NPLW Vic R11: Techera time, Bulleen climb and Heidelberg score nine

By Kieran Yap 6/5/26

Above: Sienna Techera for Melbourne Victory. Photo: Passion Creations

We are nearing the halfway point of the season and only goal difference separate the top four teams, with four points between first and eighth. Round 11 saw Bulleen back in first, Box Hill and Boroondara suffer a rare stumble and Heidelberg score nine.

Box Hill United has been one of the most consistent sides so far this season, as they travelled to face Avondale FC, they had only lost twice. This encounter was an intriguing one on paper. The VPL Champions versus the NPL Grand Final winners, a star studded lineup up against a largely homegrown contingent, and two of the league’s best strikers at either end in Erin Keyt and Hannah Wilkinson.

Avondale were without Elise Kellond-Knight and Box Hill could not call on brilliant goalkeeper Keeley Segavcic, but both teams still had plenty of quality and that was obvious in a close, fairly even battle.

Sloan Young had a good first half chance for Avondale, but dragged her shot wide. Box Hill probed, but struggled to beat the home side’s press. Isabella Accardo was in terrific form against the much feared attack, while Kiara Bercelli was busy and dangerous for the visitors.

Only one goal separated the sides in the end. A moment of real quality from Hannah Wilkinson took her around multiple defenders and cut the ball back through a crowded penalty area to find Asuka Miyata. The midfielder’s cool finish found its way through the crowd to nestle into the bottom corner.

An early goal to Neve Duston was all that Alamein FC needed to beat Spring Hills FC. It was a strike worthy of winning any match. Duston somehow flicked a high, curling looping finish across goal and into the top corner after excellent buildup from Jessica Shilton and Savanna Anastasopoulos, with the move originally started in midfield by Duston herself.

The result arrests Alamein’s recent run of losses, earning them their first win since early April. For Spring Hills, it was the opposite. They have now lost four in a row, but this was one of their better performances in that time. Unfortunately Alamein’s defence were back to their stingy best.

Preston Lions FC travelled to face an in-form Essendon Royals and the newly crowned player of the month Kelli McGroarty. Preston’s defence was in fine form against the dangerous opposition, although the Royals had 16 shots for the game, few were what most would call easy opportunities.

Essendon largely controlled possession, but it took until the half hour mark to find a break through, Emma Langley finished off Akeisha Sandhu’s  corner, to give them a deserved lead.

Preston responded eight minute later, also from a corner. Natalie Olsen’s delivery was met by Mizuho Yamada to level the scores. Despite Essendon’s persistence, Preston denied them a win at home and earned themselves a valuable point as they look to continue their climb away from the relegation fight. They are now undefeated in four games, and although they have only one win from that, their defence is becoming a real problem for even the best teams to deal with.

Keilor Park and South Melbourne  faced off in a match that South would have expected to win as title aspirants, but Keilor Park are a more challenging side than their record suggests and held out for a 0-0 draw. Of South’s 23 shots on goal, only five were on target with Keilor Park willing to stay disciplined, physical and disrupt momentum in a game that South enjoyed the majority of possession. The draw keeps Keilor Park equal with Preston on 10 points, but stalled South Melbourne’s winning streak. After winning four in a row, they had to settle for a point, which sees them fall to fifth.

Bulleen Lions and Boroondara Eagles met at the Veneto club in a top of the table clash. Boroondara were in the unfamiliar position of needing to respond to a surprise loss against Melbourne Victory midweek and Bulleen had an excellent opportunity to win back first place again.

Bulleen found the early breakthrough. Maja Markovski nodded home Olivia Bomford’s corner in just the third minute, but Boroondara responded well and the match became a closely contested battle with Emma Vane influential as always for The Eagles.

A miraculous Rosie Rodger goal in the 36th minute doubled Bulleen’s lead, Sarah Cain’s driving run through midfield released Rodger into space on the right, and her high, clipped effort somehow found the net at the far post.

The crafty Bulleen forward is best described as “inventive” at her best, and this goal will be one of her greatest highlights. Was it a cross to Markovski or a shot? It was a ball into the right space before the keeper could get into position and that’s what counts.

A textbook corner from Boroondara gave them a lifeline in the second half. Zoe Bennet’s back post delivery was met with a perfect leaping header by Kanako Higuchi. But it came too late, and Boroondara could not find the equaliser.

Annabelle Yates and Catherine Renahan deserve plaudits for dealing with Boroondara’s fearsome wide players, and Emily Bunnell was influential off the bench in holding onto the lead.

Boroondara have not lost two in a row this season and will now face Avondale FC next week when they try and turn things around quickly.

Melbourne Victory put five goals past Bentleigh Greens in a dominant display for their third consecutive win.

Sienna Techera was the standout player in a team full of strong performances. Victory have now defeated Boroondara and Spring Hills in the past week of football, but they are starting to look as comfortable as favourite in a game as they do as underdogs.

Fiorina Iaria played Alice Francou through on goal to score in just the fifth minute, and put Victory in control early. Poppy O’Keeffe slipped a ball wide to Techera to score a curling finish ten minutes later.

Jessica Young scored a third for the home side before the beak with a back post header. Techera brought up her brace in the second half before Jasmine Millar made it 5-0 late to make the score better reflect the match.

Victory’s forwards will get deserved praise, and they were all excellent with a contingent of A-League players, coaches and Young Matildas manager Alex Epakis watching on. But the defence helped set up this win, Mila Bulic and Rosie Curtis were both cutting off attacks and driving Victory forward at every opportunity. O’Keeffe pulled the strings in midfield and is surely pushing for more A-League minutes next season.

More on Victory and Techera later, but first we must get to THAT game at Casey Fields.

Twelve goals were scored between Melbourne City and Heidelberg United. Most of them came in the space of about ten minutes of match time. Melbourne City have been improving in front of goal lately, and most fans would have been delighted at the prospect of scoring three against the reigning premier, but nobody would have predicted this scoreline.

Things looked ominous for the hosts when Aya Sasaki scored in the seventh minute for Heidelberg, but City managed to settle and it took until the 40th minute for Samantha Curwood-Wagner to add a second. She intercepted the ball deep in attack and forced her way through two defenders to finish with power from close range.

Irena Razumic added a third with a long range effort two minute later, and Rosie Wild made it 4-0 just before half time after heading home a corner. It could possibly have been five, but the referee denied what looked to be a Heidelberg penalty following a swift counter-attack .

