Ahead of the upcoming 2024/2025 A-League Women’s Season, Newcastle Jets have announced the re-signing of their all-time leading appearance maker in the league with 153 appearances, club captain Cassidy Davis. Davis will be entering her 12th successive season with the Jets having made her debut with Newcastle back in 2013.
Above: Davis walks out for the Jets. Image: Newcastle Jets.
During Newcastle’s most recent A-League Women’s campaign where they made the Finals for the first time since the 2017/2018 season, Davis was crucial towards the Jets’ success throughout with how she played, her role and presence on the pitch and most importantly the valuable experience that she brought to the squad with the younger players that she played alongside with.
As well as that, she scored two goals, with her equaliser against Western Sydney Wanderers in Round Three voted as the Goal of the Season, and provided four assists in total.
The re-signing of Davis is a very important one in terms of her A-League experience for the Jets after the retirements of Alexandra Huynh and Gema Simon at the conclusion of the 2023/2024 season. Davis’ leadership qualities as a whole would be a massive positive for any club in the league to have. Having her for next season will significantly benefit the entire Newcastle squad in more ways than one.
As for her thoughts on staying with Newcastle Jets after the successful 2023/2024 season the team had, Davis said, “I’m extremely grateful and proud to be representing my hometown club for a 12th consecutive season. The on-field success we had last year and the passionate support we received from the local community, is a massive motivation for me to take this team to another level. I am eager to start the 2024/25 season and see where this new era takes us.”
Head Coach Ryan Campbell said, “It’s great to have Cass back for another season as she epitomises everything that we are about as a club. I look forward to her showing her leadership skills on and off the park to assist with such a young and positive team.”
Above: Tanika Lala, who was part of Perth Glory’s A-League Women squad last season. Photo: Perth Glory.
To further complement Impetus‘ coverage of the NPLW WA competition in 2024, we’ve assembled a group of people who are watching the competition’s matches especially closely to identify the competition’s most consistent players each month. For the third month of the season, Ben Gilby, Kelechi Osunwa, and Tommy Dolman produced a four-player long list from which June’s winner was selected.
The Shortlist – June 2024
Caitlin Doeglas (Perth RedStar):
Above: Caitlin Doeglas (black kit) in action for Perth RedStar at Subiaco this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
The former Perth Glory A-League Women attacker has had yet another outstanding month.
Doeglas continues to show not only her class, but an infectious enthusiasm about everything she does. Pacey runs down the flank, cutting inside, turning would-be markers, and firing home top-draw finishes – and doing so with a huge smile on her face.
The attacker continued to add to her tally of goals this month with a further five – two against Perth SC in round nine, another stunning brace against Murdoch University Melville in round 11, and one at UWA-Nedlands in between.
Yet it’s not just the goals that make Doeglas such a dangerous player for RedStar – it’s the vision, the experience, and sheer determination to stamp her professionalism on those around her.
Charli Wainwright (Perth SC):
Above: Charli Wainwright looks on for Perth SC at Balcatta Etna. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
It has been a month to savour for those who like to watch intelligent passers with exceptional vision, for whom Charli Wainwright is the epitome.
One of the competition’s most elegant ball players, at the age of 20, Wainwright shows composure beyond her years, reads the play incredibly well, and never gives up on a lost cause.
Two sublime moments of magic in the Round 11 game at home to UWA-Nedlands encapsulated Wainwright’s ability. First, a sumptuous double one-two with Daisy McAllister which supplied a goal for Jess Flannery, and then a centimetre perfect dissecting pass for Anika Stajic to run onto and fire home.
Wainwright is getting better and better as the season goes on and has the ability to be an A-League Women player of the near future
Cass Harvey (Subiaco):
Above: Cass Harvey has had a superb month for Subiaco. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
Whilst Subi’s results have been up and down during June, Cass Harvey has been consistently excellent.
With her wonderful footwork, visions, tricks, and flicks, she is a key component of the team’s push to secure a first-ever top-four spot.
Harvey has displayed her class in particular with two superb goals during the month. First, against UWA-Nedlands in round nine, she broke away, held off two defenders, to slot home. Then, a week later against Murdoch University Melville, Harvey was played into acres of space by Marianna Tabain and chipped a glorious curled finish over Manon Gebauer. She would also supply an assist later on after her rocket shot from the edge of the area cannoned back down from the bar for Stella Zampogna to nod home from close range.
Goals, vision, and ability – Harvey has them all in her locker.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month for June 2024:
Tanika Lala (Fremantle City)
Above: Tanika Lala during her time with Hyundai NTC. Photo: Fotoenzo/Football West.
It’s been a month of sensational performances by some of the competition’s star players – but all others have been eclipsed by the red-hot form of Tanika Lala.
The nugget from the Goldfields has been a major part of the Fremantle City side who have found their feet after a challenging start to the season and are now firmly ensconced inside the top four.
Whilst Lala’s stunning goal-scoring stats of seven in her last three games take the headlines, there’s far more than that to her game. Her partnerships with both Abbey Green and Clara Hoarau are beginning to become almost telepathic. Maybe not a surprise given the trio were in the Perth Glory squad during the A-League Women season together. This has now elevated the Kalgoorlie kid’s game in the NPLW WA to new heights.
