Goals on either side of the half for Melbourne Victory have led them to their sixth win in a row, defeating Canberra United 2-0 at AAMI Park in round 8 of the Liberty A-League Women.
Victory came out looking to make a statement, launching multiple attacks on Canberra, eventually breaking United down through American forward McKenzie Wienert, who found her third goal of the season, assisted by Jamilla Rankin.
Melbourne had the game all but handed to them when Canberra goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln was shown a red card early into the second half after a challenge outside the box brought Victory’s Rachel Lowe to ground.
The card saw United take off Mary Stanic-Floody in midfield to send in their second goalkeeper Coco Majstorovic into goal for her second appearance for the club.
Only minutes later would Majstorovic make the same mistake Lincoln had, only this time the striker in Kurea Okino, would be able to play around her, leaving her with an open goal to play the ball into.
Okino has now scored three goals in three games for Melbourne Victory, a very positive sign for her form, as she spent last year in the Victorian NPLW scoring 31 goals in 21 games for the Boroondara Eagles.
With nothing more to lose and everything to try and gain, Canberra looked to throw everything and the kitchen sink at Victory in the final 10 minutes of the game, subbing out their defender Cannon Clough for young striker Ruby Nathan.
United were unable to find their way onto the score sheet, but ultimately their defensive performance was one to be proud of, with both of their keepers making 6 saves each, denying Victory the opportunity to really run away with the game.
Round nine will see Victory return to AAMI Park to take on cross town rivals Melbourne City in the Christmas Derby, while Canberra will host Central Coast Mariners at their home ground of McKellar Park.
Above: Adelaide United’s Mariah Lee. Photo: Adelaide United
Adelaide United have their first win of not only this A-League Women’s season but since Round 17 of the last one with a great come-from-behind 2-1 win against Wellington Phoenix at Marden Sports Complex.
Within the first 10 minutes of the match, it was an even encounter in terms of the chances that had been made between the two sides but Wellington significantly had more possession of the ball with 73.1%.
In the 12thminute, Wellington had an amazing opportunity to have opened the scoring thanks to a great through ball by Michaela Foster that found Mariana Speckmaier. She made a great run into the box and was one one-on-one with Annalee Grove but Speckmaier’s shot ricocheted off the post.
Wellington didn’t have to wait long to find the opener as nine minutes later, Macey Fraser provided a great through ball for Emma Main whose eventual run into the box saw her slot the ball past Grove for her second goal of the season.
With a half-hour played, Adelaide looked good at times within attack as they made chances but weren’t able to capitalise on them due to how well the Phoenix defended, Rebecca Lake in particular really proved to make a difference within the backline.
Furthermore, Adelaide came out of the half fortunate to have conceded just once as the sheer number of close chances Wellington created could have been a very different scoreline
Wellington, on the other hand, would have been very pleased and satisfied with how they played in the first half but at the same time have built a really commanding lead going into the second half.
Early after the break , both teams had made chances in attack but nothing necessarily threatened to go in within the first 15 minutes of the half.
In the 75th minute, Chelsie Dawber made a great run with the ball towards the box but was denied by Wellington’s Rylee Foster which brought her out from goal. Adelaide seized upon the moment with Emily Condon as her shot went into the back of the net for United’s equaliser .
Ten minutes later, from an Adelaide free kick, Nanako Sasaki’s shot towards goal went over Foster and converted from the set-piece as United took the lead, something that wouldn’t have been entirely expected when looking at how the first half transpired.
If Adelaide’s first goal wasn’t frustrating for Wellington to have conceded, then United’s second goal definitely would have been knowing how well they had played and the chances created in the match but simply didn’t convert more of their opportunities in front of goal.
Teams: Adelaide United (4-5-1): Grove, E. Hodgson, Waldus, Tonkin, I. Hodgson, Blake, Jancevski, Sasaki, Holmes, Dawber, Lee. Substitutes: Jenkins, Bowler, Condon, Holtz, Morgan.
Scorers: Condon 75’, Sasaki 85’.
Wellington Phoenix (4-2-3-1): R. Foster, M. Foster, Lake, Taylor, Davidson, Fraser, Longo, Barry, Elliott, Main, Speckmaier. Substitutes: Edwards, McMeeken, Whinham, Breslin, Robertson.
Scorers: Main 21’
Referee: Rebecca Durcau.
Attendance: TBC.
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Impetus had writers in five WSL media conferences this week ahead of another vital weekend of action. Their club-by-club reports of who said what is below(15/12/23).
Arsenal
Above: Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall at this afternoon’s media conference. Photo: Beth McCowen for Impetus.
by Beth McCowen
Arsenal are full of fight and ready for the North London derby tomorrow for the second time in three days having met with rival club Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday in the Conti Cup.
The thrilling mid-week clash between the two teams finished 3-3, with Arsenal snatching an extra point through a penalty shootout victory.
Gunners boss Jonas Eidevall’s assessment of Tottenham is that their manager Robert Vilahamn has “changed the way they have been playing” for the better, and “they have a very clear identity.” Reflecting on the short turnaround between the two matches, Eidevall said: “both teams learn from when they play each other” and “it’s like a longer half-time break.”
In terms of team news, captain Kim Little is the only doubt for Saturday’s game. Eidevall said there is currently a “question mark” over the midfielder following a knock sustained during the Chelsea match last Sunday.
In relation to the big occasion of the North London derby, the head coach maintained that “we prep the same way for every game” and the attitude is always that “the next game is the most important game.”
Questioned on whether he has concerns regarding Katie McCabe’s disciplinary record and reputation, Eidevall made it clear that “I don’t think referees have missed many opportunities to try and caution Katie.” He said of the Chelsea game that there were “a lot of situations defined by small margins.” The manager also declared that if the Women’s Super League had VAR, there would be “so many potential stoppages.” He appeared to praise the way the game flowed, saying this “is a nice way to experience a high-level football.”
On summer signing Alessia Russo, Eidevall praised the forward’s work both on and off the ball and highlighted the importance of relationship-building in football. He went on to explain that the team need to work to allow her to get on the ball in front of goal more frequently.
Against Spurs on Wednesday, Vivianne Miedema made her first start following her ACL injury. The head coach said it was “really nice seeing her able to start a football match” and described her performance as “good.”
When asked about Beth Mead’s impactful return also from an ACL injury, the Gunners’ boss stated, “you will never be the same player again, but hopefully for the better of it.” He was full of praise for the “accumulation of a lot of hard work” which has gotten Mead to this point.
Star of the Matildas, Kyra Cooney-Cross, has been a recent standout for the club. The head coach described her Player of the Month award as“well-deserved”, adding that the midfielder is “developing her defensive play” along with her many other good qualities.
Regarding squad depth, Eidevall confessed that he is already having difficulties with both team and squad selections, but he said, “That’s how it should be”, describing it as a “nice problem” to have. He elaborated that the team is in a “much better and stronger place” than last season.