Sasaki scored her second and third goals immediately after the restart. One from a driven effort at the edge of the area, and the next with a close range effort following another interception in attack. City’s commitment to playing out from the back is admirable, but it was costing therm dearly in this game,

Minori Akiyama scored Heidelberg’s seventh with a powerful effort from 18 yards and Sasaki scored another to make it eight in the 52nd  minute thanks to a scrambled effort inside the six yard box.

At the 40th minute, it was still 1-0, in the 52nd it was 8-0. The damage was done, but the entertainment was actually about to begin.

Far from hiding from the game or the scoreline, City somewhat regrouped. There is character in this team, even if they were missing some key players due to Junior Matildas duty. Captain Maia Capitanio pulled one back with the best goal of the match to that point. She collected the ball 20 yards from goal and lashed a half volley into the net.

Mary Brown and Ellie Kirby combined in midfield to release Jami Marandola on the flank. Her effort crashed off the crossbar and over the line to make it 8-2 in the 59th minute.

Heidelberg hitb back in the 73rd minute when Razumic’s slaloming run earned a penalty. Heidelberg goalkeeper Mia Bailey wanted to get in on the days goalscoring and stepped up to take the spot kick, which was dispatched confidently to make it 9-2.

Mary Brown scored the final goal of the game with a high effort that caught Bailey unaware. It may have been a cross, but City had restored some pride in an otherwise tough afternoon.

The win was not enough for Heidelberg to jump up the ladder, but they are on 18 points, only one point outside the top six. City’s goal difference has taken a battering in the last month, but without the likes of Kaya Jugovic and Dali Gorr-Burchmore, this was always going to be a tough task.

There were some spectacular goals and some regrettable turnovers, but It was one of the most memorable games this season.

(note: there was no commentary on the stream for the first half of this game, and the Dribl app seemed incorrect in the second, so apologies for any errors and please let me know if any corrections are needed)

In Appreciation of Sienna Techera

Sienna Techera is still only 19 years old, but is practically a veteran of this league. The Melbourne Victory winger first featured in 2023, and over the last couple of seasons has established herself as a powerful forward with a creative streak.

Techera rose quickly at Box Hill United, culminating in last season’s Championship win, and has since made her A-League Women debut for Victory. With the U23 side in the NPLW she has been growing into this season as she rotates between the two squads but has recaptured her best form and looks to be a key player for the second half of the season.

Against Bentleigh, Techera looked unstoppable. Two well taken goals are only part of the story, she was electric on both wings, using her pace, and close control to keep Bentleigh’s fullbacks on high alert.

Techera scored two of Victory’s goals and with a change of pace and excellent cross, she teed up Jess Young for another. The direct goal contributions out of five made her one of the most influential players on the pitch, and Bentleigh had no answer for the tall but tricky attacker.

Techera can play anywhere across the front three and has featured at fullback for the A-League Women side, but this round saw the best of her , switching between the wings and attacking the goalmouth when the ball arrived.

She has always been capable of the spectacular, and has produced many great moments in this league over the past few seasons, but this was a great game by Techera, a nearly complete and completely dominant display of attacking craft.

She is a joy to watch, and is looking more confident and consistent with each season. Between this match and the publication of this report, Techera was awarded the Scholarship award at Melbourne Victory.

At 19, it feels like she’s been around forever, but it was a reminder that she is still just getting started. One of the stars of Victorian football.

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Magical Millie, Brilliant and Bright.

By Emmanuel Faith (4/5/26)

Above: Millie Bright holding the WSL title, League Cup and the FA Cup in her penultimate season. Photo: via Chelsea FC website.

There is a moment in every game that rarely makes the highlight reel. A forward break through, the crowd leans forward, and time seems to stretch.

Then, almost quietly, the danger disappears; cut out by a perfectly timed tackle, a body placed exactly where it needs to be, a defender who reads the game two steps ahead.

It’s a moment that is rarely celebrated yet crucial to winning matches, games and sometimes titles.

That kind of moment belongs to Millie Bright.

To watch Bright closely is to understand that elite defending is proactive. It is anticipation over aggression, timing over theatrics, intelligence over impulse.

For more than a decade, whether in the colors of Chelsea Women or as a leader within the England Women’s National Team, she has embodied that truth with remarkable consistency.

What sets Bright apart is how she defends. Her physical authority stands out, but her positional discipline defines her. Where others chase, she intercepts. Her game is built on certainty.

That certainty has defined some of the most important moments of her career.

On the international stage, Bright’s statistical impact was defined by her “bent-but-never-broken” defensive resilience.

During England’s Euro 2022 triumph, she was the only member of the back four to play every single minute of the tournament, anchoring a unit that conceded only two goals across six matches.

Her performance metrics during the 2023 World Cup, where she captained the Lionesses to the final, highlighted her dominance in the air and her spatial awareness; she consistently ranked in the 90th percentile for aerial duel success and interceptions.

Bright’s leadership was a form of tactical stability; her presence allowed defensive partners like Leah Williamson or Alex Greenwood the freedom to roam, confident in Bright’s recovery speed and mastery of the “dark arts” of one-on-one defending.

At club level, her role within Chelsea Women has been equally defining. In Chelsea’s domestic dominance under Emma Hayes, Bright has functioned as the structural anchor in a system built on attacking fluidity.

Whether in title-deciding fixtures in the Women’s Super League or high-stakes UEFA Women’s Champions League ties, her presence has allowed Chelsea to commit numbers forward without losing defensive stability.

Her ability to execute “diagonal switches” and low-driven line-breaking passes allowed Emma Hayes to deploy high-pressing wingers, knowing Bright could find them with pinpoint accuracy from the defensive third. This distribution was functional, evidenced by her role in orchestrating Chelsea’s two domestic trebles and her inclusion in the FIFA FIFPRO World 11 in 2020, 2021, and 2025.

Tactically, Bright’s value was rooted in her elite verticality and ball progression. Throughout her tenure at Chelsea, she served as the primary initiator of attack. Even in her final 2025–26 campaign—a season where she battled chronic injury—she maintained a pass completion rate of 88.08%, a metric typically reserved for technical midfielders rather than central defenders.

