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ParaMatildas: The road to the World Cup starts this week!

from Ben Gilby (6/2/24)

Above: The ParaMatildas celebrate with the IFCPF Asia-Oceania Women’s Cup in November last year. They reconvene for the first time since later this week. Photo: Football Australia.

After winning the inaugural IFCPF Asia-Oceania Women’s Championships towards the end of 2023 to add to their World Cup Final appearance the previous year, the ParaMatildas will reconvene for a training camp from Friday to Sunday this week.

The camp, held at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra will consist of 14 players building towards going one better at this November’s IFCPF Women’s World Cup which will take place in Spain,.

The world number one ranked ParaMatildas have a sensational record since they were formed ahead of the 2022 IFCPF Women’s World Cup – a tournament that saw them eventually defeated after extra-time in the Final by the USA.

They followed that up by lifting the Para Asian Cup in Melbourne with a 2-0 win over Japan in the final thanks to goals from Nicole Christodoulou and Georgia Biekoff.

Nine members of that squad have been called up again for this week’s training camp with the addition of returning World Cup heroes Lainee Harrison and Charlize Tran.

A new arrival into the ParaMatildas arena is 16-year-old Queenslander Trinity McPhie who put in a series of impressive performances at the National Para Football Championships in Perth last year.

Head Coach Kelly Stirton emphasised how vital this week’s camp is saying: “(It) is an important part of our development and growth heading into an important 2024. To be successful at the World Cup in Spain, the preparation needs to start now.

“Last year was hugely successful year for the CommBank ParaMatildas program, winning the Para Asian Cup and becoming the number one ranked team in the world. The coaching staff and players are now focused on writing the next chapter in our relatively short history and moving to even greater heights.

“I am looking forward to seeing how the players return to the national team environment, whilst welcoming some fresh and established faces to the squad. We have a strong combination of experience and youth traveling to Canberra for the camp as we focus on building team chemistry and cohesion ahead of the World Cup in Spain later this year.”

PARAMATILDAS SQUAD FOR FEBRUARY TRAINING CAMP

FIRST NAME	SURNAME	POSITION
Georgia	Beikoff	Midfielder
Tahlia	Blanshard	Defender
Nicole	Christodoulou	Forward
Tamsin	Colley	Defender
Annmarie	De Uriarte	Forward
Ali	Green	Defender
Karina	Grigorian	Defender
Lainee	Harrison	Forward
Rebecca	Jones	Midfield
Trinity	McPhie	NEW
Eloise	Northam	Midfield
Carly	Salmon	Goalkeeper
Katelyn	Smith	Goalkeeper
Charlize	Tran	Forward

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A Journey through Chelsea Women’s History

By Ruby Vince 6/2/24

Above: Chelsea lift another trophy. Photo: Andy Wicks

In 1992, Chelsea Ladies Football Club emerged as a testament to the fervent desire of Chelsea FC supporters to see the club’s representation in women’s football. The subsequent years have witnessed a remarkable journey, characterized by overcoming challenges, strategic transformations, and achieving unprecedented success. From its grassroots inception to becoming a powerhouse in domestic and international competitions, the story of Chelsea FC Women unfolds as a captivating narrative of perseverance and triumph.

Chelsea Ladies Football Club was officially founded in 1992, catalyzed by the passionate vision of Chelsea FC fans who sought to establish a presence in women’s football. The journey to prominence, however, was not without its challenges. In 2004, the club underwent a significant transformation when it merged with Chelsea’s ‘Football in the Community’ department. Despite initial teething issues, the team weathered the storm, securing their place in the top-flight football, the FA Premier League National Division.

In the early years, Chelsea Ladies competed in regional leagues before making their way to the national stage. The team gradually climbed through the ranks and earned promotions, showcasing their commitment and talent. The turning point came in the 2004-2005 season when Chelsea Ladies won the FA Women’s Premier League Southern Division, earning promotion to the National Division.

In 2008, under the guidance of manager Steve Jones, Chelsea Women made strategic signings, bringing in talents like Siobhan Chamberlain, Casey Stoney, and Eniola Aluko. Financial difficulties loomed large, but crucial assistance from figures like John Terry helped stabilize the club during testing times.

Chelsea made history by winning the Women’s FA Cup for the first time, defeating Arsenal in the final. This victory marked a significant milestone and signalled Chelsea’s emergence as a force to be reckoned with in women’s football. The club continued to invest in its women’s team, both in terms of infrastructure and player acquisitions.

In 2011, a pivotal moment arrived as Chelsea FC Women were granted permission to compete in the inaugural Women’s Super League (WSL). In the initial years of Chelsea Women’s presence in the WSL, the team quickly established itself as a formidable force in English women’s football. Following their promotion to the top flight, Chelsea showcased a blend of talent, determination, and strategic leadership under manager Emma Hayes. The early seasons witnessed the team’s rapid progression, marked by notable victories and consistent performances. Chelsea’s investment in top-tier players, combined with Hayes’ tactical acumen, propelled them into contention for league titles and domestic honours. The evolution of key players, such as Fran Kirby and Ji So-yun, contributed significantly to the team’s success. Chelsea Women laid the foundation for a period of sustained excellence, setting the stage for their subsequent dominance in the Women’s Super League.

