In her debut article for Impetus, Sophie Puodziusanalyses the career of Manchester City and England’s Jess Park, highlighting the versatility that marks her as arguably the most important young player in the country(17/5/24).
Above:Jess Park (left) celebrates after scoring in the Manchester derby earlier this season. Photo: Manchester City.
Jess Park is one of those young players who seems to have been around for ages. Still only 22, the East Yorkshire-born attacker has had the season of her life.
Park began her journey as part of a local boys’ team called the Elloughton Blackburn Swifts before joining the Hull College girls football team at around the age of 11. The Lioness showed her ability and maturity spending two years captaining York’s Regional Talent Clubs under 16s before joining Manchester City in 2017.
The attacker credits these experiences at the very start of her footballing journey with giving her a strong sense of leadership and mental strength allied to a detailed baptism into the demands of various positions and improving her vision on the pitch. From these humble beginnings have grown a player who is one of the Super League’s most adept young stars.
In her embryonic days with Manchester City, the youngster gained Champions League experience, starting a game against Lugano, assisting her team to secured a 4-0 victory. Park was deployed as a right winger and used her technical abilities to slip through a series of perfectly weighted balls into the path of striker Janine Beckie.
Still a teenager, Park made her mark on the biggest stage in the 2020 FA Cup Final. Coming on for City against Everton as a late substitute, the attacker used her dribbling abilities to withstand the Everton defenders challenge in order to slip an inch-perfect through ball to Georgia Stanway who slotted home. This was an early example of her awareness on the pitch in huge games and confidence in her ability to deliver vital passes with great precision and weight on the ball.
These attributes show the extensive impact that Park is able to have on the pitch even in a short period of time which has definitely contributed to her rapid advancements in recent years.
Above: Jess Park (left) at training with England. Photo: Rafaella Macintosh for Impetus.
Last season, Park underwent a successful loan spell at Everton in order to gain crucial minutes and develop her game to the next level. The Toffees preferred to use her in a more attacking role than Manchester City which allowed her to be higher up the pitch and partake in set-pieces. This allowed the youngster’s dribbling skills to be taken to the next level, gliding past opponents to deliver crosses into the penalty area.
The attacker developed a strong partnership with defender Katrine Veje leading the pair to create overlapping runs to produce two-on-one situations in dangerous areas which troubled opposition defenders. During her spell with the Merseyside club, Park scored five goals and made nine assists before her loan spell was cut short by a shoulder injury which also caused her to miss out on the 2023 World Cup.
Internationally, Park has been extremely influential for England at multiple youth levels as she scored an incredible 19 goals in 19 appearances for the England under 19s squad.
As part of the England under-23 squad, Park started in games against Norway and France which allowed her to build up her international experience in preparation for her eventual transition into the senior Lionesses squad.
Her inevitable first senior call-up came in September 2022 for two friendlies against the USA and Czech Republic. Her current form has certainly caught the eye of England manager Sarina Wiegman, leading to further selections in February this year for two international friendlies and in April 2024 as part of England’s Euro 2025 qualification campaign.
The youngster’s role for England is, again different to the one she excels in for Manchester City. Park is positioned much higher up the pitch in the number 10 role and often drags other players out of position in order to create spaces for her teammates to utilise. Her dribbling skills and turns on the ball come into their own to be showcased are showcased as part of England’s attacking style. Additionally, Park’s speed is also deployed as she completes overlapping runs to link up with the experienced Lucy Bronze and Lauren James.
The attacker’s versatility has been emphasised further in her most recent performances for the Lionesses, which has seen Park evolve into an attacking midfielder where she can use her technical skills and advanced vision to drive the ball further up the pitch.
Above: Jess Park at St. George’s Park, training with the Lionesses. Photo: Lionesses.
This shows why Park has become a regular fixture in the Lionesses team – she is an all-rounder who is able to impress in multiple positions across the attacking line.
Like her international role, the attacker’s role at club level is evolving as well, adding yet further strings to her bow. Now seen in the heart of Manchester City’s midfield, Park makes pivotal runs down the central to right-hand side channels of the pitch and take the ball under pressure. Her physicality and defensive qualities show that she is an extremely versatile midfielder.
Park is an integral part of City’s high press by charging at defenders, aiming to steal possession, and making vital interceptions. She has advanced quicker than many other players of her age due to her incredible vision on the pitch to spot gaps which she can exploit to the team’s advantage
The youngster links up well with right-winger Mary Fowler and centre-forward Bunny Shaw to create goal-scoring opportunities. Park and Fowler work together to produce overlapping runs down the right channel to overload the defensive structure. This creates space to provide pinpoint crosses for the prolific Shaw who has been a key factor in the club’s success this season.
This has been an extremely successful strategy as Park and Fowler boast 10 assists between them this season whilst Shaw has become Manchester City’s all-time record goal-scorer in a single season and crowned the Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year.
