Above: Bulleen Lions coach and Elite Female Football founder Caitlin Friend with playmaker Rosie Rodger.
After securing consecutive premierships and Nike FC Cup while developing youth in and outside of the club, Bulleen Lions coach Caitlin Friend is emerging as one of Victoria’s benchmark coaches.
Before Bulleen Lions players run onto the pitch at the Veneto club, coach Caitlin Friend reminds them to tap a sign on the wall. The footage captured in 2021 by Gold Leaf Media shows every player doing so dutifully and then playing as if they have taken the words to heart. The message, “The best players don’t win games, the best teams do.”
It is not a new concept in sports, but the results show it is one that Friend clearly lives by. In the last two seasons, the 30-year-old manager has built two very different teams to steadily become the dominant coach of Victoria’s NPLW.
It is an unforgiving league, and every season is vastly different. Almost every side can boast big names from the A-League Women, and it is also rightfully seen as a real launchpad for other to get into Australia’s top tier. That makes it highly competitive, and trophy winners can face relegation or vice versa from one season to the next.
Over the last three seasons, fans have seen the rise and fall of some great sides, but over that time, Bulleen have been a constant at the pointy end of the season. in each campaign, they have fielded very different squads and implemented different tactics by necessity. But the trajectory has always trended upward.
In 2022 they finished third but made the Grand Final. In 2023 Friend won her first trophy as premiers. In 2024, she guided Bulleen to top spot again, while also claiming the Nike FC Cup (The state’s knockout competition.)
The improvement has not just been in the trophy cabinet. Under Friend, Bulleen have always been a high goal scoring team, but in 2024 they ended with a goal difference of 45 over 22 games. 67 goals over a season is impressive on its own, but the 2024 attack was build around three players all aged 22 or under, Rosie Rodger (19) Alana Cortellino (17) and Maja Markovski (22).
The 2022 and 2023 Lions could rely on senior, enviable talents such as Alana Jancevski, Beattie Goad and Lia Privitelli to lead the line. Whether managing undeniable stars or developing rising ones, Caitlin Friend has formed winning teams.
Her most recent success was achieved with largely unproven youth, but there is an impressive and established ability to win with different types of players in different stages of their careers.
To do that takes tactical flexibility, trust in players and an ability to inspire hunger even in those who have already achieved great things in the sport. Friend can both attract big names who want to be part of what she is building and rising stars from other clubs looking to take that next step.
She also seemingly commands loyalty from within Bulleen’s youth ranks. A talented player like Rodger has risen through the ranks before becoming a regular starer in 2024. Caitlin Friend clearly inspires faith from inside the club and out.
The two sides that won back to back premierships share an identity. The defenders start deep, but are the first playmakers in the team. The strikers press hard and try and outwork and outrun their opposition, and they excel at scoring from set pieces.
However, the personnel are very different. The 2023 winners could depend on the individual brilliance of Goad or Jancevski, with Paige Zois pulling the strings in midfield. In defence they had newly announced Western United defender Claudia Mihocic.
The 2024 Lions relied on Cortellino and Markosvki in attack. In midfield Yuka Sato pulled the strings and Izabel Dehakiz arrived as a marauding yet reliable centre back.
Bulleen could grind out results, or go head to head with another attacking team as they did in the Nike FC Cup Final. Only one side was able to defeat them twice this season. The Essendon Royals joining Heidlberg United and Preston Lions as one of three teams to leave the field with a win after facing Bulleen.
Those who have played and excelled under Caitlin Friend all say that same thing. She gives them belief in their own abilities as matchwinners and belief in the team they are playing in.
More than one player that Impetus spoke to described her as an underrated coach in Australia, but that tag may not last much longer if these results and performances continue.
Although Markovski was the brightest star in the 2024 season, she was not always the deciding factor. The mid season arrival of Tiffany Eliadis and the careful use of Alana Murphy was instrumental at crucial moments of the season.
Eliadis was used in a variety of roles to either sure up the midfield defensively or cause chaos in attack. Despite her youth, Cortellino was often trusted as the key weapon in attack. The new Western United acquisition was an undeniable talent at FV Emerging, but it is one thing to light up a development team, another to dominate for the premiers.
Stability looked to be a priority for Bulleen this season. Although she could name a capped Matilda like Goad on the bench, Friend seemed to prefer as few changes to the lineup as possible in favour of momentum and rewarding form.
This does not mean she was afraid to make changes. Predicting how Eliadis would start was impossible from game to game, and Friend was always happy to turn to the bench to change to game. Lourdes Gonzales being one particular weapon that helped seal the premiership with a spectacular performance against Alamein.
Friend’s ability to work well and get the most out of experienced and up and coming players should not be a surprise. Her career as a player is highly respected at Melbourne Victory and she has talked about how much she learned during 13 hour days at Notts County.
In her first seasons as a manager, she coached many players that she had played with, at just 30 years old those times were practically yesterday.
Ontop of that, Friend has coached at all age levels for Bulleen, and runs the Elite Female Football academy. Accompanied with a UEFA B License and a lifelong obsession for the sport, she has all the tools to develop players, attract big names, reform players at career crossroads and combine all three to produce trophy winning sides.
Right now, Caitlin Friend is the benchmark manager of Victoria’s NPLW. Three trophies in two very different seasons is a highly impressive haul. She has shown that she can build winning teams and noticeably improve individual careers.
With what has been achieved so far, it is sometimes hard to believe that she is only three full seasons into her career in the dugout.
All signs point to a very exciting future for one of Australia’s most promising coaches, and the women’s game may benefit long term from what she has already built.
Ben Gilby(BG), Tommy Doleman(TD), and Kelechi Osunwa (KO) select theirsquad of the 30 best players in the competition this season and then reveal their 11 starters and seven substitutes before inviting you to select your starting team from the squad listed(25/9/24).
GOALKEEPERS:
Gabby Dal Busco (Perth RedStar), Rebecca Bennett (Balcatta Etna).
DEFENDERS:
Epril Nossent (Perth SC), Baxter Thew (Perth SC), Andreia Teixeira (Perth RedStar), Annabelle Leek (Fremantle City), Quyen Doan (Perth RedStar), Kimberley McCartney (Perth SC), Mischa Anderson (Perth RedStar), Alyssa van Heurck (Balcatta Etna), Violet Longmore (Hyundai NTC), Sofie Osborne (Fremantle City), Nelli Johnson (Hyundai NTC).
STRIKERS: Ella Lincoln (Perth SC), Tanika Lala (Fremantle City), Lucy Jerram (Balcatta Etna), Abbey Green (Fremantle City), Marianna Tabain (Subiaco).
Picking from the 30 players listed above, here is our choice of starting line-up and substitutes. Who would you pick? Share your team in the comments section and join the debate!
Goalkeeper
Gabby Dal Busco (Perth RedStar)
Above: Gabby Dal Busco gathers the ball ahead of Perth SC’s Ruby Marshall. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
The Oxford Dictionary defines insurance as “a thing providing protection against a possible eventuality.” That description is particularly apt when describing Dal Busco this season for Perth RedStar. Just like it’s rare to be involved in an accident, it’s rare that the three-time double-winners are under siege or require intervention between the sticks. But when Tanika Lala was running through on goal, just like insurance, Dal Busco was there to minimize the damage.
Moving from Balcatta Etna, where she’s played throughout the entire NPLW era, Dal Busco fits right in at RedStar. Coach Carlos Vega Mena described the goalkeeper as “a gift from the sky.” Clean sheets are always important, but performances against Fremantle City, Perth SC at home, and Balcatta Etna in the Night Series final are just some examples of Dal Busco’s quality, where her saves proved decisive (KO).
Defenders
Epril Nossent (Perth SC)
Above: Epril Nossent escapes down the flank for Perth SC at UWA-Nedlands. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Commanding, marauding, imposing, and a nightmare for wingers to face, Epril Nossent played a key role in the Perth SC defence that challenged for and made history as State Cup winners.