The 2014-2015 season saw another vital moment in their history as Chelsea secured the Women’s Super League (WSL) title for the first time, under the management of Emma Hayes. This success marked a new era for the club, establishing them as one of the top teams in English women’s football. The FA Cup was secured in a memorable triumph at Wembley Stadium, showcasing the team’s growing prowess and resilience.

Chelsea F moved to Kingsmeadow, a stadium located in Kingston upon Thames, at the beginning of the 2017-2018 season. Kingsmeadow, with its modern facilities and improved capacity, provided Chelsea FC Women and the Academy teams with a more suitable and dedicated venue for their home matches, marking a significant step in the club’s commitment to the development and growth of women’s football. Since the move, Chelsea have continuously seen large attendances for their matches.

The subsequent seasons saw Chelsea FC Women maintain their dominance, consistently clinching titles in the WSL, FA Cup, and Continental Cup. Notable victories included a Continental Cup triumph in 2019, where Bethany England’s brace secured a 2-1 victory, further solidifying the club’s standing among the football elite.

Last season was a rollercoaster of emotions, ultimately culminating in a triumphant fourth consecutive Women’s Super League title. Despite a rocky start with an unexpected defeat against Liverpool on the opening day, Emma Hayes’ side showcased resilience and determination. A series of outstanding performances, including a resounding 3-0 win over Tottenham and a massive 8-0 win against Leicester propelled Chelsea to the top of the table. Notable moments, such as Sam Kerr’s late equalizer against Arsenal and her incredible goal in the top-of-the-table clash with Manchester United, demonstrated the team’s character. A setback against Manchester City was swiftly overcome with a commanding 3-0 victory over Aston Villa, showcasing Chelsea’s ability to bounce back. The emotional farewell of captain Magdalena Eriksson and Pernille Harder, marked by a 2-0 victory over Arsenal, added sentiment to the final home game. Chelsea clinched the trophy on the last day with a 3-0 win against Reading, solidifying their dominance in women’s football and leaving fans in awe of a season filled with unforgettable moments.

As the end of the season approaches, Chelsea FC Women’s team faces the inevitable departure of their remarkable manager, Emma Hayes, leaving a void that will undoubtedly be felt by the passionate Chelsea fans. Hayes, a true icon in the world of women’s football, has not only led the team to numerous successes but has also become a beloved figure for her charisma, tactical brilliance, and unwavering commitment. Chelsea fans will miss her dynamic presence on the sidelines, her ability to inspire players, and the sense of unity she fostered within the squad. Hayes’ departure marks the end of an era for Chelsea Women, and the supporters will fondly reminisce about the glory days under her guidance. The impact she has had on the team and the broader women’s football community is immeasurable, and her legacy will undoubtedly endure, echoing through the cheers and memories of the devoted Chelsea faithful.

The journey of Chelsea FC Women is a saga of determination, evolution, and triumph. From modest beginnings to standing tall among the football elite, the club’s unwavering commitment to women’s football has left an enduring legacy. As they continue to pursue glory, Chelsea FC Women remain a symbol of resilience and success in the ever-evolving landscape of women’s football. The chapters of their storied history continue to be written, promising more moments of triumph and inspiration for generations to come.

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The view from France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset résume la 14ème journée de D1 Arkema. 6/2/24

Ci-dessus : Les OL ANG’ELLES, Fan club des féminines de Lyon, célébrant le 300^ème but d’Eugénie Le Sommer. Photo : Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

Fleury 1–1 Paris Saint-Germain

Après une grosse occasion pour chaque équipe, à la fin du premier quart d’heure pour le Paris SG et 5 minutes plus tard pour Fleury, c’est Fleury qui ouvre le score par Dominica Grabowska à la 19^ème minute de jeu sur un contre rondement mené par Rosemonde Kouassi qui termine son action par un superbe centre.

Paris SG accélère après le but de Fleury et se créé rapidement une grosse occasion détournée par Chloé N’Gazi, gardienne de Fleury. A la 28^ème minute de jeu, Chloé N’Gazi fait un nouvel arrêt devant Marie-Antoinette Katoto qui empêche Paris SG d’égaliser.

Paris SG continue à dominer largement mais Chloé N’Gazi fait un grand match et fait 2 autres sauvetages en première mi-temps.

Paris SG fait rentrer deux de ses habituelles titulaires à la mi-temps pour essayer de renverser le match : Sakina Karchaoui et Tabitha Chawinga remplacent respectivement, Korbin Albert et Laurina Fazer. De son côté Fleury renforce sa défense en faisant rentrer Assimina Maoulida à la place de Batcheba Louis.

