“There’s still a chance”- Chinnama and Young Matildas relish experience and keep the belief

By Kieran Yap 5/9/24

Above: Young Matildas vice captain Naomi Chinnama addresses the media through Football Australia.

Following Australia’s second group game against Mexico, Young Matildas defenders Naomi Chinnama and Ella Buchanan spoke to the media about the experience so far.

Australia are still in this tournament was the message from Australia’s Under 20’s Vice Captain. Fresh from the 2-0 defeat against Mexico, Naomi Chinnama said that there was plenty learned from the match.

“They were very well prepared, and they had a plan that they executed extremely well,” she said of their last opponents.

“I feel as though went in fighting right up until the final whistle.

“No doubt there’s a lot of learning that we can take from that game and we just need to use that for Cameroon.

It was another close loss for Australia. A missed penalty was made all the more painful when Mexico scored what could be best described as a lucky goal in the second half before an injury time strike sealed the 2-0 result.

“There were moments where we were successful with our buildup, and we were able to create chances,” said Chinnama. In defence the Aussies were not overwhelmed and kept their shape. It was a harsh result, even though Mexico looked faster and more attacking.

After two losses, Australia can still progress to the knockout rounds with a win. The four best third placed teams in the groups advance in the tournament.

“There’s still a chance,” said Chinnama.

“I’ve been getting around the girls and we’ve been getting around each other. We need to keep our heads up because as long as there’s still a chance, we need to throw everything at it.

“We’re Australians, we need to show our resilience. I believe that’s truly a strength of ours.”

Now at her second youth World Cup after being in the 2022 squad, Chinnama says nothing compares to the experience of an international tournament.

“A World Cup is just amazing. If I was here 10 times it would be the same thing.

“I’m at a loss for words everytime I step on that international stage,

“It’s something I don’t take for granted.

“With each game there’s always learning opportunities. I’m just so grateful to be able to see so many world class opponents.”

The Melbourne City premiership winner captained the side after skipper Jess Nash was substituted. It was something that she considered an honour and focussed on being a role model and in her word  she “tried not to mess it up too much.”

Following the tournament, she will take on as new challenge as Perth Glory’s defensive star signing. It will be the first time she has played for another club outside of Melbourne.

“I will miss Melbourne because it’s been  my home for the last fouer years. Im blessed for the time that I spent there.

“I’m excited to be embarking on this new chapter in Perth. I can’t wait to get started. I’m going to go in and put my head down and work as hard as I can.”

Ella Buchanan made her World Cup debut in the second half against Mexico. The Western Sydney defender said that the experience was an incredible reward for effort she put into being selected.

“It’s pretty incredible to be able to step onto that pitch wearing the Australian uniform.

“A pretty memorable moment I would say, especially as it has been one of my goals to represent Australia, to be able to do that at an U20 world cup was just incredible.

“I’m super super grateful for the opportunity.

“It’s a very very good learning experience to able to see all these different styles and different players. to be able to come up against that and test yourself is really rewarding and there’s lots to take away from it.”

For Buchanan, the appearance capped off a rapid rise. The 20 year old is in just her second camp, and although she was not part of the Asian Cup squad, she continued to push for selection.

“A year ago this seemed pretty far way and not getting selected is a bit disheartening but I took that upon myself to work harder, to stay dedicated and to just have patience because everyone will get their opportunity eventually if you just stay working hard.”

Australia will need every bit of that self-belief across the entire team to progress in the tournament. A win will see them leapfrog Cameroon into third place in the group. With only two full days between matches, the focus has been on physical and mental recovery.

But there is belief in this team to match the talent, and as Chinnama said, “there is still a chance.”

Australia play Cameroon on Saturday morning AEST at 8am

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Johno Clemente: a coach climbing the ranks

By Kieran Yap

Above: Melbourne Victory assistant Johno Clemente. Photo: Melbourne Victory

We take a deep dive on why the 25-year old Johno Clemente’s name is on everybody’s lips and what the future holds for one of the brightest young minds in Australian Football currently.

Clemente is a coach on the rise in the women’s game. Coaching vacancies are few in the Australian professional game, but when they come up, his name is inevitably mentioned. 

He was heavily rumoured to be a strong candidate for multiple head coach roles this season, however whilst the dust settles, Clemente is preparing for his third year under Jeff Hopkins with Melbourne Victory.

Still only 25, Clemente is one of Jeff Hopkin’s right-hand men, has experience working in the Victorian NPLW and is known for eye catching football in his home state.

