Above: Wellington Phoenix players mob Macey Fraser after her stunning free kick. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
Wellington Phoenix continued their strong start to the season with a 3-1 win over Western United.
Goals to Chloe Knott and Macey Fraser in the first half were followed up by an own goal to Kiwa Hieda to give the home side a 3-0 lead before Chloe Logarzo scored a late but deserved consolation for Western.
The Phoenix were looking for their third consecutive win when they hosted last season’s runner-up at Parirua Park. Western United still needed to kickstart their season with only one win in the first three rounds. Both teams started this game with attacking intent. Kahli Johnson looked dangerous early and Mariana Speckmaier caused headaches for the Western defence and their high line.
The best early chance arrived through the genius and vision of Logarzo. The Matildas star shaped to shoot but cut the ball back to wrong foot the Wellington back line. Adriana Taranto struck it well, but her effort cannoned off the crossbar.
The game quickly became an end-to-end affair and a goal felt inevitable despite the quality defenders on either side. When the breakthrough came it was from the reliable source of Michaela Foster’s delivery.
The Phoenix fullback is one of the league’s most dangerous set piece takers and her whipped in corner caused chaos on the Western United goal line. Knott reacted best to force the ball over in the 31st minute.
Western looked to hit back immediately, but it was Wellington who scored again. Free kicks on the edge of the area often seem more dangerous than they are. For most players getting the ball up, over or around the wall while keeping it on target is harder from 20 yards than it is from further out.
What we learned today was that Macey Fraser is not most players. The Wellington midfielder’s effort curled in at pace. The strike completely wrong-footed Alyssa Dall’Oste in goal and leave her rooted to the spot as it rippled the back of the net.
Both sides continued to attack throughout, with Speckmaier seemingly determined to add her name to the scoresheet. Western continued to create chances up the other end, but the ball never fell right for them. Jacylyn Sawicki had the best chance to provide a lifeline, but her effort was scuffed with the goal at her mercy.
Despite Western’s best efforts, they had to continually wrestle momentum back from the home side. Wellington moved the ball quickly and snapped into tackles around the ground. Kate Taylor provided a strong defensive presence in midfield that allowed the attackers and fullback to take risks ahead of her. The Nix barely slowed as the afternoon wore on and when they introduced Annalie Longo, the danger only increased for the visitors.
A third goal eventually arrived, and it was Foster once more who supplied the ball in. this time it was directed into the net for an own goal by Hieda, and the result felt sealed by the 76th minute.
Western’s goal finally arrived in injury time. On the balance of the game, they deserved to score at least once and Chloe Logarzo’s effort would have been the best goal on any other day.
The Matildas great controlled the ball in Western’s attack and held up the play as her teammates streamed forward. Wellington’s defence shifted shape to try and track the runners and that provided Logarzo with all the space that she needed to produce something special.
Her long range effort looped high and dipped over Rylee Foster to make it 3-1 in spectacular fashion. When the whistle blew for the final time, it signaled an emphatic win for Wellington Pheonix.
Although Western were admirable in defeat and created plenty of chances, this was a comprehensive performance by the home side. They have player brave with the ball and committed without it across the pitch. Wellington have a good mix of flair and grunt, with some other wordly set-piece talents that will trouble any defenders in the league.
There is also depth to this side, which they have been missing in previous seasons. Taylor can switch roles when needed and Hailey Davidson has already proven to be a good recruit at left back.
Rylee Foster was reliable in goal and has Brianna Edwards as a more than capable understudy. Mackenzie Barry’s development into one of the best centre backs in the league continues as hoped.
They have started the season well. There is plenty of football left to be played, but at their best, The Wellington Phoenix have shown that they will fear nobody for the rest of 2023/24.
Lineups:
Wellington Phoenix 4-3-3: R Foster (GK), Davidson, Barry, van der Meer, M Foster, Knott, Taylor, Fraser, Main, Speckmaier, Bresline. Substitutes: Brown, Longo, Elliot, Lake, Edwards.
Goals: Knott 31’ Fraser 41’ Hieda (OG) 76’
Western United 4-2-3-1: Dall Oste’ (GK), Papadopoulos, Cerne, Maher, Vlajnic, Robers, Sawicki, Johnson, Taranto, Logarzo, Keane. Substitutes: Richards, Hieda, Prakash, Beall, Sardo
Above: Leicester City head coach Willie Kirk. Photo: Leicester City Women.
Leicester City are confident heading into their WSL fixture against Arsenal this weekend.
Ahead of Sunday’s match, head coach Willie Kirk confirmed that Shannon O’Brien will be out for “a couple of months” after a scan has revealed a calf injury. Kirk praised O’Brien’s “mental resilience” and emphasised that the club maintains a high level of support for the players on a daily basis.
The Leicester boss detailed that the team is, frustratingly, “carrying a couple of knocks” with Australian international Remy Siemsen “getting close to being back on the pitch.” This pair aside, he was believed that everyone else would be available.
Kirk has been awarded October’s Manager of the Month award. Regarding this, he reflected on the team’s growth since their 3-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion back in May. He explained that “the club has worked tirelessly trying to improve things.” Kirk also said, “I always think the first Manager of the Month award is a true reflection of the work you’ve done in pre-season.”
Touching on Missy Goodwin and her first goal of the season against Liverpool, the manager described the forward as a “young talent.” He also referenced her “relaxed” character and explained how they have been working closely together to get her “learning something new every day and pushing herself.” Kirk appears optimistic about Goodwin’s future, declaring that for the forward, “the sky is the limit.” The head coach also mentioned the club’s responsibility to “nurture her in the right way.”
In terms of his assessment of Arsenal and preparation for playing them, Kirk noted that it is “a good game to follow Liverpool” despite frustration at the team’s most recent result. The Leicester manager sees this as a chance to perform well in front of home fans.
