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Last gasp Ilestedt sneaks win at super Saints

Southampton 1-2 Arsenal

by Beth McCowen at St. Mary’s Stadium for Impetus (24/11/23).

Above: Molly Pike celebrates her goal that put Championship side Southampton ahead over Arsenal last night. Photo: Isabelle Field/Southampton.

Arsenal needed a goal from Amanda Ilestedt two minutes into stoppage time to seal their comeback from a 1-0 deficit to edge out Championship side Southampton in front of a record crowd for the Hampshire coast side, and one of the biggest attendances in the Conti Cup’s history.

Arsenal dominated in the beginning, but the Saints pressed hard and quickly opened up the game, spending a good portion of time both in possession of the ball and in their attacking half.

A free kick soon provided the Saints with a great opportunity, but Arsenal’s Sabrina D’Angelo made a huge save. It was a promising start for the home side.

After almost five minutes of constant action in Arsenal’s defensive half, Arsenal became more composed and saw their first shot at goal, which was sent just wide by Lina Hurtig.

Paige Peake was also a standout for Southampton, making two important clearances as Arsenal began to look closer to opening the score line. Rosie Parnell, captain of the Saints, forced another attempt by the Gunners back out, seemingly finding it easy to keep up with Arsenal’s Frida Maanum. Less than thirty minutes into the match, Steph Catley’s free-kick was successfully headed away by the Saints.

D’Angelo’s bold positioning soon proved effective as Southampton made another attempt to take the lead.

Kayla Rendell made several impressive saves for the hosts, and her distribution of the ball was largely excellent. D’Angelo equally continued to impress, playing a vital role in leading Eidevall’s side from the back throughout the opening half.

**Above:** St. Mary’s celebrated a record-breaking women’s attendance of 13,438. **Photo:** Isabelle Field for Southampton FC.

Soon after the break, Lexi Lloyd-Smith, a half-time substitution for the Saints, saw a huge opening. Messily, Arsenal managed to send this away. However, shortly afterwards, the hosts had better luck. Player of the Match Molly Pike, gave Southampton the lead in the 54th minute. Her clean, confident strike from the edge of the box left D’Angelo with no chance of stopping it. Arsenal’s backline were just not good enough here, and the Saints executed the opportunity brilliantly.

Rendell was put to the test just a few minutes later, saving one effort from the immense counterattack before Maanum’s equalising strike proved unstoppable.

Kathrine Kühl played a crucial role in Arsenal’s midfield, often working her way into attack and sending some lovely passes forward to her striker teammates (despite often finding herself in challenging, tight spaces). Southampton’s defence, though, were efficient in blocking many of these opportunities before they could result in another goal.

Spacey-Cale’s Championship side showed remarkable strength against one of the WSL’s finest, earning a further opportunity which was swiftly headed away by the Gunners’ Noelle Maritz.

Arsenal threatened the home side towards the end, but they often struggled to get past the strong and cohesive defence of the Saints.

However, with five minutes of added time, Arsenal took the lead for the first time this game. Ilestedt provided the game-winner through a header, following a confidently delivered corner.

It was, ultimately, D’Angelo who stopped Southampton from seizing back a point. Arsenal’s goalkeeper made more than one crucial save to stop the Saints from equalising.

There was a buzz about St. Mary’s Stadium. Spacey-Cale’s Southampton could certainly walk away with their heads held high, having delivered a stellar performance against a top WSL team, in front of a record crowd.

**Above:** The home fans in the busy St. Mary’s stands. **Photo:** Isabelle Field for Southampton FC.

After the match, Arsenal boss Jonas Eidevall described Marieanne Spacey-Cale’s team as a “well-coached side.”

Regarding the Gunners’ relatively slow start to the game, the manager admitted that in the first half, his side “connected really poorly off the ball.”

He also detailed that playing with three central defenders means that “one of the central defenders can start either driving the ball forward or making runs.” In light of this, the head coach was full of praise for Amanda Ilestedt, who scored Arsenal’s winning goal.

Touching on the competitiveness of the championship, where Southampton currently sit third, the Arsenal boss said, “When you see clubs like Southampton and how they are trying to grow, I think there is a real big case for saying that, from a quality perspective, the WSL probably can be a larger league than twelve teams.”

**Above:** Southampton’s starting eleven pose for their pre-match photo with mascots. **Photo:** Isabelle Field for Southampton FC.

Southampton manager Marieanne Spacey-Cale declared to the press that she was “absolutely delighted with the players.”

Spacey-Cale explained that although the Saints just missed out on taking the game to penalties, her side’s strong performance was “a big statement”. There was also praise for the team’s “solid defensive display”.

On how her players felt post-match, Spacey-Cale said “I can’t believe they’re disappointed, in a really good way…they feel like they’ve gone toe-to-toe with one of the best teams in Europe, and we’re disappointed to have lost.” Clearly and justifiably pleased with her side’s performance, the head coach said that this response “says a lot about this group of players and the performance that they put in tonight.”

This match saw St. Mary’s with a record crowd of over 13,000, and Southampton’s head coach showed her appreciation for the fans who supported them through what they knew would be a tough encounter.

Teams: SOUTHAMPTON (4-2-3-1): Rendell, Mott, Parnell, Peake, Purfield, Kendall, Griffiths, Morris, Pike, Wilkinson, Dean. Substitutes: Howard, Rafferty, Lloyd-Smith, Peplow, Wynne, Pharoah, Thompson, Kraft, Primus.

Scorers: Pike (55’).

ARSENAL (4-3-3): D’Angelo, Beattie, Catley, Maanum, Wälti, Maritz, Hurtig, Kühl, Russo, Lacasse, Codina. Substitutes: Zinsberger, Ilestedt, McCabe, Cooney-Cross, Foord, Pelova, Mead, Miedema, Lia.

Scorers: Maanum (59’), Ilestedt (90+2’).

Referee: Stacey Pearson.

Attendance: 13,438.

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Eight young players taking the WSL by storm

by Ava-Marianne Elliott (23/11/23)

Above: Arsenal’s Australian midfield maestro Kyra Cooney-Cross. Photo: Mariella Prew for Impetus.