Park can also score goals in major games at important times. Notably in front of a record crowd of 40,096 at the Etihad Stadium in the Manchester Derby where she scored two goals and provided an assist to secure City’s 3-1 win.
It is this combination of versatility, confidence, and key understandings with team-mates around her across the attacking third that undoubtedly establish Jess Park as one of the Super League’s most talented youngsters.
Above:Sunderland’s Claudia Moan – the Barclays Championship Player of the Year and Golden Glove winner. Photo supplied to Impetus by: The Women’s Professional Game.
The Women’s Professional Game has announced the Barclays Championship awards winners after votes were cast from a combination of the public and a panel of experts.
Sunderland’s Claudia Moan was voted Player of the Season ahead of Crystal Palace’s Elise Hughes, Sheffield United’s Isobel Goodwin, and Southampton’s Katie Wilkinson.
Keeping 10 clean sheets in 22 league outings, shot-stopper Moan also scooped the Golden Glove award on the final day of the season.
Elsewhere, Crystal Palace’s Araya Dennis – who spent the campaign on dual registration with the Eagles from Tottenham Hotspur – earned the Goal of the Season award for this stunning strike in the South London derby against Charlton Athletic at The Valley:
This success marked a duo of awards for Championship winners Palace, with Elise Hughes securing the Golden Boot courtesy of her 16 goals in 21 games for Laura Kaminski’s WSL-bound side.
Speaking about her superb goalscoring run this season, Hughes said: “It’s what I’m in the team to do, the girls have played a massive part in my goals and I can’t thank them enough.”
Above: Crystal Palace’s Elise Hughes – winner of the Barclays Championship’s Golden Boot. Photo supplied to Impetus by: The Women’s Professional Game.
Hughes was pushed all the way for the title of Palace’s top scorer by Annabel Blanchard – a team mate that the Cymru attacker has huge respect for. “She’s a great team player and the competitiveness has always been there. I couldn’t let a midfielder score more goals than me!”
Finally, London City Lionesses keeper Grace Moloney took out the Save of the Season award for her stunning stop against Sheffield United.
A reminder to vote for your #BarclaysWC Save of the Season!
— Barclays Women’s Championship (@BarclaysWC) May 9, 2024
Barclays Championship Awards Summary 2023/24:
Player of the Season: Claudia Moan (Sunderland) Goal of the Season: Araya Dennis (Crystal Palace v Charlton Athletic) Save of the Season: Grace Moloney (London City Lionesses v Sheffield United) Golden Boot: Elise Hughes (Crystal Palace) Golden Glove: Claudia Moan (Sunderland)
Above: Norwich City won the Norfolk Women’s Cup on Monday Night with a 6-0 win over Wroxham at Carrow Road. Credit – Ben Cunningham
Norfolk Women’s Cup Final
Tier Four Norwich City produced an expected cruise to glory defeating Tier Five Wroxham 6-0 at Carrow Road on Monday Night. A crowd of 922, which was a significant drop on the 2023 attendance of 2,690 at the same venue saw Natasha Snelling score a brace and Katie Knights, Hope Strauss and Ellie Smith score and the final goal was an own goal. It was a special night for Norwich City captain Anna Larkins who lifted the trophy in her final game for the club.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Cup Final
In a battle of two Tier Seven clubs, University of East Anglia defeated Bungay Town 2-0 to win the Norfolk Women and Girls League Cup, The game held at Youngs Park the home of Aylsham saw Ellie Burnley strike twice early in the first half and that was enough to see the University of East Anglia take a comfortable victory.
University of East Anglia celebrate winning the Norfolk Women and Girls League Cup. Credit – Darren Gilham
Norfolk Women and Girls Plate Final
The plate final saw two Tier Eight clubs battle it out as FC Viking Valkyries and Bure Valley also at Youngs Park. It was 1-1 after 90 minutes but FC Viking Valkyries scored twice in extra time to win the Plate. Willow Nye scored for Bure Valley but it was not enough as Charlotte Kenny, Maddie Smith and Jessica Bennett scored for FC Viking Valkyries to secure victory on the day. It completed an impressive achievement for Ben Binder’s side as they knocked out Tier Seven clubs North Walsham Town and Mulbarton Wanderers Development on route to the final.
FC Viking Valkyries celebrate winning the Norfolk Women and Girls Plate Cup on Sunday. Credit – Darren Gilham
Norfolk Women and Girls 7’s Cup Final
Completing a busy day of finals Mulbarton Wanderers secured the 7’s cup with a 1-0 victory over Left Field thanks to a goal from Joanne Hooper.
Eastern Region Division One North
To League action, and Dussindale & Hellesdon have one hand on the tier six trophy after a 6-1 victory at Wootton Blue Cross. Four goals from Victoria Leyer and two from Georgina Belton saw Dussindale & Hellesdon take victory. Daisy Moore scored for Wootton Blue Cross. They now will now be champions unless they lose their final game at Mulbarton Wanderers by five goals or more.
