Jung Min-young (Ottawa Rapid), Park Soo-jeong (AC Milan), Song Jae-eun (Gangjin Swans), Park Hye-jeong (Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels)

Forwards: Son Hwa-yeon (Gangjin Swans), Casey Phair (Angel City), Choi Yoo-jung (Hwacheon KSPO), Jeon Yu-gyeong (Molde)

Head Coach:
Above: Shin Sang-woo speaks to the media. Image: Yonhap.

Shin Sang-woo, who took the reins as head coach in 2024, has a long history as a player and coach in South Korea. He played professionally from 1999 to 2011 before starting his journey as a coach in 2010. He coached WK League clubs Changnyeong WFC and Icheon Daekyo before its disbandment in 2017, as well as being the assistant coach at others. His most recent job was as the assistant coach for men’s K League 1 side Gimcheon Sangmu. This is his first experience in international football and certainly his most high-profile gig. He is contracted until 2028.

Asian Cup History:

Although they have racked up 14 appearances at the Asian Cup, South Korea are yet to bag a victory. They came closest in the latest edition in 2022, where they beat out Australia on their run to the final. 

How They Qualified:

South Korea qualified automatically as runners-up in the 2022 edition, their best run ever.

Strengths:

South Korea has been typically strong against both lower and higher-ranked opponents with adaptable tactics. Against teams like Australia and Japan, South Korea are comfortable to sit back and defend for long stretches and prove lethal on the counter attack. However, they can also dominate less experienced teams while maintaining possession and high pressure.

Development Areas:

South Korea does not have a very deep talent pool, with few players overseas in top leagues and a domestic league still in development. Due to the WK League’s semi-pro status, many players have to juggle careers outside of football, similar to the A-League Women. 

South Korea is also not known for being high-scoring, their excellence lying more in the midfield and defence. Especially against top opponents, South Korea doesn’t often score consistently or through many avenues. Significantly, they only have four players listed as forwards in their squad, which will be a concern if any are injured.

Key Players:
Above: Ji So-yun waves to fans at the World Cup. Image: Suwon FC.

South Korea’s top scorer and most capped player is Ji So-yun, who just relocated back to South Korea to compete for Suwon FC. The 35-year old has 171 caps and 74 goals for South Korea. Ji is best known for time in Chelsea colors, where she played for 8 years, scoring 37 goals and making 124 appearances. She is often regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world. Notably, it was her goal that sent South Korea to the semifinals of the 2022 edition of the Asian Cup, knocking out Australia. 

Choe Yu-ri anchors the midfield alongside Ji. The 31-year old is one of the most capped members of the squad and has 13 goals. Her defensive contributions are important in giving Ji the freedom to roam and attack. Choe also plays for Suwon Fc alongside Ji, making the partnership the most critical among the squad.

35-year old defender Kim Hye-ri captains South Korea, leading from the back. With 136 caps, she is one of the most experienced players in the team and maintains the side’s defense solidity with her leadership. Kim has spent the majority of her career in South Korea, playing for Seoul WFC and Hyundai Steel Red Angels, but moved to play for Wuhan Jiangda in China in 2025. In her youth career, Kim captained the U-20 team to finish third in the 2010 U-20 Women’s World Cup, becoming the first South Korean team to finish as high as third in a FIFA tournament.

One to Watch:

18-year old Casey Yu-Jin Phair burst onto the scene in 2023, becoming the youngest player to ever appear in the men’s or women’s World Cup. Her performances at the U-17 level had drawn notice, scoring 8 goals in 9 matches. The forward then signed to Angel City in 2024, where she made few appearances. Although Angel City signed her to a three-year deal, she was loaned out to Swedish club Djurgården. She is now back at Angel City. Her best performances have largely come in the South Korean kit, scoring 4 goals in 17 appearances for her country. She is also the first multiracial player to represent South Korea at a World Cup. 

Success Would Be:

If South Korea makes it to the semifinals, it will be a small victory. While they are certainly one of the stronger teams in the tournament, it could be the luck of the draw that determines their fate. 

Prediction:

Quarterfinal exit, but win the play-off to continue in their quest for World Cup qualification. This is a strong side, but without the level of high-profile players that the other top teams in Asia have, South Korea will need excellent tactics. There’s not much room for error in this tournament, as South Korea reminded Australia in 2023.

Fixtures:

1st March — South Korea vs Iran, 7pm, Gold Coast Stadium

5th March — Philippines vs South Korea, 1pm, Gold Coast Stadium

8th March — Australia vs South Korea, 8pm, Stadium Australia

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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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