Ambitious Eagles on the dawn of a second chance

by Alyce Collett (6/9/26)

Above: Crystal Palace are back in the WSL after only one season away from the top flight, but will things go better this time around? Photo: via WSL Football.

It is a historic day for Crystal Palace, because after only one season away from the top flight of English women’s football the Eagles are back.

If you talk to anyone in the Crystal Palace camp, they are ambitious and certainly not overawed by the challenge in front of them this season as they get set to take on Everton this afternoon.

Crystal Palace stalwart Molly-Mae Sharpe spoke to the media ahead of the new season, and she noted that her side has taken plenty of lessons from the last time they were in the Women’s Super League, back in 2024/25.

“We obviously want as many points on the board as we can in the early days” Sharpe said.

“But I think it’s also a lot going to be about our performance. You’ve seen in the WSL a lot of times where teams might be pinned in and they get out with a one-nil win or they end up drawing against the big teams, and I think results like that are going to be really important.

“But we are looking to make a statement in this league. We’re not here to make up the numbers. We certainly don’t think that. So we want to do well, and we want to get as many points on the board early as we possibly can.”

Sharpe also confirmed that the team’s past WSL experience has helped them prepare slightly different for this campaign compared to last time.

“I think this year we’re not taking anything for granted” Sharpe explained

“We know that it’s going to be a fight every single week, every single day in training. You’re fighting against your teammates to make them better and make yourself better, and I think that’s something we’re all taking very seriously this year.

“Also when it comes to analysis, stuff like that, pre-season, everything’s been very professional and well set out for us, and everything’s thought out from the minute we get here till the minute we leave.

“So I think that’s all been really good. But I think, like I said, the main part is not being naive this year. We know it’s going to be a fight. We know we’re going to win games, we’re going to lose games, we’re going to draw games, but it’s just about getting them results and making sure we can, whatever the result is, let it go quickly and move on to the next week.”

Normally the promoted side really struggles to stay in the top flight for more than one season in a row – the notable exception being London City – but Sharpe agreed that trying to stay up is made easier this time around because Palace are not the only newly promoted team.

“We are in the same boat as Birmingham and Charlton, but I think we probably have a little bit of edge that we’ve been there, done that, and we didn’t do it clearly very well enough to stay up” Sharpe said.

“So I think now we’ve got that experience. We know what it takes to stay in this league, and it’s something we’re certainly going to do and going to try our best to do.

“But I think having Birmingham and Charlton coming up as well, they’re the games we’re going to look at and think ‘Girls, we want the points from these games.’ That’ll help bump us up in the league, definitely.”

Crystal Palace have been ambitious in their offseason signings, bringing in a number of experienced players like Molly Bartrip and Beth England.

“I think obviously bringing Molly and Beth in, already they’ve already showed leadership skills in and around training and games that we’ve played so far” Sharpe explained.

“I think especially Beth brings a wealth of experience, national team level as well, which I think will help, and at the end of the day, we need to score goals to win.

“Molly’s going to help us not let goals in, and Beth’s going to help us score goals, and I think at the end of the day, that’s what we need. We need to score goals, and we need to get points on the board.”

Crystal Palace’s return to the Women’s Super League kicks off later today when they host Everton at the VBS Community Stadium.

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“Trust the process” says Everton star ahead of new campaign

by Alyce Collett (6/9/26)

Above: Maz Pacheco and her Everton team mates will certainly be looking for a much more straightforward season than last year was. Photo: via Everton Women.

It is the dawn of a new season for Everton, with the Toffees looking to build upon a 2025/26 season that could have gone better but also could have gone much worse.

Speaking to Impetus Football ahead of today’s season opener against Crystal Palace, Everton star Maz Pacheco had one simple message for the fans.

 “I think trust the process is a big one” Pacheco said.

“It’s a project. Obviously we’re not like the Arsenals with massive budget, London City with a huge budget, but we do have quality players and I think just get behind the girls, get behind the manager, and they’ll see the quality pull through.”

Pacheco was forthright in her summary of how last season went for Everton, which saw the side finish in eighth place on the table for the third season in a row.

“It was, I say, a rollercoaster” Pacheco said.

“We had a lot of ups, we had a lot of downs. It wasn’t quite smooth sailing as I think all of us wanted.

“Obviously, there was a lot of change of staff, a lot of change of manager into a new one, so our boat wasn’t as steady as we’d have liked. But I feel like you could see the quality we had in the group, especially against your Arsenals, Chelsea away, Man City.

“So it’s like this season we want to capitalize on that and make sure we perform majority of the games that we play. That’s what we’re looking for in the new season.”

Pacheco also said that the mood in the group ahead of the season has “been good, very exciting.”

“Obviously, we’ve got a bunch of new players coming in, and obviously it’s getting to know them as well as, as getting to know Scott [Phelan, new permanent Everton head coach] still. Because Scott did come in halfway through the season, so it’s still getting to know his style and how he wants us to play” Pacheco said.

“But the mood of the group I think is very excited. We’re all having fun, and we’ve got a good bunch around us.”

It was another busy offseason for Everton on the signing front, bringing in a number of new players such as Holly McNamara, Julia Rantala and Naomi Layzell.

“I think we’ve got a bunch of personality” Pacheco said when asked about what her new teammates have brought to the group.

“Obviously they’re very good on the pitch, very direct players. We’ve got a lot of players that filled gaps that we had.

“Obviously we’ve let a few girls go last season, we needed to recruit, but definitely just hardworking, technical ability, and just exciting players. So I think that’s something that the fans will look forward to next season.”

The preseason just finished is Pacheco’s second at Everton, and she described it as “Very, very, very different I’d say” from her first at the club.

“I’m much more settled now” Pacheco noted.

“I’m settled into being more of a senior player, which is quite new for me. I think I’m always used to being the young one that I can get away with murder. But obviously, as the years have gone on – which I’ve not realized – I’m getting older, I’m getting more towards 30 and there’s some 19, 21 year olds that like to remind me, like Ruby Mace, that I’m an old one in the squad.

“So yeah I feel a bit more settled, feel like a little bit more of a leader, which is being quite nice, but also being challenged at left back. Obviously we’ve got me and Hika[ru Kitagawa] who can play there and it’s been very competitive between us, which has been a learning curve and I’ve enjoyed it.”

On a personal note, Pacheco’s goals for the upcoming season were simple and straightforward.

“I think for me to be a starting 11 player, make an impact on the pitch” Pacheco explained.

“So whether that’s my defending or attacking, and definitely become more of a leader.”

Everton’s Women’s Super League season kicks off later today when they visit Crystal Palace at the VBS Community Stadium.

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Renee Slegers’ Press Conference

By Chloe Reynolds (5/10/26)

Above: Renee Slegers smiling in training before her side faces Brighton. Photo: Arsenal FC

Arsenal face off against Brighton & Hove Albion in their WSL season opener and head coach Renee Slegers sat down with the media to address her side’s targets for the season, how the summer transfer window went, and how they have prepared for their opponents.

Slegers shared the team news for the weekend revealing that the game comes a little bit too soon for deadline day signing Elisa De Almeida.