The pace, power, and footwork have been there for quite a while – but everything else has now stepped up. It’s been a month to savour for fans of Tanika Lala.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month Award Winners 2024
Above: Western United and Bulls FC Academy player Avaani Prakash will join the Young Matildas. Photo: Western United.
The Young Matildas will continue preparations for the U20 World Cup with a series of friendlies against New Zealand, and Leah Blayney will use those games to test out some new faces ahead of the tournament.
The 25 players squad features a number of players who finished third at the U20 Asian Cup, with Jessika Nash, Kahli Johnson and Sasha Grove returning. Naomi Chinnama and Alexia Apostolakis will likely form the central defensive pairing while Chloe Lincoln looks set to continue in goal.
However, in attack and midfield, there have been a series of changes and raise eyebrows and excitement levels at the same time.
South Australian gun forward Emilia Murray has returned to the squad after a long term injury. The Adelaide United attacker was instrumental in qualifying for the Asian Cup with her long, driving runs to set up goals, and as a former youth team captain her recovery could not have been timed better.
Impressive athleticism by Emilia Murray. The connection between the Adelaide United striker and the right flank players had been excellent over the last 2 games pic.twitter.com/X9EB51poHp
Murray will join Peta Trimis, and Lara Gooch in an attack with enviable pace and craft. With the guile of Indiana and Jynaya Dos Santos along with Milly Broughton and Maddy Caspers. The goalscoring and creative options are as deep as they are potentially entertaining.
Georgia Cassidy has retained her place in the squad after the Asian Cup. The Perth Glory midfielder offers versatility across the centre of the park. She will be joined by Shay Hollman from that tournament but some new promising midfield options will be given an opportunity to book a ticket to Colombia.
Melbourne Victory’s Rosie Curtis has thrived in the Victorian NPLW this season. The tall but quick central midfielder has both a vast passing range and a recently obvious eye for goal. Likewise, Avaani Prakash is a dynamic and skilful attacking midfielder who plays beyond her years. After making her A-League Debut in 2024 for Western United, she has lit up the NSW NPLW with Bulls FC Academy and during recent Talent Development Scheme matches.
64:54: GOAL! Boroondara Eagles W score to make it BEFC 4 : ERSC 0.
Ella Buchanan, Emma Dundas, Alicia Woods and Tanaye Morris have also been included in the U20 side for the first time. The scouting for this camp has been nation wide, Leah Blayney is leaving no stone unturned to assemble a team to take on the world.
Interestingly, two of the last A-League season’s regular stars are absent. Alana Murphy was a frequent starter for Melbourne Victory and Daniela Galic was named Young Player of the Year for season 2023/24.
With both players starting most matches during Asian Cup qualifying and playing important roles during the tournament, it is unusual to not see their names on the team sheet. However, aside from the defence which is largely unchanged. Leah Blayney looks to be experimenting with midfield and attack to learn as much about every option ahead of the World Cup.
With Galic also on the verge of a move to an overseas club, this series of games offers an opportunity for others to break into the team, and there seems to be a real focus on pace and attacking potential in this squad.
A significant portion of this squad has been with us throughout this most current cycle. They have a demonstrated ability to perform on the international stage and are currently doing everything in their control to be selected for the upcoming Youth World Cup.
“Since the conclusion of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup, we have also been diligently identifying potential new players while bolstering the players in our Future Matildas programs domestically and abroad.
“Excitingly, we’ve been able to hold four Talent Development Scheme games nationwide, which assisted in spotting players with attributes that fit our playing style like Ella Buchanan, Rosie Curtis, Tanaye Morris and Alicia Woods.
“Each new player brings a different dimension to the existing squad providing technical diversity and individual qualities within the playing group.
“With two quality matches against Aotearoa New Zealand, our technical team is eager to witness greater fluency in our play as a unit.
“We’ll be looking to build on existing chemistry as well as further encourage our players to continue to play attacking positive entertain football. I want them to continue to play brave, positively and entertaining football.”
The first international against Aotearoa New Zealand on 11 July will be available live and free on Football Australia’s YouTube channel.
Australian Young Matildas squad:
Goalkeepers: Tahlia Franco, Chloe Lincoln,
Defenders: Alexia Apostolakis, Tegan Bertolissio, Ella Buchanan, Sasha Grove, Naomi Chinnama, Jessika Nash.
Midfielders: Maddy Caspers, Georgia Cassidy, Rosie Curtis, Indiana Dos Santos, Emma Dundas, Shay Hollman, Zara Kruger, Avaani Prakash, Alicia Woods.
Forwards: Milly Broughton, Jynaya Dos Santos, Lara Gooch, Milan Hammond, Kahli Johnson, Tanaye Morris, Emilia Murray, Peta Trimis.
Above:The Matildas gather after the announcement of the squad for the Olympic Games. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Australia will take on reigning Olympic gold medallists, Canada, in the south of Spain in a final international fixture before commencing their Paris 2024 Olympic Games campaign.
Australia and Canada will face off on Saturday 13th July 2024 at 9.00pm CEST (Sunday, 14th July at 5.00am AEST) in Marbella, where both nations will be situated for their pre-Olympic training camps.
Ahead of the Olympics competition, to assist in the latter stages of their preparations, the two countries will face each other under ‘B’ international conditions in a match that will not be open to the public.
Australian fans will be able to watch the action between the Matildas and Canada live and exclusive on Paramount+ thanks to Football Australia’s broadcast partner 10 Paramount.
