Above: Alamein vs South Melbourne. Photo: Centre Circle Photography
Game week 3 of the NPLW, Easter round saw some dramatic finishes, some great comebacks and plenty of top quality strikes.
Box Hill suffered their 3rd straight defeat to start the season, going down 1-0 to Preston Lions. A good ball through saw the Pythagorean keeper Natasha Statopoulous come off her line and taking our Lions Miri Nishamura in the 81st minute. Nishimura calmly rolled the spot kick into the bottom right corner to give Preston a 2-0 start to the season.
FV Emerging seem to be on the wrong end of some absolute worldies, with Olivia Bomford for Bentleigh Greens hitting a volley from outside the box with pace and precision right into the top corner in the 32nd minute. However, goals in the 29thfrom Eva Kokotis and another goal for Carina Rossi in the 54thsealed a 2-1 win for FV who continue their unbeaten start.
31:05: GOAL! Bentleigh Greens SC score to make it FVE 1 : BGFC 1.
Calder United converted two spot kicks, first from Akeisha Sandhu in the 24th minute and then in the 60th minute, with Mami Ambo stepping up to convert. Nicole Cooper for Brunswick was on the end of a wonderful ball from Emilie Keppens to tap in a goal in the 8th minute. Looking for a late, late, late equaliser in the dying minutes, Juventus send long ball after loing ball until finally, Keppens brought one down, but keeper Shanel Camilleri was out quick to make the block. As the ball was cleared to just outside the box and the keeper well out of her girl, Emma Perrone went for a long range shot, looping it into the corner of the net and sealing a dramatic 2-2score to keep their unbeaten start alive.
21:10: GOAL! Alamein W score to make it SMFC 0 : AFC 1.
South Melbourne hosted Alamein, and it was the visitors with the early lead against the run of play. Rebecca Saber scoring in the 22nd minute. South Melbourne down 1-nil at the break came out in the second half with more intent, and a goal from Dragana Kljajic in the 49th levelled the game. Tayla Christensen converting from the spot in the 81st and it looked like Alamein, for all their effort would leave with nothing. Some lovely play from Sidney Allen saw Ashleigh Lefevre with the ball in the box, latching onto it and scoring in the 88thminute to end the game 2-2.
Boroondara-Carey faced FFC Bulleen Lions, the top 2 teams from last season. In a high scoring game, FC Bulleen took the points, with a brace from Maja Markovski (3’76’), an Alana Cortellino (67’) header and an own goal from Eagles defender Cassie Carmen. Anais Josefski (17’ 63’) shone for the Eagles, with a brace of her own, a goal in both halves. The final score 2-4.
Easter Monday game pitted Heidelberg United up against Essendon Royals have been playing some fantastic football in their top tier debut. A brace for Audrey Oastler with goals in the 18th and 54th minutes, plus a Reona Omiya goal in the 53’ was enough to seal a second win for thr Royals, despite a late goal from Keely Lockhart in the 78th. The final score 1-3.
Above: Pompey thank their fans after their win over Rugby Borough at Fratton Park. Photo: Jason Brown.
It’s a great time to be a Portsmouth fan. The men’s team are top of League One and on the cusp of promotion to the Championship. While Jay Sadler’s Pompey Women are close to confirming their promotion to the FA Women’s Championship (FAWC).
Three points against Plymouth Argyle this Sunday will not guarantee the FA Women’s National League (FA WNL) Southern Premier Division title, Pompey would have all bar one little finger on the trophy.
Presuming that their main competition, Hashtag United, overcome Ipswich Town as well then they would remain six points adrift, needing Pompey to lose all their remaining two matches and conceding forty goals in the process.
This is the first season that the FA WNL are promoting both Northern and Southern Division winners.
In previous years, promotion would have been decided in a play-off match between Northern and Southern Division winners. However, with two teams now dropping out of the FAWC it will spare one team the heartbreak – the likely winners look to be Newcastle United, they currently have a thirteen-point lead over Burnley in second.
Beth Lumsden may well be in line for two medals this season. She began the season with Portsmouth after joining from Southampton in the summer. Sixteen goals in seventeen appearances caught the attention of the Magpies and Lumsden made the move north in January.
The last time Portsmouth came this close to promotion to the second tier was back in 2015 when they took on Sheffield FC for a place in what was then known as the Women’s Super League Two. It was Lisa Giampalma who broke Pompey hearts when she scored the only goal in added time.
After last season’s fourth-placed finish, the club clearly took notice and in June the club announced that the women’s team will be integrated alongside the men’s team under the ownership of The Tornante Company. This was part of a move that will see new investment into the women’s team, allowing many of the first team squad to sign semi-professional contracts for the first time at the club.
Georgie Freeland holds off Kim Fuller of Moneyfields in the FA WNL Cup. Photo: Sheena Booker
While Pompey have led from the front for most of the season you can forgive many fans for trying to keep their feet on the ground. After all, they say it’s the hope that kills you. Ian Chiverton from the YouTube channel Pompey Women’s Vlogs described to me the match where he really started to believe.
Ian said, “For me, the game where I really felt we had the squad to challenge for promotion was Plymouth away on 15 Oct. We won the game 3-1 but it was such a difficult match. A challenging playing surface, a large boisterous home crowd and a fired-up Plymouth side.
“We had to give everything and had the quality in the final third to win the game. It showed we could rough it in the difficult away games and get three points. A critical attribute you need to win a league.”
This is apt given that Pompey’s opponents are the same Plymouth side this weekend.
Argyle are nine places lower than their opponents and while they recently turned heads with a 2-2 draw against Hashtag United I cannot see a scenario where Pompey do not come away with a win in front of a jubilant home crowd.
Ian added, “This season we have never let the opposition dedicate how we approach a game or play out the match. We do our thing and they have to deal with us. The squad has an exquisite balance, no matter the challenges they have faced there has always been the players in the squad to overcome it.
“Bringing in experienced players like Lumsden, Rutherford. Freeman and Casley then balancing that out with enthusiastic youth in the likes of Pitman and Humphrey has given Jay Sadler the arsenal to overcome every challenge thrown at the squad.”
In the build-up to the match, Sadler told me, “It’s been a fantastic season for us so far. The consistency levels this group have shown has been remarkable. It hasn’t been without its challenges, and when faced with adversity we’ve ran towards it.