“Our rehab players at the moment are Daphne van Domselaar, Katie Reid, and Michelle Agyemang, and everyone else is fit to play.  

“(it) will probably be too early for Elisa, first day, yesterday, her visa had to come through, no training for her today.

“So, there will be one session to then go in. So, it’s probably a little bit too early. We really want to get it right with her.”

The Gunners have had an extremely successful transfer window, signing eight players including some big names such as Ona Batlle and Georgia Stanway, and Slegers has said that this transfer window was a long time in the making.

“I think the work that’s been going on in the background for a long time between Claire, Jody, Kevin, and their recruitment department.

“It’s been so strong, so we’ve been planning for this window for a long time. Of course, age is part of what we look at as one of the factors.

“So, really happy that we get players in their prime ages where we see this. They’re at their prime, but there’s more to come from these players.


“But also, the younger ones that we were so happy. We got them on board. They chose us. They want to be part of Arsenal as well, if you look at Isabella and Lisa, they’re young, but they’re so mature for their age, and I’m really, really impressed with where they are and the courage that they’ve shown, the humility that they’ve shown as well.


“So, yeah, age plays a role in the decisions we make and I think with all these coming in, I’m so happy with the strategy behind it.”

It’s been a long time since Arsenal have won the WSL title, and the Dutch head coach has spoken about her ambitions of lifting that trophy in May.

“That’s something we’re going after, and of course we are because we Arsenal and that’s something we should have as a goal, so definitely the WSL.


“I think last time was 2018/2019 for Arsenal. And yeah, there’s a real hunger. Of course, there’s other competitions, the draw for Champions League was today (September 4) and there’s the FA Cup.

“So, those competitions are very important for us as well, but the WSL that’s something because it’s with the two teams coming in, there’s more games, it’s symbolic for endurance and consistency, and that’s something where we really have our mind set.”

Brighton have recently announced that they have a new coach in Arturo Ruiz and Slegers spoke about the quality the Seagulls have.

“I think they’re a good team. They know when to press and press aggressively and make spaces small quickly, but they also know how to be patient and make it really compact in front of their goals.

“So yeah, it’s been hard games for us, we acknowledge that. We won the game at the Emirates but the other two weren’t the results we wanted, we look forward to the challenge and we know that there’s things that they will make hard for us.


“And of course, there’s a big belief in what we’re doing at the moment, the quality that we possess and the different tools that we have to use on Sunday. So, I really look forward to the input.”

It will be a tough start to the season for the Gunners as they will have Champions League games falling alongside WSL encounters, and Slegers has shared how she plans to manage the squad.

“What we’ve done in the window that we have so many good players that can play for us when the short turnarounds come and when we see necessary.


“Of course, we prepare for the opposition that we’re going to face. So, there’s a lot of preparation. We have our ideas, but then it’s still when the moments are there, we have to see how everything is playing out in the moment.

“So, there’s still a lot of course, late decision making in those short turnarounds and stuff.”

Arsenal face Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday with the game kicking off at 12:00.

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NPLW Vic R26: Congratulations to Box Hill United

By Kieran Yap 2/9/26

Above: Box Hill celebrates their premiership. Photo: Box Hill United Pythagoras Instagram. Ashley Perez Photography

Box Hill United are the premiers of 2026. Last year’s Grand Final winners ended a convincing campaign on top of the table after a win away against Melbourne City. Elsewhere, Essendon Royals ended the year in second place, South Melbourne are set to meet Bulleen and Avondale will face Boroondara.

There was still plenty to play for in the final round of the Victorian NPLW. While Box Hill were highly favoured to get a result against their relegated opposition, Essendon held out hope of a miracle, but needed a win against a South Melbourne side who also needed to guarantee their own finals spot.

South Melbourne began in the ascendancy on their way to a 3-1 win at Lakeside Stadium, and took full advantage of that early momentum. Alexis Pantazopoulos was an early menace for the home side and opened the scoring in the 23rd minute. The striker beat Zara Board to the ball out side, and finished from an improbable angle and distance.

Pantazopoulos was the creator of South’s second goal in the 27th minute. Her wizardly out wide ended with another optimistic shot that bounced off the bar in favour of Emily Collier. She finished unopposed to make it 2-0.

But Essendon always score, and although Golden Boot winner Kelli McGroarty was relatively well marshalled by the South backline, she still found ways to cause problems. A cushioned first touch and incisive pass almost set up Maggie Jenkins for a goal. McGroarty later converted a penalty to pull one back before half time.

Essendon grew into the game and after going two goals down, they generally controlled play. Grace Maher dropped deeper, Jenkins and Akeisha Sandhu’s influence grew, but although they created chances, South Melbourne’s defence led by Bella Wallhead and driven by a terrific Grace Taranto performance held strong.

South secured the win when Emily Roach sent a curling ball in after a corner was partially cleared. Annebel Haffenden rose highest to nod it past Board to make it 3-1.

It would turn out to be a crucial result, with Alamein FC chasing a spot in the top six.

They gave themselves every chance to leapfrog South with a 2-0 win at home against Bulleen Lions. Neven Duston’s penalty set up the result, which was sealed late by former Bulleen forward Anais Josefski in the 93rd minute.

Bulleen could not drop below fourth place or go above third in the final round, so with their finals path set, they rested several usual starters. Maja Markovski, Tiffany Eliadis, Claudia Mihocic and Olivia Bomford all started on the bench. Alyssia Ierardo started in goal ahead of Alyssa Dall’ Oste.

Alamain tried to attack from the outset. Summer Laskey was an early danger in the opening half and Emma Runnalls also tested the Bulleen goalkeeper. Bulleen were for the most part restricted to long range efforts. Alamein’s fullback’s Jessica Shilton and Chelsea Blissett restricted Bulleen’s strength out wide.

Josefski’s eventual sealer was a brilliant goal. She raced onto a long ball from defence and ther finish to loft the ball over Ierardo at full pace was beautiful to watch.

The win gave Alamein faint hope of finals football, but they fell short by three points in another strong season.

Boroondara Eagles ended the campaign in sixth place following a 2-2 draw with Keilor Park. Abby Holmes was the hero for the visitors, giving them a 2-0 lead before the hour mark. Runa Komidori’s long free kick was met with a brave header running towards goal by Holmes who directed the ball past Mia Mossman for the opener.

Holmes brought up her brace in the 52nd minuts with a late contender for goal of the season. Komidori’s free kick was the source once again, and Holmes equalled her previous bravery with brilliant technique for her second. She angled her body and scored with an athletic overhead kick to double the lead for the visitors.

Boroondara can never realty be counted out though and Madeline Darragh’s high cross set up Geneveive Fontes to pull one back with a leaping back post header. Fonte’s equalled Holmes’s tally for the game with a 90th minute strike to pull the sides level and give Boroondara a precious point to insure against Alamein’s win elsewhere.

