Sophie Harding: taking centre stage in the Wanderers attack

By Kieran Yap 31/1/24

Above: Sophie Harding celebrates another goal for the Wanderers. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers

Wanderers striker talks to Impetus71 about her season so far, adjusting to a new position and Matildas ambitions.

Sophie Harding is a striker in form. The Western Sydney Wanderers are entrenched in the finals race, fans are daring to dream and their number nine is one of the main reasons they can feel confident against any opponent. Harding has scored eight goals so far this season, and emerged as one of the best strikers in the league. Although The Wanderers attack has multiple threats, she is the focal point and the spearhead of Robbie Hooker’s lineup.

While this looks like her breakout season, a look back shows a steady upward trajectory. From playing on the wing at the Newcastle Jets to moving alongside Sarina Bolden last season as part of a dual threat, to finally emerging as a solo centre forward. Harding has evolved her game, added strings to her bow and become one of the A-League Women’s most tactically versatile strikers.

“I always considered myself a winger,” Harding told Impetus71

“Just because of my speed and I like taking people on.

“I was always more of the assist person than a goal scorer, But at The Wanderers we were lacking someone to score goals and I kind of took on that role when we moved to a two up top and I really like it.

“I get to be in front of goal more rather than out wide and tracking back. I get to play an aggressive style of play where I can win the ball and attack the goal rather be back in my own half.

“You have to be able to run in behind, you have to be able to come and get the ball at your feet, that’s an aspect of my game that I’m working on.

“I’m pretty confident once I’m in behind defenders and confident taking on players but just working on holding the ball up for my teammates with my back to goal.”

That ability to play with her back to goal was on full display in the close win over The Central Coast Mariners. With the defence sitting deep and paying close attention to Harding, her role was to bring the midfielders into play and open up space for her fellow forwards. Central striker is a role that she is still learning while excelling in, but by the end of the 2022/23 campaign she feeling at home in the position.

“I don’t know if there was a moment, but it was definitely towards the back end of last season I started understanding the role. I really enjoy the formation. It allows me to get wide and be central.”

Against Brisbane Roar in Round 14, Harding’s ability to torment both fullbacks was clear. She created chances with crosses from the right and cruised past the Brisbane defence on the left. Only the woodwork denied her a spectacular assist after teeing up Maliah Morris.

The way that the Wanderers play this season has been successful, but it requires the likes of Harding and Holly Caspers (three goals in three games) to be clinical when chances arrive and to work hard until they do.

“We know that we aren’t always going to have the most possession,” says Harding

“There are some real quality teams in this league. We play to our strengths we have very fast physical players. We all work for each other, so we have sort of triggers that we see on the field. Once one of us goes we all go.

“Once we win the ball back, we’re in dangerous areas and that’s how we’re performing best.”

The Western Sydney attacking press was on full display in the 1-0 win against Melbourne City. Harding, Caspers and Maliah Morris set up in a defensive zone, almost daring the league’s top team to try and pass through them.

When the opening came, they pounced and Caspers scored the only goal of the game. Against other teams, it is Harding’s pace that can do the damage. She sealed the result away to Perth Glory with a fantastic solo goal.

Harding raced into space on the left, cut into the penalty box and then took one last touch around the oncoming defender to score the crucial goal. It was a moment that combined pace and composure to produce a moment of match winning skill.

That confidence is found throughout the team. Despite a turbulent start to the season off the pitch, The Wanderers have thrived on it, and the results have been well deserved.

“We played against the top three teams the last three weeks and none of them scored against us,” says Harding.

“That’s brought us a lot of confidence.

“We know what we’re capable of and we definitely have a sense of unity and hunger to win. I think that comes from all our staff, all our coaches and as a collective we’re all on the same page which is good, but we’re just taking each game as it comes and ticking them off.”

Harding has improved The Wanderers, but the move home from Newcastle has been mutually beneficial, and not just because her potential as a striker has been unlocked.

“I finished my second year at Newcastle and was thinking about a few different paths. I had a few different opportunities and sort of last minute this one came up.

At the time my family were going through a rough time, and I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to stay at home and get to be around my friends and family while playing football.

“With The Jets sometimes I couldn’t switch off from football, because I’d go home to my housemate who I played with. Now I’ve got such a healthy relationship with the game and training. I get the opportunity to spend my downtime with my friends and family.”

Harding’s eye catching performances have inevitably led to talk of a Matildas call up. She has the attributes to trouble most defenses and Australia is lacking in options for pure strikers. Although she is firmly focused on helping the Wanderers to a first finals appearance since 2020, international football is something she aspires to.

“It’s definitely something that would be incredible.

“It’s been a goal of mine since I was a kid. I think that a lot of the girls in this league would have that aspiration.

“It’s not something I want to think about too much, just talking each step as it comes.

