Photo: Alessia Russo speaking to the press Credit: Aimee Reynolds for Impetus.
by Freya Ward at St. George’s Park for Impetus with exclusive photography from Aimee Reynolds (10/7/24).
England are preparing to face Ireland and Sweden in the final two games of their UEFA EURO qualifying group stage. Alessia Russo described the upcoming fixtures as “two massive games.”
The squad must bring their A-game to secure automatic qualification, which the team has made clear they are striving for, Russo touched on the extremely “high standards,” that the squad have for themselves and that automatic qualification is “ultimately the goal.”
The media were able to get a glimpse into training, where we witnessed Anna Moorhouse’s first session with the squad, the 29-year-old Orlando Pride number one told us she was brought to tears when she received the call from Sarina Wiegman.
Moorhouse is a brilliant addition to England’s GK union, if her current domestic form is anything to go by she currently has seven clean sheets in the National Women’s Soccer League, more than any other goalkeeper in the league.
Currently, the Lionesses sit third in their group with seven points, equal with Sweden, however, its goal difference keeping them from sitting in one of the sought-after automatic qualification spots. England face the Republic of Ireland on Friday at Carrow Road, Norwich, where they will be hoping to keep Ireland’s total points at zero, to give themselves the best chance of finishing in the top two to avoid two rounds of play-offs.
Avoiding need to play competitive games during the international windows in which those play-off rounds for finishing third would involve the would allow the team more time to rest and recover, which is a huge focus for the team after a busy two years with back-to-back major tournaments.
Lionesses boss Wiegman has emphasised the importance of giving her players time to step away from the pitch, to ensure their top performance on the it, and six points out of six over the coming days would go a long way towards ensuring that could happen.
For more updates from inside of the England camp make sure that you are following Impetus on all social media platforms, where our team will be uploading a variety of exclusive content from England’s media events including an exclusive TikTok with Esme Morgan over the coming days.
In this week’s ‘WA On Wednesday’ feature, Ben Gilby speaks to UWA-Nedlands’ Emily Dinsdale about hercareer which has seen her progress from the club’s amateur team to now playing a starring role for the NPLW WA’s newest side for the 2024 season (10/7/24).
Above: Emily Dinsdale (green shirt) in action for UWA-Nedlands. Photo supplied to Impetus by: UWA-Nedlands.
Emily Dinsdale is an example of what can happen when you keep plugging away and improving your game over a number of years. In six years at UWA-Nedlands, she has moved up through the levels and is now a hugely impressive performer as captain of the club in their first-ever NPLW season.
Looking back over her time at the club, Dinsdale said: “I have quietly progressed at UWA Nedlands from the Women’s Amateurs team, then to State League, and I was very excited to take on the new challenge as captain in our first NPLW team. I’ve played with some of the girls in this team for many years now, and love the team bond and culture we have this season.”
However, the player’s footballing story goes back a lot longer than her time at UWA-Nedlands, as she takes up the story. “I started playing football 20 years ago at Wembley Downs Soccer Club, as the only girl in a team of all boys.
Above: Emily Dinsdale (green shirt) involved in an aerial challenge last season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: UWA-Nedlands.
“In the last 20 years, I haven’t gone a single year without playing soccer. I played at WDSC for 13 years, then for a year at Monash University in Melbourne, before coming to UWA-Nedlands. As a player I love to work with space down the wing, taking players on and setting up goals. I enjoy using quick footwork and speed to create scoring opportunities for the forward team. As a captain, I aim to lead by example by putting in consistent effort at training and giving 100% to every challenge in games.”
Those efforts and challenges have stepped up another notch this year as the club’s third-place finish in the 2023 State League Division One enabled them to be considered for the first-ever promotion spot into the NPLW WA. It was a place they were awarded to replace Curtin University, who finished bottom last season. Dinsdale reflected on last season which saw the club involved in a three-way battle with Hamersley United and Perth AFC for top spot.
“At the beginning of the year, we set the goals of winning the Night Series, and the State League title. To have won the Night Series after losing Grand Finals the two years prior was a huge highlight. Unfortunately with regards to the State League season, we didn’t finish up quite where we were hoping to.
“Hamersley United and Perth AFC always put up strong fights and it was great to have that challenge. We always knew coming into those games that we would be up against physically strong and experienced players. After coming up short in some of those key games last season, we’re determined to capitalise on our chances this season.
“Finding out about our promotion to the NPLW was hugely exciting, not just for our first team but also for the club as a whole. Multiple people in the club have put so much time and energy into getting us to this point, so we’re thrilled to be given this opportunity.
“It’s exciting to have a pathway for the young girls at the club to be able to strive towards a high level of performance.”
Emily Dinsdale on the impact that promotion to the NPLW WA can have on the whole club.