Revisiting what has changed over the last year to enable such strong form from Leicester, Kirk again explained that recent successes are a result of “months of hard work”. He described last season’s big win against Brighton as “a breakthrough moment” and touched on the fact that such a huge result has yet to come this season for the team.
Additionally, the Foxes boss emphasised about the importance of budget, player trust, and standards off the pitch. Kirk also described the King Power Stadium as “a great place to be.” He emphasised the value of having an enjoyable environment in a workplace, and highlighted the fact that everyone plays their role. “Even plays who are frustrated at not playing understand that they are part of a bigger thing and a bigger purpose.”
Speaking on the competitiveness of the WSL this season, Leicester’s head coach maintained that he believes “the top four will be the top four” but that his side are “aware of the process we’re going through.” So far, Leicester has managed to stay in the mix of the stronger teams in the league, but Kirk remains mindful of the significance of their “continual climb” up the league table over the years.
Commenting on Arsenal’s quality and squad depth ahead of Sunday’s game, Kirk referenced the fact that the Gunners’ season has had something of a “slow start.” Jonas Eidevall’s side might be feeling slightly disappointed having been knocked out of the Champions League in the earliest stages, but Kirk explained that this could leave the team either “fresh” or “frustrated”, and that it’s up to his Leicester side to “try and capitalise on that.”
Kirk described the return from the recent international break as being “really tough” for players. Courtney Nevin got back from Australia at 2pm on Friday last week, according to the head coach. He explained that this was “frustrating” as she was only able to participate in one training session prior to the match against Liverpool.
The media also heard from midfielder Janice Cayman as part of this press conference. Cayman is a player renowned for her ability to make an impact almost anywhere on the pitch.
Ahead of the game against Arsenal on Sunday, Cayman confirmed that Leicester are confident, feel “excited” and ready to be “bouncing back from the Liverpool defeat.” Cayman explained how Leicester have had intentions to “learn and analyse” following this loss.
Talking about Leicester’s head coach, Cayman described Kirk as a “very positive person for this club.” She believes they have a “very solid squad” and are ready to push forward. She also described the club as having a “positive and professional approach to the game.”
Finally, focusing on the team’s superb start to the campaign, Cayman declared that “it’s important for us to take it step by step.” She said “every step closer to the big four is a positive one” and reiterated that in both domestic and international football, smaller teams are creeping up.
Tottenham Hotspur
By Rachel Cohen
Above: Robert Vilahamn, Tottenham Hotspur head coach. Photo: The Telegraph.
Coming after Spurs Women’s three victories in a row under new coach, Robert Vilahamn, last Sunday’s home draw against Everton felt like a bump in the road. But the team is lying third in the WSL and continues to outperform expectations, so Vilahamn’s pre-match press conference was upbeat.
Reflecting on his team’s last game, the Spurs boss had praise for both Drew Spence and Martha Thomas.
“She (Drew) gives us so much being actually good on the ball. Calm it down. Make sure we can control and dictate the ball higher up the pitch. And I’m not using her too much in the build-up, so I’m gonna have her higher up to make sure we can dictate the game in their half as well. Last game she did an assist and she was brilliant in that phase.”
He also was full of praise for Thomas who, for the first time in a Spurs shirt, did not find the back of the net. “I don’t think Martha was happy with the performance, but I see how it was creating really good chances and there’s a goalkeeper in Everton doing a really amazing saves on those.
“It’s more for herself to make sure that she believes that she’s a really good footballer because she is. You know, this game was the same as the other game. She was excellent. She created chances. She pressed her opponent to win the ball for us (to score the goal) so I just hope that she can get the goals anyway, but it’s good for the team to score those goals.”
Despite their attacking verve, Spurs have now conceded three penalties in five games, the last two from clumsy fouls on the edge of the box and Vilahamn explained that this is something they have focused on in training. “how can you actually make sure you defend in a different way in the in the box and outside the box.” “We just need to not do the same mistakes twice. That’s the thing I want to improve basically.”
Against Everton, 20-year-old loanee Grace Clinton put in an impressive performance and scored before conceding the late penalty. Vilahamn noted that defence was a part of her game he was working on with her. “Grace Clinton is a very young player who is really great offensively and in the press, but she’s not so used to defend the last five minutes in the Women’s Super League, so she needs to learn from that as well, right?”
More generally Vilahamn said he was pleasantly surprised by Spurs’ development. “I was thinking like until Christmas, we’re probably going fail quite much, but we haven’t failed too much, so I’m happy about that.
“I still think we’re going to come to those games where we don’t succeed. But I’m very happy with how we have succeeded with the game style. The last game when we created that many goal chances, that was also a good thing because in the preseason we didn’t really create goal chances. We had a good build-up, but we didn’t really take that. And I think in other games we haven’t received so many goal chances. This time we didn’t score so many goals though, so now you need to focus on, ‘OK, how do you score goals?”
Vilahamn has started the same 11 players in four of the five WSL games so far (the fifth game involved just one change: Jess Naz for Drew Spence). But with Spurs’ squad all fit except Beth England, the Spurs manager faces a new problem – managing players who are not getting minutes. Vilahamn explained that this is “the hardest thing. As a coach, I think to make sure everybody understands and accepts.”
“I think that’s my biggest working area right now to deal with the 25 players who want to play. So I think I spend more time with the players outside the squad than in the starting 11 right now, trying to make sure to show them where are they in the hierarchy.
“I’m trying to be as transparent as I can be, and make sure that they know what to work on. And the good thing here is that we have a very professional environment. So you can give them the feedback, the video clips, and make sure they know it, and then if they don’t accept it, I just need them to work hard anyway because you know that’s the environment we have here.”
Vilahamn explained that the reason for starting with a consistent 11 was that those starting players then feel trusted and are clear about how to maintain their spots “You know if you’re in, you’re actually playing until somebody beats you out and you’re not.”