“That resilience has transferred throughout our performances and although everyone is enjoying their football right now, there still remains a focus and humility.
“We work on a game-by-game process. Plymouth have proved to be a dangerous side this season, competing with the top sides in this league. We certainly won’t be taking this game lightly.”
However, if I am right then while the league trophy will not be presented after the match, Pompey fans will not have to wait long until the team’s captain, Hannah Haughton, is lifting the trophy.
Above: Mackenzie Arnold in action at training in Florida. Image: Rachel Bach/Football Australia.
By Genevieve Henry(4/4/24).
Impetus’ Genevieve Henry spoke to Mackenzie Arnold following another day of camp in Florida with the Matildas. An unusual camp, with a week of just training without a match to interrupt the flow, Arnold discussed the importance of this period to change and advance Australia’s gameplay, as well as how playing for West Ham United and the Matildas compliment each other.
“It’s different to what we’re used to, but I think it gives us the best chance to prepare for how we want to play. It comes at the perfect time, just to really get a solid seven days together, really working on that, and not being interrupted by a midweek game. So yeah, it’s really worked out and it’s really beneficial for this time of year.”
While it’s mostly business as usual for the goalkeepers this camp, Arnold hinted that they have been working on something new. “We’re trying to do a new playing style and trying to focus on a couple of different things. I guess it’s sort of just adjusting to each other and playing in the national team– we don’t get to do that too often.”
While playing out from the back–something the Matildas have tried as of late– comes with both advantages and disadvantages, it’s something Arnold embraces. “I love playing out from the back, to be honest. I feel like I’ve always been quite comfortable with my feet. West Ham are trying to do a similar thing, so I feel like I’m really learning in both environments. I’m glad that we’re playing that way and I hope it works out.” She continued, “as a goalkeeper, my position is obviously quite similar in how we want to play at West Ham to the national team, so it’s helping me a tremendous amount trying to prepare for these Olympic Games.”
One challenge the Matildas are facing is the injury to midfield maestro Katrina Gorry, Arnold’s club teammate at West Ham. Arnold confirmed that she had undergone surgery a few days ago, but that she had no clear timeline or news about her availability for the Olympics. While a sidelined Gorry is a big loss for both club and country, it has not put a dent in either’s ambitions.
Above: Arnold and teammates celebrating their win over Arsenal in February. Image: Ben Phillips for Impetus.
West Ham’s acquisition of Gorry seemed to be a turning point for the club, now 7 points safe from relegation, with some excellent results against top opposition. The Hammers will hope her absence will not negatively impact the remainder of their season. Arnold reflected on the progress the club has made, saying, “we’re playing the best football we’ve played since I’ve been there, so it’s hard to differentiate our results from how we’ve been playing. I’ve really enjoyed it this year and I feel like we’re really taking positive strides.”
Arnold, club captain, will be out of contract at West Ham at the conclusion of the season, but emphasised the fact that she is just focusing on the season at the moment. “I haven’t really dived too much into it yet, to be honest. I’m still in the midst of the season, just trying to get points and stay above relegation…We’ll see at the end of the season.”
“Before the World Cup I was sort of able to just focus on myself, try to play the best that I can, and try to get a spot in the World Cup roster. But, I think now since the captaincy, I’ve taken on a lot more responsibility. It has its good and bad, but I’m enjoying the challenge and love leading the girls out. There are definitely new lessons that I’m trying to adjust to in the West Ham environment, but I think when I come back here I’m able to just be myself and take a backseat.”
Above: Michelle Heyman speaking from the Matildas camp in Florida. Image: Football Australia.
Heyman: Experience and age is a gift
Michelle Heyman is buzzing. That trademark smile is even wider than before. This is a 35-year-old striker at the top of her form and having the absolute time of her life in the process.
“It’s the best feeling. I feel so lucky, so privileged, and honoured to be a part of the squad. It’s so nice to be back in the environment doing the job I love,” the Canberra United attacker enthused.
A return to the national team after six years away saw Heyman bag five goals in the two-legged Olympic qualifier against Uzbekistan at the end of February. She reflected on just how crazy things have been in the five weeks since.
“My life’s changed a lot! I always knew that I could do this job and be back in this squad, so I just wanted to come out here and prove a point to other people and myself that I was still good enough to be here. My life now ever since Melbourne (and the second leg of the Uzbekistan game) has been a different world. The amount of support that I get from fans and the amount of people coming out to games to cheer on Canberra United, it’s just been wild.”
“To hear so many little kids scream out ‘Heyman! Heyman!’ it’s really sweet… I’m just happy, it’s just nice.”
Michelle Heyman on life since her Matildas return against Uzbekistan.
Heyman came back to a Matildas team unlike any other that came before it. Off the back of a sensational home World Cup where they captured the nation in a way that still sends shivers down the spine thinking back, this is a group idolised. It’s so different to the Canberra United star’s previous experiences with the squad.
“Everything about it has changed. I’ve never been in such a professional environment. I debuted (for the Matildas) in 2010 – to where we are today. I don’t think there are many things that are similar minus the players. It’s a whole lot of the same girls, which is just incredible, but everything on the outside from that squad has changed. To be treated so well, like a professional athlete to be able to be so successful in a training camp allows you to be the best you can be.
Above: Michelle Heyman in training with The Matildas in Florida. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“I have more confidence in myself now because everyone believes in you. You have the full support from everyone within this squad. It just makes your life so much easier and it’s a joy to play for your country.
“I enjoy being able to support players, being able to be that bounce number nine who holds the ball up, and that quick movement off the ball really suits my style – but the amount of k’s that we’re doing in games is a lot higher than before. I remember the stats back in the day when I would run eight or nine k’s, now, every game I’m doing 10 to 11 – so it’s revved up…and made the quality of the football a lot more entertaining.
“I felt confident in myself, and that came with age. I knew what my role was as a player and I didn’t need to think too much about everyone else around me. It was just focusing on what I needed to do to get back into the squad…I had a good conversation with Tony (Gustavsson, head coach) so I knew what he wanted from me and that was my number one focus – that was to get into the box and score goals – and that I can do!”