The higher levels of performance required meant that pre-season training and preparations were on a whole new level to what the players had previously experienced at the club. It was part of a whole culture of stepping up the challenge and expectations to give the team the best possible chance of a competitive NPL season.
“I think moving up into the NPL, and stepping in as captain this year, are definitely the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a footballer. Coming up against teams with lots of experience, as a team with only one player with NPL experience is a massive challenge.
“Pre-season training was definitely more intensive than in previous seasons. We completed trials in November, and have been training three to four days per week since then. It’s felt like a very long pre-season so there was lots of nervous energy and adrenaline coming into our first games. It was great to see so many of the same faces back from last season, and the pre-season preparation has allowed us to build some really strong relationships with our new recruits.
“I feel that the hard work we’ve done in pre-season, as well as finding our feet in Night Series, have given myself and the whole team some valuable confidence. I know we will continue to step up to the challenge this season and prove we belong in this league.”
The team have definitely stepped up to the challenge so far. They were place in a fiendishly tough NPLW Night Series group with Perth RedStar, Hyundai NTC, and Balcatta Etna to kick things off – and they held their heads high, and Dinsdale is extremely proud of her team’s pre-season run.
Above: Calm in possession – Emily Dinsdale. Photo supplied to Impetus by: UWA-Nedlands.
“We always knew our draw in the Night Series was a tough group. Our first two games against RedStar and Balcatta were a baptism of fire, however despite the losses we definitely didn’t come away from them feeling deflated. Scoring three unanswered goals in the first half of our game against NTC was a huge positive, and gave us some good confidence going forward. Obviously, it was disappointing to then come away with a draw, but I think overall we came away from the Night Series with optimism about the season ahead.”
Those three round-robin matches prepared the team for the opening rounds of the NPLW WA. The historic first game saw Hyundai NTC make the trip to the UWA Sports Park, and whilst the visitors had the lion’s share of possession and territory, Dinsdale’s side were well-organised, well disciplined, showing potential in attack and quality at the back in the shape of goalkeeper Morgan Springer.
UWA-Nedlands have continued to grow from then and have been competitive. Dinsdale and her team mates have able to pick up results against teams around them in the table to currently stand three points above bottom-side Murdoch University Melville, and have a game in hand on them.
“I feel individually, and as a team, we’re continuing to improve every week. The confidence in individuals and the link-ups between players are becoming stronger every training session and game. We’ve been gradually finding our rhythm and cohesion on the field. I think we have a good bit of momentum and confidence…and we’ll be a force not to be underestimated.
“As a team, we’re realistic about our goals, and what we want to achieve. Obviously, the main aim is to retain our spot in the NPLW, but we would ideally like to come out mid-table at the end of the season. We want to prove that although we might be coming in as under-dogs we’re not to be under-estimated, and we will put up a strong fight at this level.
“Personally, my aim is to work hard on and off the pitch, and put in 100% on game day to be a role model to the team, and young girls coming through the club. I want to build a great team and club culture that attracts and retains players.”
Dinsdale has certainly done that. A hugely consistent performer for her side leading by example, she made the shortlist for Impetus‘ NPLW WA Player of the Month awards for May. As well as being a key link-up player that drives her team forward, the UWA-Nedlands captain has been in among the goals and assists this season.
Emily Dinsdale and UWA-Nedlands have been an excellent addition to the NPLW WA this season – and they have the confidence and ability to produce the results to ensure their stay in the competition lasts beyond this year.
Above: Leading by example as UWA-Nedlands’ first NPLW WA captain. Photo supplied to Impetus by: UWA-Nedlands.
Above: Claudia Cicco in action for the Young Matildas. Image: Tiff Williams, Football Australia.
By Ryan Miller-Woods(10/7/24).
After playing an important role in Newcastle Jets’ success last season, Young Matildas defender Claudia Cicco has re-signed with the club m until the end of the 2025/26 season.
Cicco made a total of 18 appearances for the Jets last season, starting 17 times and playing a total of 1526 minutes. For her second season in the league and her first with Newcastle, Cicco was allowed her to play some of her best football.
As a reward for her consistently strong performances, the player was called up to the Young Matildas squad for the 2024 AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup in Uzbekistan in March. Cicco made three appearances and scored in Australia’s final group stage match against Chinese Taipei as the Young Matildas qualified for the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia by finishing third.
Cicco’s versatility is something that really benefits her and her team, where not only can she play in the defence but when required can also be used as a winger or as a striker.
An example of how Cicco’s speed can be impactful was during the opening match of Australia’s campaign at the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup against South Korea where her and Jets teammate Lara Gooch brought reinvigorated energy to the second half of that match.
Cicco’s new deal at the Jets will ensure that she can continue her growth alongside players such as club captain Cassidy Davis who is an excellent influence on younger players within the squad.