Young players play integral roles in the WSL, and so far, this season we have seen some praiseworthy performances from the next generation of players that are bound to become some of the best in the world.

From North London to Merseyside, WSL sides have been making critical investments in the form of recruiting young players who solidify the future of their club. Alongside seeing managers fill their squads with players who are full of experience across club and international stages, there are certain starlets that have been rising through the ranks, and have this season landed themselves in the competitive WSL. As the league grows we have seen players from 36 different nations make the move to represent WSL clubs, and thriving alongside them English talent from the clubs academy systems.

We have seen performances worthy of high praise and recognition from the younger players that display exactly why they are an asset to have in a match-day squad. In this article, we review eight Women’s Super League players 21 or under who have hit the ground running to start the season off on the right foot, showcasing an array of undeniable talent, skill, and maturity across their efforts on the pitch.

Courtney Nevin

Club: Leicester City.

Age: 21.

**Above:** Matildas defender Courtney Nevin has caught the eye in the WSL. **Photo:** Leicester City Women.

After what was a very successful loan spell last season, Australia’s Courtney Nevin made the permanent move to the WSL to remain with the Leicester City team, transferring from her previous team Hammarby in Sweden’s Damallsvenskan. Nevin’s defensive impact from her position in the back line was a huge part in keeping the Foxes from facing relegation to the Championship, and the improvement of the side this season has begun to shine through.

Despite facing some of the top teams in their first seven fixtures, Nevin has been well up to the task. She is a big presence on the pitch for her team and has put in shift after shift, particularly working well to keep the Manchester United forwards at bay.

Her minutes this season sits at a total of 610, with a total of 42 recoveries made and a passing accuracy of 72.4%. In Leicester’s fixture against Bristol City, the side won by four goals to Bristol City’s two, and Nevin had a wide-scale impact. She created two chances for her team with a 79% passing accuracy, also making 16 passes into the final third to push Leicester’s play forwards.

Khiara Keating

Club: Manchester City.

Age: 19.

**Above:** Manchester City’s Khiara Keating, who has been the club’s first-choice goalkeeper for City. **Photo:** Morganna King for *Impetus*.

At just 19 years old, Keating is Manchester City’s first-choice goalkeeper so far this season, and she has proven so far her ability and what she can bring to her side. Keating is one of City’s players that came up through their academy system, and for such a young player in a role that holds a lot of pressure, she has shown that she is capable of maintaining a calm demeanour when on the pitch.

One of Keating’s most impressive displays in goal this season was against Chelsea, where City went down to nine players after two red cards. With the defensive line in front of her left slightly compromised, she stepped up to help keep her side in the game, and her efforts saw Chelsea being able to grasp just one goal in the last minutes of injury time.

During the seven matches she’s started this season, Keating has kept three clean sheets and conceded just five goals, alongside saving one penalty. Her performances this season haven’t gone unrecognised, as during the October international break, she earned her first senior England call-up from Sarina Wiegman and has again received another for this upcoming December camp.

Mia Enderby

Club: Liverpool.

Age: 18.

**Above:** Liverpool’s Mia Enderby on signing for the club. **Photo:** Liverpool Women.

Mia Enderby at just 18 years old, is one of the youngest players that is taking flight in the WSL. After signing last summer, she has made an appearance in six matches and has bagged one assist in a total of just 126 minutes. The product of Sheffield United’s academy had been on the radar of WSL teams long before her signing to Liverpool with her direct approach and skill in front of goal.

Despite starting just once for the side in the WSL across the fixtures played so far, Enderby scored her first goal for the club against Manchester City during the Continental Cup. The side ended up suffering a tough 3-4 loss, however, their young winger showed excellence when she flicked the ball around defender Steph Houghton, collected the ball back at her feet, and neatly tucked a shot away in the net.

With more opportunities to come for her, she is steadily building up confidence and developing as a player for the Liverpool team, which is in an excellent place for the start of what could be an exciting career.

Grace Clinton

Club: Manchester United (currently on loan to Tottenham Hotspur).

Age: 20.

**Above:** Grace Clinton – thriving on loan in North London. **Photo:** Tottenham Hotspur Women.

Last season, Grace Clinton spent half of her season with her club Manchester United before going out to then Championship side Bristol City, on what was a successful loan spell. Her efforts across the pitch and six-goal contribution helped the side gain promotion to the WSL. After her stellar second half to the season, it was agreed Clinton would spend this season away on another loan spell to continue her development.

Under Robert Vilahamn’s management at Tottenham Hotspur, Clinton is already progressing even further at such a quick pace. This season for Spurs, she has played a total of 567 minutes across seven games, with two goals and one assist in the WSL. Against Everton in match week five, she had an 84% passing accuracy, nine recoveries, won 18 duels, and scored one goal.

Due to her progression and the work she’s put in to better her performances, she flew under the radar of England manager Sarina Wiegman, and the 20-year-old received her first senior call up for her national team for the October camp. Now that the December roster has been released, Clinton has received another well-deserved call-up for her country.

Kyra Cooney-Cross

Club: Arsenal.

Age: 21.

**Above:** Kyra Cooney-Cross (left) with team mate Beth Mead at Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday. **Photo:** Grace Jones for *Impetus*.

A player that Impetus has been hero-ing for the whole of its four-year history, the start of the WSL season saw very limited minutes for Kyra Cooney-Cross after her late deadline day signing, however, her match time has been increasing, and during the time we’ve seen her on the pitch, she has been nothing short of exceptional. As a regular on the Matildas’ squad and regular starter for previous club Hammarby in Sweden’s Damallsvenskan, Cooney-Cross is easing into life in North London whilst simultaneously displaying just how impactful she is as a player.

In Arsenal’s recent WSL fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion, the 21-year-old put on a midfield masterclass. The turnaround from her five-minute debut at the Emirates in the first game of the season to a player of the match-worthy performance this previous Sunday has been outstanding. The fixture was her third start for the Gunners, and with 43 out of 49 passes completed, nine recoveries, and eight duels won, her performance was one that has seen Arsenal fans rave about the midfielder’s value.

There are hopes that she will be a big part of the club’s future, especially considering everything she brings to the team as a younger player who recently experienced a very big change off the pitch. With more Arsenal starts bound to come, there is no doubt we will see even more growth in Cooney-Cross’ football during the 22-23 campaign.

