Above:Sienna Dale is mobbed by teammates following her winning strike. Photo: Canberra United.
Sienna Dale’s 93rd minute goal has kept Canberra United in top spot after an entertaining battle with the Newcastle Jets at No. 2 Sportsground. The result was Canberra’s sixth consecutive game without a defeat and keeps them a point clear of Melbourne Victory with a game in hand.
Antoni Jagarinec’s side arrived in Newcastle following a hectic month of football. After winning three games in the space of a week against Victory, Sydney FC and Melbourne City, they escaped with a draw after two lightning delays and an equaliser at the death against Central Coast Mariners.
Canberra fans would have been hoping for a comparatively simple match, but their drama filled season continued with Dale’s last-minute heroics.
The Jets have had a more mixed December. An excellent 3-0 win over Brisbane Roar was followed up by a loss by a similar margin to Melbourne Victory. It was a game they deserved more from and Stephen Hoyle’s team needed to respond against the high-flying United to re-establish their finals credentials.
In an entertaining match, Newcastle sat relatively deep, with numbers around the edge of the box. They looked to break on the counterattack but could not find an easy outlet with Melina Ayres pushed deep by Canberra’s defence. Josie Allan was deployed in a playmaker role, and created Newcastle’s best opportunities while Claudia Cicco was excellent in defence.
Canberra United attacked with more regularity and intent, but could not find the final ball or space to get a good shot on goal. Their best chance came from a turnover after their press resulted in Emma Hawkins turning and shooting from close range, but the effort lacked the power or precision to beat Anna Leat in goal.
Allan continued to pull the strings in the attacking third for The Jets, and her clever pass found Ayres with space to shoot, but the Jets striker was uncharacteristically off target with her effort.
The second half, saw Canberra pin back Newcastle until the hour mark. Sasha Grove swapped flanks with Hayley Taylor-Young and found herself in more attacking positions from the left wing. Michelle Heyman became more involved as Canberra found another gear.
Newcastle eventually halted that momentum, and worked their way back into the match, but could not turn that into goals. Ayres embarked on a promising solo run, but her eventual shot was scuffed from outside of the area.
As full time approached, it began to feel like one of those draws that deserved to be more. Grove’s clever movement and tenacious work in the penalty box set up Heyman to score, but her shot went over the bar.
The Matildas striker turned supplier in the next play, her run and well-timed pass set up Mary Stanic-Floody with only Leat to beat, but her shot was well saved and needed more power.
Stanic-Floodt put that missed chance behind her quickly. There was no time to do anything else, and her next contribution helped decide the game. Her backheel flick sent fellow substitute Dale through in on goal, but she still had plenty to do.
The finish matched the buildup, and Dale defied the pressure of the moment to calmly loft the ball over the onrushing Leat to nestle under the bar and into the net.
The win cements Canberra’s newfound identity as a team that will not stop until the final whistle. For the second game in succession they have decided the result at the last possible moment, but it is not luck. They look calmer as the pressure rises, and seem confident that they have the players to turn the day their way.
Dale has established herself as a key player off the bench, capable of changing the game. Heyman could easily have had two against a lesser goalkeeper and Grove’s versatility in attack and midfield has made her a weapon no opponent has been able to contain so far.
They next face Western Sydney who will be smarting from a comprehensive loss to Adelaide United and needing to respond. Jagarinec’s team will now need to adjust from their customary position as underdogs into dealing with being favourites in most fixtures for the next phase of the season.
Newcastle will face a trip to Perth where they will face an improving and defensively strong Glory side. A result there could reignite their season.
What had looked like a comfortable afternoon for the Mariners turned into one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent A-League history. Central Coast had taken a commanding lead in the second half, but Melbourne Victory staged a remarkable fightback in stoppage time to secure a 3-3 draw at Polytec Stadium in their second meeting of the season.
Central Coast Mariners welcomed Melbourne Victory for the second meeting between the two sides this season, in a fixture carrying added significance after last year’s Grand Final that saw Victory fall in penalties.
After several high-intensity clashes in recent history, the rivalry between the two sides continues to grow into a notable one.
Melbourne Victory controlled possession in the opening minutes but struggled to turn that dominance into a clear-cut chance, often falling short with the final pass. Holly Furphy registered the game’s first attempt on goal, though her effort was comfortably gathered by Mariners goalkeeper Annalee Grove.
Central Coast began to grow into the contest midway through the half, with Izzy Gomez getting a shot away, but she was unable to keep her effort on target. Victory continued to push, and in the 20th minute Furphy came close again, firing narrowly over the crossbar with a well-struck effort.
At the other end, Annalise Rasmussen won a free kick in a promising position for the hosts, but the resulting set piece failed to trouble Victory keeper Courtney Newbon. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Peta Trimis produced a moment of brilliance, unleashing a stunning strike from around 30 yards that flew into the back of the net to give the home side the lead.
Victory responded and Furphy was again denied in agonising fashion, this time seeing her effort crash against the crossbar. Just before halftime, Rhianna Pollicina earned a free kick for the visitors. Alana Jančevski opted for a short pass to Pollicina, briefly catching the Mariners defence off guard, but the resulting effort only found the side netting.
The teams headed into the break with Central Coast Mariners holding a 1-0 lead.
Central Coast Mariners began the second half on the front foot, continuing to look dangerous in attack. Peta Trimis delivered a quality cross into the box early on, searching for Annalise Rasmussen, but the chance was cleared by the Victory defence.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 52nd minute when Rasmussen struck from the right side of goal, finishing confidently after Izzy Gomez provided her second assist of the match. The Mariners showed no signs of slowing, and Rasmussen was soon on the scoresheet again as Annabel Martin threaded a perfectly weighted ball through to the forward, who converted from close range to complete her brace and extend the lead to 3-0.