Above: Matildas boss Tony Gustavsson who today stressed the importance of facing Canada ahead of the Olympics. Image: Football Australia.
Speaking about the choice of final opponents ahead of the Olympics, Matildas Head Coach Tony Gustavsson said: “Taking on a nation with the Olympic calibre of Canada will be a great analysis opportunity for us less than two weeks out from our opening match of Paris 2024.
“Canada are a unique opponent as not only does their squad feature world-class players, as a team they also have several attributes in terms of their playing style that mirrors what we will come up against in our group stage competitors.
“With the fixture taking place following two weeks of an intensive training block, the match will allow us to continue building and testing playing partnerships and firming new dimensions to our own game plan,” concluded Gustavsson.
Australia (current world number 12) and Canada (current world number eight) last met on 6th December 2023 with the Canadians recording a tight 1-0 victory at BC Place in Vancouver.
Above: Canada celebrate after scoring against Australia on 2nd December 2023. Photo: Canada Football.
The Matildas will open their Olympic Games 12 days later when they face current world number four, Germany, at Stade Velodrome, Marseille on 25th July 2024 (7.00pm local).
Above: Kurea Okino celebrates her third goal against The Essendon Royals
Essendon Royals are one of the most impressive and in-form sides this season. They currently sit second on the ladder, have recruited nearly perfectly, and are the only side to beat both the reigning premiers and champions from last season.
In short, they are hard to beat. However, all things are possible with Kurea Okino. The Japanese forward had her best game since rejoining Boroondara following a season at Melbourne Victory, and what that means is goals. Lots of them.
The game was ultimately decided early. Okino struck first in the fourth minute and then one more almost directly from the following kickoff. Royals goalkeeper Beth Mason-Jones was taken by surprise by both exquisitely struck efforts. the first was unsaveable, the second was through a crowd of players.
When Anais Josefski lofted the ball into the area from the right flank, Okino still had plenty to do to score the opener. She was being tightly marked, but hit the ball on the half volley to give Boroondara the perfect start.
The second was another terrific effort. Okino controlled the dropping ball with her back to goal and swivelled to shoot. The ball flew past Mason-Jones and into the corner of the net. The swerve on the ball and the power of the shot made it difficult to save, but Essendon would have been disappointed to concede twice in two minutes to say the least.
At 2-0, the contest was still alive, and Essendon are not short of firepower themselves. But Gabrielle Hollar scored a third on the stroke of half time to make the already steep hill to climb look insurmountable.
A free kick was floated in from the right by Hayley Geurts and the ball could not have been more perfectly placed. Hollar leapt at the far post to nod home her 16th of the season, and keep her firmly in the lead for the Golden Boot.
Another set piece resulted in the fourth. Geurts’s brilliant free-kick crashed off the crossbar, but midfielder Rosie Curtis reacted first with a headed rebound.
Okino wrapped up the scoring in the 74th minute to bring up her hatrick. A rapid passing move from the back saw Boroondara sweep forward and the final ball was collected by Okino. The Gold Medal holder cruised around the goalkeeper and defender and despite the tight angle, she hooked it back into the net to complete the scoring for the night.
At 5-0, this was a game where everything went right for one side and nothing for the other. Boroondara looked sharp and confident in the ball movement. Players looked in sync as they overlapped and cut inboard, rarely occupying the same place. For the final goal in particular it was dizzying to watch, and must have been a torment to play against.
Essendon looked unusually apprehensive by contrast. They struggled to maintain possession and it was an overall uncharacteristic performance from the league’s second placed team.
The Royals will look to bounce back next week against the surging South Melbourne, while Boroondara will look to continue this momentum with a visit to Heidelberg.
Ben Gilby and Ava-Marianne Elliott provide a full review of this weekend’s action along with photography from Rob Lizzi and Denyse McCulloch (1/7/24).
Above: Subiaco (white) and Balcatta Etna contest possession at Rosalie Park yesterday. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
Game of the week
Fremantle City 3-2 Perth RedStar
by Ava-Marianne Elliott
Fremantle City extended their unbeaten run to five games with a superb victory over champions Perth RedStar at Hilton Park.
In a thrilling encounter between the two sides, Tanika Lala grabbed a hat-trick to increase her own superb run of form to seven goals in three games, as RedStar fell to a second defeat in their last four matches.
In the opening minutes of the fixture, the league leaders broke out strongly, but Freo remained cool under the advancing pressure. The hosts quickly resettled and took control.
In the eight minute, Fremantle created their first big chance of the half. The frontline of Lala, Alex Poad, and Abbey Green worked superbly to storm forward and bypass the RedStar defence. Lala’s cross to Green evaded Abbey Woolley, and Gabby Dal Busco was forced to ground to get a glove to the ball, putting it out of play for a Freo corner.
Despite the visitors’ efforts to keep the ball out of their own half, Fremantle struck. Green’s long-range free-kick connected perfectly with the awaiting Lala, who inevitably headed the ball into the back of the net.
GOAL! 10:11
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Fremantle City W in the Fremantle City W vs Perth Redstar W match at Hilton Park.
The hosts kept up their relentless pace with RedStar finding few chances to source an equaliser. Lala came close to securing a second in the 16th minute, but the shot was fired wide.
