City take the Victory in big Derby clash

Melbourne Victory 2-3 Melbourne City

by Emma Burke at AAMI Park for Impetus (9/11/24)

Above: Lourdes Bosch celebrates after scoring the equaliser for Melbourne City earlier today. Photo: Melbourne City.

Melbourne City have come from behind for the second week in a row to defeat Melbourne Victory 3-2 in a feisty Derby at AAMI Park.

City opened the scoring in the sixth minute through Mariana Speckmaier after Victory were caught ball-watching.

Victory won a penalty after Emily Gielnik was taken down in the box by Bryleeh Henry. Gielnik made no mistake from the spot and converted to tie up the score in the 20th minute.

A big scare came for City after Taylor Otto went down for an extended period clutching her knee. Otto was bowled over by Alanna Jančevski who received a yellow card for the challenge.

Victory pulled ahead just before the half, executing a training ground goal in perfect time. New signing Nikki Flannery’s cutback found Alanna Jančevski unmarked near the spot and her first-time shot was well weighted to beat the keeper at the near post. 

Lourdes Bosch pulled one back for the away team, taking advantage of an uncharacteristically poor back pass from Claudia Bunge to keeper Courtney Newbon.

City’s game-winner came to Mariana Speckmaier late in the game, when substitute Leticia McKenna played an impressive ball over the top for her to run onto. Speckmaier beat her defender long enough to get the shot off and beat a diving Newbon.

Despite throwing everything they could at City’s defence, including Kayla Morrison into the attacking line, Victory could not find an equaliser.

“We finished the game pushing to try and get an equaliser… but we were our own worst enemy,” said Victory Head Coach, Jeff Hopkins after the whistle.

However, City’s Head Coach Michael Matricciani had only praise for his squad’s win, saying, “In the end we found the solution to unlock them to get the couple of goals in the second half, which were well deserved.”

Victory host Western United at the Home of the Matildas next Sunday for their round three fixture, while City welcome Central Coast Mariners to Casey Fields on Saturday.

Check out out Instagram feed – @ImpetusFootball – for Beck Hartley’s EXCLUSIVE photography for us from the game!

Teams: MELBOURNE VICTORY (4-3-3): Newbon, Wilson, Bunge, Goad, Murphy, Chidiac, Flannery, Gielnik, Morrison, Lowe, Jančevski. Substitutes: D’Appolonia, Sakalis, Meyers.

Scorers: Gielnik 20’ (pen), Jančevski 42’.

MELBOURNE CITY (3-5-2): Mieres, Otto, Harvey, Apostolakis, Pollicina, Huges, Roestbakken, Speckmaier, Davidson, Bosch, Henry. Substitutes: McKenna, Vlajnic, Murray.

Scorers: Speckmaier 6’, 86’, Bosch 64’.

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello.

Attendance: 3,850.

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All level between Western & The Mariners

Report by Alyce Collett, EXCLUSIVE photographty from Adrian Geremia (8/11/24)

Above: Aimee Medwin (5) sails high to head the ball in attack. Photo Adrian Geremia for Impetus

Western United 0-0 Central Coast Mariners

Western United and the Central Coast Mariners have played out an entertaining goalless draw to kick off the second round of the A-League Women season. 

In stark contrast to the goal fest at the same venue a week prior, the match was still very entertaining despite the lack of goals on the scoreboard. 

The first half saw Western United have slightly more of the ball, but at 53 to 47% it was not a huge advantage. 

For much of the half, neither side really looked like scoring, with Alyssa Dall’oste and Sarah Langman rarely challenged. Central Coast had the only shot that really troubled a keeper, but a well positioned Western United defence saw the home side able to clear it off the line.

Both sides did have their chances though, with Western United recording 11 shots in the first half (with five of them on target) compared to the Mariners three shots (with one being on target).

For Western United, Catherine Zimmerman and later Aimee Medwin were getting space out wide and looking really dangerous, but the passes and the finishing from United’s midfielders did not set their team mates up for success. 

Meanwhile for Central Coast, Jade Pennock and Taylor Ray centrally and Brooke Nunn and later Peta Trimis out wide certainly generated plenty of attacking momentum for their side, but Western United’s defenders were able to position themselves really well and halt that momentum around the top of the box.

The second half was just as entertaining as the first, but did not produce any more goals than the first half did. 

Both sides continued to have enough opportunities in the second half, but faced very different problems when trying to shoot on goal. 

For the home side, despite how industrious Kahli Johnson and Chloe Logarzo were, they faced a very congested box with too many bodies from both sides in the way of the United strikers getting a goal. For the Mariners, they had plenty of space and caught the United defenders off guard on a number of occasions, but were thwarted by heavy touches and inaccurate shots on goal.  