In possession, she reflects the modern evolution of the role. Calm under pressure, precise in distribution, and capable of progressing play without compromising structure. She does more than end attacks; she initiates the next phase. Her passing choices often priorities control over risk, ensuring that her team retains shape while advancing the ball.

Beyond football, Bright is also a brilliant leader, with vocal coordination and continuous communication. She ensures defensive lines remain compact, that spacing between units holds, and that transitions are managed with discipline.

In doing so, she creates an environment where others can perform with confidence.

In a game driven by visibility and defining moments, Bright represents the enduring value of reliability, discipline, and elite execution of the unseen work. It is this work ethics that has defined her career.

Some players win you matches.

Millie Bright makes sure you don’t lose them.

As she transitions into an ambassadorial role, she leaves behind a legacy of tactical intelligence that served as the bedrock for the most successful era in English domestic football history.

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Resurgent Roar win come from behind upset

Brisbane Roar 2-1 Wellington Phoenix

by Alyce Collett (3/4/26)

Above: Brisbane Roar celebrate after Daisy Brown (middle) clinched a late goal to seal a come from behind win for her side. Photo: via A-Leagues.

Brisbane Roar have completed a remarkable come from behind 2-1 win over the Wellington Phoenix in the first leg of their two legged A-League Women’s semi.

Although the Phoenix had the perfect start with a second minute goal from Grace Jale, once Momo Hayashi equalised just over 10 minutes later things the Roar started to wrestle control of the game, and the turnaround was complete with a late go ahead goal from Daisy Brown.

It was a high paced first half, with neither side having overly comfortable control of possession and as such the passing accuracy figure for both sides was hovering close to 50% for much of the half. This was also a sign of the intensity of the action in the first half.

Wellington could not have asked for a better start, when an unmarked Jale rose to head home a perfectly placed Manaia Elliot corner.

Mikayla Woods almost had Wellington’s second less than a minute later, but was not able to convert truly.

Things went from bad to worse for Brisbane in the eighth minute when Ruby Cuthbert was forced from the pitch after picking up what seemed to be a hamstring injury.

However in a positive for Brisbane, it was Bente Jansen who was subbed on in Cuthbert’s place, and she did not take too long to really start to make things happen for Brisbane on an attacking front.

In a continuation of what turned out to be a chaotic opening 15 minutes of the match, Brisbane levelled with a headed in corner of their own after Hayashi ran into the penalty area unmarked and headed home an Alicia Woods corner.

The goal seemed to give the home side a boost in confidence, and as the half progressed the Roar started to have more of the share of time in attacking territory., They did have a few close chances at goal, but ultimately could not make any of them count.

Ultimately the score was level at half time, but there was a sense that anything could happen in the second half.

Brisbane continued to enjoy attacking momentum early in the second half, but some impressive defending from Victoria Esson ensured that the Phoenix did not go behind because of any of the Roar’s chances.

The Phoenix could not even get the ball into their final attacking third as the Roar kept piling on the shots on goal.

The Phoenix needed to change something and that’s what they certainly did, with both Pia Vlok and Lara Wall coming on about halfway through the half to try and spark something for the visitors.

Eventually Brisbane finally found some reward for their relentless attack on goal, after Brown was able to tap the ball home directly in front of goal to give the home side the lead.

Brown’s goal capped off what was a remarkable turnaround for the Roar, and has put them in a prime position to continue their impressive late season run and book their spot in the Grand Final.

Teams: BRISBANE ROAR (3-4-2-1): Lincoln, Beard, Cuthbert, Studer, Seidl, Woods, Hayashi, Medwin, Stephenson, Miller, Brown. Substitutes: Franco, Hanson, Jansen, Kinsella, Meyers, Piazza, Yallop.

Scorers: Hayashi 14’, Brown 72′

WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-4-2): Esson, Walker, Barry, Van der Meer, Elliott, Nunn, Jale, Anthony, Pijnenburg, Leon, Woods. Substitutes: Bangalon, Brazendale, Feinberg-Danieli, Fraser, Vlok, Jaber, Wall.

Scorers: Jale 2’

Referee: Isabella Mossin.

Attendance: 3,849.

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City take upper hand in Melbourne Derby semi

Melbourne Victory 0-1 Melbourne City

by Alyce Collett (2/5/26)

Above: Leticia McKenna (light blue uniform in foreground) and her Melbourne City team mates have the upper hand in their two leg semi final. Photo: Adrian Geremia for Impetus.

Melbourne City have won the first leg of its A-League Women’s Semi Final, picking up a narrow 1-0 win over crosstown rivals Melbourne Victory tonight.

The scoreboard reflected how even the match was in terms of possession, with Leticia McKenna’s goal late in the first half all that separated the teams.

The hosts had the first really strong opportunity of the game, when a well timed flighted shot from Rachel Lowe almost got the better of an outstretched Malena Mieres.

City almost had a chance of their own up the other end minutes later, but a mistiming from Holly McNamara meant that she could not connect with the incoming cross.

The action was free flowing and end to end, but both teams were taking very different strategies to get the ball to goal.

The Victory were using more central channels – with players like Rhianna Pollicina and Taylor Ray at the heart of the action – while players like Aideen Keane and Bryleeh Henry out on the wings were doing a lot of the heavy lifting for City.

As the half progressed, City started to accumulate more meaningful time in their attacking third than Victory did, and really put the Victory defence under siege.

City kept pushing hard to find the opener right up to the half time whistle, and finally got one in the final minute of regular time.

After earning a free kick after a rough tackle against her from Holly Furphy, McKenna placed her free kick perfectly, and after Courtney Newbon stuffed up the save, the ball bounced into the net and City had a well deserved lead, which they ultimately took into the break.

https://twitter.com/MelbourneCity/status/2050485741797458198?s=20

Victory started lively in the second half, going close to scoring on a couple of occasions. However, some very strong keeping from Mieres meant that none of those shots ended up in the back of the net.

Interestingly, much of the second half felt even more even in terms of possession and the flow of the match than the first half had.

Perhaps as a sign of how they felt about their position in the two legged tie, City made a very interesting substitution with about 10 minutes to go, replacing central forward Holly McNamara with someone who generally plays more of a central midfield role in Laura Hughes.

City also had some chances in the later parts of the second half, but ultimately neither side could change the half time ledger, giving City the important upper hand heading into next weekend’s second leg.