Heyman is loving every second of her time back in the national squad, and playing better than ever as a direct result – something she also links to the benefits of age and experience. She wants to ensure that this opportunity is one that does not end any time soon.
“I want to enjoy every minute. You never know how long your career can go for…I want to experience this incredible environment – I want to be part of the Matildas again. My goal is the Olympics – I’m going to be pushing for that squad. I’m going to do everything I can to get into that team, but right now my main focus is for this camp.”
“I’m just so much smarter these days, it’s fantastic! Experience and age is a gift, and I look at my 25-year-old self, and I wish I knew everything then that I know now. I think it’s better than ever being older because I understand the game more.
“I’ve been around for a lot longer, and I’ve been able to watch these girls play for a number of years so I knew exactly what needed to be done for my role, so age is fantastic! I love getting older! I’m keeping up with the young ones, so it’s making me feel really good about myself!
“I knew I could score goals, but when I got that call back to The Matildas, it gave me that little bit extra because it was getting that approval from the national team to say that I’ve still got it.
Yallop: “Mexico are going to be very competitive”
Above: Tameka Yallop speaking from the Matildas’ Florida base. Image: Football Australia.
Australia midfielder Tameka Yallop is expecting a tough and exciting encounter when the Matildas face Mexico next week.
Speaking from the team’s Florida training base, the Brisbane Roar star said: “I think it’s going to be an exciting match and a good test for us. It’s an excellent opportunity to see how we’re going with the style of play that we’re trying to implement and they are going to be competitive, they are a footballing country, they are very passionate about their football, so it’s going to be a very exciting and competitive match.”
Yallop comes into camp after a strong season back in the A-League Women where she has been used in a more attacking role for the Roar than she has been deployed in for a while.
“I’ve loved being back at home, back in Queensland. I think the time to come back to the A-League was definitely after the World Cup – there was just so much excitement and you can still feel it flowing in Australia. You also saw that with the competitiveness of the league this year.
“It’s exciting for me, it’s where I definitely feel I’m at my best and my most creative, which is what I definitely enjoy about football.”
Above: Tameka Yallop puts in a cross for Australia against Iran last year. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Yallop is joined in the Matildas squad by her Brisbane Roar teammate Sharn Freir for the first time, and the midfielder revealed just how much Freir is revelling in her call-up.
“I don’t think I’ve seen her smile so much in her whole life! It’s really exciting to have her here and our whole Brisbane Roar team is just super excited as well. She’s got a lot of support coming in and it’s nice for her to have a familiar face in myself, but she does know other players, she’s been in A-League for a while and she’s fitting in well.
“She’s an exciting player. Her one-on-one skills are excellent and I think Australia will be pretty excited to see her play.
This international window sees Australia play one match rather than the usual two – a move that Yallop feels is a big plus as there is less need to focus on recovery and managing minutes. Instead, the team have more time to hone their style of play and prepare for the opposition.
“I think as a squad we can get a lot more out of training only having one game. We can have a lot more intense sessions and really focus on our game and how we want to play.
“It’s just about learning and understanding the style we want to playing; the different manipulations within that as well and different structures that we can move between and flow between and get used to playing that different style with different players in different positions and rotating, so I think it’s really a whole team inclusiveness and gelling.”
Matildas training photo gallery supplied to Impetus by Football Australia
Above: Natasha Snelling in action for Norwich City in their 2-2 draw at AFC Wimbledon. Credit: Norwich City Women FC
FA Women’s National League Division One South East
Norwich City failed to win their must-win game at AFC Wimbledon. They were 2-0 behind thanks to Ashlee Hinks and an Own goal but late goals of their own from Holly Kennard and Shannon Shaw saw the points shared in a 2-2 draw. However, that was not enough for Norwich City who are now major outsiders for the title after drawing their last three league games.
Eastern Region Premier Division
Wroxham were beaten 4-1 at Real Bedford. Hannah Fuller got the goal for Wroxham but goals from Zara Carroll, Natasha Fensome, Francesca Partridge and Georgie Giddings saw Real Bedford take a comfortable victory.
Eastern Region Division One North
Thetford Town produced the result of the weekend In Norfolk with an emphatic 3-0 victory away to local rivals Mulbarton Wanderers, Melissa Boulton, Laura Martins and Amber May scored the goals for Luke Pickford’s side.
Fakenham Town were beaten 2-0 at home by Newmarket Town as Katie Hayes scored a brace for the visitors.
Above: Frances Peeling gets a head to the ball for Thetford Town in their 3-0 win at Mulbarton Wanderers. Credit: Ben Cunningham
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One
Caister continued their cruise towards the title with a 4-1 win at Mulbarton Wanderers Development, Rebecca Waters and Lauren Goulder both scored twice each. Mary-Anne Hoy scored for Mulbarton.
Sprowston were 4-1 winners at Aylsham thanks to a brace from Mollie O’Callaghan and a goal each from Aimee Dickson and Breana Rudd. Christina Papadopoulou scored for Aylsham.
Bungay Town were 4-0 winners at North Walsham Town thanks to a brace from Brooke Osborne and goals from Selina Rowland and Maddie Flatman.
Long Stratton beat Costessey Sports 1-0 at Manor Road thanks to a goal from Elsie Downer.
Photo: Action from the match between Long Stratton (Red) and Costessey Sports. Credit: Shaun Button
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two
Shrublands made it 8 wins from their last 9 games with a 3-2 win over League leaders Stalham Town thanks to goals from Amy Barker, Hannah Halfnight and Ruby Timms. Emma Gillespie scored a brace for Stalham Town.
FC Viking Valkyries were 8-1 winners at Martham thanks to 6 goals from Jessica Bennett and goals from Charlotte Kenny and Evie Tolson. Bethany Shearing scored for Martham.
Beccles Town were 8-0 winners over Freethorpe thanks to braces from Phoebe Carter, Vicky Bloomfield and Saffron Jones-Yates, Stevie Potter and Libby Elder scored the other two goals.
Above: Action from the match between Shrublands (Red) and Stalham Town that saw Stalham win 3-2. Credit – Steve Wood
Waveney were 1-0 winners at Great Yarmouth Town thanks to a goal from Shauna Brunton-O’Neill.
Horsford Hurricanes vs Bure Valley was postponed and the points were awarded to Bure Valley as Horsford Hurricanes were unable to field a side.