Looking forward to Sunday Vilahamn described opponents Liverpool as playing “good football and they press really good and they have some really talented players, I think they are one of those teams who compete with us to try to break into the top table. And I think they are performing very well. They are good. But hopefully we are still a little bit better than them because I want to be before them in the table when this season ends.”
The upcoming game is Spurs’ second home game in a row. Spurs play at Brisbane Road a stadium they share with Leyton Orient and the two clubs worked together to improve the quality of the pitch over the summer.
Vilahamn was very positive about outcome and the grass that he described as “really good” and enabling Spurs to “play the style we want to.” He also gave a nod to the club’s home fans, whose presence gave the team a boost when “they’re actually singing with us and cheering for us in the last five minutes.”
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Above:Casey Dumont unveiled today as a Central Coast Mariners player. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Central Coast Mariners.
Central Coast Mariners have today announced the signing of goalkeeper Casey Dumont.
The 31-year-old joins the club with an exceptionally powerful A-League Women resume, first starting her career with Brisbane Roar back in the inaugural season of the competition.
Making her debut just one year later at 16, Dumont went on to make 44 appearances for the Queensland outfit, winning one Premiership and two Championships.
From there she made her way to Sydney FC, playing 20 times for the Sky Blues. During her time at the club, Dumont was first selected to become a Matilda, making three appearances for the senior national team.
Following a brief stint with Western Sydney Wanderers, the goalkeeper became a major player at Melbourne Victory, featuring 71 times over six seasons. As she continued to prove to be one of the top keepers in the competition, Dumont won almost everything on offer.
From Premierships to Championships, the goalkeeper regularly played a key role in securing silverware. Dumont had a standout 2021/22 season, winning both Goalkeeper of the Year and the Grand Final Player of the Match.
After another strong season in Melbourne and having recently completed her first campaign in the AFLW competition with Hawthorn, Dumont now joins the Central Coast Mariners for their first season back in the A-League Women.
The goalkeeper put pen to paper to become a Mariner before the beginning of this campaign, finishing off the AFLW season with the Hawks before joining the team in training this week. Dumont is thrilled to be on the Coast, eager for the season ahead.
Above: Casey Dumont in action for Melbourne Victory. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
“I am super excited to be joining the Mariners this season. There is so much footballing talent in this team and on the Coast, so it is great to be a part of this squad,” Dumont said.
“I would like to thank the Mariners for being open to allowing me to continue to be a dual-sport athlete, playing both AFL and football. They have been working with Hawthorn the whole time to prepare for me to join the club once the AFL season finished, keeping in contact regularly with me.
“I have already felt a fantastic vibe around the club. They are very family-orientated; their focus is on making sure that we are all happy which results in the best performances. At the end of the day, who doesn’t love the beautiful Central Coast, it was an opportunity that I couldn’t turn down.”
Mariners head coach Emily Husband was delighted to finally be able to announce the signing of Dumont having completed the deal weeks ago.
“Casey is going to make a massive difference for us not only on the field but also off it. She has come in and immediately inserted herself into the group, it is amazing to have her in the team. She brings a wealth of experience and elevates the competition in the squad,” Husband said.
“We always intended to have Casey join the team once the AFLW season concluded, having spoken to her when we began to form the team. We are pleased to have her on the Central Coast and are excited to see what she can bring for us this season.”
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Above:Aston Villa boss Carla Ward, who believes her side can build on their midweek success over Sheffield United to defeat Bristol City this weekend. Photo: Aston Villa.
On Wednesday, Aston Villa secured their first win of the season as they dispatched Sheffield United 5-0 in their first match of the Conti Cup group stage. Star striker Rachel Daly scored a hattrick whilst the returning Ebony Salmon scored her first of the season. An unlikely goal from defender Dan Turneradded to the air of positivity.
The big news for Villa however was that Kenza Dali, a pivotal player for her club and country, made her return. The attacking midfielder last made an appearance for the Villains 171 days prior following an injury she picked up during the World Cup.
Ahead of the hugely important match against Bristol City this weekend, head coach Carla Ward spoke of the “unbelievable talent” that Dali has, and how much of a “good person” the midfielder is to have both “around the dressing room and on the pitch.” Ward revealed that the 32-year-old is indeed “in contention to start” this weekend.
However, it has been disclosed that striker Simone Magill, has suffered further injury off the back of international duty, of which the club at first “weren’t aware of.” Magill “continues to be out” of the squad but she will be assessed once again next week. The attacker has a continuing problem with her quad muscle, which has been further aggravated over the break. After playing a “90 and 40” minute game whilst away, this has “ultimately put her back again.”
“It’s about working together (with Northern Ireland) to ensure that we can get her fit for as many games as possible… we’ll work collectively to try and make sure that she comes back from international duty in the right condition,” Ward reassured.
Looking towards this weekend’s clash at the bottom of the league table against Bristol City, Ward doesn’t doubt that, despite Villa perhaps being the favourites to win, it is “going to be a tough game.” The newly promoted side has had some “really good moments” thus far, despite them conceding the most goals in the league, along with Aston Villa.
As things stand, Bristol City are sitting a place above Villa at the bottom of the league table with three points following their first win of the season against West Ham United last weekend.
Above: Bristol City celebrate a goal in their win at Sheffield United in midweek. Photo: Aston Villa Women.
That Conti Cup victory over Sheffield United has been an opportunity to rebuild the side’s confidence. Villa have suffered a tough run, especially after their heart-breaking loss against Chelsea. Despite it being the first time in her present job that Ward has faced this hardship, she remains determined to “stick together”.
“You don’t get anywhere in life without challenges… the more you fall on your face, the more you learn… whatever happens this will be a really important learning curve for myself,” Ward remarked.
