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