A l’heure de jeu Paris SG concrétise enfin sa domination avec un tir de Sakina Karchaoui de 20 mètres qui trompe la gardienne de Fleury.Paris SG continue d’appuyer fort et se créé des occasions.

A 5 minutes de la fin Chloé N’Gazi, qui réalise un gros match, fait un nouveau sauvetage sur un tir de Ramona Bachmann. Puis 3 minutes plus tard elle détourne de nouveau un ballon de Tabitha Chawinga.

Un résultat nul qui ne satisfait aucune des deux équipes même si Fleury peut quand même remercier sa gardienne qui leur a permis de garder le 1-1 malgré les nombreuses occasions du Paris SG.

Buteuses : Fleury : Grabowska (19’). Paris SG : Karchaoui (61’).

Le Havre 4–2 Saint-Etienne

Un beau match et une belle victoire pour Le Havre contre Saint-Etienne, un concurrent direct pour le maintien. Avec cette victoire Le Havre repasse devant Saint-Etienne avec 2 points d’avance.

Ci-dessus : Inès Benyahia, Le Havre. Photo : Le Havre site web.

Inès Benyahia, Le Havre, prêtée par l’Olympique Lyonnais, réalise une nouvelle fois un gros match avec 1 but et 2 passes décisives.

A noter aussi la bonne performance de Katriina Talaslahti, gardienne de Le Havre, qui fait 2 sauvetages évitant à Saint-Etienne de revenir au score avant la fin de la première mi-temps.

Buteuses : Le Havre : Benyahia (18’), Demeyere (27’), Nadjim (53’), Gavory (73’). Saint-Etienne : Pierre-Louis (62’), Lamontagne (90’+2).

Bordeaux 1–1 Guingamp

Mauvaise opération pour Bordeaux qui concède le nul à la maison contre Guingamp qui se bat pour sortir de la zone dangereuse en bas du classement.

Buteuses : Bordeaux : Bourgouin (36’). Guingamp : Starova (8’).

Olympique Lyonnais 4–1 Reims

Un match sérieux et abouti pour l’Olympique Lyonnais qui n’a pas vraiment laissé de chance à Reims qui a pourtant essayé de jouer.

Il n’aura fallu qu’à peine 20 minutes pour que Lyon plie le match avec 2 buts d’Eugénie Le Sommer. Avec ces 2 buts, Eugénie Le Sommer, 34 ans, marque son 299^ème et 300^ème buts avec Lyon.

Ci-dessus : Eugénie Le Sommer, Lyon, en action. Photo : Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus71.

Après la demi-heure de jeu, c’est Sara Däbritz qui sécurise la victoire la victoire de Lyon avec un 3^ème but.

Sur un contre juste à la fin de la première mi-temps, les joueuses de Reims sont récompensées de leurs efforts et réduisent légèrement le score. Malgré cette défaite, Reims reste 4^ème au classement.

Buteuses : Lyon : Le Sommer (13’, 18’), Däbritz (34’), Hegerberg (49’). Reims : Chossenotte (45’).

Dijon 1-0 Montpellier

Dijon s’éloigne de la zone rouge en surprenant Montpellier dès la 2^ème minute de jeu. Montpellier fait une très mauvaise opération et laisse de ce fait la 4^ème place au classement à Reims.

Buteuse : Dijon : Jedlinska (2’).

Paris FC 3–2 Lille

Le match commence par une grosse occasion par Julie Rabanne pour Lille détournée en corner après 3 minutes de jeu. A la 11^ème minute c’est le Paris FC qui a une belle occasion par Matilde Bourdieu mais Elisa Launay lui prend le ballon dans les pieds.

Malgré une domination importante, le Paris FC n’a pas pu ouvrir le score en première mi-temps à cause, comme trop souvent, de trop d’imprécisions et d’efficacité en attaque et une très bonne performance d’Elisa Launay, gardienne de Lille.

Le Paris FC recommence la deuxième mi-temps en dominant de nouveau mais toujours de façon stérile et c’est Lille qui ouvre le score à la 65^èmeminute sur leur deuxième tir cadré.

Le Paris FC trouve enfin le chemin des filets à la 70^ème minute de jeu avec un but un peu « gag » mais qui leur permet d’égaliser. La joie des Parisiennes est de courte durée car Lille reprend les devants une minute plus tard par Lorena Lazzaro qui venait de rentrer en jeu.

Sur une belle tête de Kessya Bussy sur un coup franc de Gaëtane Thiney, le Paris FC égalise de nouveau.

Le Paris FC s’octroie la victoire à 30 secondes de la fin du match.

Buteuses : Paris FC : Korosec (70’, 90’+6), Bussy (76’). Lille : Ribeyra (65’), Azzaro (71’)..

Blades Secure Three Points In Their First Game Since Sacking of Jonathan Morgan

By Emily Wyatt 4/02/24

Above: Sheffield United, post-match vs Durham. Photo: Sportimage / Richard Lee

A very physical and competitive game in the Barclays Women’s Championship between two close sides unbelievably saw Sheffield come from behind and win 5-2 over Durham.