Speaking about her new contract, Cicco said, “I’m really excited and grateful to re-sign with the Jets again. I love Newcastle and am looking forward to the growth of the club. I can’t wait to get back into training, to improve each day under Ryan Campbell’s guidance. Newcastle has become my home away from home and I love playing for our passionate fans.”
Head Coach Ryan Campbell spoke of the importance of retaining a player of Cicco’s potential saying, “Re-signing Claudia was a key goal of mine in order to continue what we have been building from last season. Her pace and defensive ability are second to none and she is developing nicely as an attacking fullback. I am looking forward to working more with Claudia to help her continue to become an even more effective player.”
Above: Morgan Aquino, who had a sensational campaign in goal for Perth Glory in 2023/24. Photo: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory goalkeeper Morgan Aquino, one of the leading lights of the Western Australian side’s 2023/24 campaign has departed the club for a new opportunity with American side DC Power in the USL Super League.
The 22-year-old started every game last season to take her career tally of Glory appearances to 41 and in addition to being named ALW Goalkeeper of the Year, also claimed the club’s Players’ Player and Members’ Player of the Year Awards. Aquino finished in third place in Impetus‘ A-League Women Player of the Year list – and was the highest-ranked goalkeeper.
Ahead of her international move, the former Australia Under-20 international acknowledged how much her time with Glory meant to her at a personal level.
“There’s no greater honour than playing for my hometown team,” she said. “I’m super proud to be able to play in front of my family and friends each week.
“Thank you to all my teammates over the past years. You’ve inspired me to be better every day and thank you also to all the Perth Glory staff who have helped grow this club and the game.”
Above: Morgan Aquino makes a save for Perth Glory against Newcastle Jets during the 2022/23 season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Tom McCarthy.
Aquino told me last season for Perth Glory’s official website that one of the keys to her outstanding form was the fact that she was a regular starter at last. The previous two seasons had seen the shot-stopper competing with Courtney Newbon and then Sarah Langman for the number one position, and it was the “hunger and desire” to maintain her position as first choice that propelled her to new heights.
Those new heights produced some staggering statistics – 126 saves, with an 81.1% success rate.
Glory CEO Anthony Radich was full of praise for the departing goalkeeper, saying: “Morgan has served the club extremely well for a number of years, has worked tirelessly to improve her game, and thoroughly deserves this great opportunity that has presented itself in the U.S.”
Also today, Perth Glory announced their new A-League Women home stadium for 2024/25.
As expected, the club will be moving to the Sam Kerr Football Centre at Queen’s Park Open Space, in the City of Canning. The venue, used as a training base for Denmark, Canada, Panama, Haiti, and Morocco at last year’s World Cup is the State Football Centre and the Hyundai NTC side play all their home matches at the venue in the NPLW WA. A 700-seater covered stand provides accommodation for spectators.
Perth Glory had spent the previous two seasons playing at Macedonia Park, and prior to that at Dorrien Gardens.
Above: The stand at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, the new home A-League Women venue for Perth Glory. Photo: Venues West.
Above: A smiling Hayley Raso during training in Spain yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Australia have arrived at their warm-weather training camp in Marbella, Northern Spain ahead of this weekend’s pre-Olympic Friendly against Canada on Saturday.
Here is a selection of photos from yesterday’s training session, provided to Impetus by Football Australia.
Keep an eye out for Impetus‘ detailed preview articles on every one of the nations competing at the Olympics Women’s Football competition, starting on the site this Saturday.
Above: Australia’s Ellie Carpenter. Photo Kris Goman for Impetus.
Ahead of the Matildas’ final preparation game for the Olympic Games, defender Ellie Carpenter sat down with media to discuss the team’s hopes for Paris, her past Olympic appearances, the upcoming game against Canada, and being named Vice-Captain.
“Every game is a final, you have to be ready for it,” said Carpenter.
“It’s most of our third Olympics, second Olympics, so we know what it’s about. It’s a tough schedule, it’s every two days you’re backing up against top-10 teams in the world,” she continued.
“The best is going to win it, the fittest.”
The Matildas open their Olympic tournament against Germany, in Marseille, before travelling to Nice to play Zambia, then back to Marseille to play the United States, all in the span of six days.
The past two major tournaments have seen the Matildas just miss out on a podium finish, placing fourth each time.
“We all still remember that feeling of losing the medal match, losing the semi to not being in that gold-medal match. We don’t want to repeat that.”
“Coming fourth at the Olympics is honestly the worst place you would come,” said Carpenter.
At her last Olympic Games, in Tokyo, she was unable to take to the field in the third-place match, due to receiving a late red card in the semi-final loss to Sweden.
“I hope not to repeat that, I hope to play in a medal match, they’re the games you want to play in, the games you want to help your team win.”