The competitive battle amped up further when the port city side built up on the counter, and Dal Busco was forced to come off her line to meet an advancing Sophie Meaden. Lala was there ready to pounce on the rebound, however, her shot was just wide of the post.
RedStar looked to get a foothold on the game and Reina Kagami came close. Her shot forced Dayle Schroeder down to make a save, with the Freo shot-stopper putting the rebound out for a corner.
From the set piece opportunity, Carlos Vega Mena’s side capitalised. Although the initial shot at goal missed the mark, Renee Leota was there to fire the ball into the back of the net, securing the equaliser to pull her side back into the game.
However, as is always the case, how you respond to concerning against RedStar is the key to the development of the match. To Freo’s credit, they wasted no time in regaining control. In the 30th minute, it was Lala again who made a run into the RedStar box, bypassing Dal Busco and securing a brace when she slotted the ball calmly into the net.
GOAL! 29:58
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Fremantle City W in the Fremantle City W vs Perth Redstar W match at Hilton Park.
Back came RedStar, ramping up the intensity, searching for an equaliser yet again. Olivia Wood capitalised on the mistakes of the Freo defence, cutting in and stealing the ball during a sequence of back passes. Much to Wood’s dismay, her shot just flew over the bar.
Fremantle continued to press and cause problems for the RedStar defence for the remainder of the half. They kept up the intensity, with several chances just missing the target and sparing the away side an even heftier task in the second half.
The second half opened dramatically, with Fremantle conceding a penalty just three minutes in after shouts for a handball. Perth RedStar captain Sarah Carroll stepped up to take the kick, but Schroeder anticipated the shot and made an incredible save to keep her side in front. In quick succession, she made another before steering the ball clear of danger.
RedStar continued to dominate for the first ten minutes of the half, with Freo grasping few chances to make a breakthrough of their own. Still, the home side were working particularly well and looking comfortable when defending the ongoing attacking threat.
Yet, one mistake from Freo when making a back pass allowed the reigning champions to capitalise. Jayna Ridley intercepted a pass with free space, and expertly slotted the ball past Schroeder. It was back to 2-2 – and normally the tale is that RedStar go on to win…
Fremantle had a good spell in the opposition half, however, nothing was able to come from their efforts after Clara Hoarau’s shot went over the bar. RedStar attempted to break out on the counter, but Maya Spatafore was there to keep the threat at bay.
The play was relatively even until disaster struck for RedStar in the 76th minute. After working so hard to catch up and recover a point, they conceded a penalty after a scramble in the box. It was again Lala who stepped up and sent the kick perfectly into the bottom left side of the goal to secure her hat-trick.
RedStar pursued a third equaliser relentlessly, but Freo were smart with their defending and managed to keep their lead. After four minutes of additional time and some stellar intense defending, the whistle sounded, officially securing Fremantle’s win and making a dent in the league leaders’ pursuit for another title.
Above: UWA-Nedlands’ Emily Dinsdale, scorer of her side’s first goal at Murdoch University Melville yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: UWA-Nedlands.
UWA-Nedlands held off a dogged display from Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) to win this vital encounter between the sides who hold the bottom two places on the ladder.
All eyes before kick-off at Besteam Stadium were on Western Australian footballing icon Ella Mastrantonio, who was making her return to the NPLW WA having signed for Steve Atkins’ side during the week.
However, it was UWA-Nedlands who got jump on the home side to build a two-goal advantage.
The visitors hit the front with 33 minutes on the clock. An excellent pass and move build-up allowed UWA-Nedlands to carve their way through the MUM FC midfield and resulted in Michaela Thawley gaining possession centrally, around 30 yards out. The American slotted a low ball through, and Emily Dinsdale took advantage of hesitancy in the home defence to slot home from just inside the box.
GOAL! 46:36
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for UWA Nedlands FC W in the MUM FC W vs UWA Nedlands FC W match at Besteam Stadium at Murdoch University.
UWA-Nedlands doubled their advantage less than two minutes after the break as more excellent approach play – this time along the left ended with Thawley curling a shot from the right-hand edge of the box which MUM FC goalkeeper Manon Gebauer could only palm out into the path of Samara Riches whose follow up effort Gebauer helped onto the bar, but the ball fell perfectly for Andrea Preiato to head home from almost on the goal line.
Ten minutes into the second period, the home side grabbed a foothold in the game as Mastrantonio lofted a perfectly weighted ball from her own half through for Ellis Glanfield to run onto. She held off defender Mackenzie Rastatter and the ball rolled on through beating keeper Anna Watkins who had come out, allowing Glanfield the easiest of tasks to slot home.
However, the joy was shortlived for Murdoch University Melville, as less than two minutes later, the visitors were two ahead once more. Preiato won back possession in the centre of the park and released Thawley who found Dinsdale on the right flank. Her cross found Riches at the back post to hit a first-time low shot into the net.
MUM FC hit back a second time with 67 minutes on the clock when Sophie Patience lifted a first-time shot high into the net.
GOAL! 66:06
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for MUM FC W in the MUM FC W vs UWA Nedlands FC W match at Besteam Stadium at Murdoch University.
The hosts then had a potentially equalising goal disallowed for offside from Taylor Reid and the visitors held on for the three points.
This was a huge win for UWA-Nedlands and they now move off the bottom, three points above their opponents.