The former Heidelberg United and Essendon Royals manager also coaches the Afghan Women’s National Team as they climb the tiers of the state leagues. 

Clemente’s first accolades were at his childhood club, Essendon Royals. 19 years of age, he was tasked with rebuilding a recently relegated squad, on the brink of the team folding he transformed the Women’s Program and got promoted in first time of asking.

Pre-season was a reality check for the rookie coach. With players departing following relegation, the first challenge was to find enough players to field a team. 

“You’d be hoping at least at least 40 people would come to trials and only 10 people came. So that was a very rude awakening.”

“The club was seriously considering folding the folding team”

Remaining positive, or at least optimistic, Clemente eventually formed a squad, but the hurdles continued. The club lost every single game of pre-season and then dropped the first three games of the league. 

Eventually, the club’s fortunes turned, a culture started building and Essendon eventually went on a 10-game undefeated run to promotion, those results naturally earned attention.

Heidelberg United took notice and signed the then 20-year-oldto be the head coach of their senior NPLW team in 2019, making him the youngest ever NPL Senior Head Coach. 

It was a bigger club, a stronger league and although Heidelberg has a proud history, they are not traditional giants of the women’s competition. 

“I knew I wasn’t going to attract the big players,” said Clemente of the first season. 

“I knew I could deliver and focus on, if I could have a good sessions good culture, and then build good relationship and focus on those three key aspects early on, I knew over time that the players would begin to come. That was the platform we used to grow. We built something special, and players were drawn to it and the success followed.”

A sixth placed finish in his covid impacted first season was hard earned, and it was a steep but rapidly climbed learning curb.

Despite the respectable ladder placing, there were some tough results in that first season. Clemente kept the long-term view and set about building a culture around his team that eventually saw them narrowly miss out on silverware in 2022. 

There were intially some raised eyebrows about the club hiring a 20 year old senior coach, but Clemente proved that he was the right choice. 

His three-season tenure at Heidelberg accomplished the highest league finish for the Bergers in twelve years, best cup run since 2016, 10 players signed at A- League clubs, a transformed junior program saw the progression of multiple players to TIDC, NTC and ALW Pathway Programs and he departed Heidelberg with the highest win ratio of any coach in the NPL era.

When quizzed on his success at Heidelberg he reflected on the whole club culture during his time. 

“We had plenty of challenges and barriers we had to break down in the Women’s Program, but it made our resolve stronger and brought the culture of our program closer together because we knew we were working hard for a common goal, we worked hard to align the junior and senior programs, there was plenty of crossover.

“I’d be involved with the juniors as much as possible along with many senior players which made the connection in the club genuine and attracted our junior players to come and support our seniors, it was a special time when things go well.”

Clemente’s Heidelberg United were known for their exciting, attacking, brave style with quality players like Danielle Wise, Steph Galea, current and former A-League talent such as Grace Jale, Rebecca Burrows, Emily Roach, Tijan Mckenna and Isabella Wallhead. 

Heidelberg under Clemente were dynamic and modern in their game style. Just as capable of grinding out a win or engaging in an open end-to-end shootout. They were compulsory viewing in 2022, and it took some epic performances from other sides to deny them a shot at a trophy. 

“I hoped every time someone watched a Heidelberg game they saw a side that was creative , positive, organised and a side that never gave up, I’m a firm believer of having a well balanced approach, being adaptable and also that our structure gives our players freedom to go and express themselves”

Melbourne Victory then secured Clemente’s services. They deployed his talents workimg alongside Jeff Hopkins in the A- League Women whilst also serving as the Female Pathway Coordinator.

It was a role that saw him produce and manage the best young players in Melbourne, create pathways and develop the next generation of Melbourne Victory A-League stars.

Clemente’s full time move to Victory was a full circle moment for the young coach who grew up following the club and was a seamless transition. 

“Working with Jeff Hopkins, Gareth Turnbull, Harley Hamdiani, Caroline Carenegie, John Didulica and many more, how can I not learn and grow? 

“The staff, the club and the culture makes going to ‘work’ every day so fun, but the genuine care and belief seen in everyone who steps through the door is what makes the club so special and that stems from the top with Caroline and JD, but its one of the many reasons I’ll run through a brick wall for Jeff!

“I’m very fortunate to have a role model and mentor in these early stages of my career as special and respected as Jeff Hopkins alongside so many others.”

Alongside his work with the A-League Women squad, Clemente also coaches Melbourne Victory’s Afghan WomensTeam. 

“Working with the Afghanistan Women’s team has been such a rewarding experience, as a coach you try to find teams and clubs to inspire, but in this rare scenario it’s the players and team that inspire the coach.