The match between Mundford and Horsford Harriers was also postponed.
Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division One
Mulbarton Wanderers were 3-1 winners at home to Taverham thanks to a hat-trick from Alice Ladbrooke. Chantel Davison scored for Taverham.
Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division Two
FC Viking Valkyries were 8-0 winners at home to Bulldogs FC thanks to a hat-trick from Kayleigh Ellwood, a brace each from Bethany Howman and Kiara Thrower plus a goal from Emma Powers-Richardson.
Hockering were 3-2 winners over Aylsham thanks to a brace from Maisie Hendry and a goal from Summer Davies.
Above: More action from the match between Shrublands (Red) and Stalham Town. Credit – Steve Wood
Above: Matildas U23 head coach Mel Andreatta – her side will be returning to action Photo: Football Australia.
Australia’s U23 Women’s National Team will return to international action during the May/June international window when they take part in the Four Nations Tournament held in Växjö, Sweden.
The friendlies – hosted at Visma Arena and Värendsvallen – will see the U-23 Women’s National Team compete against U-23 sides from Sweden, Germany, and Poland from 29th May until 4th June, 2024.
Australia will open the tournament against hosts Sweden (29th May) before taking on Germany (1st June) and completing their schedule with Poland (4th June).
U23 Women’s National Team Head Coach, Mel Andreatta, highlighted the importance of the tournament in continuing the development of U23 players to prepare them for the senior national team.
“We are excited to receive this invitation to participate in the prestigious Four Nations Tournament next month in Sweden,” she said.
“An opportunity like this, to compete against three high-quality U23 national teams, is invaluable at this age group as a next step so that they are ready to represent their country at the senior level if and when the opportunity arises for them.”
Above: Amy Sayer – now a regular member of the senior Matildas squad – and a recent alumni of the U23 Matildas. Photo: Cat Bryant for Impetus.
“This series of fixtures will be beneficial because of the tournament-like conditions it will expose the players to. Everything from the international travel to the close scheduling of matches and high-intensity football will provide key learnings on what is required to be able to perform at the highest level.”
Established in 2022 following the Performance Gap Report, the Australia U23 Women’s National Team has since seen three players (Sarah Hunter, Charlie Rule, and Kaitlyn Torpey) make their senior national team debuts following strong performances at the age group.
Meanwhile, Amy Sayer and goalkeeper Jada Whyman have received regular call-ups to the Matildas. In the case of Sayer, the 22-year-old has also recorded regular international match minutes and notched up the career milestone of scoring her first international goal in February’s Round Three Asian Qualifier against Uzbekistan at Marvel Stadium, Melbourne.
“It is pleasing from a technical team viewpoint to see that the program is staying true to its task and supplying the platform for these players to demonstrate their quality and what they can bring to the senior team,” Andreatta explained.
“What this program gives the players is different to the club environment and we want to ensure it continues to meet both the needs of the players and our programs as a whole. Our hope is as a federation and a technical team is to see more players taking this opportunity and embrace it,” she concluded.
The Australia U23 Women’s National Team squad will be announced in the fortnight prior to the commencement of their camp in Sweden which starts on 23 May 2024.
Above: Australia training in Florida. Photo: Rachel Bach, Football Australia
The Matildas have just begun national team camp in Florida in preparation for a friendly against Mexico next week. After the first training session, two veterans of the team, Alanna Kennedy and Emily Van Egmond, spoke to the media.
Only a small group were able to train as the arrivals trickled in, Kennedy saying, “it’s nice to be in the sun. It was just good to get the legs going after the flight.” With long travel associated with serious injuries, the European-based majority of the team will have a reprieve compared to their usual tedious travel home.
This camp is a unique one for the Matildas, with just one game instead of two, leaving the team much more time to train together and gel ahead of the Olympics. Kennedy said, “it’s a good opportunity for us to get more sessions together. Obviously when we have the two games, it’s always a quick transition from our clubs into game mode for the Matildas, having to taper into the game and not getting too much tactics under our belt. So, to have that training load and opportunity for us to really work on things as a team is good.”
With the Olympics just around the corner, Australia are in full preparation mode, testing personnel and tactics that will carry them through the Olympics. “It’s a good opportunity for us to spend as much time as we need on the training paddock.” Van Egmond said, “it’s a bit different, we’ll be able to get a couple more training sessions in, which I think is valuable for us as we prepare for the Olympics.” She emphasised the importance of getting fresh ideas and each player focusing on being the best they can be.
Looking back at their Olympics qualifiers, Kennedy reflected, “it’s not easy qualifying through Asia. We always want to be at these major tournaments to test ourselves against the best. It’s a great achievement from the team to have qualified for our third Olympics in a row.” Van Egmond reiterated her teammate’s point, saying, “it’s an amazing achievement…we’re just so happy now that it’s out of the way. Now we can focus fully on our preparation heading into the tournament. You don’t get as much time as you would love together, so it’s just about making sure you make every minute count and put our heads down and work as hard as we can before Paris.”
With the recently-drawn Olympic groups in mind, Kennedy expressed both the difficulty of Australia’s group (Australia, Germany, USA, and either Morocco or Zambia) and the whole tournament. “I think when you look across the groups, they’re all hard. The margins are so small in women’s football at the moment with the top ten or fifteen teams in the world. It’s definitely going to be a test, every single game. We’ve definitely got a challenge ahead but I think we’re all excited for it. As Matildas, we love to rise to those big occasions.”
The Matildas have put all of their focus on that first game against Germany, Van Egmond saying, “I think it’s important to just focus on that first game. We treat it the same way we treated that Ireland game in the World Cup. We go into that game with great confidence and belief in the team, which I know the girls have. It can potentially set us up to have a great group stage.”
One problem the Matildas are facing is playing time and injuries. With many players being over or under-utilised at their clubs, they not only risk injury but form. Alongside Sam Kerr who will almost certainly miss the Olympics with her torn ACL, Katrina Gorry, Clare Hunt, and Courtney Nevin all had to withdraw from this camp due to injury, a concerning sight for the Matildas. While this gives opportunities to players such as Emily Gielnik, Winonah Heatley, and Sharn Frier, having two or three of Australia’s best players in doubt is obviously detrimental to the side.