Subiaco 3-3 Balcatta Etna
Above: Frankie Murray-Hocking charges forward for Subiaco at home to Balcatta Etna yesterday. Photo: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
Subiaco came from two goals down twice to claim an excellent point against championship-chasing Balcatta Etna at Rosalie Park in Sunday’s late game.
With league leaders Perth RedStar having fallen to defeat at Fremantle City earlier in the day, Pete Rakic’s charges knew that they could have moved to within three points of the top-placed side with a game in hand with victory at Subi.
Indeed, it all started so well for the visitors as they hit the front with a quarter of an hour on the clock. Abbey Meakins received the ball to the right of centre around 25 yards out and exchanged passes with Kat Jukic before firing a shot that bounced in front of Subiaco keeper Isobel Robinson and fell perfectly for Jamie-Lee Gale to sweep home from close range.
Less than five minutes later the visitors increased their lead. Andrea Bulgaru’s cross from the right was aimed towards Liana Cook in the centre of the box. Shelby Cochran tried to clear and in the resulting scramble, Rachel Jarvis directed the ball into the net.
There were 23 minutes played when the home side hit back thanks to some sensational play from Stella Zampogna. Receiving the ball on the left-hand touchline from Tayna Campos, Zampogna with her back to goal, turned Bulgaru twice and played in a cross that curled its way over Rebecca Bennett and in.
However, a minute from the break, Balcatta restored their two-goal cushion. After excellent work from Jarvis on the left flank, Gale gained possession just outside the box and poked a pass square for Meakins, positioned centrally to crash a stunning first-time strike into the top of the net.
Above: Abbey Meakins in possession yesterday at Subiaco – the attacker scored another superb goal for Balcatta Etna. Photo: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
The see-saw nature of the encounter swung back the other way less than two minutes into the second period as they imposed a rapid press on the visitors, forcing them to play the ball back to Bennett in goal. The keeper’s attempted pass out fell kindly for Zampogna to run onto and square for Marianna Tabain outside her to side-foot home from just outside the six-yard box.
Then, with 51 minutes played, Subi grabbed a leveller with a moment of class from Tabain. Bennett’s pass out from the back was seized upon by Cochran on the right of centre, around 30 yards out. She found Greta Bailey inside her who in turn played a pass for Tabain just outside the box, she played a one-two of sorts with Cass Harvey that allowed the former A-League Women star to take a touch 25 yards out and lift a glorious shot into the net.
This was a major statement of character from Subiaco. To come back from an eight-goal mauling at Fremantle City last weekend and repair two-goal deficits here twice against Balcatta are achievements worthy of high praise.
Balcatta’s showdown at home to Perth RedStar next week was always going to be a huge game – but this result now makes it even bigger. Victory for them over the defending champions would put them just two points behind Carlos Vega Mena’s team with a game in hand. A defeat could prove an insurmountable hurdle to finishing the end of the regular season top of the ladder – but after a sensational weekend of results, the destination of silverware this season appears to be more open than ever before.
More of Denyse McCulloch’s photos from Subiaco v Balcatta Etna:
NPLW WA Ladder Round 12
Table From: Squadi.
ROUND 13 FIXTURES:
Saturday: Perth SC v Murdoch University Melville. Sunday: Balcatta Etna v Perth RedStar, Subiaco v Hyundai NTC, UWA-Nedlands v Fremantle City.
Melbourne City star Daniela Galic has bid farewell to the premiers for a move overseas. The reigning A-League Women Young Player of the Year departs the premiers with nine goals and nin assists over 39 games and after establishing herself as one of the competition’s best players by the age of 17.
Since joining City at the start of 2022/23 season, Galic was immediately trusted as one of Dario Vidosic’s key attacking players. The tricky but direct playmaker has been used through midfield and all three positions across the forward line.
Her enviable technique was on display in her first season, in her second she added pace and strength to the flicks turns and powerful shots. Although she is not yet at her full potential, the possibilities of what she could become are obvious to all her watch her.
Dubbed, “The Future of Australian Football,” by former Matilda Grace Gill and a fixture in the Young Matildas since the 2022 U20 World Cup, Galic has the ability to live up to the hype and her improvement over the past two seasons shows that she is not relying solely on her prodigious talent. This is a huge loss to the league, but massively exciting for Galic and Australian football.
In an interview with Impetus last season Galic credited her eye catching style to playing for fun with freinds and family. With both of her parents being footballers, this move feels like destiny, but it has been the result of hard work and a mentality beyond her years.
17 years old and already putting together a highlights package like this 🤯🎥
After becoming the second-youngest hat-trick scorer in A-Leagues history on the weekend, there's no doubt the future is seriously bright for Daniela Galic 🤩#ALWpic.twitter.com/lkWPPR7wN0
As a former playmaker himself, City coach Dario Vidosic was full of praise for Galic upon the announcement.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with Dani throughout the last two years and she thoroughly deserves this opportunity,” he told the media.
“She has an extremely bright future and with her technical ability, work ethic and love for the game, I’m certain she has what it takes to reach her full potential.
“I, along with the whole Club, wish her all the best with the move to Europe and I’m sure we will be welcoming her back to Melbourne as a Matilda before too long.”
