Hayashi brace seals Brisbane’s win over Sydney FC

Sydney FC 1-3 Brisbane Roar

By Kieran Yap 5/2/26

Above: Brisbane Roar’s goal scorers Daisy Brown and Momo Hayashi. Photo: Brisbane Roar

A Momo Hayashi wondergoal sealed a 3-1 win for Brisbane Roar against Sydney FC at Leichhardt Oval. Daisy Brown scored the opener for The Roar before a brilliant equalizer from Hana Lowry for the home side. Hayashi’s brace was all that separated the sides in an entertaining, attacking game.

Brisbane Roar travelled south in strong form. Alex Smith’s side has suffered significant injuries to star players, but have continued to collect the points. They arrived to face Sydney FC as a side undefeated in six games.

The home side’s fortunes were in stark contrast. Sydney FC have only two wins this season, both coming back in November, and James Slaveski was looking for a third in his first game as interim manager.

Sydney were without Sarah Hunter. The captain was unavaiable due to a broken collarbone. Mackenzie Hawkesby partnered Lowry in midfield, while Amber Luchtmiejer started as the central attacker.

Brisbane started the game in better fashion. Aimee Medwin almost opened the scoring with a long range effort, but her shot whizzed wide of the far post.

The visitors did not have to wait long for to break the deadlock. Bente Jansen caused a turnover by pressuring Willa Pearson, and her skilfull cutback found Brown who calmly slotted the ball home.

Brisbane continued to apply pressure and move the ball quickly as they searched for a second, but Sydney still looked dangerous on occasion despite generally being outplayed. Riley Tanner had a goal cancelled for being offside and Lowry’s first in sky blue levelled the scores.

The midfielder received the ball in midfield. her first touch took her beyond the oncoming defender and she slalomed beyond a second before unleashing an excellent strike from the edge of the 18 yard box.

Lowry has been so often deployed in a deep, almost defensive or ball-retaining role that it can be easy to forget how deadly she can be around goal. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come for Sydney FC.

Brisbane tried to hit back almost immediately. Ashlyn Miller tested Heather Hinz, but the in-form Sydney FC goalkeeper was equal to the strike.

Sydney would have probably felt good going into the last minute of the first half. They had worn the attacking storm and levelled the scores. But Hayashi met an excellent corner kick to re-take the lead with the final touch of the half. Brisbane had the advantage at the break.

Despite that setback, Sydney looked more comfortable in the second half. The game was more even, but also more open as the home side chased the lead and Brisbane looked to extend theirs.

The important third goal arrived in stunning style. Hayashi is known for scoring long range rockets, but even by her standards this was incredible. she struck the ball from more than 30 yards out, low and directly into the bottom corner to effectively seal the game. Even the league’s best goalkeeper, at full stretch, could do nothing to stop it.

Sydney FC did not get the “new manager bounce” many fans would have hoped for, but there were positive signs. Hawkesby’s return to midfield gave the side more drive and attacking purpose through the centre of the park. Lowry’s more advanced role, paid immediate dividends and Bianca Galic added drive off the bench.

They should be able to build off that, but they face another in-form finals bound side next week in Canberra United.

Brisbane can chase first place on the table when they face Melbourne City in another away trip, but with City losing against Western Sydney Wanderers, Alex Smith’s side will feel anything is possible.

Teams: SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Hinz, Tumeth, Ayson, Pearson, Fenton, Hawkesby, Lowry, Cassar, Lemon, Luchtmeijer, Tanner. Substitutes: Robertson, Ulkekul, Halmarick, Tallon-Henniker, Galic.

Goals: Lowry 35′

BRISBANE ROAR (4-3-3): Lincoln, Medwin, Seidl, Piazza, Studer, Hayashi, Woods, Miller, Meyers, Jansen, Brown. Substitutes: Franco, Stephenson, Cuthbert, Kinsella, Hoyos, Hanson.

Goals: Brown 10′, Hayashi 45′, 74′

Referee: Molly Godsell

Attendance: TBC

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Arsenal: European to World Champions, how they did it.

By Emme Fortnam (4/2/26)

Above: Arsenal lifting the first Champions Cup Photo: Arsenal FC

In the 24/25 season, Arsenal fought their way to the top of the women’s football, securing a UEFA Women’s Champions League title on the 24th May 2025. With Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey combining for 14 goals, Arsenal’s key players had a profound impact on the competition – shining in those crucial knockout moments that defined the European run.

In the Champions league, they soared to the quarter-finals with limited knockbacks. In the quarter and semi finals, Arsenal found themselves trailing in the first leg – to Real Madrid and OL Lyonnes respectively. Two second-leg comebacks saw them through to the final against the imperious Barcelona, setting up one of the most anticipated finals in history. The game started quietly, as Arsenal’s midfield disrupted that historic Barca three. As is often the case for Arsenal, it was Stina Blackstenius the substitute hero who scored to give Arsenal the win. Claiming victory for the just the second time in the competition.

Now, in 2026, Arsenal entered the new Champions Cup, a mini club ‘world cup’ with winners of the four Champions Leagues playing each other. They started by knocking out AS Far (Morocco) while Corinthians (Brazil) stunned American champions Gotham to set up a tie at Arsenal’s home ground for the final. While the Brazilian champions may lack the pure talent of Arsenal, they’re a strong defensive and tactically astute side, and this would be no walkover. Olivia Smith got the scoring started after Russo’s effort was saved, before the game was equalised by Gabi Zanotti. Lotte Wubbon Moy, who has enjoyed limited minutes in the league, rose above the rest, heading home to restore her team’s lead.

In injury time however, the drama continued as Katie McCabe’s foul in the box allowed the Brazillians to level. Extra time saw Caitlin Foord smash home the goal which finally dealt the final blow to Corinthians, seeing Arsenal over the line. In front of 25,000 fans, whatever you say about the competition, Arsenal are officially World Champions.

Sitting fourth in the table, Renee Sleger’s team haven’t had a great domestic season so far. Still, that winning mentality comes through. With injury returns incoming for some crucial players like Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, and key goalkeeper Daphne van-Domselaar, Arsenal will still be hoping to get more out of this season, and the confidence from Champions Cup success can only push this team on more and more.

Wanderers extend winning streak and cause upset in win against City

Melbourne City 0-1 Western Sydney Wanderers

Alice de Koster-Kitto 4/2/2026

Above: The Wanderers celebrate their goal against Melbourne City. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers have caused upset at ctrl:Cyber pitch this evening, defeating Melbourne City 1-0. While the two sides sat completely opposite ends of the ladder, with City at the top and Wanderers at the bottom, it was the visitors who entered the pitch in better form, coming off a historic Sydney Derby win. It may have been an own goal that awarded the Wanderers the first and only goal of the match, but their ability to hold off the defending premiers was commendable.