Melbourne Victory turned to their bench in search of a response, with substitute Ella O’Grady making an immediate impact. She tested the Mariners defence with a shot in the 76th minute that drifted just wide of the post. Victory continued to push forward, creating chances through O’Grady and Sofia Sakalis, but the breakthrough remained elusive.
That changed in the first minute of added time when Rhianna Pollicina fought her way through the defence and slotted the ball into the net to give the visitors hope. With four minutes remaining, Victory surged forward once more, and just two minutes later Sakalis found the back of the net to reduce the deficit to just one goal.
The late drama was not finished there. In a moment of brilliance, O’Grady produced a piece of magic to score from outside the box and bring the match level, completing a stunning added-time comeback for Victory, with all three of their goals coming after the 90th minute.
Above: Erin Healy (left) celebrates scoring her first goal with Emily Hodgson (right).Photo: via the A-Leagues.
Adelaide United returned to the winners list of the A League Women’s in a huge way, recording a statement win over the Western Sydney Wanderers 5-2.
Erin Healy led the way scoring a brace, and was assisted by Emily Hodgson, Paige Zois and Chelsea Dawber. Allyssa Ng-Saad and Chloe Berryhill also got on the board for the vanquished Wanderers, but it was not enough.
In the 10th minute of the game, Matilda McNamara found herself some space from around 22 yards out, and posed the first true test for the Western Sydney keeper, Shamiran Khamis. Khamis was able to collect confidently and keep the score level, Western Sydney absorbing the bulk of the pressure in the first ten minutes.
10 minutes later, a chance developed out of nothing from Tahlia Younis. A couple of aerial battles led to Younis picking up the ball in an advanced position and after getting the best of Zoe Tolland with the dribble, Melegh charged out which nearly cost the hosts a goal. However, Melegh’s efforts saw Younis end up directing a tame effort wide of the goal.
A moment later, Adelaide broke their goal drought with Hodsgon poaching a goal in the 6-yard box after a determined cross from an outstretched Adriana Taranto. The play was all set up from the creative work out wide from Emily Condon. This gave Adelaide a deserved lead for a team that was in control for most of the first half.
For Western Sydney, the key to attack was finding Yuan Cong in advanced positions and allowing her to hold up the play for Kim So-Eun and Berryhill to break forward and run in behind the Adelaide defence.
Taranto made a challenge in midfield in the 30th minute which set up Dawber in a decent position. Dawber confidently played it through to Healy who ran into the box from the final third. Healy’s effort was directed wide, but Adelaide’s hard work in the midfield was paying dividends with breakaway chances.
Condon again was the instigator for Adelaide’s second goal, this time receiving the ball on the right side of midfield and cutting the ball back to Zois on the edge of the box. After taking a touch, Zois was able to drive a beautifully struck curled effort into the top left corner to grab her first goal for Adelaide United.
Healy was determined in the first half, pressing forward along with Dawber and creating another half-chance in the 38th minute, driving a snapshot wide after winning the ball at the edge of the box.
McNamara regularly made runs forward, the Western Sydney midfield too occupied with Zois and the Taranto twins to close her down. In added time, McNamara found herself all the way forward to the edge of the box and struck an effort just off target.
The pressure from Adelaide did not relent, and they got their reward just before half time as Healy received the ball on the edge of the box, dribbled outside before cutting inside and drove an excellent shot at the near post to extend the lead to 3 goals at half-time.
At the beginning of the second half, Western Sydney substituted Ng-Saad onto the field and the change had an immediate impact as Ng-Saad was able to strike a speculative effort past Melegh who was out of position. While it was still a multiple goal deficit, the 17 year-old’s first A-League goal lit a match for the visitors.
The following 15 minutes were rather tensely contested.
Many a midfield battle was taking place with Adelaide trying to break down the defence controlling possession while Western Sydney pressed and tried to move with pace.
At 61 minutes, Dawber received a nice cross at the edge of the box after some determined work from Hodgson, but her strike was straight at Khamis who was able to collect confidently.
Dawber had another chance 4 minutes later after winning possession high up the pitch. Her shot was slightly hindered by Ella Buchanan and it ended up straight at Khamis once again, denying the forward her first goal of the season.
After the slip earlier in the half, the Reds continued to create chances and were rewarded again at 68 minutes. Dawber finally had her goal after some determined play from substitute Fiona Worts. Worts played the ball back to Dawber on the edge of the box who struck an excellent shot past Khamis to make it four goals for the Reds.
While they were down, the Wanderers certainly were not out after a great run forward from Danika Matos led to a low driven cross to Berryhill who converted from in close.
At 78 minutes, Younis got onto the ball in an advanced area and directed a low driven shot at goal. Melegh did very well to dive down to her right and collect the ball without spilling as the determined Wanderers were looking for any chance to get a goal back.
In the 86th minute, after a period of parity, Adelaide struck again after a terrific free kick cross from Zois found the head of Healy who doubled her goal total for the game, making the lead insurmountable for Western Sydney.
Adelaide scored more goals in this game than they had for the rest of the season, but now that it has started raining, the team will be hoping the goals pour in from here out after such an impressive goal scoring performance.
Western Sydney left the fixture with more questions than answers, but they can take solace in that they never gave up and were able to score a couple of goals against a team that were better on the day.
While this only moves Adelaide United to 10th on the table, it puts them within striking distance of the top six, only two points separating 6th and 10th place.
Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED (4-2-3-1): Melegh, E. Hodgson, Tonkin, McNamara, Tolland, M. Taranto, Zois, Condon, Healy, A. Taranto, Dawber. Substitutes: I. Hodgson, Jenkins, Makris, Morgan, Murray, Worts.
Above: Adelaide United’s Ella Tonkin talking to the media today. Image: Adelaide United.
Ella Tonkin believes that success for Adelaide United in Saturday’s battle of the bottom two against Western Sydney Wanderers at Coopers Stadium will be the springboard for a successful 2026.
“It’s a hugely important game this Saturday…we historically do quite well against them…we can be really successful, I think we’re honestly just one game away from breaking things open this season – we need just one positive successful performance and I think we’ll be off, and I reckon that will be this weekend.”
The 23-year-old defender believes that all the foundations were there to be seen for the South Australian side in last weekend’s loss at Perth Glory, but they just need to make the most of their attacking weapons to turn pressure into goals.
“The result was disappointing, but there are a lot of positives to take out of that game. I thought we were dominant, we had a lot of the ball, and some good passages (of play), it’s now just about turning that possession into meaningful attack and capitalising on our chances.
“A team is most successful when they are all on the same page, working towards the same thing – so we stick to the same processes and just sharpen up on them this week and hopefully the result will come on Saturday.”
Adelaide went into the game in Perth in recovery mode after being decimated by a flu bug that led to the postponement of their game with Melbourne City. It was a process that Tonkin admits was “really difficult” for the playing group.
“People (were) in and out of the team, (there were) smaller training sessions. It was difficult to manage…but we’re all healthy and back.”
After long term success and stability under Adrian Stenta’s stewardship, the Reds are coached by Theo Tsiounis this season, and Tonkin recognises that it’s been a positive change.
“I’ve learned a lot from Theo from a personal perspective. I’ve really grown as a player and I love the girls. We just need to get those results and this year will be perfect. I think we can start doing that from this weekend onwards
Above: Manchester City’s squad photo for the season Photo: @ManCityWomen on X
In the second of a number of interviews with WSL fans about their seasons and the January, Ben Tattoo speaks to Manchester City fan Cath Thurlow
Cath, welcome to Impetus. You’re a Manchester City fan. Could you tell me a bit more about your history with the club, please?
I was brought up watching men’s football, and I’ve been supporting Man City women for about three years now, because they are the nearest WSL team to where I am. So that’s why I first went, and the first game I went to was Chelsea versus Man City.
Emily Heaslip was the ref, I think she was quite new to refereeing at the time, and she sent off Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp and booked five other players, including the manager.
I think that almost radicalised me into being a Man City fan (laughs), because I was so angry that somebody dared to send off Alex Greenwood!
How were you feeling about the transfer business before this season began?
I was a bit worried that we hadn’t bought a lot (of players), but I have to say, (Iman) Beney is brilliant and Jade Rose has really got potential. Kerolin signed last season; I wasn’t very impressed at first but she’s just coming into her own and is looking very good.
I think some of this must be down to Andrée (Jeglertz), who I’m really impressed with. What he’s bringing out in the team is brilliant. You can see it from the signings, how well they’ve fitted in, and the team are flourishing. I think those three were particularly good signings.
I was gutted to lose Chloe Kelly, that made me very sad, but I know other Man City fans who don’t feel the same, so it is a difficult issue.
I do feel like we need someone to cover (Leila) Ouahabi at left back. She’s brilliant, she’s really solid, but she is getting on and if she gets injured, I don’t really like it when Alex (Greenwood) goes there. I know that she’s said that she’s happy to play there, but she’d prefer to be at center-back.
How do you feel the season has gone so far?
I’m really happy, because I feel the way I felt the season before last. It was joyful, the football, and it almost wasn’t about winning, it was about the way they played.
I would leave feeling inspired and happy, and then last season was such hard work. It’s just brilliant being able to watch such good football in such a safe environment, so I’m just so happy.
I love it because everyone’s developing. I love the way Bunny (Shaw) is dropping back and the way that Viv (Miedema) and Bunny are playing together.
The way that Laura Blinkilde-Brown is coming on is really positive, and I feel like that’s because she’s working with Yui Hasegawa, who is probably one of the best defensive midfielders. She is also stretching herself more.
Can you see anyone leaving in January?
I love Khiara Keating, but I would cope with her going on loan if she was going somewhere where she could get regular minutes, because she was so good in that first season (2023-2024).
She stepped up, time and again, and it’s a bit harsh that she isn’t our number one. I don’t want her to go, but I would like her to be playing every week, and if that meant going on loan, I might be able to cope with that (laughs).
Do you think City need to strengthen anywhere?
As I said earlier, I would like someone to come in as a backup for Leila (Ouahabi), and to rotate a bit, just to give her a break.
What I worry about is that we don’t have another out-and-out striker apart from Bunny.
We’ve got wingers who can play in that position, but I would like us to get a younger striker who could swap for Bunny up front.
Who would you like to see City sign?
You know, I feel like there aren’t many good strikers anymore, they’re all wingers/strikers, it’s interesting the way the game is – developing, even (Alessia) Russo.
I wouldn’t mind someone who is young, up-and-coming, like Michelle Agyemang, just to develop them really.
On the fan groups that I’m in there are people wanting Esme Morgan back, which I wouldn’t say no to. I think that would be great, but I don’t know if that’s a position that we’re desperate for right now.
Do you think that not playing in Europe has given Man City a big advantage over teams like Chelsea, for example?
It seems to have done, because last season, although we had some brilliant games, it did seem to cripple us, but I think we have a better squad and a better manager now.