Western United were the ones who got closest to breaking the deadlock, not only by recording significantly more shots than the Mariners but by those shots getting closer to hitting the back of the net than any of the Mariners’ shots did. Western United had seven shots to three for the half, with two of them on target compared to the Mariners’ zero. 

Check out our Instagram feed – @ImpetusFootball – for more of Adrian Geremia’s exclusive photos for us from the game.

Teams: WESTERN UNITED (4-4-2): Dall’oste, Grove, Cerne, Maher, M.Taranto, Dehakiz, Hieda, Logarzo, Medwin, Johnson, Zimmerman. Substitutes: Lincoln, Roach, Eggesvik, Ibarguen, Sardo.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (5-3-2): Langman, Irwin, Nash, Martin, Gome, Pennock, Galic, Ray, Puxty, Nunn, Trimis. Substitutes: Morrissey, Rasmussen, Quilligan, McMahon, Evans.

Attendance: 617.

Referee: Mikayla Ryan.

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The Young Gunners: Arsenal’s bright future

Isabelle Campbell 8/11/24

Above: Arsenal prodigy Vivienne Lia. Photo: Arsenal

Although their senior squad is packed with talent, it is only the tip of the iceberg at Arsenal.

As Arsenal Women are well underway in both their WSL and Champions League endeavours, the club’s dedication to developing emerging young talents is more apparent than ever.

While established squad members provide the framework of the team, it’s often the youthful spirit and desire to prove that can trigger a needed change in gameplay. This season, a handful of Arsenal’s youngest players are not only eyeing future possibilities; they are set to make their mark on the present. 

Let’s break down a few of these young players’ potential and see how they’re ready to contribute to Arsenal Women’s success this season; from the attacking threat of Freya Godfrey and Vivienne Lia, game control of Laila Harbert and composed defending of Katie Reid, these young talents are stepping up into key roles this season.

Katie Reid

18-year-old centre-back Katie Reid climbed her way up through the academy and into the first team where she recently signed her first professional contract. The defender made her first team debut in the Gunners 5-0 WSL victory over Bristol City in April this year. Known for her strong defensive skills and ball distribution, Reid has quickly established herself as a valuable asset to the squad. As a centre-back, her composure under pressure and quick decision-making abilities are all the makings of a world-class defender.  

Training and playing alongside fellow Arsenal Academy graduates and centre-backs Leah Williamson and Lotte Wubben-Moy grant Reid invaluable mentorship from two of the top players in her position. Drawing from Williamson’s leadership and Wubben-Moy’s tactical insight, Reid is set to elevate her capabilities and upgrade her game to potentially become a future foundation of Arsenal’s defensive line.

Reid’s recent signing illustrates the club’s trust in her potential, as she continues to hone and build upon her game, Katie Reid has the potential to be a key player for Arsenal Women, helping them to achieve this season and hopefully for many more to come.

Freya Godfrey

Looking to Arsenal’s forward line, Freya Godfrey signed her first professional contract with Arsenal in June of last year before being loaned out to Charlton Athletic the following month. Having been in the Arsenal Academy since the age of 12, Godfrey is an exciting young talent for the club, who showcases her versatility and attacking prowess at every opportunity.

Though only 19 years old, she has already gained significant experience through loan spells, including a notable stint at Ipswich Town under dual registration with Arsenal. Though she played primarily as a striker at Ipswich, Godfrey can play comfortably across the front line, offering Arsenal depth and flexibility in their attacking options.

Godfrey’s ability to adapt to jump into different roles, whether on the wing or as a central striker, allows for tactical adaptability while helping to manage squad rotation during the season. With the team participating in multiple competitions this season, squad rotation will be key.

Godfrey’s growth this season will be key, and if she can tap into her full potential in such a high-profile setting, she could quite easily establish herself as a key component for the North London club both now and in the future. Her skills on the ball, agility, and vision make for a potent attacking threat, whether creating chances for teammates or getting on the scoresheet herself.

Recently nominated for the Golden Girl Award, Freya Godfrey is positioned to be a game-changing player for the Gunners; her flair, fluidity, and forward-thinking plays are sure to pique the interest of fans and leave them wanting to see more of what she can bring to the table.

Vivienne Lia

Viv Lia made her senior team debut in the last fifteen minutes of the Conti Cup quarter-final victory over London City Lionesses at just 17. Lia is among Arsenal Women’s brightest young prospects, with a remarkable technical skillset and maturity beyond her young age. Self-described as a pacy winger, her composure under pressure and ability to control the tempo of a game stand out; even when surrounded by more experienced players Lia can hold her own without issue. As Arsenal looks to build upon their already all-star midfield, Lia’s flair makes for an exciting option to integrate into the first team over time.