“I think I have a lot to work on in other areas on the field. Of course, it’s a goal of mine but that the moment I’m focused on getting my team into finals, getting some silverware and keep scoring goals. Hopefully the rest will fall into place if I focus on those things.”

Follow Impetus ’71 on social media –

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A-League Women Weekly Awards

Members of the Impetus team of contributors covering the competition unveil their choices of player, coach, and event of the week. We’ll keep a tally of all the votes and just before Finals, reveal which player and coach have received the most votes across the season to be named the Impetus A-League Women Player and Coach of the Season 29/1/24

Player of the week

Ben Carey

Hannah Keane. Her two goals and one assist were absolutely instrumental in Western United’s big winn over league leaders, Melbourne City. The Keane of last season seems to well and truly be back!

Kieran Yap

Tameka Yallop. The high profile recruit to the roar has had an injury interrupted start to the season, but has steadily found her form.

Yallop was back to her very best against Western Sydney’s lauded defence. With one breathtaking assists and an opportunistic goal of her own. It was vintage Yallop.

Coach of the week

Ben Carey

Adrian Stenta. He ended his team’s four match losing streak in an emphatic fashion, with a huge win over second placed Perth Glory. 

Kieran Yap

Paul Temple. The Phoenix were already without Michaela Foster and Mackenzie Barry, but then had Rylee Foster sent off and had to withdraw Macey Fraser.

Wellington were two goals up but we’re up against the odds against one of the league’s best attacks. They reorganised, did not panic and ground out an impressive win.

Moment of the week

Ben Carey

Brianna Edward’s penalty save against Rojas after just having been subbed on was insane. Nothing can beat that this week.

Kieran Yap

Brianna Edwards. The save, the performance for the rest of the half and the post match interview. Magnificent.

Follow Impetus ’71 on social media –

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Norfolk Weekend Wrap

By Darrell Allen (29/01/2024)

Above: Natasha Snelling (pictured) scored a Hat-Trick for Norwich City in their 5-1 over Actonians at The Nest on Sunday. Credit: Norwich City Women FC

FA Women’s National League Division One South East 

Norwich City produced a fantastic performance to defeat Actonians 5-1 at The Nest. A game watched by an impressive 364 saw Natasha Snelling score a Hat-trick with Ellie Smith and Hope Strauss scoring the other goals for Norwich City. Ikraam Mohamed scored for Actonians. 

Eastern Region League Cup Quarter Finals 

Tier Five Wroxham defeated Tier Six Mulbarton Wanderers in a Norfolk Derby at Mulberry Park. The game was decided by a single goal from Yachtswomen Tigi Robson which saw Wroxham progress to the Semi Finals where they will host Stevenage on 3rd March at Trafford Park. 

Above: Wroxham celebrate the only goal of the game in their 1-0 win over Mulbarton Wanderers in the Eastern Region League Cup Semi-Final on Sunday. Credit: Darren Gilham

Eastern Region Plate Cup Second Round 

Tier Six Fakenham Town were 3-2 winners over Tier Five Kings Lynn Town at Clipbush Park. Chloe Gravett scored a brace with Holly Davies getting the other Fakenham Town goal. Katie Ward and Holly Williams scored for Kings Lynn Town.

It was a miserable day for Thetford Town as they lost the battle of two Tier Six clubs 3-0 at home to Biggleswade United Reds. Nicola Henman scored a brace with Thea Black getting the other goal on the day for Biggleswade United.

Above: Fakenham Town celebrate their late winner by Chloe Gravett as they defeated Kings Lynn Town in the Eastern Region Plate Cup on Sunday. Credit: Fakenham Town FC

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One

Leaders Caisters game at home to Aylsham was postponed just two hours before kick-off as Aylsham were unable to raise a side.

That meant Mulbarton Wanderers Development had the chance to go back top and they did it with a narrow 1-0 win at North Walsham Town thanks to a goal from Alice Smith. 

With Bungay Town not in action, Sprowston seized the opportunity to jump up to third with a 4-3 win at Long Stratton. Lois Wright scored a brace with Rosie Milligan and Mollie O’Callaghan scoring the other two goals for Sprowston. Lucy Eagle scored a brace for Long Stratton and Elisha Bower got their other goal. 

Costessey Sports and University of East Anglia shared the points in an entertaining 1-1 draw. Freya Tyack had given Costessey Sports the lead but Natasha Harvey equalised for UEA with a fantastic header.

In the days final Tier Seven game Kings Lynn Soccer Club beat Thorpe St Andrew 2-0 thanks to goals from Elizabet Puckova and Jordan Turner.

Above: Action from the match between Costessey Sports (Red) and University of East Anglia (Blue) where the points were shared in a 1-1 draw. Credit: Darrell Allen

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two 

The top four at the beginning of the day Bure Valley, Stalham Town, Mundford and Beccles Town Development all had their games postponed as Horsford Harriers, Freethorpe, Martham and Red Rose were all unable to field sides against the Championship contenders.