The final stop before Paris? One last game against Canada, the current Olympic Champions, in Spain.
“It’s kind of a pre-warm up before the Olympics,” said Carpenter, “it gives a chance to give match minutes, fitness and final tune ups.”
With many players currently on their end of season breaks, the match will be an opportunity for the team to get back into gear and ready for the tournament ahead.
This time around, the games will look a little different for Carpenter, as she goes into it having been named a Vice-Captain.
“It is a very proud moment for myself, and I’m very proud to be named,” she said.
“When I got named Vice-Captain, I just kept being me, I didn’t change anything, I think that’s why I got chosen to be in that role.”
As for the tournament itself, Carpenter stressed that despite wanting to come away with a medal, there’s no expectations on the team from within the team.
“Like the World Cup, we’re going to go in there, do our best, and see what happens.”
Above: Young gun Emma Dundasshining in her debut season for the Jets. Image: A-League Women.
By Ryan Miller-Woods (9/7/24).
After having had a breakout maiden A-League Women’s campaign with Newcastle Jets which saw her voted as the club’s Young Player of the Year, 17-year-old midfielder Emma Dundas has re-signed with the Jets until the end of the 2025/2026 A-League Women’s season.
Dundas made her A-League debut in the opening round of last season in the F3 Derby against Central Coast Mariners and made a total of 22 appearances throughout the season, starting 17 matches and playing over 1400 minutes, as well as scoring her first goal in the A-League Women in the 8-0 rout of Adelaide United in Round 22.
The way Dundas set herself up and seized her moment perfectly showed that she is a player well beyond her years and one to watch for the coming season.
Internationally, Dundas was called up to the Junior Matildas for the 2024 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup in Indonesia back in May off the back of her performances in the A-League Women. She started in all three of Australia’s group matches against China, Japan, and Thailand. As well as that, she was recently called up to the Young Matildas for the two friendlies against New Zealand this month in preparation for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
The fact that Dundas has been signed for the next two seasons shows she’s very much valued by the club and this should prove to be a great piece of business by Newcastle.
Dundas is a very exciting talent with a lot of potential at such a young age and playing alongside players such as club captain Cassidy Davis will only keep furthering Dundas’ development as a footballer going into her second A-League Women’s season.
Dundas will be an important player for Newcastle next season towards not only having another successful season but also making back-to-back Finals campaigns.
With both Dundas and Davis confirmed for the 2024/2025 season, Jets fans can begin to see the shape of their midfield to look like for next season.
The player that Dundas could potentially become is something that should really excite Newcastle fans for the future.
As for her thoughts on re-signing with Newcastle Jets for the upcoming A-League Women’s season, Dundas said, “I’m really happy to be able to re-sign for my hometown team. This season has been so surreal from my debut in Round One against the Mariners to playing Finals football with this great group of girls. This is the best place for me to play my football. I’m looking forward to continue growing as a player and I’m excited for what is to come for this team.”
Newcastle Jets Women’s Head Coach Ryan Campbell had this to say about Dundas re-signing with the club, “Emma is an example of the type of player that we are looking to develop at the Newcastle Jets. She is a homegrown player who has worked hard through our Academy to earn the chance to play for the club at the highest level. I am looking forward to working with her to help to get as much experience as possible in order to take her game to as far as she wants it to go.”
Above: Keely Lockhart celebrates scoring for Heidelberg United.
Heidelberg United 5 Boroondara Eagles 0
A dominant Heidelberg hammer a hapless Boroondara. Doubles from Keely Lockhart and Kathryn Vlahopoulous and a goal directly from a corner by Margot Robinne gave Heidelberg a comfortable victoy.
From the offset, Heidelberg looked threatening. Robinnewould have felt she should have done better from a cutback to the edge of the box that found her in space. Her effort however, was miscued over the bar.
Heidelberg went even closer to opening the scoring. Lockhart shot took a wicked deflection, forcing Boroondara keeper Malee Siketa into a tremendous save. The first goal for Heidelberg seemed inevitable
Indeed, it was and it was achieved in spectacular fashion. A fizzing corner from Robinne was too much for Siketa to handle, the ball slipping between her fingers and into the net.
Heidelberg’s attacking intent was relentless, causing a shaky Boroondara defence all sorts of problems.
This intent paid off again in the 41st minute when the home side doubled their lead. The goal stemmed from excellent wing play from Maddison Rakic. She was able to steal a march on her marker and drive towards the byline. Her pinpoint cross found a rising Lockhart to powerfully head home.