Playing right-back in this league often means being tasked with marking the likes of Abbey Green, Lucy Jerram, and Caitlin Douglas—players who are regularly in the running for our Player of the Month award. Nossent has more than held her own in those key duels. Her performance in the State Cup final laid the foundation for victory, and she has added goals to her repertoire in 2024, netting five across all competitions, including a hat-trick against Subiaco.
It’s easy to overlook her contribution to a team with several Perth Glory players, and the league’s top goal scorer, but doing so would mean missing a vital ingredient. Nossent has been the salt in the Perth soup (KO).
Baxter Thew (Perth SC)
Above: Baxter Thew has been a commanding presence in the defence for Perth SC this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
It’s been a sensational season for Perth SC captain Baxter Thew. As well as leading her team to silverware in the State Cup Final, and a place in the Top Four Cup Final, Thew has been in consistently outstanding form.
Whether it be keeping red-hot in-form attackers largely quiet in hugely important matches, or giving those around her the benefit of her experience, this has been a stand-out season for the defender.
When asked about her run of excellent performances, Thew told Perth SC’s official online platforms: “Over time you just naturally become exposed to more scenarios within the game and establish good habits…As I’ve become more experienced I think I’m much calmer in my approach when playing.”
Baxter Thew has been immense (BG).
Andreia Teixeira (Perth RedStar)
Above: Andreia Teixeira gets up highest for Perth RedStar in the Top Four Cup Major Semi-Final against Perth SC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi
When a player of Kim Carroll’s class and experience retires at the end of 2023 you wonder whether that will leave a crack in defence for the opposition to exploit. Well, the answer was no, and that’s largely because Andi Teixeira remained as a rock at the heart of the RedStar defence.
Her partnership with Mischa Anderson (unlucky to miss out on a spot in our XI) was pivotal in the nine-game unbeaten run Carlos Vega Mena’s side had en route to winning a third consecutive league title. And remarkably now, Teixera has been in the defence of all three of those sides which puts her in elite company in the context of the NPL era.
Cool, calm, and composed at the back, and also not shy of the challenge. Just a really good footballer and one of the league’s best defenders means she’s a walk-up starter for this team of the year for the second season in a row (TD).
Annabelle Leek (Fremantle City)
Above: Annabelle Leek strides forward for Fremantle City this season. Photo: Cat Bryant.
If newcomers to the NPL WA Women’s competition were told Annabelle Leek was a flying winger in her younger days at Freo then they would struggle to believe you. And that’s because Leek’s improvement in the centre of defence is such that you couldn’t envisage her playing anywhere else now – and it has earned her a berth in our team of the year for the second season in a row.
After the early season departure of Laura Waltman, Fremantle City had a leadership void to fill and Leek consistently stepped up to be the steadying force among a young squad. And from a footballing standpoint, her passing is often the starting point of the City attack and positionally there was many a game where it seemed she was in the right place at the right time.
Her partnership at the back with Catherine Adams will be key if Freo are to reach the post-season for the sixth successive year in 2025 (TD).
Midfielders
Caitlin Doeglas (Perth RedStar)
Above: Caitlin Doeglas looks to break through at Subiaco this season. Photo: Denise RM Photography.
One of the eye-catching signings in the NPLW WA off-season was RedStar’s addition of Caitlin Doeglas to further strengthen the champions.
The former Perth Glory striker had stints with Balcatta and Perth SC at the beginning of the NPLW era before heading east to play in the NPLW NSW. But upon returning to WA, she hit the ground running with a hat-trick in March’s Night Series Final win and five goals in three league games, which set the tone for what was to come.
Doeglas predominantly played on the left of the attack in 2024 and showed she was a force both on the transition and when RedStar was building up with possession in the final third. 17 goals in the league saw her finish joint-fourth in the goal-scoring charts for season 2024 and it wouldn’t surprise to see her kick on and score even more next year (TD).
Abbey Meakins (Balcatta Etna)
Above: Balcatta Etna’s Abbey Meakins on the ball at Subiaco earlier this season. Photo: Denise RM Photography.
It was a welcome sight to see Abbey Meakins return to the NPLW in 2024. Last season was a frustrating one, derailed by injury for the former Perth Glory attacker, but she was back to her best this year.
Seven goals in May earned her our Player of the Month award, but it was her versatility that stood out this season. Injuries to the Balcatta squad meant that coach Pete Rakic deployed Meakins as a striker, second striker, attacking midfielder, and even in withdrawn midfield roles. The “Little General” didn’t disappoint.
Seventeen goals in the league and Balcatta’s first-ever Top Four finish are the fruits of their labor, with Meakins serving as a fulcrum for the red and blue. She has also earned a shot at claiming awards in the Gold Medal race. Long may it continue for the attacker, but as LL Cool J said, “Let’s not call it a ‘comeback’; she’s been doing it for years,”(KO).
Reina Kagami (Perth RedStar)
Above: Reina Kagami (black shirt) looks to break through at Subiaco earlier this season. Photo: Denise RM Photography.
If there was any doubt as to whether Reina Kagami’s debut NPLW WA season in 2023 was a flash in the pan, then that was quickly put to bed with a string of exceptional performances in the Perth RedStar midfield this year.
The Japanese is simply one of the league’s best players, who is capable of doing it all in the centre of the park. But where she thrives most is in that number eight role whether that’s playmaking, scoring long-range goals, or arriving late in the box to make a telling contribution.
Remarkably, she scored 22 league goals to finish runner-up in the Golden Boot race for a second successive season, and that should surely see her at the pointy end of the Gold Medal count once again. Kagami’s inclusion into this XI for the second season in a row was one of the easiest picks for the panel to make and here’s hoping we get to see her playing in the NPLW WA again next year! (TD).
Olivia Wood (Perth RedStar)
Above: Perth RedStar’s hugely talented young attacker, Olivia Wood (facing camera). Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
One of the feel-good stories of 2024 has been the late-season renaissance of Olivia Wood, as the forward recaptured the form that saw her catch the eye in RedStar’s undefeated and silverware-clean sweeping 2022.
Following a frustrating 2023 with injury, Wood has bounced back in spectacular fashion with 14 goals this term, 12 of which have come since the midway mark of the campaign when RedStar’s title charge mattered most. Factor in as well that she became a serious big-game performer with the winning goal in Saturday’s Top Four Cup Final, the opener in the State Cup Final loss two weeks prior, and also the decisive goal when RedStar met the Azzurri in Round 16’s prospective title-deciding game.
Hopefully, those performances give her a shot at impressing Perth Glory’s new coaching staff, and there’s also a chance she could be the late-season mover when October’s Gold Medal count comes around (TD).
Forwards
Tanika Lala (Fremantle City)
Above: Fremantle City’s Tanika Lala (black shirt) fires in a shot at Subiaco this season. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Tanika Lala may have missed both the beginning few weeks of the season and the closing period, but in between, the nugget from the Goldfields was, at times completely unplayable.
After taking a short break following the completion of her first A-League Women season with Perth Glory, Lala came into a Freo side who were struggling for wins after losing a number of key players. The Kalgoorlie-born attacker quickly formed a dynamite partnership with Abbey Green which lifted Lala to career-best form.
The searing runs and ability to finish from both long-range and close-in marked the attacker out as a goal scorer par excellence but Lala was equally deadly in linking up with her teammates around her. She was in sensational form before an injury gained a few weeks before the end of the regular season ruled her out of the remaining games. With time to recover ahead of the new A-League Women campaign, Lala could take the national competition by storm this year (BG).
Ella Lincoln (Perth SC)
Above: Ella Lincoln (azure shirt) – the NPLW WA’s record scorer for a single season. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
It has been quite a year for Ella Lincoln. Her 26 goals in 21 matches – the highest-ever tally during an NPLW WA season – meant that she was an absolute shoo-in for selection for our starting line-up for the second year in a row.
