Wanderers steal a shock win in Wellington.

Wellington Phoenix 0 – 1 Western Sydney Wanderers

By Callum Logie 29/3/26

Above: Alvina Khoshaba (right, facing camera) competes for possession with Brooke Nunn. Photo: Wellington Phoenix

The always atmospheric Porirua Park hosted an interesting encounter between two teams who have had very different seasons. Despite generating some good chances, Wellington were unable to score and a late winner from Yuan Cong lifted Western Sydney off the bottom of the table.

Defeat at home for the Phoenix means that Melbourne City secured the premier’s plate despite not playing any football this round, now 6 points clear on the top of the table.

Western Sydney Wanderers were looking to avenge their 3-0 loss in the reverse fixture but Wellington were of course looking to gain momentum in the lead up to the finals. 

It was a back and forth start in the first 10 minutes, both teams putting together some attacks, Wellington more so but Western Sydney regularly looked to counter with pace. 

In the 11th minute, Grace Jale played a clever lofted through ball over to Brooke Nunn who took control in the box and took a shot at goal. Shamiram Khamis was able to collect confidently, but the Phoenix looked the most likely to score in the early moments.

10 minutes later, Mackenzie Anthony lashed a half-volley wide of the goal. Wellington were looking to put on the pressure as the first half progressed. 

In the 30th minute, Wellington nearly took the lead as Amy Harrison played a casual ball back to Khamis and Pia Vlok picked up possession in the box. She misdirected her effort on goal though and Western Sydney were able to preserve the deadlock after half an hour of play.

In the second half, a collision between Poppie Hooks, Makala Woods and Khamis led to an ankle injury suffered by Hooks. Alana Cerne replaced her as she needed to be helped off the field. 

A corner in the 58th minute gave a chance to Marisa van der Meer who forced a reflex save out of Khamis. Western Sydney were resolute in defence through the whole game, hoping to build some momentum heading into next season after a disappointing campaign this year. 

At the hour mark, Grace Jale tried an ambitious shot from around 35 yards out. It was well struck and forced a spill out of Khamis who was able to collect the second time of asking and drew a foul in the process.

In the 69th minute, Nunn released Woods who had a shot on goal at a narrow angle. Khamis charged town and was able to make the save, still keeping the game scoreless.

Against the run of play, in the 78th minute, Western Sydney remarkably took the lead. A long ball over from Ena Harada looped over to Yuan Cong who volleyed the ball at goal. Victoria Esson was able to make the first save but Yuan followed up and converted to give the Wanderers an unlikely lead. 

The Phoenix played the rest of the game with desperation and managed to get a shot on goal from substitute Daisy Brazendale in the 98thminute. That strike however was driven wide and Western Sydney were able to get their fifth win of the season. 

Khamis secured her fourth clean sheet of the season, having been the bright spot for the Wanderers throughout this campaign. The win allows Western Sydney to build some momentum heading into the next season and makes the finals race that much more interesting for Wellington. 

WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-1-3-2): Esson, Elliott, van der Meer, Barry, Walker, Jale, Vlok, Pijnenburg, Nunn, Anthony, Woods. Substitutes: Benson, Brazendale, Feinberg-Danieli, Fraser, Jaber, Marte de Leon.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-2-2-2): Khamis, Khoshaba, Wang, Harrison, Hooks, Chessari, Buchanan, Ng-Saad, Harada, Collins, Matos. Substitutes: Barker, Cerne, Edwards, Fazarri, Yuan, Zumaya.

Scorers: Yuan 78′.

Referee: Mikayla Ryan

Attendance: 1,756.

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City excited for another continental journey despite unknown opposition

by Alyce Collett (25/3/26)

Above: Michael Matricciani (left) and Taylor Otto (right) spoke to the media ahead of this afternoon’s big Asian Champions League clash between Melbourne City and PFC Nasaf. Photo: Alyce Collett for Impetus.

Today is a big day for Melbourne City, with the team set to compete in yet another Women’s Asian Champions League Quarter Final when they face PFC Nasaf at the Home of the Matildas this afternoon.

This match up posed a unique challenge for City coach Michael Matricciani, with opposition analysis a little bit more difficult than it usually is.

Speaking ahead of this afternoon’s match, he explained that “we can’t get any information from their local league, but they obviously qualified last November to the Quarter Final, so we have those three group stage matches. We also had the three preliminary rounds, which was a month or two prior.

“But really analysing that, but also analysing the Uzbekistan national team because there’s a lot of players, I think there’s over 10 that are playing in this and that side. So I know there’s different coaches, but when they played against the Philippines a few weeks back to qualify for the World Cup, in that match there was nine players in the starting lineup for Uzbekistan national team that are going to be playing tomorrow.

