Arnold makes the difference in tight tussle with Switzerland

Switzerland 1-1 Australia

By Kieran Yap 26/10/24

Above: Mackenzie Arnold grabs the ball against Switzerland. Photo: Football Australia, Marcio Machado.

A Caitlin Foord penalty and a strong performance from Mackenzie Arnold saw Australia draw 1-1 with Switzerland, but some long standing questions still remain without obvious answers.

In Tom Sermanni’s first game back in charge of The Matildas, the team set out with a more pragmatic approach than has been used in friendlies in recent years. The side had more focus on defence, and counterattack, with captain Ellie Carpenter rarely running into the final third, and Caitlin Foord looking for the quick release as the lone striker.

Switzerland had the best of the early opportunities. Viola Calligaris and Smilla Vallatto were both denied by Arnold with close range saves that bordered on the miraculous, and when Australia took the lead, it was almost against the run of play.

Carpenter’s long curling pass sent Foord through behind the Swiss defence and she raced towards goal. Her last touch took her around Elvira Herzog, but the Switzerland goalkeeper fouled her as the passed and Foord picked herself up to score from the spot.

The lead would last until the 58th minute when Geraldine Reuteler capitalized on a poor defensive clearance to bounce the ball beyond Arnold. It took a lucky deflection, but a goal was no less than the hosts deserved after creating the better chances.

Australia turned to the bench in an effort to regain control of the match. Of the substitutes used, the most notable was Daniela Galic. The 18 year old made her debut in the senior side as cap number 299 for The Matildas. The most impactful was Clare Wheeler.

The Everton midfielder was immediately busy. She was mobile without the ball and proactive with it. Most of Wheeler’s passes went forward and she was constantly darting into pockets of space between the Swiss lines. Galic was not anonymous in her first cap, and immediately looked to involve herself. The Fc Twente midfielder showed no signs of stage fright, and more opportunities could see her really flourish at this level.

Sharn Freier was effective on the left after coming on for Kaitlyn Torpey. In the absence of Cortnee Vine and Hayley Raso, Freier was the only pure winger in the squad. She used her pace to run at the Swiss defenders at every opportunity and although her end product remains a work in progress, she is another recent cap that can make an impact in the Green and Gold.

Although the match ended in a disappointing stalemate, there were good signs. Arnold looks back to her best, Clare Hunt was canny and sturdy in defence, and Carpenter was excellent in a very defensive role.

The negatives, aside from the understandable rustiness are mostly questions without immediate answers.

Should Australia try to incorporate Wheeler into the lineup from the start?

Where is Mary Fowler’s best position? (Hint, whatever it is, its one closer to goal than in this match.)

Does the style and gameplay change too drastically without Steph Catley on the pitch?

It is early days in the new cycle, and Australia are traditionally rusty in the first game of an international window. But the tests do not come any easier, they face a free-scoring Germany on Tuesday morning and every player and coach will be looking for an improvement on their last meeting at the Paris Olympics.

Lineups:

Switzerland: Herzog, Maritz, Buhler,  Calligaris, Luet, Riesen, Valotto, Walti, Reuteler, Bachmann, Crnogorcevic. Substitutes: Baumann, Schertenleib, Mauron, Beney, Lehmann, Bohi, Stierli, Marti, Sow, Peng, Andrade, Terchoun.

Scorer: Reuteler 58’

Australia: Arnold, Nevin, Kennedy, Hunt, Carpenter, Fowler, Gorry, Cooney-Cross, Yallop, Foord, Torpey. Substitutes: Wheeler, Catley, van Egmond, Freier, Galic, Heyman, Heatley, Polkinghorne, Whyman, Grant, Lincoln.

Scorer: Foord 43’

Attendance: 14,370.

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Germany Triumph in Seven-Goal Thriller Over England

England 3-4 Germany

by Ruby Vince (25/10/24)

Above: The Lionesses thank the fans after their defeat. Photo: Lionesses on X

Germany’s Giulia Gwinn struck twice in a breathless first half as Germany held off a late England resurgence at Wembley.

The visitors narrowly claimed victory in a dramatic 4-3 encounter against England at Wembley. A flurry of early goals and a resilient defence helped Germany edge England in a match that showcased the tactical depth and determination of both teams. Ultimately, Germany’s early advantage and decisive finishing proved too much for England to overcome.