Teams: MELBOURNE VICTORY (4-4-2): Newbon, Blissett, Morrison, Bunge, Pickett, O’Grady, Ray, Maher, Furphy, Lowe, Pollicina. Substitutes: Techera, Curtis, Woodward, Jancevski, White, Sakalis, Saveska, Flannery.

MELBOURNE CITY (3-4-3): Mieres, Otto, Stott, Turner, Davidson, Mckenna, Henry, Roestbakken, Keane, McMahon, McNamara. Substitutes: Aoyagi, Apostolakis, Barbieri, Hughes, Jackson, Karic, Wilson.

Scorers: McKenna 45’

Referee: Sophie Allum.

Attendance: 4,953.

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Joe Montemurro expecting “tough” Mexico challenge

Above: Joe Montemurro talks to the media. Image: Football Australia.

By Genevieve Henry (2/5/2026).

Australia will host Mexico in a two game series in June, Football Australia announced Friday. The Matildas will kick off the series at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on June 6 before travelling to Sydney for game two at CommBank Stadium on June 9. Head coach Joe Montemurro spoke to the media regarding the international window.

“The lead-up to the World Cup has been really strategic and Mexico is an important opponent for us,” Montemurro said. “They’re going to be tough and that’s what we need going into the World Cup. We’re looking forward to a great spectacle.”

Monetmurro and the Matildas are counting on the support from fans to carry through from Australia’s deep run in the Asian Cup. Montemurro said packed stadiums have become “crucial” for his team.

“We’re used to it now and we expect it,” Montemurro said. “We know that they’re the twelfth player. We love our fans, our fans are just amazing. Our players are more than willing to do the best they can for the fans.”

Montemurro said fans should expect the Mexican side to be good in possession and quick on transitional plays, and comfortable technically. He said their coach Pedro López is “very, very good” and that his side will be tough to face with a squad full of match-winners.

The last time Australia faced Mexico in 2024, the Matildas got a 2-0 result. Montemurro said the team has changed a lot since then, focusing on the growth of the Mexican team in the past few years that will give the Matildas challenges, due to a “very strong” league that is producing lots of young talent.

“Those sorts of Northern Central American teams are very, very tricky to play against because they’re emotional teams, they play a lot for their country and you know, they love playing for their country,” Montemurro said. “These are challenges we’re going to face in the World Cup so again, (it’s) a strategic move to get a country like Mexico to play against us.”

Montemurro said the standard the Matildas set in the final of the Asian Cup was what they expected, but that the challenge will be to maintain that level of competition against other top opponents.  To ensure this kind of performance, he is focusing on a proactive and attack-minded style of play.

Montemurro said he wants fans to feel a “sense of theatre” and a “sense of inspiration” as they watch the Matildas.

“From my perspective, you know, the Matildas are a great brand,” Montemurro said. “I’ve been not surprised but you know, expecting big crowds to come. Obviously it’s an opportunity for us to be in Australia and play against quality opposition. Great occasions and situations, I think, are always going to attract big crowds so you know, we are expecting a big crowd.”

“We love playing in front of our fans, especially at home,” Montemurro said. “(The Matildas) know the importance of what they mean to the nation in regards to role models and the next generation of players. I think the supporter base that we’ve created, the emotion that we’ve created over the years…the fans are so important.”

Montemurro said a key player in the series will be Newcastle’s own Emily Van Egmond, who recently became the most capped Matilda. 

“It’s an absolute honour to coach a player of the stature of EVE,” Montemurro said. “I’ve always admired her, her style of football, her football knowledge, even just as a person — she’s fantastic around the group and what she’s given to the national team is something really, really special. I also want to make note of the Van Egmond family — I know they’re very close to this region and I know Gary and the family — they’ve given a lot to the game in Australia and they should be applauded for what they’ve done. It’s been an honour to work with them and I hope I can continue to work with them.”

Another local player at the top of her game is Clare Wheeler. 

“Clare’s shown that she’s a top national team player and we believe that she’s going to really, really shine over the next few years leading into the World Cup and into the LA Games,” Montemurro said. “She’s proven it on the big stage, she’s proven it in big games in the Asian Cup. It’s the classic case of someone that’s a true professional overseas, doing what she does, working at Everton at a high level and she deserves all the rewards that she gets.”

CommBank Matildas v Mexico 

Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026 

Kick-off: 7.15pm AEST 

Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle 

Broadcast:  Network 10, Paramount+ 

CommBank Matildas v Mexico 

Date: Tuesday, 9 June 2026 

Kick-off: 7.00pm AEST 

Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney 

Broadcast:  Paramount+ exclusive

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Spurs dent United’s Champions League hopes in entertaining stalemate

Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 Manchester United

By Benjamin Tattoo 29/4/26

Above: Ella Morris on the ball Photo: Spurs Women

In a highly anticipated clash between fifth placed Tottenham Hotspur and fourth placed Manchester United, the home side put on an excellent show on and off the pitch at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and will be disappointed that they did not come away with all three points.

Team News

Spurs welcomed back Maika Hamano after the Japanese International missed the FA Cup quarter final against parent club Chelsea. Bethany England was a surprise absence from the side and Hannah Wijk was missing after her season ending injury, sustained on international duty.

Manchester United were boosted with Millie Turner being able start, despite being expected to miss the game. Ella Toone and Ella Wangerheim returned from injury, joining Melvine Malard on the bench. Joint top scorer Elisabeth Terland missed out.

The Action

The first half was all Spurs, who dominated possession, moving the ball brilliantly with short interchanges in midfield and looking to get fullbacks Julie Blackstad and Ella Morris high up the pitch to provide width.

Blakstad found some space on the edge of the area and her miss-hit cross flew just over the bar.  Drew Spence then teed up Signe Gaupset, who’s deflected shot flashed just wide of the post after Matilda Vindberg had found space down the right.

From the resulting corner, Cathinka Tandberg rose highest to head just over, before Spence found space at the edge of the area. Her shot was high and wide.

The hosts’ onslaught continued as on the 38th minute, Tandberg missed a good chance, heading straight at Phallon Tullis-Joyce with the whole goal to aim at from eight yards out. United were grateful for Maya Le Tissier, who’s challenge distracted the Swedish striker.

Before half time, Tullis-Joyce punched out well from underneath her post from an another dangerous in-swinging corner with the away side seemingly relieved to hear the half-time whistle blow. The reds looked devoid of ideas, with only Jess Park and Jade Riviere looking confident going forwards.