Declining to comment on individuals regarding the upcoming transfer window, Eidevall declared that “the squad is not permanent, and I can see us both having players in and out in January.”
Aston Villa
Above: Aston Villa head coach Carla Ward on her Zoom media conference ahead of the weekend’s game with Brighton and Hove Albion. Image: Aston Villa.
By Emily Brown
After Aston Villa’s midweek win in the Conti-Cup, which saw the side beat Durham 5-1 at home, they look towards the weekend to turn things around once again in the WSL.
Villa will take on Melissa Phillips’ Brighton and Hove Albion this Sunday at Bescot Stadium and look to improve their home performance record and gain their first win at home in the WSL this season.
Although Brighton is a place above Villa on the table in ninth place, when the two teams last battled in the WSL, Villa’s midfielder Jordan Nobbs scored a hattrick against the Seagulls which led to Villa winning 6-2 with goals also from Kirsty Hanson, Rachel Daly and Lucy Staniforth.
Both teams have only won two out of nine matches as it stands so far this season, the only difference in points coming from Brighton’s two draws with Manchester United and Leicester City putting them two points above Villa.
Big news came from the West-Midlands side today with the club revealing they have been forced to make an emergency loan for a goalkeeper ahead of the weekend. After a heavy collision with Villa’s centre-back Anna Patten in the final stages against Manchester City last weekend, first-choice goalkeeper, Daphne van Domselaar, will sit out this Sunday with a concussion.
In other news, once again Villa seem to be struck down with multiple injuries with question marks surrounding the availability of Alisha Lehmann and Dan Turner. Turner being of course the unlikely source of Villa’s only goal against City last week, scoring a powerful strike from inside the box.
On both likely absentees, Ward explained: “Lehmann is still a doubt, she came back from international break with a knee injury which we’ve been managing and not sure if she’ll make it into the squad or not, same with Dan Turner. She’s been struggling after City with a niggle.”
Another to add to the list of Villa’s injured is young striker Georgia Mullett who signed her first professional contract with the club at the beginning of the season. The 18-year-old has had “a bit of an accident” and is “suffering with whiplash.”
Hope surrounds the availability of Mullett as well as Simone Magill who is still returning from injury with her minutes being managed along with Lucy Parker who made her return last weekend after recovering from an ankle injury.
Despite this, Villa looks forward to their match against Brighton as an opportunity to move up the table and take maximum points before Christmas:
“I think that’s the message very loud and clear, we have to go and win the game, it’s a must-win… it’s a game that we have to be focused for, be prepared for and I think it’s an opportunity to… jump above them in the league and finish the first half of the season a little bit stronger than the start of it.”
On Brighton’s performances so far, Ward stated: “They’ve got quality, they’ve shown that. I think they’ve had some really good performances and some they’ll be disappointed in, a little bit like ourselves and I think both teams will want to finish on a high and that’s why I think it’s going to be a very very interesting game but one that I have no doubt that both teams will go out there all guns blazing.”
Everton
Above: Everton head coach Brian Sørensen speaking to the media. Photo: Everton Women.
by Jamie Spangher
Everton boss Brian Sørensen believes that his injury-hit side are more than capable of earning points from this Sunday’s tough test against Manchester City at Walton Hall Park.
Despite left depleted by missing players, Everton have managed to pick up successive victories in the Barclays Women’s Super League in recent weeks. This Sunday they come up against a formidable opponent in Manchester City. Everton boss Sørensen spoke about what he expects to see from Gareth Taylor’s side.
“Manchester City are an unbelievable team and squad that I think they have there. I think they’ve been playing really good so, with the amount of players we don’t have available it’s going to be a tough ask but we will do everything in our power to get the team ready and then put in our performance.”
The Sky Blues have seen a resurgence in form since their consecutive league defeats to Brighton and Hove Albion and Arsenal. Now, the Cityzens are out to make it four wins in a row heading into the Christmas break.
Sørensen measured up his upcoming Mancunian opponents, saying: “They’re good, we know how good they are. But, we also played them three times (two during pre-season, and once in the Continental Cup) and we’ve only been losing by one goal, so we’ll take that in and know that on the day we can make a game out of it and that’s our hope to try to do that.”
Injury blows continue for the Toffees with Sørensen confirming: “We have seven, potentially eight we have to assess one today, key players out and that’s a lot.”
Australian midfielder Clare Wheeler has found herself floating between roles for Sørensen’s side, the 25-year-old midfielder often aiding the Blues in the wing-back position this season so far. The Everton manager spoke highly of Wheeler, highlighting the importance of having such a versatile presence amongst the squad.
“She will deliver, she will do her job and she is competitive. As a player I just love to have her in the squad because she is so versatile, she can basically play everywhere and she will put her body on the line and do the job.”
Sørensen added, “She’s been tremendous and hopefully we get players back soon after Christmas and she can go in and perform as she’s best, which I think is in the middle of the pitch but she fills a really good role for us at the minute.”
Leicester City
Above: Leicester City head coach Willie Kirk recognises the importance of this weekend’s WSL clash with struggling West Ham United. Photo: Leicester City.
By Beth McCowen
Following a 3-1 defeat against Manchester United in the Conti Cup on Thursday evening, Willie Kirk’s Leicester City remain hopeful heading into their WSL fixture against Rehanne Skinner’s West Ham United.
Although the team missed out on points in their cup game, they did stop one Marc Skinner’s team from keeping a clean sheet. The Leicester boss explained that the Foxes “Never managed to get a foothold on the game”, describing a “lack of fluidity” in his team’s performance and how this was partly caused by the change in formation based on available personnel.
The head coach emphasised that the team are currently struggling due to the number of unavailable players, saying they are “stretched” but that he was glad everyone got through this match safely.
The manager also said regarding Leicester’s Conti Cup journey, “We want to progress, and we’ve got a real chance if we beat Everton.”
Crucially, CJ Bott is currently out with a calf injury, and Kirk confirmed that she will not be featuring this weekend. He said the squad will remain the same as Thursday’s, with the addition of Aimee Palmer, who will make her return following a suspension.
Reflecting on the team’s turbulent season thus far, Kirk did not shy away from saying “We’ve got what we deserve” in terms of the nine points they have accumulated. However, he also persisted that “We’ll be better in the second half of the season,” and discussed the importance of building a solid foundation to work on after the break. He pointed out that they have “three key areas to work on.”
The manager also alluded to January being an “exciting time”, considering the transfer window as well as Shannon O’Brien’s eagerly awaited return from injury. Additionally, Kirk spoke highly of new signing Saori Takarada, saying he intends to continue to “strengthen the squad.”
On the atmosphere within the team, Kirk admitted that his players are “frustrated” but stated, “that’s a good thing because if we win on Sunday, we’ll be at a point that we are comfortable with.”