So, I think we probably could have done it, but I’m happy, really, that we’re kind of recalibrating and rebuilding. Especially with a new manager, I guess it’s good to have that, (for) a season.
If you could take any player from any other team, money’s no object, they sign for you straight away, put them in the Manchester City blue. Who would it be?
Well, Michelle Agyemang, because like I said, I think she would work brilliantly with Bunny and Viv, and she is very creative and instinctive.
I would love to have someone as backup for Yui Hasegawa, someone to rotate on with. Which would probably have to be Keira Walsh.
Someone like Niamh Charles to provide another option at left back – that would be great. Or Katie McCabe – not that she’d ever leave Arsenal!
By Gethin Thurlow at Meadowbank for Impetus (23/12/25)
Above:Grant Scott with the SWPL title in May last year Photo: @Record_Sport on X
Celtic poached the three points and manager from Hibs in what was a blockbuster 24 hours between the clubs.
First of all, Maria McAneny scored an incredible goal directly from the opening kick-off, with Celtic eventually going on to win 2-1 and leave the hosts 13 points behind Glasgow City in their title defence. Then on Monday, Scottish football was rocked as they awoke to the news that Grant Scott had signed a contract with Celtic, as the Hibees received a compensation fee for the contract being broken.
Grant Scott leaves Hibs as a legend for bringing them a first title in almost 20 years, having had cup success in his earlier reign as boss too. Elena Sadiku was the manager to bring Celtic the SWPL title for the first time ever, but times have gone downhill since then and a victory in this game was not enough to save the Swedish manager.
Teams
Still struggling with injuries, Hibs at least had positive news in that Eilidh Adams started a second game in a row after her injury return, while Rachel Boyle started in midfield as she manages her second comeback of the season. Lauren Doran-Barr got another shout at right back ahead of Caley Gibb, while Scarlett Herron kept cementing her place at centre back as Linzi Taylor remains sidelined.
In what would be her final match, Elena Sadiku enjoyed the return of Scotland winger Maria McAneny, putting her straight into the starting lineup. Lisa Robertson and Momo Nakao played together in midfield, with Nakao allowed to press up and really challenge the Hibernian defence. Gallacher and Noonan started together as well, meaning the Irish striker gave Celtic a focal point at the top. Jenny Smith started on the right wing as Morgan Cross was benched.
The Action
The game began in absolutely incredible fashion, as Saoirse Noonan laid off the ball for Maria McAneny, who smashed it straight for the goal. I think everyone in the stadium expected it to fly over the bar, but Noa Schumacher started backtracking and suddenly there was a collective breath held. Despite the Americans’ best efforts, her hands could do nothing to stop the ball from dropping into the top of the goal.
Going behind before they even touched the ball, Hibs’ resilience was tested early on, especially within the context of them dropping points with a draw at Montrose last weekend. They were also challenged by a high Celtic press, with Amy Gallacher and Noonan both carrying the pressing capabilities of strikers, while Momo Nakao is always looking to nip the ball from opponents.
In the first half it was the Hibees on the ball for the majority, but not in the areas they’d like. The visitors had the bets of the chances, with Schumacher making a strong save from McAneny.
Hibs enjoyed success down the right, with winger Hannah Luke at left back, as Kirsty Morrison put up a few crosses. Most of these went to the back post and Rosie Livingstone couldn’t get a touch on them. The most threatening cross was along the ground, and on the stretch Eilidh Adams could only force it wide of the post.
Just before half time, Ciara Grant took a free kick which bounced around the edge of the box for a bit. Eventually it fell to Scarlett Herron, who sliced the ball home on her left foot. Having scored in the Dryburgh 7-0 and last week’s 1-1 draw at Montrose, the Irish centre back is Hibernians most reliable goal scorer at the moment.
The midfield battle was fiercely fought, with Lisa Robertson and Momo Nakao both being defensive minded with a great ability to win the ball back. Ellis Notley and Ciara Grant did the same job for Hibs, while Rachel Boyle played the role of disturber to the front three.
Lisa Rodgers wasn’t called into action too much, aside from a number of shots from outside the box. Schumacher however had a number of tough shots to face. None more so than a penalty from Noonan. Siobhan Hunter had barged into McAneny very late after a pass in the box, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Diving left, the American pushed the initial effort out, but Noonan was right on the rebound and Schumacher could do nothing about it.
They brought Caley Gibb and Tegan Bowie on in the wide areas, soon joined by Tiree Burchill, Hannah Jordan and Jess Fitzgerald as they pushed for an equaliser. Bowie saw a lot of the ball on the left-hand side, as Jordan, Grant and Notley all frantically played in the wingers whenever they could. Lisa Rodgers had to come and strongly claim a few high balls, which she did.
All was not plain sailing however as she struggled to pass out especially when under pressure. Once, she took aim at Kirsty Morrison, who’s long range strike flew past the post.
Looking to secure the win, Celtic turned to Chloe Craig, who made her return from a long-term ACL recovery just two weeks. On the left side of defence, she looked solid and nullified the threats from Burchill and Morrison where she could.
Morgan Cross replaced Noonan and played out of position as the striker. She missed an absolute howler as Hunter was caught on by McAneny on the halfway line, who then ran down and provided the unmarked winger with a perfect chance. It seemed like Cross has too much time to think about it and she ended up skying the chance.
Given the various contentious referee interventions/non-interventions and Celtic’s late time-wasting, there was a large spate of extra time. The whistle was eventually blown however with Hibs unable to find another goal, and in all likelihood the whistle was blown on their title defence.