In the three remaining games that did take place in Tier Eight, Shrublands moved up to 4th above Beccles Town Development with a 7-0 win at home to Great Yarmouth Town, Rachel Adams and Hannah Halfnight scored braces each with Chloe Bailey, Amy Durdin and Ruby Timms scoring the other three goals.

FC Viking Valkyries sit 6th after a 6-0 win at South Walsham Lingwood with a Hat-Trick from Charlotte Kenny, a  brace from Leah Walthew with the other scored by Carla Blundell.

Waveney were 5-1 winners at home to Horsford Hurricanes thanks to a brace from Chloe Dobson. Molly Grint, Maria Palmer and Lillie Tibble scored the other goals for Waveney. The Horsford Hurricanes goal was scored by Ellie Bushell.

Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division One 

Left Field had Brogan O’Grady to thank for the only goal of the game as they beat Dussindale and Hellesdon 1-0.

Taverham were 4-0 winners at Loddon United thanks to a goal each from Kiera Braithwaite, Lauren Charles, Hannah Parker and Amelia Nelson. 

The matches between Mulbarton Wanderers and Rockland as well as the game between Horsford and Waveney were both postponed.

Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division Two 

FC Viking Valkyries were 14-0 winners over Bulldogs thanks to Kiara Thrower scoring four, Kayleigh Ellwood and Lisa Ferdani getting a hat-trick each and the other four were scored by Jane Diver, Cate Moore, Tilly Thrower and Sarah Morris.

Hockering were 1-0 winners at home to Aylsham thanks to a goal from Laura Rushby. 

The game between University of East Anglia and Yarmouth FC was postponed. 

Above: Kings Lynn Town (Pictured) were beaten 3-2 at Fakenham Town on Sunday but their upbeat and positive attitude to their season continues to win them respect across Norfolk and beyond. Credit: Stuart Cobb

Millwall Lionesses win again! 

Ashford Ladies 1-2 Millwall Lionesses

By Myles Thornton 29/1/24

Above: Above: Poppy Payne (orange) winning a battle with the Ashford attacker (green). Photo: Ashford United Ladies FC

Millwall Lionesses won their 6th league game of the season on Sunday afternoon as they defeated 8th place Ashford United. 

Co-managers Alex Russell and Adam Rowland made 5 changes to the side that defeated QPR in the Capital Cup, Wiktoria Gmiterek, Mellissa Jones, Clementine Young, Shannan Drewe, and Chloe Burr dropped out and were replaced by Chrissie Wiggins, Ella Bailey, Jordan Butler, Emma Whitter and new signing Madison Grandys.  

The Lionesses were dominant from the start, and only 4 minutes in, Emma Whitter fired the ball into the box and debutant Madison Grandys was inches away from opening the scoring, but her header hit off the crossbar.  

Sophie Chapman was the next Lionesses player to hit the crossbar, but the ball was then cleared off the line. Ashford United then went straight up the other end, and Ella Roper’s effort went astray.  

The Lionesses’ constant pressure finally paid off though, as after 35 minutes, academy graduate Ellen Napper found the ball at her feet and took on a shot from long range which went flying into the back of the net. 

Then, just before the break, vice-captain Grace Seely doubled Millwall’s lead. Emma Whitter once again with a sublime ball into the area and Seely’s head caught the ball and she powered it into the goal. 

Ciara Watling came on to make her second Millwall debut alongside academy graduate Melissa Jones, as they replaced Ella Bailey and Ellen Napper. 

Ashford got one back with 30 minutes left to play, Abbey Davies whipped the ball into the area from a freekick, and Jade Steadman got on the end of it to head home. 

Maizi Garwood, who has 4 goals in her last 4 games, found the back of the net on 67 minutes but the linesman’s flag went up and the goal was ruled out for offside. 

That header wouldn’t be enough though as Millwall Lionesses triumphed through the rest of the game. 

After the game, co-manager Adam Rowland spoke to Maritime Radio’s Jeff Burnige and he said that he was “very pleased” with his side in the first half. However he then went on to say that the second half was “completely different” and said “it was like looking at a different side.” 

Next up for The Lionesses is a trip down the road to Dartford in the quarter final’s of the LSE Regional Women’s League Cup on February 4th.

Ashford United now have 2 weeks off, before they come up against Ebbsfleet United away in the league on Sunday February 11th.

Teams:

Millwall: Wiggins, Huseyin, Payne, Bailey, Butler (C), Chapman, Grandys, Seely, Whitter, Garwood, Napper. Subs: Bennett, Joyce, Paci, Watling, Jones.

Scorers: Ellen Napper 35’ Grace Seely 45’

Ashford: Not announced

Attendance: TBC

Australia’s Gorry and Grant enter the WSL

By Rachel Gore 26/1/24

Above: Charli Grant at her new home. Photo: Tottenham Hotspur

The January transfer window has brought numerous players to the WSL. Two of these players whose moves have attracted attention are Australian national team stars, Katrina Gorry and Charlotte (Charli) Grant, who had both previously been playing together in Sweden.