Laura Blindkilde Brown

Club: Aston Villa.

Age: 20.

**Above:** Laura Blindkilde Brown in action for Aston Villa last season. **Photo:** Suvadeep Biswas for *Impetus*.

Laura Blindkilde is not only one of Aston Villa’s regular starters and a reliable force in their midfield, but she is also a product of their academy system. She signed her first professional contract for the club in 2021 after a short spell at Birmingham City and has worked her way up to her place in the Villa team. Recently her performances have been even more promising, and it wouldn’t be surprising that if she continues to keep pushing forward, she will see a lot of interest from bigger teams within the league.

Blindkilde’s talents spread across the range of the midfield, and this season we have mostly seen her in the central midfield area as the playmaker on the pitch. Last season, she played primarily as a right winger when she saw minutes for Villa, but the choice to convert her to a central midfielder has been no mistake. With her attacking qualities and defensive abilities, Blindkilde is incredibly versatile on the field, and it makes her an admirable player to have within a team.

Although young, Blindkilde also holds a strong amount of experience across the international stage. She is currently playing for the England under-23 side; however, she has played for her country at most youth levels, and it has played a big part in her development as a player.

Aggie Beever-Jones

Club: Chelsea

Age: 20.

**Above:** Chelsea’s Aggie Beever-Jones celebrating a goal against Brighton and hove Albion this season. **Photo:** Ben Gilby for *Impetus.*

The future for Chelsea is looking even brighter now that Aggie Beever-Jones has returned to the squad from multiple loan spells across two seasons to continue her personal development. Her start to the season has been nothing short of remarkable in the small total of 126 minutes that she’s seen on the pitch. In the minutes that she’s played, she’s already managed to score four goals in five matches.

Beever-Jones is another testament to one of the WSL academy systems successes, as Chelsea was her childhood team, and she came up through the West London club’s ranks to land the spot she now has on the first team. In her one start this season against Liverpool, within 24 minutes of play she had netted a goal that contributed to her team’s triumphant 5-1 win. Across the 64 minutes that she played in the fixture, she took three shots and had eight touches in the opposition box.

Much like many other young English players, Beever-Jones is likely to be in Sarina Wiegman’s thoughts, but as of now the 20-year-old is making excellent progress in the under 23’s squad. Many are questioning when we will see the young forward appear in the squad, especially since has proven to have an excellent on-pitch linkup with fellow teammate Lauren James.

Kathrine Kühl

Club: Arsenal.

Age: 20.

**Above:** Arsenal’s young Danish international Kathrine Kühl. **Photo:** The Short Fuse.

Kathrine Kühl is one of the young players within the Arsenal side, and she is often to be found in central midfield. She joined the team in the winter transfer window of the 22-23 WSL season amidst the Gunners’ unfortunate injury crisis, and she made a big contribution towards the sides’ successful league finish despite the adversity they faced. At the time of her signing, she was just 19 years old, and already some of her attributes are being compared as similar to those of Arsenal skipper and club legend, Kim Little.

When on the pitch for her side, Kühl is consistently calm under pressure and pulls the strings in midfield. At a top team like Arsenal, there is room for her to grow and develop the skills that she already possesses and utilises effectively even further. She has played very few minutes in the WSL so far this season, but the World Cup in the summer was a tournament that she excelled in for her national team with her passing, defensive cover, and attacking play.

Her international experience and the performances she has put in for the club, particularly last season, see her well deserving of achieving more minutes on the pitch. She is most definitely a big player to watch as the season progresses.

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Welsh Weekend Wrap

by Martin Townley, Impetus Cymru Correspondent (23/11/23).

Above: Katy Hosford celebrates her winning goal for Swansea City against Wrexham in front of a big crowd at the swansea.com Stadium. Photo: FAW.

Swansea City go level on points with Wrexham at the top after 2-1 win at the swansea.com Stadium. Cardiff City win the capital city derby with 3-0 win over Cardiff Met. Connah’s Quay Nomads return to the top of the Adran North, and Cascade take over the Adran South leadership. Briton Ferry Llansawel set up Welsh Cup quarter-final tie with Wrexham.

Adran Premier

Swansea City 2-1 Wrexham

Another fantastic crowd turned out at the club’s men’s venue, the swansea.com Stadium as 3,859 saw Swansea City beat Wrexham 2-1.

Wrexham took the lead as they took advantage of a Swansea mistake at the back. Jess Williams lost the ball allowing Amber Lightfoot to shoot, but Clair Skinner saved, only for Carra Jones to tap into the empty net.

Ellie Lake levelled for the Swans as her shot from 25 yards crept under the dive of Delyth Morgan in goal.

Swansea took the lead after 66 minutes when Nieve Jenkins sent captain Katy Hosford clear in the box to make a calmly taken finish past Morgan. Swansea take a much-needed win as they look to close the gap on league leaders and rivals Cardiff City.

Barry Town United 0-2 Aberystwyth Town

A quickfire Lleucu Mathias double got Aberystwyth Town three points on the road to in-form Barry Town United.

Gavin Allen’s side had lost their three previous matches in the Genero Adran Premier after a great start to the season.

With Impetus-sponsored teenager Modlen Gwynne in the starting squad and Ella Thomas on the bench, Aberystwyth gained an excellent win.

But a thumping 8-0 win away to Rhyl in the Bute Energy Welsh Cup last weekend got them back to winning ways ahead of Sunday’s trip to Jenner Park.

The victory was their first away from home in the league since March – when they beat Barry Town United by the same scoreline.

The day was only marred by a wrist injury in the first half to midfielder Bethan ‘Cheeks’ Roberts, who was treated on the pitch before going straight to hospital.

Cardiff City 3-0 Cardiff Met

**Above:** Cardiff City’s two-goal hero Seren Watkins. **Photo:** Cardiff City.

Cardiff City remain top of the Ardan Premier and unbeaten as they beat cross-city rivals Cardiff Met 3-0.

Mackenzie Olden got the only goal of the first half to give the Bluebirds the lead at halftime.

Seren Watkins added the second shortly after the restart and added a third from the spot in the 89^th minute.