Luckily for Australia, Kennedy was back in the starting lineup in club land for Manchester City, alongside fellow Matildas Mary Fowler. “I was out through injury for a while, and being at such a great team, there are many quality players around, so I’m happy to have gotten my spot back and hopefully that continues through to the end of the season.”
Van Egmond has already made her impact at the beginning of her second season with San Diego in the NWSL, scoring a stoppage-time winner to secure Wave’s first ever win over Seattle Reign. “I was pleased to get on the scoreboard, hopefully I can continue to get a few more goals and help the team in any way that I can.”
Looking to the Mexico game, an unfamiliar but exciting opponent, both players expressed the necessity of focusing on strengthening themselves. Kennedy said, “I’ve not faced Mexico before, so I’m looking forward to playing them. They’re obviously a strong team, but for us the focus is on ourselves and working on our style of play, progressing our game from previous camps and looking to get a win as well.”
Van Egmond continued Kennedy’s statement, saying the important thing was “just getting on the same page and utilising the time that we have, as we don’t have much time. If we can nullify some things we need to get better before the tournament, that’s the main objective. We want to put on a good performance against Mexico, as every single game is gonna count.”
22 Goals, last minute goals and unexpected results. What a weekend of fixtures it has been.
Chicago Red Stars lost points for the first time this season as they took on Orlando Pride as they took on Orlando Pride who are yet to win a game. The game finished 1-1 with Mallory Swanson scoring in the 64th minute for the Red Stars and also earned Jenna Bike her first assist of the season. The goal for Pride came from an unfortunate by the red stars Talyor Malham after she goes on defensive duty but ends up heading the ball into her own net. Pride were in possession with the ball most of the game but the dominant attack and strong defence work from the Red Stars meant they were unable to claim the three points. This means that Pride are yet to claim three points this season as they have fought all their games to a draw.
The champions are seeking their first win of the season as San Diego Wave take on Seattle Reign. The game finished 1-0 after a goal from Australian international Emily Van Egmond in the 98th minute. She was assisted by Alex Morgan who recorded her first assist of the season. Wave also had Melanie Barcenes earn her first minutes of the season, the 16 year old is a young talent in the making. Kirsten McNabb also earned her first start and minutes for Wave since returning from injury. Throughout the game Reign had multiple attacks on goal but the Wave defence held strong and Reign were unable to find the target.
The only team left unbeaten in the league is Kansas City Current as they look to extend their lead and defeat Angle City. The game finished 4-2 to the current. Vanessa DiBernardo, Alexa Christine Spaanstra, Temwa Chawinga and Beatriz Zaneratto Joao, were all on target and helped their team keep their unbeaten streak. Sydney Leroux and Madison Curry who scored her first goal for Angle City, they also had a goal ruled offside which would have meant that they scored 3 goals. Both teams remained dominant on and off the ball and had the same amount of shots on target but Current were just stronger on the finish.
Gotham FC are without Midge Purce after her season ending injury where she tore her ACL as they take on North Carolina Courage. Brianna Pinto scored the only goal of the match for the Courage just before halftime in the 44th minute . After a cross came in from Williams that Sanchez got her head to and directed it downwards and Pinto was there to poke it in. Both teams were dominant on and off the ball trying to push for a goal but both teams’ defences held strong. Gotham had 15 shots on goal but the Courage defence held strong and they did not manage to steal a clean sheet of courage.
Points are shared in Oregon as Portland Thorns taken on Racing Louisville. A late goal by Sam Coffey in the 99th minute for Portland means they share points at home. Uchenna Kanu scored a brace in the first 10 minutes which left the thorns trailing behind and fighting for a goal until some magic from Morgan Weaver in the penalty box after chaos as Louisville failed to clear the ball and she brought the thorns back into the game. Sam Coffey received a beautiful pass from Kelli Hubly before weaving her way through several Louisville defenders and goalkeeper before burying her shot in the back of the net. Both teams were pushing for the winning goal but both defences held strong.
A late goal from Havanna Solaun for Houston Dash in the 100th minute means that they steal all three points as they take on Bay FC. Diana Ordonez scored a brace for Houston in the second half. The first goal came from a cross delivered in by Maria Sanchez and Ordonez made no mistake and headed it home. The second goal came off a loose ball from the Bay goalkeeper Lysianne Proulx who saved the original penalty but Ordonez punched on the loose ball and sent the ball into the back of the net. Havana Solaun scored the third and final goal for Houston as the cross got played in from Sanchez and was originally cleared from the Bay defence but the ball fell and she made no mistake and sent the ball into the back of the net. Goals for Bay came from Deyna Castellanos and Rachel Kundanaji. Castellanos scored the first goal of the match as the original shot from Asisat Oshoala was blocked but Castellanos was quick to jump on the loose ball and her strike found its target in the top left corner. Rachel Kundanaji scored the second and final goal for Bay as she picked up the ball in space and made a run down the right side of the pitch and cut back into the centre of the 18 yard box and her strike curled into the net.
Utah Royals take on Washington Spirit as Utah looks to pick up their first points. The game finished 2-1 to spirit with goals being scored by Andi Sullivan and Ouleyamata Sarr. Andi Sullivan scored a penalty after Croix Bethune was taken down in the box. She sent Mandy Haught the Utah keeper the wrong way with her right sided shot. Sarr headed the ball home after a cross from Trinity Rodman. The goal for Utah came from Ally Senator who managed to weave her way through the defence and sent it past Spirit keeper Kingsbury to bring the Royals back into the game. The Royals kept pushing for another goal to steal them a point away from home but was unable to break through the spirit defence for the second time.
Photo: Washington Spirit Website
Now we are on to the international break with league games returning on the 13th April.
Impetus‘ Aimee Logan provides a post-match analysis, from Molineux on the Conti CupFinal(1/4/24).
Above: Arsenal lift the Conti Cup at Molineux on Sunday. Photo: Arsenal.
The FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup Final once again brought together to sides at the top of women’s football in England. Arsenal versus Chelsea is always a game for the history books.
The atmosphere, for the entirety of the game, was electric. In the end it was Stina Blackstenius strike that sealed The Gunners their second consecutive Conti Cup win and a record seventh time overall.