Mulbarton Wanderers were Norfolk Women and Girls 7’s Cup winners with a 1-0 victory over Left Field on Sunday. Credit – Darren Gilham
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One
Sprowston went top of Tier Seven with a 10-0 victory at North Walsham Town, A Hat-trick from Bailey Duffield, a brace Mollie O’Callaghan, plus goals from Phoebe Green, Holly Whayman, Anais Winney, Lois Wright and an Own goal saw them take a comfortable lead. They will now fancy themselves to win the title with a home game against Bungay Town to come on Wednesday 22nd.
A goal from Alice Wharam saw Costessey Sports win their 1-0 at Aylsham and complete a double over Aylsham for the season.
Kings Lynn Soccer Club were 2-0 winners at Long Stratton thanks to goals from Jordan Turner and Nikola Maslak.
Action from the Plate Cup final between FC viking Valkyries (Red) and Bure Valley, FC Viking Valkyries running out 3-1 winners after Extra Time. Credit – Shay Porter.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two
On Wednesday Night, Bure Valley went top of Tier Eight with a 5-3 win over Great Yarmouth Town. Emma Macmillan scored a Hat-Trick with Maisie Redgrave and Eva Heald scoring the other goals. A Lucie Morley brace and an own goal were the scorers for Great Yarmouth Town.
There were two games played on Sunday as Mundford were 10-1 winners at Freethorpe. Niamh Underhill scored four, Bethany Seymour scored three, Ellen Kerbey scored two and the other was an own goal. Kate Roome scored for Mundford.
In the days other Tier Eigh match Waveney and Martham played out a 2-2 draw. Olivia Harvey and Demi Saunders scored for Waveney with Bethany Shearing scoring a brace for Martham.
Bure Valley were runners up in the Plate Competition but they will be hoping to end the season with the Tier Eight title after their 5-3 win over Great Yarmouth Town on Wednesday Night which put them top. Credit – Shay Porter
Mel Andreatta has named Australia’s Under 23 squad to compete in the four nations tournament in Sweden this year. Perth Goalkeeper Morgan Aquino has earned her first call up while 11 players from the U20 squad to qualify for the World Cup will also be joining the likes of Leah Davidson, Laura Hughes, Polly Doran and Anna Margraf.
Since it’s inception in 2022, the U23 program has been a vital part of the development pathway in Australian football. Charli Grant, Sarah Hunter and Amy Sayer are three who have been guided into senior international football by this step.
“This is a squad of players that have put their hand up for this fantastic opportunity to play high quality nations through their performances in the recent A-League Women and European football seasons,” explained Andreatta through Football Australia.
“That 10 of the 12 A-League clubs are represented speaks to the evenness of the competition this season and is recognition of the developmental work that is being undertaken week in and week out.”
“Excitingly, with this roster there are a significant number of players that are in-form and showing high potential to be a future CommBank Matilda. Now it is about taking this opportunity to challenge and test themselves against some of the best in Europe, which has been at the global forefront of women’s football development in recent years.”
The squad represents an exciting future in Australian football. It contains a blend of the Junior Matildas who lifted the AFF trophy in 2022, the Young Matildas of the U20 World Cup in Costa Rica that same year and the current U20 side that finished third at the Asian Cup and scored in every game.
Recent history tells us that if there is to be a late Olympic bolter it will come from this tournament. Kaitlyn Torpey’s ascent as a senior international came off the back of impressive U23’s form, and this tournament presents an immediate and long-term opportunity for Australia’s in-form youngsters.
Although every Australian based A-league club is represented, Andreatta has not restricted the team to these shores. Polly Doran returns to the green and gold after winning promotion with Crystal Palace into the FAWSL, and Anna Margraf will make the short trip over from Spain where she plays with Sporting De Huelva FC.
The tournament may impact the All-Stars squad to face Arsenal. Western United’s Alana Cerne has been selected in both teams, and the timing of this expedition surely meant that many other in-form stars like Aquino and Young Player of the Year Daniela Galic were unavailable for that friendly.
Impressively for a development team, every player selected is a regular senior player at club level. Club form seems to have informed the decision making as much as future protentional underlining the quality coming through in the domestic league and for the national team.
The combination of three of Australia’s most recent and promising youth teams means that this team will give us the clearest picture yet of what the next generation of Matildas might look like. If Peta Trimis can replicate her scoring run from the Asian Cup it will cap off a remarkable 12 months that saw her go from scholarship player at Central Coast Mariners to growing international prospect.
This squad is exciting, deep and tactically flexible. Players like Bryleeh Henry and Sasha Grove can be deployed almost anywhere on the pitch, and few teams will enjoy facing a midfield that could contain Laura Hughes, Shay Hollman, Leah Davidson or Isabel Gomez.
The defence is experienced at youth and senior level with Jessika Nash continuing her rise up the ranks, while Ella Tonkin and Naomi Chinnama are both earmarked as senior Matildas at some point.