“It has been great to be across all the female football at the club from our Pathway Programs, Afghan Womens and A- League Women.”

Amongst the recent buzz and hype around his future, Clemente stated he was enjoying the journey. 

“I work every day with the best football people I know, at the biggest football club in the country, the last few months have been chaotic, but positive steps in the right direction and some of the best football people in the country are advocating for me.

“I’m a firm believer of it’s not a matter of ‘will I get the next opportunity it’s a matter of when’ and timing is everything but when that time comes, I know I’ll be ready.

“I’m looking forward to pre-season for the ALW and hopefully adding another trophy to the club’s cabinet and continue to push boundaries and raise standards in all aspects of our female football at the club.”

Melbourne Victory fans are pleased he will continue as an assistant at the club for at least one more campaign and with the genuine excitement of Clemente’s A- League Head Coach potential.

Should Hopkins be lured away to Europe one day, or if a national team comes calling, Victory have his potential successor already on board.

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Prakash and Kruger reflect on U20 World Cup debuts

By Kieran Yap 2/9/24

Above: The Young Matildas in training. Photo: Ann Odong. Football Australia.

Following the opening game against Colombia, the Young Matildas have focussed on recovery and quick improvement by the time they face Mexico. Avaani Prakash and Zara Kruger both made their FIFA tournament debut’s in the 2-0 loss and spoke to the media about the experience.

“It was amazing,” said Prakash of playing infront of the nearly 40,000 partisan crowd in Colombia.  

“The experience, I can’t even put into words.  

“When we were going for warmups it was so loud. I thought they were all cheering for us, but I didn’t realise the Colombians were right next to us walking out to warm up as well.”

Australia might consider themselves unlucky. Despite coming up against the tournament hosts, they mostly defended diligently and had an equaliser cancelled out controversially by VAR.

Prakash was brought on as a second half substitute and although awed by the crowd, she was able to focus on the task at hand.

“’Get on the ball, we need to win this game’” she said on her intent and thought process.

 “That was all that I was thinking when I was going in, the moment I touched the ball I knew what to do.”

Although they were able to create some chances, Australia did not enjoy the usual amount of possession that they had during qualifying. It is something that they want to improve in the next match against Mexico.

“We just had to get on the ball. I don’t think we were good enough to break their defence down,  but looking to next game that’s one thing we’re going to work on.

“We want the three points, we want to make it out of the group stage and we want to do well in this tournament.”

Brisbane Roar midfielder Zara Kruger echoed those sentiments, which points to a united team as they search for a vital win on Wednesday morning.

“We’ve moved on from that game and we’re into recobvery and working towards what we need to improve on,” said Kruger .

“I think we just need to work as a team and be clinical in the front third and we’ll be able to put goals away.”

Both players said that the pace was quicker than at other levels, particularly the ball speed, but it is something they can adjust to.

“It was tough at times,” said Kruger

“But  I think going into the next game we need to work on a few things and being on the ball a lot more will help a lot.”

Like the 2022 Young Matildas, the current side had to face a loud home crowd in the opening game. Colombia were backed by a sold out stadium and to beging with it was an adjustment for the players more accustomed to a few thousand in the A-League Women.  

“Going into warm up, my ears were ringing a little bit,” said Kruger.

“It was so amazing to hear the crowd so loud and I’ve never played in front of a crowd that loud so it was such an experience.

“Everyone had to use their voices s bit louder. Awareness was a big thing.”

For both players, their debut’s were the result of a whirlwind couple of years, Prakash burst onto the A-League scene with Western United and received a late call up after an injury to star forward Emilia Murray.

“It’s been a big 12 months,” recalled Prakash.  

“Theres been ups and downs, but its been good.

“When I got to Western I think that was a great experience seeing  what it was to be in a professional environment.

“I love western, the coaches, the staff, and most importantly my team. They really helped me grow as person on and off the pitch.”

For Kruger, the opening game was the result of a long and gruelling qualifying campaign. Although the result was not what they wanted, she was able to share the unique experience with some of her closest friends.

“We’ve been working towards this as a group for the past two years and to all go out there and play a part was a special experience.”

The Young Matildas will face a Mexico team that has recently drawn with the United States and beaten Japan. But Australia are confident they can get the job done.

“They’re a very good side and its going tro be a hard game,” said Prakash

“We just need to keep the ball a bit more and create more attacking opportunities going forward.”

Australia play Mexico at 8am AEST. Viewable on 10Play.