A recent WSL meeting, only two weeks prior, saw Chelsea dominate Arsenal in a 3-1 victory at Stamford Bridge. Arguably, the Blues were positioned as the favourites to win. With the quadruple on the line for Emma Hayes, Jonas Eidevall would have known the importance of Arsenal bringing home their own silverware. With the WSL title race looking to be out of reach for Arsenal and their early departures from the UEFA Women’s Champions League and FA Cup, could this be their only silverware of the season?
Unlike recent line-ups, Eidevall named his Australian trio on the bench at the start of the game, leaving room in the starting XI for Emily Fox, Frida Maanum and Cloe Lacasse to start for Arsenal. Fox and Lacasse have been incredible in their first season in North London and are already loved by Arsenal fans.
Above: Arsenal fans packed into Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Molineux stadium to support their team.Photo: Arsenal FC
The first half brought all the excitement any football fan would expect from a final: end-to-end action and chances for either team to make a mark on the score sheet. A gap opened on the edge of the box for Chelsea and a strike from Mayra Ramirez to the bottom corner of Zinsberger’s goal put Chelsea 1-0 up.
In contrast to the WSL, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was used in the fixture. After and on-field review, the referee determined that the ball hit Erin Cuthbert’s hand before the shot was taken from Ramirez, ruling the goal out and giving Arsenal, and their fans, another lifeline, and more opportunity to take home the cup.
The backline of both teams looked rocky in different periods. The occasional mistakes and miscommunication that could’ve cost the teams a goal, was prevented by goalkeepers Hannah Hampton and Manuela Zinsberger who were collectively immense for their respective teams throughout the game.
An unexpected sub from Arsenal at halftime saw Leah Williamson depart and World Cup champion Laia Codina enter the pitch. After her recent trophy successes with Spain, Codina isn’t a stranger to lifting a cup.
Above: Leah Williamson celebrating with Laia Codina after they lifted the Conti Cup. Photo: Arsenal FC.
The second half continued as the first with neither team finding an opportunity to get on the score sheet. Eidevall is known to use his substitutes well and these 45 minutes saw the Australian trio finally make their appearances.
Caitlin Foord has recently faced criticism from Arsenal fans as she hasn’t been as clinical in front of goal as they may have liked. Even though the Matildas star wasn’t on the score sheet, her attacking movements on and off the ball were impressive and she proved her critics wrong.
Steph Catley helped lead the back line with Lotte Wubben-Moy, Codina and Fox. Catley was given the challenge of marking Chelsea’s Lauren James, but this didn’t appear to phase the Matildas defender. She was an assertive figure in both boxes and kept the defensive line strong for her team.
Finally, Kyra Cooney-Cross. The young star made her late arrival to Arsenal on the deadline day in September and its fair to say that she’s proven to be a talented midfielder ever since. I think that she has grown with the Arsenal team massively this season. That could be as a result of the midfielders of Kim Little, Lia Walti, Frida Maanum and Victoria Pelova that she plays alongside.
Above: The Australian trio of Caitlin Foord (left), Steph Catey (centre), and Kyra Cooney-Cross (right) with the Conti Cup trophy. Photo: Arsenal FC.
A scare for Eidevall and his team just before the game progressed into extra time as Frida Maanum dropped to the floor, off the ball. Her teammates were quickly concerned of her condition and rushed to her side and emphasised the need for quick medical attention. Shortly after the paramedics reached her on the pitch, she was lifted onto a stretcher and carried down into the tunnel to receive further treatment.
The most recent update from the club was that Maanum was stable and talking to medical staff. Moments like that made the crowd realise that there is more to the world than winning titles and every fan in the stadium was wishing for Frida Maanum to be okay.
The full-time whistle blew and gave the players the opportunity to regroup with their managers and teammates ready for another 30 minutes. In the first 15 minutes, both Arsenal and Chelsea couldn’t get on the score sheet as the defence held firm for both teams.
Just as the stadium prepared themselves for a penalty shootout, a central run from Cooney-Cross placed Arsenal in a powerful move of attack. The Arsenal 32 strode past her defenders and passed the ball perfectly to a waiting Foord on the wing. Foord set up the waiting Stina Blackstenius to strike the ball past Hampton. With four minutes to go until penalties, Arsenal sealed the victory.
Above: Stina Blackstenius celebrates with Alessia Russo after she scores the last minute winner. Photo: Arsenal FC.
Celebrations were in full swing, but the moment was arguably bittersweet with the thought of Maanum in the changing room not being able to be part of the post victory scenes with her team that she is such a vital part of.
A main fault for Chelsea was Emma Hayes’ lack of use of substitutes. The West London side had a threatening bench that could have been well-utilised in this game, but Hayes only used three substitutes, one of which being Aggie Beever-Jones in the last minute which left too little time to make impact.
In my opinion, I think Arsenal deserved to take the title. The play from Pelova, Codina and Zinsberger kept them in the game right to the last minute. Football does come down to fine margins, and that was no different in this final. At moments it could have gone either way but Blackstenius’ strike was that vital difference.
Above: The Arsenal team mob Stina Blackstenius (centre) as she wins her team the cup. Photo: Arsenal FC.
Arsenal took away a piece of silverware for the season and prevented Hayes from walking away at the end of this season, with the quadruple. In terms of other trophies, for Chelsea, it’s still all to play for as it remains tight between themselves and Manchester City at the top of the WSL table. The Blues also are set to face Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final and Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final.
For Arsenal, this looks to be the only cup the team will finish the season with the top of the WSL table looking too far out of reach.
Impetus’ coverage of the NPLW WA is back for another season with an increased depth of coverage. Ben Gilby and Ava-Marianne Elliott provide a full report from one game each, along with all the details from the round’s other two matches. Cat Bryant supplies a superb photo gallery from our game of the week (1/4/24).
Above: Hyundai NTC’s Theodora Mouithy charges forward at UWA-Nedlands yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
Game of the week:
UWA-Nedlands 1-2 Hyundai NTC
by Ben Gilby
The NTC dominated the possession and territory at UWA Sports Park on Sunday afternoon to run out winners in UWA-Nedlands’ first-ever NPLW WA match, but the home side produced a well-disciplined performance that showed they will be no pushovers at this level.