Why were Germany so successful?

Germany came out strong, putting England under intense pressure from the start. Within the first two minutes, Germany struck with Gwinn’s penalty, setting England back on their heels. Just eight minutes later, a second goal further deflated England, giving Germany a commanding lead that dictated the pace of the game. By pressing high and fast, Germany’s attackers forced England’s defence into quick decisions, often creating gaps that allowed players like Bühl and Gwinn to slip through with ease. Their high press was relentless, constantly closing down England’s passing lanes and forcing mistakes.

Germany’s compact midfield also played a crucial role, especially in blocking England’s attempts to play through the middle. This forced England to rely more on the wings, which proved challenging given Germany’s disciplined defensive setup. Even after conceding three goals, Germany’s defence maintained its shape, managing to handle England’s aerial threats and set pieces effectively. Ann-Katrin Berger’s strong performance in goal, along with the backline’s timely tackles and clearances, kept the Lionesses’ at bay, especially as the pressure ramped up in the second half.

Impact of Stanway and Gwinn

Stanway was pivotal for England’s attacking game, often driving forward and keeping Germany’s defenders on high alert. She was key in turning England’s momentum, especially with her two goals that came in quick succession. Her goal from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute, followed by another just two minutes later, temporarily shifted the momentum back to England, keeping their hopes alive. Stanway frequently found gaps in Germany’s high defensive line, using her speed and awareness to exploit any hesitation. Her powerful shots tested Berger and highlighted her ability to challenge even a solid German defence.

On Germany’s side, Gwinn was a standout, marking her influence early with two quick goals that set the pace of the match. Her first goal set the tone, and her second showcased her precision and positioning. Beyond her finishing ability, Gwinn’s role extended to linking up plays from midfield and consistently applying pressure on England’s backline. Gwinn’s relentless energy and clinical finishing made her a constant threat, one that England’s defence struggled to manage throughout the game.

Above: Georgia Stanway keen for a quick restart after her second goal. Photo: Lionesses on X

What Could England Have Done?

England’s defence struggled to handle Germany’s fast, aggressive start, leaving gaps that players like Gwinn and Bühl quickly exploited. A more compact defensive setup could have limited Germany’s space, especially in the first half, as Germany’s high press kept England in catch-up mode. Adjusting sooner to Germany’s tempo might have helped England find their feet.

In attack, England showed promise with quick transitions and set-piece opportunities, but Germany’s compact defence often neutralised their efforts. Playing wider and moving the ball faster could have forced Germany to spread out, creating openings for England’s midfield. 

Ultimately, while England’s persistence brought them close to a comeback, Germany’s well-executed high-press tactics and their ability to control the game’s tempo proved decisive. Germany’s early lead and consistent disruption of England’s play allowed them to maintain control, edging out a thrilling contest that saw both teams showcase their strengths. 

Teams: ENGLAND (4-3-3): Hampton, Bronze, Bright, Williamson, Carter, Stanway, Toone, Walsh, Mead, Russo, Hemp. Substitutes: Beever-Jones, Clinton, Earps, Greenwood, Kelly, Le Tissier, Moorhouse, Morgan, Naz, Park, Parker.

Scorers: Stanway 33′ pen, 36’, Bronze 81’. 

GERMANY (4-2-3-1): Berger, Linder, Minge, Doorson, Gwinn, Senß, Dallmann, Bühl, Nüsken, Brand, Hoffmann. Substitutes: Anymoi, Cerci, Däbritz, Endemann, Grâwe, Johannes, Kleinherne, Lohmann, Rauch, Winkler, Wolter

Scorers: Gwinn 4′ pen, 11’, Bühl 29’, Däbritz 72′. 

Referee: Marta Huerta De Aza.

Attendance: 47,967.

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Sarina Wiegman: “They are headaches I want to have”

By Emily Wyatt (24/10/24)

Above: Sarina Wiegman at the matchday –1 press conference at St Georges Park, Photo: Madeline Blount, Impetus Football.

Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman and England captain Leah Williamson both expressed their expectations regarding their upcoming friendlies against Germany and South Africa within the next week. Wiegman believes it will be “really good for the team to get that experience at the highest level.” The boss also confirmed Fran Kirby and Lotte Wubben-Moy are ruled out of the German friendly at Wembley Stadium.

After being asked why the friendlies against Germany and South Africa were decided, Wiegman confidently stated her reasons within the press conference. She understands that both teams are “totally different at the high level” which will give the Lionesses a more effective test. Ultimately, she fully understands the level and standard in which the German national team play, which will be a good test for the Lionesses. Additionally, she stated that she wanted the team to play against South Africa as they “always play a little different with their style and have a different identity which we want to play against too”.

Overall, she knows that her team as a whole “know where they want to get to in July”. Wiegman also discussed the “headache” that she currently has, based around the team selection.

It is well known to WSL fans that Alessia Russo and Beth Mead have not had the strongest start to the season both playing for Arsenal, which could potentially take a toll on their chances of being first pick for the starting lineups when it comes to international football. Striker, Russo, has not scored one goal so far in this WSL season while her teammate Mead has only secured one goal within her five appearances for her club.

Although, it is not only her forwards which the boss has had a “headache” over but also her midfielders. Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway have been regular starters in the middle for England over the last few years, but now with the outstanding running form of Grace Clinton since returning to Manchester United and Jess Park at Manchester City, more competition could be waiting when fighting for that starting spot within the vastly talented squad.

However, Wiegman positively states that it is a “headache that she wants to have” as it will ultimately give her more options throughout the selection of her team.

Above: Lionesses in training at SGP before their game at Wembley against Germany. Photo: Madeline Blount, Impetus Football.

Not only was the discussion on potential changes within the squad popular, but there was also a lot of focus on the currently injured players within the squad and how that could possibly affect the team in the upcoming fixtures.  

Lauren James, who withdrew from this month’s camp, due to a calf injury is expected to miss out on the Lionesses’ November camp too, because of the extent of her injury. Sarina described James as a “very talented player” and reassured everyone that “as soon as she gets fit, and she gets at her level as well as the playing minutes, then she begins to show quality and from there we will see how the competition is”. Weigman has made it very clear that no player gets a free pass into her squad because of how high the competition for every single position is and James is no exception.

As for Fran Kirby and Lotte Wubben-Moy, they will be remaining in camp to take part in individual training and recovery to treat their current injuries. The forward and defender will be undoubtedly ruled out for the clash against Germany however, they are hoping to be ready for the team’s game against South Africa on Tuesday.

Overall, Weigman stated that her team as a whole “know where they want to get to in July” which makes their upcoming preparations vital on the road to the Euros next year.

Ellie Carpenter on the Matildas clean slate: “I think this is what we’ve needed”

by Isabelle Campbell (24/10/2024)

Above: Ellie Carpenter (right) in action for Australia. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Matildas vice captain Ellie Carpenter believes that the cycle ahead for the team with a new coaching set up is something that offers a chance for renewal and to refresh.

Whilst Hayley Raso’s late withdrawal due to injury is a blow, the Olympique Lyonnais star sees the positives it brings after Sarah Hunter received a late call to replace her.

“Unfortunately she’s (Raso) not here due to her hamstring injury but you know that gives a chance for another player to step up in that position.”

Hunter signed a three year contract with her French club Paris FC last year. Having been in the same league for four years herself with Lyon, Carpenter outlined the positives that Hunter will bring to the national team.

“I think for her obviously being young, I think being exposed to a team like that, a high level team, she’s training with great players everyday and technically she’s going to improve.

“Even seeing her in training yesterday compared to a camp last year, she’s improved so much and I think that just shows, being over in Europe at one of the best clubs is really great for her.

“Now she can come into this environment and show what she’s about…That’s a great thing about the national team, when players can work at their clubs and come back in and show their level.”

With the upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Germany being the first games to be played under interim head coach Tom Sermanni, we could well see a new style of play for the Matildas as they try to rediscover their momentum that was lost during the Olympics.

“It obviously depends what formation we do play but there is a lot of people that can step up, put their hand up and perform under Tommy (Sermanni) here and kind of show what they can offer.”

The opportunity presented in having an interim coach, though one with such a deep history with the Matildas and many players still in the squad, is the ability to experiment, try out new tactics and introduce some new faces into the squad.