A successful run in the Four Nations tournament will be huge, but Andreatta emphasised the long term view of the coaching staff. Performances and development matters most, and this experience will be as valuable to the players individually as it will be to the senior Matildas selectors in the near future.
“With Sharn Freier and Kaitlyn Torpey making their debuts in the last two FIFA international windows, recently we have seen the U-23 program demonstrating its purpose in developing players and giving them the skills physically mentally, technically and tactically to step into the senior team environment,” Andreatta said.
“To bring the group together as we prepare for three strong matches will be brilliant experience for the players and will expose them to what is required to push on in their careers.
“We hope through the hard work of the staff and the players themselves, we can give more players the opportunity to perform at a high level and to earn future senior national team recognition down the track.”
Players and staff of the U-23 Women’s National Team squad will commence their camp in Sweden on Thursday, 23 May 2024.
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FOUR NATIONS TOURNAMENT – AUSTRALIA U-23 WNT MATCH SCHEDULE
Sweden U-23 WNT v Australia U-23 WNT
Date: Wednesday, 29 May 2024 / Thurs, 30 May 2024 (AUS) Time: 7.00pm (local) / 3.00am (AEST)
Venue: Visma Arena, Växjö, Sweden
Australia U-23 WNT v Germany U-23 WNT
Date: Saturday, 1 June 2024 / Sun, 2 June 2024 (AUS) Time: 6.00pm (local) / 2.00am (AEST)
Above: Cortnee Vine and Mackenzie Hawkesby (right) celebrate their recent Championship. Image: Sydney FC.
By Genevieve Henry (15/5/24).
Sydney announced on Tuesday that Mackenzie Hawkesby had renewed her contract for one more season. The Grand Final player of the match turned the Sky Blues’ season around when she returned midseason from a disappointing stint overseas at Brighton and Hove Albion.
The 24-year old midfielder said, “I absolutely love playing for Sydney FC, I am Sky Blue and bleed Sky Blue.”
Although her move to England wasn’t right for her, it only inspired Hawkesby to come back to Australia stronger. Her skills make her one the best players in the A-League and it’s clear that Sydney is where she thrives. “I knew I would enjoy coming back here whatever happened this season and I had a fire burning inside of me; so I’m delighted to be returning next year as well.”
As one of the best Australian players, Hawkesby has been called up for the senior national team camp, but has not yet made an appearance for her country. However, she has starred at the under-23 level.
In her five years at the club so far, Hawkesby has helped the club to win three Premierships and three Championships, but she’s hungry for even more. “It’s a great club with a great group of girls, excellent training facilities and a fantastic culture so I can’t wait to defend our title.”
Hawkesby’s importance on the field goes far beyond her skills and understanding of the game. The leadership and comradery she brings to the field is evidenced by a change in spirits since her return. Having been with the Sky Blues since 2019, she has relationships with many of the senior players as well as being an invaluable mentor for Sydney’s many developing talents.
Head coach Ante Juric was full of praise for Hawkesby. “Mackenzie changed the course of our season this year and thankfully she is coming back next year,” he said.
While Juric’s side have a competitive and competent midfield, Hawkesby elevates the team to new levels.“She’s a born winner and a leader and she will be a hugely important part of our squad next season.”
As always, the Sky Blues are full of ambition for next season. They’ve made a real statement of intent with the resigning of not only Hawkesby, but captain Nat Tobin, Abbey Lemon, and Margaux Chauvet. Her resigning will give fans much confidence for another successful season. “Having her on board will give us an excellent chance of retaining our Championship.”
Above:The Junior Matildas celebrate Lily Punch’s goal that put then ahead against Thailand in the U17 Asian Cup in Bali. Photo supplied to Impetus by: AFC via Football Australia.
Australia ended their U17 Asian Cup campaign bottom of Group B after suffering a third successive loss – despite taking the lead in their final encounter in Bali against Thailand.
After going down to perennial Asian U17 heavyweights China and Japan in their first two group games, the Junior Matildas were confident about ending their tournament with a victory against the similarly winless Thai outfit.
Above: Sian Dewey in possession for Australia against Thailand. Photo supplied to Impetus by: AFC via Football Australia.
Indeed, they made a good start with Tahlia Younis, one of the real shining lights of this event for Rae Dower’s side found in the box by Keira Meyers, but she couldn’t quite connect.
Benyapa Singsai in the Thai goal also had to be alert to deny Tiana Fuller, but she was finally beaten just after the half-hour mark at the third attempt. Alvina Koshaba’s cross found Younis whose header came back off the bar and fell for Indiana Dos Santos to hit a shot that hit the post before Lily Punch finally turned the ball home.
Above: Alvina Koshaba (20) looking to beat her marker. It was Koshaba’s cross that led to Australia’s goal just after the half-hour mark. Photo supplied to Impetus by: AFC via Football Australia.