On having the players’ faith remaining behind her Ward stated: “It’s what keeps you going… I asked outright to some of the leaders of the group, ‘Have I got the dressing room?’ and the answer was ‘100% wholeheartedly’… the players know that I will give them everything…the one thing I pride myself on is treating the players right and so in these moments where it does become tough its very very easy to point the finger at the manager.
“Through building those relationships with players, they then have your back as well as you having theirs… that’s something I’m immensely proud of… I must admit, after the Chelsea game getting so many messages as I did from the players was something that absolutely kept me going.”
Villa’s uncomfortable 6-0 loss at home to Chelsea last weekend was followed by the news that Blues boss Emma Hayes would be ending her 12-year tenure at the club at the end of the season, with her being strongly tied to the open position of head coach for the United States national team.
Ward and Hayes have a close relationship, with the Chelsea boss mentoring Ward throughout her managerial career. The Villa head coach reflected: “Any decision that you make around not just your career, but your family, is the right decision and we had that conversation when she spoke to me about it.
“I think it’s massively important that you do what is right not just for your career but for your family and I wish her all the best whatever she does because she’s an exceptional human, she’s helped me a lot.”
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Above: The Aston Villa team celebrating their first goal of the season against Marc Skinner’s Manchester United Photo: Aston Villa Women on Instagram.
Aston Villa suffered their fifth consecutive league loss this past weekend after league leaders Chelsea put six past the home side at the Bescot Stadium. So far, they have lost every fixture of their 2023/24 campaign in the WSL.
It’s safe to say that the high expectations have come crashing down dramatically after the results Carla Ward’s side have seen. With their phenomenal spirit and determination, the team skilfully saw themselves securing the fifth-place spot at the end of their their 22-23 campaign. This time however, the Villans seem to be continuously met with misery as five weeks in a row they have failed to secure a single point, which leaves them in the relegation spot.
In this review of Aston Villa’s season so far, attributes such as predictions, statistics on Villa’s most influential players, squad depth, and the influence of Ward’s management are reviewed to try and determine just where this Villa side seems to be finding things going wrong in comparison with their exceptional performances last season.
Pre-season predictions
Before this season’s WSL began, it’s no surprise that people were predicting the Villa side would be pushing for a top-three spot. The summer window saw the club bring in some excellent reinforcements in the form of players from across the globe.
During the five league matches that have been played so far, Villa have run into a number of unexpected challenges that the team have had to overcome. Factors contributing to their rocky start to the race have come in many forms, and they seemed to have been just short of finding a winning solution in some weeks.
Regardless of how Villa performs over the rest of the season, it may be quite the task to climb back from the minus-12 goal difference they currently have.
Above: Captain Rachel Corsie (left) battling it out against Arsenal Photo: Aston Villa Women
Management and leadership
As a result of Carla Ward’s record with Aston Villa, it’s imaginable she is well up to the task of pushing her side through this rough patch that they’ve hit. Since her appointment in 2021, Villa have been slowly climbing their way up the table, and progressing to the FA Cup semi-final last season where they suffered a 1-0 loss against Chelsea.
In three seasons, the side has progressed from fighting relegation to pushing the top-of-the-table teams, and even claiming success over Arsenal in their last fixture of the 22-23 season. There is credit due to Ward for her efforts, and she has expressed just how frustrating Villa’s string of losses have been.
Their next fixture is an away trip to Aston Gate, facing newly promoted Bristol City. The Villa boss is aware of the impact that not finding a result in this huge clash could leave her future with the side in real jeopardy.
Although her future with the club may hang in the balance, the Villa squad hold Ward in high esteem, and player Rachel Daly recently expressed the side’s intentions to ‘“fight for Carla” and “back the manager” as they try to move out of the tough position they have found themselves in. It’s just a small glimpse of the attitude that the team has, and it reflects that same attitude that has seen them through so much success in the past.
Throughout the season, it is not just Ward’s leadership that is going to see Aston Villa through this patch. The club have named a four-player leadership team to captain the side. Rachel Corsie, who is heavily respected by her peers, will take the captaincy position. Alongside her, three vice-captains Lucy Staniforth, Rachel Daly, and Dan Turner follow, and they all hold a vast amount of experience across the pitch in their respective positions.
Villa may be struggling to gain a point, but the leadership they have within the club is a strong system that will be considerably vital in the team improving their performances, more specifically through the mentality and determination they bring.
Above: New signing Daphne Van Domselaar in action for Villa. Photo: Aston Villa.
Defence
Across the summer window, Aston Villa had an impressive recruitment that has led to the further development of her side. Arguably, the biggest transfer was the signing of Dutch goalkeeper Daphne Van Domselaar from FC Twente, who has put in some stellar performances so far.
Despite Van Domselaar’s capability between the sticks, the defensive system in front of her that Ward has been utilising so far hasn’t worked out. Consistently, a back four has primarily been used, although they have struggled to provide Van Domselaar with reinforcements, leading to a total of 16 goals conceded.
Ward last season notably favoured a 4-1-4-1 formation over the 4-3-3 that she seems to be utilising more frequently after testing a 4-2-3-1 for the opening two games of the season. Although there is consistency through the regular use of a back four, the fullbacks that Ward typically deploys to drive the ball forwards towards the box are not able to be as progressive in their play as normal, for example Maz Pacheco is usually one of the players that takes on this role.
Without the impact of Kirsty Hanson and Kenza Dali, the defensive players that move up the pitch are often getting caught out in counterattacks as they attempt to move into the final third. This was something that occurred frequently during the Chelsea game, and Emma Hayes’ side were able to capitalise on Villa’s mistakes.
To add to the lack of defensive depth, another summer signing, Lucy Parker, has been ruled out of the mix for an unknown period of time after recently sustaining an injury to her ankle whilst on international duty.
Above: Laura Blindkilde Brown, Aston Villa Women’s young player of the year for the 22-23 season. Photo: Aston Villa.