The match-up between these two sides was undoubtedly going to be a competitive tie after both teams had suffered losses in their previous games of the Barclays Women’s Championship last weekend, as well as it also being Sheffield’s first game since the sacking of their manager during the week. It would never be a question that both sides would want to come away with a secure win and get more points on the board.

The first half began with what looked like a very solid and secure Sheffield going forward. The side had multiple chances in the opening ten minutes, however they could not manage to find the back of the net. A few attempts from The Blades included a very early opportunity which ended up being cleared by Durham’s Salicki, the side went on to take another strike at goal which in the end went firing closely over the crossbar.

Despite the dominance from the visitors early in the game this didn’t intimidate Claire Ditchburn’s side and in the 19th minute The Blues’ number nine, Beth Hepple, went on to put the ball in the back of the net, settling both the team and the fans.

The side went on to have many more chances in the next ten minutes of the tie with The Blues’ Andrews making Sheffield’s number one work hard to pull off a huge save, declining the number nine to put away another goal in the back of the net. But the keeper could not hold the side off for too much longer as Durham’s number seven went on to score a second for the home side off the back of a corner.

However, despite the two-goal lead for The Blues in the first half an hour, the away side were still hungry for a breakthrough goal and that is what they eventually got after a powerful header from Tara Bourne in the 30th minute. After this, it was clear that Sheffield’s confidence was re-boosted as they went on to dominate the rest of the first half.

The Blades went on to claim a free kick, taken by their number nine. Despite a good save from Durhams’ McAloon, Sheffield received a penalty after a defending Durham gave away a foul in the box. Calmly, Rayner put away the opportunity securely which left both sides level at 2-2 going into the break.

HALF-TIME: Durham 2-2 Sheffield

Once the whistle blew to signify the beginning of the second half, the visitors were attacking instantly in the search for their third of the day. Only seconds later Sigsworth was celebrating her first goal, putting the home side behind for the first time in this game. Sheffield went on to dominate the game in the following moments, creating many chances and claiming corners waiting to put more chances in the back of the net.

Claire Ditchburn made a change in the 60th minute, bringing on Erin Nicholson for Olivia Bramley, hoping to regain control of the game and get themselves back into the battle.

However, only moments later, Durham’s McAloon gave a penalty away to the opposition after committing a foul when trying to pull out a save to prevent her team from going another goal behind. Undoubtedly, Sheffield’s number ten put an unsavable ball into the back of The Blues net, now putting them five to two in front.

Despite being behind by two goals the home side was not going to give up. More substitutions were made for the side with Ella Wilson, coming on for Grace Ayre while McAloon made a sensational save after going one on one with the opposition’s number ten.

No matter what they did, Sheffield did not come back down and went on to score another goal with Issy Goodwin making a small chip on the keeper.

In the end, it was a 5-2 win for Sheffield over Durham after a dominant comeback from being two goals behind in the fixture’s first opening moments. Claire Ditchburn’s blues will want to claim a win in two weeks where they will play away to London City Lionesses. She stated that “it was obviously a tough one to take” but the side had “a positive first half”.

Durham: McAloon, Briggs, Bramley, Robson, Hepple, Lambert (C), Andrews, Salicki,
Bradley, Ayre, Ryan-Doyle.
Substitutes: Saunders, E Wilson, Noonan, Nicholson.

Scorers: Andrews 10’ Hepple 19’

Sheffield United: Stenson, Newsham, Barker, Bourne, Sigsworth, Rayner,
Goodwin, Haywood, Kinzett, Brown, Connolly-Jackson
Substitutes: Davies, Docherty, Graham, Hodson, May, Wilcock, Muir,
A.Brown, Butler

Scorers: Bourne 25’, Goodwin 44’, 64’,90+5’, Sigsworth 46’

Attendance: TBC

Points shared between Reds and Spurs

Liverpool 1 – 1 Tottenham Hotspur

By Fran Lever 5/2/24

Above: Tottenham players after their draw away to Liverpool Photo: THFC

In a scrappy game that was hard to call at time, it was draw for the middle of the table teams Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Before the game, Liverpool sat in fifth place and Tottenham Hotspur sat in sixth place. Both teams have showed so much potential this season. Liverpool won their opening game of the season at the Emirates and won against Manchester United in December. Tottenham have been improving under a new manager and new signings but had huge losses to both sides of Manchester.

The game between the two sides promised to help write the script for the rest of the season and potentially suggest how the middle of the table was going to look by the end of the season.

This is the Women’s Super League in 2024 though. Nothing is clear as it was, the traditional top four might not be safe and the game ended in a draw which will keep fans guessing.

Liverpool’s midfield looked magic at times and Fuka Nagano and Missy Bo Kearns both shone as they tried to create chances for their team.