The Bluebirds lead the table by six points from Wrexham and Swansea City who both have 16 points.

Adran North

Connah’s Quay Nomads 5-2 NFA FC

Nomads returned to the top of the Adran North after this win over NFA. A hat trick from Sophie Hodson and goals from Alisha Wright and Melanie Barlow helped Nomads to the win. Jessica Mills and Georgia Williams got on the scoresheet for NFA.

CPD Y Rhyl 1879 3-1 Airbus UK

Rhyl moved up to third in the Adran North as goals from Rebecca Bannister, Laura Williams, and Sade Benjamin helped them to a 3-1 win.

Adran South

Cascade YC 6-0 Llanelli Town

Cascade moved to the top of the Adran South after hammering Llanelli. The six goals all came from different scorers as Ellen Lunn, Lauren Boyd, Phoebe Ware, Melissa James and a penalty from Daisy Evan-Watkins gave them the win. Cascade sit three points ahead of Briton Ferry who have two games in hand.

Swansea Uni 1-2 Cwmbran Celtic

Cwmbran Celtic moved into third spot after this win as Swansea Uni dropped to fourth. Georgia Shwartz and Jade Crofts gave Celtic a two-goal lead, but Angelika Barris pulled one back for Swansea Uni. Cwmbran held on to gain a big away win.

Welsh Cup

Pontardawe Town 1-2 Briton Ferry Llansawel

Briton Ferry made it all the way to last season’s Welsh Cup final but had to fight back from behind against a well-organised and hardworking Pontardawe team. Catryn Cook gave the hosts the lead with a stunning free-kick after 16 minutes. They held the lead until the 44th minute when Lowri Ridings fired home at the far post following Alison Witts’ flick-on.

Pontardawe defended bravely in the second half as Briton Ferry pressed for the winner. The winning goal came in the 84^th minute as super sub-Fleur Jenkins skilfully brought down Lucy Powell’s high ball and fired past Celyn Barnett in goal.

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Young Lionesses: U23 and U19 squads revealed for international window

22/11/23

Above: Chelsea’s in-form Aggie Beever-Jones – one of many stars in the U23 squad announced today. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.

England U23s

Head Coach Emma Coates has selected a 23-player squad for the Young Lionesses’ upcoming fixtures against France and Spain.

England’s U23s are back in action for the final two matches of 2023 and will look to close out the year with their unbeaten status intact.

Emma Coates’ side will first travel away to Paris to face France on Thursday 30 November (15:00 GMT), before welcoming Spain to the Pirelli Stadium, home of Burton Albion, on Monday 4th December (19:00 GMT), with tickets still on sale priced at just £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.

The Young Lionesses go into the final international window of the year in fine form as they remain undefeated in 2023, most recently drawing 1-1 away to Italy and defeating Portugal 2-0 at home. The final away fixture of the year presents a new test for the WU23s who are yet to face France, while the home fixture marks familiar opposition with the age group last facing Spain also in Burton in a 0-0 draw back in February.

England U23’s boss Emma Coates said: “It’s been a really successful year for our WU23 age group. On the pitch, we’ve put in some positive team performances and this season we’ve seen two players move across to the senior squad. Our ultimate objective is to maintain a flow of players ready-made for our senior team. We have an exciting group of players coming through our system; we’re focused on developing them technically and tactically but also helping them grow as people.

“We’re looking forward to our final two fixtures of the year and will be looking to close out the year with two more strong performances. I’d encourage all Lionesses fans to get their tickets for the match in Burton to come and cheer us on and see the next generation of Lionesses.”

The Squad

Goalkeepers: Emily Ramsey (Everton), Kayla Rendell (Southampton), Lucy Thomas (Birmingham City)

Defenders: Brooke Aspin (Bristol City, on loan from Chelsea), Anouk Denton (West Ham), Naomi Layzell (Bristol City), Ella Morris (Southampton), Poppy Pattinson (Brighton & Hove Albion), Mia Ross (Charlton Athletic), Kiera Skeels (Charlton Athletic)

Midfielders: Laura Blindkilde Brown (Aston Villa), Ruby Grant (BK Hacken), Missy Bo Kearns (Liverpool), Lucia Kendall (Southampton), Ruby Mace (Manchester City), Jessica Park (Manchester City), Molly Pike (Southampton), Maisie Symonds (Brighton & Hove Albion)

Forwards: Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea), Freya Gregory (Reading, on loan from Aston Villa), Jessica Naz (Tottenham Hotspur), Katie Robinson (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ebony Salmon (Aston Villa).

England U19s

A 24-strong squad will travel to Portugal for the Algarve Cup tournament tournament over the coming weeks.

The Young Lionesses will close out the year at the tournament with fixtures against the Netherlands, Sweden, and Portugal. All three fixtures will be played on the sunny Algarve coast.

England WU19s will be looking to finish the year strongly as they look ahead to round two of qualification for next summer’s UEFA Women’s Under 19 EURO which will take place in the new year. The Young Lionesses came through round one with flying colours with three victories, scoring nine goals and conceding just once.

The Algarve Cup Schedule:

England v Portugal

Tuesday 28 November

15:00 GMT KO, Estadio Nora, Ferreiras Futebol Clube

England v Sweden

Friday 1 December

15:00 GMT KO, Estadio Municipal de Albufeira

England v Netherlands

Monday 4 December

13:00 GMT KO, Estadio Nora, Ferreiras Futebol Clube

The Squad:

Goalkeepers: Eve Annets (Reading), Katie Cox (Chelsea)

Defenders: Ria Bose (Chelsea), Cerys Brown (Chelsea), Grace Ede (Sunderland), Lois Marley-Paraskevas (Manchester City, dual registered with Burnley), Lucy Newell (Manchester United, dual registered with West Bromwich Albion), Jessica Osborne (Auburn University), Katie Reid (Arsenal, dual registered with Watford), Mari Ward (Bristol City)

Midfielders: Ashanti Akpan (Chelsea), Araya Dennis (Arsenal, dual registered with Crystal Palace), Maddy Earl (Arsenal), Keira Flannery (West Ham), Shauna Guyatt (Crystal Palace), Laila Harbert (Arsenal, dual registered with Watford), Alexia Potter (Chelsea, dual registered with Crystal Palace)

Forwards: Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal, dual registered with Watford), Ava Baker (Leicester City), Mia Enderby (Liverpool), Freya Godfrey (Arsenal, loan to Charlton Athletic), Georgia Mullett (Aston Villa), Poppy Pritchard (Durham), Katy Watson (Sunderland)

The Young Lionesses will close out 2023 at the Algarve Cup, with fixtures against the Netherlands, Sweden and Portugal. All three fixtures will be played on the sunny Algarve coast.