Australia were racking up the shots on goal, but only had a one-goal lead to show for it – always a dangerous statistic. Unfortunately, they suffered the hard way as Thailand levelled seven minutes later Kurisara Limpawanich gained possession and waltzed her way through from just inside the Australian half and ended up with a one-on-one with Caoimhe Bray and slotted home.
The game turned with 23 minutes to go as Rinyaphat Moondong fired home a superb free-kick from 20 yards. Faced with the prospect of ending their campaign in Indonesia without a win, the Junior Matildas pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Above: Junior Matildas’ captain Indiana Dos Santos looks to find away through against Thailand. Photo supplied to Impetus by: AFC via Football Australia.
They were unable to find a way through, and in stoppage time were hit by a sucker punch as Moondong laid off to Chutikan Kitikhun to hit Thailand’s third.
This loss ensured that Thailand would finish above Australia in third place in Group B. Japan’s 4-0 win over China in the battle of the unbeaten sides who had already qualified for the semi-finals ensured they would finish top. Japan now face Group A runners-up South Korea in the last four whilst China take on Group A winners North Korea with both games taking place on Thursday ahead of Sunday’s Final and third/fourth place play-offs.
Above: Mikayla Duong drives forward for Australia against Thailand. Photo supplied to Impetus by: AFC via Football Australia.
Bulleen Lions won their fifth consecutive game with a dominant display at the Veneto Club against Bentleigh Greens. The Round Eight clash saw the newly promoted side travel to the home of the premiers, and Cailtin Friend’s team was in the mood to entertain with a 7-0 win that pushes them to second on the table with a game in hand.
Bulleen set up to press and dominate early and the scores were level for 15 minutes until Isabel Dehakiz stormed forward from defence to unleash a thunderous goal from long range. It was a spectacular effort that set the tone for a near perfect afternoon for the central defender.
Bulleen added a second in the 37th minute. Alana Burn’s long ball forward found the in-form Maja Markovski. Her first attempt at goal was closed down by the defender, but although she was denied the volley, Markovski’s composure remained and she was able to calmly slot the ball home from close range.
It was 3-0 before half time. Star signing Alana Cortellino was well positioned to tap home from Betti Micheal’s cutback after a quick counterattacking move from Bulleen. Ominously for Bentleigh they had scored from three different methods of attack, while the pairing of Burn and Dehakiz were giving no space away at the back.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly squashed just two minutes after half time. Markovski’s strike from a short corner may have been deflected on its way into the back of the net, but the effort from one target. The goal was credited to Lourdes Gonzales in the end and was 4-0 with plenty of scoring to come.
With the result seemingly secure, Caitlin Friend rested Michael and brought Katrina Nikpour into the game. The former Heidelberg United attacker and Melbourne Victory train on player had an almost instant impact with a through ball for Lourdes Gonzales to round the goalkeeper and score.
Bulleen’s sixth was a spectacular effort. If not for Dehakiz’s opener it would have no competition for goal of the match. A Bentleigh Green’s corner drifted across the box and Alana Cortellino sensed an opportunity. With a explosive burst of pace she raced from to the wing and tore past two Bentleigh defenders. there was still about 30 metres left to run, but she raced along the touchline and into the penalty box before squaring for the easiest of finishes by Gonzales to complete her hatrick.
Cortellino showed why she is one of the most entertaining players in the competition, but the goal was impressive beyond what it looked like in isolation. This was a 67th minute run that took in the entire length of the pitch. Cortellino had pressed in attack for much of the first half when Bentleigh had possession, and had been paid close physical attention by the defence when she had the ball. It took only seconds for Bulleen to go from deep in defence to a tap in goal through the tremendous individual effort.
An opposition corner is just another chance to score if you’re as fast as Alana Cortellino
The seventh and final goal of the game felt unfortunate, and Bentleigh looked tired by this point. Markovski’s clever turn at the edge of the box invited a challenge and earned a penalty which she dispatched herself with a confident finish to bring up her brace.
Bulleen were ruthless and efficient with the ball, but their control of the game without it is what will have the rest of the league on alert. The can go from defence to attack almost instantly and without warning and through a variety of avenues. It is a defence-first team that sets themselves up to create a lot of chances and have game changing talent on the bench.
Next up is an very different proposition. They face top placed Preston Lions who have added to their strong start to the season by recently signing capped Matildas Emma Checker and Jamilla Rankin. It will be an intriguing contest.
Ben Gilby provides a full report from the weekend’s game of the round along with all the details from the other three matches(13/5/24)
Above:Perth RedStar’s Emily Dunn, captured last season. The club legend recorded her 300th appearance on Sunday against Balcatta Etna. Photo:Robbie Anderson.
Game of the week
Perth RedStar 4-2 Balcatta Etna
Perth RedStar gained another important victory over a potential title rival as they saw off Balcatta Etna at RedStar Arena on Sunday.
This was an encounter that had something for everyone – some sensational goals and tactical brilliance as some of the competition’s best players went head-to-head – but there was a familiar outcome with the home side always managing to win the games that matter.