Tottenham’s new signing Charlotte Grant and their loanee from Juventus Amanda Nildén helped shut down any attempts. Grant saw a yellow for her defensive efforts, with Liverpool fans chanting towards the end she should have seen a second for a risky challenge.

Grant’s yellow was not the only one that was shown to the Lilywhites. A further four were shown to Kit Graham, Martha Thomas, Jessica Naz and Wang Shuang throughout the game.

Grace Clinton again proved how she has transformed Tottenham’s midfield. She was able to create many chances for the team but that is where Tottenham are currently struggling because they are struggling to find their rhythm with two up front.

Martha Thomas was in more of a goal scoring form before Christmas she had whilst covering Bethany England, who has recently returned from the injury that had her sidelined.

England scored 12 in 12 WSL games last season following her move from Chelsea whilst Thomas has scored seven in the WSL this season since her move from Manchester United including the winner of the North London Derby in December.

It was not until Thomas was the only one on the pitch out of the two, she was able to assist Celin Bizet for the goal and break down Liverpool’s defence. The same as when she scored against Arsenal.

Is it coincidence or is something not clicking yet between the two players and does Robert Vilahamn need to go back to the drawing board with the team still being in three competitions?

Liverpool struggled against Tottenham’s defence but they were eventually able to break them down with a late goal from Marie Höbinger. Their biggest chances to create a bigger scoreline though were in the first half with the creative efforts of the midfield but again, like their opponents the chances were unable to be finished. Both sides have two up front and it does not work with both their soild midfields and defence, they do not have the freedom to run.

Gemma Bonner is an unsung hero for Liverpool’s defence and did not help towards Tottenham’s current striker issue. Bonner was frequently to break the attack down. She is a soild part of Matt Beard’s side and defence. Overall, the team would have conceded more without her.

Both teams had the power of super subs. Naz was able to add speed to Tottenham’s side and it was Höbinger who scored the goal to bring Liverpool level. The goal came with an assist from another sub, Melissa Lawley – who made her 100th appearance during the game. Both the Liverpool subs made the difference for the reds which is something Beard may need to go away and think about.

The game was lackluster at times so Liverpool and Tottenham will be happy to leave with at least a point from the effects but will be wishing they were able to do more.

With the game, they both still sit at the same positions in the Women’s Super League table and the middle of the table battle continues.

LIVERPOOL (3-5-2)

Laws; Bonner, Fahey, Fisk; Koivisto, Kearns, Nagano, Holland, Matthews; van de Sanden, Román Haug

Substitutes: Parry, Keirnan, Höbinger, Lawley

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (4-4-2)

Votikova; Grant, Turner, Bartrip, Nildén, Bizet, Ahtinen, Summanen, Clinton; England, Thomas

Substitutes: Naz, Petzelberger, Graham, Wang

Scorers: Höbinger 90+1’ , Bizet 71’

Referee: Lauren Impey

Attendance: 1,979

Millwall Lionesses go out fighting in the league cup.

Millwall 2-3 Dartford

By Myles Thornton 5/2/24

Above: Shannan Drewe Photo: Tom West Photography

Millwall Lionesses were defeated late on by Dartford, who are top of their respective league, in the London and South East Regional Women’s League Cup.

It was always going to be a gritty game at Princes Park, and the lionesses showed a great sign of intent from minute one.

Just before the half time break, Shannan Drewe opened the scoring, she found the ball at her feet just outside of the area and smashed home a great volley to fire the lionesses into the lead.

Former Millwall academy player Paris Smith got one back for the Darts on 53 minutes. A good goal, and hope was restored for the hosts.

It wasn’t long though and the lionesses were ahead again, Northern Ireland international Ciara Watling done well to play a pass to Emma Whitter, who found new signing Madison Grandys, and the American got her first goal for the club.

Dartford got back on level terms though after the referee gave a penalty that not one Dartford player or staff member called for, Nicha Dyett stepped up and slotted the penalty down the right hand side.

Very late drama then as Dartford had a shot from the edge of the area that hit the post and, unfortunately for Millwall, Lizzie Adams was there to tap it home and grab a last gasp winner at the death of the game.

Dartford progress into the semi finals of the London and South East Regional Women’s League Cup, and Millwall Lionesses will feel they didn’t deserve to lose that game as, for most of it, they were the better side.

Millwall will look to get back to winning ways as they next face Sutton United Ladies at St Paul’s Sports Ground in the league on February 11th, and Dartford will host Aylesford also in the league.

Millwall: Wiggins, Seely, Payne, Bailey, Butler (C), Chapman, Grandys, Whitter, Napper, Drewe, Burr. Subs: Bennett, Jones, Sherwood, Garwood, McGregor.

Scorers: Drewe, Grandys

Dartford: Charlton, Hinds, Woodgates, Adams, Griffiths, Dyett, Alberts, Powell, Howell, Cleary, Smith. Subs: McKeag, Davis, Vaughan, Woodhouse.