Melbourne City presented immediate danger, with an early effort from Shelby McMahon inside the box. The match was a first against last on the table battle, although the two sides were fairly even within the first few minutes of play.

Malena Mieres punched away a Talia Younis shot, which served as the first chance for the Wanderers. Younis quickly followed up with another effort from outside the box, which was collected by Mieres.

Despite the table context, Wanderers did well in holding off City and creating chances, while only holding 30% of the possession. While Melbourne City held onto the ball, they weren’t able to capitalise on it early on.

Aideen Keane played the ball to Uchendu, who then took the shot towards goal. The ball was sent away, and Uchendu argued that it may have been a handball, although it wasn’t called.

While City continued to hold possession throughout the first half, and appeared the more dominant side across most areas, it seemed that if a goal was to come, it would be from the Wanderers, as Younis was able to make continual attempts.

Ella Buchanan broke into space before being blocked by Turner, as the game seemed to be moving in favour of the visitors.

Melbourne City were awarded a free kick, taken by Alexia Apostolakis, after a collision between Keane and Buchanan. The ball was well defended, as City were still not able to find an opportunity to take a shot.

The scoreline was opened for Western Sydney Wanderers in the 35th  minute. Despite their efforts, it was an own goal that earned them the lead, when a Talia Younis corner deflected off of Aideen Keane, who sent the ball over the line.

As halftime approached, City looked desperately for an equaliser, as Bryleeh Henry sent the ball to Uchendu inside the box, but the effort could not be converted into a real chance.

Western Sydney held onto the lead expertly as no second goal was to be found at the halftime whistle.

Melbourne City made two halftime substitutions in an effort to find an equaliser, with golden boot race leader Holly Mcnamara comin gon in place of Keane, and Leticia McKenna for Shelby McMahon.

Rebekah Stott made an excellent shot from distance, which rippled off the outside of the net, and looked for a moment as if it might have gone in.

An excellent Apostolakis corner was punched away from goal by Khamis. Khamis made another impressive save shortly after, following a Turner corner.

The speed of Holly McNamara got the ball into a dangerous area, despite efforts from Poppie Hooks, who attempted to hold her off. McNamaras cross could not find a blue shirt in time. The effort, however, exposed disorganisation in the Wanderers defence, as a City equaliser seemed increasingly likely.

City managed to capitalise on their possession, more so than in the first half; however, they continued to be blocked by Wanderers defence. A free kick from McKenna looked to find a goal for City, but the ball was sent too high, dropping into the hands of Khamis.

Karly Rostebakken got dangerously close to a late equaliser for City after Khamis missed a long ball. It was ultimately too high, and the goal was not to be found.

After 6 minutes of added time, neither side was able to find the back of the net, and the Wanderers took home the 3 points.

As stoppage time approached, it seemed that the score would remain the same, as Wanderers didn’t manage to make any significant forward efforts, but still managed to hold off City

The win marks Western Sydney Wanderers’ 3rd in a row, and has lifted them off the bottom of the table. For City, it marks their 2nd consecutive loss, after being defeated by Adelaide United last round.

Both Wanderers and City will host their upcoming matches this Sunday, with Western Sydney taking on Adelaide United at CommBank Stadium, as Melbourne City head back to ctrl:cyber Pitch, to face Brisbane Roar.

MELBOURNE CITY (4-4-2): Mieres, Roestbakken, Otto, Stott, Turner, McMahon, Apostolakis, Jackson, Henry, Keane, Uchendu. Substitutes: Karic, Jugovic, Barbieri, Wilson, McNamara, McKenns

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (3-4-3): Khamis, Ying, Harrison, Hooks, Matos, Harada, Chessari, Buchanan, Ng-Saad, Cong, Younis. Substitutes: Fazzari, Rue, Cerne, Edwards, Barker, Bennett

Goals: Aideen Keane (OG) 35’

Referee: Caitlin Williams

Attendance: TBC

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Ante Juric departs Sydney FC as most successful coach ever

Above: Ante Juric lifts the championship. Image: Sydney FC.

By Genevieve Henry (4/2/26).

Three premierships. Three championships. Seven consecutive grand finals. Ante Juric achieved all of this as the longest serving head coach in eight and a half seasons with Sydney FC.

Now at the bottom of the table and suffering their first Sydney Derby defeat in 6 years, the Sky Blues have lost all hope of recreating this glory. Western Sydney Wanderers were the only team below Sydney on the A-League Women ladder. This 3-2 defeat was the last straw for the club, who announced Juric’s departure yesterday. Academy Technical Lead and NPL Assistant coach James Slaveski will step up as interim head coach.

Many fans of Sydney and the A-Leagues would have assumed the lacklustre 2024-25 season was an outlier for Sydney — although they nearly managed to climb back up — but no one expected Juric’s side to be on the bottom again this season.

Juric built a legacy of winning at Sydney. In the rare years Juric was in charge where the Sky Blues didn’t come away with a trophy, they were still competing at the top. Now, they’re in a battle to crawl up from the bottom. The only thing Sydney can currently be grateful for is the lack of relegation in the A-Leagues.

Perhaps it’s a plague of injuries that has done the Sky Blues in; perhaps it’s waves of departing players — but these losses are commonplace in the world of football. More than likely, Juric has been doing the same thing for a long time and whether the rest of the league is catching up to him or he’s stuck in a rut, something had to change for Sydney to maintain their status as a top club.

Above: Juric watches the Sky Blues from the sideline. Image: A-Leagues.

Although fans, players, and the club will be sad to see Juric go, it’s not with shame that he departs.

“Ante will forever be remembered as one of the most important figures in Sydney FC’s history,” Sydney FC Executive Vice Chairman Sebastian Gray said. “On behalf of the board, we want to sincerely thank him for everything he has given to this club over eight and a half seasons, including an incredible run of success that delivered six major trophies and seven straight Grand Finals.”

The impact of Juric goes beyond his titles — he has had a hand in developing many of the most prominent players in Australian football. Cailtin Foord, Alanna Kennedy, Amy Sayer, Cortnee Vine, Remy Siemsen, Charlize Rule, Clare Wheeler, Kahli Johnson, and Jada Whyman are regulars in current Matildas squads, and that’s barely scratching the surface of the big names Juric has worked with.