Heidelberg United ended their campaign with a 1-0 win against Bentleigh Greens. Rosie Wild’s 25th minute header was enough to win the game. This was Bentleigh’s last game in the NPLW for now. They were essentially relegated long ago, but deserve plaudits for the way that they attacked the second half of the season. Bentleigh still  had one of the most impressive transfer windows in the league and played some highly entertaining football in the second half of the season, but could not recover from the way they started in the league.

That effort may not be in vain, although the two sides promoted from the VPL have signally their intention to play in the top tier, there is always a chance something will change off-field and Bentleigh can received a lifeline after finishing above Melbourne City.

Preston Lions ended their year on a high, coming from a goal down to win 2-1 against Melbourne Victory’s U23’s.

Sienna Saveska’s trickery in attack set up Leyla Hussein to score the first goal of the game, Melbourne City bound Aimee Medwin ran from deep to overall Erika Di Tella and score from wide to draw the side’s level.

Victory conceded again almost directly from the kick off. Valentine Pursey’s terrific form of late continued when she battled in the six yard box to make room and finish off Eva Harrington’s cross.

Neither side’s ladder position could change from this game, but it was good for Preston to end their campaign on a positive note after showing plenty of potential in an ultimately  inconsistent year.

Avondale FC jumped to third with a 5-1 win away against  Spring Hills FC. The visitors started strongly. Sloane Young had two efforts on goal before Hannah Wilkinson intercepted a short back pass and set up Alana Bogers to finish into an empty net on 25 minutes.

Wilkinson doubled the lead soon after with a terrific first-time finish. Asuka Miyata’s tackle spilled the ball into the path of the former Football Fern and she scored her 18th goal of the season.

The attacks kept coming from Avondale and Aideen Keane’s pace set up Young for their third early in the second half. Beattie Goad scored their fourth to complete a patient end-to-end passing move that she helped start in midfield.

Keane made it 5-0 with a tidy finish in the 87th minute to cap off a near complete performance from Avondale, but Aleks Sinclair provided the home side with a late consolation goal in added time. The Spring Hills star won the ball after a speculative pass forward and kept her composure to give the home side something to celebrate on a tough afternoon.

Now to Casey Fields where Box Hill United only needed a draw to be crowned Premiers of 2026. Given that they were facing bottom placed Melbourne City, most at the club would have been confident of that result, and started in typically swashbuckling style.

Rhianna Pollicina tested Dali Gorr Burchmore twice in the opening exchanges, but the Junior Matildas goalkeeper was in strong form.

Kiara Berecelli’s attempt from distance was on target, but once against Gorr Burchmore was equal to the task.

It took until the hour mark for Box Hill to find the breakthrough. Sofia Sakalis provided a perfect pass to split the defence and Maho Murakami’s eventual shot was spilled into the path of Kawano who scored her 10th of the season.

To City’s credit, they defended well for the remainder of the game, But Box Hill looked like they knew they had it in bag. They maintained the lead comfortably and earned their first top place finish in NPLW history.

In Appreciation of Box Hill United.

What a season Box Hill Pythagoras have had under coach Kogulan Sabaratnam. After winning the championship in sauntering style last year, they started 2026 in much the same form. From Round One they looked dangerous and barely put a foot wrong throughout the campaign, losing only four times and playing some outstanding football.

Box Hill passed the ball quickly, their forwards interchanged and they had numerous targets each capable of creating something out of nothing. Erin Keyt established herself as one of the league’s best players in the opening weeks, Kiara Bercelli ended with 18 assists off the wing, and Kawano grew into the season to become another consistent goal scorers.

Rhianna Pollicina, Holly Murray and Carina Rossi each added A-League experience to the side. Rossi scored five goals in just six appearances, while Murray and Laura Pickett reinforced the side defensively as Pollicina pulled the strings alongside Murakami in midfield.

Late in the home and away rounds, Sofia Sakalis rejoined the squad. The club legend feels like a new signing on the eve of finals and is the type of player most clubs could only dream of signing. Box Hill had the luxury of brining Sakalis in after a well earned rest and she looks deadly, sharp and hungry for more silverware.

Keeley Segavcic was one of the signings of the season. The former Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper was a crucial part of the clubs success and likely helped give them the confidence to attack so freely.

Leading Box Hill was captain Sofia Palywoda. In a season where she interchanged between midfield and defence, Palywoda was the foundation of Box Hill’s success and a beacon of consistency and stability in a team that derived strength and belief from her presence.

Box Hill have been a thrill to watch. Last season was no fluke, they have looked unbeatable at times, and are deserved premiers. Now they will have a week’s rest before a semi final and a chance at more glory.

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NPLW VIC R25: Box Hill in the box seat, Victory have a season to be proud of

By Kieran Yap 26/8/26

Above: Melbourne Victory’s NPLW squad. Photo: Passion Creations

The premiership is going down to the final day, Boroondara secure finals football, and Maja wins another Markovski derby for Bulleen Lions.

Friday night saw Bentleigh Greens face off against Preston Lions with both sides looking to end the season on a high. What proceeded was a fairy even but still attacking match that saw both sides denied by strong goalkeeping and missed opportunities for a 0-0 draw.

Mizuho Yamada was the first player to test Melissa Barbieri in the Bentleigh goal. Valentine Pursey and Fiorina Iaria were next to bring out saves from the NPL icon. Pursey’s chance was one of the best attacking passages of play for the game and resulted in one of the saves of the round. Holly Massie’s slick backheel set Pursey up directly in front of goal, but Barbieri stretched to the top corner to deny her.

The home side’s best chances of the first half came through Kaitlin Tolios and Kiera Meyers. Both had efforts from the edge of the box comfortably dealt with by Charlotte Hrehoresin

Bentleigh had more shots in the second half, but Preston were well set up defensively. Anastasia Theodosiou and Kate Dunne both had good attempts but were too far out to trouble Hrehoresin.

On Saturday, Box Hill United defeated Keilor Park SC 3-0 in a fairly routine win by their standards. Rhianna Pollicina was a standout for the visitors throughout the game, and she set up Kiara Bercelli to get things started early. Her cross in the fourth minute set up Juri Kawana for the easiest of finishes.

Pollicina scored Box Hill’s second after half time. After repeated attempts on goal, the playmaker tricked her way into a little bit of space at the edge of the box and rifled her effort into the top corner.

Box Hill then flexed their depth. Sakalis and Bercelli exited the field to be replaced by Gabrielle Simpson and Erin Keyt and Box Hill’s dominance continued.

Pollicina was once again at the heart of the third goal. Her corner kick was perfectly delivered and met by captain Sofia Palywoda to end the days scoring.

Despite the scoreline, Keilor were dedicated and determined in defence. Maggie Byrne backed up her performance last week with another solid outing and although Box Hill had 16 shots on goal for the game, plenty were blocked or from long range.

But scoring feels like an inevitability for them and the goals can come from anywhere. Adding a player like Sakalis to the lineup in the last few weeks is a boast that few clubs can match and Bercelli now had 18 assists for the season. Box Hill only need a draw against Melbourne City in Round 26 to be crowned premier’s but they will be pursued until the final minutes by Essendon.

Essendon Royals were done no favours by Keilor Park, but did their part in the 3-1  win over Heidelberg United.