Marc Skinner looked to his bench to try and wrestle some momentum in the game with Malard replacing Simi Awujo. It had a positive effect, with United looking to get the ball and bodies forwards faster.

After Olivia Holdt’s bouncing effort was tipped behind by Tullis-Joyce, Spurs playing out from defence nearly cost them twice in quick succession.

First, United won the ball high up the pitch, quickly working the ball to Malarde, who ran at the defence before seeing her shot palmed away by Lize Kop. The France international then headed United’s best chance wide at the back post from Rivere’s excellent cross.

A moment of magic from Vindberg nearly opened the scoring when she brilliantly nutmegged Fridonlina Rolfö, but her goal-bound shot was well blocked by Turner.

After Morris had won a free-kick in an excellent position, Vindberg’s excellent low cross found the full back in the area, but she poked the ball just wide.

In the 76th minute, there was a let off for Kop as she spilt substitute Toone’s shot, but Toko Koga reacted first to clear.

The game became much more open, as both sides began to tire. Malard had a shot deflected wide before the lively Vindberg carried the ball at pace, but her shot was just about kept out by Tullis-Joyce.

After a stretching Spence had missed the target at the back post from close range, the Lilywhite’s poor finishing continued when Lenna Gunning-Williams ran clear of the defence after cleverly eluding Le Tissier. Unfortunately, her shot lacked power and Tullis-Joyce was able to make a comfortable save.

With added time played, the fans of both sides held their breath as Tullis-Joyce joined her teammates in the Spurs box for the final corner of the game, but Kop commanded her box well to claim the corner.

Analysis

An entertaining day on an off the pitch for Spurs ended in frustration. An excellent pre-match display of T-Shirt cannons, DJ beats and interactive competitions was matched by a fast-paced confident display on the pitch.

However, for all their good play and 42 touches in the opposition penalty area, the Lilywhites hit the target just five times from 22 shots and lacked a ruthlessness that they will need, if they are to challenge for the Champions League places next season.

Three points from their last two matches will bring them their highest ever WSL points tally, and there is lots of positives for Martin Ho to build on next season

United may now feel that qualifying for the Champions League for the second season running is firmly out of their hands, despite climbing back up to third in the league, one point ahead of Arsenal.

However, the Gunners three games in hand gives them a huge advantage. Despite strong investment over the winter transfer window the Red Devils injuries have continued to rack up.

With in-form Brighton and Chelsea still left to face, Marc Skinner’s side will need to play far better if they are to finish the season strongly.

Teams: TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (4-2-3-1):  Kop, Morris, A Nildén, Koga, Blaksted, Spence ©, Gaupset, Hamano, Holdt (Summanen 82’), Vindberg, Tandberg (Gunning-Williams 81’)

MANCHESTER UNITED (4-2-3-1): Tullis-Joyce, Riviere, Turner (George 88’), Le Tissier ©, Lundkvist (Sandberg 63’), Naaslund, Miyazawa, Park, Awujo (Malarde 45’), Rolfö (Wangerheim 74’), Schüller (Toone 63’)

Referee: Melissa Burgin

Attendance: 7,310

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NPLW Vic R10: McGoarty scores three for Royals, while Box Hill stays in first

By Kieran Yap 29/4/26

Above: Kelli McGroarty of Essendon Royals

Essendon beat Bentleigh, Victory score a convincing win, and Box Hill vs Bulleen provides a classic in Round 10 of Victoria’s NPLW.

Bulleen Lions needed a win, but there a few harder places to look for one this season than away to Box Hill United.

The league leaders looked dangerous from the outset on Friday night, and had the game on their terms in the first half. Erin Keyt’s 10th goal of the season was scored in just the fourth minute. Box Hill’s press won the ball back in their own half and Juri Kawano teed up the in-form striker for another excellent finish.

Box Hill added a second before half time. Kiara Bercelli’s low, in swinging corner was impossible to defend and Amelia Tartaglia was at the back post to force it home.

The game looked to be getting away from Bulleen, and at half time Caitlin Friend made some changes. Madison Rakic, Ash Jordan and Rosie Rodger entered the match and helped the visitors gain a foothold.

Jordan was busy in a deep playmaking role, and space began to open up for the Lions. Maja Markovski earned a penalty in the 66th minute, and converted it herself to reduce the deficit.

The game turned into a battle as the half wore on, and although both teams shared moments of momentum, Bulleen looked more likely to score.

Rodger’s switch of play found Markovski, who played Rakic in to cross. Jordan’s near post header was on target but was saved by Keeley Segavcic. Olivia Bomford reacted quickest to make it 2-2.

That is how the game finished, it will feel like two points lost for Box Hill, who were typically excellent throughout. Bulleen should be pleased with the comeback, particularly as it relied on their squad depth to rescue the result. Three substitutes were involved in the equalizer and Lia Muldeary  looked solid off the bench after she replaced an injured Claudia Mihocic.

That last change could be Bulleen’s most costly moment of the night. Mihocic has been back to her best this season, and was among Bulleen’s best in their recent unbeaten run. We all hope for a speedy recovery from the classy centre back.

Melbourne Victory’s U23’s travelled west to face Spring Hills FC Aleks Sinclair started for the home team, which was a huge relief to fans who watched her depart the last game early with after an off the ball collision.

Victory were without Ella O’Grady (starring in the A-League Women) and a still injured Sienna Saveska, but Poppy O’Keeffe Fiorina Iaria and Jess Young returned to good impact for the visitors.

Victory looked in control from the start of this game, but although they moved the ball confidently around the field, Spring Hill’s defencve proved difficult to break down at first.

Two goals in quick succession turned the tie completely in Victory’s favor. Some quick passing around the edge of the box put Young in on goal, and she cleverly turned her defender to finish beyond Jenna Ibrahim.

Iaria’s strong play on the wing created the space for Jasmine Millar to add a second. Her first touch opened up the angle, and the finish made it 2-0 in the 32nd minute.

Bella Stringfellow’s excellent finish after a storming run behind  looked to half pulled one back but it was denied for offside.  The hosts would have to wait until the second half to open their account. An indirect free kick from close range was smashed in by Aubrie Labno.