The Algarve Cup Schedule:

England v Portugal

Tuesday 28 November

15:00 GMT KO, Estadio Nora, Ferreiras Futebol Clube

England v Sweden

Friday 1 December

15:00 GMT KO, Estadio Municipal de Albufeira

England v the Netherlands

Monday 4 December

13:00 GMT KO, Estadio Nora, Ferreiras Futebol Clube

The Squad:

Goalkeepers: Eve Annets (Reading), Katie Cox (Chelsea)

Epakis & Jale: We’re making the long trip to bring the points home

by Ben Gilby (22/11/23)

Above: Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis speaking to the media today. Image: Perth Glory.

A-League Women leaders Perth Glory are about to make one of the longest journeys in any of the world’s leagues to fulfil a domestic club fixture as they prepare to face Wellington Phoenix at Auckland’s Mount Smart Stadium this Saturday.

Perth to Auckland is a distance of over 5,300kms (over 3,300 miles). The flight takes at least six and a half hours. If those numbers are not big enough by themselves, throw in a five-hour time difference between the two locations as well.

However, if one team are used to making long journeys for away games, it’s Perth Glory, and head coach Alex Epakis believes his team thrives on it.

“I think as a group we become a lot stronger and more unified when we spend that time together. We travel every second week, for the other teams they come to us once a season. We utilise that time together, to prepare and focus on the match.

“We’re focused on our business in terms of making sure we’re going there to win the points and come back home. If we focus on the journey, the travelling, and the time difference, then we’re thinking on things we don’t need to.”

Glory go into the game having come back from 2-1 down in the fifth minute of stoppage time to keep their unbeaten start to the season alive thanks to Hana Lowry’s equalising goal against Melbourne Victory. Whilst it was the first game this campaign that the Western Australians haven’t won, Epakis took a lot out of the outcome.

“We took a lot away from it – whilst we didn’t walk away with three points, we walked away with a lot of positives that will hold us in good stead for the rest of the season.

“We dominated a large period of the game and had certain opportunities to go two up and we didn’t nail them, but the intent to get more goals after already going ahead is something that, as a group that I’ve really challenged them (to do). Then to have the sucker punch of going behind was going to be a different test.

“Did we have enough in us in the last 10 minutes to find a goal? We did. I had real belief that we would do that…it was a really good learning moment for us and we learned a lot about us as a group in that last 10 minutes. The players believed that they were going to do it. They have that belief that they were not going to lose.”

Saturday’s encounter sees leaders Perth travelling to third place Wellington Phoenix – two teams that don’t traditionally find themselves so close to the leading positions.

“It might not look how it normally looks in the table at the moment, but everyone right now is based on merit and on consistent performances. We want to make sure that where we are now is where we will be at the end of the season,” Epakis enthused.

In terms of availability, the Glory are, overall in good shape, with Epakis reporting just one player, goalkeeper Sally James having a question mark over her, saying “Sally picked up a head knock in the warm-up for the last match and is touch and go.”

In terms of what he expects from the game, Perth’s head coach predicted: “It will be a really structured game. Phoenix have a very clear style of play, they like to build up and there will be a certain focus on keeping the ball and trying to play through the lines.

“For us, we’re quite similar in that regard and we need to manage the transition moments. We need to minimise what they do in those situations and take advantage of what we can do in transition. We know the conditions over there, there’s going to be wind, it’s going to be cold, so we build into that.”

**Above:** Grace Jale, hugely excited to go back to her home city of Auckland to represent her new team. **Image:** Perth Glory.

Grace Jale is one of Perth Glory’s shining lights this season, and the striker spoke of her excitement to return to her home city of Auckland to play for her new club this weekend.

Reflecting on the main differences between Perth and her native New Zealand, Jale laughed: “Ah, it’s hot. Not just a little bit hot, a lot hot! It’s been good. I think coming in, I was a bit nervous…we all just get along off the field, and that translates on the field. We’ve had a good start, and just need to make that gap at the top a bit bigger!”

Maintaining her beaming smile, the attacker outlined why she’s enjoying the season so much so far: “I’m playing striker here which is nice. I’ve been a winger for my other teams. I have more of a striker’s mentality. Scoring the goals isn’t my priority. Winning is my priority. I like assists too, so I’m happy!”

With Auckland’s Mount Smart Stadium staging this Saturday’s game, Jale will be heading to her home city to play for the Glory this weekend, and she’ll have a particularly big cheer squad of family and friends there to roar her and Perth on. “Oh it’s very exciting! They’ve got their tickets!”

The Perth striker was part of Wellington Phoenix’s foundation team in the A-League competition, and Jale takes great pride at their progress since. “I’m happy for them. I started for the A-League with them at the bottom. They have come a long way. They have a lot of young and international players, which is a good one for them.”

Whilst Jale was all smiles when talking to the media, she’ll have her serious game face on when the whistle goes on Saturday – and you wouldn’t bet against her finding the net yet again when she takes on her former side.

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The View From France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarises the eighth round of the 2023-2024 D1 Arkema season. Plus, his MATILDAS WATCH and photos from pitch side at Olympique Lyonnais game (21/11/23).

Above: Alice Pinguet, Dijon’s goalkeeper, in one of her numerous saves. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Olympique Lyonnais 4-1 Dijon

Lyon’s Melchie Dumornay, a World Cup star with Haiti earlier this year, received her trophy for being October’s Player of the Month. It is often said that it is not easy to play a domestic club match between two UWCL games and so it has proved again. Lyon coach, Sonia Bompastor, rested several key players at rest and the team played a full hour without a recognised centre forward. Dijon took advantage by who opening the scoring with a lob by Diaz from 35 meters in the 25th minute.

