by Martin Townley, Impetus’ Cymru Correspondent (24/10/23).
Above: Swansea City celebrate a goal in their 2-1 win at The New Saints. Photo: F28 Online.
Adran Premier
Barry Town United 4-2 Cardiff Met
A first win for Barry despite going behind after just three minutes to Amy Long’s strike. Barry were level straight after the opener as Aimee Deacon fired home. The hosts then went into the lead in the 16th minute after good work from Tate Trivett on the left allowed her to put the ball across goal, where India Shanahan was able to fire home. Barry added a third before halftime through Holly Jenkins and could have had a fourth when Lucy Atwood’s free-kick hit the bar.
Cardiff Met’s task became harder in the 51st minute as Grace Batsford was given a second yellow card for a cynical foul. The ten did get a goal back when former Barry player Faith Mulenga scored. The hosts clearly wanted the win and Met struggled to make any inroads against the yellow wall of Barry players. Tate Trivett, who had been outstanding all game sealed the win in the 86th minute with a stunning solo goal.
The New Saints 1-2 Swansea City
Above: Katy Hosford on the charge for Swansea City at The New Saints. Photo: F28 Online.
A tight game between the Saints and the Swans saw a goalless first half. Just after an hour, Stacy John-Davies broke the deadlock firing in from close range after a fine ball from Nieve Jenkins.
With six minutes to play TNS were level thanks to Ella Hartley’s stunning top corner strike from outside the box.
The Saints were denied a point in added time. Alicia Powe sent a long ball into the box where Robyn Pinder brought the ball down off her chest and coolly slotted past the keeper to seal the win for Swansea.
Pontypridd United 1-5 Cardiff City
Above: Molly Kehoe runs to celebrate after scoring for Cardiff City at Pontypridd United. Photo: Cardiff City.
The Bluebirds went three points clear with a big over at USW Sports Park. Eliza Collie got City’s first after 16 minutes. Siobhan Walsh and Molly Kehoe both struck before the break giving the champions a 3-0 lead.
Seren Watkins added number four in the 52nd minute before Mikayla Cook added the fifth. Shannon Greenway got a goal for Ponty, but it was only a consolation.
After the game Pontypridd manager James Fishlock stepped down from his role at the club. In a statement, Fishlock said: “I feel I’ve just not been good enough for the players or the club this season.”
Aberystwyth Town 1-2 Wrexham
Above: Aberystwyth Town celebrate Amy Jenkins’ goal that put them in front against Wrexham. Photo: Steve Williams Photography.
Two unfortunate goals conceded ended Aberystwyth Town Women’s unbeaten start to the season at the hands of Wrexham at Park Avenue on Sunday.
In front of a sizeable crowd – as well as the TV cameras for the documentary Welcome to Wrexham, captain Amy Jenkins put the hosts ahead within the opening six minutes.
But defensive slip-ups cost the Seasiders, with Rosie Hughes and Rebecca Pritchard capitalising and leaving Wrexham in front at the break – a lead they maintained throughout the second half.
Manager Gavin Allen was disappointed but not disheartened. “We’ve got a young side, and they’ll learn,” he said afterwards. “What’s important now is how we respond. We’ve had a great start to the season, and we will now look to bounce straight back.”
Adran North
Above: Llandudno’s Stevie Donougher (right) celebrates a goal earlier in the season. Photo: Nick Mesney/FAW.
Just two matches went ahead in the North with Airbus UKBroughton picking up their first win of the season. Lucie White’s goal just after the hour mark enough for the win over NFA which moved Airbus into fourth spot.
Llandudno jumped ahead of Connah’s Quay Nomads in the table on goal difference after a 5-0 win away at CPDM Bangor. A strong first half saw Llandudno score four with Rebecca Jarvis-Evans, Ffion Owen, Stacy Tradewell, and Stevie Donougher getting the goals. Jasmin Dutton added a fifth in the second half.
Adran South
With leaders Briton Ferry’s game against Llanelli postponed due to a waterlogged pitch Cascade and Swansea University had the chance to regain some ground. Swansea University missed the chance to go top as they were held to a goalless draw at Caldicot Town.
Pontardawe got their first win as they beat Coed Duon 5-0 thanks to goals from Catryn Cook, Keira Harris, Sara Llewelyn, and two from Renee Day.
Cascade moved into second place after they beat Cwmbran Celtic. Molly Champman gave Cascade the lead, but Fiona Anthony levelled early in the second half. Chapman got the winner for Cascade in the 78th minute.
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Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarises the fifth round of the 2023-2024 D1 Arkema season and continues his Matildas Watch! (24/10/23).
Above: Clare Hunt (15) in action for Paris St. Germain at Lille at the weekend. Photo: L. Pastel/PSG.