Lincoln began the campaign with an almost telepathically successful partnership with Jess Flannery up front for the Azzurri which was tragically ended when Flannery suffered a season-ending injury. However, the attacker adapted and developed another understanding with Sam Mathers and her side’s talented midfielders which ensured that the goals still came.
What marks Lincoln out as more than just a goalscorer is her work rate for the team, and desire to pop up all across the front third to support her side’s attack. The Perth star’s previous experience as a left-sided attacker gives her the confidence to run at defenders both centrally and out wide to feed her fellow forwards as well as earn the shots on goal that have contributed to her record goal tally (BG).
Substitutes
Quyen Doan (Perth RedStar)
Above: Quyen Doan (red shirt) looks to deny Sam Mathers in the Top Four Cup Major Semi-Final. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
One of the quiet achievers of season 2024 who has proved to be an important cog of the league’s best defence.
Doan has become more and more diligent in her defensive duties over the past 12 months to the point you just expect to see her on the team sheet each and every week. Having played on the right-hand side combating the likes of Abbey Green, Jess Flannery, and Lucy Jerram for most of the season, we saw in Saturday’s Top Four Cup Final that she’s equally as capable when switched across to the left to perform well in that role.
Throw in the fact she’s a set-piece threat after scoring three goals – all from corners and free kicks (TD).
Kim McCartney (Perth SC)
Above: Kim McCartney in action for Perth SC this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Part of the Balcatta Etna exodus, Kim McCartney found herself in new surroundings in 2024 but with a familiar backline—Epril Nossent to her right and Baxter Thew to her left. It wasn’t long before McCartney was playing at her best again.
A terrific ball-playing defender with exquisite technique, she delivers line-breaking passes into midfield, often accompanied by instructions like “turn” or “hold it up.”
Strong in the tackle, McCartney often strides away from duels in her trademark trot, head up, looking to launch the next attack. When she’s not making timely interceptions or breaking the lines, she’s a dead-ball specialist on a team spoiled for choice.
Her free-kick against Perth RedStar was the winning goal in a 4-3 classic that gave the Azzurri the belief to challenge the champions in both the league and the State Cup. Her partnership with Baxter Thew has been outstanding and is among the best centre-back pairings in recent NPL memory—a testament to their quality (KO).
Tijan McKenna (Perth SC)
Above: Tijan McKenna on the charge for Perth SC at Murdoch University Melville this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Coming back into the NPLW WA late after being part of Melbourne City’s A-League Women Grand Final squad, Tijan McKenna produced a succession of outstanding performances in the centre of midfield that showed exactly why she is a Young Matilda.
After playing more games as a defender than she would have liked previously, Azzurri head coach Danielle Brogan gave McKenna the gig in the centre of the park with a wealth of other talented youngsters alongside her, and Perth Glory’s new signing revelled in the role.
McKenna offered both outstanding vision with her passing game and a strong physical presence in the centre-mid position. These skills, plus the confidence to stride forward and play an integral role in her team’s attack mean that she has shown exactly why so many in the West have been excited about her potential (BG).
Sarah Carroll (Perth RedStar)
Above: Sarah Carroll (red shirt) holds off Ella Lincoln of Perth SC in the Top Four Cup Major Semi-Final. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Sarah Carroll has always been a key member of whatever team she has played for, and this season she showed that she remains one of the best players around.
Carroll supplied one of the performances for the ages in RedStar’s Top Four Cup game against Balcatta Etna where, thanks to her two goals and an assist, the champions came from behind twice to gain a spot in the Final.
A player who is not only comfortable defending, Carroll is deadly from set-pieces and drives her team forward as a true example to the younger heads around her. Every team needs a Sarah Carroll (BG).
Daisy McAllister (Perth SC)
Above: Daisy McAllister in action for Perth SC at UWA-Nedlands this season. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Playing an integral role in a hugely talented young midfield at Perth SC, Daisy McAllister has grown as the season went on and her team earned silverware.
McAllister has a deceptive strength on the ball which allows her to feed those around her as well as use pace to break through the midfield to both score and supply assists. A succession of searing runs and powerful shots on goal at UWA-Nedlands in August showcases what she is capable of, and it set the trend for a powerful end to the campaign as McAllister stepped it up when it mattered most.
A heartbreaking injury early on in the Top Four Cup Final that necessitated her to leave the pitch meant that the young midfielder’s season ended in a way that no one would have wanted – but she has shown so much that ensures her place in our team of the season (BG).
Ella Mastrantonio (Murdoch University Melville)
Above: Ella Mastrantonio points the way forward during her most recent time at Perth Glory in 2022/23. Photo: Tom McCarthy.
In top-level football, the margins are slim, and often one moment can be the difference between zero and one point, or between making or missing your pre-season targets.
The same can be said of elite players—they can make the difference in your season. Mastrantonio was that difference for Murdoch University Melville. The midfield maestro joined midway through the 2024 season and raised both the floor and ceiling of the young, tenacious squad. The former Matildas player’s influence was felt both on and off the pitch, with a crucial free kick against relegation rivals UWA-Nedlands standing out. Her presence in the locker room was just as impactful, elevating standards and instilling responsibility (KO).
A terrific player and an even better person, we are blessed to have her in our league.
Lucy Jerram (Balcatta Etna)
Above: Lucy Jerram (navy shirt) strikes for goal against Perth RedStar in the Night Series. Photo: JASP Photography.
Lucy Jerram epitomizes the equation for force: mass x acceleration. Tiny but mighty, the left winger explodes off the pitch with pace, passion, and a thunderous left foot.
Her impact was immediate as she reintroduced herself to WA football like a wrecking ball, tearing through defenses. Tough and tenacious, few can keep up with Jerram once she’s in full flow, and even fewer want to win as much as she does. While her fiery temperament can land her in the referee’s book at times, when harnessed and focused, her left foot can be devastating for defenders, goalposts, and nets alike.
Her performance against Perth RedStar in the Night Series group stage put the league on notice. After scoring nine goals in the first seven league games, teams had to implement ‘Jerram contingencies’ to contain her. Though injuries and time off the pitch slowed her momentum, she returned with a bang, scoring four goals in her last four games to end the season with 16 goals (KO).
Previous Impetus NPLW WA Team of the Year selections:
Above: Frida Maanum Celebrating with teammates after giving Arsenal the lead after eight minutes at the Emirates Stadium. Credits: @ArsenalWFC on X
Arsenal 2-2 ManchesterCity
by Christopher Heathat The Emirates for Impetus (22/09/24)
Beth Mead netted a 81st-minute equaliser for Arsenal as the Gunners drew 2-2 with Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium in their opening match of the 2024/25 Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) campaign.
Arsenal – Focussingonthefull–backs
Caitlin Foord and Stina Blackstenius – in particular set an individual target on the backs of Manchester City’s two full-backs, Kerstin Casparij and Leila Ouahabi, almost immediately from kick-off. The game’s opening goal, after only eight minutes, saw Caitlin Foord’s run on the shoulder of Ouahabi (which caught out the visiting right-back), would ultimately allow Frida Maanum to beat Ayaka Yamashita.
Another trend-setting attack, this time on the opposite flank at the Emirates to where the Maanum’s goal was manufactured from, nearly exposed City yet again not long after, as Blackstenius inexplicably missed an open goal.
City’s unforeseen solution to the Gunners’ running riot down the wings was answered with five minutes left in the first half, as the injury-stricken Ouahabi was replaced by Alanna Kennedy – who admittedly looked more assured than Ouahabi throughout the remainder of the match.