Over the summer the Australian women’s national team, nicknamed the Matildas, showed the world what they are capable of. The squad reached the semi-final of the Fifa women’s world cup that was held on their home turf.

Gorry and Grant, alongside Kyra Cooney-Cross, are often seen together on Australian national team camps. Therefore, it is only fitting that the pair have moved over to the WSL at the same time. They join Cooney-Cross who has been playing for Arsenal this season, having signed for the gunners in September 2023.

Katrina Gorry

Only a couple of months prior to their history making tournament last summer, a documentary aired on Disney Plus which gave an insight into the Australian team.

The episode which focused on Katrina Gorry and her journey back into the national squad, following the birth of her daughter Harper, was perhaps the most memorable.

In 2021 Gorry, nicknamed Mini by fans and teammates, gave birth to Harper and only a year later she returned to play for the Matildas, winning Player of the Match in her first game back.

At the beginning of January, Gorry completed her deal with West Ham, becoming their third signing of the 23/24 January transfer window.

The midfielder has over 100 caps for Australia and has joined West Ham following her departure from Swedish Damallsvenskan side Vittsjo GIK in November of 2023.

Prior to playing in Sweden, Gorry has played for clubs in Australia, the United States, Japan, Canada, and Norway. Her signing with West Ham marks the beginning of her first WSL stint. 

Speaking on her signing, Gorry said, “The Women’s Super League is the league everyone is speaking about at the moment.”

Playing in the WSL gives Gorry the chance to test her skills against some of the best players in the world, and there is no doubt that she will rise to the challenge.

She is a talented midfielder who made the starting eleven for her first game with West Ham on 14 January.

Not only is this move going to benefit Gorry, but it is certainly going to benefit the club which is currently fighting to prevent relegation. 

Rehanne Skinner, West Ham women’s first team manager, will be hoping that the addition of Gorry will lead her squad to win matches and earn points.

Aswell as this, Skinner’s squad is likely to notice an increase in fans and attention.

Gorry, and her daughter Harper, have won over the hearts of Matildas’ fans and West Ham included Harper throughout Gorry’s signing announcement.

Harper was seen sporting a West Ham kit in photos and has even been given a profile on Fantasy Football’s WSL app.

Seemingly, Gorry has immediately become a big part of the West Ham family.

Read Impetus71’s interview with Katrina Gorry here.

Charli Grant

Grant signed her contract with Tottenham Hotspur on 3 January and came on as a late substitute in the club’s second match of 2024, helping to maintain the team’s lead and securetheir 4-3 victory over West Ham.

So far, we have only seen Grant play a couple of minutes for Spurs, but her previous performances have led to excitement amongst fans. 

Like Gorry, Grant featured in the Australian World Cup squad over the summer. 

Grant, however, is younger than Gorry and is consequently less experienced. She is only 22 years old and made her debut for the Matildas in September 2021, scoring her first international goal just seven months later against England.Now, she has 21 caps for Australia. 

Grant’s professional career began in Australia when she signed for her hometown club, Adelaide United, making her debut at the age of 17. 

Then three years later, in 2021, the defender moved to Sweden to join Rosengard where she featured in 23 games. Following this, she joined Vittsjo GIK on loan in 2022. This move became permanent in August 2023.

Grant has signed with Spurs until 2026, meaning that if she stays for the duration of her contract, she will play at least three full seasons with the club.

As a young defender, experience in the WSL will be beneficial for Grant as she will face the challenge of playingagainst some of the most talented forwards. She will also have the opportunity to play in front of huge crowds in large stadiums.

Spurs currently sits in sixth position in the WSL table and the team will be hoping that the introduction of Grant can help them to end the season in the top five. 

Read Impetus71’s interview with Charli Grant here.

The Aussie takeover in the WSL

Gorry and Grant are two of fourteen Matildas currently playing in the English league – Arsenal is home to three of these players with Manchester City and West Ham both having two Matildas in their squads.

There are numerous reasons why these Matildas would want to play in the WSL; its dedicated fans and quality ballersmake it a league that is bringing stars from across the globe to England.

Gorry and Grant, two of the WSL’s most recent additions, are embarking on the opportunity of a lifetime.

Follow Impetus ’71 on social media –

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Instagram: @Impetus_71 Threads: @Impetus_71

Wellington win despite Rylee’s red card

Wellington Phoenix 2-0 Canberra United

By Kieran Yap 28/1/24

Above: Wellington players mob Brianna Edwards after her penalty save. Photo Wellington Phoenix

A Marianna Speckmaier double and some heroics from Brianna Edwards gave Wellington Phoenix a 2-0 win against Canberra United and reversed a run of four straight losses.