The Leicester head coach appeared optimistic that his side could still finish in the top half of the table before Christmas if they put on a good performance against West Ham United. He expressed the importance of securing all three points against Skinner’s side. Ahead of this game, Kirk affirmed that “we look at performance metrics rather than results.”
Touching on the fast-approaching Christmas break, Kirk said: “the squad needs a break.” It has been a difficult period for the Foxes, partly due to injuries. The head coach detailed “we started the season with four wingers and three of them were injured.”
Liverpool
Above: Liverpool assistant manager Amber Whiteley, who took today’s media conference in the absence of head coach Matt Beard. Photo: Liverpool FC.
By Ava Marianne Elliott
Liverpool are filled with confidence and ready to face the challenge against Marc Skinner’s Manchester United this Sunday.
Whilst head coach Matt Beard was unavailable for today’s conference, assistant manager Amber Whiteley spoke to the media to preview their WSL fixture and reassured the gathered media that Beard is expected back to be at the touchline on Sunday.
Following the team’s Continental Cup win against Everton in an action-packed Merseyside derby on Wednesday night, there were many positives to take away from both team and individual performances. With Leanne Kiernan being back better than ever in action for the Reds and Lucy Parry’s excellent performance, making decisions on the starting lineup is becoming an increasingly difficult task for the coaching team.
Now the Christmas break is approaching, Whiteley was pleased with how the team have rallied together so far this season, and a win on Sunday could see them go level with United on points. With the WSL being such a competitive league, the Liverpool side have adjusted well to the demand and are pleased with the progress they are seeing now both on and off the pitch.
Despite the fact the winter break could see a swift snap in the momentum built, Whiteley highlighted how important the balance is for the squad and they will “come back refreshed and ready to go” in January against Bristol City.
The fixtures that the team plays against United are never a small matter, and although the rivalry between them is younger, the match still holds a fierce amount of competition. Whiteley gave credit to United’s control of the possession and the goal- threat they can impose; however, Liverpool are ready to give them a difficult time.
Heading into Sunday, they’re expecting a tough test, but the squad as a whole are looking forward to hopefully putting on a good display to make the match a memorable one.
Regarding selection and the shape of the team, everybody is available minus Niamh Fahey, who is still a question due to being managed on a day-to-day basis due to a slightly tight calf. Jasmine Matthews is making good progress, and her current recovery timeline means she is expected to be back after Christmas.
Playing a full 90 on Wednesday night, Keirnan is back and looking sharp again after a serious ankle injury that left her sidelined for a prolonged period of time. The Reds assistant boss praised the forward for the resilience and bravery she showed to make her way back to the pitch, commenting how her direct approach in the final third and ability to go shoulder to shoulder has been missed.
Another player that will be a huge asset for the Reds in Sunday’s game is Sophie Haug, who despite having to work through an injury after her signing, has been in flying form so far. Her all-around capabilities on the field and intelligent movement in front of goal, including her ability to be a massive aerial threat, have helped to set Liverpool on the right path so far this season.
Although the 6-0 loss last season to United was a difficult one to stomach, it was by no means an accurate reflection of the capabilities and qualities the Merseyside team possess. The disappointment from last year has made the side even more determined to put it right on Sunday by causing an upset to the home side in Manchester.
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Above: Leticia McKenna in action for Melbourne City at Central Coast Mariners today. Photo: Melbourne City.
A superb strike from Rebekah Stott 12 minutes from the end of regular time earned Melbourne City a point at Central Coast.
A power outage at Central Coast Stadium saw the evening’s fixture subject to a half-hour delay. Both sides entered the clash with poised aggression. Melbourne City have commenced the Liberty A-League season with impressive trot, occupying the second spot on the league table prior to this evening’s kick-off. Central Coast Mariners would need to be well disciplined heading into the fixture in order to manage the threat of this City side.
City looked to test the Mariners’ last line, earning four corners in the opening eight minutes of play. Though the abundance of crosses placed from Rhianna Pollicina remained unanswered, as goalkeeper Lysianne Proulx dictated her Mariners side with authority inside the area.
The opening fifteen minutes saw Melbourne City controlling the tempo of the game, dictating 75% of possession with authoritative composure.
An opportunity arose for City when Hannah Wilkinson accelerated inside the area, though the pass was unable to match the endeavour as her cross was intercepted by Isabel Gomez. The Mariners midfielder was fouled by a tracking Laura Hughes, awarded the free-kick inside of the area and able to evade the danger.
A first opportunity for the hosts arose when a blunder at the back saw Taylor Otto’s deflection strike the woodwork, a tracking Leia Varley able to save the day for City and see the ball away. Just moments later the Mariners found a way to get a further shot off on target, as a helter-skelter attack saw Wurigumula slide in an attempt on goal, only to be denied by Proulx.
City saw the opportunity to pull ahead in the final ten minutes of the opening term in Gosford, though Pollicina’s strike was denied the advantage by the width of the crossbar.
Another brilliant save by Proulx denied the Mariners once again, the Canadian goalkeeper able to block the strike of an advancing Bianca Galic. Despite the action-packed opening term, neither side could break the deadlock heading into the break.
The home side immediately made their presence known following the interval, as Jazmin Wardlow broke down the left side to find Wurigumula inside the area, however. the Mariners striker lacked conviction, as her shot failed to trouble anyone.
The deadlock was broken when the quality of Gomez superbly broke City’s last line to find an advancing Rola Badawiya in on goal. A one-touch shot from Badawiya saw the ball find the back of the net, her second goal of the season providing Central Coast the advantage in the 52nd minute of play.
Trouble continued for Melbourne City, as a scramble inside the Central Coast area nearly saw the Mariners double their advantage. Though a double save from Proulx saw Stott finish clearing the job, the Mariners denied their second.
City aggressively looked to find the equaliser as the clock ran into the final minutes of the fixture. Wilkinson’s squaring ball picked out Pollicina in a prime scoring position, but an excellent display of goalkeeping from Sarah Langman saw City unable to revive the deficit.
Only a few minutes had elapsed since Pollicina’s attempt on goal and Melbourne City found the equaliser through a driving attempt by Stott. A left-footed strike from just outside the area floated expertly into the top corner, providing City the equaliser in what is the defender’s first goal since March 2020.
A spectacular strike from @stotty_13! 🚀👏@MelbourneCity's skipper hits a stunner from range to draw her side level!
Melbourne City pushed strongly for a winner in the closing minutes, with Emina Ekic’s bottom-corner finish ruled out by the assistant referee’s offside flag raised. Neither side was able to clinch a winner before the final whistle was blown.
Above: Melbourne Victory coach Jeff Hopkins. Photo Melbourne Victory.
Competition is heating up for places at Melbourne Victory, and coach Jeff Hopkins says that the players have challenged themselves to be at their best for longer periods and put teams away when they have the chance.
“We are a very, very good side. And we need to start proving it and start proving it not just for parts of games, Hopkins told the media.
“We’re capable of dominating games, dominating teams, and killing teams off, and we haven’t done that yet.