Lia could be pivotal in helping Arsenal navigate the demands of their busy calendar this season. With injuries always being a concern and rotation a key factor in maintaining form across competitions, Lia’s presence could provide some moments of rest and relief to more senior midfielders whilst also giving her the opportunity to gain hugely valuable minutes.

Her ability to read gameplay and her tactical intelligence could make her a great option coming off the bench or potentially even as a starter. Lia’s development will be one for fans and competitors alike to watch, as she holds the potential to become a key component of Arsenal’s midfield for years to come.

Her performances in both training sessions and games will be closely watched, not just by the coaching staff but also by fans eager to see her evolution. The future is undeniably bright for this young player, and her journey promises to be thrilling to follow.

Laila Harbert

Laila Harbert has been with Arsenal since the age of nine, and now at just 17, she’s one of the club’s brightest young prospects. Outside of her club achievements, Harbert has also made a name for herself on the international stage, being named captain of the England U17 Lionesses. This leadership role highlights her maturity and ability to inspire those around her, both on and off the pitch.

A defensive midfielder, Harbert thrives under pressure, most notably when building up from the back. She’s more than comfortable taking on duals and finding a way through tight spaces, a skill she honed during her time training with the boys at Hale End. For three seasons, Harbert was one of just two girls training in the boys’ setup, an experience she says has helped to shape her as a player, noting how the quicker pace and physicality level helped to sharpen her skills.

Her development through Arsenal’s Academy is evident in her personal physicality and tactical intelligence. Arsenal’s packed schedule this season could offer her the opportunity to step up and give her the chance to relieve senior players and gain valuable WSL minutes. Having already proven herself for country, this season could well be her time to do the same for club.

Out on loan

In addition to Arsenal’s core squad, another three of the club’s young players are currently building upon their skills and gaining experience out on loan in the Women’s Championship this season. Centre-back Teyah Goldie is at Watford, focusing on rebuilding her defensive strength following her recovery from an ACL injury. Whilst forward Michelle Agyemang is developing her already immense attacking prowess at Brighton . Maddy Earl has joined Bristol City Women on a dual registration for the first half of the 2024-25 season. These loan spells are crucial for their growth, giving them the chance for regular game time in competitive environments before returning to Arsenal.

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Stirton names ParaMatildas World Cup squad

4/11/24

Above: ParaMatildas star Eloise Northam celebrating the team’s IFCPF Asia-Oceania Women’s Championships win last year. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

With the IFCPF World Cup in Spain just a week away, ParaMatildas head coach Kelly Stirton has named her squad for the tournament.

Stirton’s 10-player list consists of a mix of experience and youth with seasoned campaigners Rae Anderson, Georgia Beikhoff, and Elosie Northam leading the side.

Rebecca Jones and Trinity McPhie could make their ParaMatildas’ debut on the world stage, while Annmarie De Uriarte and Carly Salmon will be motivated to make their World Cup debuts.

Above: The ParaMatildas team at the 2022 IFCPF World Cup. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

In their first IFCPF World Cup appearance in 2022 – which was also the year the team was formed by Football Australia – the ParaMatildas progressed to the Gold Medal match before narrowly falling to the USA in extra-time. Following their triumph at the IFCPF Asia-Oceania Women’s Championships in 2023, the team will be determined to claim top honours.

Set to run from 11th-20th November, the ParaMatildas will kick-start their campaign at the IFCPF World Cup against Japan on Friday, 15 November at 12.30pm AEDT (2.30pm CET), before coming up against the USA on Sunday, 17 November at 12.30pm (2.30pm CET), Ireland on Monday, 18 November at 12.30pm AEDT (2.30pm CET) and Denmark on Tuesday, 19 November at 12.30pm AEDT (2.30pm CET). Women’s tournament fixtures and results can be found HERE.

ParaMatildas’ Head Coach Kelly Stirton expressed her excitement about witnessing what the squad will accomplish in Spain.

“This is what we have been building for since the Para Asian Cup in Melbourne last year and the players and staff cannot wait to showcase the progress and development made in that time,” Stirton said.

Above: ParaMatildas head coach Kelly Stirton. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

“The disappointment of losing the final at the last World Cup to the USA in extra time is fueling our desire to go one better and prove we’re the best women’s CP Football team in the world.

“Our squad contains plenty of firepower, speed, and agility making us a dynamic team on the field but we’re also fortunate to have a composed and positive team off the field.

“We are heading to Spain to play for each other and our country.  This team has shown me that obstacles put in front of them can be overcome by working together as a team and I can’t wait to see what they’re able to achieve in Spain,” Stirton concluded.

All ParaMatildas matches at the IFCPF World Cup 2024 will be streamed live and free on Football Australia’s YouTube Channel HERE.