Spring Hills Fc had thrown down a challenge and Victory impressively found another gear. O’Keeffe prodded the ball along the line to Astrid Bocci. The turn inboard was excellent and the finish took a wicked deflection but was still on target and it was 3-1 in quick reply.

Millar scored Victory’s fourth in the 71st minute to remove any  doubt about the result. This was Victory’s most impressive performance since Round One. A comprehensive win, where they were challenged by a strong side and overcame it and were rewarded with a convincing scoreline.

South Melbourne hosted Avondale FC looking to add another win in an impressive run of results. Elisse Kellond-Knight’s slight positional change continued to work well for Avondale. Her cross set up Hannah Wilkinson for a header which she converted in the fourth minute.

South Melbourne left it until late, but provided the drama of the round with two goals in about one minute to completely reverse their fortunes.

In the 89th minute, Alexix Pantazopoulos’s corner caused chaos before it was eventually bundled in by Alana Burn.

South found the winner almost straight from the kickoff. Pantazopoulos was once again involved, the winger charged forward and cut the ball back for Heidi Dalton to score unopposed and open against a tired and surprised Avondale defence.

There is an air or inevitability around South Melbourne. Right now, they are not quite the best team in the competition, but they are capable of beating anybody and there is a real confidence to their play which is reflected in some impressive results. This one will generate real faith in the dressing room.

The win was dampened by a season ending injury to young star Ehva Gutszmit. The promising midfielder was substituted early and confirmed the worst fears of South supporters that it was an ACL injury.

Essendon Royals put seven goals past Bentleigh Greens in the other game on Friday night. Kelli McGoarty had a brace before half time, with Akeisha Sandhu and Emma Langley adding goals each to make it 4-0 at the break.

McGroarty had her hatrick before the hour mark. Bella Sewards and Sasha Coorey got in on the act and the damage was all done by the 70th minute.

Saturday’s games saw Preston Lions FC  win away against Melbourne City.  The home side looked encouraging for the first half but Hollie Massey’s delicately lobbed pass set up Natalie Olsen for a 43rd minute goal, and Preston had the advantage.

Dragana Kljajic’s classy finish made it 2-0 just six minutes later, and Massey was on the score sheet herself after converting from a turnover deep in their attacking third.

The win was Preston’s second of the season, but this was also their third consecutive game without a loss as they begin to grow into the season.

A downside to this win was the early substitution of Ellie Talevski, the defender was injured tackling Maia Capitanio in the 11th minute and replaced by Erika Di Tella.

In form Heidelberg striker Ji Youn Seo added another goal in her impressive season. She opened the scoring in The Warriors home game against Keilor Park SC with a venemous shot from the edge of the box.

Marguerite Lima’s textbook finish across goal levelled the scores in the 32nd minute and the game looked set for a draw until the last possible moment.

Hayley Geurts was the hero for Heidelberg. The perfectly placed finish from outside of the box found the bottom corner in the 90th minute. It was curled in off her right boot, leaving the goalkeeper rooted to the spot, the defence taken by surprise and the crowd in raptures.

Sunday’s game saw Boroondara continue their seemingly undeterrable run. Emma Vane and Priya Savarirayan both scored in the first half to set up a 2-1 win against Alamein FC.

Zoe Houghton scored a late consolation goal for the visitors, but the result sees Alamain drop back out of the top four and Boroondara sit comfortably in second with one game in hand.

Box Hill’s top spot ahead of Round 11 was secured by Melbourne Victory’s dramatic win over Boroondara Eagles on Wednesday night.

Victory started the stronger of the sides, with Fiorina Iaria a dangerous presence in the first half. Alice Francou’s spectacular volley gave Victory a 29th minute lead. Jasmine Millar reacted sharpest to double the lead five minutes later. She scrambled home a rebound after Mia Mossman parried away a shot from Iaria.

With Iaria and Poppy O’Keeffe withdrawn at half time, Boroondara stared to dominate the second half, but Victory struck again.

It was a stroke of luck for the home side but Anika Dovaston slammed the ball home despite it initially bouncing off her hand with the referee on the wrong angle to spot it.

At 3-0 the drama was only beginning. Boroondara eventually broke through, scoring after Chloe McKenzie misjudged the ball well off her line. Elise Cook scored into an open net from 25 yards.

A powerful run and delicate finish from Genevieve Fontes in the 85th minute made it 3-2 and Victory were suddenly in survival mode.

To credit of the youngsters, they held out for the win, despite Boroondara thinking they had equalised only for the offside flag to deny them a famous comeback.

With that game in hand complete, Boroondara sit equal on points with the league leaders, but behind on goal difference. They next face Bulleen Lions in what feels like a must-win game both both sides.

In Appreciation of Essendon’s new signings

10 rounds in, it is still anybody’s season, but Essendon Royals are currently in the discussion as the form side of the competition. Their last month has been excellent, they have won all five of their last games and scored 20 goals in the process.

Essendon have been in the mix for trophies since attaining NPLW status two seasons ago, ansd have always recruited well. This season has been no exception and against Bentleigh Greens, three of their new arrivals for 2026 were outstanding.

Let’s start with the obvious, Kelli McGroarty is a menace. The American striker currently leads the Golden Boot race with 14 goals in nine appearances. She is a decisive striker, almost single minded inside the box and only needs one touch to score.

McGroarty’s first goal against Bentleigh was an excellent first time hit from Akeisha Sandhu’s cross. The ball was slightly behind McGroarty, but she was able to instantly reposition herself to direct it into the net with great technique.

McGroaty’s work effort earns her opportunities. She is not only classy on the ball, but prepared to chase lost causes and turn them into chances. Her second of the night was the result of pouncing on an unlikely error by Bentleigh’s defence and sweeping it into the net from distance.

In between those two goals, Sandhu added one of her own to go with her earlier assist. The arrival from South Melbourne was in effervescent form on the weekend, creating numerous chances and keeping Bentleigh’s defenders under siege. She controlled the shallow cross with her left foot and fired home with her right for her first of the season.

Bronte Peel has joined Sandhu on the wing as another big factor in Essendon’s recent form. The former Heidelberg United forward has found an instant connection with McGroarty and been a regular contender for NPL team of the week.

Bella Sewards was the other new Royal to get on the scoresheet, it is something she has done with impressive regularity since her move, also from South Melbourne. Sewards now has four goals so far, and is a tireless and dependable presence in the Essendon midfield.