The Nix were playing at home for the first time in over a month, but any hope that provided their fans was tempered by the absences of Michaela Foster and Mackenzie Barry. Canberra United arrived in Porirua looking to make amends after a last-minute defeat to Melbourne Victory in the previous round.

Zoe McMeeken was deployed at left back by Pheonix coach Paul Temple but spent the opening stages operating more as an out and out winger. Her direct running  brought the crowd the life early and created the home side’s first opportunity of the game. At the other end, Michelle Heyman was causing problems, and up against Tiana Jaber league’s greatest goal scorer was looking dangerous early.

In response to McMeekan’s attacks, Canberra United swapped their own fullbacks. Tegan Bertolissio and Sasha Grove switched flanks in an effort to unlock the latter’s attacking potential, and for much of the first half it was an even affair even if Wellington did provide the better highlights. Speckmaier’s nutmeg of Cannon Clough delighted the home crowd and her shot from the tight angle tested Chloe Lincoln who needed two grabs to snuff out the danger.

The opening goal arrived in the shadows of half time. Isabel Cox dissected the Canberra defence with a through ball to Speckmaier. The Venezuelan striker burst through and clipped her shot over Lincoln in a moment of poise and composure.

Speckmaier doubled the lead in the 52nd minute from a corner kick and The Pheonix appeared to be in cruise control, but a contentious red card to Rylee Foster barely 10 minutes later changed the momentum of the game. Most players an fans were confused at best when the Wellington goalkeeper was dismissed for an elbow into the stomach of Sofia Christopherson. That contact was made is undeniable, but whether it was forceful enough or intentional at all will be strongly debated.

When the confusion settled, Macey Fraser was withdrawn and Brianna Edwards entered the game. The substitute goalkeeper’s first task was to face a penalty from Maria Rojas. The save was celebrated like a goal as she dove to her right and pushed the ball away with two hands.

With The Phoenix players flooding back to preserve the score, Canberra had the opportunity to attack, although not the space. Long shots were blocked while Heyman and Rojas were both crowded out by the numbers of Wellington players behind the ball.

The comeback looked like a tall task for the visitors while the home side were spurred out by vocal support. Every clearance tackle and foul earned was greeted with rousing encouragement as the Nix edged toward a drought breaking win.

When the whistle went, it was a triumphant moment for Wellington. They had broken a four game losing streak and done It with a mix of panache and grit. In some ways this might be their most mature performance. They had to manage the game against one of the leagues most dangerous attacks, and do so with only 10 players on the pitch.

Next week, they are on the road again to face Newcastle in a winnable game, but they will hope that Mackenzie Barry returns to try and stop the likes of Sarina Bolden. Canberra United will host Melbourne City in what can only be described as a tough challenge.

Teams:

Wellington Phoenix 4-3-3: Foster (GK), Davidson, Jaber, Lake, McMeeken, Longo, Taylor, Fraser, Cox, Speckmaier, Breslin. Substitutes:  Edwards, Brazendale, Elliot, McMillan, Whinham.

Scorerer: Speckmaier 43’ 52’

Canberra United 4-2-3-1: Lincoln (GK), Grove, Clarke, Clough, Bertolissio, Jacksnon, Milivojevic, Murray, Whittall, Stanic-Floody, Heyman Substitutes: Rojas, Nathan, Chrisopherson, Piazza, Majstorovic.

Referee: Holly Godsell

Attendance: TBC

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Mariners win the F3 Derby in entertaining tussle

Newcastle Jets 0-2 Central Coast Mariners

By Ryan Miller-Woods 28/1/24

Above: The Central Coast Mariners hold aloft the F3 Derby trophy. Photo: Central Coast Mariners

In a highly entertaining F3 Derby that saw a combined 29 shots between the two sides, Central Coast Mariners have moved up to fifth on the A-League Women’s ladder after a well-deserved 2-0 win against Newcastle Jets.

Newcastle came close to scoring within the first minute thanks to a great run by Sarina Bolden. Her cross found Melina Ayres on the edge of the box, but the first-time shot just went wide.

Three minutes later, Rola Badawiya laid off an integral through ball for Wurigumula who seized the opportunity in front of goal. Her first-time shot put it past Isobel Nino and into the back of the net for the opening goal of the match.

Badawiya and Wurigumula have been really important signings for the Mariners in terms of their attack prowess this season and this goal personified that with the roles both players had in the end product.

Melindaj Barbieri almost equalised in the 11th minute for Newcastle from a free kick. Her delivery kept Sarah Langman honest who was forced to clear the ball away with a very good save that then went out for a corner. It would have been a great goal for Barbieri and the Jets had it been scored.

Seven minutes later, Central Coast came close to doubling their lead with Bianca Galic as her shot ricocheted off the post. Unlucky for both the Mariners and Galic that it didn’t go in.