However, Arsenal’s 81st-minute equaliser from the boot of Beth Mead came as a direct result of Katie McCabe’s defence-splitting pass down the left-hand side – that caught out Kerstin Casparij – which saw Rosa Kafaji provide an inadvertent assist – as her effort struck the outside of the post before falling into the path of the Lioness.
Manchester City – Showcasing their firepower further up the field
Despite looking extremely exposed defensively down both flanks throughout the first half; albeit going in at HT level at 1-1, City showcased their awe-inspiring attacking qualities in the final third after the restart, with arguably the most dangerous front-six (Jess Park, Yui Hasegawa, Vivianne Miedema, Aoba Fujino, Lauren Hemp and Khadija Shaw) in the Barclays Women’s Super League.
In particular, Park ran the show from the middle of the park (excuse the pun) in the second 45 – deservedly capping off her performance by netting her side’s second in the 59th minute with a stunning long-range effort – adding to her midweek brace against Paris FC in the UEFA Women’s Champions League 2nd qualification round.
The introduction of Alanna Kennedy – who replaced the injury-stricken Leila Ouahabi after 40 minutes – brought an aura of stability to the Citizens’ defence, which had previously struggled with Caitlin Foord’s numerous runs in behind, in turn, allowing Park and teammates to showcase their skills further afield in the second half.
ImpactofCaitlinFoord against City’s full-backs
Arsenal’s Aussie Caitlin Foord undoubtedly emerged as the victor in her battle with both Kerstin Casparij and Leila Ouahabi in the first half. Every time the Australian international picked up the ball she looked to have the beating, admittedly she did on almost every occasion, of the Citizens’ first-choice full-backs.
Despite not being officially accredited with the assist for Frida Maanum’s goal, the Gunners would not have opened the scoring at the Emirates if not for her delivery into the danger zone.
However, give credit where credit is due, it’s well worth noting that following the introduction of Alanna Kennedy from the 40th minute onwards (following an injury to Ouchabi) Manchester City looked more stable, especially on the left. Foord did have her moments in the second half but admittedly did not have the impact that everyone gloriously witnessed in the first.
Report by Ben Gilby, photography from Rob Lizzi(21/9/24).
Above:Perth RedStar celebrate with the Top Four Cup yesterday after defeating Perth SC 1-0. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Perth RedStar earned their third successive NPLW WA Top Four Cup, and a fourth in five years thanks to Olivia Wood’s stunning goal just before the half-hour mark at the Sam Kerr Football Centre.
Carlos Vega Mena’s side had to overcome the additional challenge of playing an extra Final midweek against Balcatta Etna after losing to Perth SC in last Sunday’s Major Semi-Final for the right to progress directly to the season’s Grand Final.
If that wasn’t difficult enough, RedStar overcame Balcatta despite going behind twice, and earned their place in this showdown thanks to a sensational personal performance from Sarah Carroll who scored two and supplied the other in her side’s 3-2 win at Home Group Stadium.
Above: Sarah Carroll (red shirt) holds off the NPLW WA’s top scorer Ella Lincoln yesterday. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
This encounter had all the ingredients of a classic with the league’s two highest goal scorers, Ella Lincoln of Perth SC and Reina Kagami from Perth RedStar facing off, along with RedStar’s stats of having the league’s tightest defence.
The pre-game team news saw Perth SC make one change from the starting line-up from last weekend’s Major Semi-Final success over RedStar, with Tijan McKenna coming into midfield and Sam Mathers dropping down to the bench. RedStar also made one change from their midweek success, with Abbey Woolley moving down to the bench with Jayna Ridley coming in.
Perth SC went into the game with the confidence of two wins over their opponents in successive weeks in their bid to secure a first victory in the season-ending Grand Final. They started in a well-organised manner with captain Baxter Thew working hard to deny Wood any attacking opportunities.
Above: Charli Wainwright bursts through for Perth SC yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri began looking to maintain possession, playing across the field, patiently waiting to find the killer final ball. Whenever RedStar had the ball in this spell of the game, there were azure shirts surrounding them instantly.
Just after the 22-minute mark, McAllister had to leave the field due to injury, replaced by Mathers. The next major piece of action would be the one that ultimately decided this encounter.
With 27 minutes played, Reina Kagami played a pass forward for Wood. Thew cleared the initial danger from the RedStar attacker, but the ball was returned to the number 10 and Wood curled a trademark stunning shot from the edge of the box on the left into the top right-hand corner.
Above: Olivia Wood (facing camera) scorer of the winning goal. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Perth looked to respond, and Ruby Marshall linked with Epril Nossent along the right to feed Lincoln, but Carroll cleared.
Penalty box entries for The Azzurri were now that bit fewer and further between as RedStar’s ascendancy was aided by the added intensity of their high press which was trying to force Perth into errors and reduce the impact that Lincoln could have on the game, as they made it exceptionally tough for the NPLW WA’s top scorer to make an impact on the game, which remained at 1-0 as the half-time whistle blew.
The Azzurri conjured up the first attacking opportunity of the second half with six minutes played. Cassidy set Lincoln free along the right to win a corner which was cleared by Anderson at the near post.
Above: Perth RedStar goalkeeper Gabby Dal Busco gathers at the feet of Perth SC attacker Ella Lincoln. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
From here RedStar looked to turn the screw further as their game management made it increasingly harder for Perth to force Gabby Dal Busco into making any saves. Indeed, Carlos Vega Mena’s side came close with 54 minutes played as Jayna Ridley, on the left, fed Kagami ahead of her in a central position outside of the box. The Japanese star lifted a ball through for Wood who saw her shot roll just wide of the right hand post.
Whilst RedStar had the possession and territory at this stage, they were finding it tough to break through a resolute Azzurri back line, and Stacey Cavill had very few shots herself to save.
Above: Sam Mathers looks to break through yesterday for Perth SC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Into the final 20 minutes, and Perth upped the pace and passing crispness. Lincoln went on a mazy run, beating four red shirts that took her from the midfield to the edge of the box to find Wainwright before RedStar cleared.
Shortly afterwards, Grace Johnston threaded a beautifully weighted pass in for Lincoln to run onto. The attacker turned and shot, but Emily Dunn blocked.
Above: Caitlin Doeglas (red shirt) and Nadia Harvey battle it out yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
There was one final half chance for the Azzurri to force extra time three minutes into stoppage time. Cassidy found Matilda Bohm to feed Lincoln at the back post, the attacker got a touch, but was unable to get a shot away, and a combination of Dal Busco and Andreia Teixeira got the ball away inside the six-yard box.
This was a superb achievement for Perth RedStar. History shows that the Finalist who are forced to play an extra game in midweek to qualify for the Grand Final are more often than not on the receiving end of a heavy defeat. But Carlos Vega Mena’s side once more stood strong when they needed to.
Above: Perth RedStar lift the Top Four Cup. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Whilst they have been challenged harder and suffered more defeats across the season and Top Four Cup than in previous years, they have still come out on top to win three of the four pieces of silverware available in 2024.
Perth SC and the rest of the chasing pack are getting closer – but RedStar end the year still with the upper hand.
More of Rob Lizzi’s photos from the Sam Kerr Football Centre
by Tara Murray for Impetus at Kingsmeadow Stadium (21/09/24)
Above: Kingsmeadow awaiting the WSL opener Photo: ChelseaFCW on X
Johanna Rytting Kaneryd scored in the 36th minute to secure the first win of the season for Chelsea in a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Kingsmeadow.
Chelsea initiated the game applying high pressure from the whistle. However, Aston Villa showed great strength in their defensive tactics as while Chelsea made runs along the wings Villa were able to fend them off by keeping play pressed out to the sides and hindering Chelsea’s progression towards the box with the Blues struggling to create a shot on goal as a result.