“I think it’s a clean slate, it’s a new cycle and I think this is what we’ve needed”

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Euro 2025 qualifiers: Cymru prepare for face-off against Slovakia

Lois Joel training ahead Cymru vs Slovakia. Photo: Morganna King for Impetus Football

by Morganna King (23/10/24)

Preparations are in full swing ahead of Cymru Women’s Euro 2025 play-off semi-final matches against Slovakia. There are already 7,000 tickets sold ahead of their home leg at the Cardiff City Stadium, but first, an away trip to the NTC Stadium in Poprad on Friday. Cymru players Carrie Jones and Lois Joel were present to speak to the media yesterday at the Vale Resort in Hensol.

On the possibility of making history:

Carrie Jones- Obviously, we’re all excited, there’s a lot of noise around the games but we as a team are all focusing on the first game against Slovakia.

Lois Joel- We obviously have our goals but we’re just going to focus on one game at a time. Slovakia is completely our focus and that’s what this camp is about. We’ll be looking to get the results this round before we look at heading back.

On Slovakia:

Carrie Jones- We know they’re a tough team to come against and you know, we’ve done a lot of analysis and like I said we’re just going to keep our feet on the ground. We’ve got to stay present, take each day as it comes, train hard and then at the day it comes to play the game we know what our role is. We know that they’re a really tough team and we know what we’ve got to do to execute the game plan.

On the absence of their teammate:

Carrie Jones- Soph (Sophie Ingle) is a huge loss, not just on the pitch but as a character as well so we all wish her the best with her recovery.

Lois Joel- The girls are gutted for Soph, we want to do as well as we can for her now as well. The good thing about our team is we have depth and other players that can come in and do a job. So yeah, it will be exciting for those players, whoever gets the opportunities to show what they’re about.

On the new captain:

Carrie Jones- Haz (Angharad James) has been there for me since my first camp. She’s a great person and you know I’m really glad that she has the armband, and I know that she’s a perfect fit and I know she’ll do great for the team.

Lois Joel- It’s great news we love Haz, we respect her as a leader. She’s been around the setup for a long time, she knows what it takes, and anyone can go up to her and talk to her so we’re all very happy for her and I’m sure she’s delighted as well.

On personal and team goals:

Lois Joel- Me personally I’m just trying to build on my role, grow it as much as possible. If I do get minutes or when I get minutes, making advantage of that and helping the team. And as a team like we said, our focus is just on the next two games and getting the results we need for this camp.

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Caitlin Foord: ‘It’s about making the most of it while we’re here”

By Isabelle Campbell 23/10/24

Above: Caitlin Foord in action for Australia earlier this year. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus

Just three weeks ago Caitlin Foord found herself in the defensive line for her club Arsenal, though not a position she finds herself in often in recent times, this was certainly not her first experience at putting in a defensive shift. 

“I obviously started off as a forward,” Foord said in today’s media conference from the Matildas base in Switzerland.

“But I got made into a fullback under Tommy (Sermanni) because that was a position that was needed within the team and he thought that I could take on that role.”

In 2011 Foord received her first call up to the Matildas by none other than Tom Sermanni, the current interim coach for the team following Tony Gustavsson’s departure. Though already an established forward, the Australia coach made the bold decision to play the 16 year old at right back at the 2011 Women’s World Cup in Germany.

“I just made it my own and stayed there for a couple of years but deep down I always was a forward and i think you could see that even when I was at right back as well.”

The star held her own even out of position and faced with the massive task of marking the formidable presence of Brazilian footballing legend Marta.

Though they were eliminated following a quarter final loss to Sweden, Foord was awarded Best Young Player for the tournament and later AFC Youth Player of the year.

“I wanted to get forward and create and be up on the, I guess I would say, more exciting end of the pitch, as every forward would say.”

Though it’s unlikely we will see our number nine playing in the backline in the Matildas upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Germany, the Arsenal star player did assure that she is willing and ready to play wherever she’s needed. 

“It was a bit weird going back there these last couple of games with Arsenal just because it had been a long time but I’ve always said wherever I’m needed on the pitch I would be willing to play but I hope to think that I’ve got my spot up front somewhere to stay there.”