PARAMATILDAS IFCPF WORLD CUP 2024 SQUAD

NAMEMEMBER FEDERATIONCAPS (Goals)
Rae ANDERSONNNSW Football9 (0)
Georgia BEIKOFFFootball NSW12 (22)
Tahlia BLANSHARDNNSW Football11 (1)
Annmarie DE URIARTEFootball NSW7 (11)*
Lainee HARRISONNNSW Football5 (5)
Rebecca JONESCapital Football0*
Eloise NORTHAMFootball NSW12 (9)
Trinity MCPHIEFootball QLD0*
Carly SALMON (Co-Cpt)Capital Football7 (4)*
Katelyn SMITH (Co-Cpt)Football West10 (5)

*Denotes potential IFCPF World Cup match debutant

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Jets and Wanderers fight out end-to-end draw

Newcastle Jets 2-2 Western Sydney Wanderers

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (3/11/24)

Above: Sophie Harding opens her account for the season. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers

The final match of the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season’s opening round ended in a 2-2 draw between Newcastle Jets and Western Sydney Wanderers, at Cessnock Sports Park, on Sunday. 

The meeting of these two sides was one of great contention, with the Jets knocking the Wanderers out of the title race last season, with an early season goal proving to be the difference between the Jets moving forward to the semi-final, and the Wanderers missing out.

The match could not be easily predicted with Newcastle placing sixth on the ladder in the previous season, just above Western Sydney’s seventh. The rivalry saw both teams open their 2024/25 season with aggressive play and an obvious determination, which lent itself to an exciting end to the opening round. 

Despite the Jets holding most of the possession from the first touch,  it was Western Sydney’s Sophie Harding who managed to net the first goal of the match just four minutes in. 

Possession remained in the attacking end for Newcastle throughout the first half, as they continued to capitalize on it, making several shots, and taking any opportunity they could get to equalize. The hosts made consistent attempts, including a shot from the center of the box by squad debutant Deven Jackson in the 14th minute, which was ultimately blocked when landing at the feet of Shamiran Khamis. 

Western Sydney’s defensive line proved too strong to allow their opponents a goal in the first half, despite the Jets’ tactical dominance. 

The 27th minute saw the visitors 2-0 up, with a goal from returning Wanderer Saveska, assisted by Harding. 

Saveska made her return to the club in search of game time, after a season with Championship winners Sydney FC and has brought back with her an attacking force that has already proven to be a valuable asset to the team.  

The match momentum continued through the first half, with a driving determination only furthering the Jets aggressive tactic. 

The third goal of the game was not found until the very last of the five minutes of added time in the first half, with a close-range header from Jackson, opening Newcastle Jets scoring for the season. The goal also marks her first goal for the club. 

Saveska opened the second half with an ambitious attempt from outside the box, assisted by Amy Chessari, which ultimately fell too wide to reach the back of the net. 

Newcastle’s last-minute goal in the first half seems to have lit a fire under the Wanderers,  as they showed a significant increase in passes and attempts, as opposed to the first half. 

Lauren Allan managed to find the equalizer at the 61st minute, assisted by Lara Gooch with an impressive through ball. 

As the match approached stoppage time, both sides made impactful substitutions. Sheridan Gallagher replaced Alexis Collins, in her return to the Ninja A-League, after winning the NRLW Premiership with Newcastle Knights in 2023. Gallagher caused an immediate impact on the pitch, settling back into the league in her Jets debut against her former club. 

Other notable substitutions included a double debut for Western Sydney in the 77th minute, with Amelia Cassar and Bronte Trew replacing goal scorers Sophie Harding and Sienna Saveska respectively. The match marked the first senior minutes for the pair, having signed scholarship deals with the club at the start of the season. 

The match remained aggressive and exciting toward the tail end. With five minutes of added time, both sides went into the final minutes with innate passion and determination, each searching for that winning goal, and seizing every opportunity to leave their opening match of the season with a win. 

Ultimately neither side managed to find the back of the net, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw. 

While the stats show a definite dominance in favor of the Jets, Western Sydney held their own against their rival, picking up tactically in the second half. 

The Wanderers are set to face Adelaide United next weekend and home and will surely be expecting a win after Adelaide placed at the bottom of the ladder in the 2023/24 season. It will be crucial, however, that the team doesn’t take their pursued dominance for granted, and continue to play with the same tactics and determination they displayed this week. 

Newcastle will be heading to HBF Park in the second round, going up against Perth Glory away. Though their opponent placed 10th last season, they have made several notable signings that could prove to be an unprecedented threat to their visitors. 

Teams: NEWCASTLE JETS (5-3-2): Krzyzaniak, Baumann, Cicco, Davis, Prior, Allan, Copus-Brown, Hoban, Jackson, Allan, Collins. Substitutes: Dundas, Gallagher, Gooch, Robertson, Wilson

Scorers: Jackson 45+ 4′, Allan 61’.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-4-2): Khamis, Matos, McComasky, Harrison, Hayward, Price, Saveska, Harasa, Chessari, Rue, Harding. Substitutes: Cassar, Kapetanellis, Segavcic, Trew, Younis

Scorers: Harding 4’, Saveska 27’.