Throughout the match, both teams struggled to create strong opportunities on goal. For Chelsea, this resulted from the constant high pressure they were placed under once they were able to enter the final third. Aston Villa utilised their physicality in a very efficient and productive way as they worked to block off potential passing angles while sliding in and prying the ball away from the feet of the Chelsea attackers. Through these tactics, Villa were able to deflect Chelsea’s high pressure regaining possession and driving play out of their box.
Despite the split of possession being fairly even, early in the game Villa spent most of the time in which they possessed the ball playing it back through their own half, the visitors seemed unable to progress past the middle of the pitch losing possession to the powerful Chelsea backline duo of Bronze and Bright. In the first half, Villa seemed to lack the creativity and variations in passing patterns needed to progress further down the pitch. They focused on moving down the centre channels of the pitch where there was a high concentration of Chelsea players preventing their progression, in order to have achieved more success Villa could have utilised the wings of the pitch and introduced more creative passing patterns to create spaces and opportunities for progressive movement.
As the game progressed both teams experienced difficulties in maintaining possession beyond the halfway line typically losing the ball just after entering the opposition half. After spotting these difficulties Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton adjusted her play and began to utilise long balls forward when play came out from the back. This tactical adjustment from Hampton opened up the game, allowing more forward play as the Blues were able to follow the ball out into spaces nearer to the box giving them more time on the ball when they did receive it and giving them more options with where to take the play.
The sole goal of the game came from Chelsea’s number 19, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd in the 36th minute. Kaneryd’s goal was a result of utilising speed, strength and technique she cut across the top of the box, away from the congregation of players on one side of the pitch and then dragged the ball behind herself onto her left foot where she powered it into the far side of the goal. This breakaway moment by Kaneryd demonstrated the importance of space within this game, where the pressure had been high and constant, Kaneryd created a split second of emptiness resulting in a spectacular finish. This piece of play highlights how important space and time were within this dynamic game.
Above: JRK celebrates her goal with Lucy Bronze. Photo: ChelseaFCW on X
Towards the end of the second half, Villa began to create more opportunities within the attacking third however, Chelsea’s work rate led to them struggling to produce something before pressure from the Blues forced them off the ball. As the game drew to a close Villa had numerous opportunities from dead-ball situations which had they been able to capitalise on could have made them even with the defending champions. Villa struggled to be first to the ball with Chelsea just edging them out to gain the vital first touch. These moments were vital as the final minutes drained from the clock and these set pieces could have been the thing to offer Villa some points from this match-up. The importance of these set pieces was proven in the final moments where a hail-mary corner headed towards the Chelsea goal by Villa goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo almost set Villa level but just deflected off of Hampton’s fingertips.
The two teams felt like a surprisingly even match-up during this game which had the possibility to go either way, however, the beautiful breakaway by Kaneryd set Chelsea apart and the Blues emerged victorious.
Above: (Right to left) – Jada Whyman (2024 IFW patron), John Moriarty, Miley Shipp (Impetus supported Football JMF scholar), and Ros Moriarty) pictured during last year’s Indigenous Football Week. Photo supplied to Impetus by: John Moriarty Football.
Impetus‘ charity partner John Moriarty Football will be holding their annual Indigenous Football Week (IFW) next week.
Held from 23rd to 29th September, the week will unite the football community to recognise the power of football to change the lives of Australia’s most vulnerable children and youth.
Indigenous Football Week (IFW), a John Moriarty Football (JMF) initiative supported by A-Leagues and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), will include the annual Moriarty Cup, Australia’s premier charity football tournament which raises money for the continued delivery of JMF.
Held at Sydney’s iconic Allianz Stadium, the 2024 Moriarty Cup will see 14 teams from some of Australia’s best-known companies play for their chance at football glory while making a difference to the lives of Indigenous children and youth in remote and regional Australia.
The theme for Indigenous Football Week 2024 is ‘Breaking Barriers’. This theme is inspired by the personal journey of JMF’s co-founder and first Indigenous Socceroo, Yanyuwa man John Moriarty. His life was changed by football and education, and they led him out of poverty.
“I love seeing the big smiles on the children’s faces when I visit community and join them on the football oval. Those smiles tell a story of well-being, resilience, and opportunity. It’s why more children attend school on the days JMF runs its sessions. After our sessions in curriculum, they concentrate better and show more positive behaviours.
“More engagement with education, and improved mental and physical health – this is the power football has to change lives, just as it changed mine,” said Mr Moriarty.
Above: Wiradjuri/Yorta Yorta woman Jada Whyman, patron of John Moriarty Football’s 2024 Indigenous Football Week. Photo: Jacquie Manning.
Matilda, A-Leagues and AIK Fotboll Dam footballer, Wiradjuri/Yorta Yorta woman Jada Whyman has been named as 2024 Indigenous Football Week Patron.
“To achieve what I’ve done in football I’ve had to break many barriers. I am honoured to be a role model for JMF’s 2,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players in remote and regional Australia. Every day the children in these communities experience many barriers and disadvantages, and the gaps are only getting wider.
“JMF’s work is so important. Through football it creates life-changing opportunities so Aboriginal children and youth can determine their own futures,” said Ms Whyman.
A-Leagues and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) will support Indigenous Football Week and celebrate with football fans, players, and clubs.
A-Leagues Commissioner Nick Garcia commented, “The A-Leagues is excited to see another installment of the Indigenous Football Week, celebrating the ongoing contribution of Indigenous football players to the game. The power of football to influence impactful change is unlike any other and the A-Leagues is proud to support the John Moriarty Foundation.”
PFA Co-Chief Executive and Moriarty Foundation Board Member, Beau Busch said, “We are incredibly proud of JMF’s work in creating pathways for young Indigenous Australians. Its pioneering efforts have helped to improve the lives of many and helped to connect players in remote Australia into the A-Leagues, Australia’s national teams and global football.”
IFW and JMF are delivered by Moriarty Foundation, an Indigenous children’s charity that is building an Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children thrive. Its groundbreaking programs are closing gaps in education, health, wellbeing and employment so Indigenous children can have cultural, social and economic equality.
JMF’s sister program is Indi Kindi, an early learning program for children aged birth to five years which blends a unique Aboriginal approach to pedagogy with the Australian Early Years Learning Framework. Its young graduates are strong in culture, school-ready, and have a life-long base for learning.
Indi Footi is a key component of Indi Kindi that activates young brains through movement and develops basic football and motor skills, balance, and coordination in a fun, non-competitive environment.
Above: John Moriarty with JMF’s inaugural scholarship holder, Shadeene Evans. Photo supplied to Impetus by: John Moriarty Football.
In the lead-up to IFW24, JMF secured a training place for Indigenous (Marra) A-League footballer and JMF’s inaugural scholarship holder, Shadeene (Shay) Evans with Charlton Athletic Football Club in London.
The opportunity was part of Evans’ pre-season A-League Women’s preparations, having re-signed with Central Coast Mariners, following a stellar NPL season with the Northern Tigers.
“It was fantastic to have the opportunity to train at such a high level with an incredible team. My goal is to continue to push myself and work hard to be the best footballer I can be. To play for an elite women’s club overseas at some stage in my career would be a dream come true.”
“When you come from a community like Borroloola where life can be tough, opportunities like this seem impossible. John Moriarty Football changed my life and now I’m a role model for other Aboriginal kids to show them what’s possible,” added Evans.
Shay’s 31 August to 17 September training placement introduced her to an international full-time professional football environment, including individual technical development and high performance sports psych sessions. She also attended Charlton Athletic FC match days, and watched English Premier League fixtures in London.
Evans’ explosive talent was recognised at just 13 years of age when she was scouted by former Matildas coach Alen Stajcic. Originally from the remote community of Borroloola in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Northern Territory, she moved to Sydney as JMF’s inaugural Scholarship holder in the same year to commence secondary school at Westfields Sports High School.
In 2018 Evans debuted with Sydney FC and was also selected for the Young Matildas, which she later vice captained. Evans has since been developing her football with A-League clubs Adelaide United, Sydney FC, and Central Coast Mariners.