Montpellier 1-1 Fleury
In an opening quarter where the ball went back and forth a lot, the first true opportunity was in the twelfth minute for Montpellier with a Sh’nia Gordan kept out at the corner by Chloé N’Gazi. N’Gazi would also keep out a Marion Torrent shot on 34 minutes, but not before Marie Levasseur showed her skills in preventing Fleury scoring on 28 minutes.
Levasseur’s good performance continued into the second half, especially with another great defensive tackle on the hour, and some dangerous runs in attack. Both keepers were kept very busy in a second half with many chances but, unfortunately for Montpellier, who deserved to win, there was a late penalty for Fleury for a foul by Charlotte Bilbaut on Batcheba Louis. Marine Dafeur converted it to equalise deep in injury time. Scorer for Montpellier: Robert (52’). Scorer for Fleury: Dafeur (90’+5 Penalty).
Lille 0-4 Paris Saint-Germain
Above: Marie-Antoinette Katoto (9) who opened the scoring for Paris St. Germain at Lille. Photo: L.Pestel/PSG.
With 70% of possession, Paris SG easily won this game. Marie-Antoinette Katoto opened the score in the twelfth minute in her first game back as a starter. Scorers for Paris St. Germain: Katoto (12’), Chawinga (25’), Baltimore (45’+1), Vangsgaard (90’+2).
MATILDAS WATCH – Clare Hunt (Paris Saint-Germain) Hunt played in PSG’s winning side, making several crucial interventions.
Saint-Etienne 1-2 Le Havre
Above: Nadjma Ali Nadjim (19), Le Havre, celebrating her goal with her family and friends. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
A predictable win for Le Havre who were a lot stronger in the second half even if the game was equal in the first. It was Saint-Etienne who opened the score at the end of the first quarter. In second half, the good coaching of Le Havre’s Romain Djoubri, smartly used his bench with the entrance of Inès Benyahia and Zoé Stiévenart and of Chancelle Effa Effa at the hour. They made the difference against a tiring Saint-Etienne side. It was worth noting the good performance of Nadjma Ali Nadjim with both a goal (69’) and an assist for Chancelle Effa Effa (76’). Scorers for Saint-Etienne: Browne (15’). Scorers for Le Havre: Ali Nadjim (69’), Effa Effa (76’).
Guingamp 1-0 Bordeaux
A very even match game in which Aïssata Traoré made a decisive pass to Leïla Peneau, who scored from 25 meters with a great shot, for the only goal of the match before receiving a red card. Scorers for Guingamp: Peneau (62’).
Dijon 0-6 Paris FC
Above: Daphne Corboz (8, white shirt), Paris FC, celebrating one of the 6 goals with her teammates. Photo: Paris FC website.
Dijon could do nothing to prevent Paris FC opening the scoring early – in the fifth minute,They had a few opportunities but lacked potency and on a mess in front of the goal, Daphne Corboz collected the ball and put it in the nets for Paris’s second on the half hour. Dijon almost scored at the end of first half but Chiamaka Nnadozie, Paris FC goalkeeper, made a great save, deviating a shot under the crossbar in the corner. Daphne Corboz (who played only for forty five minutes) and Gaëtane Thiney have both one goal and an assist for Paris FC. Scorers for Paris FC: Bourdieu (5’), Corboz (30’), Thiney (36’), Dufour (38’), Le Mouël (54’), Ribadeira (79’).
MATILDAS WATCH – Sarah Hunter (Paris FC) For the second time this week, Sarah Hunter was in the group for the game against Dijon. This time, entering at halftime, she played the whole second half as right sided midfielder. Hunter made a good performance for her first time on the pitch with her new teammates.
Reims 1-5 Olympique Lyonnais
Above: Alice Sombath (18) celebrating her goal for Olympique Lyonnais at Reims. Photo: Damien LG / Olympique Lyonnais
Sonia Bompastor, Lyon’s coach, let Ellie Carpenter (Australia) and Christiane Endler (Chile) depart the team earlier this week to join their national squads, thus missing the trip to Reims. Wendie Renard was on the bench as she was slightly injured last game. Reims squad started with a 5-4-1 which became two lines of five players while defending; “double bus” as we say in France. As expected, Lyon dominated the game from the start. Melchie Dumornay struck the post from twenty-five metres out in the fourteenth minute before Kinga Szemil saved from Lindsey Horan a few minutes later. Alice Sombath did finally open the scoring with a shot from distance in the twentieth minute – her first goal in D1 Arkema.