“That’s the challenge for us this weekend, can we get on top of Canberra? And when we get on top of them, can we really get on top and kill them off and really take the game to another level and not let them back in? Give them a sniff? So that’s kind of our aim this weekend.”
Hopkins was talking about the upcoming match against Canberra United but also reflecting on last week’s 2-2 draw with Wellington Phoenix.
“I thought we were quite wasteful with a number of balls into the box and a number of chances,” he said.
“We could have put ourselves in a much more comfortable position than we did.
“The consistency of our performance has got to be better. At times we were as bad as we were as good.
“I’m confident that we’ll put in a really good display on the weekend, and I’m looking forward to the game.”
That confidence stems in part from the quality at his disposal and the growing chemistry among his new signings. Striker Kurea Okino has scored in her last two games while Mackenzie Weinert has consistently been one of Victory’s most lively attackers.
Hopkins said that both players needed to improve on parts of their game, and highlighted the language barrier that Okino has needed to work around, but believes the best is yet to come from his attack.
There is a sense that Victory view the hard fought draw with Wellington as two points lost. Hopkins said that after the match the senior players in the team were eager to push Victory to reach their potential.
He mentioned Kayla Morrison, Emma Checker, Elise Kellond Knight and Lydia Williams as those who spoke up to encourage the team to play to their full capabilities. But the highest praise was reserved for injured striker Emily Gielnik.
The Matildas attacker remained in Melbourne last weekend nursing a calf injury but spent time watching the reserve and youth development players train and play.
Gielnik also attended a meeting of Victory’s youngsters to provide feedback and advice. Although she is unable to play this week and unlikely to the next, Gielnik is still a big presence in training and helping the team prepare.
“We’ve got some real good knowledge of the game and is really important that we use that,” Hopkins said of his senior core.
“I’m leaning on those players a fair bit and they’re more than willing to participate.”
In team news, Emma Checker is likely to return to the starting lineup, where her experience will be valuable against the likes of Michelle Heyman and Vesna Milivojevic. Grand Final winning captain Lia Privitelli is also in the frame to return to the pitch.
With the exception of Gielnik, Victory are looking close to full strength which poses a welcome problem for Jeff Hopkins but it is that depth and quality that has him excited about this season. He acknowledged that there are a number of sides that can challenge for honours this season, with Melbourne City being particularly impressive, but backs his players to deliver against any of them.
“On our day I think we’re as good if not better than most teams in the league.”
“Talk is cheap, we’ve got to start proving things.”
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Impetus’Ryan Miller Woods, Ben Gilby, and Jamie Spangher report on four media conferences from A-League Women’s clubs ahead of round eight (14/12/23).
Adelaide United
by Jamie Spangher
Above: Miley Grigg (centre) in training with Adelaide United FC. Photo: Adelaide United FC.
“This is actually happening.” At 15 years and 54 days old, Miley Grigg became the youngest player to debut for Adelaide United across both the men’s and women’s game. The last week has been a whirlwind for Grigg, the 15 year-old having only put pen to paper in Adelaide just last week.
Grigg spoke on her historic week, describing to the media just how it all panned out. “Crazy week, I definitely didn’t expect it, it all happened so quickly. I was training and then afterwards got an email saying that I’m signed and then a couple days later said that I might be benching or on the emergency list. Then, the emails came out and I was on the emergency list, then I got moved to be playing on the bench and I couldn’t believe it.”
If signing her first professional contract only to be included in the matchday squad just days later wasn’t achievement enough, Adelaide United manager Adrian Senta told Grigg to lace up in last Saturday’s clash with Western United.
Grigg said, “It took a while for it to click in, that I was where I was. Then when Michele said to me that I’m going on in ten to fifteen minutes it was like, this is actually happening.”
“Sents (Adrian Senta) just told me he wanted 20-25 minutes of just all the energy I have and just to press when I can and go and go.”
Above: Miley Grigg making her debut in the Liberty A-League. Photo: Adelaide United FC
2023 has been a catalyst year in Grigg’s career, having also made her first squad selection for the Junior Matildas, proving that she is one to watch. Having been described as an endurant box-to-box midfielder, it comes as no surprise that Grigg has made her professional breakthrough at only 15. Grigg spoke on what her hopes are going forward with Adelaide United as she progresses throughout this season.
She said, “Hopefully just keep training well, doing what I can to hopefully get on the bench more but it just depends.”
In what has been a remarkable week for Miley Grigg, it can be said with confidence that this is definitely just the beginning for the young midfielder.
Canberra United
Above: Canberra United head coach Njegosh Popovich addressing the media ahead of his clash with Melbourne Victory. Image: Canberra United.
by Ryan Miller-Woods
The media heard from Canberra United head coach Njegosh Popovich and recently announced signing Sarah Clark ahead of United’s upcoming match against Melbourne Victory on Saturday.
Canberra will hope the signing of Clark, a defender from North Courage in the NWSL, can shore up the backline with her experience and help the club prevent the number of goals conceded out on the pitch.
When asked more about her, Popovich said, “Sarah comes to us at a very good time. She’s a player that defensively adds a lot of value to us as well but in saying that, she has the ability to go forward and look for a longer pass.”
Canberra had their best performance of the season last round against Brisbane Roar where star player and the most in-form player in the league Vesna Milivojevic put on a masterclass that included a hat-trick, as well as leading the A-League Women’s Golden Boot come the end of the round with eight goals.
Unfortunately, her afternoon came to an abrupt halt in the 75th minute when she was clutching her knee which many people at the time suspected might have been another ACL injury to a player in the league.
When asked about news on her, Popovich provided the best possible update, “Vesna will be travelling with the squad. She’s been cleared from the MRI of any ACL damage which is fantastic, ligaments are all intact. I think it’s just more a case of bone bruising. She’s trained well today.”
Given how Canberra went against the Roar, it’ll provide them with confidence against Victory knowing what they’re capable of with an all-around performance.
When asked what he expects from Victory, Popovich said, “Melbourne Victory are one of the top performers in this country. For us, it’s not going to be an easy challenge, they (Victory) have a few Matildas on their books as well but we just take it one week at a time and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
As for new signing Clark, she’s an important signing for Canberra in terms of their aspirations for finals. If she and the defence can instantaneously click together, that’ll significantly bode well for United as goal differential could be the difference between making the finals or just missing out.
Above: New signing Sarah Clark speaking to the media. Image: Canberra United.
When asked how she has felt she’s slotted in at Canberra so far, Clark said, “Pretty good! I think this team is really welcoming and Gosh (Popovich) said that he really values a family aspect in his team and I can definitely see that here. All the girls are super nice and willing to answer any questions that I have. So it’s been a super easy transition so far.”
Clark’s arrival to Australia joins a very long list of 100+ Americans who have come to the country to play in the A-League Women, which in many cases has allowed players not only consistent game time, but vast opportunities to hone their craft, and most importantly showcase their talent to a wider audience.