NPLW Vic: Preston and Heidelberg head into Grand Final

Preston Lions 1-0 Essendon Royals

By Joe Rosedon 2/9/24

Preston edged past Essendon to reach their first ever Grand Final, after Haley Johnson once again delivers for Preston, scoring the only goal of the game

An unsurprisingly cagey start saw very few chances of note, with both teams reluctant to reveal the hands too early and Essendon able to nullify Preston’s free scoring front line. A tight angled effort from Emma Robers was the closet to opening the scoring for either team during the first 15 minutes but was eventually held by Charlotte Hrehorsein after initially spilling the ball.

Preston’s pressure began to build as the first half wore on and a goal for the home side looked more and more likely. It almost came from Miri Nishimura when her attempt from the edge of the box looked destined for the bottom left corneronce the ball left her boot, only for it to be a few inches wide of the goal. 

On the stroke of hall time Preston had their breakthrough. Mebabe Tanaka received the ball just in front of the halfway line. Her searching cross into the box was aimed for Johnson. 

On receival, Johnson held off Marie Rampal and like she has done all season, put the chance away by sliding the ball underneath an onrushing Bethany Mason-Jones to give Preston the lead. 

Essendon needed a strong start to the second half to wrestle back momentum from Preston. A dangerous corner from TJ Vlajnic forced Hrehorsein into two punches until the ball was eventually cleared away.

Johnson could have had a second but good combined defensive work from Rampal and Mason- Jones pushed Jonhson into a less than favourable shooting position and was unable to convert.

Essendon pushed and prodded but did create enough clear-cut chances to really trouble the Preston defence in the second half of the game. They resulted to desperate long-range efforts in the closing stages that were easily delt with by Hrehorseinwhile their set pieces were met with a similar fate. 

Preston will now face Heidelberg in the Grand Final on Saturday after their shock away victory against Bullen. Reaching the final in only their second season in the NPL Victoria, Preston’s season has been nothing short of remarkable and will be looking to conclude it the perfect way.

Essendon will obviously be disappointed with the result, however after back-to-back promotions the club is clearly headed in the right direction and will look to go one step further next season. 

Bulleen Lions 2-4 Heidelberg United

By Kieran Yap 2/9/24

Heidelberg United will join The Preston Lions in the NPLW Victoria Grand Final after a 4-2 win away to Bulleen.

The fourth placed Bergers came into this game after ending the season in surging form, but for most neutrals, Bulleen were the favourites having won the Nike FC Cup & the premiership this season.

Heidelberg began in attacking fashion, forcing Erin Hudson into a low, close range save early on. A free kick from Alana Jancevski whistled over the bar soon after and it appeared that the visitors had arrived with intent to shoot without hesitation.

Bulleen’s best early chances came through Alana Cortellino. The new Western United signing raced behind the Heidelberg attack but could not find a teammate or the goal.

Tiffany Eliadis battled and ran tirelessly in midfield, but Heidelberg pressed in a fast and organised fashion making it hard for the home side to gain any sustained control.

The opening goal arrived through Stephanie Galea. The Heidelberg captain capitalised on a turnover to lift the ball over Hudson in the 25th minute.

That lead was doubled when Sarah O’Donoghue’s free kick whipped around the wall and bounced over a diving Hudson nine minutes later.

If there was any doubt that it was Heidelberg’s day that was confirmed in the second half. Asuka Miyata’s shot from long range bounded off the bottom of the post and into the diving  Hudson’s back before crossing the line.

Bulleen continued to try and force a way back into this game. Maja Markovski created chances from wide positions and Cortellino continued to threaten, but as they chased the game, they left themselves open to counter attacks against a pacy Heidelberg attack.

Galea effectively sealed the win with her second of the game in the 76th minute. She sped through on goal and slipped the ball past the onrushing Hudson.

Cortellino produced some moments of magic to set up two late goals and give Bulleen some hope, but time was their enemy and Heidelberg never looked like conferring a third.

The result ends Bulleen’s campaign, but 2024 remains a remarkable season. They won their second consecutive premiership with a very different lineup and won the Nike Cup in a thriller of a contest.

Trebles are hard to win and climbing the mountain top three times over a few weeks proved one challenge too many for the best side of the home and away season, but they should be proud of the year they had, even if they stumbled in the unforgiving Australian finals system.

Heidelberg United will face second placed Preston in the Grand Final at the Home of the Matildas.

Based on this performance, they could easily to in as favourites. Heidelberg were fast, decisive and dangerous. They looked energetic with and without the ball and took advantage of errors by their opponents.