On a counterattack on 28 minutes, Reims equalised through Rofiat Imuran as she pushed in a ball cleared to her feet by Laura Benkarth. Just before halftime, Lyon took the lead back through Eugénie Le Sommer who scored with a header after a perfect cross by Selma Bacha. Three minutes later, Dumornay scored from another cross – this time from Kadidiatou Diani. Later, a great one-two between Lindsey Horan and Ada Hegerberg set up Horan to score with a cross-shot on 87 minutes. This was a very one-sided encounter with almost 70% of possession for Lyon during the whole game. Scorers for Reims: Imuran (28’). Scorers for Lyon: Sombath (20’), Le Sommer (43’), Dumornay (45’+1), Horan (87’), Majri (90’).
Above: Saint-Etienne and Le Havre join together to celebrate the refereeing weekend.Photo:Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
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Impetus’ charity partner John Moriarty Football have announced their plans for Indigenous Football Week 2023, which will celebrate the power of community to create opportunity.
Indigenous Football Week® 2023 will be held from 30th October to 5th November and will unite the football community to recognise the impacts of self-determined Indigenous football programs and ensure they have a sustained place in the game.
Indigenous Football Week (IFW), a John Morairty Football (JMF) initiative, in partnership with A-Leagues and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), will be celebrated across the Liberty A-League Women, the Isuzu UTE A-League Men and as well as in JMF communities and schools across NT, NSW, and Queensland.
As a displaced child of the Stolen Generations, JMF co-founder/co-chair and the first Aboriginal footballer selected for Australia, Yanyuwa man John Moriarty AM found acceptance in the football community. At a time when Australia had not yet enacted the 1967 Referendum to give Aboriginal people citizenship, Australia’s football community warmly welcomed John with his skills, speed, and character.
Above: Miley (foreground) Impetus‘ sponsored JMF scholar. Photo: John Moriarty Football.
At the heart of JMF is li-ngambala wiji, which in John Moriarty’s Yanyuwa language means community. JMF’s pathways from grassroots to elite football begin at the community level, by supporting talented young Indigenous footballers within their own communities to develop their football skills and do well at school.
“We draw on the cultural strengths of our local coaches and community advisory groups, made up of local elders, Traditional Owners and community members. JMF is all about self-determination to address the extreme social disadvantage and barriers to football opportunity that Indigenous players face in many remote and regional communities across Australia,” said Mr Moriarty.
Above: John Moriarty, pictured with Shadeene Evans, JMF’s first female scholar who represented age group Matildas and now plays A-League Women football. Photo: John Moriarty Football.
Prominent Indigenous footballer, former Socceroo, and current A-Leagues Men Perth Glory player, David Williams, will be the 2023 Indigenous Football Week® Patron.
“Being Patron for IFW23 is a huge honour. As one of the few professional Indigenous footballers in Australia, I believe it’s important to be a role model and help create pathways for young Indigenous players, particularly those from the bush. The work John Moriarty Football does is inspirational and I’m proud to be involved,” said Mr Williams.
For the third year, IFW will be run in partnership with A-Leagues. Each A-League match will include a Welcome to Country ceremony, a celebration of Indigenous culture, and the opportunity for fans to celebrate and donate to further the work of JMF.
Australian Professional Leagues Commissioner Nick Garcia commented, “Indigenous Football Week is an important part of the A-Leagues calendar as we celebrate the contribution of First Nations people to the game and reflect on how we can make our game ever more culturally safe and inclusive. We are proud to support the work of the Moriarty Foundation.”
Above: Youngsters enjoying JMF coaching. Photo: John Moriarty Football.
Kathryn Gill, Professional Footballers Australia Co-CEO, said, “JMF is an excellent example of how the most impactful organisations in addressing indigenous issues are indigenous-led. The PFA is delighted to again partner with JMF in support of Indigenous Football Week 2023.”
IFW and JMF are delivered by Moriarty Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that provides successful Indigenous program solutions through resilient local engagement. Its underpinning community-driven framework is based on improved wellbeing and strong protective relationships for the staff, children and families it works with.
JMF’s sister program is Indi Kindi, an early learning program for the under-fives and their families to improve the global readiness of Aboriginal children entering pre-school and school. Indi Footi is a key component of Indi Kindi that activates young brains through movement, and develops basic football and motor skills, balance and coordination in a fun, non-competitive environment.
by Myles Thornton at St. Paul’s Sports Ground for Impetus(23/10/23)
Above: Millwall’s Shay Bennettin action. Photo: Tom West Photography.
Tier fiveMillwall Lionesses brushed past Margate from two divisions beneath them to move into the First Round of the FA Cup.
Both teams came into this third qualifying round tie on the back of big wins in the previous round, with Millwall having beaten Regents Park Rangers 11-0 and Margate Ladies defeating Maidstone United 6-0.
Indeed, Millwall can’t stop scoring at present. They have now recorded an incredible 35 goals since Alex Russell and Adam Rowland took caretaker charge of the team.