When asked about what stood out to her with the opportunity to play in Australia, Clark said, “Obviously, coming to Australia (which is) so far from home but (a) great opportunity for an awesome experience and the A-League (Women) has a really great reputation, a lot of Americans come here in the off-season to play because they know that it’s good quality. So, I was excited when the opportunity came up.”
Central Coast Mariners
by Ryan Miller-Woods
Above: Central Coast Mariners head coach Emily Husband speaking to the media. Image: Central Coast Mariners.
The Mariners will be looking to bounce back against Melbourne City tomorrow night after last week’s 3-0 defeat against Western Sydney Wanderers.
When asked how she was feeling ahead of the match itself, head coach Emily Husband said, “Coming off the back of the Western Sydney Wanderers’ result, obviously we had a fair bit to get back on the pitch and work on but at the same time, every single game is a new game and it’s another challenge and we’re 100% ready for this challenge.”
When asked what she is expecting from City, Husband said, “Everyone knows that they’re a quality side, they play some really good football. So, no doubt they’re going to be a threat, it’s up to us to make sure that we come in disciplined, to do our job, to work hard, and get the result.”
Despite the defeat against the Wanderers, one player who had a very respectable debut in the A-League Women was midfielder Tess Quilligan who will be looking to continue from where she had left off in tomorrow night’s match.
Above: Midfielder Tess Quilligan sharing her thoughts with the media ahead of their match against Melbourne City. Image: Central Coast Mariners.
Reflecting on her debut, Quilligan said: “I think I did pretty well. (There is) definitely stuff that I can improve on but it was my first game and it’s a good start for me.”
From this season’s Central Coast squad, Quilligan as well as Annabel Martin, Bianca Galic, and Taren King came from Sydney University in the NPLW NSW and were also coached by Emily Husband during the most recent season.
When asked how she has felt transiting into the A-League Women with a familiar face like Husband being the Head Coach, Quilligan said, “It was good that she (Husband) was with me at Uni (Sydney University), so I kind of knew how she would like to play and I guess (that) it makes it easier for me to come into the team.”
Perth Glory
by Ben Gilby
Above: Perth Glory boss Alex Epakis speaking to the media ahead of Sunday’s big game at home to Sydney FC. Image: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis goes into Sunday’s huge encounter with Sydney FC with a fully fit squad, and one which is riding the crest of a wave after winning at Melbourne City in the battle of the A-League Women’s top two last weekend.
Reflecting on last week’s performance and result, the Glory boss said: “We had to acknowledge what we did well in that performance and how important that result was for us, as it’s huge. When you go away to Melbourne City and you play the way we did that’s a huge confidence boost, and for the players who contributed to that. It’s a performance we can hold in high regard, and it’s going to really set the platform for what I want us to achieve in the coming weeks.”
The result was achieved despite Perth having less possession and far fewer attempts on goal – plus a number of regular starters missing due to a mixture of coming back from international duty and, in the case of Claudia Mihocic, a concussion protocol. Once more, the strength in depth that the Western Australian side have this season was underlined, along with the team ethic and spirit.
“There were three or four players who didn’t start who were the spine in key positions in all the matches leading up to that fixture against City, and all the players who came in did a sensational job and contributed to the performance and to the outcome. The internal competition is strong. I have to make these decisions (about team selection this week) and make these assessments, (but) I have clarity.
“The squad is very aware that we have strength in depth and it has been a key part of our success. We have great players here who are all contributing to a common goal. They respect that and we make decisions based on what it is for that weekend, but everyone is open-minded to putting their best foot forward to contribute.”
Sunday’s home game with reigning A-League Women premiers Sydney FC presents another major test. The Harbour City side also boasts a five-match winning streak against the Glory. Yet Epakis believes that, despite the experience in the Sydney side and their capabilities, this season Perth are more than capable of getting a result against Ante Juric’s side.
“It’s another opportunity for us to play against a big team and a successful team and we are ready to compete with anyone. We are aware that if we play and perform at our level, then we give ourselves every opportunity to get a result. We are aware of what their strengths are, they have some Matildas in that team, and past Matildas, future Matildas. We are coming up against a very good squad and a very well-coached team. We need to make sure we’re performing at our level, at the level of our last game.
“This run of games that we’re in, stretching back to (Melbourne) Victory, (Wellington) Phoenix, (Melbourne) City, then Sydney, and Western (United), I knew we’d really see what type of group we are, what character we have, what resilience we have, what quality we have, and I think we’re starting to see that we are a serious outfit our selves and we can beat the best. That internal belief is really strong.”
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Four Impetus writers, Tara Murray, Ava-Marianne Elliott, Ben Gilby, and Elsie Nash identify and profile some of the best players aged 22 or under in the Championship this season(13/12/23).
Tara Bourne
Age: 20.
Club: Sheffield United.
Above: Sheffield United’s Tara Bourne. Photo: Sheffield United Women.
by Tara Murray
Throughout the last three seasons, Tara Bourne has played her way through the Championship at Sheffield United, Blackburn Rovers, and Birmingham City while on loan from Manchester United. After a successful campaign last season at the West Midlands side where the Blues finished in second place, just one point below champions Bristol City, Bourne signed for Sheffield United in August 2023.
Bourne’s impact in the backline has been notable this season as she has become a regular starter for the Blades. So far this season Bourne has made nine starts, 10 appearances, and played a total of 820 minutes, with her presence as a strong and dynamic defender making her a valuable addition to the side. A notable moment from Bourne this season was her goal from Jodie Hutton’s corner in the Conti Cup against Sunderland.
Additionally, Bourne’s positive performances for Sheffield United this season led to an England call-up for the Under-23 age group in October where she made her first and walked away with a clean sheet. This successful international performance highlights her strength as a player not only within the realms of the Championship but that she also has the ability to shine alongside the best in England, solidifying her status as one of the brightest young players in the game.
Freya Godfrey
Club: Charlton Athletic (on loan from Arsenal).
Age: 18.
Above: Freya Godfrey (red shirt) battling away for Charlton Athletic against Sheffield Untied. Photovia: Freya Godfrey on X.
by Tara Murray
Since age 12, Freya Godfrey has been climbing the ranks of the Arsenal youth system and impressing at every step of the way. A powerful attacking midfielder Godfrey scored 13 goals in just 18 appearances in the WSL Academy League before making four senior appearances for Arsenal. Godfrey spent the 2022/23 season on dual registration at Arsenal and Ipswich Town in the FAWNL where she had a number of impressive performances culminating in her scoring the only goal for Ipswich Town against Oxford United in their last match of the 2022/23 season.
Over the summer Godfrey signed her first professional contract for Arsenal and then a season-long loan for Charlton Athletic. And this seems to have been the right move for the young player as, since the beginning of the season, Godfrey has built momentum, developing, and maturing as a player.