Above: Shadeene Evans, who has just completed time training with English Championship side Charlton Athletic. Photo supplied to Impetus by: John Moriarty Football.
“When you come from a community like Borroloola where life can be tough, opportunities like this seem impossible. John Moriarty Football changed my life and now I’m a role model for other Aboriginal kids to show them what’s possible,” said the Central Coast Mariners players.
Jemma White, Head of Women’s Football at English second-tier club Charlton Athletic, said: “Having Shadeene Evans join us for this training period has been a true pleasure. Her talent and determination are evident, and we’re excited to see her growth within our professional environment. Shadeene’s journey through Moriarty Foundation is an inspiring example of how giving people the right opportunities can help them to excel and we are grateful to be a small part of Shadeene’s journey.”
JMF Program Director Jamie Morriss, said, “Shay has had a strong 12 months. She is fit and she continues to improve. She had a number of stand out moments in the recent NPL season with the Northern Tigers and she’s looking forward to another good A-Leagues season with the Mariners.”
“Shay has broken countless barriers to get where she is today. From playing barefoot in the bush, she continues to impress with her speed, agility and instinctive style of playing. We are excited to see Shay continue to grow as a footballer. It’s opportunities like this that can really open up new possibilities; this is what JMF is all about,” Mr Morriss added.
IFW24 will also include a special Northern Territory Gala Day in Tennant Creek. A select team of JMF players from Borroloola will travel over nine hours to play against fellow JMF players in Tennant Creek in a friendly match.
“There is little opportunity for competitive football in remote Northern Territory, but the children that attend JMF love football and there is a great deal of talent. Opportunities like this are exciting for the children and also promote JMF’s key pillars of leadership, teamwork, resilience and respect,” said JMF Program Director, Jamie Morriss.
Perth RedStar’s Caitlin Doeglas talks to Ben Gilby about her footballing journey, her six years in the W-League and A-League Women with Perth Glory, and howshe feels the NPLW WA is growing(18/9/24).
Above: Caitlin Doeglas with the Tracey Wheeler Medal that she won as player of the match in the Night Series Grand Final win over Balcatta Etna earlier this year. Photo: Football West.
Caitlin Doeglas has been absolutely flying with Perth RedStar this season. Previously renowned for having a stellar six-season spell with Perth Glory in the A-League Women, the attacker has been outstanding in 2024 with goals, assists, and dogged teamwork, all done with a smile on her face.
Doeglas, who describes herself as “a positive attacking player. I love a high press and winning the ball high up the field to score,” caught the football bug at an early age.
Above: Caitlin Doeglas (left) battles for Perth Glory against Melbourne Victory’s Hayley Raso in 2016. Photo: Paul Kane.
“I started soccer when I was eight years old,” she said. “Mum tells me that I came home from primary school one day ranting about playing soccer at school and that I loved it. I had a summer sport already (Little Athletics) and needed a winter sport, so Mum signed me up for soccer at the local club, Ballajura Soccer Club.
“From there I never stopped playing. I played in the boys NPL League from Under 11 all the way to Under 18. For the majority of this time, I was the only girl in my team but also the league, which I never gave a second thought. In 2015, I was offered a W-League contract at Perth Glory, after being a train-on since the age of 15. I was ecstatic that all the hard work and perseverance paid off. I thoroughly enjoyed my six seasons.
“I was a part of two grand finals, scored the third fastest goal in A-League Women history, and in my last season there in 2021, I won the club’s Golden Boot jointly with the amazing Hana Lowry.
“In 2017, I was given the opportunity to play in Victoria for NPLW team Alamein FC. I relished the challenge of moving states and playing against the best players in Australia. Most recently, I moved to NSW to play in the NPLW for Northern Tigers. Once again, playing against the best players in Australia, I learned so much on and off the field. I am now playing for Perth RedStar, and to be a part of such an accomplished team is incredible.”
Above: Caitlin Doeglas shoots for Perth Glory against Newcastle Jets in 2021. Photo: Tom McCarthy.
The attacker has had to overcome major challenges throughout her career, including two ACL injuries. Doeglas reflected on the period, saying: “I tore my right ACL and LCL, and it took me 13 months of rehabilitation to return to soccer. In 2021, I tore my left ACL which took 14 months of rehabilitation. My most recent ACL reconstruction was devastating, as I knew what it took to come back better and stronger.
“Rehab was long, as well as, juggling my teaching career. I am very lucky to have an amazing support network around me. My mum, dad, sister, and boyfriend kept me sane throughout the tiresome rehab as well as, my Gym Jump Lift Run, who were with me every step of the rehab journey.”
Doeglas’ six seasons at Perth Glory saw her as part of two Grand Final squads – and scoring her first-ever goal for the club after just 14 seconds against Western Sydney Wanderers during the 2016/17 season. She looks back fondly on that achievement – “It’s my favourite memory from my time at Perth Glory… what makes it even better is that it was assisted by Sam Kerr. The biggest thing I took away from my time at Glory is to have fun. You play your best soccer when you are enjoying it. That’s all you can ever do, try your best and have fun.
“We got to play at NIB Stadium (now known as HBF Park) and to play in Perth’s biggest rectangular stadium was already amazing. I started in the midfield. The ball was played back to Kim Carroll and she kicked it up the field. Sam got the ball turned and I was running down the right side and she played me the ball, I remember kicking it so sweetly and it beat the WSW keeper. One of the best feelings an athlete can feel. I was so happy and to do it with that incredible team, at home, in front of my family and a home crowd made it even better.”
Above: Caitlin Doeglas in control for Perth Glory against Melbourne Victory in 2021. Photo: Tom McCarthy.
After time playing NPLW football in both Victoria and New South Wales, the attacker is back on home soil, part of the hugely successful Perth RedStar side who have already sealed a third successive NPLWA title this season.
“I am very grateful to be playing for Perth RedStar and thoroughly enjoying playing for them. We have such a great mix of youth and experience and I really believe that shows in our performances each weekend. The girls have been playing together for a while now and I have gelled with the group so well, it is exciting.”
Doeglas believes that long term the longer A-League Women season may benefit the NPLW WA in terms of encouraging local players to remain in their home state to play, rather than going East to search for what can be perceived to be a higher standard of play.
Above: Caitlin Doeglas drives through for Perth RedStar at Subiaco this season. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
“It is known that female players especially Glory players moved over East the past couple of seasons to play in NPLW NSW or NPLW VIC leagues, I did this too. However, now that A-League is a longer season, we see girls coming home or staying home to play. This is what has bought the quality of the league up. I also believe that the quality of girls coming through the youth system has improved drastically and there are some really exciting players, especially at RedStar.”
Above: Mia Bailey (right) and Sarah O’Donoghue. Photo: Heidelberg United
It is fair to say that Heidelberg United made some good decisions in the season that saw them crowned champions. One of those was the recruitment of Queensland star Mia Bailey.
The former Brisbane Roar goalkeeper’s arrival was a real coup for Heidelberg. At just 20 years of age, Bailey boasts A-League Women and Junior Matildas experience, along with an impressive personal highlight reel. Following her incredible form in both finals it is evident that the move to Victoria’s NPLW has turned out perfectly for club and player.
Initially, football was not the first thing on her mind.
“I just moved because I wanted to live in Melbourne, “ Bailey tells Impetus.
“I didn’t really think about like the footballing aspect.
“The club reached out to me and asked me if I wanted to come down.
“So I came down for a trial just to see how things were, and instantly at Heidelberg, I loved it all the girls.
“I love them so much. They’ve got such a good culture.”
“I just signed with them then and there.”
Bailey’s instincts were right, and she immediately felt at home at the other end of the country and in a new city.
“As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with so many different people and so many different families that make it feel so welcoming.