The rampant Royals established early momentum over the side they defeated in the Nike Fc Cup final. Akeisha Sandhu’s 11th minute corner kick causes chaos and after bouncing around the box, the goal was eventually scored by Ayano Koizumi’s half volley.

Kelli McGroarty scored her now customary goal for Essendon’s second immediately after. A visit for Key Cross Reserve is incomplete without a McGroarty goal and she scored the best of the game after shifting feet and launching a rocket from 18 yards.

Maggie Jenkins played a big part in creating that opportunity. Her flick over her opponent’s head and square pass opened up the initial space, and the Perth Glory bound striker added another of her own to seal the result.

The New Zealand international flicked on Bronte Peel’s perfectly flighted pass to nod the ball beyond Mia Bailey for Essendon’s third before half time.

To Heidelberg’s credit, the game did not descend into a  whitewash. Sarah Assuma’s cool finish on the counter attack gave the visitors some hope with half an hour to play, but Essendon are now accustomed to winning and even without Grace Maher or Bella Sewards, they never looked like surrendering the lead.

Essendon now face a trip to South Melbourne in Round 26, they need a win and hope for a miracle from Melbourne City to claim a second trophy of the season.

Avondale FC kept their hopes of a third place finish alive after coming back from three goals down to draw 3-3 with Boroondara Eagles. In a fairly open game, it was Boroondara who gained the early upper hand. Their pressing game created early opportunities that shook the woodwork curtsy of Priya Savarirayan.

Eventually, they were rewarded for the bright start. Sarah Brunner burst down the left flank, cut inside and threaded a well-placed pass for Genevieve Fontes to slot home.

Brunner doubled the lead herself, getting behind the defence, rounding the goalkeeper and maintaining her balance to make it 2-0 in the 28th minute.

Fontes had a brace before half time when she turned the ball in after Savarirayan’s cross evaded everyone else. The first shot was blocked, but Fontes made no mistake on the rebound and the score was 3-0 to Boroondara at half time.

Avondale regained the upper hand in the second half, but found Taylen Wolf in spectacular form. Shots from Hannah Wikinson, Aideen Keane and Asuka Miyata were all stopped by the Eagles goalkeeper and  it looked as though it was never going to happen for the hosts.

In the 80th minute, the game turned on its head. Elise Kellond-Knight’s corner caused a goalmouth scramble and Beattie Goad pulled one back for Avondale.

Keanes pace began to cause problems for Boroondara and she set up Sloane Young for the home side’s second. Young still had plenty to do when she received the cut back, and finished from an acute angle. 3-2 in the 82nd minute.

Heartbreak for Boroondara and elation for Avondale arrived just a minute later. Aideen Keane controlled a high ball into the box and slammed her shot beyond Wolf for an 83rd minute equaliser. The was a thrilling game, that probably deserved a draw, but will feel like three points lost for Boroondara, while serving as another ominous reminder of what Avondale FC are capable of.

An injury time winner by Anastazia Simic gave Melbourne Victory a dramatic 2-1 win over Alamein FC.

Victory scored an early opener when Sienna Saveska intercepted a clearance by Miranda Templeman. With the Alamein goalkeeper having lost her footing and scrambling to get back into position, Saveska curled the ball into the net from 18 yards.

Emma Runnalls brought Alamien level in the second half. Her finish from a set piece was the result of a well-worked corner routine. It was 1-1 in a game where chances seemed hard to come by.

Victory’s winner arrived when a draw looked certain. Simic scoring her first for the season with a goal that was unfortunately cut out by the broadcast.

It was a costly defeat for Alamein, who are within touching distance of the top six. But they need a win next weekend against Bulleen Lions and hope that a motivated Essendon outscore South Melbourne.

A high scoring afternoon at The Veneto Club saw Bulleen Lions defeat Spring Hills FC 3-2 in dramatic fashion. Maja Markvoski was the hero in the win over her the side coached by her father, but it looked like the visitors day for most of the match.

Bulleen took the lead in the 25th minute through Cartherine Renehan. Bulleen have a reputation for scoring from set pieces but this was still a shock. Renehan delivered from deep, and the ball somehow sailed over everyone and directly into the net.

Lauren Antonello equalised for Spring Hills in the 29th minute following a direct and pacey attack from the visitors. Antonello rounded Alyssa Dall’ Oste for a simple finish to make it 1-1.

Spring Hills had the wind in their sails and seized the moment. Roisin Murphy’s run down the left ended with a well placed cross that Bulleen could not deal with. Rachel Gillies turned the ball in to give her side the lead in the 32nd minute.

Bulleen have fight, depth, and a striker seemingly determined to establish household bragging rights. Maja Markovski drew the sides level early in the second half. Tiffany Eliadis’s deep cross causes panic and Markovski kept her head and feet to slot the ball past Ayana Aoyagi.

That same combination delivered the late winner. Eliadis curled the pass behind the Spring Hills defence and Markovski lofted the ball into the net with an athletic and well place finish.

Bulleen are out of the title race, but can maintain their hold on third place with a win away to Alamein FC next week. Spring Hills gave the home side a scare, but they found a way in front of their fans.

Bulleen’s form may have been up and down in the second half of the season, but they may be in a good position in finals, they have a strong, experienced team and crucially will likely not lose many key players to A-League pre-season.

Goals to Bella Wallhead, Clancy Westaway and Heidi Dalton gave South Melbourne a 3-0 win at home against Melbourne City.

Wallhead scored the first goal within minutes of kickoff. The star defender sent a glancing header across goal and into the far corner of the net. City managed  to regain some possession if not momentum and prevent the floodgates opening, but could not create any chances themselves.

Emily Roach forced Dali Gorr Burchmore into two saves before half time, while Alexis Pantazopoulos tried her luck from distance.

South eventually doubled the advantage midway through the second half. Westaway was on the spot and reacted quickest to score her third of the NPLW season.

Heidi Dalton added the icing on the cake deep into added time. The substitute striker scored with a header following a well-organized free kick routine by South Melbourne.

The win sees South sit just inside the top six, three points clear of Alamein FC and two behind Boroondara. They will need a result against Essendon in the final round to be certain of their place in the finals.

In Appreciation of Melbourne Victory’s debut season

Melbourne Victory will finish in eight place, seven points off a finals position, but they have had a season to be proud of. The inaugural Victory side made an impact of the league and allowed fans of the A-League Women club to stay excited about the shirt in the off-season.

Victory started strong. A Round One win over Bulleen Lions was hard fought and impressive. Under then-coach Santi Escudero, they showed that they could match it and beat the best in the state.

Results for the rest of the season were mixed, and player availability became an issue, but they overcame the absences of Poppy O’Keeffe (Young Matildas duty), Chloe Mckenzie, (injury), Emily Rutkoswki (transferred overseas), Fiorina Iaria (Preston Lions) and Rosie Curtis to remain competitive throughout the season and finish with a respectable ladder posotion for a youth side in their first season.

Ironically, had Victory’s A-League Team not made the finals, player availability might have meant the NPLW side did, but that is part of the juggling act the club had to manage.