With Impetus sponsored Poppy Payne captaining the side, the Lionesses’ first goal yesterday came after 11 minutes, Shannan Drewe delivered a cross from the corner, Liv McGregor rose up high and headed it into the back of the net. The second came only four minutes later, Drewe’s corner deflected off a Margate defender and landed in the back of the net.
Emma Whitter made it three just a minute later, Drewe once again with a cross, and Whitter headed it in. Talking of Drewe, two minutes after the third, she made it four with a fantastic finish, she’s on fire, already getting four goal contributions.
On 19 minutes, Ella Bailey made it five, McGregor cut the ball back to the edge of the area, Bailey tried her luck and it paid off. Grace Laverick made it six on 21 minutes, another pitch-perfect delivery from Drewe found the head of Laverick who got her first goal of the afternoon.
The Lionesses found themselves seven up after 30 minutes, Laverick played through Millwall’s McGregor who did the rest. Ten minutes later, Whitter made it eight from close range. That was it for the first half.
On 57 minutes, there was one negative for Millwall as Laverick suffered a nasty-looking leg injury Tamiyah Lorraine came on to replace her.
McGregor then made it nine with 23 minutes left with a calm finish it into the back of the net. Whitter then made it double digits on 75 minutes. A composed finish from the centre-forward who can’t stop scoring.
Drewe added another just two minutes later, Ellen Napper played it to her and she fired home. Substitute Lorraine then added to the tally with a shot deflected by a Margate defender, and into the back of the net. Napper finished off the scoring from close range.
The Lionesses next welcome Crawley AFC to St. Pauls Sports Ground in the London & SE Premier next Sunday at 1:30pm.
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Above: Joy for AFC Wimbledon at Worthing yesterday. Photo: Emily Topping.
AFC Wimbledon overcame a tough battle at fellow tier four FAWNL Division One South-East side Worthing to progress into the First Round proper of the FA Cup yesterday.
The first chance of the game fell to Worthing, as Becki Bath stood over the free kick, but it was gathered safely by Lauren Allen. The Sussex side tested Allen once more when shot was fired from distance that went flying towards Allen at some pace, but she pulled out an excellent stop to deny the home side the opener.
Half an hour gone, and Ashlee Hincks won a free-kick, around 30 yards from the goal. Her ball evaded the wall and caused all sorts of problems in the box. Worthing keeper Dolbear parried the ball, and it came off the crossbar. But the loose ball was then picked by Emily Donovan, who was there to head it home from close range.
Not long after the Dons got the opener, Worthing had a spell of possession. Bath charged up the field, and her effort flew past Lauren Allen and into the top right corner.
Half-time came at the right time for the Dons as it allowed a re-set, and they came out on the front foot. Ellie Dorey had an excellent chance to put the Dons ahead after Dolbear was caught out of position, last-ditch defending diminished her chance at goal.
Tierney Scott broke through for Worthing until Kelly Highman caught up with her, and put in an excellent tackle to deny the home side their second.
Dorey threatened once more. She retrieved the ball in midfield and pushed her way through a crowd of defenders. One-on-one with the Dolbear, she slotted the ball home beautifully into the bottom right-hand corner to give the Dons the lead once more.
Ellie Dorey was causing all sorts of problems now. She took down the ball wonderfully and played a fantastic first-time cross towards Ashlee Hincks who finished her chance in sensational style to give the visitors a crucial two-goal cushion.
Just as well they did, as with five minutes before the end, Worthing had a lifeline. Despite the Dons’ persistent calls for offside, the flag never came, and Gemma Worsfold slid in to score.
The home side pressured for an equaliser as the clock ticked towards full-time. Lauren Allen produced two stellar saves to protect the Dons’ lead.
It was a great battle between two of tier four’s best teams, but it was AFC Wimbledon who took the spot in the first round of the FA Cup.
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Impetus had photographers at eight games this weekend from tier one down to tier seven in England and Australia. Each of our team select their four favourite images from the games they attended to share with you (23/10/23).
Above: Maya Le Tissier heads clear for Manchester United against Everton at Walton Hall Park yesterday. Photo: Harvey Todd for Impetus.
Chelsea 4-2 Brighton and Hove Albion
from Ben Gilby at Kingsmeadow
Barclays Women’s Super League (Tier One)
Everton 0-5 Manchester United
from Harvey Todd at Walton Hall Park
Barclays Women’s Super League (Tier One)
Western Sydney Wanderers 0-3 Wellington Phoenix
from Kris Goman at CommBank Stadium
Liberty A-League Women (Tier One)
Reading 1-3 Sheffield United
from Andy Wicks at the SCL Stadium
Barclays Championship (Tier Two)
Middlesbrough 0-0 Hull City
(Hull City win 4-2 on penalties)
from Matthew Appleby at Map Group UK Stadium.
FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round
Woodley United 1-1 Aylesford
(Woodley United win 3-1 on penalties)
from Andy Wicks at Scours Lane
FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round
Hastings United 0-0 Bognor Regis Town
from Jon Smalldon at Pilot Field
London & South-East Division One South(Tier Six)
Goring United 3-5 Procision Oxford
from Rob Mellor at Sheepcot Rec
Thames Valley Counties Division One (Tier Seven)
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Perth RedStar head coach Carlos Vega Mena has just guided his side to a second successive NPLW WA league title and Top Four Cup triumph. Under his leadership, the club have only lost a handful of matches as they pursue their quest for excellence. Impetus’ Ben Gilby spoke to Carlos about another successful campaign(23/10/23).
Above: Perth RedStar celebrate their Top Four Cup Final success over Perth SC last month. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
It has been another excellent season for Perth RedStar. After defeat in the Night Series Cup Final and in their opening NPLW WA match, the defending champions rode up through the gears to win more silverware whilst playing a consistent brand of excellent football.
Whilst outsiders may think there was a hint of deja vu about the NPLW WA in 2023 with the same clubs in the top four and the same champions and Top Four Cup winners, the campaign developed into a thrilling set of twists and turns, which ended with RedStar’s outstanding ability to punish their rivals for not taking opportunities once more.
Head coach Carlos Vega Mena knew that after sweeping up all four pieces of silverware in 2022, his team had a major target on their back this year.
“It was always going to be hard to match our success from the 2022 season. There was a lot of doubt within the NPLW community as to whether we could pull it off again, but the squad are always up for a challenge and like to face them head-on, which is exactly what they did this season. What we managed to achieve in 2023 reflects the dedication and commitment from the coaching staff and the squad as a whole.
Above: Perth RedStar head coach Carlos Vega Mena. Photo: Fotoenzo.
“We were thrown a few curve balls with the loss of players for a variety of reasons but were able to work through this as a group. There’s no doubt about it, we had to work hard to secure both the League and Top Four titles. I have to give credit to the squad for being committed to working together and to the new players, and the younger players, for being able to quickly adjust to the playing style and philosophy.
“For the past three years, we have had the same staff structure in place. Michelle and Vernon have been working hard with the squad whilst Mick, Soa, and Dylan have provided the strength and conditioning training. Having Shawn come on board as my Assistant Coach this season was an absolute bonus. She is an invaluable addition to the coaching team. This consistency and commitment from all involved has contributed to our success and I am incredibly proud of the coaching staff and the squad.
“The biggest challenge was maintaining the momentum from 2022 and making the players believe they could do it all over again. It can be hard for players to stay focussed after such a successful season. Having to rebuild after players have left the squad and having to introduce new faces raises its own challenges. Along with ensuring the team continues to play our style of football when you have players missing due to injuries or availability issues, the challenge is to keep the same competitive level on the pitch.
“I am proud of the squad as a whole, but in particular the bench players and the younger players. When you can pull a player off the bench or up from U21s and maintain the same competitiveness, you know that the club is doing something right. The younger players never hesitate to step up when needed and it’s this team spirit that makes me proud.
“The squad’s commitment and dedication to each other, the playing style, and my philosophy are invaluable. Their passion and resilience are an inspiration to the younger players at the club and they are excellent ambassadors of the women’s game.”
Vega Mena touched on the loss of key players going into the new campaign, which led to a reconstruction of the RedStar side ahead of the 2023 season. He outlined how they set about knitting the new squad together.
“We knew going into 2023 that we would need to rebuild after losing Shawn Billam, Larry (Larissa Walsh), Shivani (Battaglia), Grace (Monteiro), Ruby (Cohen), Tessa (De Leo), and Maya (Diederichsen), along with Carla (Bennett) to injury just before the 2023 season started. We were able to recruit some talented players into the NPLW squad and are fortunate to have some emerging talents coming through the ranks that we can draw on. Losing new goalkeeper Zara Board just as the season was starting (to NPLW football in Victoria) was also a blow and we had to pull Maya out of retirement once more.
Above: Larissa Walsh, one of several important players that Perth RedStar lost before the start of the 2023 campaign. Photo: Perth RedStar.
“The emphasis whilst rebuilding the team was training hard and implementing the playing style. Having the right people around you is important, they make the difference. The squad understand that the key to success is teamwork.
New arrivals Reina (Kagami) and Chiori (Ikeda) are a perfect fit with the squad. They are not only good players, but good people. Their football does most of their talking for them, however, we do need to break out the translator app on occasion!