Player of the Match Maria McAneny
Scoring one of the most audacious and quickest goals in the history of football, Scotland’s newest SWPL debutant was magical from the first (four) seconds in Edinburgh. The acknowledgement of her talent by Melissa Andreatta seems to have brought out extra confidence in McAneny. She was charging up and down that wing like she owned it today, and despite some great defending from Doran-Barr, she ultimately did own it.
Her pace, skill and power have always been there, but this year she’s added some more in-game reading and now can influence games throughout. Sunday’s game was no different, and it was not surprising at all that McAneny was the one to draw a foul for the penalty. Whenever Celtic needed that spark, they turned to her and she continually delivered.
Where this leaves the teams
Hibs suffered another blow in this horrible run of form. Having picked up just 2 points in the last four games, they’ve been outscored by Montrose (5), Partick Thistle (6) and Motherwell (3), as well as the other four professional teams. Injuries and a bad schedule have lined up at the worst possible time for them, and the title winning side has looked a shell of itself without Kathleen McGovern and Linzi Taylor.
Given Glasgow City’s victory later in the day, they are now 13 points clear of the Hibees. While the split does give opportunities for the table to change drastically, that gap is probably too much to close – especially with the Old Firm rivals and Hearts six points closer to City. Hannah Jordan looked good in her cameo, while Scarlett Herron continues to impress at both ends of the pitch, so there are at least some positives looking ahead to the future.
It feels like Hibs were able to accept that the title was gone, and they would take the buy-out money from Celtic and invest it to rebuild this squad. The transfer strategy of this summer was very much focused on bringing in young players, and they will continue to flourish over the next five years. With the entire winter break to find an adequate replacement, this is probably the best in-season time to lose a manager.
It was a massive win Celtic. Since beating Hearts on the opening day, they’d only taken one point off the other professional teams, so coming to Edinburgh and proving they were still at that level was so important for the Glasgow side.
The research was clearly done pre-game to know that Noa Schumacher would be vulnerable to a direct kick-off goal but actually pulling it off is another ball game. If the Ghirls can keep up this form heading into the split, with Rangers still developing under their new manager and questions over Hearts’ ability to sustain a title challenge, they could be the ones to give City a run for the SWPL title.
Grant Scott has experience winning trophies over his two runs at the reigning champions, as well as that glorious title win last year. Without a strong distinctive style of play, Scott will likely assess the squad and build it from that. Key in his plans should be Scotland defender Emma Lawton, McAneny, the dynamic midfielder Momo Nakao – who offers something slightly different than his Hibs players did.
Above: Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters talking to the media today. Image: Perth Glory
Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters is well aware of the challenge his side face in Sunday’s game at Melbourne City, but given that his players have gained two straight victories against teams who have dominated possession against them, he believes they are capable of extending their unbeaten run at AAMI Park.
Those victories against Adelaide United and Wellington Phoenix came with Glory coming out on top despite, at times having significantly less of the ball and territory. Peters recognised: “Adelaide are the second highest in the league for possession, so they are very good at retaining the ball, they’re just not converting it into goals.”
“In my opinion, Wellington are a very good side, and they showed that against Sydney. Those two teams, just because Glory beat them 1-0 doesn’t mean they’re bad sides. They’re good sides, and I think it puts us in good stead going into this game because I think it’s similar characteristics in terms of both those teams…want to dominate the ball, City certainly want to dominate the ball, they’re just a bit more fine tuned in certain areas.
“I’m just really proud of the players who have put us in a position where we can take this challenge on in a good mindset.
“It’s a good platform for us, but we can’t get too excited as we have lots of areas to improve in, and there’s a lot of football in front of us and City are a great challenge for us, and a team we respect highly, but we obviously can’t respect them too much.”
Perth’s focus for Sunday’s showdown will be on maintaining focus and making the bare minimum of mistakes on top of taking chances when they come.
“They (Melbourne City) are an incredible challenge. You always have that game in the back of your mind, particularly in that stadium (AAMI Park), so we’re going to have to be very, very good, both with the ball, and without the ball. (We have to) pay attention to their strengths, but also try and highlight ours.
Above: Emma Tovar in action at Sydney FC earlier this season – Stephen Peters hopes to see her back on the pitch this coming Sunday. Photo: Ryan Millar-Woods for Impetus.
“We just have to be good with our high press. I think it’s something we bring to the table and we’ve got to be competent once we win the football. We have no problem winning the football off teams, it’s just what we do with it from there. I think it’s a little bit of a confidence thing – once we see some tangible outcomes from that, I think we’ll grow from that,” the Glory boss said.
In terms of injury news, Peters is waiting for further details on defender Onyi Zogg, who missed Sunday’s win over Adelaide United.
“It was a precaution to keep her out of that (Adelaide United) game because she was feeling a that quad a little bit, so hopefully the scan comes back good, and that she’s available to play.”
Whilst Zogg joined fellow back liner Naomi Chinnama on the sidelines last weekend, a young locally produced defence featuring Tijan McKenna, Mischa Anderson, and Grace Johnston were impressive, perhaps not surprising given how long the trio have played together in the Western Australian scene, despite their tender years.
Peters also gave an update on captain Izzy Dalton and Emma Tovar’s niggles, stating, “Dalts is going to be an ongoing one, we’re just going to have to keep on looking after her.
“She doesn’t know how to tune it down, she just goes an a hundred miles an hour, which we love about her. Emma, I’m hoping she’s pulled up well. I spoke to her yesterday (Monday) and she feels like she’s pretty good.”
Above: Perth Glory’s Grace Johnston – who had another strong showing against Adelaide United. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Melbourne City celebrate after coming from behind to defeat cross town rivals Melbourne Victory. Photo: via A-Leagues.