Following a busy three year stretch of back-to-back international tournaments, Foord spoke on the tournament-free year the Australian squad will have in 2025.

“I mean it sounds nice although a long way away but I think because we do have the year off these friendlies are even more important to get the results and to play the way we want to play”

2025 will likely prove to be a year of strengthening and building upon what was started in the Matildas home World Cup run, with the Asian Cup set for next year, also a home-soil tournament, the matches played between now and then are of extreme importance despite not being ‘competitive’.

“These are the opportunities we have to get it right and it has to be right come the Asian Cup and that’s what we’re obviously leading into and our focus is on, but every game up until then is important.”

Having just arrived at camp in Switzerland the squad have the next few days to reintegrate back in to National Team mode and prepare for the upcoming match against the Swiss side.

“Camp comes and goes so quickly,” said Foord.

“So it’s about making the most of it while we’re here”

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‘He’s an incredible human’: Michelle Heyman reunited with her first Matildas coach .

By Kieran Yap 21/10/2024

Above: Michelle Heyman. Photo: Football Australia

In 2010 Michelle Heyman received her first call up for The Matildas. Fourteen years later, the received her most recent, from the same coach.

Interim manager Tom Sermanni’s appointment has been met with a mostly positive reception, and The A-League Women’s record goal scorer was delighted to get the call from her old mentor.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Tommy again,” Heyman told the media from camp in Switzerland.  

“He was the coach who gave me debut, so I’ve got great respect for him.

“He’s an incredible human, extremely happy all the time. He brings a really positive vibe into this environment.

“I know what his strengths are, and I’m excited to watch him bring that into our training session and allow us to grow as footballers.”

Despite being one of the most electrifying and skilful centre forwards in Australia, Heyman spent much of the last four years in the international wilderness. A recall by former manager Tony Gustavsson was instantly repaid with seven goals including a winner at the Paris Olympics against Zambia.

Ahead of their first training session under Sermanni, Heyman said it would be difficult to compare The Matildas two most successful managers.

“They’ve both got their own strengths and the one thing I’m looking for this camp is to listen, take it all on and whatever Tommy says that’s what you do… and try and be the best footballer you can so you can  win games and help your teammates out.”

Heyman’s illustriuous career has seen early success and recent adulation. She is currently Australia’s most natural and effective number nine, and says that experience has made her a more dangerous forward.

“I still remember my debut and I remember feeling like a headless chook, running out on the field and wasting all my energy on the first sprint because I was so nervous and I couldn’t believe that I was playing for my country.

“When I look back, even at my last games at the Olympics, I just feel so confident in myself and my position and I know the game so well now. I’ve got all those years of experience behind me.

“I’m a very different footballer since 2010 to where I am today and it’s only gone upwards.”

Joining Heyman in this camp is past and future teammate Chloe Lincoln. The former Canberra United goalkeeper received her first call up with the senior team. As someone who has seen her career grow from up close, Heyman is thrilled for the 19 year old custodian.

“I’m not surprised at all,” she said.

“Chloe is an exceptional goalkeeper. She is pure talent and I’ve been lucky enough to work with her to multiple years at Canberra United… to see her here, I was like a proud mum.

“She really deserves this opportunity. For herself to grow as a player, to be surrounded by Macca (Mackenzie Arnold), Teagan (Micah), Jada (Whyman), she’s only going to learn in this environment and get better.

“She’s really looking forward to this camp. I’ve told her to keep her eyes wide open, take in all the information you can get an enjoy every moment because I see her as the future goalkeeper for Australia.

“I’m just super excited for her.”

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Rytting Kaneryd Shines as Blues Overwhelm Spurs

Chelsea 5-2 Tottenham Hotspur

By Ruby Vince 20/10/24

Above: Tottenham Hotspur’s squad group together proir to Chelsea defeat. Photo: SpursWomen on X

Chelsea secured a dominant 5-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur at Kingsmeadow on October 20th, 2024, with a standout performance from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, who scored twice.