Overall the first half an hour of the match was exactly what’s expected in an F3 Derby with end-to-end action, chances aplenty and excitement all round as neither team let up with how they both played.

In the first minute of stoppage time for the first half, Natasha Prior’s free kick for Newcastle went through the Central Coast defence and found Ayres in the box whose shot towards goal was denied via a great save by Langman.

Four minutes into the second half, Central Coast was once again unlucky not have doubled their lead. Peta Trimis made a great run into the box and slotted the ball across for Paige Hayward who’s first-time shot put the ball over the bar. Hayward probably would have wanted that opportunity back if it was possible.

In the 60th minute, Newcastle had another chance to equalise as Lauren Allan provided a cross for Ayres on the edge of the box. The first-time shot at goal went over the bar. In hindsight, Ayres probably could have taken more time to set up the shot at goal better for herself.

Twelve minutes later, Central Coast got their second goal of the match as Tiarna Karambasis provided an important through ball that found Hayward. She timed her moment and run as she controlled the ball and slotted it past Nino for her first goal of the season.

In the 83rd minute, Kyah Simon , made her long-awaited return to competitive football as she was substituted on for Trimis. It was her first competitive match since her ACL injury and first time she has been seen in the A-League since the 2020 Grand Final.

Ten minutes later, the Mariners had a great opportunity to have scored a third of the match as Annalise Rasmussen provided a great ball for Simon who then laid the ball off for Shadeene Evans, but the shot came off the crossbar.

Teams: Newcastle Jets (3-5-2): Nino, Cicco, Prior, Baumann, Gooch, Barberi, Davis, Copus-Brown, L. Allan, Bolden, Ayres. Substitutes: Rochaix, Wilson, Hoban, Hammond, Dundas..

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

Scorers: Wurigumula 4’, Hayward 72’.

Referee: Bec Mackie.

Attendance: TBC.

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Millwall Lionesses make a double swoop, ahead of league clash

Above: Ciara Watling signing for her second spell at Millwall. Photo: Millwall FC

By Myles Thornton

Over this weekend, Millwall Lionesses confirmed 2 new signings, one on Friday and one on Saturday morning. 

The first was Northern Ireland international and Millwall fan Ciara Watling. 

Watling brings bags of experience to this young Millwall side, starting her career at the age of 15 in the Charlton Athletic Academy, and made her first team debut for the Addicks in 2010. 

After 20 professional appearances for the South London side, she moved to Millwall in 2012, and was there until 2016 making nearly 50 appearances. 

Then, Watling signed for Crystal Palace in 2016 before departing there in 2020 to return to Charlton Athletic, before moving to the south coast and signing for Southampton in 2021 until 2023. 
Born in Sidcup, the 31-year-old is a Northern Ireland international and has made 11 appearances since she made her debut in 2015.

Speaking to Millwall FC media, Lionesses co-manager Alex Russell said “Ciara is a fantastic addition to the group, both as a player and as a character. She brings a fantastic pedigree and a level of professionalism that will be infectious to the girls. I’m delighted she has returned and I look forward to seeing her in action.”

Millwall Media also spoke to Ciara Watling and she said, “I’m absolutely delighted to be back at Millwall Lionesses and can’t wait to get going again. I’m looking forward to playing competitively once again and I’m hoping for a very successful second half of the campaign.”

Ciara will bring a magnificent amount of experience to the Lionesses side and could slot in nicely alongside vice-captain Grace Seely, or Chloe Burr, or even Maizi Garwood who has 4 goals in her last 3 games.

There are a lot of youngsters in the Lionesses’ squad. So her wealth of experience in not only the women’s championship with all three of her previous clubs – Charlton Athletic, Crystal Palace, and Southampton – but also at international level with Northern Ireland means that she could pass along everything she has learned throughout her career for all of the young players to add to their game.

The second signing was from abroad, American forward Madison Grandys. 

Madison Grandys signing for Millwall Photo: Millwall FC

Above: Madison Grandys signing for Millwall Photo: Millwall FC

Madison Grandys, born in Chicago, has been playing football since the age of 4 and was in and out of clubs until being enrolled at the University of Illinois – Springfield. 

The 22-year-old forward has set a record at her University in the US for most assists in a single season (8). She has played every single game in her 3 years at university. 

Grandys, who hasn’t really had many injury problems in her career so far, will be a bright spark to the Lionesses side and will bring competition for co-managers Alex Russell and Adam Rowland when they are deciding who to start in attack. 

Speaking to Madison about her thoughts regarding the move she said “I’m feeling good about the move, and excited to be a part of the team! Looking forward to playing at a high level with a great group of girls.” 

Like her fellow new signing Ciara Watling, Madison could be lined up to make her Millwall debut on Sunday afternoon as the Lionesses face Ashford away from home in the London and South East Regional Women’s League.

Brisbane Roar after win at Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers 1-3 Brisbane Roar

by Callum Logie (27/1/24)

Above: Brisbane Roar celebrate a goal against the Western Sydney Wanderers. Photo: Brisbane Roar.

