By Isabelle Campbell and Kieran Yap 12/9/25
Above: Heidelberg United after winning the 2025 Premiership . Photo: Heidelberg United
Ahead of the biggest game of the Victorian season, Impetus writers look at the strengths of both sides in the Grand Final.
Why Heidelberg United will win- By Isabelle Campbell
Heidelberg United are heading into the grand final against Box Hill United with a clear purpose. They finished the regular season on top of the ladder, dominating the league with consistency, and have the quality and experience to finish the job.
A key figure in their success is Sawa Matsuda, the golden boot winner, who has scored 19 of Heidelberg’s 52 goals this season. Her impact in the final third has been pivotal, and in a high-stakes game where chances may be limited, her ability to turn moments into goals could be the difference maker.
Heidelberg also carry the advantage of experience. As reigning champions, they know what it takes to win under pressure. That calmness and resilience in big games is something that can’t be understated and it could play a massive role against a strong Box Hill United side.
What sets Heidelberg apart is their balance. From back to front, they’re organised, composed, and dangerous. They’ve shown they can win in different ways, whether it be a high-scoring sweep or a hard-fought battle.
But perhaps most importantly, they’re motivated. This season has challenged them in ways that went far beyond the pitch. Through it all, they’ve held strong and now they’re just one game away from finishing it on their own terms. That quiet resilience, combined with their proven quality, makes them incredibly tough to beat.
And for one of Heidelberg’s most beloved, there’s added meaning. This grand final will be the last game for captain Steph Galea, the definition of a club legend. Her leadership, passion, and commitment have defined an era for Heidelberg. As she prepares to hang up the boots, her teammates will be driven not only by the desire to win, but to send off their captain in the best possible way, with another championship.
With belief, experience, and a strong sense of purpose, Heidelberg United are ready to bring it home, again.
Why Box Hill will win -By Kieran Yap
Box Hill United are in unprecedented form, and there is nothing to say that they cannot continue their winning streak in The Grand Final.
The semi final win against Bulleen was convincing mostly because it was not easy. Bulleen had the upper hand early and hit the woodwork twice before going 1-0 ahead.
Some sides might see this as a sign of their luck starting to slip, Box Hill reacted to it like it was just another challenge.
They not only equalised, but took the lead before half time, when the game opened up, they looked comfortable, when it became a bit of an arm wrestle, they relished it.
This is a side that does not look intimidated by the occasion or the opposition, but beyond belief and momentum, they have the players to beat Heidelberg.
In defence, Holly Murray has been in imperious form, Chloe McKenzie has earned the attention of Melbourne Victory and Elwn Parbery has evolved into one of the league’s best full backs.
In midfield, Josie Aulicino is dominant and explosive. A midfield who can slow the tempo, maintain possession or burst through the centre of the pitch.
It is in attack where Box Hill dazzle most, and this is where they will likely present the biggest test for Heidelberg’s back four.
Carina Rossi is a pure striker, predatory, mobile and quick. She can hold the ball up as well as she finish and the Box Hill number Nine developed an instant rapport with her midfield when she arrived after a season with Melbourne City.
Rhianna Pollicina and Sofia Sakalis are inventive and powerful. The dual playmakers can unlock a packed defence with a clever pass or simply shoot over it from distance if given the opportunity.
On the bench they have game breakers. The youthful but dangerous pair of Georgia Karaparidis and Sienna Techera have slight different skill sets, but can both alter a match in a second.
Karaparidis is tricky and confident, daring defenders to try and tackle her, and able to create space for herself and teammates. Techera is simply spectacular, capable of scoring incredible goals from almost anywhere within 20 yards, and from any angle.
When these two sides last met, it was a 2-0 win to Box Hill, and they have only improved since then.
They have shown that even if things are not going to plan, they have the tools and minds set to change it to their favour.
The stage is set for a classic Grand Final.
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