The afternoon started with a celebration of Emily Dunn, who was recording her 300th appearance for Northern Redbacks/Perth RedStar. A staggering achievement for a superb player who has helped the club to no less than 16 pieces of silverware in the process.
With Balcatta having gone down to defeat to another top-four rival, Perth SC in recent weeks, this clash took on additional importance in the battle at the ladder’s summit. Carlos Vega Mena’s side went into this encounter as the only team to win all their NPLW WA fixtures this season and, indeed, RedStar hit the front with only six minutes played.
Caitlin Doeglas played in a corner from the right into the near post. Balcatta keeper Rebecca Bennett, under pressure from four players right in front of her, wasn’t able to get a clear punch on the ball, allowing it to fall for Olivia Wood parallel to the penalty spot. She sidefooted a short pass to Reina Kagami, a yard or so behind her to shoot into the left-hand side of the net.
GOAL! 06:18
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Perth Redstar W vs Balcatta Etna FC W match at Redstar Arena.
Balcatta looked to respond initially, with Liana Cook’s curling free-kick from 30 yards palmed over the top by Gabby Dal Busco.
Yet the opening 25 minutes belonged to the hosts. Reina Kagami and Momoko Sakairi were linking up brilliantly with turns and short passing. From one such combination play, the duo found Sarah Carroll who played a high ball forward for Doeglas to lift in turn to Bronwyn Studman. Studman played a perfectly weighted low pass to dissect the visitors’ defence to find Renee Leota who fired a shot against the cross bar with Bennett beaten.
RedStar were employing their rapid press to disrupt Balcatta’s passing game. The champions also showed a real knowledge of the likely channels that the visitors would be looking to play through as those areas were taken away from Balcatta and several red shirts clustered around any Etna one whenever Pete Rakic’s side were on the ball.
Yet, Balcatta did find a way back into the game. Lucy Jerram was fouled on the left flank, parallel to the penalty spot. Jamie-Lee Gale’s free-kick came in high, and as it did so, Abbey Meakins was shoved in the back by Studman giving the referee no option but to point to the spot. Up stepped Meakins to dispatch her third spot kick of the season into the right-hand corner of the net.
GOAL! 23:55
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Balcatta Etna FC W in the Perth Redstar W vs Balcatta Etna FC W match at Redstar Arena.
Balcatta now had more possession and finding space, particularly aided by the forceful runs of Gale along the right who was lively, full of skill, and looking to provide balls into the box, however, shots on goal were at a premium for the visitors and key attacker Jerram was largely kept under wraps by the home side’s Andreia Teixeira and Carroll who were superb.
As the game neared the half-time whistle, RedStar stepped it up once more. Wood drove down the right and powered in a cross-shot into Bennett’s arms.
Then came a real moment of magic from Momo Sakairi who is looking the signing of the season. Her early appearances have been sprinkled with beautiful footwork, insightful passing, and clever runs. Two minutes before the break she showed she also has an eye for goal. And how.
Liana Cook’s attempted pass to Monique Godding when playing out from the back was snaffled up by Sakairi who played a one-two with Leota outside the box before the Japanese star sent a sensational arrow of a shot from the right of the area across Bennett and into the left-hand side of the net. It was a worthy goal to send her side in ahead at the break.
GOAL! 43:14
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Perth Redstar W vs Balcatta Etna FC W match at Redstar Arena.
Any hope that Balcatta had of starting the second half on the front foot to hit back fell by the wayside within four minutes of the re-start as Doeglas gathered possession along the left, beat Alyssa van Heurck, and supplied a ball into the box that was too high for Wood, but fell perfectly for the unmarked Leota near the penalty spot to curl home and extend her side’s lead to 3-1.
It could have got a whole lot worse for the visitors shortly afterwards as Leota, who was having yet another influential afternoon, fed Wood who poked a pass through to Kagami to send a low shot that came back off the far post with Doeglas racing in attempting to follow up unable to connect.
It was relentless from RedStar. They were working so hard to impose a rapid press to close down anything Balcatta might have had to offer. The visitors had no time on the ball or space to work in.
Into the final 20 minutes, the visitors managed to slow things down, gain more time to play the ball, and the chances begin to come as a result.
Godding combined with Meakins to feed Gale who rounded Teixeira, but saw her shot blocked by the outrushing Dal Busco. Within three minutes though, the visitors grabbed a lifeline.
Jerram got free along the left and crossed in, Dal Busco couldn’t make the ball stick to her gloves at the near post, and Godding was in space to fire home.
Balcatta were in the ascendency now and Dal Busco had to be alert to deny her former team twice in a matter of minutes. First, as Meakins sped into the box, and then as Gale’s superb angled low pass divided the RedStar defence for substitute Monique Prinsloo – yet again Dal Busco came out to deny the attacker.