Sewards goal was a tap in from close range, but midfielders who can get into those positions make a world of difference.

Essendon have been strong across the entire squad, but it is fair to say that Essendon have handled their off-season transfers almost perfectly. They have consistent game changers, players who are impacting the result. Their dangerous fullback, complete midfielder and uncontainable striker might be what they need to take that extra step this season, but for now, they are one of the NPLW Victoria’s most watchable sides.

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Brisbane Roar into semi-finals after Stephenson heroics

Brisbane Roar 3–0 Adelaide United

By Callum Logie 25/4/26

Above: Kijah Stephenson battling for possession with Matilda McNamara Photo: Brisbane Roar

A sold-out Spencer Park hosted a tense Elimination Final where Brisbane Roar were able to glide past Adelaide United. A Kijah Stephenson brace and an Aimee Medwin goal were more than enough to make the difference as Brisbane will meet Wellington in the semi-final.

Brisbane came out of the gates firing, looking to break their 12-year finals win drought with a strong statement and high pace. Adelaide returned the favour with some aggressive physicality in the opening five minutes.

The crowd were extremely involved from kick off, erupting with noise every time the ball went into the attacking third for the Brisbane Roar.

The first chance of the game came from a clever Melissa Taranto ball over the top that initiated a foot race to the ball between Erin Healy and Chloe Lincoln. Lincoln got there a moment before the Irish forward and was able to clear her lines. 

A few minutes later in the 10th minute, Lincoln showed why she is one of the best Australian goalkeepers today. Emily Condon played a great cross in to give Healy a free header from the penalty spot. Lincoln reached out full stretch to her left and tipped it behind for a corner.

Medwin looked dangerous early, playing a few dangerous crosses across the box for Daisy Brown and Stephenson to attack. Adelaide United defended a lot deeper than Brisbane, doing their best to hold off the dangerous crosses.

Stephenson had a terrific chance in the 27thminute. The ball deflected around in the box and fell to Stephenson with space. She drove the ball at goal but despite the space, did not manage to get a shot on target as it was deflected behind for a corner.

Stephenson tried again in the 29th minute, steering a curled left-foot effort from out the box just wide of the goal. She looked the most dangerous attacking player for Brisbane in the first half. 

A free kick from around 40 yards out saw the audacious Momo Hayashi almost strike for the Roar, just driving her shot wide. 

Brisbane nearly struck a moment later, piling on the pressure as Stephenson forced a great save out of Ilona Melegh in the 37th minute. 

Hayashi continued to stray forward and forced another good save out of Melegh as a half-volley from the right side of the box was driven at the goal in the 43rd minute.

In the 51st minute, Stephenson finally was able to strike and break the deadlock. Stephenson ran onto a through ball from Alicia Woods and clinically passed it past Melegh for a well-deserved lead.

Just seven minutes later, Stephenson was able to double her tally. Brown played a clever ball over to Ashlyn Miller who then played the ball across to Stephenson who converted a curled effort from inside the box.

It was all Brisbane in the second half, Medwin nearly extended the lead in the 66th minute after breaking in behind. Melegh proved equal to that effort though and made the save with her right leg.

Adelaide tried their best to get back into the game, putting moves to get forward and try to test Brisbane, but once the hosts got on top, they stayed on top. 

In the 83rd minute, Medwin got herself a deserved goal to seal the deal for the Roar. A great ball played in by Woods found Medwin running into the box, her strike going through the legs of the defender and trickling into the net. It was her third goal in as many games. 

A two leg semi-final against Wellington awaits Brisbane as the sold-out Spencer stadium went home very happy for the first finals win in 12 years.

Teams: BRISBANE ROAR (3-4-2-1): Lincoln, Cuthbert, Hayashi, Stuber, Seidl, Beard, Woods, Medwin, Stephenson, Miller, Brown. Substitutes: Franco, Hanson, Jansen, Kinsella, Meyers, Piazza, Yallop.

Goals: Stephenson 51′, 58′, Medwin 83′.

ADELAIDE UNITED (4-2-3-1): Melegh, E. Hodgson, McNamara, Tonkin, Tolland, M. Taranto, Morgan, Healy, Condon, A. Taranto, Dawber Substitutes: Avery Holmes, Bowler, Gooch, I. Hodgson, Jenkins, Makris, Rossi.

Referee: Lara Lee


Attendance: 3,500.

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Hometown heartbreak as Victory sweep past Canberra

Canberra United 1-3 Melbourne Victory

By Alice de Koster-Kitto 25/4/26

Above: Taylor Ray (right) and her Victory team mates will be leaving Canberra tonight the happiest of campers after defeating Canberra United in this afternoon’s elimination final. Photo: via A-Leagues.

The 2025/26 Ninja A-League finals series kicked off with a bang, as Melbourne Victory defeated Canberra United 3-1 in an intensely stunning showing at McKellar Park this afternoon.

The win sends Victory to the semi-final stage – where they face Melbourne City in a two legged semi final – and they got there thanks to a goal from Rachel Lowe and a brace from Ella O’Grady. Meanwhile the result brings Canberra’s 2025/26 season to a bittersweet end, with a goal from Sasha Grove making things really interesting for Canberra early on but  ultimately not being enough.

It was Canberra who kicked off the action, with an early cross from Grove threatening to break down the Victory defence in the early minutes of the game. Emma Hawkins had an early shot just moments later, as the hosts looked to dominate in their first home final since 2017.

While Canberra had a bright start, the Victory were not taking a passive approach, with Rhianna Pollicina and Chelsea Blissett moving the ball dangerously in the front third, creating chances for the visitors. However, the defensive powers of Bethany Gordon kept Victory’s attack at bay with some clever interceptions.

It was a fiery meeting, with Melbourne Victory receiving two yellow cards within the first 10 minutes – one to O’Grady and the other to head coach Jeff Hopkins – setting the precedent for what would be a dramatic afternoon of football.

Lowe put Victory in front, capitalising on a Claudia Bunge header towards goal, finding herself in the perfect spot to tap the ball in and score the first goal of the match.

Just minutes later, O’Grady extended their lead, scrambling the ball into the net after firing through Canberra’s defence just in time to collect a cross from Pollicina.

An excellent save from Sally James denied Victory a third, following an expert run from Holly Furphy, which threatened to further extend the visitors’ dominance.

