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

By Kieran Yap 26/8/26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Appreciation of Melbourne Victory’s debut season

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

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

By Kieran Yap 18/8/26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Appreciation of Kieran Meyers and Maggie Byrne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

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

by Ben Gilby (17/8/26)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Scottish Women’s Premier League One Season Preview

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

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

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

Aberdeen

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

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

Final league position prediction: 8^th.

Celtic

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

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

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

Final league position prediction: 5^th.

Glasgow City

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

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

Final league position prediction: 1^st.

Heart of Midlothian

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

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

Final league position prediction: 4^th.

Hibernian

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

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

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

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

Final league position prediction: 2^nd.

Montrose

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

Final league position prediction: 7^th.

Motherwell

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

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

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

Final league position prediction: 6^th.

Partick Thistle

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

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

Final league position prediction: 9^th.

Rangers

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

Final league position prediction: 3^rd.

Spartans FC

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

Final league position prediction: 10^th.

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

by Ben Gilby (15/8/26)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(c) Impetus 2026.

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

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

by Ben Gilby (13/8/26)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(c) Impetus 2026

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

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NPLW Vic R23: Victory win again & Accardo steps up for Avondale

By Kieran Yap 12/8/26

Above: Aleks Sinclair of Spring Hills FC (left) and Melbourne Victory’s Aeryn Tarrant battle for possession Photo: Passion Creations

Box Hill take a major step towards the premiership, Essendon show no signs of Nike Cup hangover and Victory win again.

Friday night saw Preston Lions win 2-0 over Melbourne City. Valentine Pursey opened the scoring in the third minute to give Preston the best possible start. Fiorina Iaria won the ball just inside the attacking half and surged toward goal. A quick change of pace as she approached the box created space and the cross made for an easy finish for a player of Pursey’s quality.

Iaria’s electric pace set up Preston’s second. The winger ran more than half the length of the pitch down the right and cut the ball back for Eva Harrington to complete a nearly identical goal in the 34^th minute.

The result makes for Preston’s second win in a row, and that good form will continue if they are to get a result in next weekend’s game against Essendon.

Essendon Royals hosted Bentleigh Greens in an entertaining, high scoring encounter that ended 5-2 to the hosts. Even without one of the heroes of the Cup Final win Maggie Jenkins away playing against Chelsea, Essendon still packed plenty of firepower.

Grace Maher started in an attacking role, joined by Bronte Peel and Bella Sewards. Kelli McGroarty led the line as usual and essentially sealed the golden boot with another two goals to take her tally to 29 in the league.

Essendon were on the front foot early. Kendrah Smith’s free kick from near halfway bounced off the head of Bentleigh midfielder Yuka Sato to deliver the opener via own goal.

Bentleigh hit back quickly. Mia Otero’s rocket from the wing caught everybody by surprise and dipped over Zara Board to level the scores.

Although Essendon were creating the better chances, neither team had control over the pace of the game on a bobbly Cross Keys Reserve. The ball seemed to ping-pong between midfields and it made for a fast paced and unpredictable half.

Maher helped deliver Essendon’s second with a classy run through the middle before setting up Peel out wide. The winger’s cross bounced back to Maher. Her volleyed effort was blocked, but Sewards was on hand to direct the ball past Melissa Barbieri from close range.

Some Otero magic was the force behind Bentleigh equalizing again. The American striker robbed Mikaela Jurcic of possession deep in attack and although Board did well to save, Christina Sousa reacted quickest to force the ball into the net.

It felt like Essendon had more goals in them after the break, principally because McGroarty had not yet scored, and she always scores.

She had her first when she control Peel’s cutback, turned the defender inside-out to make space and finished on her left.

Amy Parkinson’s ball in set up Essendon’s fourth as the floodgates threatened to open. McGroarty’s back post header was spectacularly saved by Barbieri, but the Matildas legend could do nothing to stop Maher pouncing on the rebound to make it 4-2.

McGroarty scored her 29^th goal of the season with a bullet header to finish off Akeisha Sandhu’s well-delivered corner. With two games left in the campaign, it would take a miracle for anybody to catch her at the top of the scoring charts.