More than a few players distinguished themselves, and have hopefully given Jeff Hopkins something to consider for the upcoming A-League Women campaign.

Jasmine Millar developed into one of the most consistent young attackers in the NPLW . Her 10 goal contributions made her Victory’s leading threat.

O’Keeffe reaffirmed her reputation as a midfielder you can build a team around. The deep lying playmaker operated at 86% passing accuracy, often under pressure. Leyla Hussein earned a junior Matildas call up off the back of five goals and three assists with one game still to play.

Porscha Tam and Aeryn Tarrant continued on their respective path’s to becoming top tier defenders and Mila Bulic joined them as a player to watch.

Avoiding relegation was a priority for these players, and they did that easily, but for the coaches and staff, the main goal was to develop players capable of senior, professional football.

Over the course of this season, these young players took significant steps toward that goal. Victory played a confident, attacking style of football and scored some impressive goals, the liked of Sienna Techera and Sienna Saveska only enhanced already sparkling reputations, while Ella O’Grady has fans calling for her to be the main striker in Round One of the A-League season.

These players will continue to improve, but on the strength of this season alone, and based on the progress of the individual players, the project already looks to have been a success.

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

NPLW Vic R24: Byrne stands tall for for Keilor & Meyers dazzles for Bentleigh

By Kieran Yap 18/8/26

Above: Kiera Meyers (right) is congratulated for her goal. Photo: Passion Creations

The premiership race is wide open in Victoria’s top tier, but the top two remains unchanged after Round 24 of the NPLW Victoria.

There was a flurry of action on Friday night when Box Hill United hosted Avondale FC  in a 1-1 draw at Wembley Park. The visitors were without Taylor Ray and Aideen Keane. The Melbourne City winger was away with A-League All Stars duty and her ability in the final third was missed against the league leaders.

Box Hill welcomes back Sofia Sakalis to the starting lineup for the first time since last year’s Grand Final, but were without Carina Rossi and Erin Keyt for the must-win match.

Sakalis was instrumental for the opening goal, creating the first real chance of the game for Juri Kawano to slot home in the 17th minute. Beattie Goad tried to respond for the visitors but did not trouble Keeley Segavcic.

Things looked set for another Box Hill win in a game of few opportunities, but Sloane Young danced into the box to force an equaliser through an own goal in the 81st minute.

Sakalis and Kawano both tried to win the game with strikes from distance, but the score remain deadlocked in what might be a costly draw for both sides.

Heidelberg United’s good week continued. After winning their midweek match against Keilor park 2-0, with  goals from Olivia Wood and Iren Razumic, they backed that up with a 2-1 defeat of Melbourne City.

The youngsters had a larger share of the possession, and nearly opened the scoring through Eva Chopin, but Mia Bailey got behind the effort. They opened the scoring in the 31st minute when Chelsea Biggs showed impressive acceleration to skip clear and slot the ball into the net from a tight angle.

Heidelberg went on the attack in the second half. Maia Heysen almost scored from close range and the shots kept coming through Heyley Geurts and Haley Phillips.

Rosie Wild perhaps came closest, but her effort was stopped by a well positioned Dali Gorr Burchmore.

Heidelberg eventualyl turned the game around in the space of what seemed like a few minutes. Sarah Assumma’s terrific solo effort drew the sides level in the 74th minute. The striker collected a cross from deep by Samantha Curwood-Wanger. Her first touch took her beyond the immediate challenge, then she skipped past another before finishing from inside the six yard box.

Abigail Winstanley provided the winning goal just five minutes later. Assumma was heavily involved once again. Her driving run and eventual cross fell for Winstanley to hook the ball into the net despite close attention from a defender.

It was a tough loss for City, who acquitted themselves well against seasoned opposition, but in the end Heidelberg’s experience, coupled with recent form and Assumma’s class awarded the points to the home side.

Sienna Techera’s fifth minute strike got Melbourne Victory off to the perfect start in their visit to Bentleigh Greens. The winger turned the ball home after a Victory corner was only partially cleared in one of the first attacks of the match.

Mia Otero tried to replicate last round’s effort against Essendon, but although her long range effort was on target, it did not trouble Shaylee Lane in goal.

It was an attacking game, with Victory creating slightly more chances. Jasmine Millar and Anika Doveaston both tried to double the lead, but despite their best efforts, Victory could not maintain the advantage.

Kiera Meyers’ fine form continued when she scored her third of the league this season and a candidate for goal of the year.

Her clever dummy along the wing sent her free of the first defender. A change of pace and some quick footwork took her past Aeryn Tarrant and she held off the challenge from Emmy Traynor to finish from close range.

It was a run from near halfway, that combined explosive athleticism, clear headed composure and excellent finishing.

Otero scored her second is as many games when she nodded home Savannah Oxley’s corner in the 71st minute. Karina Tolios scored the sealer in the 78th to from Kate Dunn’s curling free kick to give Bentleigh a 3-1 result, and their third win of the season.

Essendon Royals continued to chase the premiership with an emphatic 5-1 win against Preston Lions.

Preston playmaker Hollie Massey gave the home side the lead in the 12th minute. Fiorina Iaria’’s run down the right created momentary chaos in the Essendon defence and Massey reacted quickest to slam the ball home from close range.

From that moment on though, it was all Essendon. The Royals don’t just create chances, they create chances close to goal so scoring feels inevitable. 12 of their shots came from inside the penalty area for the duration of the game and it was Bronte Peel’s 44th minute effort that brought the scores level.

Grace Maher’s long pass was flicked on by Maggie Jenkins and Peel made no mistake from close range. Ayano Koizumi’s long range rocket soon after half time gave Essendon a well-deserved lead in the 53rd minute.

Jenkins made it 3-1 in the 62nd minute. Kelli McGroarty provided a touch of class to control another long pass from Maher and although Olivia Edwards looked to have gotten a tackle in, Jenkin’s raced onto the ball and tucked it home.

It doesn’t feel like a Royals game unless McGroarty scores these days, and the Golden Boot leader added two more to her tally to end the contest in Essendon’s favour.

First came a well placed finish from the edge of the box after Jenkin’s powerful run through midfield, then she ended the evening on a high note with a header to finish Cobi Wilbert’s inch-perfect cross.

The win means that Essendon are only one point behind Box Hill United with a significantly stronger goal difference. Their next two matches come against Heidelberg United and South Melbourne as they chase their second trophy of the season.

In another important result for the top six. Alamein FC won their game away to Spring Hills FC 3-0.

Alamein began the game on the front foot and were rewarded when Emma Runnalls scored in just the second minute. Despite the numbers that Spring Hills had in defence, Runnalls leapt highest to head beyond Ayan Aoyagi in goal before anybody had time to settle into proceedings.

Jessica Shilton doubled the lead in the 44th minute. She jumped at the ball from a curling corner kick to make it 2-0 and cement the visitors control over the game.

Chances were rare and Spring Hills struggled to create much on the ball. Olivia Anderson’s long range effort in the shadows of half time did not trouble Miranda Templeman, and was the home side’s only shot on target for the game.