Marconi Stadium hosted an encounter between two sides on different sides of the table as Brisbane Roar managed to take some momentum from the Western Sydney Wanderers.

The Wanderers came in off a crucial 2-1 away draw against the Central Coast Mariners while Brisbane came off a 0-0 away draw against Perth Glory.

Western Sydney Wanderers’ line-up was unchanged as the in-form Holly Caspers held an attacking midfield role behind Sophie Harding and Maliah Morris. The Wanderers went with three central defenders, Victoria Bruce and Madison McComasky joining captain Amy Harrison.

On the other side, Brisbane kept the same starting line-up from the Perth fixture with Ruby Cuthbert getting the second consecutive start at the back for the Roar. The dangerous trio of Kijah Stephenson, Tameka Yallop, and Mia Corbin formed a narrow attacking three for the visitors

An early corner for the Wanderers tested Jordan Silkowitz in goal as a looping cross from Alexia Apostolakis almost found itself in the net before the Roar cleared. The Wanderers implemented a high press which gave them strong territory in the first 10 minutes of the game.

At eight minutes, Olivia Price played a clever ball through to the right side of the box which released Maliah Morris. The forward was caught in two minds and ultimately played a mix of a cross and a shot that Silkowitz was able to deal with handily.

Against the run of play at 10 minutes, a sublime pass from the center circle by Tameka Yallop was weighted perfectly to a running Kijah Stephenson who rounded the charging Kaylie Collins and put away the chance into an empty net. 1-0 to Brisbane despite the game being dominated by the Wanderers.

Maliah Morris had a chance in the 22nd minute, set up by a short lop by Caspers, Morris moved the ball to her left foot before striking a low-driven effort. Silkowitz was well positioned and collected what was Wanderers’ best chance up to that point.

At 25 minutes, Sharn Freier sent in a very dangerous cross that beat all the players in the middle of the box but ultimately fell for a half-volley at the feet of Deborah-Ann de la Harpe. De La Harpe struck the shot well but straight at the keeper Collins who was able to collect possession.

Two minutes later, Freier tested Collins again with a very similar chance to the previous, just in the reverse as de la Harpe’s long cross found Freier who got a good look at goal. Collins covered her near post well.

The subsequent break should’ve been the equaliser as an athletic run from Harding rounded the keeper and left a two-on-one between herself and Morris with Holly McQueen. Morris took the shot off of Harding’s dribble which rattled the crossbar and kept the Roar in front, a visibly frustrated Harding in disbelief that the ball didn’t find the back of the net.

The pressure and territory from the Wanderers did eventually find them the equaliser at 38 minutes. A long ball released Morris who cut inside and played the ball across to Harding who cleverly squared the ball across to Holly Caspers who continued her scoring streak, finishing clinically past Silkowitz.

Just before halftime, a ball was played over the defence again which set Harding one-on-one with Silkowitz. Silkowitz sprinted toward the forward and was able to dive and pick up the ball before Harding could get a shot away. This lead to a Brisbane breakaway with Corbin putting a left-footed looped shot over the bar after running wide from Collins on the run.

The second half started with a bang, a clever ball across to Freier by Stephenson led to a shot at goal which was at Collins. Collins spilled the effort however and Yallop ran in to convert and give the Roar another lead in the second half. The Wanderers peppered two near-post efforts in response, substitute Melissa Caceres almost equalising.

In the 52nd minute, Brisbane were pushing forward and Mia Corbin won a corner. The subsequent delivery led to a scramble in the box and the deflection found its way to the opportunistic Corbin who was able to put away the chance and double the Roar’s advantage.

At 63 minutes, the Wanderers won a free kick on the edge of the box after a slightly clumsy challenge by de la Harpe. Amy Harrison stuck the free kick firmly but was unable to get the ball on target. Another opportunity missed for the Wanderers who were running out of time.

Apostolakis’ corners were on point throughout the match as the centre-back McComasky headed just over the bar from a well-placed corner in the 73rd minute. The Wanderers were continuing to hunt for a route back into the game but the defence of the roar stood firm in the second half.

Yallop took a couple of shots in the later stages of the second half but Collins proved equal to those efforts. The Roar focused on holding possession once they took the two-goal lead, but were still able to create a couple of chances.

The first half was extremely competitive, with the Wanderers creating many chances and showing why they’ve performed so well this season. However, the Roar were able to maintain a strong shape and create quality chances, especially early in the second half which allowed for such a solid result.

The recovery of the Roar’s season continues to this result whereas the Wanderers will need to bounce back if they’re able to fulfil their high hopes for this season.

Teams: WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (5-3-2): Collins, Matos, Bruce, Harrison, McComasky, Rue, Price, Apostalakis, Caspers, Morris, Harding Substitutes: Khamis, Ferris, Chessari, Younis, Caceres.