Essendon’s win keeps them in the hunt for the premiership. They will depend on Box Hill dropping points in the next two games and on paper that is possible, but their game in this round makes them look hard to beat.

Bulleen Lions and Box Hill faced off at the Veneto Club in another high scoring match. A late goal secured all three points in a 3-2 win for the table topping visitors but they were made to earn it by a very exciting if unlucky Lions display.

Despite Box Hill dominating general play for large periods, Bulleen had their chances. Sarah Cain came close in the fifth minute, and that was answered by attempts by Juri Kawana and Rhianna Pollicina.

The home side struck first with a goal of real quality. Claudia Mihocic launched a perfect ball from defence into the path of speedster Alana Cortellino. The Bulleen winger tore into the space behind Box Hill’s defenders and hit the far top corner of the net with a beautiful strike at full pace.

The visitors were rewarded for their persistence with a 36^th minute equalizer. Holly Murray rose highest to score from Pollicina’s dangerously placed corner.

Bulleen re-took the lead minutes after kickoff in the second half. Olivia Bomford’s quick feet put Cortellino in space again, and her cross was finished by Nia Salleh on the 47^th minute.

Pollicina’s set pieces continued to be a problem for Bulleen when her free kick from deep and wide somehow evaded everyone to level the scores again in the 79^th minute.

The star playmaker sealed the three points with an excellent half volley from the top of the box. Gabrielle Simpson crossed the ball and it bounced kindly for Pollicina who delivered a goal worthy of winning any match.

Ava Briedis and Nikki Furukawa both had chances to claw pack a point for Bulleen but Box Hill held onto the lead and maintain their grip on top spot. Bulleen fall back to fourth behind Avondale FC.

The season’s awakening giant climbed to third on the table with a 1-0 win over South Melbourne.

South Melbourne enjoyed a numerical advantage for most of this game after Gulcan Genitsaris was sent off in the 25^th minute. But an Elise Kellond-Knight olimpico gave Avondale the lead in the 35^th.

South tried to make the most of being a player and had more shots on goal. Unfortunately most were blocked and only three efforts were on target.

Avondale’s defence held strong and mostly limited South Melbourne to long range efforts or one through a block of players and the equalizer never arrived.

This feels like a missed opportunity for South, but also a turning point for Avondale. So far they have been climbing the ladder, scoring goals and getting wins, but most of these games have been on their terms. This win showed that they can dig deep and win in a gritty contest. It was convincing ahead of finals.

It was probably not the way they planned for the afternoon to go, but it was perhaps a test that they needed and they passed.

A fairly even game between Alamein FC and Boroondara Eagles ended in a 1-0 win to Boroondara. Emily Lewis scored the only goal of the game immediately after kicking off the second half. Emma Vane’s ball over the top found Lewis on the wing and her lofted finish carried into the net despite Anna Liacopoulos’s lunging effort to clear.

Savannah Anastasopoulos and Anais Josefski both had attempts to equalize but could not beat Mia Mossman, while Genevieve Fontes responded for Boroondara, coming close to doubling the lead only to be foiled by Mirinda Templeman.

Melbourne Victory secured an impressive win 3-1 win over Spring Hills FC in Sunday’s only game. Leyla Hussein, Ella O’Grady and Jasmine Millar all scored for the home side, with Aleks Sinclair scoring a typically excellent solo goal for the visitors.

Victory dominated possession early, and were rewarded with a goal in 10^th minute through Hussein. Poppy O’Keeffe won the ball back in the attacking half with a well-timed interception and cut the ball in-board for Sienna Saveska to try from distance.

Ayana Aoyagi made a good save from the dipping effort, by Hussein was able to stay composed and score from the rebound.

Sienna Techera’s cross from the right set up the second before half an hour of play. Saveska was once again the target and although she miss-hit the volley, the ball fell to O’Grady to score from point blank range.

A work of art from Sinclair pulled one back for Spring Hills. The star forward gathered the ball at halfway, took one touch to beat the first defender and surged clear of another to finish from an improbable angle at the corner of the box to make it 2-1.

Some confusion surrounded the third goal. Hussein’s cross from the right was met by Millar, but it looked at first as though Aoyagi made the save on the line. Some goalmouth scrambling followed before Saveska made sure of things, but then the whistle blew. After some discussion among the officials, the referee rewarded a goal to Victory. Millar’s first effort was the one that counted.