 Alamein made sure that the scoreline reflected their performance in the 63rd minute. Priya Archdeacon’s long run into attack created the opening, and Chelsea Blissett’s quick feet earned a penalty. Neve Duston made no mistake from the spot.

The win keeps Alamein in the hunt for finals. They sit level on 39  points with South Melbourne, but face two potentially tricky final games of the campaign with a visit to Melbourne Victory before welcoming potential premiers Bulleen Lions to Dorothy Laver Reserve in Round 26.

An own goal to Francesco Iermano gave Keilor Park a 1-0 win away to South Melbourne on Saturday afternoon.  The less said to describe it the better. From repeat viewings it remains unclear how the error occurred, but Iermano’s attempted back pass somehow wrongfooted Geo Candy to crawl over the line for the games only goal.

South Melbourne responded the way they would have wanted. They piled on the shots and dominated possession, but could not find a way past Maggie Byrne  having the game of her life. The Keilor Park goalkeeper made seven saves in a match defining performance to deny Alexis Pantazoploulos, Bella Wallhead and Clancy Westaway from scoring.

Iermano tried making amends herself, but could not beat Byrne with a long range effort deep into the second half and it became apparent it was not South Melbourne’s day.

Keilor did not just sit back for the game either. Ellie La Monte was a menacing presence for the visitors, but despite her repeated attempts on goal and general creativity on the ball, the own goal was the only score of the afternoon.

Sundays only match saw Bulleen Lions secure an essential three points away to Boroondara Eagles. Claudia Mihocic was the game’s only scorer in the 1-0 win. The in-form centre back slammed the ball into the net following a first half corner for the visitors.

It was a must win game for Bulleen who remain in the hunt for the premiership, just five points off top spot with two games remaining. Bulleen’s defence of the slender lead was made all the more impressive by them having the play the final half hour without Mihocic. The crucial defender was withdrawn following a collision while defending a corner.

Bulleen will heavily rely on favours from other teams to finish top, but they have given themselves a chance and will almost certainly finish in the top four.

In Appreciation of Kieran Meyers and Maggie Byrne

The two youngsters could not be split this weekend. Both were instrumental for their respective sides. Byrne was a giant in goal for Keilor Park in the win at Lakeside, while Meyers continued her fine form for Bentleigh Greens.

Keilor defended diligently as a team and were seemingly pinned back for most of Saturday’s game against South Melbourne, but the 19 year old goalkeeper was outstanding in denying the home side a point. Her fingertip save in the 72nd minute was the clear highlight, but her positioning and bravery were huge factors in the score remaining at 1-0.

Byrne made several good stops in a crowded and at times chaotic penalty box. Her near post save to deny Pantazopoulos after a corner kick, looked scrappy in the moment, but there was never any way that shot was getting past her.

Midway through the second half, she was massive again. This time, Byrne got low and perfectly behind the ball to save from Bella Wallhead’s powerful header.

Byrne was not the only reason that Keilor won the game, but she was the difference between the two sides.

While Byrne was keeping goals out, Kiera Meyers scored her third of an impressive campaign. The former Melbourne City and current Brisbane Roar winger now has three goals and three assists for the 2026 season and has done so in style.

Bentleigh have been a massively improved force since the transfer window. Meyers has been a huge factor in that. She has quick feet, powerful acceleration and brilliant technique. Her pace provides her with time on the ball and her vision means that she can use it to damage the opposition.

Her goal against Victory was a work of art. It was part athleticism and part imagination. Meyers showed the awareness to beat the first defender without even touching the ball, and the pace to outrun the next. Her quick switch of feet in the final moments of her run were perhaps the best part of the goal.

As the target opened up, the most obvious shot would have been on her left foot. She has scored from 25 yards on that side of her body this season, even though she looks margianally more comfortable on her right.

Instead, she went for the near post, with her right foot. The angle was far tougher, but it was unexpected, and that close to goal, she had to make a decision. That she was able to do that at full pace and make it all look so flawlessly simple is.

Meyers is a highly watchable talent, and it feels like she is on the verge of a breakout 12 months in Australia football.

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Ona Batlle: “It’s the right place to be at the right time for me”

by Ben Gilby (17/8/26)

Above: Ona Batlle signs on for Arsenal earlier this summer. Photo: Sky Sports.

Ona Batlle is back in the WSL. The Spanish World Cup and Champions League winning defender has unfinished business here. She wants a league title.

Three years after leaving Manchester United to return home to Spain where she won 11 trophies with the Catalan giants, Batlle is chomping at the bit to be part of the Gunners’ title challenge – and to be part of a league which is significantly ahead of Spain in terms of competitiveness.

“I’m going to be more challenged…Arsenal play the way I like to play. I am very excited to be back in the WSL as well. I think it’s the most competitive league and it’s a new challenge for me that I was looking for.

“It was a big step coming back because the league has grown. I really enjoyed my time at United, but now I’m at a good time and age to come back…It was the perfect time to join Arsenal – to try and win everything, and then have the World Cup at the end of the year.

“Loads of big players are in this league, and I think all the teams have stepped up, so there are loads of good clubs that are trying to invest and get good teams to compete well and try to win this league.”

Batlle was one of many big name players to depart Barcelona this summer, as the club’s reported financial issues linked to stadium expansion at Camp Nou and trying to remain within La Liga‘s tight financial fair play rules have allegedly had a major impact on the women’s team.

The move back to the WSL will see the 27-year-old join up with two very familiar faces – Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo.

“Mariona has done really good settling down at the club and in the league…Playing with her – I’m very excited. When I played with her at Barcelona, we had a good connection – she makes it easy for all the players around her.

Above: Ona Batlle and Alessia Russo during their time together at Manchester United. The pair are re-united in North London. Photo: Instagram.

“I do think Alessia has improved loads. I think she was already one of the best, but now, playing in these big competitions, and for her country, she is one of the best nines in the world.”

With Batlle able to play on both the right and left side of defence, she fulfils another key requirement of the Renée Slegers transfer policy – being a top quality player with the ability to be versatile – this giving the team further strength in depth.

Yet, Arsenal went into last season with a team, that on paper, looked more than capable of taking out the title for the first time since 2018/19, but came up short, largely due to drawing far too many games between October and mid-December.

The Spanish star knows what her team have to do this time round – it’s all about being ruthless and grinding out results.

“To be able to win the league – (you have) to be a constant team. Every weekend you have to perform. If you don’t have a good week or a good day, you have to get the win – any win. To have such a good squad, and big squad, it will help us to have a good season.”

Batlle is also aware that the team’s title push won’t be wanting for a lack of support. In common with all of the club’s summer signings, she highlighted the huge draw that the club’s support levels offer.

“One of the most things I’m looking forward to – having the crowd there. There will be plenty of games there, full of crowd. I’m really looking forward to feeling the fans…It’s one of the beauties of this club, how they are connected to the fans, how they have the history of the club, having all these fans. It’s a big club, they do things well, and I want to be a part of that.”

(c) Impetus 2026

This is the third part of Ben Gilby‘s series of articles from Arsenal’s media day. Missed the others?