UWA-Nedlands’ squad has been boosted since promotion with the arrival of players with US and European experience such as goalkeeper Morgan Springer and attacker Michaela Thawley – both of whom would have influential afternoons along with established club star Emily Dinsdale.
Above: Hyundai NTC (blue) and UWA-Nedlands battle for possession yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
Thawley is an excellent player with good touch and close control. She also has the vision to bring team-mates into play and see opportunities early which are all highly desirable assets for a player to have at this level. Dinsdale worked hard throughout. She was looking to provide an outlet as well as assisting at the back. Her efforts along the right flank where she was involved in a fascinating battle with Violet Longmore caught the eye throughout.
Whilst the NTC have lost the spine of last year’s team with the likes of Lilly Bailey, Georgia Cassidy, Grace Johnston, Tanika Lala, Ischia Brooking, and Ruby Cuthbert gaining A-League Women contracts and moving out of the team’s under-19 age bracket, there was still a host of real talent with NPLW WA experience in the teenage side who have been joined by Jessica Johnson who showcased her outrageous ability at such a tender age for Murdoch University Melville last season.
Above: Hyundai NTC goalkeeper Jessica Skinner takes a catch at UWA-Nedlands yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
The visitors dominated the opening exchanges with a focus on the right flank and the dangerous Klaudia Houlis was lively on the opposite side. With Hannah Collins looking for outlets in the centre of midfield and Jessica Johnson popping up all across the front third, the NTC were bubbling with creativity. They were that bit quicker to press when not in possession, that bit crisper in the pass – as you would expect from a side, the bulk of whom have played together at this level for longer than the home side.
Twenty minutes in, the NTC turned up the pressure. After calls for a free kick after a challenge on Theodora Mouithy on the left-hand edge of the box, the ball was played back to Longmore who hit a stunning curling shot that Morgan Springer brilliantly pushed away for a corner.
Above: UWA-Nedlands and Hyundai NTC battle it out yesterday. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
A second corner was forced with Jessica Johnson playing the ball in for Collins to get an effort in on goal that Springer saved at the cost of a third straight flag kick – this time on the right. Jessica Johnson played a 1-2 from the set piece with Nelli Johnson before playing in a high ball for Longmore to head home from towards the back post.
To their credit, UWA-Nedlands regrouped and focused on their block, trying to force the visitors to play from deeper. Yet Longmore was becoming ever more influential now in this period with her vision and runs along with Maja Archibald who was able to draw triangular passing moves under pressure to create outlets.
Ten minutes before the interval, the NTC doubled their advantage when Jessica Johnson found Mia Britton outside her on the right wing. Britton played a supremely weighted ball that both dissected the home defence and found the path of Houlis who comfortably found the net from just outside the six-yard box.
Above: UWA-Nedlands (green) and Hyundai NTC battle for possession yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
The home side kept battling were rewarded as the clock ticked towards the 45th minute as a long ball was lofted over the top for Michaela Thawley to run onto and then lob Jessica Skinner with some aplomb to gain the honour of scoring UWA-Nedlands’ first-ever NPLW WA goal.
There was still time for NTC to come close to re-establishing their two-goal lead before the interval as Houlis was played through and tried to lift the ball over Springer, but couldn’t get sufficient height on her effort.
Above: Hyundai NTC looking for a breakthrough at UWA Sports Park yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
The visitors came out firing as the second half started, with Jessica Johnson dinking a clever pass through to Archibald who fired wide of the left-hand post. They continued with the early momentum forcing Springer into two further excellent saves. First from a long-range effort, and then from a cross shot on the left.
UWA-Nedlands now employed a much higher press, but whilst it worked well as a tactic and ensured that the visitors wouldn’t add to their tally, it allowed the NTC to showcase their ability to patiently probe and play some technically excellent triangular passing movements.
Above: A physical battle for possession yesterday at UWA Sports Park. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
The visitors’ passing game made UWA-Nedlands chase the ball for much of the remainder of the game – but the hosts were exceptionally well disciplined, well structured, and did the hard yards.
There would be only two further real opportunities on goal in the second period, one for each side. First, for the hosts, Dinsdale ran down the right and cut in to get a shot away that was saved by Skinner. Then, five minutes from the end, Springer was called into action to deny Houlis when the attacker got a shot away which the home keeper had to push away.
Above: UWA-Nedlands (green) worked extremely hard yesterday against Hyundai NTC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
There were lots of positives for UWA-Nedlands to take away from their first-ever NPLW WA match, and they will cause problems for the sides likely to be around them in the ladder if they can maintain their discipline and use the likes of Thawley and Dinsdale offensively.
The NTC may well feel they didn’t get the goals that their domination of territory and possession deserved, but they faced a hard-working opponent who fought hard for the whole 90 minutes.
HYUNDAI NTC: Skinner, Longmore, O’Halloran, Collinson, N. Johnson, Mouithy, Collins, J. Johnson, Houlis, Archibald, Britton. Substitutes: Clayton, Phillips, Tana, E. Gaspar, Hope, C. Gaspar.
Scorers: Longmore 21′, Houlis 35′.
In-depth review:
Perth SC 2-0 Fremantle City
by Ava-Marianne Elliott
Above: Jessica Flannery, scorer of Perth SC’s second goal against Fremantle City on Saturday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Perth SC produced a dominant display at Dorrien Gardens that pushed Fremantle City to their limits.
From kick-off, the game started on a relatively even foot as both sides fought to gain and hold the control of possession, however from the get-go, it started to appear that the fixture was going to be challenging for Fremantle.
The Azzurri were able to find a breakthrough with just 14 minutes on the clock when a corner that initially looked like a missed chance after hitting the bar fell to an awaiting Matilda Boehm. Despite the crowd in front of goal, and close attention from the visitors’ defence, Boehm produced the space to strike the ball into the back of the net to give the home side the lead.
Following the goal, Perth SC took control and left Freo struggling to break any further than the well-structured backline. The stream of play down Perth’s right side of the pitch to bypass the visitors’ midfield was a particularly prevalent threat consistently throughout the half.
The host thought they had doubled their advantage during the 31st minute when Sophia Papalia’s shot that hit the far post rebounded to Ella Lincoln’s feet for a quality strike that should’ve sealed a 2-0 lead. Much to Perth SC’s dismay, the goal was disallowed, and Freo still had the chance to find an equaliser before the half-time whistle.