Referee: Bec Mackie. 

Attendance: 2,858.

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Briedis belter wins it late for Victory

Adelaide United 2-3 Melbourne Victory

By Kieran Yap 2/11/24

Above: Ava Briedis, Kayla Morrison and Rosie Curtis react to the late winner. Photo: Melbourne Victory.

An Ava Briedis wonder goal secured an opening-day win for Melbourne Victory against Adelaide United.

Victory arrived in Adelaide missing goalkeeper Lydia Williams, or fullbacks Beattie Goad and Ellie Wilson. They faced a Reds team without Chelsie Dawber, Nano Sasaki, Dylan Holmes, and Isabel Hodgson.

It was the new signings for each side that sparkled early. Nikki Flannery delivered a low cross from the right for Emily Gielnik to open the scoring. The lead would last only two minutes before Fiona Worts celebrated her return to the club with a sixth-minute equaliser.

Despite the significant absences from the team sheet. Adelaide’s midfield looked more in control of proceedings.

Erin Healy was a mobile and menacing presence between midfield and attack, while Lucía León was a threat on the right wing up against an inexperienced Laura Pickett.

Emily Condon and Emily Hodgson almost linked up to give the Reds the lead, and Alex Chidiac hit the crossbar as the two sides traded shots, but Victory’s main attacking outlet seemed to be long passes toward Gielnik. It did not appear to the game plan. But Adelaide appeared more energetic in the head and pressed Victory’s midfield deep and quickly.

Somewhat against the run of play, Victory went into halftime a goal ahead. Alana Jancevski sent in a perfect first-time cross from the left and Gielnik added her second with a rare but perfect-headed finish.

Victory started the second team brightly but could not find a way past Matilda McNamara and Ella Tonkin. In the 71st minute they equalised. Worts scored her second after an impressive build up resulted in a goalmouth scramble.

Victory responded by emptying the bench in search of a winner. Ella O’Grady, Sofia Sakalis, Rosie Curtis, and Ava Briedis all entered the game. The last substitute would be the most fateful and decisive one.

Deep into added time, Flannery cut inside and forced Claudia Jenkins into an athletic diving parry. The Reds’ defence could not clear the ball though and when the ball fell to Briedis she took her chance.

Briedis’s shot curled under the crossbar and sent the travelling supporters into raptures. It was the 18-year-old’s first senior A-League goal and could not have arrived at a better time.

Despite the result, Adelaide fans should be encouraged by the performance. They dominated for large patches of play and the match was largely played the way Adrian Stenta would’ve wanted it to be.

Victory’s win was a result of some calm, well timed substitutions. Jeff Hopkins did not react with changes despite Adelaide frustrating the visitor’s lauded midfield trio. The changes were made later, and caused maximum impact.

Both sides could expect better performances when injured or missing players return, but there was plenty to like for both sets of fans.

Next up. Victory take on Melbourne City, while Adelaide travel to play Western Sydney Wanderers.

Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED: Jenkins, E. Hodgson, Tonkin, McNamara, Tolland, Leon, Morgan, Dewey, Healy, Worts, Condon. Substitutes: Mullan, Grigg, Karambassis, Grove, Middleton.

Scorers: Worts 6’, 71’.

MELBOURNE VICTORY: Newbon, D’appolonia, Bunge, Morrison, Pickett, Murphy, Lowe, Chidiac, Flannery, Jancevski, Gielnik. Substitutes: Candy, Curtis, Briedis, O’Grady, Sakalis.

Scorers: Gielnik 4’, 71’. Briedis 90+2’.

Referee: Kelly Jones

Attendance: 1,022

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Five star City punish Perth

Melbourne City 5-2 Perth Glory

Report by Ben Gilby, EXCLUSIVE photography from Tilly McDonald at ctrl:cyber Pitch (3/11/24)

Above: Melbourne City’s Bryleeh Henry (22) gets up highest in the box today against Perth Glory. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

Defending Premiers Melbourne City came from 2-0 down, with four goals in a 20 minute second-half spell to send Perth Glory’s talented youngsters to defeat today at ctrl:cyber Pitch.

Both teams went into the season opener with new head coaches, a stack of new players, and some injury concerns. City boss Michael Matricciani was without inspirational captain Rebekah Stott as well as Shelby McMahon. Four players – Alexia Apostolakis, Malena Mieres, Mariana Speckmaier, and Lourdes Bosch made their league debuts for the Sky Blues.