Chloe Kelly: “What a time it would be to win the League”
Géraldine Reuteler: “It’s a privilege to play here”

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Scottish Women’s Premier League One Season Preview

Damion Arnold reports from the season launch event in Glasgow for Impetus (15/8/26)

Above: Players from each of the SWPL1 clubs at the season launch event. Photo: Colin Poultney.

The newest chapter of the SWPL is fast approaching with the first game week commencing on August 16. All 10 teams have been busy buying new players, replacing departed managers and implanting new tactics to better their previous seasons achievements. This is a guide to all the teams and a predicted final position.

Aberdeen

After finishing ninth and winning the play-off final 5-0 vs Queen’s Park, Scott Booth has recruited Katie O’Hanlon (on loan from West Ham United), Soraya Walsh (from West Ham United) and Piper Lea (from Aston Villa) to bolster the team and better their chances of finishing in the upper half of the table before the split.

19-year-old defender Maddie Finnie believes this campaign will be about developing and building for the future. “We have a really young squad, we have taken a lot of academy players up , so I think the main thing is to get performances and then hopefully the results will come. I think it will be a season full of developing” she said.

Final league position prediction: 8th.

Celtic

Since their 2023/24 title winning season, Celtic have not been unable to replicate the formula as they finished fifth in the season just gone and fourth in the season prior. The Ghirls have made nine new summer signings with former academy star Chloe Arthur being one, returning to the club after spending the past few seasons at Crystal Palace.

Maria McAneny was one of a few who put pen to paper signing a new deal that sees her at the club until 2028.

Celtic are a club who are usually in and around the title charge and cup competitions and McAneney believes the team can do that this season. We asked her what the clubs target is for the upcoming season, she said “to be more successful than last season. I think on and off the pitch we want to carry ourselves in the best way we possibly can, so we are hoping we can do that and hopefully get some silverware along the way.”

Final league position prediction: 5th. 

Glasgow City

Glasgow City ended their 2025/26 campaign on a high as they drew 0-0 with the eventual champions Hearts and battered Rangers 6-0 on the final day. This saw them finish third, just four points behind the champions.

The success Glasgow City have achieved is more greatly enhanced by the fact that the side are a standalone women’s team, meaning that unlike Celtic and Rangers, their success comes only from their own doing. Looking back on the season, co-captain Amy Muir believes it ended a little disappointingly as she states; “I think it was a bit disappointing in the terms of how it ended for us.” However, it was not all glum as they defeated Rangers 2-1 to lift the Sky Sports Cup.

Final league position prediction: 1st. 

Heart of Midlothian

Since the new league format of 10 teams in both SWPL and the SWPL 2, there has been a new winner each season. The season gone was Hearts’ turn and it was their first ever league title too. This season, with European football on their calendar, doing the back-to-back may be a stretch. They have already crashed out of the Champions League after their 2-1 defeat to Danish side HB Køge. However, they do still have the UEFA Europa Women’s Cup to look forward to.

This season will certainly be a test, but winger Lauren Wade, despite understanding so, believes back-to-back is the goal. “I think naturally once you win something, you want more. So, do we want to win it again? Yes, of course we do, but we know how difficult that can be” she said.

Final league position prediction: 4th. 

Hibernian 

Hibernian finished fourth last season on 55 points and unbeaten in the final month despite playing Glasgow City, Partick Thistle and Hearts.

They have recruited six new players over the summer and made changes to their backroom staff after Stewart Hall left his role as assistant coach. Hibernian won the league in the 2024/25 season and despite finishing fourth in the season just gone, defender Caley Gibb believes that this season, the club ,can be amongst those competing for the title again.

“We want to go out and do the club and ourselves proud” Gibb said.

“Last year, we did not do as well as we had hoped, but we have won the league before and we have competed for top place for quite a few years, so it’ll be a case of going out and setting the standard’s in week one and keep continuing to improve across the year. 

Final league position prediction: 2nd.

Montrose

The 2026/27 season will be Montrose’s four consecutive campaign in the SWPL – no mean feat for a team aligned with a men’s club who play below the top flight. Whilst this means it has not been an easy ride for the ‘Gable Endies’ as they have finished just above the relegation play-off spot every season, defender Georgia Carter believes this season will be different. “I think we are more confident this year as we have established within the league whereas in previous seasons, we were newer and finding our feet. So, this year, we’re hoping we can kick off and finish high up” Carter said.

Final league position prediction: 7th. 

Motherwell

After the rollercoaster of last season behind them, coach Iain Robinson will be looking to build with the refreshed Motherwell side that went unbeaten after the split into the new season.

With Robinson joining in January, the team have been able to spend preseason finely tweaking small parts of their game. Longtime serving defender Chelsie Watson is excited for Robinson’s first full season to get underway and welcomes the competitiveness that is to come. “(I’m) really excited” she said.

“We’ve had a good preseason this year. It has been good because he came through halfway through the season. It (preseason) has been good, I am looking forward to it.”

Final league position prediction: 6th. 

Partick Thistle

Like Motherwell, Partick Thistle are also going into the new season with a manger they brought in halfway through the season. Gary Holt has recruited a number of signings over the summer including returning faces such as midfielder Amy Bulloch and Chloe Logan who joined as a player and a coach.

36-year-old defender Cheryl McCulloch believes the target for this season is a top six spot again. “ We want to be top six” she said. “That’s where we always strive to get to. We done that last year, so it’s trying to get their again, trying to better the performances and results every week.”

Final league position prediction: 9th.

Rangers

Having missed out on the title on the last day, Rangers will be looking to come back stronger and better in the new season. Having already been knocked out of the Champions League Qualifying tournament by Ajax, Rangers will also compete in the UEFA Europa Women’s Cup if they succeed in their qualifying rounds. With the league, the European competition and the domestic cup all on their plate this season, defender Kathy Hill believes the goal for the team is to win everything. “(The goal is) Just the same as every other season. Every competition we’re in, we want to win” she said.

Final league position prediction: 3rd.

Spartans FC

Spartans FC secured promotion back to the SWPL on the final day of last season as their 2-0 win over Dundee United was enough as Kilmarnock lost 2-0 to Queens Park. Having been relegated the season prior to last, securing instant promotion is a huge achievement and defender Robyn McCafferty knows exactly how that feels, but she also understands the challenge that being back in the SWPL brings. “So as much as we’re proud of the fact that we’ve got back up, we know now it’s going to be a bigger challenge than ever before to try and stay here. But we’re excited, we’re looking forward to the challenge” she said.

Final league position prediction: 10th.

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Géraldine Reuteler: “It’s a privilege to play here”

by Ben Gilby (15/8/26)

Above: Géraldine Reuteler – one of Arsenal’s major summer signings. Photo: Arsenal FC.

Swiss international Géraldine Reuteler feels that her move to Arsenal will make her an even better player – which is great news for both club and country with a World Cup beckoning at the end of the new season.

Speaking at the club media day after sealing her move from Frauen-Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, the 27-year-old reflected on the big step up that she has noticed since arriving at the Gunners.