Juric is famous for his success in developing young players into superstars. He and Sydney have often had an eye for who the next big name is — his 2025-26 squad is stacked with young talents with Indiana Dos Santos (18), Willa Pearson (15), Maddie Caspers (18), Rubi Sullivan (17), Claire Corbett (15), and Skye Halmarick (17) to name a few. When Juric believes in a player, the footballing world often does, too.

Now, the cycle of development and departure that Juric mastered for so long seems to have come to an end at Sydney FC, stuck firmly in the development phase. Without big international signings or cohesion among their other big name players, the heavy lifting is falling on the shoulders of players with little experience. While in a few years, the current Sydney squad could achieve great things, they’re not there yet.

It was time for a change. But it certainly doesn’t erase all the success Juric had with the Sky Blues.

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Vrouwen Eredivisie Week 13: HERA stun Ajax, ADO still without win

By Jan-Kees Joosse (3/2/26)

Above: HERA United celebrate an unlikely win over Ajax. Photo: Vrouwen Eredivisie website.

The thirteenth round of the women’s Eredivisie saw title contenders slip up, unlikely wins and the bottom of the table getting tighter.

Ajax 1-2 HERA United

A city derby has emerged following Hera United’s win over Ajax. While everyone had expected an easy victory for Ajax, they were left disappointed when the final whistle blew. HERA widened the relegation gap with NAC Breda, and Ajax lost their top spot.

The Ajax women started strongly on Sunday afternoon, creating numerous chances in the first half-hour. It seemed only a matter of time before they took the lead, which came in the 39th minute when striker Danique Tolhoek headed Ajax ahead 1-0.

Just before halftime, HERA equalized after a cross from Lieke Vis was deflected off Jonna van de Velde. An own goal dealt Ajax a blow going into the break. Despite Ajax pressing after the interval, they were mainly unlucky against the efficiency of the visitors. In the 58th minute, goalkeeper Kelly Steen launched a counter with a brilliant kick, allowing substitute Ina Booms to calmly score the 1-2.

HERA’s win is impressive, especially because the city derby, according to Ajax coach Anouk Bruijl, had not yet fully resonated with the Ajax players. It was likely very different for HERA. They are becoming an increasingly strong team in the Eredivisie, not easily beaten – a positive sign for women’s football fans. The level is rising, and Ajax’s talents may have underestimated this. This could be a crucial moment in the title race, setting the stage for future rivalries in Amsterdam.

Ajax simply had no luck in this match. There is little to criticize about their play; the only area for improvement is finishing games with scrappy goals. Forcing outcomes is not yet familiar to the Amsterdam squad, a consequence of Ajax’s policy of developing youth in the Eredivisie. Whether this approach remains sustainable will largely become clear next season, when Ajax faces top teams more regularly.

Feyenoord 2-2 PSV

Undoubtedly favourites for this game, PSV took a 0-2 lead after twenty minutes, but Feyenoord fought back and scored the equalizer in the 98th minute. That there was even time for a comeback was remarkable.

PSV struck early in Rotterdam. Liz Rijsbergen showcased her pace, scoring after a quick counter, reminiscent of Kerolin’s 3-0 goal against Chelsea. PSV werethe more confident team in the first half. Lore Jacobs quickly finished a strong PSV attack, converting a precise cross from Liz Rijsbergen with class! With an early lead, it seemed like a walk in the park.

Feyenoord proved resilient and reduced the deficit before halftime through Esmee de Graaf, giving them hope for the rest of the match. This hope was largely thanks to the referee, who allowed six minutes of added time and continued play after short injury treatments. In the extra two minutes, Obispo finished a foul to make it 2-2.

Feyenoord celebrated the goal like a victory, though their weaknesses against top teams remain apparent. PSV was visibly frustrated in added time by the referee’s decisions and a dangerous cross from Itamura, handing away the three points. Captain Fleur Strik was furious and criticized the referee for letting the match get out of hand, allowing too many fouls and extending added time unnecessarily.

Twente 3-0 Excelsior

FC Twente beat Excelsior 3-0, having already defeated them earlier in the week in the cup. This victory moved Twente to the top of the table, overtaking Ajax with a game in hand. Excelsior, now in the relegation zone, is showing increasing uncertainty with each game.

From the first whistle, FC Twente took control. Excelsior were immediately put under pressure, struggling to play out from the Twente press. Early turnovers led to dangerous chances for the home side. In the 11th minute, the opener came from a well-taken corner by Charlotte Hulst, with Alieke Tuin reacting sharply to score 1-0.

The goal did not change the game’s dynamics. Excelsior remained insecure on the ball, continually allowing Twente to press quickly. This led to the second goal in the 19th minute, when Jaimy Ravensbergen capitalized on sloppy defending and calmly finished. Twente continued to dominate, and in first-half injury time, Lynn Groenewegen made it 3-0, giving the home side a comfortable lead at halftime.

Twente saw out the match professionally, securing the win without problems. Combined with other results, Corina Dekker’s side climbs to the top of the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie. Excelsior, meanwhile, are left worrying about their troubling form and recurring uncertainty reminiscent of old patterns.

PEC Zwolle 2-0 AZ

This season, PEC Zwolle Women have shown how much a strong coach can influence results. Last year, the team underperformed, but under Gert Peter de Gunst, they have become one of the positive surprises of the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie. With clear principles, confidence, and organization, PEC consistently win, even against teams around them in the standings.

PEC Zwolle deservedly beat AZ 2-0. After a balanced opening, the home side took the initiative. Britt Udink opened the scoring after 25 minutes with a fine goal. AZ had a late chance before halftime, but Sabrine Ellouzi’s goal was ruled offside. After the break, PEC scored again via Ragnheiður Jónsdóttir, effectively deciding the match.

With 27 points from 13 matches, PEC remains competitive in the upper mid-table, exceeding expectations. AZ, however, face serious challenges, sitting eighth with 12 points while HERA lurk with 11. The relegation battle is becoming increasingly prominent.

Heerenveen 4-1 ADO Den Haag

SC Heerenveen Women continue to impress in the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie. Their 4-1 win over ADO Den Haag confirms the team is in excellent form. Where they previously conceded goals easily, luck is now consistently on their side. Their growing confidence is evident in their attacking play: decisive, brave, and self-assured, making their outlook notably positive.

Heerenveen started strong, taking the lead after just 12 minutes. A cross from the right was poorly handled by goalkeeper Barbara Lorsheyd, allowing Evi Maatman to tap in. Two minutes later, ADO equalized due to sloppy buildup, with Anne van Egmond scoring a beautiful lob. Heerenveen, however, stayed composed, pressing and going into halftime 2-1 ahead after a rebound finished by Lisanne Venema.