So far Godfrey has made 10 total appearances for the Addicks including her first start for the side in a 1-0 Conti Cup victory against Birmingham City. Despite only playing 284 minutes for Charlton so far this season Godfrey has already made two assists demonstrating her profound impact on the pitch. Additionally, Godfrey has made three appearances for the England Under-19s this season. Her ability and potential as a player is clear, and we can expect to see more quality performances from her throughout the season.
Molly Pike
Club: Southampton
Age: 22.
Above: Molly Pike celebrates her goal for Southampton against Arsenal in the Conti Cup. Photo: Southampton FC.
by Ava-Marianne Elliott
At 22 years old, Molly Pike is chalking up to be a real threat to any opposition. A dynamic and forward presence in Southampton’s midfield, Pike signed to the club in the summer after leaving previous club Leicester City for a new challenge this 23-24 season.
Despite the fact she sits within the younger bracket of players currently taking flight in the Championship, Pike is no stranger to big competition. Her experience across four different England youth teams, including captaining the under-19’s side, boasts a confidence on the international stage alongside her years of club experience spent with WSL sides.
This season, Pike has been a consistent appearance-maker for the Saints and a rock in their midfield. Her efforts for her side so far this season have been crucial in helping the team into their current spot fighting that sees them fighting for promotion. It’s also worthy to note that alongside her four Championship goals this season, Pike scored the opening goal in the Continental Cup tie against Arsenal in front of a record-breaking crowd at St. Mary’s Stadium.
Katie Reid
Club: Watford (dual-registration with Arsenal).
Age: 17.
Above: Watford’s on loan teenage star Katie Reid. Photo: Watford FC Women.
by Ava-Marianne Elliott
Katie Reid, despite appearing just six times in the Championship so far this season, has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with in defence. Last season, Reid was brought into to the Arsenal first-team bench to provide reinforcement after injury crisis struck the squad, and this season we have seen her break out in the Championship on dual- signing agreement to Watford.
Alongside her club experience and time in the Arsenal youth teams, Reid’s international experience is a huge contribution to her abilities on the pitch in the Championship. She has represented England at three different youth levels so far, with her most recent time being spent with the under 19’s team. Throughout the under-17’s Euros tournament this previous May, Reid made four appearances and scored a header in the semi-finals.
With 494 minutes played so far this season for Watford, Reid is quickly and surely developing further as a player. The minutes she has spent on the pitch have seen Reid display exactly what she is capable of for such a young player, and as her career progresses, she is a player to keep eyes on moving forward to see where her defensive talents take her.
Lexi Potter
Club: Crystal Palace (on loan from Chelsea).
Age: 17.
Above: Young star Lexi Potter, who is in sensational form for Crystal Palace this season. Photo: Crystal Palace.
by Ben Gilby
Epsom-born Lexi Potter is a supremely gifted midfielder with the confidence to shoot from distance to score rocket shots as well as an outstanding vision to bring her teammates into the play.
Potter has been at Chelsea since the age of eight where she was a key member of the side that won the U16 FA Youth Cup and FA Women’s Academy Cup. On loan this season at Palace, the midfielder has been a revelation. Her close control, rapid pace, and adventurous attitude in taking on and beating opponents make her a joy to watch.
The midfielder has also made her mark at international level. Part of the England U19 squad during this month’s window, Potter captained the England U17 side that reached the final of European Championships earlier this year.
Polly Doran
Age: 22.
Club: Crystal Palace.
Above: Polly Doran (left) winning a defensive battle for Crystal Palace against Lewes this season. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.
by Ben Gilby
The Australian defender is now in her second season at Palace and has already established herself as a favourite with the fans in the same way she did at her previous club Melbourne Victory.
Doran is a hard worker as well as an elegant and extremely capable defender. Starting out in the third tier of the women’s game in the state of Victoria, the 22-year-old began moving up the pyramid to top tier Calder United who have a record of developing outstanding female footballers. Doran hit the headlines there as an attacker rather than a defender – with 14 goals in 29 games during the 2019 season – not surprisingly she was then approached by top A-League Women side Melbourne Victory.
Coached by former Crystal Palace hero Jeff Hopkins, Doran was switched to defence and soon became one of the A-League Women’s best full-backs. Her move to South London has been one of gradual improvement and now, once more she is a calming and strong presence in Palace’s backline – becoming one of the league’s key players as a result.
Lily Simkin
Age: 20.
Club: Birmingham City.
Above: Birmingham City’s young star Lily Simkin. Photo: Lily Simkin Instagram.
by Elsie Nash
Birmingham City’s 20-year-old defender Lily Simkin has been part of the scene at the West Midlands club for 10 years. Simkin’s huge promise has been reflected in international age group caps at U17 level. Making her debut in 2019 in Birmingham City’s WSL game against Brighton and Hove Albion, she remains a key part of the squad aiming for a return to the top level of the game in this country.
Mia Ross
Age: 20.
Club: Charlton Athletic.
Above: Mia Ross in action for Charlton Athletic this season. Photo: Mia Ross Instagram.
by Elsie Nash
Mia Ross is a 20-year-old who joined Charlton Athletic from Liverpool. Ross’ initial campaign in South London two years ago saw her makeover 20 appearances and scoring against London City Lionesses. Her form led to a Young Lionesses (U23s) call-up where she featured in the squad’s goalless draw against Spain. This followed in the footsteps of her experience with England U19s where the Charlton star was included in the age group European Championship squad. During this tournament, Ross came off the bench and featured in the encounter against Norway. The starlet is a key part of Karen Hills’ squad that is pushing hard for a place in the WSL for 2024/25.
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Above:Leyton Orient celebrate their second successive promotion in the 2022/23 season with two games to spare, finishing their season unbeaten and 10 points clear at the top. Photo: Leyton Orient Official Media.
The current Leyton Orient team lie in the Greater London Women’s Football League Premier Division, the seventh tier of English women’s football, and have been off to a flying start in their first three seasons as a team. But this success hasn’t arisen without prior obstacles, and the story actually began almost 20 years ago.
KIKK United were an independent side founded in 2004 by two Swedes, Andrea Berg and Karin Revelj, with their home being at Mile End Stadium. The name translated from Swedish slang meaning to score in the top corner. The team achieved three league championships and one league runner-up in four seasons, from the 2008/09 season through to the 2011/12 season.
Later, in 2015, the side were given permission to use the name Leyton Orient WFC from the men’s club and competed in the Greater London Women’s Football League. The women’s team ran completely apart from the men’s club despite the established name change. During the six years under the name, the O’s climbed their way up the pyramid earning a solid spot in the fourth tier under the management of Chris Brayford, and bagged a league and cup double in the 2015/16 season.
Although Orient experienced a substantial amount of triumph, themselves and the men’s team continued to run as a separate entity under the same name. Running the teams split from each other, however, did not prove as successful with the board deciding to completely cut ties with the women’s team in 2021, just weeks after a memorable FA Cup third round fixture against Chichester and Selsey – a match that attracted over 4,000 views on the clubs streaming service.