“We have dinner every Thursday night with the men’s team, and all the board members are there.
“It just creates such a good culture.”
Bailey is speaking to Impetus from the home of club administrator Helen Tyrikos. The iconic stalwart of the club and the newly arrived goalkeeper struck up an almost immediate rapport. It helped Bailey settle, and also get the best out of herself on the pitch.
“She’s been such a big part of my sort of move as well…she’s basically like a second mom to me.
“I love her so much. She’s another big part of why Heidelberg are such a good club! The things that she does for the whole club behind the scenes like nobody really sees it. But I’ve sort of had firsthand experience at what she does.
“She’s amazing.”
Bailey enjoyed the her new surroundings, but also liked the challenge of a different league. She describes the NPLW Victoria as a little faster than Queensland and with stronger teams at the bottom end of the table.
On the field she adapated quickly. The Melbourne winters provided a less welcome challenge for the Queenslander, but the club environment made up for that.
Bailey settled in as well as anybody could hope to, and captain Stephanie Galea was full of praise for the youngster. She was added to the team’s leadership group with no hesitation.
“Oh, she’s been amazing!” Galea said when asked about Bailey’s impact.
“She’s She’s just full of energy, and that energy just translates to the other players as well.
“She calls me grandma, but that’s okay. I’ll let it slide.
“She’s always positive making everyone laugh. And obviously she does a lot of work behind the scenes at the club as well
“She’s very vocal player, which I think helps as a goalkeeper.
“I see a lot of like younger keepers in the League, and I think having her experience and her voice has really helped us like so much just like leading from the back.
“I think that’s very important. Straight away I wanted her in my leadership team.
“Even though it was her first year I was like, this girl has what it takes to back me up.
“She’s one of my closest friends now, So I am very grateful that she came to the club.”
It was not an easy season for Heidelberg United. For the first half of the year, it looked as if they might have found themselves in a relegation battle, but they kept belief, found form and never lost confidence.
Bailey credits the win over eventual premiers Bulleen Lions as the turning point for the season, but observers were realising that they were becoming hard to score and defend against. Having a keeper capable of miracles like her double save in the semi final helps too.
With Heidelberg in control but only holding a 2-0 lead, Bulleen were growing into the game, and beginning to create repeated chances. When the ball fell to former Melbourne Victory attacker Tiffany Eliadis, a goal looked certain.
Bailey made not one but two close range saves within seconds. It was a sliding doors moment in a match that they would go on to win 4-2.
“Not a lot really goes through my mind,” says Bailey of those big moments.
“It’s sort of just reactions and it comes as it comes.
“In games like those, though you need to keep talking the whole time, because in the first half I felt like. I didn’t really do much to be honest, so I just got to keep myself switched on.”
As Galea said, Bailey is known for being vocal between the posts. She is not shy about directing her defence or trying to distract the opposition. For someone who appears to be a natural goalkeeper, it was a surprise to learn that she began her football journey as a striker.
She came to goalkeeping almost by accident after “mucking around” in goal at the Peninsula games while on trial for the state team. It was a good fit for the talented youngster and in the next few years she would represent her country and start in goal for Brisbane Roar.
“Yeah, I love it now,” she says of switching from outfield to goal.
“The pressure of it is a lot. But it’s also what makes it really fun, I guess.”
From “literally just mucking around” in goal at training to becoming an NPLW Champ with one of Victoria’s most storied clubs, Mia Bailey’s time in football so far has been eventful, and successful. She is an assured, composed but energetic presence as the last line of defence and a key reason that Heidelberg won this trophy.
For player and club, her arrival at Heidelberg United was one of the best signings of the 2024 season.
Above: Tom Sermanni is his role as Western Sydney’s women’s football advisor. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers.
The Matildas Asian Cup winning coach is back in the dugout at least for the time being. Tom Sermanni has been named interim manager of Australia for the October international window while Football Australia continues to finalize their search for Tony Gustavsson’s replacement.
Sermanni’s appointment comes as a surprise, but makes sense. He is perfect for the role and for the circumstances he will be walking in to.
The former Matildas boss is one of the most well regarded figures in the game and will be taking charge of the side for the third time (1994-1997 and 2005-2012).
He guided Australia to the quarter finals of the 2007 and 2011 World Cup’s and earned the nation’s first silverware since joining the AFC when The Matildas lifted the 2010 Asian Cup.
At club level, he has coached the Orlando Pride and been instrumental in the recent resurgence of the Western Sydney Wanderers.
However, his most important legacy has been in the players that he has brought through, and the faith he showed in youngsters that formed the foundation of the “golden generation.”
Caitlin Foord, Emily Van egmond, Kyah Simon and Sam Kerr all got their first caps under Sermanni. He not only gave the then prodigies a chance, but gave them responsibility.
Famously, he trusted Caitlin Foord to play at fullback on the legendary Brazillian Marta at the 2011 World Cup. At the age of just 16, it would be the making of the now iconic Matilda who would on to be named the best young player of the tournament by FIFA.
The 2010 Asian Cup was where a 16-year-old Sam Kerr was first unleased onto the world stage. The youngster scored against South Korea in the group stage and then in the final against North Korea. Likewise an 18 year old Kyah Simon was entrusted to win the game from the penalty spot and bring home the trophy for the first time in Australian history.
Sermanni is the right fit beyond decade old achievements. His name immediately inflects as feeling of good times and exciting possibilities, and right now, after three years of the most intense preparation the players will ever experience, a familiar, fondly remembered and highly respected face could be the best choice for a reset.
The smart money was on long time assistant Mel Andreatta. The current U23 coach will likely still be in contention for the senior job should she want it. But the benefit of Sermanni for a minimum of one window is that there is no pressure on him. He has nothing to prove and will probably not be auditioning for the full time role.
This means he will not be afraid to tinker or name a few surprises, but will also be familiar enough with the current squad without brining any baggage from the last eight years on board.
This is a good vibes appointment that gives Football Australia some room to breath and take their time. Sermanni’s record cannot really be criticised, and given that they have been clear it is an interim role, the usual stress around potential sackings that always seems to cloud both national teams should be entirely absent. His history at club and international level also shows a willingness to give youth a chance, should this tenure extend beyond the upcoming games expect him to experiment with some new faces.
Sermanni’s teams played some terrific football, set new standards, and provided some great memories. This is a circuit breaker from the tension of the last three years and should allow everyone to enjoy themselves again while nothing is at stake.
He is ideal for this team right now, and while the players will be looking to impress any incoming manager, he will simply look to maintain national team standards and ensure they can play at their best.
This is an excellent, low stakes, high reward appointment while Australia awaits a hugely important decision.
Ben Gilby reviews both of Sunday’s showdowns, with photography from Rob Lizzi at Perth RedStar v Perth SC (16/9/24).
Above: From left to right – Grace Johnston, Sam Mathers, and Ella Lincoln sprint forward to acclaim Charli Wainwright for hitting the winning penalty yesterdayat RedStar Arena. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Perth RedStar 0-0 Perth SC
After extra time, Perth SC won 3-2 on penalties.
The Azzurri are in the Top Four Cup Final after coming through a dramatic penalty shoot-out at RedStar Arena which saw Stacey Cavill make four superb saves.
Despite going down to defeat, RedStar deserve huge credit after having to play with 10 for so long after defender Abbey Woolley was sent off after being shown two yellow cards after 40 minutes. The two sides could not be separated after two hours of football, and the fourteen penalties produced only five goals with Perth SC claiming their place in the Final at their fourth attempt in the shoot-out.
Both head coaches made a single change to their starting lineups from last weekend’s State Cup Final where these sides faced off. Carlos Vega Mena brought in Renee Leota in place of Jayna Ridley for RedStar, with the Perth SC’s Danielle Brogan selecting Georgia Cassidy in midfield in place of Tijan McKenna.