Why were Chelsea so Successful?
Chelsea’s tactical approach and relentless energy set the tone for the game from the start. Sonia Bompastor’s side pressed Tottenham high up the pitch, forcing their defenders into mistakes and making it difficult for them to build play. Chelsea targeted Tottenham’s full-backs, with Maika Hamano and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd stretching the defence by making incisive runs down the wings. The early goal from Hamano in the ninth minute put Chelsea in the driver’s seat. Shortly after, Guro Reiten’s attempt was saved, but it showed how easily Chelsea could penetrate the Spurs backline.

Although Tottenham equalized through Amanda Nilden’s effort, Chelsea didn’t panic, continuing to push forward, and their pressure soon led to an own goal that restored their lead. Chelsea’s ability to maintain a fast tempo while exploiting the spaces Tottenham left in midfield gave them the upper hand. Players like Millie Bright and Erin Cuthbert played key roles in dictating the pace, while Sandy Baltimore and Reiten constantly caused problems with their direct play. Chelsea’s defensive solidity, anchored by Bright, also ensured that Spurs struggled to get in behind.

Joanna Rytting Kaneryd’s Influence
Kaneryd was Chelsea’s most influential player, showcasing her ability to break down defences with skill, pace, and precision. From the opening whistle, she looked a constant threat, running at Tottenham’s backline and creating scoring opportunities. Tottenham’s left-back, Molly Bartrip, found it particularly hard to contain her, often getting beaten for pace and failing to close her down effectively.

Kaneryd’s first goal, in the 69th minute, came from clever positioning. As Tottenham’s defence left her unmarked in a dangerous area, she latched onto a pass before finishing with composure. She then completed her brace in stoppage time, with a solo run that saw her dribble past multiple defenders and fire high into the roof of the net. Kaneryd’s intelligence and quick feet made her unstoppable, and her presence gave Chelsea the cutting edge needed to turn dominance into goals.

Above: Sandy Baltimore celebrates her goal against Spurs. Photo: ChelseaFCW on X

What could Tottenham have done?
A more compact shape in defence could have helped Spurs deal with the relentless wide attacks from Kaneryd and Hamano. Their decision to play a higher line left them vulnerable to the pace of Chelsea’s wingers, which allowed Chelsea to exploit the space behind Tottenham’s full-backs. Tottenham could have provided more support for Bartrip, who struggled in one-on-one duels against Kaneryd- deploying an additional defensive midfielder to help cover the wide areas might have helped nullify Chelsea’s threats down the flanks. Additionally, Spurs needed to close down Chelsea’s midfielders quicker to disrupt their passing rhythm and reduce the service to the dangerous wide players.

Offensively, Tottenham showed glimpses of quality, but they were often forced to play on the counterattack due to Chelsea’s control of the midfield. The introduction of Martha Thomas and Lena Gunning-Williams brought some fresh legs in the second half, but Tottenham failed to sustain their attacking momentum. If Spurs had been more aggressive in closing down Chelsea’s midfield and applied more pressure higher up the pitch, they might have limited Chelsea’s ability to control possession and dictate the game.

Chelsea’s victory over Tottenham was a statement of their tactical prowess and depth in quality. With Kaneryd leading the charge, Chelsea exploited Tottenham’s defensive frailties and produced a clinical display of finishing. Despite Tottenham’s best efforts, they were ultimately outclassed by a Chelsea side determined to assert their dominance in the league. Spurs will need to address their defensive issues and find a way to disrupt teams like Chelsea if they are to challenge for higher positions this season.

Teams: CHELSEA (4-2-3-1): Hampton, Baltimore, Bright (c), Buchanan, Bronze, Cuthbert, Nüsken, Reiten, Hamano, Kaneryd, Ramírez. Substitutes used: Beever-Jones, Alejandra Bernabé, Jean-François, Kaptein, Lawrence, Mpome

Scorers: Hamano 10’, OG 44’, Kaneryd 70’, 90+1’, Baltimore 74’

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (4-2-3-1): Spencer, Nildén, Hunt, Bartrip, Neville, Summanen, Ahtinen, Vinberg, Spence, Naz, England (c). Substitutes used: Gunning-Williams, Morris, Thomas

Scorers: Nilden 21’, Summanen 84’

Referee: Emily Heaslip

Jagarinec reflects on Canberra United’s warmup against the All-Stars

By Ryan Miller-Woods 17/10/24

Above: Canberra United’s Antoni Jagarinec

Off the back of a  6-0 win against the NPLW All-Stars, Canberra United Head Coach Antoni Jagarinec  will have some idea of what his best team will look like.