In Appreciation of Isabella Accardo

The game between Avondale FC and South Melbourne was one of the blockbusters of the round, and despite the scoreline it was dramatic. Both sides are capable of scoring goals, and both can boast some of the best individual defenders in the state.

One of those defenders is Avondale’s Isabella Accardo. The 20 year old centre back has been excellent all season for her new side since arriving at The Calabria Club from Bulleen and Melbourne City. She has played in all 23 games for Avondale and has often been among the best players in a star studded lineup.

Accardo is a centre back with composure beyond her years, and that was on full display in the 1-0 win over South Melbourne. When Gulcan Genitsaris was sent off for a foul on Alexis Pantazopoulos in the 24th minute, Accardo became the senior defender for her side.

Avondale shifted only slightly in formation and barely at all in tactics. Cameron Barriero moved to central defence, Beattie Goad dropped to left back and Ellie Wilson remained at right back. Barriero is better known for her dangerous left-footed curling crosses, but struck up an immediate partnership with Accardo, allowing Avondale the foundation they needed to defend the lead and launch counter attacks.

Writing about defenders can be comparatively difficult. Sometimes if they play the perfect game it means that not much happens at all, which is essentially what goalkeepers, coaches and defenders want in a situation like this. South tried to make things happen, they had the players to do so, and created plenty of chances, but Avdondale’s makeshift back four, led by Accardo mopped up, and blocked attacks throughout the remaining 75 minutes of play.

Accardo was well positioned against every attack, handled the pressure of defending the lead, and was calm on the ball as Avondale passed their way into midfield.

Her positioning and reading of the game made it difficult for South Melbourne’s speedy attackers to get behind, and when dealing with one ball over the top and under significant pressure, she had the presence of mind and technique to carefully nod the ball back for Brooke Bennett to pick up.

There was no room for error as Avondale maintained their slim advantage, and the Avondale back four handled that pressure admirably. Accardo was a key reason for that clean sheet. It was not a performance that makes the highlight reels, but it was definitely a match-winning one.

Vine arrives at City as Yallop departs the Roar for Wellington

Lots of big news coming out of the A-League Women clubs today (11/8/26)

Above: Cortnee Vine (left) and Tameka Yallop at a Matildas media conference – both today made major moves in the A-League Women. Photo: Football Australia.

Melbourne City today announced the arrival of Matildas star Cortnee Vine.

Vine returns home following two seasons in the United States with North Carolina Courage in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), bringing experience from one of the world’s strongest domestic competitions.

The 28-year-old arrives in Melbourne with 30 Matildas caps and three international goals to her name, representing Australia at both the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

It was at the World Cup where Vine etched her name into Australian sporting history during the Matildas’ unforgettable run to the Semi Finals.

In front of more than 49,000 fans in Brisbane and millions watching around the country, Vine calmly converted the decisive penalty against France to seal a dramatic 7-6 shootout victory and send Australia through to its first-ever World Cup Semi Final.

Vine also returns as one of the Ninja A-League’s most accomplished players, having made more than 100 appearances and won three Premierships and two Championships before making the move to the NWSL in 2024.

She went on to make 23 appearances and score twice for North Carolina Courage between 2024 and 2026, adding further experience at a high level before now returning to Australian football.

Renowned for her explosive pace, direct running and ability to beat defenders one-on-one, Vine adds another dimension to Michael Matricciani’s attacking options as City prepares to defend its Premiership and Championship titles in 2026/27.

Her arrival also provides a major boost ahead of City’s third consecutive AFC Women’s Champions League campaign as the Club continues to target success both domestically and on the continental stage.

With Sydney FC fans long hoping that Vine would return to their club after her spell in America, this news will be devastating for them.

Speaking about her move to City, Vine emphasised the continual growth and high expectations that the club set for themselves.

“I’ve watched what City has achieved over the last few seasons and the standards this group continues to set, so the opportunity to come into that environment and be part of a team competing for trophies was really exciting to me,” the Matildas star said.

“My time in the NWSL has helped me grow both as a player and a person, and I’m looking forward to bringing those experiences back to Australia.