Canberra quickly found a response, with an outstanding and cleverly calculated goal from Grove, who ran straight through the Victory defence effortlessly, striking the ball past Courtney Newbon in a one-on-one finish against the keeper.

A fantastic delivery from Heyman to the head of Hawkins got Canberra unnervingly close to equalising; however, the ball was headed just over the crossbar.

After 45 minutes of end-to-end, intense play, a third yellow card was awarded to Victory during added time, after Kayla Morrison contested the first official.

The second half was just as alive as the first, as the intensity picked back up quickly with a well-timed chance from Hayley Taylor-Young looking to equalise for Canberra, which just missed the net. 

O’Grady netted her second goal of the afternoon, restoring Victory’s two goal lead. The fearless run in with Canberra’s defence that earned her the goal, took O’Grady to the ground, injured momentarily, before returning to play, to the relief of the visiting side.

The following minutes after the match’s fourth goal were somewhat anticlimactic. Though there was no lack of action, with the ball consistently moving cleverly from end-to-end, and injury scares for Taylor Ray and Chelsea Blissett, neither side was able to capitalise on the ever-apparent vigour of the game to create a real chance.

The opportunities arose as stoppage time approached though, which included a fantastic strike from Sienna Dale who had come off the bench to replace Grove. The shot from distance had the power behind it to fly past the opposing defence, but the ball was ultimately too high.

Both ends managed to find some dangerous chances in the dying minutes of the game, with Canberra having the slight upper hand in terms of numbers, while Victory’s chances were more meaningful in nature.

However, despite unwavering efforts and a huge seven minutes of added time, there were no further goals to be found, as Melbourne Victory took the well-deserved win and kept their season alive.

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

Goals: Grove 29’

MELBOURNE VICTORY (3-5-1-1): Newbon, Morrison, Bunge, Pickett, O’Grady, Lowe, Ray, Maher, Blissett, Pollicina, Furphy. Substitutes: Techera, Curtis, Woodward, Jancevski, White, Sakalis, Flannery.

Goals: Lowe 21’, O’Grady 24’, 51’

Referee: Caitlin Williams.
Attendance: 3,290.

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“If we want to move forward, it’s by making that their last home game”: Blissett ahead of elimination final

Above: Chelsea Blissett speaks to the media. Image: Melbourne Victory.

By Isabelle Campbell (24/04/2026)

Melbourne Victory defender Chelsea Blissett says the club has quickly shifted from relief to focus after securing finals football, with qualification only confirmed after results elsewhere went their way following Victory’s win over Perth Glory and the result between Sydney FC and Central Coast Mariners. That result confirmed an elimination final against Canberra United after a tense end to the regular season.

The wait for confirmation played out while the squad travelled back to Melbourne, watching the deciding match unfold mid-flight.

“Let’s just say that was one anxious plane ride. We were all grouped together and watching the game on amazing Qantas Wifi, and once that whistle blew, everyone turned around and looked at us.”

Relief came quickly once the result confirmed finals football, but the mood shifted almost immediately.

“I think we celebrated in that moment, because it was a relief to know that we are in finals, but at the end of the day, there is that expectation that Victory is in finals, and that bit of celebratory excitement finished quite early.”

Attention turned straight to the task ahead, with the three-week break used to stay consistent rather than overhaul preparation.

“There wasn’t really a set focus. It was just coming together as a group, like we normally do, and just focusing on the areas that we really want to explore when it comes to Canberra.”

“We’re going to train hard, work together and make sure that we’ve put our best foot forward when it comes to playing on Saturday.”

Expectation at the club is constant, according to Blissett, and something players have to learn to manage quickly.

“I think we always carry the weight of expectation when it comes to playing at Victory. When you sign here, or you’ve been here for multiple years, you understand that there is that pressure, that expectation on you.”

The challenge is not letting that influence performance.

“At the end of the day, we can’t let that get to us. We need to keep calm, keep together, and just let the football do the talking.”

“You’re always going to feel an extra heaviness when it comes to a game like that. Any mistake can cost you a position moving forward and continuing your finals campaign.”

“If you let that get to you, well then you’re going to crumble.”

Trust within the group is also key to handling pressure.

“If you’re in a team where you know you’re going to get backed 100%, the stakes don’t feel as heavy. You’re able to go out there and play with a sense of freedom.”

That belief allows players to keep their identity intact in high stakes, knockout football.

“The pressure of finals football shouldn’t take away your ability to play football. Once you step on the field and the whistle goes, it just becomes like another game.”

A lifelong Melbourne Victory supporter, Blissett said reaching a finals campaign with the club carries extra meaning.

“I sometimes have little pinch myself moments that the club that I grew up supporting is a club that I’m now going into my first final campaign in two years with. To know that we could possibly lift silverware, and I could be lifting silverware with a bunch of girls who I love being around, for a club that I’ve supported since I can remember loving football, is super exciting.”

Still, the focus remains firmly on the immediate task.

“It is an elimination final. It’s one step at a time, and this week, the focus is making sure that we beat Canberra at McKellar Park.”

“It is a whole new ball game when it comes to finals. Victory are known for scraping in and doing well in finals.”

Looking at Canberra, she pointed to both their quality and the challenge of playing away.

“Canberra is a great side. They have great heart. Playing at McKellar is a tough place, especially when it’s a sold out crowd.”

“I think we let our football do the talking. If we can match their heart, I think that will be fine.”

Preparation has centred on key tactical areas.

“We’ve been working on a press, on how we can nullify Michelle Heyman. They’ve got a great midfield so we’ve got to make sure that we’re on the ball, and also making sure that we’re concentrating on ourselves and what we need to do to be able to win the game.”

There is also added emotion around the fixture given uncertainty surrounding Canberra’s future within the league, but Blissett said that cannot change the approach.

When asked whether there was room for sentimentality under the difficult circumstances Cnaberra found themselves in, she acknowledged the emotion attached to the game, but was clear about the competitive reality. 

“Unfortunately, not. From the outside looking in, and from knowing some of these girls personally and playing against Canberra since I’ve been in the league, my first ever W league game, was going to watch Canberra play.”

“There is a bit of sentiment there. Obviously it’s devastating if they do fold. But at the end of the day, we have a job to do, and if we want to move forward, it is by making that their last home game, possibly.”

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