Preston United have probably been better for longer, but Heidelberg are peaking at the exact right time of the season.

Woods and Lincoln look ahead to Young Matildas U20 World Cup opener

by Ben Gilby (29/8/24)

Above: Alicia Woods speaking from Bogotá earlier today. Image: Football Australia.

The Young Matildas are making their final preparations in the Colombian capital Bogotá ahead of their opening U20 World Cup match on Saturday against the host nation with duo Alicia Woods and Chloe Lincoln in a confident mood as they spoke earlier today.

“It’s pretty unreal to be honest!” the Brisbane Roar midfielder exclaimed when asked about her experiences so far after 10 days in South America. “The experience in general has been unmatched….It’s taken over my whole life for the last few months.”

Speaking about her footballing journey that has taken her from Queensland to Bogotá, Woods said: “It started when I was five, I played with a few mates with my local team, I played with the boys for 10 years growing up. I was always with the neighbours kicking the ball on the oval and I just fell in love with it. I then made my way in women’s football playing with Peninsula Power (in the NPLW Queensland) for a few years, and now Brisbane Roar.”

The midfielder is eternally grateful to the Roar for helping to put her in the position to improve her game to the extent that she is part of Australia’s U20 World Cup squad.

“They gave me a shot that I’ve been asking for. I’ve been working for so many years, it felt like forever. To finally get that shot and get a few games under my belt – it’s just exploded since then.

“It’s definitely a big leap from (NPLW) club football to the A-League but being in that environment and training with those girls like Tameka Yallop and Sharn Freier…was an experience and has helped me to grow into the player that I think I am becoming.”

Yallop, as a fellow midfielder has been a particular key person in Woods’ development, despite the Roar youngster admitting she was so much in awe of the Matildas legend at first.

“I was too scared to go up and say ‘hello’ to her, but as soon as I got the opportunity to start and play in midfield alongside her, she has been so much help and been guiding me through it, coaching me, just a massive role model for me.”

Above: The Estadio El Campin -the 39,000-capacity venue that will host the Young Matildas opening game against Colombia on Saturday. Photo: Alcadia de Bogotá.

Reflecting on her first impressions on coming into the camp and how things now are 10 days on, Woods laughed: “I wasn’t expecting everyone to be so fit. Everyone is very fit and can run for miles.

“There’s a very physical side to the game which I probably wasn’t used to, but it’s been a lot more intense and a lot more demanding, but that’s a good thing. It’s going to be a big change going back to Brisbane just knowing what I am capable of now compared to last season. The last few months, I feel this environment has helped me so much.”

With the Young Matildas now two days away from their opening group game against the host nation Colombia, the midfielder feels the squad are in the right place.

“The team is bonding well…we are all starting to understand each other and our goals, and what we want to get out of the tournament and I think it’s looking like it’s shaping up well.”

With group stage fixtures against Colombia, Mexico, and Cameroon over the next eight days, Woods faces a range of new, unique challenges, but her attitude is simply ‘bring it on!’

“I’m really looking forward to the different styles, and the different aspects of their games and different countries’ tastes for football, and experiencing it here in Colombia – how much they love the sport and how much they get behind it – has been eye-opening.”

Above: Young Matildas goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln speaking today. Image: Football Australia.

Chloe Lincoln is on the brink of playing in her second U20 World Cup, but admits that this one comes with one particularly unique challenge – altitude.

“We’ve had this two-year journey which has been amazing, but it’s been so good these last two weeks as a group, getting used to the altitude of course and we’re feeling really excited for the game now,” said Western United’s new signing.

“It’s just been all about getting used to the conditions. We’ve been pretty fortunate being here for the amount of time we have and so it’s meant getting more and more exposure and getting used to it.

“I think it’s definitely not easy! Being able to do it altogether, everybody’s in the same boat at the end of the day. The struggle is definitely real, but we’ve been able to prepare well and everyone’s been saying it’s getting easier and easier each day.

“Breathing just becomes pretty difficult. We’ve had a lot of preparation meetings about what we were going to be exposed to. I’m a bit more tired than usual. I think it’s about 20-30% performance deficit until you can adapt your body, but it’s been good to get that exposure now so we’re ready for the opening game…The ball moves differently due to altitude. That’s been one thing that takes a while to get used to.”

However, one major advantage that Lincoln does have is the first-hand experience of what it’s like to face the host nation in the opening game – last time round it was Costa Rica, this time Colombia. The volume of feverish support among a packed crowd for your opponents is not something many of these Young Matildas players would have experienced before.