“It’s a huge difference. It’s much bigger here…everything is a bit more professional. So many staff members! For everything they have one, or two, or three more people. It’s such a difference.”

Reuteler made her club debut with Lucerne in Switzerland at the age of just 15 where she played 43 games in four years, scoring 23 times before moving to play in Germany.

“I was eight years in Frankfurt which is a long time,” the 91-cap Switzerland international said, “Arsenal is one of the best clubs in the world, I think it’s a privilege to play here. It’s a familiar club (thanks to the knowledge provided to her by former Swiss Arsenal players Lia Wälti and Noelle Maritz).

“I always want to prepare for my national team, and being here is a great step…to try and improve my football skills..the WSL is before the Bundesliga (ie stronger), so it’s a good step for me.

Arsenal boss Renée Slegers has made a conscious effort to build a squad with huge quality in depth, with particular focus on players who can play at a high standard in multiple positions. Reuteler is definitely one who comes into this category.

“I would say my best position is in the eight (shirt) – in the middle…(but) she (Slegers) told me I am a box-to-box player, so I will fit into her system of how Arsenal want to play.”

Above: Géraldine Reuteler signs on for Arsenal. Photo: Arsenal FC.

The midfielder knows she is coming into a team stacked with top quality in that part of the pitch, but sees the challenge ahead of her as one that can take her to the next level as a player.

“I was eight years in Frankfurt – the same environment, and it was not that competitive in the end, so I think it’s different (here). It’s competitive everyday, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Naturally, one of the biggest pull factors in choosing Arsenal, apart from the training facilities was the carrot of playing every league game at The Emirates Stadium in front of large crowds. The Swiss star beamed as she explained just how exciting this prospect is for her.

“I think it’s a dream. Where else do you have this? In Germany it was not that often that we could play in the men’s stadium, so I think this is really, really good.”

Reuteler’s move to North London has been a long time coming, with rumours last summer suggesting that she was going to make the move. She admits that it has been on her mind since the Gunners played her Eintracht side in a pre-season friendly last year.

“I was already talking a bit with Renée before the game, so I was a bit nervous. It was a nice test for us as we’d never played such a good team in pre-season. It was like ‘yeh, I really want to play there one day.'”

“With Lia Wälti, I have talked about Arsenal a lot for a long time. I have heard all the time about Arsenal and the improvements of the club in the last few years.”

Reuteler’s move is another example of that improvement as the squad looks to be ever stronger.

(c) Impetus 2026.

This is the second part of Ben Gilby‘s series of articles from Arsenal’s media day. Missed the first with Chloe Kelly? Click to read it here: https://impetusfootball.org/2026/08/13/chloe-kelly-what-a-time-it-would-be-to-win-the-league/

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Chloe Kelly: “What a time it would be to win the League”

by Ben Gilby (13/8/26)

Above: Chloe Kelly celebrates during Arsenal’s Champions League Quarter-Final win over Chelsea last season. Photo: Arsenal FC.

A new campaign is on the horizon – one that Lionesses hero Chloe Kelly believes will be the most competitive ever in the WSL. One that makes this season the best time to end Arsenal’s seven year league title winning drought.

Speaking to the media at the club’s season launch event, Kelly said: “What a time to win the league if the league is growing as much as it is and with the players we are attracting.”

It’s not just Arsenal who are attracting these big names, but the calibre of players coming into London City Lionesses, the changes at Manchester City, and teams such as Tottenham Hotspur will also point to adding greater quality.

No-one seriously expects it to be the same four teams battling it out for three European places in 2026/27. Instead, it should be, at the very least a five way tussle. That is hugely exciting for the 28-year-old.

“The growth of this league right now is incredible. You have players from Barcelona off the back of winning a Champions League coming to our league.”

Arsenal know that slow starts over the past two seasons have ultimately cost them the opportunity to add WSL honours to the Champions League and FIFA Champions Cup silverware that they lifted. With head coach Renée Slegers now having put together arguably the strongest squad in the club’s history, with world-class players across all parts of the squad and in deep numbers, the attacker believes now is the time for them to lift the title.

“What we have in the room is good enough to win the league and we have to focus on what we can bring to the table…We have to take care of our own business.”

It has been a bitter-sweet last couple of years for Kelly, with the dark days at Manchester City, a return to her beloved Arsenal, a second successive Euros Final winning strike, followed by a season of stop-start injury.

The period has been series of real challenges for the Gunner, but she has now grabbed the opportunity with both hands as she looks to start the new campaign on a real high.

Above: Gunners together with the Lionesses – Chloe Kelly with Michelle Agyemang at the Euros in 2025. Kelly believes more celebrations in the red and white of Arsenal are ahead this season. Photo: Sky Sports.

“(I’m) really proud to be sat here, wearing an Arsenal shirt. It feels like a long time ago (leaving City). There was a bit of a fear of the unknown – not knowing how things would go…I reflect on that as a dark moment – then the Euros (2025) and signing for the club that I started my career with.

“I know the ambitions of the club – to go for the league this season – so making sure I had a really good off season (was really important to me) – balancing down time with working in the gym and working on the pitch, so I think I’m in a really good place at the moment. My main goal is to stay fit and fresh all season, look after my body and be ready when called upon.

“I needed the summer to work on myself physically, and without a summer tournament was a good time for that. Last season was a frustration for me, in and out with injury off the back of an amazing summer. I had big goals to do big things in my first (full) season at Arsenal, so I was a little disappointed that I didn’t do what I wanted to do.

With Kelly reaching her late-20s and being such a role model in the game, she is aware of the responsibilities that come with it, but at the same time can’t lose the sense of fun and enjoyment that make her who she is as a person and a player.

“I always try to lead by example in the way I hold myself both on and off the pitch. There are younger ones in the squad, but sometimes I don’t realise I’m 28 and I get involved with the younger ones, doing our dances and what-not.

“I remember stepping out on that pitch at Boreham Wood against Watford (11 years ago in the Conti Cup, scoring), buzzing to be at Arsenal, and I still feel that way. Time flies by, but the feeling of playing for Arsenal doesn’t change.”

Among the next generation of youngsters at the North London side that the Lioness is taking under her wing, are three players that she highlights particularly.

“Jessie Gale, what she did in the WSL2 last season (with Bristol City) was incredible. Seeing her journey now and trying to guide her as much as we can as a group. (Gale has just gone out on loan again in the second tier to Newcastle United). For her, being herself is important because she is such a bubbly character. Katie Reid and Michelle Agyemang – it will be amazing for them to step back on the pitch and get going again.”

But, at the end of the day, it’s all about positivity and enjoyment. Right now, I cannot think of another player in the WSL who looks like she enjoys playing football just as much as Chloe Kelly. The beaming smile on the pitch, the connectivity with her club, team-mates, and fans. It makes her who she is, and she recognises that.

“The environment that we are creating is a real fun environment in the stadiums…we need to look at the next generation and inspire them every time I step onto the pitch – trying to show those girls its possible to enjoy yourself.”

(c) Impetus 2026

Above: Arsenal’s smiling assassin. Photo: Arsenal FC.

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