The visitors were made to pay in the harshest way possible for failing to take these opportunities – a punishment that RedStar have a habit of meting out. Directly from Dal Busco’s save from Prinsloo, her long goal-kick allowed Doeglas to advance. The former Perth Glory attacker’s shot was blocked by Bennett, but Doeglas regained possession and laid the ball back for substitute Jayna Ridley, who hit a sumptuous first-time shot from the edge of the box to seal victory for the champions.
GOAL! 86:26
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Perth Redstar W vs Balcatta Etna FC W match at Redstar Arena.
Once more Carlos Vega Mena’s side showed their ruthless ability to play their best football when it absolutely matters in matches – particularly against those likely to be around them in the table. Tactically, they got it right. Balcatta have now only defeated RedStar/Northern Redbacks once in 12 NPLW WA encounters. Pete Rakic will be doing everything possible to ensure that a second win happens at Grindleford Reserve later in the season as his side strive to dethrone the red machine.
UWA-Nedlands recorded their first ever NPLW WA victory and moved up two places on the ladder as a consequence of their superb achievement at Hilton Park on Sunday afternoon.
Lawrence Lewis’ side had suffered defeat last time out to fellow winless side Murdoch University Melville, but they showed their determination to avoid similar fate this time round against another team around them in the ladder.
It’s been a tough start to the campaign for Freo. The perennial top four side had just one win in the league going into the competition, but were able to point to the arrival of Perth Glory A-League Women player Abbey Green, who was sensational for the port city side last season, along with her Glory teammate Tanika Lala.
However, that counted for nothing as the visitors hit the front with 29 minutes played as Michaela Thawley’s corner eventually came out to Alexandra Lyons on the edge of the box to turn a low shot goalwards that squirmed into the net at Indiana Antunes’ near post.
It would get better for UWA-Nedlands on the hour mark. There looked to be no danger at all when Tiana Boots’ clearance for Freo fell to Lyons around 30 yards from goal. However, the visitors’ player looked up and saw Antunes was off her line, sending a high shot goalwards – but the home shot-stopper looked to have it covered, only for the ball to creep past her and into the net.
GOAL! 59:53
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for UWA Nedlands FC W in the Fremantle City W vs UWA Nedlands FC W match at Hilton Park.
Just before the 70-minute mark, the home side got back into the game when former NTC star Lala found Anna Powell who turned a sublime first touch into the net.
UWA-Nedlands kept battling away, and within five minutes restored their two goal advantage. Amy Hartley won possession from a goal kick and drove along the right, beating both Erin Siah and Boots before sending in a cross for Erin Armstrong to bundle home from close range at the back post.
GOAL! 76:19
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for UWA Nedlands FC W in the Fremantle City W vs UWA Nedlands FC W match at Hilton Park.
Fremantle got a late consolation from the penalty spot as Annabelle Leek’s powerful shot went into the left-hand corner.
Whilst this win lifts UWA-Nedlands to sixth, Freo are now just one off the bottom and travel to cellar-dwellers Murdoch University Melville next weekend in a must-win game to get their season on track.
Murdoch University Melville 1-4 Perth SC
Perth SC continued their pursuit of Perth RedStar at the top of the NPLW WA with success at Besteam Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The home side went into the game on the back of two successive wins – over Perth AFC in the State Cup, and last weekend’s vital victory over UWA-Nedlands in the clash of the league’s bottom two. The Azzurri were buoyed by a ruthless demolition job of the NTC in their previous outing.
Indeed, it was the visitors who hit the front with 26 minutes played. Epril Nossent drove up the right wing to deliver a high cross that was met by the head Anika Stajcic.
GOAL! 25:26
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth SC W in the MUM FC W vs Perth SC W match at Besteam Stadium at Murdoch University.
It was 2-0 just under 10 minutes later when Impetus’ NPLW WA player of the month for April, Ella Lincoln hit the net from close range.
Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) kept working, and to their credit halved the deficit five minutes into the second half. After good work from Jessie Ellis, Brooke Burden’s ball through found Taylor Reid who drove between two defenders gained possession back when an attempted clearance ricocheted off of her and turned to send the ball into the net.
GOAL! 49:56
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for MUM FC W in the MUM FC W vs Perth SC W match at Besteam Stadium at Murdoch University.
However, any hopes of a comeback were snuffed out by Perth SC within four minutes. Lincoln’s classy pass through to Jess Flannery from the middle of the park was perfectly weighted. The pair are building a superb connection this season, and Flannery timed her run brilliantly to profit, holding off Ellis and sending a shot into the left hand corner of the net.
The Azzurri sealed their win on the hour mark with another fantastic goal. Georgia Cassidy released a pinpoint pass to Flannery outside her on the left flank who in turn played a fantastically judged pass between two defenders for Lincoln to run onto in the central channel. The initial shot was blocked by the head of MUM FC keeper Manon Gebauer but fell perfectly for Daisy McAllister to hit a first-time side-footed finish into the left-hand corner of the net.