**Above:** Alice Sombath, Lyon. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

Lyon equalised before the break as Alice Sombath scored from distance, helped by a mistake by Dijon’s goalkeeper, Alice Pinguet, who otherwise had a good game. With a few changes, and the entrance of Ada Hegerberg on the hour, the hosts took control of the game, and Dumornay quickly scored on a cross from Hegerberg to give the lead to her team.

**Above:** Melchie Dumornay, Lyon, white shirt in the centre (6), celebrating her goal with “rabbit ears” expression. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus.*

Sara Däbritz added a sealing third goal just before stoppage time.

Scorers for Lyon: Sombath (34’), Dumornay (70’), Hegerberg (73’), Däbritz (89’). Scorer for Dijon: Diaz (25’).

MATILDAS WATCH – Ellie Carpenter (Olympique Lyonnais) To keep her ready for the UWCL game which will take place on Wednesday, Carpenter did not play in this game.

Le Havre 2-0 Guingamp

This was an important first win for Le Havre this season against a fellow struggler on the ladder.

**Above:** Chancelle Effa Effa, Le Havre, Blue shirt in the centre. Behind of the left, Inès Benyahia (25). **Photo:** Guingamp website.

Scorers for Le Havre: Benyahia (29’ penalty), Davis (44’).

Lille 1-2 Saint-Etienne

Another game between two teams who are fighting near the bottom of the standings. With this win, Saint-Etienne close in on Lille. Scorer for Lille: Roux (2’). Scorers for Saint-Etienne: Browne (57’ penalty), Elmore (72’).

Montpellier 2-1 Reims

Montpellier dominated this game and deserved their win even though the scoreline was close. Scorers for Montpellier: Louis (51’), Ouchène (54’). Scorer for Reims: Imuran (69’).

Paris Saint-Germain 2-1 Fleury

PSG won at home but made it difficult for themselves. The win was secured only by scoring in the very last minute. With this win, PSG regain the third place in the standing.

**Above:** The Paris St. Germain team that took on Fleury with Clare Hunt, centre in the back row. **Photo:** L. Pestel / Paris Saint-Germain.

Scorers for Paris SG: Katoto (13’), Groenen (90’+7). Scorer for Fleury: Kamczyk (40’).

MATILDAS WATCH – Clare Hunt (Paris Saint-Germain) Hunt started in defence for the second time this month in D1 Arkema.

Paris FC 1-0 Bordeaux

Bordeaux played with five players under twenty years of age in this game: Marie-Sergine Ateluce (17), Maïté Mendiburu (15), Hillary Diaz (19), Fiona Maëva Liaigre (18), and Maëlle Seguin (19).

**Above:** Maïté Mendiburu, Bordeaux goalkeeper, 15 years old. Photo: Bordeaux website.

There was a huge opportunity for Paris FC on 30 minutes when the ball hit the post and was saved twice on the line by Bordeaux. This was followed by another great save by Liaigre on her goal line ten minutes later, keeping out a shot from Daphne Corboz. At last, on forty-one minutes, Paris FC confirmed their domination, (they had more than 70% of ball possession) by scoring through Clara Matéo from a pass from Louise Fleury. We had to wait until the 81st minute to see Bordeaux’s first of only three shots of the match. Scorer for Paris FC: Matéo (41’).

MATILDAS WATCH – Sarah Hunter (Paris FC) Hunter was in the matchday squad and entered the game at halftime in midfield.

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Norfolk Weekend Wrap

by Darrell Allen (21/11/23).

Above: Ellie Smith (yellow) scored for Norwich City in their 1-1 draw at Worthing on Sunday. Photo: Norwich City Women FC.

FA Women’s National League Division One South East

Norwich City and Worthing shared the points in a 1-1 draw on the south coast. Chloe Winchester had given Worthing a half-time lead before Ellie Smith equalised for the visitors in the second half.

Eastern Region Premier Division

Norfolk’s two tier five sides, Wroxham and King’s Lynn Town faced off at Trafford Park on Sunday with hosts Wroxham running out 6-0 winners thanks to braces from Luci Middleton and Hannah Fuller and a goal each from Ella Gambell and Rebecca Russell.

Eastern Region Division One North

Mulbarton Wanderers‘ Norfolk derby against Thetford Town, as well as Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers‘ scheduled trip to Biggleswade United were both postponed due to waterlogged pitches.

**Above:** King’s Lynn Town’s goalkeeper gathers the ball as part of an impressive performance that saw her voted opposition player of the match by Wroxham in the Norfolk Derby on Sunday despite being on the losing side 6-0. **Photo:** Stuart Cobb.

Norfolk Women’s Cup Second Round

The University of East Anglia (UEA) were 5-1 winners over King’s Lynn Soccer Club. Natasha Harvey scored two, with Hannah Thompson, Neha Mann, and Evie Bloom also on target for UEA. Chloe Edwards found the net for King’s Lynn Soccer Club.

Sprowston beat Long Stratton 2-0 with goals from Kelsi Adams and Mollie O’Callaghan. Stalham Town won 3-1 away at Bure Valley. Emma Gillespie two and Amber Mayhew one, with Emma Macmillan scoring for the hosts.

FC Viking Valkyries beat Great Yarmouth 4-3 on the road. Their goals were two from Tilly Thrower, a penalty from Cerys Nicholas, and one from Ellie Jarmy. Lacey Andrews scored a brace for Great Yarmouth with Courteney Beare scoring their third goal.

The day’s other two ties that should have seen Caister host Aylsham and Costessey Sports welcome South Walsham Lingwood were both postponed and awarded as home walkovers.

Suffolk Women’s Cup Second Round

Two Norfolk Women and Girls League sides were in action with Beccles Town Development losing 14-0 at Needham Market. Lucy Loombs scored five, Lina Nagib scored a hat-trick, Emma Drake and Paige Wakefield got two each, with Amber Cantwell and Hayley Kindred getting the other two goals. The game between Bungay Town and Woodbridge Town was abandoned.

**Above:** Needham Market celebrate a goal in their 14-0 win over Beccles Town on Sunday. Photo: Ben Pooley.

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two

Shrublands were 10-1 winners over Horsford Hurricanes thanks to four goals from Hannah Halfnight, a hat-trick from Ellie Fewkes-Woodrow, along with further goals from Rachel Adams, Amy Durdin, and Neneh Jeffery. Alice Godden scored Horsford’s only goal of the day.