Melbourne City have come from behind to defeat crosstown rivals Melbourne Victory 2-1 in a physical and at times fiery Melbourne Derby.
The Victory initially took the lead in the first half thanks to Rhianna Pollicina, but her goal was cancelled out by an own goal from Claudia Bunge before Holly McNamara found a late winner.
As any fan would expect in a Melbourne Derby, there was certainly plenty of action early as both teams tried to use particularly their respective left wings to work themselves into an attacking position. Defensively both teams were very switched on from the get go so it was not always easy for either side to get long, clean passes away.
Players like McNamara and Sofia Sakalis were trying to use their agile footwork to their benefit and navigate their way around the defences, but Rebekah Stott, Taylor Otto, Kayla Morrison and Bunge were proving too tough to navigate around.
Melbourne City did look closest to scoring in the first quarter of the match though, with some very well placed crosses from Danella Butrus and Alexia Apostolakis landing in some very dangerous areas in the box, but thankfully for Victory their defence held strong and was able to clear wave after wave of attack.
Leah Davidson went incredibly close to scoring about halfway through the first half, but an impressive save from Courtney Newbon ensured that it was not the opening goal of the match.
Leticia McKenna also tried a long range shot, but just like Davidson she too could not quite get the angles to work completely in her favour.
However, despite how on top City were, it was Victory who opened the scoring, and poetically it was Pollicina who scored against her old side after slipping the ball past Malena Mieres on an incredibly tight angle.
This goal really turned the game on its head, with Victory punishing City for its inability to finish despite its dominance in terms of time in the attacking third. City were unable to level before the half time break, so the ladders leaders took the upper hand into the half time break.
As the second half began and progressed, City were again the ones to do more of the attacking than Victory, and were eventually rewarded with the equalising goal. Aideen Keane was able to square the ball to in front of the goal, and unfortunately for Victory the ball then ricocheted off Bunge and into the back of the net.
City kept pushing hard for the winner, and with just over five minutes to go they found it through McNamara, who curled a shot beautifully from one corner of the box into the top box on the other side of the net.
Melbourne Victory kept pushing hard for a last minute equaliser and had several corners in the dying minutes but could not make any of them count.
Above: The Melbourne Derby. Image: Melbourne City.
By Alice de Koster-Kitto & Isabelle Campbell (22/12/2025)
Impetus’ Alice de Koster-Kitto and Isabelle Campbell preview Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory’s matchup with quotes from Michael Matricciani and Taylor Otto as well as Jeff Hopkins, Nicki Flanneryand Taylor Ray.
Melbourne City
By Alice de Koster-Kitto
Above: Matricciani speaks to the press. Image: Melbourne City.
Between sporadic fixtures and travel due to AFC Women’s Champions League matches, and their most recent match against Adelaide United being postponed due to an influenza outbreak, it’s been a somewhat unsettled start to the season for Melbourne City, having only played four league matches, in comparison to Melbourne Victory’s eight.
“That’s probably been the one thing, just the flow of league games, but it’s a big match, and what we have been able to do over the last eight or nine days is put a lot of load in conditioning sessions,” said head coach Michael Matricciani
Despite the unusual circumstances, Matricciani is confident that the squad has the capabilities to put their best foot forward and thrive on their perceived adversity during the Melbourne Derby.
“We’ve worked the girls extremely hard; we’re very prepared for this match,” he added
“We can’t focus on that. It’s out of our control. Obviously, we had the Champions League campaign as well, which we missed a couple of games.”
The highly anticipated derby will be City’s first time out at AAMI Park this season, and Matricciani believes that a massive home crowd, and the pressure of coming up against their most heated rival is exactly what the squad needs to get back on track, after a period of uncertainty “I think when we play at AAMI Park, it’s a different aura about it.”
Matricciani expressed his belief in the tactical advantage that a ground such as AAMI Park can bring to his City squad “A team like us that we like to dominate the ball and move the ball around to open up gaps in the opposition, it’s actually easier because it’s harder for the opposition to close the spaces and cover the distance of the ground.” he said, as he looks to capitalise on the teams signature dynamics.
Melbourne City defender Taylor Otto also commented on the squad’s possessive tactics and their focus on perfecting their play following recent losses, and bringing their best game into the derby. “I think we need to be able to close the spaces. We need to be cleaner on the ball. We need to be together more in the way that we’re playing and connecting,” said Otto. “I think for us, really, we know the standard we want to hold. We just have to go back to the drawing board and get back to that,” she added.
“It’s a stressful thing, having an invincible season. But we’ve all spoken about it like that’s a very difficult thing to do, and I don’t think any of us expected to do that again.” said Otto, reflecting on Melbourne City’s 2023/24 ‘invincible’ season, and the expectations to bounce back, as a derby win would be the perfect opportunity to regain that confidence following recent losses.
“I think we just need to believe in ourselves a bit more, have a little bit more confidence, and know the way that we can play in the way that we have played in the past few years,” added Otto
There are a number of essential players who will be left out of the City squad for Tuesday’s derby, with Shelby McMahon having taken a knock to the knee, and Laura Hughes recently undergoing knee surgery.
While Hughes and McMahon have both been instrumental in City’s successes this season, the depth within the squad should be well-equipped to put on the performance they are capable of, despite notable absences.
“We have depth, we have people that can play in different positions. We have all these things on our side. So I think really, we’re just trying to focus on ourselves one game at a time and getting the job done,” said Otto
The last time the two Melbourne sides went head to head, was in February of this year, with the battle ending in a 1-1 draw. The match was massively in favour of Victory after Rachel Lowe’s 5th minute strike, but a last minute goal from former City midfielder Mariana Speckmaier evened the score. Looking back at the clashes history, and the squads current form, it might be expected that Victory will come away with the win. However given the unprecedented circumstances of irregular fixtures, players in and out, and an inconsistent start to the season from both sides, the derby is ultimately anyone’s.