Above: Lourdes Bosch (Sky Blue) takes on Georgia Cassidy (purple left) and Izzy Dalton. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

Perth head coach Stephen Peters’ starting line-up showed only four names who were at the club last season, an exceptionally young back line, and five locally produced players. The Western Australians were missing playmaker Susan Phonsongkham to long-term injury, as well as co-captain Onyi Zogg and Megan Wynne.

City, as is their style, dominated possession, and crafted the game’s first opportunity when former Perth player Leticia McKenna hit a shot wide of the post.

However, having possession is one thing, translating it to the scoreboard is another, and it was Perth who hit the front seven minutes in. Grace Johnston received possession from her own half and attacked along the left. Motoring forward, she laid a pass off to Kelli Brown inside her. Brown took two touches to steady herself and let fly from around 30 yards, left of centre to hit a shot that flew over Mieres’ dispairing glove and in.

Above: Perth Glory celebrate Kelli Brown’s opening goal today. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

City continued to have more of the ball, and it was again Leticia McKenna who had a chance when she pounced on a defensive error, but saw her shot go over the top.

Much of the home side’s joy in attack was coming along the left-hand flank with Bosch and Rhianna Pollicina looking to wreak havoc, but Perth’s young defence, featuring former City star Naomi Chinnama, held firm.

Above: Former Melbourne City player Naomi Chinnama on debut for Perth Glory today. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

Things got better still for the Western Australians early in the second half. Five minutes in, Karly Røstbakken’s attempted crossfield pass to Apostolakis along the back line was snaffled up by Miku Sunaga who hit a first-time high shot that was caught viciously by the wind and flew into the left-hand corner of the net.

However, just two minutes later, the defending Premiers hit back. Leticia McKenna’s low shot from just over 20 yards, right of centre, bounced right in front of Glory keeper Miranda Templeman who could only push the ball into the feet of the onrushing Pollicina to sweep home from close range.

City continued to push, and levelled the scores with just under half an hour remaining. Just on as a substitute, Tyla-Jay Vlajnic sent a corner curling in from the right which caused chaos at the back post. Chinnama initially cleared the ball from the line, but Kathryn Harvey turned it in from close range.

Above: Kathryn Harvey scores City’s equaliser from close range today. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

Two minutes later, a moment of sheer class from Pollicina led to the hosts taking the lead. Taking up possession outside the box, she turned one would-be tackler and then sent a magnificent shot curling into the top right-hand corner of the net.

The impressive Bosch created City’s fourth when she attacked along the left, cut in, and danced her way past Tijan McKenna and Cassidy before hitting a shot that deflected off of Chinnama into the path of Harvey who turned and shot just outside the six-yard box, right of centre past Templeman.

Above: Rhianna Pollicina (Sky blue, right) – two goals today. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

A flowing move deep into stoppage time at the end of the game saw the final goal of the afternoon. Apostolakis on the right fed Lauren Hughes inside her who played a pass to Harvey with possession then finding its way to Pollicina on the right-hand flank. Her teasing low cross was met by a low volley at the near post by Hughes who had got in front of her defender.

This was a demonstration by Melbourne City that, whilst they may be under new management, they still have the tactical nous and skill to win football matches with something to spare.

Whilst Perth Glory may have copped a beating, they showed a number of positives. This is a new squad, still missing key players, who are extremely young – but they have no end of skill and potential among them. Stephen Peters will take a lot from this game, and his players will learn from it.

More of Tilly McDonald’s images from ctrl:cyber Pitch today:

Teams: MELBOURNE CITY (4-4-2): Mieres, Røstbakken, Otto, Apostolakis, Henry, Hughes, Davidson, Bosch, Speckmaier, L. McKenna, Pollicina. Substitutes: Accardo, Barbieri (GK), Harvey, Meyers, Vlajnic.

Scorers: Pollicina 53′, 69′. Harvey 63′, 73′. Hughes 90+5′.

PERTH GLORY (4-2-3-1): Templeman, Johnston, Tathem, Chinnama-Thomas, T. McKenna, Cassidy, Dalton, Sunaga, Hollar, Lala, Brown. Substitutes: Anderson, Skinner (GK), Brooking, O’Donoghue, Roberts.

Scorers: Brown 7′, Sunaga 51′.

Referee: Rebecca Durcau.

Attendance: 582.

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Marvellous Markovski’s brace spearheads Canberra to opening win

Canberra United 3-2 Brisbane Roar

by Joe Rosedon (2/11/24)

Above: Maja Markovski (far left) celebrates as Canberra United record an impressive opening round win today. Photo: Canberra United.

Canberra United claimed victory against Brisbane Roar in a thrilling season opener. A brace from new signing Maja Markovski, who carried on her superb NPLW Victoria form, and a sensational volley from Mary Stanic-Floody gave the home team enough to win despite spirited comebacks from Brisbane.