Above: Momoko Sakairi (20) and Charli Wainwright tangle in yesterday’s game. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri had the lions share of possession, but they were also working exceptionally hard off the ball with Charli Wainwright playing a key role in neutralising RedStar midfielder Reina Kagami. Olivia Wood’s danger was also largely held at arm’s length for most of the 90 minutes.
In terms of the early attacking threat, Sam Mathers was gaining plenty of space on the left to make runs and look to connect. With a quarter of an hour played, Perth had their first half chance of the encounter as Ella Lincoln won a corner on the left. Daisy McAllister lifted a cross in which was headed wide by Baxter Thew.
Above: Sam Mathers (azure shirt) looks to hold off RedStar’s Quyen Doan yesterday afternoon. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Just after the half-hour mark, Lincoln was felled between Andreia Teixeira and Abbey Woolley to the left of centre, with the former looking to be the one who made the contact, and a yellow card was shown. The free kick from McCartney, 25 yards out flew wide of the right-hand post.
Five minutes from the break, McAllister was brought down by Woolley on the left, and the RedStar defender was shown a yellow card, and then to her teammates’ audible shock, a red – they clearly believed the first yellow had been shown to Teixeira – but the referee stated otherwise, and Woolley was off.
Above: Andreia Teixeira (red shirt) tackles Ella Lincoln in the first half yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Perth had the first chance of the second half when Lincoln held off her defender and threaded a perfectly weighted ball through to McAllister who laid a square pass behind the RedStar defence for Mathers, but her eventual shot was held by Dal Busco.
The home side need to be applauded for their excellent defence throughout the remainder of the game. They never looked like they were a player down. Vega Mena’s side worked their socks off and had the experience of Dal Busco to frustrate Perth when they were able to break through.
Above: Andreia Teixeira (red shirt) tackles Ella Lincoln in the first half yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
With six minutes to go, RedStar gained their only spell of concerted offensive pressure of the half. Wood was fouled on the left, just outside the box. Carroll curled a free-kick in that Thew headed off the line at the cost of the first of three successive corners taken by Caitlin Doeglas. The first came in for Quyen Doan to see her header deflected out for a repeat flag kick ahead forcing another that ended with Kagami’s effort cleared off the line. It remained goalless at the end of 90 minutes.
It was the Azzurri who returned to the ascendancy in the opening period of extra time. Mathers found Lincoln on the left who fired a powerful effort that Dal Busco pushed out for a corner. From this, the visitors earned a throw that Mathers directed to McAllister who chipped the ball over Momoko Sakairi. RedStar failed to get a firm clearance, and the ball fell awkwardly for McKenna on the edge of the box, which caused her shot to just clear the bar.
Above: Daisy McAllister (azure shirt) looks to escape from Andreia Teixeira yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
With four minutes of extra time remaining, Johnston was fouled by Sakairi on the right, parallel with the penalty spot. McCartney stepped up to deliver the set piece towards Lincoln, but the NPLW WA’s top scorer saw her low shot cleared. Dal Busco would also deny Lincoln in the closing stages after being found by Johnston.
In the dying embers, RedStar earned two half chances themselves – first for Wood whose effort went wide of the right-hand post, and then Doeglas, but Cavill gathered well.
Above: Perth RedStar goalkeeper Gabby Dal Busco, who had another fine afternoon, gathers ahead of Perth SC’s Ruby Marshall yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
So, the place in the Top Four Cup Final would be decided by penalties. If the two hours we had just watched weren’t dramatic enough, it was nothing compared with what would follow.
Sarah Carroll stepped up to take the first kick for the hosts – but was forced to wait for a long time to take it due to a combination of Cavill adjusting her gloves, and the top right-hand corner of the net needing repairing. To her credit, she fired home. Ella Lincoln strode forward for the Azzurri’s opener, but Dal Busco saved to the left of centre.
Cometh the hour, cometh Stacey Cavill. Whilst RedStar were frustrated by what they felt were her delaying tactics, she launched into a series of stunning saves – starting with denying Anderson’s effort to the right. McCartney levelled the scores at 1-1 dispatching her penalty high into the roof of the net. Next up for RedStar was Teixeira who sent her effort over the bar. Grace Johnston responded by coolly hitting a low effort into the left-hand corner.
Above: Stacey Cavill makes one of her four saves during the penalty shoot-out. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Cavill made it advantage Perth when she saved Wood’s shot to the left. It meant that Mathers could put her side into the final by scoring – but agonisingly the penalty went over the top. Doeglas was next up and calmly hit her effort down the centre to bring the scores back to 2-2. McKenna now had the chance to claim the win – but the Young Matilda saw her shot go wide of the left-hand post.
Into sudden death, and RedStar’s experienced Emily Dunn strode forward, but Cavill saved down the middle. Perth were one kick away from the Final again – but the drama was still not over as Thew hit her penalty over the top.
Kagami placed the ball in a bid to put the advantage in the home side’s favour – but yet again, Cavill saved at the right-hand post. Wainwright placed the ball to confidently strike home the winning penalty. The young midfielder had given the Azzurri their first-ever win over Perth RedStar in the Top Four Cup.
This was another huge achievement by Danielle Brogan’s team. They had to show so many qualities to earn the victory – game management, confidence, organisation, belief, and no little skill. Perth SC have earned a full week of preparation for a Top Four Cup Final for the first time.
More of Rob Lizzi’s photos from RedStar Arena yesterday
After Extra-Time, Balcatta Etna win 3-1 on penalties.
Above: Abbey Meakins, who hit the penalty that would eventually seal Balcatta’s victory – seen in action earlier in the season. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
Balcatta Etna overcame the sending off of star striker Lucy Jerram, and being pegged back within three minutes of taking the lead to run out winners after a penalty shoot out with Fremantle City.
Jerram was sent from the field after being given two yellow cards, but Pete Rakic’s side were able to overcome this set back to advance to within one match of their first ever Top Four Cup Final.
After a goalless first half, Balcatta hit the front with 72 minutes played. Liz Anton’s throw-in just inside her own half found Jamie-Lee Gale up the touchline. Her original low cross in was cut out by Annabelle Leek, only as far as Izzy Foletta to play a low shot in which was parried by Dayle Schroeder in the Freo goal into the path of the onrushing Liana Cook to fire home at the back post.
GOAL! 71:50
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Balcatta Etna FC W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs Fremantle City W match at Grindleford Reserve.
However, the home side’s lead would last for just three minutes. Abbey Green played a perfectly weighted pass from inside her own half out to Erin Siah on the left-hand touchline to square a low ball in for former Balcatta player Mia Yeo to send a shot between Rebecca Bennett’s legs and in.
GOAL! 74:40
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Fremantle City W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs Fremantle City W match at Grindleford Reserve.
And so to penalties. First up was Freo’s star defender Leek who saw her effort fly over the bar. It was a heartbreaking miss for a player who was absolutely outstanding once more throughout the encounter. Liz Anton, newly signed by Canberra United took advantage with the New Zealand international blasting her kick straight down the middle and into the net.
Alex Poad got Fremantle on the board as her low shot to the left beat Bennett. Faye Phillips responded by blasting her penalty – Schroeder got a hand to it, but there was more than enough power to ensure it went in for the hosts to lead 2-1.
Janice Kiama stepped up for the visitors, but her effort was smothered by Bennett, diving to the right. Abbey Meakins ensured that Balcatta profited yet again as she dispatched her kick with aplomb to ensure the home side continued their 100% record from the spot.
Catherine Adams placed the ball for Freo’s fourth kick, knowing she had to score to keep her team’s hopes alive. After a short run-up, Bennett dived to the right once more to save, and Balcatta had won.
Pete Rakic’s side now go on to face Perth RedStar in midweek for the right to take on Perth SC in the Top Four Cup Final at the Sam Kerr Football Centre next weekend.
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