“I think it brings to the game. It’s why we love this. There are these big games, and I think the league is growing. The teams are getting progressively better. These games are getting more competitive. And yeah, you never know who’s gonna win. And I think it’s really great for us,” said Otto.
Melbourne Victory
By Isabelle Campbell
Above: Hopkins speaks to the press. Image: Melbourne Victory.
In contrast to Melbourne City’s disrupted schedule, Melbourne Victory enter the A-League Women’s Melbourne Derby with rhythm and momentum on their side, having played eight matches already this season, the most of any team in the league, and coming into the fixture off the back of consecutive wins.
Amid a busy festive period and with limited preparation time between matches, head coach Jeff Hopkins said the atmosphere within the Victory camp has remained upbeat.
“We’re happy. We’ve had a quick turnaround. We’ve had a couple of very light sessions, but very, very intense. And we had a great session this morning. Even wanted to ask to go in the gym afterwards, which just means for us, they’re feeling pretty energized. And we sent them home happy after Kris Kringle.”
With limited time on the training pitch between matches, Hopkins believes Victory’s recent form has allowed the squad to embrace the short schedule heading into the derby.
“We spoke about it last week and said a lot of it depends on how you’re going. We’re going very, very well. The team has moved forward in a lot of areas. So we’re just looking forward to playing.”
Victory’s strong recent form has also been driven by their attacking unit, with forward Nicki Flannery returning from injury and opening her account for the season in the win over Newcastle. She said the momentum built over the past two matches has been key.
“Obviously, the short turnaround is kind of good when you have great momentum. I feel the group is very positive after the two games, especially the one against Newcastle, we felt really dominant. So hopefully we can take that in tomorrow.”
Flannery also highlighted the contrast in preparation between the two sides, with City having played only four matches this season.
“I think, for them, it’s hard because they haven’t got this momentum that we’re fortunate to have this week. I think it’s difficult to prepare for a derby when you’ve got 10/14 days to prepare for it. It’s a lot of time to think about opposition, and how to prepare the bodies. Hopefully, if we just get in their face nice and early, they’ll be a bit worried.”
While Victory’s momentum has been evident, Hopkins remains clear on the challenge City will pose, noting their distinct style and attacking threats.
“You know what you’re going to get from City. They’re a team that likes to keep possession, likes to build from the back, and play through the thirds. They’ve got the ability with Holly McNamara up front, to go direct as well. So there’s always that threat there. I think they play in a way that we understand. We’ve played them a lot over the years.”
Despite City’s recent league loss to Canberra, their first in 651 days, Hopkins insists Victory’s focus remains inward.
“To be honest? It doesn’t bother me. This is the derby, we’re always up for the derby. It’s always a big game for us. How they react, we can’t really do anything about that. We can just react to it out on the field.”
One of Victory’s new signings this season, Taylor Ray, said the squad is still on the hunt for consistency, particularly with players returning from injury.
“I think that is the biggest thing for us. We want to build that consistency going throughout the season. I think it’s been a bit of a tough one, because we’ve had a lot of players coming in and out of the squad with injuries, myself included, some big names like Nicki Flannery as well.”
Ray also pointed to the importance of chemistry and communication within the group as a key focus moving forward.
“I think the biggest thing is taking on that reflection, you know, analyzing the game and just having honest communication, owning up and taking accountability of your mistakes is the first step to getting better.”
With squad depth improving, Hopkins confirmed another boost ahead of the derby, with Sienna Saveska set to likely make her Victory debut.
“Yes, Sienna is in the squad this week… She’s probably good enough to play 45 minutes at least. So she’ll be thereabouts. She’s in the squad.”
Offensively, Victory’s creativity has been flourishing in recent matches, with Flannery highlighting the form of her fellow forwards.
“Early on in the year, we struggled to find the back of the net and create really clear goal scoring chances. I think in the past three games in particular, we’ve had a lot of creativity up front, and that’s starting to gel really nice. [Holly] Furphy has been playing out of her skin. It’s really great to see that we’re creating a lot of goal scoring chances and completing them.”
The derby, though big for all players, will be a milestone for Rhianna Pollicina, who spent four seasons at City before signing with Victory this season. Hopkins spoke about her preparation and motivation ahead of facing her former club.
“I kind of sussed her out over the last few weeks, how much I can kind of stir the pot, but I don’t think I need to at the moment. She’s got her own motivations around playing City, and she’s also got some really good memories of the club, so I don’t want to jump in there and say too much that might go against kind of how she’s preparing for the game. She’s a professional. She knows how to get herself ready for the game, and I know she will perform, and she’ll perform really well, even if I don’t really understand that motivation.”
As Victory prepare to host City, Flannery said the feeling around derby day remains unmistakable, regardless of form or fixture congestion.
“It’s just the unspoken feeling of a rivalry… We just know that there’s that extra bit of happiness when you do beat them.”
Above: Kyah Simon in training for Dijon. Image: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
by Jean-Pierre Thiesset (22/12/2025).
Impetus’ Football’s Jean-Pierre Thiesset interviewed Kyah Simon about her latest journey in France and how it compares to the rest of her illustrious career. The striker represents Australia, earning 111 caps and scoring 29 goals. In 2011, Simon became the first Indigenous Australian player to score a goal in a FIFA Women’s World Cup. She signed a 1-year contract with Dijon in the Arkema Première Ligue in October 2025.