The new league season opened with defeat to a highly talented NTC side in a repeat of last year’s Top Four Cup Final. They were one of a developing number of teams to challenge you this season, albeit none were able to do it on a consistent basis. Vega Mena points to how the development on the league made his team’s job harder this season, and therefore the achievements even more outstanding.
“There was a lot of movement within the clubs and teams this season which saw a spread of talented players across the league. We always enjoy playing teams that play good football, and there seemed to be more focus on playing styles this season. It’s always pleasing to see the younger players get time on the pitch and there were plenty of opportunities for them this season. The competition for a Top Four spot remained tight for the most part which indicates that most of the teams were able to successfully challenge each other on the pitch. This bodes well for women’s football in WA.
RedStar are an exceptionally well-organised side that will always make opponents pay for not taking chances, and that is not something that comes about by coincidence, as Vega Mena outlined to me by detailing his key principles at the club.
“I believe it is important to have players that have the ability to listen, take on board your playing style, and bring it to the pitch on game day. It is a combination of what type of players you have, what message you give them, the style of training, and having players capable of performing it on the pitch.
Above: Carlos Vega Mena pitchside. Photo: Fotoenzo.
“We play an attacking style of football with a high press and always work hard at training. We are committed to this style of football and like to keep intensity both at training and on the pitch. We are fortunate in that we have many talented players who can read the play and know how to work together. Sometimes this appears seamless on the pitch and is a testament to the players’ ability to be aware of each other and their surroundings.
“We also have several players who can score and the team is not reliant on any one player in particular. I always encourage the players to take their chances whenever the opportunity arises. This can work in our favour on the pitch.”
Reina Kagami had an outstanding first season on the pitch whilst having to adapt to a totally different way of life off it having moved to Perth from Japan along with team mate Chiori Ikeda. When I interviewed her two-thirds of the way through the season, she felt she was still playing nowhere near her potential despite putting in consistent high quality performances and scoring regularly from midfield. The RedStar head coach outlined row they rose to the challenges of the NPLW WA.
“Reina and Chiori are very technical players who bring that extra bit of quality to the pitch. They both had to adjust to a more physical game, which I think they have done in remarkable style. They are intelligent players who play a simple, technical style of football. They adapted quickly to our philosophy and showed that they can score, as well as create and assist.
“Chiori is an impressive player. She was troubled by a few niggling injuries this season and missed a few games as a result. Reina really came into her own by the end of the season. She came to us in a more defensive role, however, she is a versatile player who has shown remarkable attacking ability.
“Reina will continue to adjust to Australian football and I have no doubt she will strive to reach her full potential next season. She has already received interest from the A-League over east. Unfortunately, her personal circumstances meant that she could not pursue that pathway at this stage. I look forward to seeing her in action again next season.”
Above: Reina Kagami (left) and Chiori Ikeda – two key members of Perth RedStar’s side this season. Photo: Robbie Anderson.
Perth RedStar won the Top Four Cup this year after two wins over Perth SC that I described as “ruthless”. Whilst Perth’s injury and availability issues were well documented, what may not have been thought about quite so much was the challenge it threw at RedStar – preparing to face a team that would be fielding players out of position and some who have limited experience on that sort of stage which makes preparations less straightforward than when taking on a team full of “known players”.
“Perth SC have some very talented and versatile players. They always manage to put a strong team on the pitch with players that have pace and can be unpredictable. These types of games are where we have to take our chances when they appear and need to stay strong in the back.
“The focus at training is always on working hard, keeping intensity, and playing football to the best of our ability. I don’t believe in basing our sessions on who our opponent is that week, that way we are prepared to face any team that is put on the pitch on game day.
“Perth have always been a challenge for us. It’s tough when you have to play a team seven times in one season and have the ability to beat them each time, or at least draw. In the Top Four Cup, we went out determined to win, and you saw that determination on the pitch.
“It was a privilege and an honour to participate in the inaugural Top Four Cup at the new State Football Centre. The facilities were top notch and the staff worked tirelessly to ensure a good experience for all the participants.
It took us a little while to settle into the game. The first half was tough, which is exactly what we expected. We came out strong in the second and were able to control and dominate possession. We created several opportunities and players didn’t hesitate to take their chances, the goals were quality. The teamwork on the pitch was key in sealing the win. It was a great second half from the team and there’s no denying we earned the title on the day.”
Above: Olivia Wood in action for Perth RedStar in their Top Four Cup Final win over Perth SC last month. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
After another season of success, the target on Perth RedStar’s back will be even bigger next season with rival clubs even more determined to take away more of the club’s silverware. Vega Mena knows this and is ready to combat it with his squad.