Scorers: Smith, Dyett, Adams

Attendance: TBC

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West Ham defeat Arsenal in crucial game for both teams

By Joseph Rosedon 5/2/24

Above: West Ham celebrate their win over Arsenal at home. Photo: Ben Phillips for Impetus71

West Ham 2 Arsenal 1

West Ham stunned title-chasing Arsenal with a comeback victory, sealing their first WSL victory against the North London side.

Second-half goals from French duo Viviane Asseyi and HawaCissoko gave West Ham a famous victory.

From the start West Ham deployed a deep block to stifle Arsenal’s attacks. Katrina Gorry in particular employed dogged defensive work in the midfield areas whilst providing important forward passes to relieve pressure.

The North London side used attacking triangles down the right-hand side to open up the stubborn defence but their first chance came from a goalmouth scramble Matilda’s starting goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold tipping a looped effort over the bar and punching away the subsequent corner.

Arsenal came close again. Vivianne Miedema shimmied her way into the box with intricate footwork but was denied by a brilliant last-ditch tackle from match-winner Cissoko

Miedema’s footwork again found space in the West Ham box, this time however her effort cannoned off the bar. It felt that a goal was inventible.

It was her strike partner Alessia Russo who broke the deadlock. Steph Catley found Russo unmarked at the far post from a corner. The England international stooped low to head home to give Arsenal the lead.

After so much Arsenal dominance in the first half, West Ham needed a strong start to the second half if they were to get anything from the game.

Indeed, they did. Catley, who assisted Arsenal’s opener let West Ham back into the game. The left-back gave away a penalty.

Asseyi did the rest, coolly slotted away past Manuela Zinsberger in the Arsenal goal.

The team in Claret and Blue soon made it 2-1. Zinsberger failed to clear a West Ham free kick sufficiently. The ball fell to Cissoko who curled the ball home with a stunning left-footed effort from inside of the box.

In response Arsenal made a triple substitution, bringing on Cloe Lacasse, Stina Blackstenius and Matilda’s midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross but failed to make a significant impact on the game as West Ham were able to cling on to victory.

Russo had chances to add to her goal tally but failed to convert while Lacasse may have felt she should have had a penalty. Blackstenius also had an effort saved by Arnold at her near post.

A third loss for Arsenal this season leaves serious question marks about their title challenge. All three of these losses have come against teams outside of the traditional “Top 4”.

For West Ham, a vital victory in their Women’s Super League survival bid, extended the gap between them and Bristol City at the foot of the WSL table.

After the match, West Ham manager Rehanne Skinner said “I’m absolutely delighted with the grit, determination, and the attitude of the players from start to finish today.

Players were putting bodies on the line, in and out of possession, trying to work and get opportunities. And I think we were diligent and disciplined, and I think it’s a massive credit to the players. I think they were outstanding today”.

Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall said “I expected West Ham to come out and press a little bit more aggressively than they did.

I do think we missed the last qualitative bit in scoring a second goal, trying to break down their low block”

West Ham: Arnold, Tysiak, Zardorsky, Cissoko Shimiziu, Hayashi Gorry, Ziu Smith, Asseyi, Ueki(

Subs:Lundin, Harries, Mewis, Denton, Cooke, Walsh, O’Hanlon, Ademiluyi

Goals: Asseyi (50) Cissoko(58)

Arsenal: Zinsberger, Fox, Wubben-Moy, Williamson Catley, Walit, Pelova Miedema Foord Mead Russo

Subs: D’Angelo, Codina, Williams, Ilestdt, Cooney-Cross, Lacasse, Blackstenius, Maanum, Little

Goals: Russo (43) Asseyi (50) Cissoko(58)

Attendance: 4,172.

Jets down the Nix in thriller

Newcastle Jets 3-2 Wellington Phoenix

By Ryan Miller-Woods 4/2/24

Above: Newcastle Jets celebrate their win. Photo Newcastle Jets FC

In a highly enthralling match that had a combined total of 37 shots between both teams and five goals, Newcastle Jets achieved their first win in three rounds.

The 3-2 victory over Wellington Phoenix has moved the Jets up into eighth position on the A-League Women’s ladder now just one point away from the Top Six.

Wellington opened the scoring as Isabel Cox crossed the ball into the box for in-form striker Mariana Speckmaier. In the scramble she beat the Newcastle defenders and slotted the ball past Isobel Nino into the bottom left corner for her fourth goal in three matches and seventh of the A-League Women’s season. It made her the all-time leading goalscorer for the Phoenix in the league ahead of ex-Wellington player Grace Jale.

Despite not scoring in the first twenty minutes Newcastle looked dangerous in parts. They made chances, especially from set-pieces which the Jets kept the Phoenix on their toes. The Phoenix looked really strong in terms of their passages in play with Cox and McMeeken playing really important roles in how Wellington built up the field.