Jean-Pierre Thiesset: What drew you to France, and Dijon specifically?
Kyah Simon: For me, I have always been aware of the French league being one of the first league in Europe, but it was quite a random way I guess how it came about. It was through a friend I know, who was an agent; when the Dijon sporting director, who was looking for another striker, got in touch with him and became aware of my situation. At the time I was training and looking myself back up in Sydney. It was, yeah, quite an urgent request to respond and I had to make a decision fairly quickly from being in Sydney with my family and deciding within 24 hours. I think what draws me is obviously knowing France Première League is one of the top leagues in Europe and I wanted to get back in European high-level football. I had a great conversation with Sylvain Carric, Sporting Director, and it just made sense for my career at the time.
JPT: After playing in England, Holland, and the US, how does each league style and standard compare with Australia?
KS: I would say definitely across the board it is very different. I would say in the US obviously it is very athletic and direct.
In Holland, I guess it was a similar experience than to Australia, in terms of level of football there.
In England, I think probably it is definitely out there that there is the highest quality league in the world with the top players they have in terms of well-known players, big names players, and from very different countries.
Above: Simon on the ball in training with Dijon. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
I think France is that league that flies under the radar a little bit but with high quality players very technical and tactical winners. It is a very consistent league across the board with obviously top teams like Lyon (OL Lyonnes), which has always been strong for years.
I guess Australian league was involved in changes during the last years from when a lot of the core of us experienced players were in the league. Now there are more young players coming through, which is great for development, but I think obviously the experience from either over the world or different national teams is important and there is not much of that now in the league.
JPT: After some injury hit seasons, how are you feeling, and has the change of environment helped?
KS: Yeah, for me I definitely felt like I needed a change in environment being back in a really professional environment here in Dijon club in terms of the facilities and the set up and being a full-time professional football player. Dijon offered that to me and coming from the A-League I think for me it was just time to change the environment. I had a difficult couple of years with injuries, and it has been a real challenge and struggle for me to just find some rhythm and momentum, and I think the first thing was to be in the highest professional environment that will take care of me first and foremost and then built step by step.
You know, coming here first in Dijon, there will always be a teaming period and having to settle in a new environment in a non-English country (laugh). There are a lot of challenges that come in place, but the one cool thing is that every day I wake up and I am really excited to looking forward to coming to the club. I want to put in the work and get myself back to the best form that I know I can and have patience with myself at the same time. I just cannot expect it to happen overnight but knowing that I got the full support of the club and everyone here has just really settled me and is taking those baby steps with me, hopefully I have a very good feeling. So, I think that it has been very good to have understanding, feel understood as well and know what it takes to help me get back to my best.
Above: Simon warms up. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
JPT: Have you had any contact from Joe Montemurro since he took over the Matildas job?
KS: Yes, I have, we talked a few times, and he said that going to Dijon was a good option for me. Again, it is the same as everyone else, it is just about playing and getting back matches minutes which I think ultimately that is the goal for everyone.
He is a great guy, and I had a few conversations with him. Ultimately it is about getting match minutes, and it is the goal for me and for everyone involved and whatever happens from those match minutes will happen you know. Until I got back on the pitch and got regular minutes that is the key to everything.
JPT: There has been a lot of talk recently about how successfully the A-League Women built on having the 2023 World Cup played in Australia. What would you like to see happen to further develop the competition?
KS: Yeah, look, after the World Cup I think we do not capitalize as much on the tournament. I think it was a missed opportunity. Salary is the number one thing for players to be able to be on full-time contract and to have a long enough season where you have a preseason and off-season period. Again, I mean the wages need to increase.
Also, it should be an all-around the year competition because until you have that, numerous players, majority in each team, have a different job or need to work elsewhere. Until you do not have the players on full-time wages and they do not have to have another job, they will always be splitting interest, and it is not ideal for training time. So, there is so much that flows on from that, that high salary with full-time contract and more support and resources around the league are necessary.
I think until you have that, the product itself will never be taken seriously and be attractive to compete with European leagues. You cannot compete with any other leagues until I guess you put those measures in place. Right now, it is an easy decision for Australian players to go oversea where they will be on a full-time season salary. In Australia a lot of players are left in limbo during the off-season period and are playing in a lower level trying to make money. Some players are not even playing for months, and they lose that kind of momentum and cohesion that you try to build in the team and each time you must restart from scratch.
However, I would like to say that the competition is a really healthy place because it is a league where pretty much majority of Matildas came through and that is the ongoing league that we all came through and developed through. So, A-League is essentially the portal for national team, and by fixing it domestically, it will benefit national team for the future.
JPT: Do you want to say a few words to your numerous fans in Dijon, Australia and all over the world?
KS: Obviously, with my 17 years of professional career, I would not be where I am without the fans’ support. Particularly, when I have not been on the pitch and going through a difficult time being injured. They had been patient with my process, and I really appreciated that and their understanding that at the end of the day no one wants to be on the pitch playing as much as I am. I am working as hard as I possibly can because I want to be back at top level and play and train consistently week in and week out.
I really appreciate the support from the fans all around the world wherever they are from. It is very appreciated when they send me a nice message on social media or when I meet nice people at games. I would definitely say, stick with us and stick with me and hopefully we could share some good moments in the future.
I would say that since I am in Dijon I met some lovely kind people in the club where they were friendly but also outside in Dijon.
Above: Simon lunges for the ball. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
I am enjoying being back in Europe. It is a new experience for me, and I guess at my age still being to experience something new in football it is the gift that keeps on giving for me and I am just enjoying the ride.
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