The thought process behind this approach was to create a new academy system from under-9s through to under-18s to eventually engrain players into the first team, mirroring the boy’s academy. The club’s aim was to develop and grow women’s football at Leyton Orient and “pave a better way for girls in the future”. But the reactions from players, volunteers, and a considerable number of fans, however, was not so approving.
Many expressed their concern in the way the situation was dealt with. The former women’s side claimed in their statement it was handled in an “unhelpful and damaging way” being left just nine days to find a new identity, whether that be finding ties with another men’s team or going independent. The club was also offered the licence to operate in the fourth tier, giving players the chance to be eased into the first team at a higher standard of the game. However, this offer was declined, and didn’t want to be negotiated either.
Rea Laudat was on loan from Charlton Athletic to Orient at the time of the events and voiced her concern on Twitter at the time, “I am left utterly flabbergasted by the treatment the women’s team have received. I am tired! We are tired! Tired of being treated unequally! Tired of being treated as a quick fix to financial dismay”. Other players stated it was “a slap in the face” after all their success under the name, and a handful of fans claimed they would not be renewing their season tickets due to this.
Above: Leyton Orient WFC in a team huddle following their league championship in the 22/23 season with head coach Danny Martin in the centre. Photo: Leyton Orient Official Media
The club announced their new identity as London Seaward FC, with the name having ties with the area’s links to the sea. London Seaward became one of the only independently run women’s football clubs in London, making their aim to make sure no other side was treated the way they were and wanting to “prove you don’t need to be someone else’s women’s team to compete” as claimed on their website.
At the beginning of the 2021/22 season, the side began a fresh season in the fourth tier under their new identity for the first time, whilst the “new” Leyton Orient side embarked on their journey up the football pyramid starting from the bottom. A first-ever season for the current side left them third in the table but gained a promotion to the Greater London Women’s Football League Division One North.
Moving swiftly onto the 2022/23 season, Danny Martin was named the new Head Coach of the team along with six new additions to the squad with hopes for another season of victory. This is exactly what was achieved by the group of emerging talent. The O’s completed the season unbeaten with plenty of highly convincing wins. This success led them to earn their second successive promotion, winning the league with two games to spare and 10 points clear at the summit. They were now another step closer to the next tier up in the pyramid.
Now Orient are happily working their way through the Greater London Women’s Football League Premier Division. The team currently sit fifth in the league on 16 points, only six behind the top spot with three games in hand. If they keep their current form up, only having lost one game so far this season, a third promotion would not be out of reach for the team. Also this season, the squad came close to their first-ever FA Cup First Round spot but lost out to tier five Wroxham.
In an interview at the men’s teams’ Brisbane Road stadium last season, captain Grace Alexander stated, “Hopefully we can grow in the next ten years and potentially even be playing WSL, Championship football.” With the way Leyton Orient WFC have kicked off their first few campaigns, this dream is not impossible with the skill and ability this group of gifted players have. The hindrance that may come from aiming for this could potentially be the smaller budget due to being linked with a League One side, compared to one higher up the football hierarchy.
The future is definitely bright for this Leyton Orient WFC side so it would not come as a surprise to see them competing higher up the leagues in years to come.
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Above:England lift the European Championship trophy – an achievement which accelerated a boost in interest in the women’s game. Photo: Lionesses.
Since the European Championships 2022 when the Lionesses brought football home, the UK has seen swift growth in the women’s game, and the incline of interest is becoming bigger each day.But is it like this for all aspects of the game in the country?
It is hard to ignore the attention that women’s football is attracting within the UK. The increase in record attendances, equal pay agreements, and broadcasting deals with household names is something that we have clearly seen grow in women’s sport over the last two years. It is clear the game is growing significantly.
The rate of growth of the women’s game in public consciousness began to notably increase during the UEFA Women’s Euros in 2022 which was held in England, making the games extremely accessible either live or televised for people all over the country. Whether you were a football fan or not it was impossible to ignore the impact the Lionesses were having on the nation, and this was pivotal for the increase in popularity.
From Old Trafford to Brighton, record-breaking crowds arrived at stadiums ready to see their national team compete in one of the most well-known tournaments internationally. The opening game which was held in Manchester, was played between England and Austria, with an outstanding 68,871 fans in attendance and 4.5 million watching from home. The largest crowd the women’s tournament has ever seen for an opening match.
As more games went by, more people were drawn in by the success of the Lionesses and the tournament altogether. Eventually, as England made their unbelievable entrance to Wembley, in front of 87,192 spectators for the final against Germany, it was clear that no matter the result the fans’ hearts had already been captured in the beauty of the women’s game.
Above: England celebrate during their opening Euros game against Austria in front of a huge crowd at Old Trafford. Photo: Lionesses.
This was a huge step forward compared to the four million UK viewers who watched the 2017 version of the tournament which was held in the Netherlands.
Despite the obvious growth within the women’s game, there are still negative and uneducated opinions with people assuming that women’s football is only increasing in views due to greater female audiences. However, it is evidently proven that the Euros 2022 spectator statistics stood at 59% male and 41% female.
In fact, the tournament was the fourth most-watched sports event by both men and women in the UK in the year 2022 and this led the 2022 Euros to be the most-watched women’s European football championship in history.
Ex-women’s professional footballer Karen Carney MBE states that “it is clear that the women’s game in this country can become a world-leading sport that not only generates immense economic and social value but sets the standards for women’s professional sport globally.” Therefore, having a wider impact all over the world, not only England.
One year on from the European Championships 2022, we saw the record-breaking World Cup take place in Australia and New Zealand. The sustainability of the women’s game was further proven in this tournament, with 12 million UK viewers tuning in to the final of the competition between Spain and England.
In addition, this year we have witnessed major attendances in the English league. This includes the 60,000 fans attending the Champions League semi-final between Arsenal Women and Wolfsburg at the Emirates Stadium in May 2023 and over 59,000 at the same venue for the Gunners’ WSL game with Chelsea just two days ago.
Above: Wymondham Town (red kit) in action before they were forced to disband just months after the Lionesses’ Euros success. Photo: Wymondham Town.
But has this growth and sustainability filtered its way into the pathway of all clubs within England? Whilst a number of teams in the WSL have seen an explosion in popularity, it is not this way for many other clubs within England, especially in the lower leagues, and progression still needs to be made for many teams.
Many of these issues have been occurring in the lower leagues within England and despite the success of the Lionesses in summer 2022 and the record-breaking attendances at WSL games, not all teams through the UK are getting the correct facilities, pay and reliability from their club owners which is putting many at risk of careers as well as injury.
Tier four in England is one that has suffered. Just a matter of months from the Lionesses’ Euros win, both Wymondham Town and Hounslow had to withdraw from the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East.