Although Galic’s ability is the result of a lifetime in the game, Vidosic deserves some praise for his faith in the youngster. He was not hesitant to give her plenty of game time, despite her being just 16 when he took charge of the side. In his first job as a senior coach, the temptation must have been there to trust in senior or experienced players, but his faith in Galic was rewarded with goals and silverware.
Her departure leaves big shoes to fill at Melbourne City, which is a sign of the impact she made in just two seasons.
With Hannah Wilkinson already moving on, and Emina Ekic moving to the US Super League, what the attack will look like is one of the intriguing subplots heading into the next season.
Rhianna Pollicina and Leticia Mckenna are still two of the best attacking midfielders in the country and the likes of Caitlin Karic and Shelby McMahon have shown what they can do in flashes, but could relish the same regular opportunities that Galic thrived on.
Although City fans will be sad to see Galic move abroad, the future remains exciting at the Grand Final runners-up.
“I’ve absolutely loved my time here at Melbourne City,” said Galic.
“It’s been an amazing two years.
“It has been such an enjoyable squad to be a part of and I’ve learnt so much under Dario. I can’t thank him and the support staff enough for how much they’ve helped me both on and off the pitch.
“I’m really excited for what the future holds, and I wish everyone at the Club all the best.”
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Above: Maja Markovski races forward in the first minute against South Melbourne
Title chasing South Melbourne and Bulleen Lions play out an entertaining stalemate which saw both teams miss big chances to claim all three point.
Straight from the start, Maja Markovski made a telling impact. The inform player received the ball on the right flank from Rosie Rodger, turned her marker and propelled herself into the box. On arrival into the penalty area, she looked up and found Jess Young unmarked at the back post. With the simplest of finishes, Young’s third goal of the season gave the visiting side the lead in the opening minute.
South Melbourne’s response to the early setback was positive, keeping the ball firmly in Bulleen’s end of the pitch but did not create any clear-cut chances. Tayla Christensen’s speculative, deflective effort the closest the home side came to scoring during this period.
00:27: GOAL! Bulleen Lions W score to make it SMFC 0 : FCBL 1.
South’s Melbourne’s pressure did eventually pay off and it was Danielle Micallef who made Bulleen pay. After capitalising on a wayward Bulleen throw in on the half way line, the ball was worked up to Micallef. The captain then cut inside into the box and curled the ball past and outstretched Erin Hudson in the Bulleen goal. South Melbourne had their equaliser.
The parity between the two title chasing sides was almost compromised when Isabel Dehakiz header was cleared off the line. Despite the balance of play, Bulleen were keen to demonstrate the threat they can pose.
Micallef almost had her second goal of the game in the early stages of the second half but was denied by a smart save from Hudson. Francesca Iermano also tested Hudson but the goal keeper was able to comfortably gather her long-range attempt.
Despite South Melbourne’s continued dominance of possession, Bulleen manufactured the clearest chance of the second half up until that point. A dangerous free kick was flicked into the path of Alana Cortellino who struck the postfrom close range.
In response, South Melbourne were able to fashion a chance when Iermano’s cross was met by Emily Roach who lifted the ball over the crossbar. Roach then came even closer, forcing a tremendous save from Hudon at her near post, tipping the ball onto the bar.
South Melbourne struck the woodwork once again, Kiara Hronopoulus ambitious free kick had Hudson beaten did not have the frame of the goal beaten, rattling off the cross bar.
Bulleen were able to create more chances in the second half. Markovski had a shot blocked that on another day could have seen the ball loop into the net whilst also failing to make a sufficient connection from a headed effort.
On the balance of play, South Melbourne will be disappointed they did not come away with the victory. Their impressive seven game winning streak has come to an end and they will be looking to get back to winning ways next time out against fellow title chasers Essendon Royals away from home.
This is a big point for Bulleen. Being able to get a draw away from home whilst not playing at their fluent best is a characteristic of potential champions, especially against a title rival. They were able to maintain their four-point gap at the top of the table between themselves and South Melbourne. They next face Box Hill Untied at home
Report by Ben Gilby, photography from Rob Lizzi (29/6/24)
Above: Ella Lincoln (fourth from left), Perth SC’s hat-trick hero at Hyundai NTC celebrates her opening goal. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Perth SC produced a strong offensive display to overcome Hyundai NTC at the Sam Kerr Football Centre this afternoon with Ella Lincoln hitting a hat-trick in 12 second-half minutes.
The Azzurri were in charge throughout but were frustrated by a combination of the NTC rearguard and a lack of accuracy in front of goal until the final stages. Niamh Healy’s injury for the hosts with just over a quarter of an hour to go increased the amount of space for Perth’s build-up, and in the end, the quality that Danielle Brogan’s side has in the creative zones showed its true worth.
Above: A battle for possession today at the Sam Kerr Football Centre. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
The first half was largely played in the middle third and resembled a patient chess game of two sides looking to establish their passing and movement game on the other to find the breakthrough. It took until just before the quarter-hour mark for the first chance to arrive when Ella Lincoln’s corner in from the right was headed against the bar by Baxter Thew who rose comfortably above the NTC defence.
Within moments, the Azzurri broke through again, this time as Daisy McAllister took advantage of a misplaced pass by Violet Longmore just outside the box. The consistently impressive McAllister advanced to hit a shot that Megan Phillips held.
The teenage hosts were working hard during the opening half hour to reduce the amount of time that Perth’s key creative talents of Charli Wainwright and Georgia Cassidy had on the ball, and there would be a further challenge for Danielle Brogan’s side to overcome as Jess Flannery had to leave the action with injury.