“I can’t wait to meet my new teammates, get out on the pitch and do everything I can to help bring more success to the Club.”

**Above:** The arrival of Tameka Yallop at Wellington Phoenix is a huge move for Bev Priestman’s side. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Meanwhile, Brisbane Roar today confirmed that Tameka Yallop has choosen to remain in New Zealand to be closer to family and as such will be joining Wellington Phoenix.

Yallop leaves as Brisbane Roar’s all-time record appearance holder and all-time leading goalscorer in the club’s women’s program, finishing on 179 matches and 74 goals.

A foundation player for the then Queensland Roar, Yallop first pulled on the orange jersey in 2008 for the club’s inaugural women’s season, aged 17. She was part of both of the club’s Championship-winning campaigns and scored in both Grand Finals, and won three Premierships. In total she spent 14 seasons at the Roar across multiple stints, competing in the United States, Germany, Japan, Sweden, Norway and England in between.

Her first stint ran for ten years from 2008 to 2018. She returned to Brisbane in 2019, and again ahead of the 2023/24 season, where she stayed for three seasons and captained the side.

The 2024/25 campaign was among the finest of her career. In Round Three she played her 153rd match for the club, passing Clare Polkinghorne to become Brisbane Roar’s record appearance holder. She went on to become the club’s all-time women’s goalscorer, finished the regular season with 12 goals, and became the second highest goalscorer in the history of the A-League Women behind Michelle Heyman. She is also the first player in the competition’s history to score five hat-tricks.

Yallop was named the club’s Kate McShea Medallist for 2024/25 along with the Players’ Player and Golden Boot awards, won A-League Women Player of the Month three times that season, and was named in the PFA Team of the Season.

In her final campaign in 2025/26 she returned from a hamstring injury in the closing rounds as the Roar finished fourth and reached a semi-final, the club’s first finals appearance in five years. She was subsequently named the first member of the Ninja A-League Women All Stars squad to face Chelsea.

Yallop’s individual honours also include the Julie Dolan Medal as the competition’s Player of the Year in 2014 and the W-League Players’ Player of the Year award in 2012/13.

Her standing at the club was formally recognised in May, when Brisbane Roar’s Ninja A-League Women Young Player of the Year award was renamed in her honour. That standing will be extended once again with Brisbane Roar confirming they will retire the number 13 from the women’s squad in honour of her contribution to the club. She becomes the first player, man or woman, to have their number retired by the club.

Speaking on departing, Tameka Yallop said, “I’m not saying goodbye to Brisbane as Roar will always be my home. The orange jersey is heavily immersed in my football journey and it will forever be a part of me.

“I am so proud and honoured to have lifted trophies and shared the field with such incredible players and people throughout my time at the club. I am Roar’s number one fan and will forever be cheering on the girls and anyone who puts on that jersey.

“We have so many amazing young players coming through, I’m excited to follow their football journey and will of course be a source of support whenever I’m needed.

“The girls have not only been amazing teammates and friends, they have and will continue to be so inspirational to both of my young daughters.”

Speaking on departing, Brisbane Roar CEO Kaz Patafta said, “Tameka defines what it means to be a Brisbane Roar footballer.

“She was there for the very first match in 2008 and she kept coming back because this is home.”

Wellington Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman was thrilled with her new arrival, saying: “We’re bringing someone into the group with an immense amount of experience…for a decorated Australian international like Tameka to make the move to the Wellington Phoenix speaks volumes about where the club is now at.

“She’ll really add to the team. Tameka can play multiple positions, she’s dynamic, has a lot of energy, is technically very gifted and she scores goals, which was one of the key reasons for signing her.”

Reflecting on the move to the Phoenix, Yallop revealed: “My wife is a Kiwi, so I have pretty strong ties to New Zealand…We have two little ones and…it’s come to the point where we wanted to repesent the New Zealand side of the family.

“I’m chasing that trophy, and so is Wellington, so we’re aligned. Getting the opportunity to work under Bev was a massive drawcard, not to mention the facilities at NZCIS. They’re second to none.”

Newcastle Jets

Meanwhile, Newcastle Jets have announce that Claire Adams has re-signed for the next two seasons.

The midfielder began her journey at the Club in the Academy before making her A-League debut in a 1-0 win against Wellington Phoenix in 2024.