The Jets had a very good opportunity to equalise in the 27th minute thanks to Cassidy Davis whose cross in the box just missed Sarina Bolden.

Six minutes later, Newcastle found their equaliser as Zoe Karipidis put a ball into the box intended for Bolden but instead went past Wellington’s Brianna Edwards into the bottom left corner.

In the 38thminute, Newcastle came very close to taking the lead as Lauren Allen crossed the ball into the box. Bolden’s header was spectacularly denied by Edwards with an outstanding piece of goalkeeping.

Five minutes into the second half, Newcastle took the lead thanks to Copus-Brown. Her first-time shot from outside the box flew over Edwards and into the back of the net for her first goal of the season. Given how they went in the first half from an attacking perspective and how they started this half, the Jets took a deserved lead in the match.

In the 56th minute, Wellington levelled the scoring after Macey Fraser provided a beautiful through ball for Cox. She went around the keeper and laid the ball into the bottom left corner for her second goal of the season.

Nine minutes later, Newcastle regained their lead after Bolden controlled the ball with a great turn in the box where her shot curled past Edwards into the bottom right corner.

In the first minute of stoppage time for the second half, Wellington came close to equalising thanks to McMeeken whose cross in the box found Hailey Davidson. Her shot came off the post but in the end that wouldn’t have mattered as the Phoenix were deemed to have been offside.

Teams: Newcastle Jets (4-3-3): Nino, Baumann, Davis, Wilson, Karipidis, Copus-Brown, Dundas, Hoban, L. Allan, Bolden, Barbieri. Substitutes: Rochaix, Prior, Huynh, Hammond, Gooch.

Scorers: Karipidis 33’, Copus Brown 50’, Bolden 65’.

Wellington Phoenix (4-3-3): Edwards, M. Foster, Barry, Jaber, Davidson, Fraser, Taylor, Longo, McMeeken, Speckmaier, Cox. Substitutes: Danieli, Whinham, Breslin, Main, Elliott.

Scorers: Speckmaier 4’, Cox 56’.

Referee: Caitlin Williams.

Attendance: TBC.

Canberra’s counter attacks defeat City

Canberra United 3-1 Melbourne City

By Kieran Yap 4/2/24

Above: Laura Hughes (Left) battles for possession with Canberra United’s Sarah Clarke. Photo: Canberra United

A determined defensive display and Michelle Heyman at her best delivered Canberra United a 3-1 win against Melbourne City at Mckellar Park.

From a glance at the table, this match between the first and last placed teamed in the league was not the most eye catching fixture. But these were the two highest scoring sides, with the moster entertaining attacks. Canberra United’s season has not been smooth sailing, but for neutrals, every match delivers goals and with Heyman leading the line, there is always reason to hope for a result.

Melbourne City arrived in the capital with a disrupted lead up to the match. Versatile fullback Kaitlyn Torpey was absent as she finalized a move overseas, and Melissa Barbieri stepped in to replace Lysianne Proulx who was also completing a transfer. Dario Vidosic was already missing Julia Grosso and was forced into a reshuffle, although it would be impossible to replicate that pace of Grosso and Torpey on both flanks.

The result was Karly Roestbakken starting against the side where she played her youth football, and a front three that was well stocked in creativity but lacking in out and out line breaking speed.

Canberra’s defence sat deep and counterattacked at pace. Nikki Flannery had the first good chance of the game in the 30^th minute. She was put through on goal by Heyman but fired her shot straight at Barbieri from close range. City continued to dominate possession and knock the ball around their final third, but could not find a way past the Canberra United back four with Teagan Bertolissio and Sasha Grove both brilliant on the flanks. In the middle Sarah Clarke and Cannon Clough made space and time a scarcity for Hannah Wilkinson and Rhianna Pollicina.

Canberra broke the deadlock twice before half time. A long ball from defence was latched onto by Heyman. The star striker disposed of her first maker with a clever turn of the body, and then nodded the ball beyond the next defender. She was in space but there was still 30 yards between her and the goal. With the City defence rushing back, Heyman paused, cut inside and delayed her shot before slotting it beyond Barbieri to make it 1-0.

That lead was doubled on the 39^th minute. A Flannery cutback on the right was met by Mary Stanic-Floody. The playmaker did not hesitate to pull the trigger and her effort flew into the back of the net from the edge of the box. Canberra went into the break 2-0 up and relishing the contest.

With City in the unfamiliar position of having to chase the game, Dario Vidosic made the changes. Kiera Myers, Tijan Mckenna and Bryleeh Henry were all introduced, but Canberra were still able to absorb the pressure no matter who was on the pitch, Myers was creative on the right, but the attack still lacked a cutting edge, and while Henry provided some spark on the opposite wing, she was often too far away from goal to test Chloe Lincoln, although the came close on a couple of opportunities.

With Wilkinson missing on international duty next week a move of Henry into the number nine role might be an option for Vidosic to explore.