Midfield partnerships and goal-scorers
If you look at some of the errors that are coming from the back four and defensive partnerships within the Villa lineup, two of the team’s top performers and most consistent achievers can be found in the midfield. Both Lucy Staniforth and Laura Blindkilde have proved their worth to the side last season, and they continue to perform well throughout the fixtures they have gained minutes in.
Staniforth has started every WSL game for Villa so far this season, and her passing accuracy currently sits at an average of 77%. Her ability in possession and frequent use of short passes is a credit to her years of experience, not just in the league playing for teams such as Manchester United, but also her time representing England internationally. She is by far one of the most valuable assets to the Villa side, particularly through her capability connect the Villa defence to the attack to ensure that the play progresses forwards.
Blindkilde, at just 20 years old, she finds herself consistently playing regular minutes for her team and has made a starting appearance for four out of five fixtures so far. In this week’s Conti Cup fixture, the young star made her 50th appearance for the team. The energy that she is able to bring on the pitch is a huge advantage, as she makes smart decisions on the ball and is frequently found in the box when Villa are on the attack. This gives her side more options in terms of players that are available in goalscoring positions.
Alongside Staniforth and Blindkilde, Villa have other talents available for midfield in the form of players such as Jordan Nobbs who has years of experience, and Olivia McLoughlin, a talented youngster who spent last season out on loan to Birmingham City.
Despite the efforts of the team, one thing that Villa has severely lacked this season is the ability to be creative with chances in the final third, which has subsequently led to a goal shortage. Across their WSL campaign so far this season, they have netted just four goals, two of which coming from their star striker, Rachel Daly. I think some of the problems that Villa have, although they still have such a talented cohort on the pitch, stem from the loss of two of the most important playmakers in the team.
Above: Attacking partnership Rachel Daly and Kenza Dali celebrating a successful strike on the pitch. Photo: Aston Villa.
Of course, Villa has Daly, who has time and time again proven herself to be a player key to Ward’s side, therefore they often played to her strengths as a striker as a focus of the team tactics. Daly has also become a firm fan favourite in Claret and Blue, and they often commend her phenomenal work rate and mentality as her role in the side has been detrimental to their achievement.
Two of the sources that are pinpoint causes of the team’s inability to score and get the ball through for Daly to strike, are the effect of the absent Kenza Dali through injury, and Kirsty Hanson through a three-match suspension.
During the opening game of the season for Villa, Hanson picked up a red card after a tough challenge on Hayley Ladd. It was later announced that the clubs appeal to reduce Hanson’s ban from the match squad was unsuccessful, and she was only able to return to play in the 6-0 loss to Chelsea.
Hanson’s physicality on the pitch is often a big advantage for Villa, and the Scottish international’s statistics from last season put into perspective how much of a challenge it would’ve been on the team to lose her for three matches. Not only did Hanson win 72% of her tackles, but she also created 36 chances and scored seven goals, plus adding a tally of nine assists to her name.
Alongside Hanson, another figure that’s been missing from the pitch is France’s Kenza Dali. Since her signing from Everton, Dali has been one of the most influential figures in the squad and is known to have a strong relationship with her peers off the pitch as well as on it. It’s obvious that her presence as a player was sorely missed on the pitch, and it was clear there was no obvious concrete plan or way to fill the space she was able to cover, meaning Daly has often been working to cover the position alongside her own. Despite her efforts, there is no way for her to do it all without her key assist maker.
The pair have a partnership on the pitch that would be hard to replicate, mostly between them they have such a clear understanding of each other’s play, so the effect of missing Dali has impacted the number of goals that Daly has been able to score thus far with the loss of their dynamic.
Last season, with 51 chances created for her side, scoring five goals and making eight assists, Dali was a huge contributor to the Villa side. Again, on a more positive note, Dali was finally back in the match squad on Wednesday evening after being on the sidelines for a significant period of time with an injury of unknown origin.
Alongside the key figures outlined, players who are yet to see a significant number of minutes in the WSL for Villa are new signings, Adriana Leon and Ebony Salmon, who are both talented in their respective positions. Salmon, who played for the club in her youth, scored a quality goal for the side in their Continental Cup tie against Sheffield United, and Leon started alongside her. After the 5-0 win on Wednesday evening, hopefully, some further confidence has been instilled in the team, and perhaps they will find their first win this upcoming weekend.
Above: The Villa team celebrating after their fifth goal against Sheffield United. Photo: Aston Villa Women.
Moving forwards
I think that despite how difficult the opening to the WSL campaign has been for Villa; they show a strength and resilience as a side that’s to be admired. The dynamic and technical ability they had to work so seamlessly together in the previous season is something that they as a side are working towards achieving again, and it’s slowly beginning to show itself.
Hope is beginning to grow, as the side found a comfortable victory over Championship side Sheffield United during the week. For the team’s first Continental Cup tie, the Villans truly did put on a superlative display that resulted in a triumphant 5-0 win to remind people of just how capable they are. It is to be hoped that the result will serve as a confidence booster and it is a reminder of just how stacked full of talent the Villa squad is.
Across the course of the next few fixtures of the season, it’ll be interesting to watch how Aston Villa can apply their tactics and successes from this match to the sides that they will face in upcoming weeks, particularly before they face Gareth Taylor’s Manchester City in early December. With the return of faces like Dali and Hanson, hopefully, the team will be able to take shape yet again and find that stellar rhythm they built up throughout last season yet again.
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Above: Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis talking to the media today. Image: Perth Glory.
Whilst his side are top of the A-League Women ladder with three wins from three, Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis insists his focus is solely on ensuring their style and performance levels remain high.
“We focus on some key areas of our football and our playing style that we want to get really good at and that’s our overall internal exciting challenge. The by-product of that is a good performance and a good result and ideally three points.