Scorers: Caspers 39′.

BRISBANE ROAR (3-4-2-1): Silkowitz, Cuthbert, McCormick, McQueen, Freier, Palmer, Norrie, De La Harpe, Yallop, Stephenson, Corbin. Substitutes: Richards, Levin, Kirkup, Davies, Hecher.

Scorers: Stephenson 11′, Yallop 58′, Corbin 52′.

Referee: Caitlin Williams.

Attendance: TBC.

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Adelaide rock Perth with vital win

Adelaide United 2-1 Perth Glory

by Jonathon Hagger (27/1/24)

Above: Adelaide United celebrate a goal in their excellent win today. Photo: Adelaide United.

Perth Glory’s recent disappointing run of form continued after doing down to defeat at Adelaide United, who started the day bottom of the table. It was a result that continued the Glory’s poor run in South Australia where they are without a win since December 2016.

The opening five minutes of the match had both the Adelaide and Perth teams settling into their respective styles of play. While the completed passes from both sides were crisp, the ability to retain possession eluded both teams, The fifth minute of play saw some fantastic strategic passing that bamboozled the Adelaide defence putting Perth’s Hana Lowry into a one-on-one challenge with Adelaide’s keeper Annalee Grove who safely secured the ball. 

The match soon settled into a repeating pattern of each side advancing the ball down the pitch but no real goal-scoring opportunities becoming apparent. Perth were the more dominant team in terms of field placement however Adelaide’s midfield were up to the challenge, repeatedly keeping Perth’s attackers at bay. 

Eventually the pressure exerted by Perth was too much for Adelaide resulting in a wide-open Lowry connecting with a well-played volley from Liz Anton in the 22nd minute. In the build-up play Perth’s high pressing forced an error from Adelaide which cost them the goal. 

After a settled period of play, the Adelaide team turned up the offensive heat, becoming more creative in their attacking style, playing precise long passes through Perth’s midfield lines. This strategy kept the visitors on the back foot until a magnificent cross from Chelsie Dawber to Isabel Hodgson who narrowly missed lodging the ball in the bottom left corner in the 33rd minute. 

Hannah Blake, formerly a Glory player, carved open her former teammates with a stellar run up the middle of the pitch in the 46th minute finding teammate Isabel Hodgson just onside inside the goal area however Perth’s goalkeeper, Morgan Aquino, was up to the challenge and made a clean save. The extended period of extra time resulted in an equalising goal to Adelaide as another former Perth star, Alana Jancevski, threaded a pass to Isabel Hodgson who sweetly tapped a loose ball into the bottom of the net. 

Adelaide could be well pleased with their patient and progressive approach to the match. Even though they went down a goal early on, they worked their back into the match. Perth on the other hand would be looking to improve both the quantity and quality when in possession.

In a stunning turn of events, a goal keeper error in the opening minutes of the second half resulted in Adelaide securing the lead. A rather innocuous shot on goal by Nanako Sasaki was fumbled by the usually exceptional Aquino and dribbled over the line. 

From this point on, the hosts sought to capitalise on their momentum unleashing repeated waves of attack led by Isobel Hodgson. Perth were certainly not going to give up and they too ratcheted up the energy levels. 

Where Perth introduced substitute players in the 60th minute, Adelaide decided to wait a little longer before making changes. The energy of the newly introduced Susan Phongsongkhan into the attack for Perth didn’t quite achieve the goal of scoring. Many of the Perth players appeared to struggle with the pace of the match, resulting in defensive gaps and lapses creating space for Adelaide. 

A wonderful counterattack play launched from within the Adelaide half by Dylan Holmes in the 73rd minute resulted in a very close goal opportunity that somehow wasn’t put into the Perth net.

The final few minutes of play were a torrid affair with both teams looking to score. Both sides pressed hard to score again as the ball travelled from end to end of the pitch with incredible speed. 

A 2-1 win over a very talented Perth side is a win they can be very proud of. Having dominated most of the match and all the key statistical elements, Adelaide deservedly secured the win. 

Adelaide at home are not a side to be taken lightly. They’ve now beaten both Wellington Phoenix and Perth Glory, both teams with much better records. Perth they need to figure out how to win regularly again.

Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED (4-3-3): Grove, E. Hodgson, Tonkin, Tolland, Waldus, Sasaki, Holmes, Javcevski, Blake, Dawber, I. Hodgson. Substitutes: Wilson, Morgan (83’), Mullan (83’), Holtz.(86’), Panagaris (88’). 

Scorers: I. Hodgson 45+4′, Sasaki 47′.

PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Aquino, Cowart, Rigby, Anton, Mihocic, Lowry, Dalton, Cassidy, Farrow, Jale, Sakalis. Substitutes James, Foletta, Lawrence (61’), Quezada, Phongsongkham (61’).

Scorer: Lowry 23′.

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