Canberra effectively sealed the contest with a third goal in the second half. Henry was about to send City into attack again, but Grove somehow dashed back and took possession cleanly. She played the pass quickly to Vesna Milivojevic and the ball was launched upfield towards Heyman.

The Canberra captain was unable to get the shot away herself, but a combination of passes with Deven Jackson ended with a cross to the far post where Flannery was able to tap home.

City pulled a late goal back when Taylor Otto forced the ball over from close range but were unable to find the crucial next goal to make the home crowd nervous. The match ended 3-1 and although neither side’s ladder position changed, it was a huge result for Canberra United.

They are not out of contention for a finals spot, and seemed to have found a combination of personnel that work well together and a game plan that suits them. On this occasion, Canberra United’s strengths matched up with City’s weaknesses to devastating effect and not every team will be as susceptible to counter attacks, but this will be a huge confidence boost for Njegosh Popovich.

Lineups:

Canberra United 4-4-1-1: Lincoln, Grove, Clough, Clarke, Bertolissio, Jackson, Mckenzie, Stanic-Floody, Flannery. Substitutes: Murray, Rojas, Nathan, Christopherson, Majstorovic.

Scorers: Heyman 30, Stanic-Floody 39’ Flannery 74’

Melbourne City 4-2-2-2: Barbieri, Chinnama, Stott, Otto, Roestbakken, Hughes, L Mckenna, Ekic, Galic, Pollicina, Wilkinson. Substitutes: Meyers, Davidson, T Mckenna, Henry, Varley

Scorer: Taylor Otto 91’

Referee: Bec Mackie

Attendance: TBC

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Western win at their Hobart home

Western United 2-1 Central Coast Mariners

By Kieran Yap 3/2/24

Western United have continued their march up the ladder with a 2-1 win against Central Coast Mariners despite some late scares in front of goal.

Kat Smith’s side arrived in Hobart as the hosts and looking to continue their strong form that has seen them only lose once since mid-December. Central Coast had experienced some inconsistent results, but have been in strong form and after welcoming back Kyah Simon to the squad last week they suddenly looked even stronger on paper.

The match itself began in frantic style. Western United captain and Philippines international Jaclyn Sawicki opened the scoring in just the second minute with a close range effort past Sarah Langman. The midfielder has been deployed further forward in her second season at the club and has been coming closer to scoring each week. She received the ball wide in the panelty area and cut inside the first defender before sending the ball into the back of the net with relative ease.

The Mariners looked surprised to concede so early, but responded almost instantly. Rola Badawiya reacted quickest to a partially blocked strike and slotted the ball past Hillary Beall. Six minutes had been played and the score was 1-1.

Each side had their potential game breakers. Badwiya continued to threaten throughout the half, and the dangerous striker had a goal disallowed for a foul on Grace Maher after a push in the back sent the defender to the turf.

At the other end, Chloe Logazro was looking ominous. Her freedom in attack allowed her to create chances and get on the end of some. Her lunging volleyed effort had a high degree of difficulty, but the Australian international is capable of scoring from those opportunities.

Western United re-took the lead before half time. Adriana Taranto’s long range strike bounced off the crossbar and Hannah Keane was able to control the shot, hold off a challenge and blast the ball into the net to make it 2-1.

Central Coast searched aggressively for an equaliser in the second half. Isabel Gomez and Bianca Galic were tireless throughout and Peta Trimis continued to scheme in midfield, but chances became scarcer as the afternoon wore on.

Both teams were looking for that extra goal and the substitutions reflected two managers with attack on their mind. Kahli Johnson was brought on for Western United, while Emily Husband played her enviable trump card by introducing Kyah Simon and Shay Evans into the fray.

Both strikers made an impact. Evans’ pace almost put her in on goal after some neat interplay at the edge of the box, and Simon had a headed chance narrowly miss before a late first time effort was hit at Beall.

The Mariners attacking display was worthy of at least a point, but the game was managed in professional and at time cynical style by Western United with Stacey Papadopoulos tugging back Anabelle Martin to prevent a late breakaway.

The win saw Western jump up to second on the ladder, they still trail Melbourne City by at least three points, but are above Sydney FC based on having won more matches this season.

Next up, Kat Smith’s side faces a dangerous Brisbane Roar, while Central Coast Mariners will host Melbourne Victory in Gosford.

Lineups:

Western United 3-5-2: Beall, Cerne, Maher, Dakic, Papadopoulos, A Taranto, Sawicki, M Taranto, Hieda, Logarzo, Keane. Substitutes: Johnson, Prakash, Sardo, Dall’ Oste, Robers

Scorers: Sawicki 2’ Keane 28’

Central Coast Mariners 4-2-3-1: Langman, Bryson, Karambasis, Irwin, Wardlow, Gomez, Galic, Badawiya, Trimis, Hayward, Wurigumula. Substitutes: Martin, Rasmussen, Simon, Evans, Dumont.

Scorer: Badawiya 6’

Referee: Isabella Blaess

Attendance: TBC

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