Wymondham were a side that had experienced great success in the regional and local tiers of the game, finally moving into tier four. However, the celebrations were cut short less than two months into their debut in tier four. The club announced that they would have to withdraw from the division after “losing multiple players over the season and a number of players out with long-term injuries.”
The amazingly successful Chelsea, the side who have won the WSL six times, the FA Cup five times, and made it to the Champions League semi-finals and finals have not seen their on-field successes matched by attendances.
This season, against Liverpool, Chelsea welcomed 12,802 fans into Stamford Bridge which left 28,000 seats empty. Additionally, this was at the time of the men’s international break and only a day later the Manchester women’s derby welcomed 43,000 fans into Old Trafford. Arsenal are now able to attract crowds of over 30,000 to The Emirates for games against clubs outside of the big four in the WSL. This highlights that there must be deeper issues for Chelsea.
Let’s not forget back in 2019 when the club was giving away free tickets for the Blues’ match against Spurs, but they still didn’t manage to fill the stadium. Head coach Emma Hayes calls for immediate change and improvement within the “business side of things” to attract more crowds to Chelsea games and make it sustainable for the future. If attendances are low when the team is winning so much, what will they look like if their current winning streak ends?
Overall, major changes still need to be made in the women’s game. Particularly in England, lower-league teams need to be more deeply prioritized by the FA to create a more sustainable and safer path for the future of these players and not just have all the focus being put on the teams within the higher-profile league.
Whilst we can go on to celebrate and advertise the growth of the ‘big teams’ and national sides, we must not sugarcoat the avoided areas of the women’s game within England and explore how we can improve them which will ultimately make the women’s game more sustainable and accessible for all.
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Jean-Pierre Thiesset returns after the international break with all the news from the 10th round of the 2023-2024 D1 Arkema season with his MATILDAS WATCH and exclusive photos from pitchside at Olympique Lyonnais v Lille(12/12/23).
Above: Julie Swierot of Olympique Lyonnais (multicolour shirt), fighting for the ball. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Olympique Lyonnais 5-0 Lille
Once again, Lyon boss Sonia Bompastor had to leave several key personnel on the bench or even out of the squad. Players such as Melchie Dumornay and Kadidiatou Diani were injured on international duty, as well as players who had just come back from their national team or who were well-used by their respective countries. This last group included Selma Bacha, Vicki Becho, Lindsey Horan, and Ellie Carpenter.
That gave an opportunity for young players from Lyon’s academy to to have some playing time. Wassa Sangaré, defender (17-years-old) who got 20 minutes, Julie Swierot, midfielder (17-years-old), who played 46 minutes, and Laureen Oillic, midfielder (18-years-old) who received 30 minutes of game time.
Above: Laureen Oillic, Lyon multicoloured shirt in the centre, in action. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Even with those key players missing, Lyon largely dominated this game against a team that came up to D1 Arkema this season and for whom the gap to Lyon was just too large. The young players showed that they were ready to replace their elders. At the end of the second half, Swierot had a goal disallowed and Oillic hit the right-hand post. The only worrying point for Lyon was the injury of Eugénie Le Sommer at the end of the first half. Le Sommer was named player of the month in November.
Above: Eugénie Le Sommer, Lyon multicolour shirt, in action before her injury. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
MATILDAS WATCH – Ellie Carpenter (Olympique Lyonnais) During to being with her national team in Canada a few days before, and to preserve her for the UWCL game which will take place on Wednesday, Carpenter did not play any part in this game.
Saint-Etienne 2-1 Guingamp
An important game for Saint-Etienne who needed the win to begin their climb from the foot of the table and earned a vital win in the process. Saint-Etienne now have the same number of points as Guingamp (seven).
Scorers for Saint-Etienne: DePriest (33’), Caputo (61’). Scorer for Guingamp: Teinturier (57’).
Montpellier 1-4 Paris FC
Above: Marie Petiteau, Montpellier goalkeeper, yellow shirt, cannot do anything about Daphne Corboz’s (8) shot for Paris FC. Photo: Montpellier.
Paris FC started the game strongly and quickly had several opportunities. Maria Petiteau, Montpellier’s goalkeeper, made several great saves. Then, after a poor clearance by Montpellier’s central defence, Gaétane Thiney opened the score with a great shot near the right post from eighteen metres out.
Above: The Paris FC team that started their game at Montpellier. Photo: Paris FC.
Paris FC continued to dominate the game in second half and won against a Montpellier side who couldn’t deny a team who are playing in the Champions League this season. Scorer for Montpellier: Mondésir (62’). Scorers for Paris FC: Thiney (12’), D. Corboz (24’), Bourdieu (41’), Ribadeira (87’).
MATILDAS WATCH – Sarah Hunter (Paris FC) After international duty in Canada with the Matildas, Sarah Hunter was not in the squad.
Reims 2-0 Fleury
It was a level game in the first half with no clear opportunities for either side as they were both content to watch and wait. Reims pushed a little bit more in second half and opened the score on the hour.
Above: Melissa Gomes, shooting the penalty to open the score for Reims. Photo: Reims website.
After their goal, Reims started to have more of the ball. In the 67th minute, three minutes after coming on, Noémie Mouchon scored the second goal for Reims after a lovely run starting from inside her own half. With this win, Reims move to fourth in the standings. Scorers for Reims: Gomes (61’ penalty), Mouchon (67’).
Dijon 1-0 Bordeaux
A game with no great action between two teams who struggle at the bottom of the standings. In the very last minute, Dijon scored the only goal of this game. Scorer for Dijon: Picard (90’+4). Red card: Seguin, Bordeaux (66’).
Le Havre 1-1 Paris Saint-Germain
PSG dominated the beginning of the match (70% of possession), but it was Inès Benyahia who opened the score for Le Havre on a counterattack and a long run from the centre of the field after the visitors’ Elisa De Almeida, gave the ball to Benyahia in midfield.
Above: Inès Benyahia, Le Havre. Photo: Emmanuel Lelaidier / HAC.
After Le Havre’s goal, PSG continued to dominate, but they were too inaccurate when it mattered to pull level. PSG continued their domination in the second half but the Le Havre players worked well together to continue to frustrate them. Jocelyn Prêcheur, PSG’s coach, replaced Amalie Vangsgaard with Marie-Antoinette Katoto and went to a 4-3-3 lineup on the hour. Unfortunately for Le Havre, PSG equalised at the very end of the game; however, it was a deserved result for PSG. PSG struggled a lot in the final third of the field in this game and will need to improve ahead of their Champions League tie this week. Scorer for Le Havre: Benyahia (19’). Scorer for Paris SG: Geyoro (90’+5).
MATILDAS WATCH – Clare Hunt (Paris Saint-Germain) Despite playing for The Matildas in Canada last week, Hunt was in the starting lineup in this game in the centre of the defence as part of a 3-5-2 formation.
Further exclusive photos from Olympique Lyonnais v Lille from Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus
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