“We are so lucky that we get to play the host nation two tournaments in a row and being the opening game of the World Cup. One thing that was definitely a factor in the Costa Rica game was the importance of the crowd and I think that will be another similar experience versing Colombia…we’ve been told it’s close to capacity or will be sold out (the Estadio El Campin has a 39,000 capacity – see image further up this article). It’s very exciting, a lot of us will not have played in front of a crowd this big before, so it will definitely be a new challenge.”

Photography from Young Matildas training supplied to Impetus by Football Australia:

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The Marvellous year of Maja Markovski

By Kieran Yap 29/8/24

Above: Markovski celebrates one of her 20 goals this season. Photo: Bulleen Lions instagram

Maja Markovski has been one of the most entertaining and reliable forwards in Victoria’s NPLW. The league’s leading scorer spoke to Impetus about her incredible season.

It was the Nike FC Cup final, an early penalty kick to Preston Lions FC had put Bulleen on the back foot and the league leaders looked for inspiration. Up stepped Maja Markovsi and as she had all season, delivered a moment of magic.

The Bulleen forward struck a thunderous free kick that bounced off the bar before the chance was finished off by Rosie Rodger with the keeper well beaten.

Bulleen would eventually win the game 3-2 with Markovski adding another assist, but it was that free kick that turned the tide. Markovski had once again produced a moment of magic when it mattered most.

It’s been a common occurrence in 2024. She ends the home and away season with 20 goals in 20 appearances. When Bulleen needed a win to claim top spot, she delivered a long range effort that was barely believable for anybody watching on.

Since joining Bulleen Lions, Markovski has collected highlights and trophies. The 2024 premiership is her third team accolade in two seasons, with a fourth in their immediate sights. In her first season under Caitlin Friend, she was an exciting and consistent addition to a star studded squad. This year, she has simply been dominant.

It has come off the back of hard work on and off the field.

“I think like the difference between last year and this year is just the fact that I’ve been able to get myself physically fit again,” she said to Impetus.

“And honestly, a massive thing about doing so well this year as well would be the level of confidence that Caity  has instilled in me this year.

“It was difficult to come off an A-League season, where I was interrupted by injuries and things like that.

“ I think this year I kind of used it to rebuild and kind of rebrand myself.”

Markovski is the focal point of a very strong team. The experienced player in attack, both X- factor and dependable presence. It is a strange thing to say about a player long admired in Victorian football, but 2024 feels like a breakout season, for her and Bulleen.

“We started something really good in the preseason. I think we had a lot of new faces and things like that. So we built a really strong team culture.

“I think it’s really shown in the last couple of games where we’ve needed to show that we are a really good team together.”

Although Bulleen have been the league leaders for most of the season, it has not been one without challenges. There has been injuries to significant players, and while Markovski shared the attacking duties with the likes of Alana Jancevski and Beattie Goad in 2023, this season she has stepped up to become the senior figure.

At 22 years old, Markovski has had few chances to be the older player in the team, but flanked by 17 year old Alana Cortellino and 19 year old Rosie Rodger, she has enjoyed the responsibility and flourished as the experienced head in a young attack.

“I think I’ve had to probably step up a bit more this year because we don’t have like the likes of Beattie  and Jancevski.  

“We’ve had Alana, who’s super young 17. And then even on that left side, we’ve had a mix of players, but they’ve all been super young as well, so I’ve kind of had to lead the line from the front this year, and not kind of rely on other players.

“It’s been a good change.

“When players kind of look to me for some inspiration in the game, or to make something happen, and then it kind of gets them going as well, I’ve definitely enjoyed it.”

Markovski has been more than a human highlight reel in 2024. She drops deep to link play, holds the ball up with her back to goal and can be found dashing down either flank. It makes her a nightmare for defenders to track and in full flight, the tall striker is as quick as any winger.

She is a famous celebrator too. It is obvious that she loves a goal and wants to bring as many people into the jubilation as possible. After taking the lead in the Golden Boot race in round 22, she did not stop at her teammates. After breaking free of the mob of Bulleen players, she raced to the sideline to embrace a group of fans, and then the club’s coaching staff.

These moments, hide a humility too. She views goalscoring as her job and responsibility, would prefer to finish off a team move than score an banger and in both the Nike FC Cup final and after scoring the rocket against Alamein, her reaction was unusually muted.

“I think in the Cup  game I don’t know, It was a bit anticlimactic when I saw it hit the crossbar, then bounce down and then we scored,  I was like, ‘Okay, sweet.’

“It was kind of like more relief.