With Round One only weeks away Jagarinec was asked what he took away from the warm up  match.

“It was a really good game against a really good opposition. We (as a team) learnt a lot about ourselves both with the ball and without the ball last week.

“So it was a really good building block for where we are in pre-season.”

Despite the result, a few All Stars caught his eye.

“Absolutely! There were a few (from the match) that are coming into training because of it.

“It was a good opportunity to see the local talent that we know is there against contracted A-League (Women’s) players and give them (an) opportunity to test themselves.”

Ahead of his first season in charge of United, there has been a fair bit of player turnover from last season’s squad and he has recruited a lot of new players for the 2024/25 season.

Jagarinec has  now had some time to see what his team looks like on the pitch in a match and will most importantly start to form an idea of what his Match Day squad will look like for Canberra’s opening round against Brisbane Roar.

When asked whether he’s happy with where the team is at currently, Jagarinec was delighted.

“Absolutely! It was nerve-wracking bringing in a new roster,  I think 50% of the squad is entirely brand new to Canberra (United). After a week we (as a group) were comfortable and two weeks in, we’re extremely confident. So (I’m) happy with our foundations, we’re growing every week but definitely not starting from zero which we’re really happy with (our) off-season recruiting.”

One of Canberra’s players to have returned from last season is midfielder Mary Stanic-Floody who will be looking to build on her  16 appearances and two goals.

Stanic-Floody has a lot of players around her with  A-League Women’s experience that will help her game to the next level and further her development as a footballer.

When asked about how much she learnt last season, Stanic Floody said,

“Ant is incredible, I always learn from him.

“I learnt so much off Michelle Heyman, she is such a role model and to play against someone you idolise is such an honour. So I’ll always continue to learn, you never stop learning.”

“It’s so exciting to see where we (as a team) can be. Of course, it was good (against the NPLW All-Stars) but it’s not great, we’ve still got so far to go (ahead of Round One) but it’s exciting.”

Markovski and McKenzie reflect as Canberra ramp up preparations

Above: New signing Maja Markovski goes over her dream start with Canberra. Image: Canberra United.

By Ryan Miller-Woods (10/16/24).

With the season just over two weeks away, Canberra United had a chance to test out their tactics and squad against the NPLW Capital Football All-Stars. 

For her first proper hit out with Canberra United, you really couldn’t have asked for much better from new recruit Markovski, who played a pivotal role alongside club legend Michelle Heyman in attack, scoring a brace and playing the entire match. 

It’s hard to believe that Markovski didn’t play in the A-League Women last season, but she’s back in the league after a great NPLW Victoria season with Bulleen Lions where she won the 2024 NPLW Gold Medal and the NPLW Victoria Golden Boot with 20 goals.

Markovski sees the move to the capital city as a great chance to learn even more about the craft of the attacker from one of the masters – Michelle Heyman.

“I think learning off players like Michelle will be amazing, especially because I’m a striker as well. Just (to) gain as much experience as possible from those players and hopefully, we can have a good season together.” 

Reflecting on what she’s picked up from Heyman already, Markovski said: “When you’ve got someone of her quality in the box, you don’t have to do much, you’ve just got to put it in the right places and she’ll do the rest.” 

In terms of what her new coach Jagarinec wants to see from her this season, the newly arrived attacker hinted at a positional change.

“It’s been kind of a bit different for me this year, I’ve predominantly played in the middle as a striker but obviously Michelle’s around. So, he wants to see me be a wide player or just in behind as a 10 for her.” 

Above: Alex McKenzie speaking to the press. Image: Canberra United.


Alex McKenzie is going into her second season with Canberra United and was realistic about what is ahead.

“…There’s a lot to be done, we’ve got a lot of work to do. I think it would be naïve to think we don’t, but super exciting and seeing the turnout, it’s really promising.” 

There will be a major focus on Canberra’s defence for this season, and McKenzie emphasised what the club’s new head coach wants to see in terms of improvements this time round: said, “I think he’s invested a lot of time and resources in our staffing team to work out where we can improve in terms of specifics and then just working collectively to ensure that we’re ‘safe as houses.’” 

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