GOAL! 59:21
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth SC W in the MUM FC W vs Perth SC W match at Besteam Stadium at Murdoch University.
Subiaco moved within two points of the top four after gaining an excellent win over the NTC at Rosalie Park in the weekend’s final game.
The NTC’s third straight loss, a run which coupled with Greg Farrell’s side’s continual improvement, sees Subi now firmly in the Top Four Cup race this season.
The home side gained the upper hand with two goals in the space of just 62 seconds before the half-hour mark. Their opener came when Stella Zampogna, a key signing over the close season, was found by Tayna Campos to dispatch a low shot into the net.
Subiaco’s second goal was an absolute peach. A misplaced crossfield ball from the NTC when trying to play out from the back went straight to Frankie Murray-Hocking, who was positioned to the right of centre and chested the ball down before feeding Marianna Tabain inside her. The former A-League Women star laid off to Campos who looked up and played a superbly judged first-time lob over NTC keeper Megan Phillips and into the net.
GOAL! 28:37
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Subiaco AFC W in the Subiaco AFC W vs Hyundai NTC W match at Rosalie Park.
Subi’s lead held until 10 minutes before time when, after an impressive passing move, the ever-dangerous Mia Britton gathered possession on the right, held off Subi’s Savannah Olsthoorn to supplied a typically on point cross for Theodora Mouthiys to come in at the back post and turn home.
However, less than a minute later, the home side restored their two-goal margin, with another excellent piece of skill. Shelby Cochran’s throw-on on the right flank near the edge of the box found Murray-Hocking whose stunning first touch pulled the ball in front of her and then slammed a fantastic shot into the far corner of the net.
GOAL! 80:43
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Subiaco AFC W in the Subiaco AFC W vs Hyundai NTC W match at Rosalie Park.
Subiaco’s continual improvement over the past three seasons is gathering pace – with the way the ladder is opening up after the opening six weeks of the campaign, they have every chance of celebrating a first spot in the Top Four Cup come the end of August.
Table From: Squadi
Round Seven Fixtures – Saturday: Perth RedStar v Hyundai NTC (Geraldton), Perth SC v Subiaco. Sunday: UWA-Nedlands v Balcatta Etna, Murdoch University Melville v Fremantle City.
Image Above: Manchester United celebrating their trophy. (Image from Manchester United Women on X)
by Hannah Chadwick (12/5/2024)
Manchester United produced a dominant display to defeat Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley Stadium this afternoon to seal their first major trophy.
The first shot of the game went Spurs’ way as Swedish winger Matilda Vinberg danced around the red shirts, but sent her shot over the bar.
United hit back through Jayde Riviere and Ella Toone who attempted to slide a pass into Leah Galton whose run was ended after colliding with onrushing Tottenham keeper Becky Spencer.
As the half rumbled on, it was Marc Skinner’s side who took charge with the combination of Rachel Williams and Lucia García linking up with Toone down the left-hand side – something which would prove to be fruitful throughout.
Spurs responded with Vinberg cruising along the left and supplied Martha Thomas who headed wide. They came close shortly after once more when Ashleigh Neville crossed in but Vinberg could only head wide.
The frantic exchange of play continued as Katie Zelem fired in a corner which Garcia headed over. Toone was next on the front foot for United, volleying over the top.
The Red Devils were gradually finding the ascendancy, and another dangerous corner from Zelem found Toone once more, but Eveliina Summanen denied the Lioness.
United were rewarded for the greater effectiveness of their offensive play in the final minute of added time in the first half. A lack of communication in the Spurs defensive line allowed Toone to get through on goal, making no mistake with a sensational rocket shot that curled into the roof of the net past the despairing dive Spencer.
There was no immediate need for the North London side to panic – every time they have gone behind in an FA Cup game this season, they have gone on to win the match.
However, within 10 minutes of the re-start, Spurs’ job got doubly tough as Williams doubled United’s lead
Beth England tried to get her side back into the game, but saw her eventual shot go over the top. In the end, this would prove to be the ultimate deciding point in the game, as within minutes the Red Devils went 3-0 up. It was a moment that Spencer will never forget for all the wrong reasons as, in attempting to play out from the back, her clearance lacked power and went straight to Lucia García who capitalised on the error with a deserved goal.
Another opportunity came and went for Spurs after Nilden worked the ball into the 18-yard box for England, but the header hit the bar and the follow up hit the side netting.
The final goal came after another lack of control from the North Londoners allowed Lucia García to net her second.
Kit Graham was busy for Tottenham in the closing stages and is buzzing all over the pitch, picking up the ball in space and sending a shot at goal which is blocked by Millie Turner with England’s follow up also blocked.
Photo: Spurs Women on X (Spurs women in their post game huddle)
That was the last opportunity for Spurs and the final whistle sealed a historic victory for Manchester United. Their strength, organisation and sheer desire ensured that all memories of last year’s loss to Chelsea in the final is firmly in the past.
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