“We have had the target on our backs for three years and I’m sure next year will be the same, especially after two successful back-to-back seasons. We are expecting clubs to build teams with beating us in the back of their minds. Everyone wants to be the team that beats the current champions, and they will be looking for that reward. We can definitely feel the target on our backs but this will not be our priority going into 2023.
“What the squad has achieved to date is a massive accomplishment for the club, however, our main focus is always player development and we remain committed to playing quality football. This is essential if we are to maintain the standards we have set as a club. Younger players are the future of football and it is imperative for clubs to have these pathways and opportunities for the players coming up through the ranks.
“Next season will see more movement of coaches and players within the NPLW which will pose new challenges and we could see some new look teams emerge. I look forward to seeing what the teams look like. In 2023, we will be looking to continue to challenge other teams whilst playing our brand of football, one game at a time.”
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Back for the third season, Impetus’ team covering the A-League Women nominate their choices for player, coach, and event of the week. The votes for player and coach are tallied up and then come the end of the campaign we’ll reveal our Player and Coach of the Season once more (23/10/23).
Player of the week:
Above: Brisbane Roar goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz got two votes this week as Player of the Week. Photo: Iowa State University Athletics.
BEN GILBY:Jordan Silkowitz – a sensational goalkeeping display to ensure Sydney FC’s dangerous attack couldn’t find a way back into the game for their side at Ballymore Stadium.
KIERAN YAP:Taren King for a solid defensive display and a goal to deliver Central Coast Mariners their first win since rejoining the league. Adelaide’s attack was on fire in Round One and came into this game confident, but they were well handled by The Mariners, and King was pivotal.
BEN CAREY:Jordan Silkowitz. She made six saves and kept her first-ever clean sheet against one of the strongest teams in league. Her side, Brisbane Roar, could have easily dropped points in the second half but she wouldn’t allow it. A phenomenal performance.
Coach of the Week:
Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Paul Temple. Photo: RNZ News.
BEN GILBY:Alex Epakis. Yes, the Glory are top of the table with two wins from two and no goals conceded, but for me, the most impressive thing is the renewed sense of game management that he has instilled into the Western Australian side. Perth have managed the latter stages of both those wins over Western United and Newcastle Jets in a hugely professional manner. Whilst they are not necessarily firing at full force yet, they are seeing out games in a manner that is significantly above what they have achieved in previous seasons.
KIERAN YAP: Paul Temple. Was this Wellington’s most complete performance? Western Sydney is a work in progress, but The Nix played with clarity of purpose. There will be tougher tests, but you can’t fault a 3-0 win. They scored the most goals of the round and were one of only two teams to keep a clean sheet.
BEN CAREY: Garrath McPherson. Leading his side, Brisbane Roar, to victory over the five-time premiers and four-time champions, Sydney FC, was an incredible achievement.
Event of the week:
Above: Chelsea Blissett (centre) and Brisbane Roar celebrate their goal against Sydney FC. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
BEN GILBY: Brisbane Roar securing victory over Sydney FC. Garrath McPherson’s new look side have started the season with a bang and the travails of the last two seasons, which saw a habit of conceding numerous late goals to lose games that seemed unlosable, seem to be in the distant past.
KIERAN YAP: Chelsea Blissett’s goal. A brilliant curling finish from a player brought in to stop goals. Brisbane’s won this game as a defensive unit, but Blissett’s moment secured the three points.
BEN CAREY: Central Coast Mariners scoring their first win in the A-League Women since 2009 was a momentous occasion for the club that only just rejoined the league.
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Above: Morocco’s International Women’s Team. Photo: 7e News.
Earlier this month, former head coach for Spain’s World Cup winning squad, Jorge Vilda, was appointed as the new manager of Morocco’s women’s national team.
Following their win against England in the FIFA 2023 Women’s World Cup final, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) came under fire after their then-president, Luis Rubiales, grabbed and kissed player Jenni Hermoso without her consent. In the midst of an investigation into the incident, Vilda was sacked.
This was, however, not the first time the attention of the world was brought to the inappropriate behaviour of powerful menwithin the world of football, or the ill-treatment of Spain’s senior players specifically.
Barcelona’s Mapï León and Patricia Guijarro, for example, were among the players who, prior to the tournament, had already boycotted the national team due to concerns regarding conduct towards players. Questions were, and rightly so, being asked about Vilda’s ethics before the World Cup had even begun. The actions of Rubiales only served to confirm that there was a deep-rooted issue which players need to be better protected from.
Morocco made history this year by being the first Arab-country to quality for the World Cup, under coach Reynald Pedros.
It is somewhat disheartening and concerning, then, to see a team and a nation which has made such an important step in their women’s game, choose to employ a manager who has a clearly worrying track-record of complaints when it comes to the running of a team and control over its players. There is also the alarming factor of his role in defending the inexcusable actions of Rubiales, as well as the fact that he is currently under investigation in Spain in relation to this.