Despite the Roar’s bright start, it was the home side who opened the scoring and with devastating efficacy to boot. The move started at the feet of Sally James and was concluded when Emma Robers’ lifted through ball found Michelle Heyman’s run in behind. Her effort was parried by Olivia Sekany into the path of an onrushing Markovski to tap into a virtually empty net.

The visitors really should have equalised when Hayley Taylor Young’s poor first touch was pounced upon by Tamar Levin. James stood tall in the Canberra goal and was able to deny Levin from close range.

The Roar were duly punished for the miss. Markovski’s deft touch directed the ball towards Tegan Bertolissio. The fullback took the aerial route, with the intention of finding Heyman. Leia Varley won the dual against the Canberra captain but could only direct her clearance towards Stanic-Floody who thumped the ball home on the volley to double the home side’s advantage.

In response, Brisbane were wasteful in front of goal again. Sharn Freier was somehow unable to turn the ball home when Sally James tipped a cross from Deborah Anne de la Harpe directly into her path. The Matilda could not direct her header goalward.

Brisbane needed a goal soon after the restart if they stood any chance of getting a result. They were able to do just that. A brilliant switch of play from Tameka Yallop found her Matildas’ teammate Freier unmarked. Freier drove to the by-line, evaded Taylor-Young and cut the ball back for Evdokiya Popadinova to score on her Brisbane debut.

Canberra were able to restore their two goal cushion only five minutes later and Stanic- Floody and Markovski were involved once again. After multiple long balls into Brisbane’s penalty area, Stanic-Floody was eventually able to direct the ball into the path of Markoski. She did not make the cleanest contact with the ball and was aided by a deflection; but it was enough to beat Sekany.

As expected, Brisbane ramped up the pressure for the remainder of the game looking to salvage anything. They did manage to pull a goal back in the dying stages of the game. Deborah-Ann de la Harpe’s deflected free-kick gave the visitors a glimmer of hope, but Canberra stayed resolute to claim all three points.

Teams: CANBERRA UNITED (3-4-2-1): James, McKenzine, Taylor-Young, Bertolissio, Stanic-Floody, Robers, Christopherson, Malone, Markovski, Keane, Heyman. Substitutes: Majstorovic, Murray, Dos Santos, Nathan, Bowman.

Scorers: Markovski 15’, 56’. Stanic-Floody 31’.

BRISBANE ROAR (4-1-4-1): Sekany, Varley, de la Harpe, McQueen, Blissett, Hayahsi, Freier, Levin, Yallop, Woods, Popadinova. Substitutes: Kruger, Kuilamu, Hoyos, Pringle, Gibson.

Scorers: Popadiynova 50’, de la Harpe 89’.

Referee: Rachael Mitchenson.

Attendance: 1,180.

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Mariners begin season by defeating the champions

Central Coast Mariners 3-1 Sydney FC

by Isabelle Campbell (2/11/24)

Above: Celebration time for the Mariners today. Photo: Ninja A-League.

In an exciting season opener at Industree Group Stadium, Central Coast Mariners showcased their dominance with a 3-1 victory against Sydney FC. Despite an even share of the possession, the Mariners were the team to effectively capitalise on their opportunities, while Sydney struggled to convert their chances.

The first game of the season for the two sides taking place at Industree Group Stadium was not an easy one to predict. With both teams having a nearly even number of head to head wins, this promised to be another closely contested encounter.

Faye Bryson and Taylor Ray added a level of drama to the game having essentially swapped teams following last season, each able to bring unique insights from their former side into the game.

After heartbreakingly tearing her ACL in the opening game of last season, Nat Tobin made an inspiring return to the pitch, stepping back into action for the first time since her season ending injury.

In the first half, Central Coast Mariners held most of the possession, controlling the tempo of the game and consistently pushing forward in search of an opening goal. 

Despite their strong presence in midfield and a number of promising opportunities, both teams struggled to convert their chances into goals. The Mariners’ inability to find the back of the net was matched by the opposition as both sides searched for a crucial breakthrough.

In the 25th minute Sydney FC’s Mackenzie Hawkesby managed to place the ball in the net however moments later it was ruled offside.

The Mariners were awarded a penalty following a handball in the box by Millie Farrow. The penalty was comfortably converted into the first goal of the game by Jade Pennock, sending the ball flying past the presence of Sydney goalkeeper Brianna Edwards.

Going in at half-time the stats were all but equal with possession split essentially 50/50 as well as an even 3 shots on target for each of the sides.

Bianca Galic was subbed on for the Mariners at the beginning of the second half, replacing Shadeene Evans. This substitution later proved to make a positive impact on the game.

In the beginning minutes of the second half Sydney began to look like more of a threat as they began to hold the majority of the possession and take their chances on goal.

This boost for Sydney didn’t last long though as Mariners made it 2-0 with a strong and direct goal from 22-year-old Isabel Gomez to strengthen their lead.