Norfolk Women and Girls League Sevens Division One

Dussindale and Hellesdon were 5-0 winners at Horsford thanks to Helen Finn and Eniko Kadar (two each) and Alice Walker scoring.

Left Field beat Taverham 5-2 winners. Their goals came from Brogan O’Grady (two) and one each for Rosa Davies-Jones, Meadhbh Flynn, and Sophie Grosse. Kiera Braithwaite scored both goals for Taverham.

Rockland United were 3-0 winners at Loddon United thanks to a brace from Rebecca Humphreys and an own goal.

Mulbarton Wanderers were 12-0 winners over Waveney thanks to five goals from Alice Ladbrooke, four from Lou Rout, a goal each from Joanne Hooper and Eloise Peek plus an own goal.

**Above:** Rachel Cossey, who was player of the match for Wroxham in their 6-0 win vs King’s Lynn Town on Sunday. Photo: Wroxham Women FC.

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Blayney unveils Young Matildas squad for China test

23/11/23

Above: Georgia Cassidy (purple shirt), so impressive in her first A-League season, has received a Young Matildas call-up. Photo: Getty Images, supplied to Impetus by: Perth Glory FC.

Young Matildas head coach Leah Blayney has named a 24-player squad as The Young Matildas continue their preparations for the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup when they face fellow qualifiers, China, in a two-match international series later early next month.

China will host Australia’s U-20 Women’s National Team in Xiamen on Sunday 3rd December and Wednesday 6th December at the Auxiliary Field of Xiamen Egret Stadium.

The fixtures form a crucial part of Head Coach Leah Blayney’s groundwork for the side as they aim to qualify for the 2024 U-20 Women’s World Cup Colombia with a top-four finish at the continental championships.

Blayney has selected a 24-player squad for the tour laden with A-League Women’s talent as reward for strong performances in the opening five rounds of the 2023/2024 season.

Among those selected are Georgia Cassidy and Grace Johnston who have both been in outstanding form for Perth Glory in their first-ever campaigns at A-League Women level, coming straight out of the Hyundai NTC squad in the NPLW WA.

Also in the squad are Daniela Galic who has been impressive for Melbourne City so far, Melbourne Victory’s Jessika Nash, Sydney FC’s excellent Dos Santos sisters Indiana and Jynaya as well as the Newcastle Jets pair Lara Gooch and Claudia Cicco.

**Above:** Indiana Dos Santos (right) – the young Sydney FC star has been called up by Leah Blayney. **Photo:** A-League Women.

“It has been an exciting start to the 2023/24 A-League Women’s season, and we have already witnessed an impressive level of technical skill, tactical awareness, physicality, and commitment to continuous development from youth players all across the league,” Blayney said.

“This squad has been selected to reflect and recognise those showings and ongoing performances within our recent national team environments.

“For a number of the players, it has been a little while since they have been with the national team group, so getting up to speed with the primary goal. For those who were a part of the qualification campaign, it is yet another chance to continue laying the platform for 2024,” Blayney concluded.

Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, said: “The tour of China is a significant opportunity for the CommBank Young Matildas to continue to build towards a key tournament in next year’s AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup.”

“It builds upon our concerted approach to provide high-quality match minutes for the next generation of footballers and, as former AFC U-20 champions, China is one such nation that will provide invaluable international experience for the players.

China qualified for the eight nation AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup after finishing Group B winners in round two and is a six-time FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup participant.

Young Matildas Squad:

Alexia	APOSTOLAKIS	Defender	Western Sydney Wanderers FC / Football NSW
Milly	BOUGHTON	Forward	Tottenham Hotspurs FC / Football NSW
Georgia	CASSIDY	Midfielder	Perth Glory FC / Football West
Claudia	CICCO	Forward	Newcastle Jets FC / Football NSW
Indiana	DOS SANTOS	Midfielder	Sydney FC / Football NSW
Jynaya	DOS SANTOS	Forward	Sydney FC / Football NSW
Tahlia	FRANCO	Goalkeeper	Sydney FC / Football NSW
Daniela	GALIC	Midfielder	Melbourne City FC / Football NSW
Lara	GOOCH	Forward	Newcastle Jets FC / Northern NSW Football
Sasha	GROVE	Forward	Canberra United FC / Capital Football
Milan	HAMMOND	Forward	Newcastle Jets FC / Northern NSW Football
Shay	HOLLMAN	Midfielder	Sydney FC / Football NSW
Kahli	JOHNSON	Forward	Western United FC / Football NSW
Grace	JOHNSTON	Defender	Perth Glory FC / Football West
Zoe	KARIPIDIS	Defender	Newcastle Jets FC / Northern NSW Football
Zara	KRUGER	Midfielder	Sydney FC / Football Queensland
Chloe	LINCOLN	Goalkeeper	Canberra United FC / Football NSW
Maya	LOBO	Defender	Central Coast Mariners FC / Football NSW
Alana	MURPHY	Midfielder	Melbourne Victory FC / Football Victoria
Jessika	NASH	Defender	Melbourne Victory FC / Football NSW
Ella	O’GRADY	Forward	Melbourne Victory FC / Football Queensland
Avaani	PRAKASH	Midfielder	Western United FC / Football NSW
Naomi	THOMAS-CHINNAMA	Defender	Melbourne City FC / Football Victoria
Peta	TRIMIS	Forward	Central Coast Mariners FC / Football NSW

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Last gasp Daly devastates West Ham

West Ham United 2-3 Aston Villa

by Beth McCowen at the Chigwell Construction Stadium for Impetus (20/11/23).

Above: Anna Patten (arm raised) celebrates Aston Villa’s opening goal with Rachel Corsie (6). Photo: Aston Villa Women.

Rachel Daly’s strike in stoppage time at the end of the game secured Aston Villa’s second successive win against a fellow WSL struggler.

Carla Ward and Rehanne Skinner’s sides were both equally desperate for some points going into this clash. They each sit low in the WSL table as of late, and this pivotal result means West Ham drop down to 11^th, whilst Villa have finally clawed their way up to ninth.