Above: Jess Flannery (azure shirt) in action for Perth SC at Hyundai NTC before having to leave the field with an injury. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Healy displayed her burgeoning potential for the NTC once more as she was played in by Sakura Leong and showed lovely footwork and confidence to hit a curler from the left of centre which went just wide of the far post. Sophie Rennie also displayed excellent close control and confidence on the ball when able to advance for Ben Anderton’s teenage charges.
However, the challenges of trying to contain Perth were impacting the opportunities to build any attacking moves of their own. Allied to this as the half wore on was the Azzurri‘s growing patience on the ball. They were happy to spend time waiting to play the final killer ball with the consequence that much of their possession was within their own half or the middle third.
With 10 minutes remaining in the half, the visitors stepped up the intensity. McAllister found Lincoln who turned and played a low pass out to Sam Mathers to turn and hit a shot that Phillips repelled well in the NTC goal.
Above: Sam Mathers, scorer of Perth SC’s opening goal, in action today at the Sam Kerr Football Centre against Hyundai NTC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
However, just moments later Mathers had better luck. Sophia Papalia held off Rennie and threaded a perfectly weighted pass into Mathers right of centre who shot comfortably into the net.
The NTC had one chance to get on the scoresheet just before the break when Sam Brady was released by Nelli Johnson from the centre of the field. Brady turned Thew superbly, beat Ruby Marshall, and hit a shot just wide of the left-hand post. It would be the hosts’ last shot on goal for the afternoon.
Perth were back on the front foot from the opening whistle of the second period. They increased both the numbers and intensity of their press on the NTC, placing particular focus on the teenage side’s habit of playing out from the back. The pressure was instantly ramped up with regular turnover ball. Ben Anderton’s team would find it virtually impossible to get out of their own half for the rest of the game.
Above: It was another impressive performance from Charli Wainwright (left) for Perth SC today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Just before the hour mark, the visitors came close when Phillips’ clearance only went as far as Lincoln, who despite being under pressure from the NTC defence, laid off for McAllister who saw her shot saved by the home keeper.
The chances were racking up now. On the hour mark, the Azzurri appeared to be queuing up to score in the box but Wainwright, Lincoln, and Marshall all saw efforts repelled by the NTC defence. Thew, who hit the bar in the first half, would now see her header come back off the post from Cassidy’s corner. Papalia was then found on the edge of the area, right of centre, and let fly with a great effort that Phillips had to push over the top.
With 15 minutes to go, the NTC’s job got a whole heap harder as Healy had to leave the pitch with an injury. Having used all their subs, the teenage side would have to play out the remainder of the game with 10 players.
Above: Ella Lincoln (azure shirt, 9) slots home from the penalty spot for Perth SC at Hyundai NTC today. Photo supplied to Impetusby: Rob Lizzi.
Not long afterwards came the game-breaking moment. Wainwright, who was hugely impressive with her vision and ball-playing skills yet again, released Lincoln with a perfectly judged pass. The attacker entered the box and was brought down by Nelli Johnson. A penalty was awarded, but Johnson came off worse and had to leave the field for several minutes of treatment – a spell that reduced her team to nine players.
Lincoln, conversely, picked herself up, dusted herself down, placed the ball on the spot, and fired confidently into the right-hand side of the net.
Into the final three minutes, Perth were able to turn the screw and ensure their scoreboard tally more closely reflected their dominance. First, Marshall threaded a pass through from the midfield for Lincoln to run onto, see off Longmore, and slot home to increase the lead to three despite the assistant referee’s initial flag.
Above: Ella Lincoln (azure shirt) receives the ball from Ruby Marshall with her back to goal and with defenders around her. What happened next was a moment of real quality. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Then, moments afterwards, the icing on the cake came with a moment of brilliance from Lincoln. Wainwright danced her way into the area from the left to find Marshall on the edge of the six-yard box. Under pressure, she played a ball to Lincoln, behind her, just beyond the penalty spot. The Perth attacker had her back to goal, and two NTC defenders tight immediately behind her. However, this didn’t stop Lincoln. She turned brilliantly and lifted an exquisite finish high into the net. It was a fitting way to seal a hat-trick.
Whilst this was a comfortable win for Perth SC, they could and should have put the game to bed a lot sooner than they did – something the likes of Balcatta Etna and Perth RedStar would almost certainly punish them for failing to do. The NTC showed great discipline, organisation, and heart in the face of constant pressure from some of the NPLW WA’s best players – they will learn a lot from this.
More of Rob Lizzi’s photos of the game from the Sam Kerr Football Centre:
Teams: HYUNDAI NTC: Phillips, Longmore, N. Johnson, Cuthbert, Rennie, O’Halloran, Collins, Healy, Leong, E. Gaspar, Brady. Substitutes: J. Johnson, Clayton, C. Gaspar, Collinson, Brooks, McAuliffe.
Above: Jocelyn Prêcueur (left), Michele Kang (middle) and Kosovare Asllani (right) in the press conference marking the beginning of a new era for the club. Credit: Wing Chong
Under the leadership of new owner Michele Kang, London City Lionesses revealed a plethora of changes and announcements ahead of the 2024-2025 Barclay’s Women’s Championship season. It was a historic day for the club, marking the beginning of a new era for the Pride.