Making an influential sub, Sydney brought on Princess Ibini in place of new signing Millie Farrow and just 10 minutes later she gave her side their opening goal.

In the dying minutes of the game, Bianca Galic closed the scoring and sealed her team the victory. 

Though the stats show a relatively even matchup, it was the Central Coast Mariners who were able to pull through for a win at their home grounds in round one of the season.

Sydney FC will be looking to collect their first point next weekend when they face off against Brisbane Roar, meanwhile The Mariners will be hoping to claim a second win as they come head to head with Western United.

Teams: CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-3-3): Langman, Riley, Irwin, Nash, Martin, Gomez, Pennock, Ray, Nunn, Trimis, Evans. Substitutes: Morrissey, Galic, Rasmussen, Quilligan, Puxty

Scorers: Pennock (Pen) 41’, Gomez 62’, Galic 87’.

SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Edwards, Tumeth, Tobin, Thompson, Bryson, Hollman, Lowry, Hawkesby, Connors, Farrow, Dos Santos. Substitutes: Franco, Chauvet, Ibini, Tallon-Henniker, Caspers

Goals: Ibini 83’.

Referee: Casey Reibelt

Attendance: 3,000.

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Four goals in 23 minutes sees Phoenix blown away by rampant Western United

Western United 4-2 Wellington Phoenix

by Emma Burke (1/11/24)

Above: Celebration time for Western United earlier today. Photo: A-Leagues.

The A-League Women’s 2024/25 season has opened with a bang after Western United defeated Wellington Phoenix 4-2 at Ironbark Fields.

It was a five-goal flurry in the first half, with the visiting Wellington Phoenix starting off the goal fest. A cross came in low and hard from Alyssa Whinham into the path of what looked like Mebae Tanaka to score on her debut, but the goal was later ruled an own goal for Sasha Grove who’s clearance sent the ball into the top of the net.

Western United took less than two minutes to respond, from the reset in play, Captain Chloe Logarzo was played into the box with a long ball over her head, however, her shot was deflected by Portuguese keeper Carolina Vilao. Thankfully for the Matilda, the deflection fell right back into her path. Her second shot was tucked under a diving Vilao and into the back of the net.

Western found a second goal through Aimee Medwin only two minutes after equalising. Kahli Johnson broke away due to an advantage played and put through an impressive cutback that found Medwin in the box completely unmarked amongst a sea of yellow shirts. 

The next goal came from Johnson, who found herself on the end of a well-timed and even better-paced cross from Catherine Zimmerman. Johnson’s first time hit on the ball went up and into the goal off the underside of the bar.

United scored their last goal of the game in the 40th minute after a mix-up in the Wellington Phoenix defence. Logarzo’s initial shot was deflected up into the air and came down on keeper Vilao who fumbled the ball when her own teammate Tiana Jaber got in her way while trying to head the ball away herself.

While the ball fell to the ground and Vilao threw herself after it, Logarzo came crashing in to put it over the line. However, Logarzo didn’t end up coming away with the last touch, as her touch seemed to be again deflected by Vilao, only for a waiting Zimmerman to put the ball over the line and it be awarded as a goal to Western United.

The second half saw Wellington try to play themselves back into the game. They came up with a few opportunities at goal, one particularly good one from Whinham, but her shot went straight into the keeper’s hands.

Some relief came to the visitors late in the game when they were awarded a penalty after substitute Lara Wall was taken down in the box by Grove.

Emma Main took the spot kick and sent United keeper Alyssa Dall’Oste diving to the left while Main’s shot went right down the middle and struck the underside of the bar.

The Phoenix, who had maintained most of the possession in the second half, were unable to find a third goal, despite a string of corner plays, leaving Western United comfortably, the hometown winners.

Western United will look to continue their winning form at home when they host the Central Coast Mariners at Ironbark Fields in round two, while Wellington Phoenix will be after their first points of the season when they host Canberra United at home at Porirua Park.

Don’t miss Adrian Geremia’s photo gallery from the game for Impetus now on our Insta page (@ImpetusFootball).

Teams: WESTERN UNITED (4-4-2): Dall’Oste, Grove, Cerne, Dehakiz, Maher, Hieda, Roach, Logarzo, Zimmerman, Medwin, Johnson Substitutes: Ibarguen, Prakash, M. Taranto, Sardo

Scorers: Logarzo 17’, Medwin 19’, Johnson 39’, Zimmerman 40’.

WELLINGTON PHOENIX (3-5-2): Vilao, Barry, Lake, Jaber, Elliot, McCutcheon, Whinham, Longo, Tanaka, Jale, Main Substitutes: McMeeken, Brazendale, Ingham, Wall.

Scorers: Grove (OG) 15′, Main 82’ (pen).

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello.

Attendance: 807.

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