“It was the same type of vibe in the Alamein game. I think like I’d had a couple of shots that hit the crossbar, and things weren’t kind of going my way. When I got that in, it was just relief.”

In former Victory striker Caitlin Friend, Markovsi has found a mentor that trusts her in the big moments and seems to build game plans around putting her In those positions. Her form this season has been undeniable and exciting to watch, but Markovski says it is also a result of the culture around the team.

“I’m playing with a lot of confidence this year and and I guess in like big moments where there’s pressure, I kind of use that to fuel me.

“I want to be the game changer. You know, I want to win the game for the girls. So I think like that pressure and having that on my back like I’ve just really enjoyed it, and just try to thrive off it.”

There are chances for more of those moments in the coming weeks. Bulleen play in a semi-final against a resurgent Heidelberg this weekend as they hunt for a third trophy of 2024.

“I don’t think we have to change too much to be honest,” says Markovski of the upcoming match

“I think we’ve been really good this year and stepping up in big games.

“So I think if we just play our game and not focus too much on the opposition, and you know we put our best foot forward, I think we’ll do really well.”

It promises to be an exciting match, and with the Golden Boot winner leading the line, Bulleen are every chance to go through.

But no matter how this season ends it has been a sensational one for Maja Markovski. We are near the end of the season, but it still looks like this is only the beginning of a very promising career.

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Are Arsenal’s Additions: enough to catch Chelsea?

By Isabelle Campbell 29/8/25

Above: Mariona Caldentey. Photo: Arsenal Football Club

Arsenal have been busy this transfer window and have increased their chances of catching Chelsea at the top. Isabelle Campbell looks at the impact the new arrivals can have.

With the first matches of the 24/25 Women’s Super League season just around the corner, Arsenal Women are gearing up for what fans hope will be an ambitious campaign following a disappointing third-place finish in the previous season.

Club manager Jonas Eidevall has brought in a handful of strategic signings handpicked to elevate his club’s performance. As the club looks to challenge for both domestic and European honours, these new additions are positioned to make an impact.

From filling holes left by departures to strengthening key positions and adding further depth and experience, Arsenal’s acquisitions in this transfer window reveal their drive to return to the peak of women’s football.

An exciting start

Arsenal Women began the transfer window by securing the services of World Cup winning Spanish forward Mariona Caldentey, a decisive move in their quest for success. The signing of the 28-year-old signals a significant step forward for the English club, as they aim to enhance their offensive capabilities and compete at the highest levels of women’s football.


Caldentey’s arrival at the club marks a crucial move in filling the space left by the recent departure of WSL top goal scorer Vivianne Miedema. While both players excel in creating scoring opportunities, they exhibit distinct styles of play. Miedema, well-known as a central striker, is notorious for her precision and positioning in front of goal.

In contrast, Caldentey’s versatility allows her to shine as both a winger and in a deeper supporting position. Despite the challenge of filling Miedema’s shoes, Caldentey’s diverse skill set and expertise in the forward line offer a promising solution to maintaining and possibly enhancing Arsenal’s offensive capabilities.
Caldentey’s versatility along the forward line is a significant asset for any team she plays for.

Capable of playing as a central striker, a winger, or in a supporting attacking role, she offers head coach Jonas Eidevall a considerable level of tactical flexibility. This versatility allows Eidevall to utilise her strategically based on any opposition’s weaknesses, providing Arsenal with multiple dimensions in their attacking approach.

Taking a glance back at Mariona Caldentey’s trophy-laden 10-year stretch with European women’s football giants FC Barçelona Femeni and impressive history with the Spanish Women’s National Team is all the proof necessary to see the winning mentality and ability she possesses.

Boasting a hugely impressive personal trophy case including but by no means limited to six Liga F titles, three UEFA Women’s Champions Leagues, and of course the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Caldentey’s winning mentality brings a proven track record of success to Arsenal Women.

Arsenal Women faced several challenges last season, but one of their most notable struggles was a lack of converting scoring opportunities into goals. While they possessed a strong attacking lineup, there were often times when they struggled to break through opposing teams playing in a low block and capitalising on their chances when in possession.

Caldentey could be the perfect solution to this problem, having frequently been described as a creative player and often making unpredictable movements making her difficult to mark in and around the box.


Her arrival at Arsenal Women marks a significant growing point in the team’s attacking capabilities, tactical adaptability, and competitive drive. As a player, she not only fills a significant gap in the squad but also positions the club strongly for success in both the domestic league and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Can the Spaniard help in securing the North London club some silverware next season? No one can say for certain however it would be fair to say that this coming season, there will be plenty of eyes on Mariona Caldentey, Arsenal Women’s new number eight.