“The moment we only focus on wins is when we lose track of what we are doing on the field and what we are trying to build. I want us to focus on the things that are important to us, and our identity, and our playing style, and let’s chase perfection in those areas, and the results will take care of itself.”
Another strong performance last weekend in the nation’s capital ensured that the Western Australians finally claimed a victory on Canberra soil.
“The players wanted to be part of the first Perth Glory team to go over there and win a game. It was a nice side story, but the main thing was the three points. We would have liked a bit more control after we conceded that 3-2 goal. In games, you get tested in different ways, and ours was to make sure we were resolute, structured, and confident in not having the ball at times.”
Whilst Perth conceded their first goals of the campaign in their win at McKellar Park, there still is immense pride in the fact that the league leaders remain strong at the back – and the key to that is everyone having responsibility for denying space to the opposition, as Epakis highlighted.
Above: Sofia Sakalis gets a shot in on goal during last weekend’s win at Canberra United. Photo: Perth Glory.
“We’ve done extremely well not to concede from open play yet, and we’ve spoken a lot about that. It’s about structure and being really eager to ensure that defending is a collective effort and not just on the back four and the keeper.”
Whilst last weekend’s match offered opportunities to a few more Glory players to get their first minutes of the season, one of the club’s key signings, striker Quinley Quezeda is yet to have any minutes. It sounds like that is about to change, and the Philippines’ record scorer is ready to be unleashed.
“We have a full squad available this week. Quinley had a quick turnaround from her Philippines duties and she was also carrying a soft tissue injury coming into that (international) camp. We’ll benefit from that in the weeks ahead as she’s fully fit, firing, and ready to contribute.”
With the Glory having overcome Canberra last weekend, they now face another team they have found it hard to get the better of in recent years, as Adelaide United make the trip to Macedonia Park this Saturday. The South Australians contain two players that Perth fans know all about – Alana Jancevski and Hannah Blake – a pair who will pose a significant threat on their return to Western Australia.
“Adelaide have some good quality attacking quality,” Epakis recognised. “They’ll come here looking for three points. They are well-coached and have really established a strong squad and program over the last few seasons. They are doing some really great things and it’s important to recognise that.
“We go well (against them) and always compete, but they’ve always had the edge in specific moments across key games, but I think now we have the character, the experience, and the quality to win those really important moments in the battle and I think we’ll see that on the weekend.”
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For this week’s Midweek Dub, Impetus’ Ben Gilby speaks to Adelaide United’s exciting attacker Alana Jancevski about her move to South Australia, a successful NPLW Victoria campaign, and her aspirations for the season ahead(8/11/23).
Above: Alana Jancevski in action for Adelaide United this season. Photo: Courtney Pedlar/Adelaide United.
Alana Jancevski is one of the most watchable players in the A-League Women. The attacker is someone who can reach into her sock, pull out her magic wand, and produce the most outrageous piece of skill or score a goal out of nothing.
The 20-year-old, who, in a previous interview with me described the football pitch as being her playground, made the move from Perth Glory to Adelaide United in pre-season, and the reports that the settling-in process is going well.
“It’s (Adelaide) referred to as the little sister to Melbourne (Jancevski originates from Victoria), so I guess it’s pretty similar. I threw myself in the deep end again, not knowing anyone. It’s pretty daunting but it allows you to grow. I’ve been trying to immerse myself with as many players as possible. Everyone is on the same page with what we want to do.”
The decision to move to Adelaide after two years in Perth was one that was made simpler for the attacker after her initial discussions with Reds head coach Adrian Stenta.
Above: Alana Jancevski in action on her Adelaide United debut against Canberra United. Photo: Courtney Pedlar/Adelaide United.
“What attracted me to the club was how Adrian was as a person and the culture he has built here. The style of his play is something that enticed me. He has instilled a family environment which is very much in my heart being a family girl. It’s allowed me to be really happy and have a good pre-season, one I’m proud of, and will allow me to be that unique player I want to be, to express myself, and be really supported by the coaching staff and players.
“I was at Perth for two years and grew a lot as a player and a person. I just felt for myself it was the right time to try something new. One thing was to get a bit more game time, and the style of play that Adrian (Stenta) wanted to play attracted me. There was interest from clubs around, and it was difficult to make a decision, but those were the deciding factors in the end.”
Jancevski moved to South Australia on the back of another successful season in the NPLW Victoria with Bulleen Lions. The club finished top of the ladder at the end of the season before going down 4-2 to South Melbourne in the Grand Final. Despite coming into the team midway through the campaign due to clashes with the previous A-League Women season, the 20-year-old hit the ground running.
“It was a season I’m really proud of. The mentality I went into the NPL season was like a kind of hunting mentality and just really wanted to get better and push myself. That really showed in how I was doing in training and how much extra stuff I was doing and it showed in games. To come in late and still score 13 times and get lots of assists was a very successful season for myself and allowed me to come into the A-League season in good shape and conditioning.”
One of the more unfortunate moments of Jancevski’s season with Bulleen was the accidental pole-axing of teammate and close friend Claudia Mihocic after the young defender announced her return from long-term injury with a goal in extra-time in the semi-final with Calder United. Reliving the moment caused Jancevski to collapse into a fit of giggles.
“I think that was a bit of WWE! I didn’t even notice at the time! Watching it back, I was like ‘Oh my God, I strangled her!’ It was all that excitement and adrenaline. To see a friend that has gone through a lot and flourish now. I’ve always rated her highly and hopefully that continues to grow for her.”
“…oh no, I haven’t thought this through.”
Claudia Mihocic on the risks of celebrating a winning goal with Alana Jancevski.
Turning back to the new A-League Women campaign with Adelaide United, Jancevski recognises that she is part of a new-look attack after long-time Reds strikers Chelsie Dawber and Fiona Worts both moved on in the close season and, whilst the Adelaide hit four goals in their opening game with Canberra, there is still a way to go before they reach their full potential.