The beginning of the second half mirrored the beginning of the first. Heidelberg causing serious issues for a struggling Boroondara defence. The situation went from bad to worse for the visiting team. Defender Anna Liacopoulos was forced to play in goal after starting keeper Siketa was withdrawn due to injury. Heidelberg smelt blood in the water
A third goal soon came and this time Lockhart was the architect. After a ball in behind found Lockhart in acres of space on the right-hand side. The forward cut inside into the penalty area and had ample time to find the arriving Vlahopoulos at the far post who tucked the ball home.
The third goal was swiftly followed with the fourth goal for the home side. The unlikely goalkeeper Liacopoulos brought down an onrushing Sarah O’Donoghue. The referee pointed to the spot almost instantaneously. Vlahopoulos did the rest, firing to the right side of the keeper and getting her second goal of the game.
The fifth and final goal of the game rounded off an outstanding performance from both Heidelberg and Lockhart. Alana Janceviski’s inch perfect through ball set Lockhart in on goal. With ease, she rounded an unfortunate Liacopoulosand slotted home into an empty net to claim her second goal of the game.
78:59: GOAL! Heidelberg United W score to make it HUFC 5 : BEFC 0.
Above: Mariona Caldentey (centre) signs for Arsenal. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Mariona Caldentey is a strong attacking presence who has been vital to Barcelona’s success over the years. She leaves as a club legend with a vast collection of 25 trophies ranging from domestic to international competitions and has scored 115 goals in 303 appearances for the club.
Following the departure of the prolific Vivianne Miedema, Arsenal have been on the hunt for a first-class striker who is capable of both creating and scoring goals. Caldentey is the epitome of this as she is adept at playing across the attacking line which will add a new level of depth and versatility to Arsenal’s squad.
Although Caldentey isn’t viewed as a direct replacement for Miedema, many notable comparisons can be drawn between them. Their goal scoring statistics are equally impressive with Miedema scoring 125 goals and Caldentey 115 for their previous clubs. However, it’s worth noting that Miedema’s appearances are significantly lower than Caldentey’s therefore the Dutch international has scored more goals on average per game.
Both forwards are great finishers and can also provide assists through crosses from the wide areas.
However, Caldentey is distinctly more physical and direct which is seen by her ruthlessness in front of goal that sets her apart from many traditional strikers. She also possesses a venomous strike that can be unleashed from distance, if an opportunity arises.
Potentially, Caldentey could be a better option for Arsenal on account of her creativity as she forces defenders out of position in order to create pockets of space for teammates. She also puts pressure on opposition defenders and goalkeepers with the aim of forcing careless mistakes to create chances in front of goal.
Above: Mariona Caldentey after being unveiled as an Arsenal player. Photo: Arsenal Women.
In contrast, Miedema prefers to receive the ball outside of the box and then utilises her passing abilities to move higher up the pitch.
As a result, Miedema’s more traditional approach as a number nine has made it difficult for her to fit into Eidevall’s team which may have contributed to her shock exit from the club.
However, it remains to be seen if letting their widely renowned top scorer leave as a free agent, will transpire to be a costly mistake for the Gunners.
Gunners head coach Jonas Eidevall described Caldentey as a “world-class forward” and “a winner with proven experience of excelling on the biggest stage.” This highlights how the Spaniard’s plethora of trophies was a key reason why she was a major target in the summer transfer window. Undoubtedly, she will be a valued asset to an Arsenal side seeking redemption owing to her competitive spirit and trophy ambitions.
Upon her arrival, Caldentey stated that she “can’t wait to get started and help the team to win trophies.” This shows that she is eyeing an inaugural piece of English silverware in an increasingly competitive league, having won everything possible at Barcelona. The Spanish international has joined in pursuit of a fresh challenge that will test her ability to adapt to a new team in a different league.
Due to the record attendances and increased competitiveness on offer, growing numbers of Spanish players could now be weighing up whether to make a move to the Women’s Super League. This is because Liga F is dominated by Barcelona with the other teams suffering from a lack of investment. The attendances are also generally significantly lower than those that we see at the majority of teams in the WSL.
Above: Mariona Caldentey at Barcelona where she won a host of silverware. Photo: Sky Sports.
Furthermore, the investment in the WSL has grown exponentially since the 2022 Euros whereas Spain’s historic World Cup win has failed to have a similar impact on Liga F.
Therefore, it’s possible that Caldentey’s decision to choose Arsenal was helped by the club’s proliferating fan base and the opportunity to play regularly at the Emirates Stadium. Equally possible is the fact that many other big names will follow suit. Among Caldentey’s compatriots, Aitana Bonmati has highlighted the need for reform in Liga F whilst acknowledging the attractiveness of the WSL in comparison.
Having predominantly played as a left-winger, it would be unsurprising if Eidevall was to utilise her in this position. However, she will be in fierce competition with Caitlin Foord who has established herself as a regular in Eidevall’s starting 11. As a result, the Australian international may find herself fighting for a starting role, as Caldentey has repeatedly proved her excellence on the left wing.