After the break, ADO sought an equalizer, but Jet van Mierlo’s goal was ruled offside. Heerenveen immediately countered; following a saved shot by Elfi Maass, Aymee Altena was alert to score on the rebound for 3-1. In the final stages, Heerenveen kept pressing, hitting the frame twice, and Romaissa Boukakar sealed the 4-1 victory in injury time.

ADO Den Haag’s problems are structural. The team performs like a relegation side, but the off-field situation is even more concerning. The women’s team seems low-priority within the club, which focuses on promoting the men’s team. Coaches without proper licenses, departing players, and lack of vision paint a worrying picture for a club that was once a founding pillar of the Women’s Eredivisie.

Utrecht 1-0 NAC Breda

FC Utrecht Women secured a professional 1-0 win over NAC Breda, but the victory barely masked the unrest within the team. Play looked strained, with defense and buildup poorly coordinated. The team lacked cohesion, visible in body language, and Lobke Loonen left the field frustrated – a symbol of a squad struggling with itself. The question arises: is it a lack of quality and experience, or poor preparation and coordination? Mistakes continue to repeat, worrying Utrecht fans.

After NAC’s painful loss to PEC Zwolle last week, FC Utrecht started strong. The home team pressed early, won many second balls, and kept NAC pinned in their own half. Yet this dominance yielded little real control. Loonen had the biggest chance, shooting with the outside of her foot after 25 minutes, only to be denied by goalkeeper Nikki de Haan.

Midway through the first half, NAC improved. Brigitte Franken had a big chance, and Stephanie Coelho Aurélio set up Emely van der Vliet before halftime, but without success. NAC continued pressing after the break, creating several good chances, including a set-piece straight at the goalkeeper. They lacked decisiveness.

In the 76th minute, the match was decided at the other end. After a sharp moment by Snellenberg, Nikita Tromp displayed her class, volleying a cross from the left into the net. A goal from nowhere, against the run of play. NAC continued to press but came away empty-handed again. The fight for survival continues, with Ajax the next obstacle.

Follow Jan for news about Dutch women’s football at  www.fcleeuwinnen.nl. 

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10 of the most exciting transfers of the NPLW Vic

By Kieran Yap 3/2/26

Above: New South Melbourne signing Bella Wallhead. Photo: Kou Media

The new Victorian NPLW season is only weeks away, and as usual there has been plenty of player movement. Impetus looks at some of the most exciting club-to club transfers of the 2026 pre-season.

Anais Josefski: Bulleen Lions to Alamein FC.

The rapid wide forward arrives after a season at Bulleen Lions. The talented former Melbourne Victory train-on player has pace to burn and is a good finisher, but found game time limited while sharing a position with Danella Butrus and Alana Cortellino at The Lions but still managed a solid return of three goals in 13 appearances.

Josefski’s best form in the NPLW Vic has come at Boroondara Eagles FC, where she started 21 out of a possible 22 games and scored an impressive 10 goals for the club, this followed her 2023 season at Box Hill where she enjoyed a similar ratio with six goals from 12 appearances.

Josefski should be a good fit for Alamein. Her pace makes her a threat and prevents defences from sitting too high when in possession. If she gets loose on a counter attack or in space on the wing, all the opposition can do is hope.

Asuka Miyata: Heidelberg Utd to Avondale FC.

You could kick a ball at a team photo of Avondale’s squad and any player you hit would qualify as a major player in this league. The newly promoted side clearly means business and have recruited strongly to support the big names already there like former Gold Medal winner Kurea Okino and Elise Kellond-Knight.

Avondale have coaxed Beattie Goad and World Cup goalscorer Hannah Wilkinson back onto the pitch, but have also added Isabel Accardo and Sidney Allen to the squad, along with Heidelberg’s set piece genius Cameron Barriero. This is essentially and all-star team on paper.

Included in that glittering roster is one of the most deadly midfielders of 2025. Japanese playmaker Asuka Miyata. After lifting two trophies at Heidelberg, Miyata has been snared by the ambitious newcomers.

After two highly impactful season’s Miyata should hit the ground running and  can be the chief creative force to supply Avondale’s enviable attack.

She is a crafty, tricky midfielder who can move from box to box and drive the play forward. Miyata is the type of midfielder who is brilliantly skilled as an individual but also improves those around her. Expect her to play another key role in 2026.

Alyssa Dall ‘Oste: Perth Glory to Bulleen Lions.

One of the states finest goalkeepers has arrived at the Veneto Club as Bulleen look to go at least one step further this season.

Bulleen have made strong signings around the park. Olivia Bomford has joined from South Melbourne and Maja Markovski has returned to the club where she won a Gold Medal and earned an A-League Women move, Dall Oste brings top level experience between the sticks and gives Bulleen some serious depth in the goalkeeping department.

Bulleen now have Emily Shields, Erin Hudson and Dalle ‘Oste to choose from and the injury crisis that challenged them last season should be avoided. Dall ‘Oste joins after a short spell at Perth Glory and two seasons with Western United in the A-League Women. She has lifted NPLW trophies with Calder United and has the talent and experience to lift another at Bulleen.

Bella Sewards: South Melbourne to Essendon Royals

Unlike some clubs, Essendon have not had to deal with huge upheaval in their playing ranks. Key players like Sasha Coorey and Alessia Bresciano have remained, and fans will hope that Ava Groba is fully fit and back to her best.

The Royals have come close to success in the last two seasons with consecutive semi final appearances, and in signing Bella Sewards they clearly aim to maintain that run or improve on it.

Sewards arrives from South Melbourne and will effectively replace Grace Maher in the lineup. A long time star of this competition, Sewards provides an experienced presence in the middle of the park, who can also spark her team in the attacking third.

A creative and technical midfielder with the ability to score spectacular goals, Bella Sewards can improve this Essendon team. She is a quality signing for a club that is becoming accustomed to competing for honours.

Hayley Geurts: Boroondara Eagles to Heidelberg United.

The 2025 premiers have lost some players this season, but in Hayley Geurts thy have signed a versatile, experienced match winner. The former Boroondara star will likely be one of the most impactful arrivals at the Olympic Village, in a year that looks transitional on first appearance.

Geurts is an ambidextrous full back or midfielder who can take set pieces with either foot. Her ability to score from free kicks should offset the departure of Barreiro and she can provide the Warriors with valuable leadership following the retirement of icon Steph Galea.

It sounds like a lot to ask of a new arrival, but Geurts has the ability and on field temperament to do it. On top of that, she is a terrifically consistent and entertaining player. A genuine star of this league and one that will add to Heidelberg’s NPLW highlight reel.