Lincoln was unlucky shortly afterwards with an ambitious shot that was forced out of play for a corner by Dayle Schroeder in the Freo goal. Perth SC went into the break a goal up. There was work to be done for Fremantle to find an equaliser to push themselves back in contention for the three points.
The second half kicked off with Perth SC predictably charging forwards on the stronger foot, and the relentless combination of Lincoln, Jess Flannery, and Tamsyn Hannan in the frontline wasted no time in returning to testing the Freo backline.
Above: Ella Lincoln, pictured during the Night Series this season, who went close on several occasions for Perth SC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
Following a string of well-executed attacking build-up play, Perth SC were awarded a free kick in the 50th minute, and Janice Kiama was shown a yellow card. Despite the opportunity, McAllister’s free kick frustratingly fell straight into the hands of an awaiting Schroeder.
It would take until the 55th minute for the first real opportunity of the second half with Lincoln involved again, firing a shot at goal from the edge of the box which excruciatingly hit the bar.
Fremantle’s best opportunity of the game followed in quick succession, as they built up on the counter-attack, surging from box to box. The Perth SC defence were stretched and tested, but the resulting shot from Olivia Trueman crept wide of the right-hand side of Stacey Cavill’s goal after taking a deflection.
Anna Powell made way for Mikayla Lyon in the 65th minute, before disaster struck for Fremantle just a minute later. An excellent run from Jess Flannery left her with space in front of goal to take a shot, only for Maya Spatafore to put in a challenge on the edge of the 18-yard box which resulted in a straight red card. The punishment was then doubled as the resulting free-kick saw Flannery double the home side’s lead.
With work to do, the port city side set out to try and pull one back. With a few promising spells of attack consistently in a row, a free-kick just on the edge of the penalty area seemed like a perfect opportunity, but Sofie Osborne sent the shot over the bar.
The Azzurri wore the Freo defence down until the very last seconds of extra time, where Schroeder was forced to make a save just moments before the referee blew the final whistle, officially sealing a win for Perth SC after an eventful, action-packed 90 minutes of play.
Above: Lucy Jerram cracks home the second of her four goals on Thursday evening for Balcatta Etna at Murdoch University Melville. Image: Streamer.
The 2024 season opened on Thursday night at Besteam Stadium as Balcatta Etna comfortably dispatched Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) Lucy Jerram claiming four goals and Jamie-Lee Gale bagging a brace and several assists.
It took the visitors six minutes to hit the front. A superbly weighted lofted ball out from the left flank found Jamie-Lee Gale in acres of space to the right of centre outside the box. The former Perth Glory player needed no second invitation to take a touch and roll the ball across MUM FC goalkeeper Manon Gebauer into the left-hand corner of the net.
However, the hosts levelled just before the half-hour mark when Taylor Reid took advantage of a loose clearance from Balcatta keeper Isabella Comito to drive the ball into the roof of the net from the edge of the six-yard box.
It was one-way traffic after the break as Jerram took the bit between her teeth. Her return to Western Australia after a spell playing in the Northern NSW NPL was hotly anticipated by fans, and she has wasted no time showing why. A series of strong performances in the pre-season Night Series with goals already flowing before her efforts in this round-one encounter.
Just three minutes into the second period, Judy Connolly took possession in the centre of the field, danced her way between two would-be tacklers, and accelerated away from another before laying a centimetre perfect low through ball into the path of Jerram, who was around 35 yards from goal, accelerated away and placed the ball under the diving Gebauer.
Above: Abbey Meakins slots home from the penalty spot to put Balcatta Etna 4-1 up. Image: Streamer.
With 53 minutes on the clock, Gale broke through on the left flank to pull over a cross that was missed by the MUM FC defence, allowing Jerram to fire home a vicious shot parallel to the penalty spot. Moments later, from the spot, Abbey Meakins made it 4-1, dispatching a low penalty into the right-hand corner of the net.
Just after the hour mark, another clinical Balcatta move led to another goal. This time, Gale was found with yet another perfect low pass into her feet, and the attacker eased past her marker and rolled the ball across the box. It would take a deflection off of Gebauer into the path of Jerram whose second effort looped up into the path of the onrushing Gale to nod home.
Jerram completed the scoring with two goals in three minutes. First, the visitors’ ability along the flanks were shown once more as Gale’s ball from the right came across to the attacker in the number three shirt, who cracked home another powerful shot from a central position on the edge of the box. Then, with 73 minutes played, Jerram was found by yet another perfectly weighted low pass to accelerate away and drive another classy finish into the net.
Whilst Balcatta will face sterner tests this season, this performance showed two aspects that the rest of the NPLW WA will need to take note of – the combination of pace and centimetre-perfect passing. These are skill sets that opponents will need to counteract when playing against Pete Rakic’s team. Give them the slightest opportunity to do either and you’ll be in trouble. Allow them any chance to do both at the same time, and it becomes an uphill task of Everest proportions.
Perth RedStar 4-0 Subiaco
Above: Caitlin Doeglas (19) hits her shot across Ashleigh Riddle in the Subiaco goal to put Perth RedStar 2-0 up yesterday. Image: Streamer.
Perth RedStar began their league campaign with victory over Subiaco at RedStar Arena with Caitlin Doeglas scoring one and providing two assists for the defending champions’ four goals.
Carlos Vega Mena’s side hit the front with just four minutes on the clock when Caitlin Doeglas won possession from the visitors’ Shelby Cochran and played the ball across for Sarah Carroll to turn home.
The lead was doubled with 23 minutes on the clock when Doeglas began a storming run from inside her own half. The former Perth Glory star had open field ahead of her to run into, before beating Liz Wallwork and calmly slotting the ball into the net from the left across Subi goalkeeper Ashleigh Riddle.
Seven minutes before the break, it was 3-0 as Quyen Doan rose to head home from Douglas’ corner on the right.
The scoring was completed just before the hour mark when the visitors lost possession when trying to play out from the back with the ball falling for Reina Kagami to advance and slot home.
Each week Ben Gilby will be on the Impetus TikTok platform with his take on the week’s NPLW WA action. Click on this link for this week’s video: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZGeaVKBWH/
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