Both forwards offer something different from Foord’s dribbling capabilities to Caldentey’s progressive play. From Eidevall’s perspective, Caldentey’s pace and shooting capabilities may lead to her emergence as the first-choice winger.
This is because Foord’s goal statistics have been underwhelming with the Australian only netting four times in the WSL last season, and facing criticism from pockets of the North London side’s fan base as a result.
In comparison, Caldentey’s finishing ability is first-class and she certainly has the capacity to become one of Arsenal’s leading goal-scorers.
Above: Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall, who has a job to do in order to fit Mariona Caldentey into his squad. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Therefore, it’s likely that Eidevall’s decision will depend on the opposition as both players have different strengths to showcase if given the chance.
If Foord was to lose her spot in the starting lineup, this could create a knock-on impact on the wider picture for the North London side as she has built up a great partnership with Matildas teammate and Arsenal left-back Steph Catley over the years. The pair regularly complete overlapping runs which can overload opposition defenders and allow accurate crosses to be fired into the penalty area.
Consequently, the introduction of Caldentey will mean that new partnerships need to be formed which could lead to mistakes on the pitch if not built up effectively.
From a technical perspective, the Spanish international is an all-rounder with the ability to maintain possession and drive the ball accurately between the lines of play.
She is frequently active within the opposition’s half as she works hard off the ball to ensure that she is always a passing option for teammates which allows fluidity in Arsenal’s style of play. This mirrors the type of play that Arsenal aims for as it enables the ball to be passed quickly up the field that initiates countless opportunities in front of goal.
On the left wing, Caldentey is a difficult opponent for any defender as she uses her immense pace and strength to advance forwards before delivering pinpoint crosses into the penalty area. Her physical presence allows her to withstand challenges and maintain possession that will contribute to Arsenal’s hold-up play.
Above: Caitlin Foord (right) could see her place in the starting line-up under threat with the arrival of Mariona Caldentey. Photo: Mariella Prew for Impetus.
As a result, Caldentey’s assist stats are admirable with the Spanish forward registering 16 assists in Liga F last season. These assists may be critical for the Gunners, as one of their top assist providers Victoria Pelova is expected to miss the entirety of the 2024/25 season with a devastating ACL injury.
Caldentey is adept at breaking defensive lines owing to her great vision which is crucial when breaking down low-blocks. This could be vital as much of Arsenal’s underwhelming season has been due to costly losses where the team has struggled against low-block teams.
A recurring trait that has caused Arsenal to fall short of expectations is their inability to capitalise upon opportunities in front of goal. Statistically, the Gunners are amongst the leading teams for chances created however they rank as one of the worst teams in the WSL for big chances missed. This highlights how the Gunners are successful in generating goal-scoring opportunities but the team lacks finishing quality.
Take for example, the North London Derby last season, where Arsenal had 60% possession and 31 shots but failed to score resulting in a damaging 1-0 loss for the Gunners.
In this fixture, the majority of Arsenal’s attempts lacked the power and conviction required to trouble the Spurs goalkeeper Barbora Votíková.
Contrastingly, the Lilywhites took advantage of their short spells of possession, with Martha Thomas heading home in the 57th minute to secure a historic first North London Derby victory.
Above: Mariona Caldentey puts pen to paper at Arsenal. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Caldentey has strong potential to improve Arsenal’s performances, especially in these tight games where the team struggles to break the deadlock. The Spanish international has produced critical goals multiple times such as a late winner in the 2018 Copa de la Reina Final. Therefore, Caldentey will inevitably provide the forward momentum and tenacity that has been lacking in Arsenal’s attack over recent seasons.
Further to this, Caldentey is a dependable penalty-taker which is clearly demonstrated by her penalty conversion rate of 100% last season.
Therefore, it’s likely that we will see Caldentey step up to take penalties regularly as her arrival will hope to boost Arsenal’s penalty success rate. The experienced Kim Little who is currently a first-choice penalty taker only scored 33% of her penalties last season meaning that Caldentey could be the preferred choice moving forward.
Furthermore, the Gunners’ shock early exit from the UEFA Champions League last season was due to defeat on penalties against Paris FC. This raises the question of the pivotal role that Caldentey can play in the Gunners’ future success owing to her ability to influence the direction of games.
Caldentey’s arrival can catalyse the turnaround that Arsenal desperately need to ensure that their title hopes are kept alive by avoiding shock defeats where the team has failed to convert. She is a gifted striker who regularly capitalises upon her countless opportunities in the final third that is evidenced by her notable statistics for both goals and assists.
Therefore, Caldentey could well be the missing piece of the puzzle for an Arsenal side who are pursuing a breakthrough season to obtain their first piece of major silverware in years.