The 2023-2024 season was a tough one for the club, with the squad spending it fighting against relegation. After a huge effort and competitive fight to remain in the Championship, they managed to secure the eighth-place spot. Moving forwards and looking to the future, Kang addressed the changes in a conference that commenced on the 27th June.
Relocation
Arguably, the biggest change announced for the club was that they would be bidding farewell to Princes Park. London City has called the 4,100 capacity stadium in Dartford home since they were formed as an independent club in 2019. Now, with the club looking towards the future, they have taken their rightful place in London by moving to the Borough of Bromley.
Hayes Lane has been announced as the Pride’s new home stadium – sharing with Bromley FC. Alongside providing improved facilities for the squad, there is hope the relocation will encourage more people to fall in love with London City and the Women’s game.
“The installation of a hybrid-stitched pitch matches our aspirations to create the best environment for our players to showcase their talents and hopefully excite our fans with their performances on the pitch.” Natalie Curtis, the Director of Operations, added.
Last season, London City had a season full of record attendances, breaking previous turnouts across the Adobe Women’s FA Cup, Continental Tyres League Cup and the Barclay’s Women’s Championship fixtures. With Hayes Lane being able to house 5,000 supporters, the growth will hopefully be continuous.
Above: Michele Kang in yesterday’s conference. Credit: Wing Chong
Training Ground
Alongside the relocation of the squad’s home fixtures, the club have acquired sole ownership of their twenty three-acre training ground in Aylesford, with plans to convert it into a state of the art facility.
“In the short-term, we’re working inside the buildings to create space for the players to recuperate after training, have analysis meetings, and refuel with performance in mind. Having all of those things will help us make sure our players always feel like the priority.”
Following a first spell of renovations, the facility will be equipped with a world-class performance gym, new changing facilities, upgraded office suites, two high-quality grass training pitches and a full size artificial pitch.
“I’m committed to providing the best playing and training environments for my teams, and this actually marks the first of my three clubs to own their own training facilities. “I’m excited by our plans for our training ground, where we can truly train women as women.” commented Kang
The investment Kang has made in providing London City Lionesses with the equipment and space they need highlights the importance of giving female athletes access to top notch resources. The focus can shift to reaching full potential, offering the best environment for the players and staff to work in.
“Having exclusive use of the facility is absolutely everything because it means we can tailor everything – from gym equipment to changing rooms – so that they are designed specifically for female athletes, which means the First-Team and Academy will have access to everything they need”
Above: London City Lionesses new Head Coach, Jocelyn Prêcheur. Credit: Wing Chong
New Recruits
Last season, London City were subject to a string of managerial switches when head coach Carolina Morace and assistant Nicola Williams departed the club. Former WSL star Remi Allen temporarily replaced Morace, achieving four wins across six fixtures before leaving at the close of the season.
Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Jocelyn Prêcheur has been announced as the club’s new Head Coach, signing a three-year contract.
“Following an exhaustive global search, we were proud to appoint Jocelyn due to his proven track record in coaching at an elite level in the women’s game and successes in the 2023-24 season at Paris Saint-Germain, where he led the team to the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final.” Kang commented.
“Since I met Michele last season, I have admired her vision and dedication to the women’s game,” commented Prêcheur, who is now the sixth permanent Head Coach in London City Lionesses history. “The high-performance culture of winning she is building across her teams was a key part in my decision.”
As a proven winner with a broad range of experience across the elite level, there is hope that Prêcheur will be successful in leading the Pride to reaching new heights. With the club holding so much ambition, his mindset will undoubtedly be a huge driving factor in furthering the immense development we’ve already seen.
“In Jocelyn, we’ve found someone who matches our vision and we’re excited to have someone of his calibre aboard.”
Above: Kosovare Asllani announcing she would be making a move to the Championship side. Credit: Wing Chong
Prêcheur was not the only new addition to be revealed. Following the expiry of her contract at AC Milan, the club announced the massive signing of Swedish international Kosovare Asllani on a two- year deal.
Asllani’s achievements at the top flight in the Women’s game convey exactly what she adds to the London City squad. She brings with her a wealth of experience across the board, winning three national championships and two Damallsvenskan titles with Linköpings FC. Additionally, she played a role in helping Manchester City win their first ever Barclay’s Women’s Super League title years ago.
“I’m delighted to welcome Kosovare to the team.” Michele Kang, London City Lionesses owner, spoke on Asllani’s recruitment. “Her impressive achievements spanning international and club football speak volumes about her leadership and abilities, and we are all excited to see her in action at Hayes Lane this season.”
For Asllani, the driving factor that pulled her to the club was the investment in backing the women’s game and the vision that Kang has for the future.
We share the same values, vision and we’re on the same mission. I’ve been waiting for someone like Michele to come along. Someone that invests wholeheartedly in Women’s football. I’m all on board with the most action oriented woman in the business. 🤝 See you soon London! 💙 pic.twitter.com/gZ2Mz48iOL
“I am delighted to join London City Lionesses and look forward to contributing towards the team’s success. I am so excited by the team’s aspirations and can’t wait to meet my teammates and the fans.” Asllani commented.
With four new developments for the club already being announced so soon, the vision for the future is exciting, and under Kang’s ownership, it’s inevitable more advancements are to come.
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