Georgia Karaparidis: Box Hill United Melbourne City

Melbourne City’s first NPLW side is stacked with talent. Former South Melbourne goalkeeper and Junior Matilda Dali Gorr-Burchmore, Heidelberg premiership winner Caitlin Karic and Bulleen prodigy Mary Brown have all been snared by the potential new powerhouse.

They can also boast the likes of Kaya Jugovic, Danella Butrus and Bryleeh Henry, although the A-League season may impact their availability in the NPLW.

They have also signed one of the stars in Box Hill’s grand final winning campaign. Georgia Karaparidis is a tricky, entertaining and dynamic forward who can twist defenders into knots and finish off chances. While the eventual surge to silverware was largely propelled by their experienced players, Karaparidis was one of those keeping the club in contention before the big names arrived mid season in 2025 and she firmly established herself as a star.

A player good enough to change games, and one with the maturity to handle that responsibility, Karaparidis is still very much at the beginning of her career and has plenty of improvement left in her game, but was one to watch last season and is likely to star again in 2026.

Yuka Sato: Bulleen Lions to Bentleigh Greens

Bentleigh Greens have a strong squad coming into this season. Julia Budiongo will provde a target and goal threat and Candela Ferreyra-Bas can be a creative spark. In recruiting Yuka Sato from Bulleen Lions, they have player who can control a game.

The Japanese midfielder is fast, technical and can move the ball between the lines. She is capable of chipping in with a goal, but her real strengths are in creating chances for her teammates.

There are players who can score at Bentleigh, Sato is the perfect signing to provide them with chances.

Emily Rutkowski: FV Academy to Melbourne Victory.

Rutkowski was one of the standout players in the second half of the 2025 season, the versatile fullback arrived back at FV Academy after a time with Victory as a train-on player and it was a surprise to some that she did not return to the A-League setup immediately for the current season.

She’s back now, and one of the stand out signings for the club’s inaugural Under 23 program.

Rutkowski can play on either flank at either fullback or on the wing and can score spectacular goals. Victory have a side stacked with the competition’s best young talent and will likely be one of the leagues most entertaining teams, Rutkowski is likely to play a big part in that style. Reunited with her FV Acamedy coach Santi Escudero, she is likely to enjoy the same trust and freedom to play her natural game.

Looking at Victory as a development squad, Rutkowski’s season should be followed keenly by fans of the A-League. The senior team has struggled to consistently fill the right back position, and Rutkowski could be a long term solution.

For now though, just enjoy the show.  

Dragana Kljajic: South Melbourne to Preston Lions

Dragana Kljajic has swapped Lakside for B.T Connor Reserve in a huge coup for The Lions.

The former South Melbourne winger is a crucial addition to a side still boasting Ellie La Monte in attack and help create or convert chances at her new home

Kljajic is an entertaining and direct forward, who started last season strongly at South. She is an excellent cross of the ball, but Preston might want to get her into the box more and use her movement and ability to get on the end of the chances La Monte routinely creates.

This is a smart piece of business by a club looking to return to trophy contention, Kljajic is a proven player in the NPLW, should adjust quickly to her new team and is sure to make an impact.

Isabella Wallhead: South Melbourne

South Melbourne secured on of the biggest moves of this off season when they signed Western Australian talent Bella Wallhead from rivals Heidelberg United.

Wallhead is one of the league’s finest central defenders, was a standout performer for Heidelberg last season and most observers were in shock that she was not signed to an A-League Women club in 2026.

This is all to South Melbourne’s gain. Wallhead will make South much harder to score against, and can help them build from the back. She will also be reunited with former Bergers teammates Danielle Micalleff, although the two play at opposite ends of the pitch.

This is a huge signing. Wallhead is a highly consistent, prodigiously talented, modern defender who dominates games from the back.

South have simply signed one of the best players in the NPLW.

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Pia Vlok: Phoenix’s teen sensation makes history (again)

by Maddison Hagger (2/2/26)

Above: Pia Vlok (yellow and black kit) in action for Wellington Phoenix. Photo: Ryan Imray for Impetus.

Wellington Phoenix’s teen sensation Pia Vlok played a stunning game against the Newcastle Jets on Sunday, becoming the second youngest player to score a hat-trick in the A-League.

The Nix dismantled the Jets in the first 25 minutes, going on to win 5-1 and maintaining their second place spot on the ladder. 

Vlok’s first goal came just 10 minutes into the match after working with Makala Woods to sustain pressure on the Jets’ debutant keeper Georgia Ritchie. Newcastle attempted to play out from the back, but the Phoenix turned the ball over and Grace Jale found Vlok unopposed at the top of the box. With incredible composure under pressure from the Jets’ defenders bearing down, Vlok intelligently took a touch to the right and found space to take the shot into the bottom left corner. 

That strike set the tone for the game, with Vlok’s second goal coming just five minutes later. Woods found her on the right and the 17-year-old drove forward to the top of the box taking a low shot across goal into the back of the net. 

It’s clear the Phoenix have a rising star in their midst. The teenager joined the Wellington club in September following success with domestic league side Auckland United. Prior to that, Vlok was named the best player at the 2024 OFC U-16 Women’s Championship before going on to represent New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic. 

Vlok made her debut for the Phoenix as a substitute against Canberra United in their season opening game. She impressed head coach Bev Priestman so much that she earned a starting spot against the Newcastle Jets just a week later. 

The midfielder also provided a bright spark in the club’s previous outing against the Jets, registering her first assist just four minutes into the clash. Her link up with forward Brooke Nunn produced results when Vlok slipped the ball in behind the Jets’ defence for Nunn to squeeze a shot past the keeper. She continued to combine well with Nunn in the second-half, sending a second defence-splitting ball through to the forward. 

Vlok plays with the confidence of a young talent, bringing drive and determination. She doesn’t hesitate to take shots, registering one in just the third minute moments before providing the assist against the Jets in their first outing this season. Again, in the second half, it took less than 60 seconds for the attacker to register the first shot. 

With the Phoenix facing multiple injuries to experienced players, younger members have been given the opportunity to step up to the mantle. Vlok has taken that chance head on, making history as the Phoenix’s youngest ever goal scorer. That same goal was the winner in the club’s first ever success against Melbourne Victory.

In Round 13 against Canberra United, Priestman turned to her bench for energy and vigour, bringing on Vlok and Daisy Brazendale. Vlok sealed the win with confidence in the sixth minute of added time by launching an adventurous shot 25-yards out from goal to best keeper Sally James who was back-tracking to her line. 

Priestman says she is encouraging this confidence in Vlok and the Phoenix players to go for goal:

“I think we’ve stopped looking for the perfect goal or the perfect pass and I’ve challenged the group now for this back-end of the season about being brave.”