A new number 1?

The second and highly anticipated signing made by the club is that of Dutch goalkeeper Daphne Van Domselaar, a position that fans have been vocal about wanting the club to improve upon. Van Domselaar arrives with an impressive portfolio at both club level and on the international stage, which suggests the potential impact she can make at Arsenal. Her times at both FC Twente in the Eredivisie and more recently, Aston Villa in the WSL have helped to establish the goalkeeper as one of Europe’s rising talents.


Van Domselaar has consistently excelled throughout her club career, praised highly for her decisive saves and strong presence in the penalty area. Her skill in directing defensive play and maintaining control has earned acclaim from coaches, teammates, and fans alike, giving her the status of one of the league’s top upcoming goalkeepers.

On the international stage, Van Domselaar has quickly made herself indispensable to the Dutch national team, OranjeLeeuwinnen. She played a pivotal role in their campaign during the 2022 Women’s Euros, where her performances were instrumental in helping her nation reach the quarter-final.

This experience in a high-pressure tournament is an invaluable skill to the Arsenal squad, particularly as they read themselves for a season that will potentially hold multiple European challenges in the Champions League.
Van Domselaar’s agility and sharp reflexes make her a dynamic presence in goal.

Her ability to read the game and execute strategic distribution will also greatly help with build-up play and overall opportunity-creating moments. Daphne’s addition is likely to be a motivational push for current first-choice keeper Manuela Zinsberger as she is faced with a young new teammate fighting for the same position.

To put it simply, Daphne van Domselaar’s signing for Arsenal Women is a massive move for the club. Her career, though only short so far, is undoubtedly impressive and brings a level of skill and youth that will be crucial to the club’s quest for silverware in the upcoming season.

An addition of youth

The final signing of this transfer window comes in the form of Swedish international Rosa Kafaji. Kafaji brings fresh energy and talent to the squad. Known for her fearlessness on the pitch and clear-cut attacking instincts, the 21-year-old is expected to make an immediate impact on the team’s front line.

Her ability to operate both as a central striker and a wide forward adds valuable versatility, giving manager Jonas Eidevall more tactical options to play with. Able to play comfortably as both a central striker and a wide forward, she brings flexibility in tactical options for Jonas Eidevall and allows Arsenal to change their attacking approaches based on the opposition they are facing.

One of Kafaji’s most commended traits in her gameplay is her technical skill on the ball particularly in tight spaces. Her ability to discover and exploit gaps in a defensive line will be significant for Arsenal, especially in breaking down teams playing in a low block. With Rosa on the pitch, Arsenal should be able to play more fluidly in their attacking play, hopefully leading to more shots finding the back of the net.

Kafaji’s signing presents more than just an addition of skill, but a strategic move by the club to invest in the future of their squad. At only 21 years old, Kafaji possesses both future potential and current readiness that can be built upon and affect both the present and future of the team.

Her youth and ambition are the perfect fit for Arsenal’s long-term plans, as she has the capacity to develop into a key player in years to come.

All in all Rosa Kafaji’s signing brings a level of versatility and depth to the Arsenal Women’s team. Her addition has the potential to boost the team’s attacking capabilities and overall performance, making Arsenal a more threatening contender across all competitions.
Will this be enough to catch the champions?

Will it be enough?

Now to take a look at the signings in direct comparison to that of Arsenal Women’s top competition, 23/24 league champions Chelsea and their runners-up Manchester City.

Both rivals have strengthened in the off season, with each grabbing the headlines with an early major signing each. Chelsea Women have added to their squad, England right-back Lucy Bronze with City adding Vivianne Miedema.

Having just completed two hugely successful seasons with Barçelona Femeni, in which she helped as they went on to win just about every piece of silverware they played for, Bronze brings an invaluable level of experience.

As the team looks to extend their WSL winning streak as well as fight for European success, will Lucy Bronze be able to play a role in helping them reach these goals?

The league runner-up Manchester City, fought long and hard to the very last day of the season where they ultimately fell just short of the first-place spot. With the title place coming down to goal difference, City have sought out and acquired the all-time leading goalscorer for the WSL and former Arsenal player, Vivianne Miedema.

Adding Miedema to the already formidable forward line including the likes of Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw, Mary Fowler, Chloe Kelly, and Lauren Hemp shows the desire to create even more attacking play moments for the team.

Arsenal have undoubtedly strengthened their squad and targeted problem areas however the signings made by Chelsea and Manchester City hint at an intense battle ahead for the top spot.

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