Adams has made 25 appearances for the Jets in her career so far, scoring one goal.

“I’m incredibly grateful to wear the badge of the Jets again this season. I’m ready to give my absolute all when playing for the jersey and I want to repay our loyal fans that turn up to support us through everything,” she said.

@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

A-League Women News

Three clubs have today announced players to their roster as the build up to the new season continues. Impetus’ Ben Gilby collates all the details (6/8/26).

Above: Abby Erceg unveiled by Wellington Phoenix today as their latest signing. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.

Newcastle Jets

After announcing the departure of eight members of last season’s squad yesterday, Newcastle Jets today revealed that goalkeeper Georgia Ritchie has re-signed with the club for the next two seasons.

Ritchie joined the Jets last season, joining from Canberra United, and made six appearances across the 2025/26 season. The young shot-stopper was also selected for the 2026 AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup in Thailand.

Ritchie explained why she was so happy to remain at the club for the next two seasons, saying: “Last season gave me some incredible opportunities and I’m grateful to the Club, Stephen (Hoyle, head coach) and Claire Coelho, the goalkeeper coach for that. I’m looking forward to what lies ahead this season and to continue my journey in Newcastle.”

Newcastle Jets Head Coach Stephen Hoyle outlined why he was so keen to keep Ritchie at the club: “Georgia is a player who has earned the opportunity to continue her development with the Newcastle Jets.

“She consistently demonstrates professionalism, a strong work ethic and a commitment to improving, all of which make her a valuable member of our team.

“I have no doubt Georgia’s ambition is to establish herself as the number one goalkeeper for this Young Matildas cycle.”

The news comes the day after the club released Josie Wilson, Olivia Page, India Breier, Haley Johnson, Charlotte Lancaster, Melina Ayres, Anna Leat, and Kelli Brown.

Perth Glory

Perth Glory have confirmed that versatile defender Ella Buchanan has joined the after her departure from Western Sydney Wanderers.

The 22-year-old has spent the last three seasons with at the New South Wales club making almost 50 ALW appearances, scoring four goals and adding three assists.

Generally deployed at left-back, she featured in 20 games for Wanderers last term, making 68 tackles, completing 42 interceptions and 403 successful passes and also creating 16 chances.

Buchanan, who previously represented her native New South Wales in football, athletics and netball at junior level, is now looking forward to opening a new chapter of her career in Western Australia.

“I’m eager to join Perth Glory as I feel this is a great opportunity for me to not only grow as a player, but also as a person,” she said.

“The club has a great community backing it and whenever I have played at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, the fans have always created an atmosphere full of enthusiasm and belief. I hope to work alongside the girls to reflect that energy and passion on the pitch.

“I’m also looking forward to immersing myself in the club’s culture and putting my best foot forward each week to contribute to a successful Finals series.”

Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis spoke of his delight in getting Buchanan on board, believing she can make a major contribution to the club’s bid to secure Finals football.

“Ella is a great pick-up for us and we’re delighted to have her on board,” he said.

“As well as being a strong defender, she’s also very comfortable on the ball, likes to get forward and is versatile enough to play in several different positions at the back and in midfield.

“With nearly 50 games under her belt, Ella also brings plenty of experience and we’re confident that she will be an important player for us this year.”

Wellington Phoenix

**Above:** Abby Erceg in action for New Zealand at the Rio Olympics in 2016. **Photo:** New Zealand Herald.

Wellington Phoenix have signed Football Ferns legend Abby Erceg on a one-year contract.

Erceg, 36, is one of New Zealand’s greatest footballers. On top of being the fourth most capped Football Fern and playing at four World Cups and four Olympic Games, she has played more than 200 matches in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the U.S.A. and has captained three championship-winning NWSL teams.

She has also previously played in Australia and Germany, and for the past year and a half has played for Liga MX Femenil club Toluca in Mexico.

Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman is delighted to add Erceg’s “quality and experience” to the team.

“While we had an outstanding season and we went to the A-League grand final this year, we identified we need more experience and to continue to add winners to the team,” Priestman said.