Ben Gilby provides a full review of this weekend’s action along with photography from Rob Lizzi(7/7/24).
Above: Daisy McAllister cracks in a shot for Perth SC against Murdoch University Melville on Saturday. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Balcatta Etna 0-2 Perth RedStar
Perth RedStar returned to the top of the ladder with this hugely important win over potential title rivals Balcatta Etna at Home Group Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The visitors went into the game on the back of a run of two losses in their last four NPLW WA games, but as well as having the opportunity to widen the gap between themselves and Balcatta to eight points, there was the additional motivation of marking both Jayna Ridley’s hundredth appearance for the first team and Bronwyn Studman’s final game before moving to Melbourne with victory.
The home side, unbeaten in the league since their previous meeting with the champions, brought Lucy Jerram back into the starting line-up, and last season’s top scorer Tia Stonehill came in on the bench. RedStar were without leading scorer Caitlin Doeglas.
Above: Lucy Jerram, back in the starting line-up for Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography.
The early stages saw both teams playing it carefully until the first chance arrived with seven minutes on the clock. A beautiful exchange from RedStar’s Olivia Wood and Jayna Ridley found Sarah Carroll positioned centrally outside the box. The former Perth Glory star crashed in a shot that took a deflection which fell for Mischa Anderson to hit a low follow-up that Rebecca Bennett got down to hold in the Balcatta goal.
Wood had a superb match. She was hugely influential with runs, and strong link-up play with Ridley. She would also cause real headaches in shooting positions for the home side as the game developed.
Balcatta fashioned their first real opportunity on the quarter-hour mark as Jerram played an excellently weighted threaded pass to Faye Phillips on the right-hand side of the box. Phillips’ shot from 10 yards out was pushed away by RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco for the first of three corners in succession.
The home side were now growing into the game. Rachel Jarvis was stamping her authority on proceedings. Her runs into space and eye for a perfectly weighted pass were making her a key part of Balcatta’s performance. Allied with continually smart link-up play with Jerram, it meant that Pete Rakic’s side were beginning to show their potential.
Above: Abbey Meakins, who would hit a stunning volley in the second half for Balcatta Etna. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
In order to fully cause RedStar problems though, they needed to improve with their accuracy in front of goal. With Abbey Meakins dropping deeper, Balcatta would have to find other ways of troubling their former custodian Dal Busco.
RedStar would show the way when it came to shots on goal – but, crucially in the opening half, they were faced by Rebecca Bennett in superb form for the hosts. The former Perth SC goalkeeper made three crucial saves in the space of 18 minutes.
First, Studman gained possession on the left and played into Ridley outside her, just on the edge of the box. She in turn threaded a pass through for Manami Arai who saw a powerful shot repelled by Bennett.
Then, Arai played in a low ball from the right for Wood who was unmarked, but Bennett was able to gather due to the RedStar attacker being unable to get enough power behind her shot.
Above: Momoko Sakairi and Manami Arai who both played an important role in Perth RedStar’s win. Photo: Perth RedStar.
Shortly afterwards, Momoko Sakairi fed Wood who this time connected superbly, with Bennett denying her once more.
Balcatta were not without chances though. Just after the half-hour mark, Meakins’ free-kick wide on the left came in low and forced Dal Busco to get down to her near post to push away for a corner. Then, just before the interval, Monique D’Opera provided a high ball in from the right but Jukic headed over the top.
The key exchanges that would ultimately prove decisive in this match occurred 10 minutes after the break. Balcatta advanced as Jerram beat Andreia Teixeira before curling a shot from just over 10 yards that came crashing back off the right-hand post. Jamie-Lee Gale’s follow-up was then repelled by a flying save by Dal Busco.
Within 120 seconds, the hosts were to pay the ultimate price for those misses. A short corner on the right for RedStar was played for Reina Kagami to cut in from the by-line and beat two defenders before laying a low pass across for Wood to control and hit a low shot into the net from inside the six-yard box.
GOAL! 55:37
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs Perth Redstar W match at Grindleford Reserve.
RedStar’s consistent ability to punish opponents for failing to take chances is something that sets them apart from the rest in the NPLW WA – and it happened again here with a deserved goal for Wood.
The visitors controlled the possession and territory with ruthless abandon for rest of the second half.
Two minutes after the goal, Ridley found Kagami who hit a low shot just wide of the left-hand post before Carroll fed Wood which led to the RedStar attacker hitting an outrageous effort with the outside of her foot that twisted into Bennett’s arms.
The second goal for the defending champions came with 67 minutes on the clock. Liana Cook’s clearance from defence for Balcatta only found RedStar’s Abbey Woolley just outside the box. She squared to Carroll who then played a one-two with Kagami before supplying a pass for Wood. Positioned to the right of centre, the number 10 hit a first-time shot into the net from 15 yards for a superb strike.