Above: Pia Vlok (facing camera, embraced by Brooke Nunn) celebrates her hat-trick against Newcastle Jets on Sunday. Photo: A-Leagues.

With her ability to link the midfield to strikers and her talented passes in behind defensive lines, Vlok looks like a natural 10. She combines well with forwards like Nunn, and against the Jets, played multiple slicing passes straight through the midfield. But this season she has been flexible in position, playing as a 10, a wingback, and sometimes a nine. Priestman says this fluidity is a key part of the team’s style of play:

“When you recruit good footballers with good football IQ, you can move them around […] having players that can play in different positions makes a massive difference […] It’s a big part of what we do.”

However, Vlok’s ground control outweighs her aerial duels. With a success rate around 37.5%, her heading and aerial positioning are areas for development, despite her height. And with the Jets’ defenders strong in the air, the Phoenix looked to play the ball to her feet rather than competing for headers. 

Against the Jets on Sunday, the young talent sealed the Phoenix’s three game win streak in the 64th minute and made history as the club’s first ever player to score a hat-trick. A ball through midfield from Woods at the halfway line found Vlok who got behind the defensive line and drove forward to the top of the box. Jets’ keeper Ritchie came forward to cut down the angle but Vlok intelligently chopped onto her left foot and made no mistake, slamming the ball past the keeper to find her third goal. 

Ultimately the Jets’ defensive line were unable to handle a relentless Phoenix who put immense pressure on the young keeper and were given space and opportunity in dangerous areas. They were also unable to handle Vlok’s aggression, urgency, and footballing smarts. 

With history made, the talented teenager was substituted off in the 72nd minute. She now stands as the Phoenix’s top goal scorer this season and sixth in the league’s golden boot race. 

As the season continues into the back-end, Vlok must continue to prove herself as a core player in the squad by showing her intelligence and confidence. Under a coach like Priestman who is known for and passionate about developing young players, the teen is in the right place. 

 “This club is big on promoting young players and if they’re good enough they’re old enough and I’m delighted for them to go and deliver.”

There is a very high likelihood, as the Phoenix’s most in-form young player, that we could see Vlok stepping up into the Football Ferns, following the likes of Milly Clegg and other young Phoenix talents. 

“She’s great technically and she’s athletic. I think New Zealand have a great player on their hands for the future. I think she’s Football Ferns material.”

Could this call-up come as soon as the Ferns’ FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania qualifiers at the end of February? And how long until she starts piquing interest from leagues overseas? Watch this space.

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Grace Clinton: explained

By Hope Robinson (2/2/26)

Above: Grace Clinton vs Sweden in the quarter-final of England’s Euro 2025 triumph. Photo: goal.com

Since making her Women’s Super League debut in 2020, Grace Clinton has been turning heads as one of England’s standout young talents. Her performances at such a young age caught the attention of many, including Lionesses manager Serena Wiegman. This summer, she made a headline move across Manchester, swapping red for blue in a deal involving fellow England international Jess Park. The 2024 PFA Young Player of the Year, is a midfielder for both the present and the future, already among the best young footballers to come out of England in recent years. Manchester City was the perfect next step, and here is why they were right to sign her.

Background and Early Career

Grace Clinton, 22, is already a European champion, but her development has been carefully layered rather than accelerated. Born in Liverpool, she came through Everton’s academy and was introduced to first-team football early. At 16, she trained regularly with the senior side and made her competitive debut in October 2020 during a 6–0 victory over Aston Villa, offering an early glimpse of her composure at senior level.

Manchester United moved to sign Clinton in July 2022, viewing her as a long-term creative presence in midfield. However, limited immediate opportunities led to consecutive loan spells that would prove decisive. A brief period at Bristol City provided senior minutes, but it was her season at Tottenham Hotspur during 2023–24 that redefined her trajectory.

At Spurs, Clinton’s role expanded significantly. She was no longer a developing talent but a tactical focal point, trusted to dictate tempo, press intelligently, and arrive late into the box. That responsibility translated into consistency and maturity, earning her first Lionesses senior call-up in October 2023. Her performances across that season established her as one of the most influential young players in the league.

Recognition followed quickly. Clinton was named the 2024 PFA Women’s Young Player of the Year and became a regular figure in England squads. After making her Manchester United debut in September 2024, a one-year contract extension option was triggered, but her long-term pathway lay elsewhere. A high-profile swap deal with Jess Park took Clinton to Manchester City, where she scored on her debut against Tottenham Hotspur in a 5–1 win, underlining both confidence and readiness.

Above: Grace Clinton on the pitch during her loan at Tottenham Hotspur. Photo: tottenhamhotspur.com

Playing Style and Role

Clinton operates primarily as a number eight but is equally effective higher up the pitch as a number ten. Her game is built on physical intensity, intelligent movement and an ability to influence both attacking and defensive phases. She combines ball-winning aggression with timing and restraint, allowing her to disrupt opposition build-up without compromising structure.

In possession, Clinton thrives when receiving on the half-turn, using her strength and awareness to protect the ball before driving forward. She consistently finds space between lines and attacks the penalty area late, making her a reliable goal threat from midfield. Her output at international level reflects this, with three goals in five appearances during England’s final games of 2024.

Defensively, she offers huge presence. Clinton tracks runners, recovers quickly in transition and is willing to contribute deep, including goal-line interventions. That dual contribution places her in a similar mould to Georgia Stanway, a midfielder trusted to balance risk and control.

Technical Strengths

Clinton’s technical quality has been most evident in high-tempo environments, particularly with England, where space is limited and speed of play is non-negotiable. In her early international appearances, she integrated seamlessly into midfield rotations, maintaining tempo rather than forcing play.

Introduced frequently from the bench, Clinton showed confidence receiving centrally, often taking her first touch forward to preserve momentum. Her short-range passing is crisp and purposeful, while her ball security under pressure allows her teams to sustain possession rather than reset. These traits have enabled her to adapt quickly to elite tactical systems without disrupting balance.

What separates Clinton technically is not flair alone but efficiency. She rarely overplays situations, instead choosing actions that benefit collective structure. That reliability has earned trust at both club and international level.

Above: Grace Clinton winning PFA Young Player of the Year. Photo: thepfa.com

Tactical Intelligence

Clinton’s tactical understanding is a defining feature of her profile. In England matches where control and discipline are prioritised, she has demonstrated an ability to interpret game states with maturity. This was particularly evident against Spain in the 1–0 Nations League victory at Wembley, where she started and executed a disciplined midfield role.