“In Abby we’ve got that. We’ve got a player who knows exactly what you need to be able to win at the highest level. As well as playing at World Cups and Olympic Games, and the pressure that comes with that, she has finals experience from one of the best leagues in the world.

“Abby has a real burning desire to push women’s football in New Zealand to new heights. That really stood out from the conversations I’ve had with her. She’s just the player we need to ensure the club has sustained success.”

Reflecting on her return home to New Zealand, Erceg said: “I want to give back to the game in New Zealand,” Erceg said. “It’s been a goal of mine to come back and play and have my family and friends see me playing professionally week-in, week-out.

“I want to drive the awareness around women’s football here and push that in the last couple of years of my career.

“And I want to get as many girls as we possibly can up to a higher level and just expose them to what’s required if they do want to go overseas, or if we can help the A-League grow that’s even better.

“I’m quite keen to get my hands dirty and do as much as I can while I’m still relevant and can have that influence.”

“At times in New Zealand we’ve lacked a lot of resources and we’ve lacked a lot of investment in the women’s game, but Wellington are doing a really good job and that’s something that I want to be part of. I want to be part of a club that invests and sees the vision in women’s football.

“You can see it growing around the world and our job together is to help it grow in New Zealand as well.”

She will move to Wellington later this month ahead of the start of pre-season training but has already visited the Phoenix’s base at the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport (NZCIS).

“As soon as I walked in and saw the gym I was like ‘I’m in the right place’. The facilities at NZCIS are better than I’ve had at any club that I’ve been at in the world. It was absolutely phenomenal. It blew my mind.

“I’m super excited to be coming to work every day in an environment where there’s absolutely no excuse. We can’t blame anything on anything because they provide absolutely everything we need.”

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Light shining brighter in the Ville after big week

by Alyce Collett (4/8/26)

Above: It was happy times for Racing Louisville on the weekend after defeating Chicago to win their second of three matches within the span of a week. Photo: via NWSL.

Racing Louisville have completed a triple match week in their National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) schedule on a high note, defeating Chicago to take a second win out of the three matches.

Speaking to the media after the match, Racing Louisville coach Bev Yanez spoke of how big the win was in the context of the season, especially considering the 2026 season has not always gone to plan for her side.

“I think this is big for us to get six points of a potential nine points with three games in seven days” Yanez said.

“We told the group from the start that we needed everybody, and I believe they did just that tonight.

“They executed really well. We went up 2-0, which gave us a lot of confidence. At the end, we did our best in every way, shape, and form. Obviously, when you get plus nine minutes, you’re like, ‘Jeez-a-moly’, but did everything that we possibly could to make sure that we closed out the match.

It got a little nerve-wracking, but we took care of business. We walked away with three points, and that’s ultimately what we wanted.”

She also spoke highly of the overall effort from her team in the win over Chicago.

“I thought we created a lot today” Yanez said.

“and we spoke about it at halftime, that we believed the game would be won in possession. Felt like the press was really good, felt we put them under enough for them to go back and then go long, and then compete for first and seconds there.

“Said that we needed some quality final actions, a bit more. But feel really good that we walked away again with the three points, especially here at home.”

One thing she also agreed on was the notion that the planning of the week – which began with a win over Angel City the previous week and also included a mid week trip to Kansas City – had helped her side play so well against the Stars.

She said that “I think people have been competing and have continued to compete” which had “put us in a good position here to get what we could from this match specifically, and get who we believed we could on in the game and what we felt the game plan was going to be and who we felt would execute it in those specific roles.

“But again, called on people early. I think Ellie Jean came out in maybe the 50^th, around there, and Courtney [Petersen] stepped in and did really well. I thought EJ [Ellie Jean] had a fantastic first half.

“So I think it’s just showcased that this has paid dividends for us when players are getting minutes and getting experience. I think when they’re called upon, they’re executing in those opportunities.”

Although Yanez has kept a pretty settled starting formation in recent matches – choosing to go with the exact same starting formation for a number of matches in a row – Yanez said that she is “still trying to find what we feel is best based off of opposition.”

“That’s a huge part of what we’re doing and a huge part of what we believe we have in the ability to execute a game plan” Yanez explained.

“So I think it ultimately comes down to opposition and what we feel they may offer, and what we feel the tendencies of which players would fit and suit which roles.”

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