Many women around the world, whether they are involved in sport or not, are unfortunately all-too familiar with the experience of Hermoso. A man has abused his position of authority in a way which is detrimental to a woman, who has essentially then had to justify why it was not acceptable and explain how it affected her in order to be taken seriously.
The situation should, and arguably could, have been prevented from occurring in the first place. Spanish players should never have been forced into a situation where it was necessary to boycott their own national team. Jenni Hermoso never should have been assaulted in front of the whole world.
Despite all of this, one of the men at the centre of all the controversy, has kept his place on the international stage. Whilst one team has asked for change, and many others have supported them in doing so, another is now taking a step in the wrong direction. Upon seeing the damage which has been done to the Spanish team, perhaps not in terms of football performance, but certainly in terms of wellbeing and morale, it is astounding that the RFEF have seemingly encouraged the move, and that Morocco have accepted it, whilst global football organisations have, largely, looked on and said nothing.
One must consider whether the Moroccan team has been at all consulted regarding this matter. Is their safety being considered, or is Vilda simply allowed to walk into another job in women’s football, despite the damage done to the last team he managed, and his alleged misconduct?
Some might argue that because Vilda has not been convicted of any criminal charges, he should not lose out on a job opportunity. However, there is an obvious and disturbing pattern which he undoubtedly played a part in, and it is imperative that the concerns of female players are taken seriously, both for the sake of their own welfare, and the safeguarding of a positive, misogyny-free environment throughout women’s football.
The way to foster this is not to provide a part of the problem with a new opportunity, with very little consequences for their actions being proportionately faced by him and those like Rubiales, who were at the forefront of a scandal which overshadowed what should have been a joyous, monumental moment for the Spanish team.
Why has the risk of allowing something similar to happen to the Moroccan team been taken? This does not set a good example at any level, and, maybe most pressingly, it shows a blatant disregard for the experiences of women who have been disrespected and made to feel uncomfortable.
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Report by Elsie Nash, exclusive photography from Ben Gilby at Kingsmeadow(22/10/23).
Above: Chelsea’s Aggie Beevor-Jones reacts after scoring her team’s fourth goal. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Chelsea overcame a stuttering first half which saw them fail to click and fall a goal behind, to hit back to comfortably defeat a stubborn Brighton and Hove Albion side at a packed Kingsmeadow this afternoon.
The champions struggled to find their rhythm in the opening 45 minutes, but, as expected they did dominate the possession and the half chances when they came. The first main chance game when Sophie Ingle escaped from the clutches of her former Blues teammate Maria Thorisdottir to find Sam Kerr. The Australian star motored up the pitch and hit a shot on the angle that was well saved by Sophie Baggaley in the Brighton goal.
Above: Sam Kerr pulls a ball back across goal today. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
The Seagulls made Chelsea pay for their inability to break through in the fourth minute of first-half stoppage time when Katie Robinson’s cross was turned in from close range by German international Pauline Bremer.
Above: Katie Robinson (22) who set up Brighton’s opener. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Chelsea are always a better team with Fran Kirby in it, and after she was fed by Millie Bright and got free to have a shot that came off of the side of the bar. Kerr also had another opportunity when Eve Perisset’s free-kick came her way.
Above: Fran Kirby in possession at Kingsmeadow today. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
The home side levelled four minutes into injury time when Sjoeke Nusken headed home Jess Carter’s cross.
The decisive moment came seven minutes into the second half. Ann-Katrin Berger’s goal kick ended up with Kerr who supplied a pass back to Nusken to sweep home her second.
Above: Chelsea celebrate Sjoeke Nusken’s second goal. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
With just over a quarter of an hour remaining, Chelsea extended their lead with Kerr the supplied once more as she fed Nusken who hit a shot that was diverted into her own net by Guro Bergsvand.
Above: Guro Bergsvand, who put into her own net for Chelsea’s third goal. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Brighton rang the changes with former Sydney FC duo Charlize Rule and Madison Haley coming on. Haley worked hard to make space and fed Robinson to get a shot in on goal.
Above: Former Sydney FC star Charlize Rule made an impressive cameo at Kingsmeadow this afternoon. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Chelsea found a fourth eight minutes from the end as Nusken played in substitute Aggie Beevor-Jones to score.
Above: Sophie Baggaley makes a superb save from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Still the scoring was not finished as Haley was involved in a move that led to Maisie Symonds supplying the pass for Elizabeth Terland to score a late consolation for the Sussex seasiders.
Above: Madison Haley was in the thick of the action after coming on as a substitute. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
Ben Gilby’s photo gallery for Impetus from Kingsmeadow:
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