“When you are working with new players, it takes time to understand everyone as everyone is their own unique player. I think we have a lot of quality up front that I really enjoy playing with. You have seen that already with some of the goals we’ve scored. We know we can be better and that will continue to grow through the season as we grow together. I think it’s really promising.”
“For myself, a successful season is making Finals and winning the league. That’s what drives me, I’m so competitive. I want to win and that’s at the forefront of my mind all the time. For me, it’s reaching consistency and being that 90-minute player that can be relied upon to score goals and providing assists.
“What’s big for me is not turning away from the player that I am, and I have fun creating the unique qualities that I want to continue to do and continue to refine. Something like the assist in the first game, I’ve been practicing that for years. To see something like that come off just shows that part of the game that I love to have fun.”
Long may Alana Jancevski continue having fun on the football pitch – the footballing world is so much better off as a result.
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Above: Aston Villa’s Alisha Lehmann celebrating a goal at Arsenal in May. Her persistent treatment from elements of the media needs to change. Photo: Adam Johnstone for Impetus.
Disrespecting women and female footballers is part of society and prevalent in the women’s game. This misogyny does not just come from individual men, but also some parts of the media, which sexualizes some players, presents others as ‘masculine’ and vilifies them to no end, and creates an aura around some players because they are confident then they have to be arrogant.
Aston Villa’s Swiss international Alisha Lehmann has 16 million followers on Instagram – one of the most followed female footballers. The type of coverage that some media outlets impose on her can be encapsulated by this comment from the Daily Mail: “World’s sexiest footballer Alisha Lehmann is targeted by trolls for wearing make-up during Switzerland’s 7-1 drubbing by Spain – and posting photos from the game on Instagram.”
Why is it that they have started off with “World’s sexiest footballer’, and not just her name? There is no reason why the Daily Mail should be using “World’s sexiest footballer” as a clickbait headline. The Daily Mail is not alone in doing this. I feel it dehumanises Alisha Lehmann and it makes her out to be some sort of seductress. Indeed, with this dehumanisation, it makes the audience more likely to sexualise her.
There are many articles that use her name to gather more interaction and more engagement trying to hook in the male audience, there are many players who are constantly sexualised.
Above: Sam Kerr, another player who has suffered from persistent misogynistic comments. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Something that I feel is interesting is the way the internet views Sam Kerr. Australia’s top goal scorer is viewed in a completely different way from Lehmann. Where the Swiss star is sexualised for being “too feminine” the opposite is done with Kerr.
The Matilda has a comparatively masculine presence in the way she dresses off the pitch. There are a number of instances of men or boys viewing in a masculine way. Kerr is currently in a relationship with American footballer Kristie Mewis, and it has, again been commented that it is Kerr who “wears the trousers.”
It is time that these women in football are not seen as objects or villains, for the media’s gratification to create some elaborate narrative of who is good and who is bad. These are simply woman who are doing their job.
Whilst there will always be individuals who want to be sexual or vilify woman, it’s another matter when media outlets are doing this and attacking women for simply being “unapologetically” themselves.
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Above:Katie Knights (yellow) scoring for Norwich City in their 4-2 win over Ashford Town (Middx). Photo: Norwich City Women.
FA Women’s National League Division One South East
Norwich City were 4-2 winners over Ashford Town (Middx). Alice Parker scored a brace for the Canaries with Natasha Snelling and Katie Knights getting their other two goals. Impetus sponsored Ashley Cheatley and Millie Constantine scored for the Middlesex-based visitors.
Eastern Region League Cup Second Round
Wroxham secured a 6-1 win at Southend United Community Sports Club. Two goals from Holly Connell and one each from Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley, Keela Olive, and Hannah Fuller helped Wroxham on their way. Chloe Woolaway scored for Southend.
Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers also progressed with a 5-1 win at Histon. A goal from Rachel Bussey plus a couple each from Chelsea Brister and Victoria Leyer saw the visitord take a comfortable win. Amie Fullwood scored for Histon.
It wasn’t a good day for Thetford Town who were beaten 2-0 at home by Bowers and Pitsea thanks to a brace from Olivia Harris.
The tie between Mulbarton Wanderers and Billericay Development was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
Eastern Region Premier Division
King’s Lynn Town were beaten 10-0 at Royston. Jordan Sillitoe scored a hat-trick with Emma Slater and Erin Davies getting two each. The three remaining goals were scored by Laura Mills, Stacey Roper, and Emily Smith.
Above: Action from the match between Royston Town (white) and King’s Lynn Town. Photo: Stuart Cobb.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One
Aylsham’s game versus the league leaders Mulbarton Development was postponed which meant the chasing pack had the opportunity to take advantage in tier seven on Sunday and they certainly did that.
Caister went top with a 3-1 win over King’s Lynn Soccer Club, Rebecca Waters scored a brace with Megan Bartlett scoring the other. Jordan Turner scored for King’s Lynn Soccer Club.
Sprowston moved into second with a 7-0 win over Thorpe St. Andrew. Kelsi Adams, Mollie O’Callaghan, and Holly Whayman each scored two, with Lois Wright getting the other goal.
Bungay Town continued their unbeaten start to the season with a comfortable 4-1 win over Long Stratton. Lauren Goulder scored a brace with Porsha Renwick and Selina Rowland scoring the others. Caitlin Skipper scored for Long Stratton.
In the day’s remaining tier seven game, Cassandra Piejko scored a hat-trick as the University of East Anglia beat North Walsham Town 3-0 to secure a valuable three points for Thomas Peck’s side.