The match was fast-paced from the first touch, with the Hammers producing the better opportunities to begin with as Riko Ueki, looked lively and Sarah Mayling was also called upon to make an important block to clear a chance from Kirsty Smith for West Ham.

As the game progressed, despite their strong presence, the visitors were being put under pressure. The Irons’ number two, Kirsty Smith, made an excellent run into the box, sending the defender the wrong way. She was then brought down, which resulted in a penalty. This was calmly executed by Viviane Asseyi, giving West Ham the lead.

The Hammers continued to look dangerous after this, but Aston Villa held their own. Ward’s side suddenly came to life at the half-an-hour mark. They appeared to have learned from their defensive errors against Chelsea, and it must be noted that having both Hanson and Dali back on the pitch only serves to improve their performances.

The 30^th minute saw Villa with a corner-induced equalizer, secured through an impressive header by Patten.

West Ham’s backline appeared to struggle after this setback, but their fan-favourite captain and goalkeeper, Mackenzie Arnold, did a superb job at stopping Villa from expanding on their current position. However, her opposite number, Daphne van Domselaar made a very important save in stoppage time at the end of the first half.

**Above:** Rachel Daly (right) and Kenza Dali acclaim Aston Villa’s victory. **Photo:** Aston Villa Women.

The second half saw Villa looking threatening, but once again West Ham’s Arnold proved why she is one of the world’s best at present. The Matildas star was not only making important saves and passing well under pressure but commanding her defenders in a strategically effective way.

Villa earned themselves a brilliant goal in the 49^th minute from their number 24, Adriana Leon. There was chaos in the box in the build-up, but her great strike left Arnold with no chance.

Rachel Daly delivered a masterclass in footwork during the second half, impressively keeping the ball in possession, and knowing exactly when to bring it back out and look for a new opportunity.

With just over 10 minutes remaining, an outstanding goal from Lisa Evans saw West Ham put themselves back in the game.

Villa’s defence tightened up again after this. Tensions were rising, and Arnold made another great save to stop Ward’s side from regaining their lead.

Then, two minutes into stoppage time at the end, Daly delivered a top-quality strike. Villa’s number nine also played a vital role in their defence during the latter stages of the match, clearing a ball from the goal line to preserve her side’s lead.

West Ham immediately countered, but their accuracy was not quite good enough to secure a goal. The final corner of the game was for the Irons, with virtually everyone in the box but no no avail. Right before the final whistle, van Domselaar made another vital save. This match saw some impressive play from both sides in all areas of the pitch, but particularly from the two goalkeepers.

In the end, Aston Villa narrowly managed to take away all three points. Both sides gave a performance to be proud of. This was an important victory for Aston Villa, and a frustrating loss for Skinner’s West Ham United.

Teams: WEST HAM UNITED (5-3-2): Arnold, Smith, Shimizu, Stringer, Tysiak, Ueki, Harries, Filis, Asseyi, Cooke, Cissoko. Substitutes: Walsh, Evans, Atkinson, Ziu, Denton, Stapleton, Ademiluyi, Flannery.

Scorers: Asseyi (27’), Evans (80’).

ASTON VILLA (4-3-3): van Domselaar, Mayling, Patten, Turner, Pacheco, Dali, Corsie, Blindkilde Brown, Leon, Daly, Hanson. Substitutes: Staniforth, Lehmann, Nobbs, McLoughlin, Salmon, Mullett, Leat, Magill.

Scorers: Patten (31’), Leon (50’), Daly (90+2).

Referee: Keith Stroud.

Attendance: 1,406.

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A-League Women Weekly Awards

Impetus’ team of contributors covering the competition unveil their choices as player, coach, and event of the week. The votes are tallied up across the season and totals revealed just before Finals as we crown our Player and Coach of the Season (20/11/23)

Player of the week:

**Above:** Two votes for Holly McNamara this week as the Australian football family keeps everything crossed that injury news isn’t as severe as feared. **Photo:** Football Australia.

BEN GILBY: Whilst we await confirmation of what could be another devastating long-term injury, Holly McNamara deserves recognition for another fine performance, capped by two goals for Melbourne City at Newcastle Jets.

KIERAN YAP: Emily van Egmond looked a class above. She scored one, set up another, and dominated against Melbourne City’s midfield for most of the game.

BEN CAREY: Holly McNamara. Another sensational performance pulled City out of a big hole against the Jets. McNamara not only scored the equalising goal to bring City back from a 1-2 deficit against the Jets, but she scored the game-winning goal in stoppage time as well. Hopefully, her injury is only short-term, and not another dreaded ACL.

Coach of the week:

BEN GILBY: Still unbeaten, still top of the table – but this week Alex Epakis‘ Perth Glory had to do it the hard way. After missing a golden opportunity to go 2-0 up against Melbourne Victory with 15 minutes left, the Western Australian side found themselves 2-1 behind deep into stoppage time. Yet such is the belief and determination that Epakis has instilled into his young team, they kept plugging away and Hana Lowry was on the end of a sensational team move to seal the equaliser at the death.

KIERAN YAP: Emily Husband. A good win for the Mariners and a very organised performance by her team against the in-form Wellington Phoenix.

BEN CAREY: Emily Husband. Leading her team, Central Coast Mariners, to a statement win over the in-form Wellington Phoenix was impressive. The Mariners now sit in fifth spot on the ladder. Extraordinary for her first season in charge.

Event of the week:

**Above:** Hana Lowry (8), centre, celebrates her late, late leveller with Perth Glory team mates. **Photo:** Rob Lizzi for *Impetus*.

BEN GILBY: Hana Lowry’s late leveller for Perth Glory against Melbourne Victory. A superb team move involving Grace Johnston, Quinley Quezada, and Susan Phonsongkham, who found the local star with a sumptuous cushioned side-footed pass.

KIERAN YAP: Hana Lowry’s late equaliser for Perth Glory was a moment of composure and class. The three points looked headed home with Melbourne Victory until Lowry scored her second of the game. She’s gone up another level this season and is taking responsibility for games instead of just contributing.

BEN CAREY: Hana Lowry’s sensational equaliser against Melbourne Victory late into stoppage time.

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