GOAL! 67:01
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs Perth Redstar W match at Grindleford Reserve.
The visitors kept pushing to extend their lead further. Leota hit a shot over the top, and shortly afterwards, the same player showed great determination in chasing a seemingly lost cause as the ball looked to be rolling out for a goal-kick, but the New Zealand international chased it down and played out to Arai. The Japanese attacker supplied a pass for compatriot Kagami who hit a shot just over.
Leota was involved again twice more in the closing stages. First, with two minutes remaining, she fed Kagami outside the box, but the eventual shot went wide of the right-hand post. Then, two minutes into stoppage time, she was found by Wood’s cross in the middle of the box but saw her shot go over the top.
Balcatta could only fashion two further opportunities. Alyssa van Heurck’s cross was headed away initially by Carroll but the ball fell for Meakins to hit a stunning first-time volley from around 25 yards that Dal Busco pushed away.
Then, deep into stoppage time, Meakins fed Jerram who advanced, but excellent defending by Woolley made the angle for a shot increasingly more acute and Jerram’s final effort went wide.
After defeats against top-four rivals Perth SC and Fremantle City over the last month, this was a statement-making success for Carlos Vega Mena’s side this afternoon. They were back to their ruthless best.
Balcatta have suffered a major dent in their NPLW WA championship hopes, but one thing that the league has taught us this season is that on any given day, anyone in the top four can beat each other – and that bodes well for the Top Four Cup in September.
Teams:BALCATTA ETNA: R. Bennett, Cook, D’Opera, van Heurck, St. Pierre, Meakins, Jarvis, Jukic, Jerram, Phillips, Gale. Substitutes: Davis, Godding, Cornall, Stonehill, Bricklenbank.
Above: Grace Johnston (azure shirt) fires in a shot for Perth SC on Saturday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Round 13 opened on Saturday evening with Perth SC comprehensively defeating Murdoch University Melville to put maximum pressure on leaders Perth RedStar ahead of their tricky trip to Balcatta Etna the following day.
In a game played in very wet conditions, the home side hit the front with 12 minutes played as Grace Johnston advanced up the right flank to square a pass across the edge of the box which was allowed to run on for Daisy McAllister to sweep home with aplomb into the right-hand corner.
Above: Murdoch University Melville’s Australian international Ella Mastrantonio (red shirt) looks to make a tackle on Saturday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Five minutes later, The Azzurri doubled their advantage when Johnston motored up the right once more and found Ella Lincoln on the edge of the box. With her back to goal and closely marked by two defenders, Lincoln laid off a pass for Sam Mathers behind her to slot home across Manon Gebauer for a goal that was almost a carbon copy of the finish for Perth’s opener.
Twelve minutes before the break, Danielle Brogan’s side looked to have made the game safe. Mathers took possession inside her own half and dissected the MUM FC midfield to play in Lincoln who turned before rolling a pass into Johnston ahead of her, who timed her run to perfection to run diagonally past Tiana Klomp, draw Gebauer and guide the ball into the right-hand corner of the net.
Above: Daisy McAllister, scorer of two goals for Perth SC on Saturday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
There was still time for a further two goals before the break. First, there was another cool finish from McAllister, this time stationed on the right-hand edge of the box after being found in acres of space by Lincoln. Then, with less than 30 seconds of the half remaining, more magic from Lincoln saw her found in the box. The attacker held off Ella Mastrantonio, turned, and hit a low shot across Gebauer from around 10 yards out.
Ten minutes into the second half, the visitors got a consolation of sorts when Luana Ascenzo-Cabello threaded a ball forward that Nyana Jayme picked up on a diagonal run across the Azzurri box to hit first time across Lilly Bailey and in.
With 15 minutes remaining, Perth restored their five-goal advantage with the final goal of the encounter as Lincoln played a high pass across from the right flank for Mathers on the edge of the box to the left centre. She turned her marker and floated a glorious effort into the top of the net.
More of Rob Lizzi’s photos from the match at Dorrien Gardens
This game was postponed due to the NTC competing in the National Youth Championships. It has been rearranged for Wednesday 24th July with an 8pm kick-off.
UWA-Nedlands P-P Fremantle City
A waterlogged pitch at the UWA Sports Park led to this game being postponed. At the time of writing no date has been set to play the match.
NPLW WA Ladder Round 13
Table From: Squadi
Fixtures
STATE CUP SEMI-FINALS: Tuesday: Perth SC v Fremantle City (7pm). Wednesday: Balcatta Etna v Perth RedStar (7pm).
NPLW WA ROUND 14: Saturday: Hyundai NTC v Perth RedStar. Sunday: Balcatta Etna v UWA-Nedlands, Fremantle City v Murdoch University Melville, Subiaco v Perth SC.
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