Above: It was a happy day for Thomas Peck (pictured) as his University of East Anglia side beat North Walsham Town 3-0 at Colney Lane thanks to a hat-trick from Cassandra Piejko. Photo: Ben Cunningham
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two
As with Division One, the leaders (Bure Valley) had their match postponed. With their trip to Martham falling victim to the weather, other sides could take advantage.
Mundford were 6-0 winners over South Walsham Lingwood thanks to a hat-trick from Ellen Kerby, a brace from Livvi Hodges, and a goal from Bethany Seymour. Stalham won 2-0 at Red Rose thanks to both goals coming from Emma Gillespie. Those results mean Bure Valley, Mundford, and Stalham are all level on 18 points at the top after seven games played.
Kate Roome and Kiera Squires both scored as Freethorpe secured a fine 2-0 win. Ellie Fewkes-Woodrow and Neneh Jeffrey both found the net as Shrublands beat Waveney 2-0.
Elsewhere, in the derby match between Horsford Hurricanes and Horsford Harriers, it was the Harriers who came out on top with a 1-0 win. The match between Beccles Town Development and FC Viking Valkyries was postponed.
Above: Action from the Match between Mundford (red) and South Walsham Lingwood at The Glebe on Sunday. Photo: SG Photography.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Sevens Division One
Taverham were 2-0 winners over Horsford thanks to goals from Laura Nunn and Sophie Rose. In the day’s other game, Dussindale and Hellesdon were 7-0 winners at Waveney. The games between Rockland United and Left Field plus the fixture between Loddon United and Mulbarton Wanderers were both postponed.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Sevens Division Two
FC Viking Valkyries ran out comfortable 8-0 winners over Hockering. Sharnie Boast, Lisa Ferdani, and Kayleigh Ellwood each scored two, with Jane Diver and Olivia Shaw scoring the other goals. Aylsham were 3-2 winners at the University of East Anglia thanks to goals from Emma Wayte, Hannah Burton, and Nadia Jolly.
Above: Holly Connell scored twice and was Player of the Match and scored twice for Wroham in their 6-1 win over Southend Community Sports Club in the Eastern Region League Cup on Sunday. Photo: Wroxham Women FC
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Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarises the sixth round of the 2023-2024 D1 Arkema season and also adds includes his weekly MATILDAS WATCH (7/11/23).
Above:Ellie Carpenter (white shirt) on a trademark break through for Olympique Lyonnais at Paris FC at the weekend.Photocourtesy of: Pauline Figuet.
Paris FC 1-6 Olympique Lyonnais
This game was the big new confrontation in D1 Arkema between the two unbeaten teams and it was a very good football game. A few changes were made by Sonia Bompastor, Lyon’s Coach, for this game. Ada Hegerberg, the first Ballon d’Or winner, was in the starting lineup after a long gap, and Melchie Dumornay was placed as lead midfielder for the first time with Lyon.
Lyon began immediately with an incredible goal from Eugénie Le Sommer. Selma Bacha shot and then regained possession the ball, making a decisive pass to Le Sommer in the first minute. Paris FC reacted strongly, and Christiane Endler, Lyon’s goalkeeper, had to make a great save to prevent them from levelling the score. However, Julie Dufour scored just before the half-hour for the hosts to pull level. Paris FC continued to push hard and one minute later, Endler made another stop. The hard work of Kadidiatou Diani on the right, allowed her to deliver a pass to Hegerberg who scored for Lyon on 38 minutes.
Two minutes later, Le Sommer made the breakthrough for Lyon by scoring their third. The visitors started the second half well – with Hegerberg scoring on a bad clearance by the Paris FC defence. Endler was then called on again – this time on 49 minutes – responding to a lob from Dufour from 35 metres out. This game was not as easy for Lyon as the score suggested; Paris provided a good test and never let it go, but Lyon was stronger, especially with its bench. They had five international players enter in the second half, which allowed them to keep the pace up to the end. Scorer for Paris FC: Dufour (29’). Scorers for Lyon: Le Sommer (1’, 40’), Hegerberg (38’, 48’), Dabritz (68’), Diani (90’).
MATILDAS WATCH – Sarah Hunter was in the Paris FC squad, but did not play in this match.After returning early from Australia’s three-game Olympic qualifiers in the international window, Ellie Carpenter was able to start for Lyon. Carpenter had a strong performance but picked up a deserved yellow card on 25 minutes. She also almost delivered a goalscoring pass to Sara Dabritz, and another one to Vicki Becho towards the end of the match.
Above: Ada Hegerberg (14) celebrates after scoring for Olympique Lyonnais at Paris FC. Photo courtesy of: Pauling Figuet.
Paris Saint-Germain v Guingamp
This game, which saw Clare Hunt named in the PSG squad, was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
Lille 0-0 Montpellier
Lille edged the first minutes of this match and the first shot on target was for them, however Montpellier started to react at the end of the first quarter and Sonia Ouchene hit the crossbar with a shot from 20 metres. The remainder of the first half was very even, but it was not the best advert for D1 Arkema so far this season. Montpellier had a little bit more of the ball in the second half than Lille but lacked accuracy to convert their domination into goals.
Bordeaux 0-2 Reims
Reims won this game away from home to go back into the top five thanks to goals from Gomes (61’), and Mouchon (90’+1).
Le Havre 3-3 Dijon
Still no win at home for Le Havre this season after strugglers Dijon grabbed an equaliser in stoppage time at the end of the 90 minutes. Scorers for Le Havre: Cance (27’), Elisor (37’), Cardia (82’). Scorers for Dijon: Abdu (59’), Declercq (74’ penalty), Picard (90’+2).
Fleury 2-1 Saint-Etienne
With this result, Fleury stay in the top five and Saint-Etienne remain bottom. Scorers for Fleury: Louis (2’), Fernandes (71’). Scorers for Saint-Etienne: Champagnac (87’).
Above: The Olympique Lyonnais team that started their away game at Paris FC. Photo courtesy of: Pauline Figuet.
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