Rather than pressing aggressively at all times, Clinton adjusted her positioning to block passing lanes and delay progression. This restraint allowed England to maintain compactness and manage transitions. Off the ball, her awareness of spacing ensures midfield balance, especially when protecting narrow leads.

For England, Clinton operates with slightly more positional restraint than at club level, prioritising structure over penetration. At club level, she is encouraged to carry the ball and arrive higher in attacking phases. That adaptability highlights a midfielder capable of adjusting her game to tactical demands.

Mentality and Development Curve

Confidence has been central to Clinton’s development. From an early age, she has shown a willingness to demand the ball and attempt high-difficulty actions regardless of pressure. That mentality has accelerated her rise but has also required refinement.

Earlier in her career, Clinton could at times press too aggressively, leaving space behind her. Over time, particularly during her spell at Tottenham Hotspur, she developed greater discipline, learning when to hold position rather than chase. Improving tempo control in possession remains an area for further growth, especially against deep blocks.

Her move to Manchester City offers the ideal environment to refine these aspects. Already an elite-level performer, Clinton’s development curve remains steep, with technical and tactical ceiling still to be reached.

Why She Fits Manchester City

Manchester City were not just smart to sign Grace Clinton, they were extremely fortunate to secure her when they did. English, young and already proven at the highest level, Clinton sits in a small group of midfielders with genuine long-term elite potential.

City’s possession-based structure aligns naturally with her strengths. Training alongside players such as Yui Hasegawa, Sam Coffey and Vivianne Miedema exposes Clinton to decision-making at the highest level, accelerating her development within a stable system. That clarity of role contrasts with Manchester United’s more transitional environment, where long-term development has often lacked continuity.

Within the wider England context, Clinton remains a benchmark. While emerging talents such as Lucia Kendall are beginning to mirror Clinton’s rise from previous seasons, her blend of readiness and ceiling remains rare. City’s move reflects foresight rather than fortune.

Above: Grace Clinton vs Switzerland after scoring the match winner. Photo: bbc.co.uk

Future of the Lionesses

Grace Clinton’s progression is closely linked to the next evolution of the Lionesses. As England continue to refresh their midfield options, she offers a balance of intelligence, physicality and composure suited to tournament football. Already trusted in high-pressure fixtures, she appears built for sustained international responsibility.

Manchester City provides the platform to consolidate that role. The demands of their system mirror those of elite international football, encouraging control, discipline and adaptability. As England’s next generation continues to emerge, Clinton is positioned not simply to be part of the future, but to shape it.

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The hidden cost of reducing the Vrouwen Eredivisie

By Astrid Karsten (2/2/26)

Above: Representatives from the Eredivisie teams in 2022. Photo: Azerion Vrouwen Eredivisie website.

In 2025, the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) announced that the top tier of women’s football in the Netherlands, the Vrouwen Eredivisie, will be reduced from 12 teams to 10 after the 2025–26 season. For some, the decision could be existential. In a guest feature for Impetus Football, Dutch football writer Astrid Karsten examines the collateral damage this move could cause.

In early November, the WerkTalent Stadium is little more than a cold concrete silo at the Prins Clauslaan junction, where cars speed by and the bright stadium lights are drowned out by streetlights. Yet, football happens here, with stands and a field that function despite everything.

On November 2, 2025, a “match of the founders” was played here: ADO Den Haag against FC Twente. These are the only two clubs that have remained continuously involved in the competition since the signing of the Eredivisie Women’s Agreement in 2007.

The match itself isn’t a match. It’s torture. ADO can’t get a grip, can’t settle down, can’t hold on. Barbara Lorsheyd, with the club since the beginning, scores an own goal – a telling sign. The final score is 0-5, but it could easily have been 0-8. No one would have been surprised.

Music blares through the stadium. GirlPowerRadio is a sponsor. In the business area, people are laughing, drinking, and chatting. Losing to Twente is no disgrace. It feels like a perfectly normal competition day. And yet, three more points have been lost here unnoticed.

ADO Den Haag is simply in relegation territory this season. That’s not a moral judgment, it’s a sporting observation. But in a season with aggravated relegation, that doesn’t just mean being at the bottom. It means disappearing: out of sight, out of contracts, out of development opportunities.

The KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Association) has decided this season that at least two clubs will be relegated. Possibly three. The Women’s Eredivisie will go from twelve to ten teams. The goal: strengthen the competition and reduce the gap between the top and bottom teams.

That sounds logical. But nowhere is it explained how. And worse: whether reducing that gap will actually lead to a stronger competition.

Because downsizing isn’t a strategy. Fewer clubs means fewer playing fields, fewer contracts, less room for development. Above all, it means that mistakes are forgiven less. That regions disappear faster. That talent is dropped sooner.

And then, halfway through the season, doubts arise. The KNVB will, once again, “talk” with fourteen clubs. Because there would be ambiguity about the rules. But if there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s the rules.

“Having discussions” while the season is underway isn’t openness. It’s administrative dallying. Clubs, players, and staff don’t have that luxury; they have to deliver every week within the parameters imposed on them.

Halfway through the season, doubting themselves is reserved for the association. The question is whether it’s more than a charm offensive.

After ADO-Twente, stewards clear away cups. The stands are empty. Laughter continues in the cafeteria. Head coach Marten Glotzbach walks by, his jaw clenched. Sixteen days later, he’ll be fired.

Outside, young players thank the handful of spectators. Tears are swallowed. Shirts are exchanged. Iris Remmers. Floortje Bol. Anne van Egmond. Talented, but without prospects. Not because they’re not good enough, but because the system leaves no room for improvement.

If ADO is relegated, Jong ADO will disappear. That’s not a detail; it’s a policy decision. A development line will be severed. This doesn’t just apply to ADO. It also applies to Utrecht, Heereveen, and PEC. Clubs known for their talent development. If relegated, their development teams will also disappear.

Most women’s clubs don’t rely on structural club funding, but on exposure. Airtime. Media. That’s not a luxury; it’s their sole raison d’être. Fewer Eredivisie matches means less money. For clubs, but also for the entire surrounding chain.

Clubs that rely on men’s performances, minimal budgets, and therefore survive on media revenue, almost certainly face a silent end if they are relegated. Financial survival in the Eerste Divisie is virtually impossible.

Making a league more “equal” sounds appealing, but for some, it is not. It’s precisely the stark disparities that make the Eredivisie so interesting. Inequality creates moments of surprise: underdogs making life difficult for Twente, players rising from relegation clubs to the Champions League in a year and a half. These are the stories you lose when you downsize the league.

Perhaps the stories are shifting downwards. To the Eerste Divisie. To clubs with a fighting spirit, local roots, and a sense of urgency. Groningen – Jong ADO Den Haag (!) recently drew nearly 10,000 spectators in the Tweede Divisie.

More than most Eredivisie teams have ever managed, not counting a Champions League match. But even in European matches, attendances exceeding 4,000 are rare. Driven by a loyal fan base, local involvement, and the will to make something of themselves, Groningen succeeded.

So it’s possible. But only if you invest in it. It can’t rest on the shoulders of a few pioneers. And on this matter the KNVB remains eerily silent.

What will the Eerste Divisie become? A training league or a dumping ground? Will it receive structural funding? Media attention? Will there be any protection for relegated clubs? Or will relegation simply disappear?

Shrinkage without a plan isn’t a vision. It’s a gamble. The KNVB’s hesitation reveals this above all: no one has considered what should exist beneath the Eredivisie. The question isn’t whether going back to ten clubs is necessarily wrong. The question is why we’re acting as if that’s a solution in itself.

By shrinking, you might make the center more compact, but you also cut away frayed edges. And that’s where tension, friction, and emotion often arise.

If we really want to go back to ten clubs, fine. But then also say what we’re giving up. And importantly: say what we’re getting in return. What does the First Division look like? Who funds it? Will there be structural investments, or are we simply shelving the problem? What does this mean for career progression, talent development, and the stories we’ll be able to tell in the future?

As long as these questions remain unanswered, downsizing doesn’t feel like policy, but rather treating the symptoms. As if we’re saying: this is too complicated, let’s make it smaller. While women’s football has shown that growth is never neat, never linear, and never comfortable.

Perhaps that’s the real pain in this discussion. Not that we’re going back to ten teams, but that we’re doing so without a vision. Without a plan. Without the courage to say where we want to go, even if that means we sometimes struggle along the way.

The stands in the WerkTalent Stadium are empty, the cups are being cleared away, and laughter is still flowing in the business lounge. But perhaps the league has lost most of all today the stories that make it so unique.

Follow Astrid through her profile Sporting Femme on Instagram, or on Substack.

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Impetus A-League Women Awards: January 2026

2/2/26

Above: Annalise Rasmussen (left) has had a superb January for the Central Coast Mariners. Photo: A-Leagues

Impetus’ team of writers and photographers covering the A-League Women this season have joined together to select their Player, Young Player (aged 21 and under), and Head Coach of the Month for January Here are our choices in each category.

Player of the Month:
Annalise Rasmussen (Central Coast Mariners)

by Kieran Yap

Rasmussen goals feel inevitable right now. In January, the Mariners forward scored four goals to bring her season tally to 11 and keep her in the Golden Boot race.

This is a player who leads the line for Central Coast, defends from the front with an aggressive and relentless pressing energy and uses her hold-up ability to create space for the Mariners’ other attackers.

But the most impressive improvement in Rasmussen’s game this season has been her finishing. She’s always been a worker, and a presence, now she’s deadly.

Rasmussen’s pace and timing of her runs usually means she has made time for herself, and that means she can pick her spot and use her powerful strike to leave goalkeeper’s with little to save them.

Pure number nine’s are rare in this game. One who excel with their back to goal and when running at it are even more so. Long term Australian fans have compared her to Kate Gill and she is in the sort of form that should really see her in Matildas contention if any places in the squad’s attack open up.

Rasmussen’s last month was her best in her career so far. It was the best in the league.  

Young Player of the Month:
Ilona Melegh (Adelaide United)

by Alyce Collett

Above: Superb saves and an air of a keeper with far more experience under her belt – Adelaide United’s Ilona Melegh. Photo: Adelaide United


January was a big month for Adelaide United, but in particular for its young goal keeper Illona Melegh.

Merely 17 years old, January was the month where Melegh – who had taken the first choice keeper spot from Claudia Jenkins in the last game of December – really cemented her ownership of the role and proved why she is so deserving of it.

The swap in goal keepers has had a telling affect on the results that the Reds have produced.

Before Melegh became the starting goal keeper, they only won one game, drew one and lost four. After Melegh assumed the starting keeper role, they have only lost once and won five games, really rejuvenating their lagging season.

On an individual level Melegh is already in the top 10 in the entire league this season for saved shots and clean sheets, and has conceded less goals than Claudia Jenkins despite playing fewer games than her.

Anyone watching Adelaide games would be forgiven for thinking Melegh is far more experienced than the eight starts to her name or her age would suggest.

She plays with a level of assertiveness far beyond her age or experience would suggest, and that confidence rubs off on the rest of the team. She can confidently crash packs and has strong agility to get down to or across to just about any shot that comes her way.

Head Coach of the Month:
Bev Priestman (Wellington Phoenix)

by Ben Gilby

Above: Bev Priestman guided her Wellington Phoenix side to second on the ladder in January. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.

Bev Priestman moved to the A-League Women in a bid to launch redemption for a coaching career that had become mired in controversy after her ignominious exit from the Canadian national team job. She’s certainly well on the way to that.

Priestman’s Wellington Phoenix side is a combination of experienced players who have represented the club since they came into the competition in 2021, a pack of exceptionally talented local youngsters and astute signings.

Wellington’s Achilles heel in previous seasons has been an inability to make territorial pressure count on the scoreboard, and inconsistent results on the road.

This is now a thing of the past. Priestman has her side playing with real belief, and has given them the confidence to try things. Their outrageous collection of teen talent are able to assert themselves on matches and give it a go without fear of making an error. That can only come with the support and empathy of the head coach.

A playing style which on the front foot sees rapier passing and surging runs with the ball, all because so many of Priestman’s squad have the ability to deliver pinpoint accuracy, mixes with a strong defensive line.

This has led to a stunning January which built on the firm foundations of their end to December. During the opening month of 2026, the Nix won two, drew one and lost one. Those wins came at Canberra United – a notoriously tricky ground to get anything from, and at home to an Adelaide United side who went into the match at Porirua Park unbeaten in five matches.

Priestman is close to not only securing Wellington Phoenix their first finals berth, but potentially a top two spot as well.

Impetus A-League Women Monthly Award Winners 2025/26:

PLAYER:

November: Michelle Heyman (Canberra United)

December: Holly McNamara (Melbourne City)

January: Annalise Rasmussen (Central Coast Mariners)

YOUNG PLAYER:

November: Pia Vlok (Wellington Phoenix)

December: Sasha Grove (Canberra United)

January: Ilona Melegh (Adelaide United)

HEAD COACH:

November: Stephen Hoyle (Newcastle Jets)

December: Antoni Jagarinec (Canberra United)

January: Bev Priestman (Wellington Phoenix)

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