“So we’ve done an analysis on their club performances in the group stage and also a little bit of the national team and sort of getting a guide on the styles of more the individual players, and then we’ll see in the first five minutes what they’re going to throw at us and we’ll be able to adapt.”

The timing of the match could have been really unfortunate, with a number of City’s youngest stars having been called up to the Young Matildas side competing in the Under 20 Women’s Asian Cup that begins next week.

However, Matricciani said that there was never much of a risk of his Young Matildas’ stars not being available, saying that “Alex [Epakis, Young Matildas head coach] called me maybe three or four weeks ago suggesting that we have a few players that are in contention to get selected into that Asian Cup with the under twenties, and he said that because it’s not an A-League round, that would allow whatever players were going to be selected to play in this match.”

The City boss also confirmed that there were no injury or player load concerns ahead of the match this afternoon.

“We had two players, Caitlin Karic and Ellie Wilson that are coming back from a bit longer term injuries, but otherwise, everyone else is getting ready to go” Matricciani said.

This is not City’s first rodeo at this stage of the continental tournament, having gone all the way to the final in last season’s edition.

Speaking at the same media call as her coach, defender Taylor Otto shed some light on how last year’s experiences have helped shape the build up to the knockout stage of the tournament this time around.

“I think like in anything, the first time you’re doing it, it’s kind of a bit you go with what’s presented to you, and this year we have a little bit more experience” Otto explained.

“We’ve been here before and we’ve given ourselves the opportunity to have another home quarterfinal, which is awesome and gives us a little bit more stability.

“So I think we’re just taking everything in stride and taking what we learned from last year to do our best this year.”

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Sydney shock rivals in Big Blue

Sydney FC 2-1 Melbourne Victory

by Emma Burke (28/3/26)

Above: Riley Tanner (centre) celebrates with team mates after scoring today against Melbourne Victory. Photo: via the A-Leagues.

A double from Riley Tanner secured Sydney FC a 2-1 win over Melbourne Victory in the Big Blue, throwing a spanner in the works of the visiting team’s finals hopes.

This fixture saw the return of a Sydney FC legend to the starting line up with Charlotte McLean making her first appearance for the side since departing for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in 2024.

Holly Furphy took advantage of a lapse in concentration at the top of the box by Sydney’s defence early on, and slipped the ball through to Rachel Lowe who made no mistake in finishing at the top left corner.

A poor pass by Victory’s Kayla Morrison to her centre back partner Claudia Bunge was then intercepted by Tanner minutes later, who was left one-on-one with keeper Courtney Newbon.

Tanner drove the ball into the left side of the goal to score her first of the game, and fourth of the season for the Sky Blues.

Victory had a number of chances to retake the lead, with Rhianna Pollicina and Ella O’Grady both having good looks on goal that were either stopped by Sydney’s keeper Heather Hinz or skirted just wide.

It was the home side who would secure the lead soon after the second half began, when Tanner was again well positioned and aware of the defence ahead of her.

Morrison made a second mistake again leading to a goal, this time under hitting a pass to her keeper, again inviting Tanner into the play to poach the ball.

Tanner had more than enough time to trap the ball and shoot, again to the left side, putting Sydney up 2-1.

Sydney had the opportunity to further punish Victory, but a flurry of close ranged shots from Jodi Ulkekul were denied by Newbon, Morrison, and the post.

Despite maintaining the lion’s share of possession in the second half, Victory were unable to find an equaliser, securing Sydney just their fourth win of the season.

The three points now keep Sydney off the bottom of the table, and mean Victory’s finals appearance depends on not only a win in the final round against Perth Glory, but the results of other games to fall in their favour.

Sydney FC (5-3-2): Hinz, Pearson, Tumeth, Ayson, McLean, Lemon, Corbett, Ulkekul, Hawkesby, Tanner, Luchtmeijer Substitutes: Hollman, Fenton, Tallon-Henniker, Valletta, Robertson, Oppendisano

Scorers: Tanner 31′, 49′

Melbourne Victory (4-2-3-1): Newbon, Blissett, Morrison, Bunge, Pickett, Ray, Pollicina, Sakalis, Lowe, Furphy, O’Grady Substitutes: Jancevski, White, Maher, Techera, Curtis, Woodward

Scorers: Lowe 23′

Referee: Isabella Mossin

Attendance: 2,107

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Jets fuel fading Finals hopes to dent below-strength Adelaide’s top two dream

Adelaide United 1-3 Newcastle Jets

by Ben Gilby (28/3/26)

Above: Kelli Brown (white shirt), who scored two of Newcastle Jets’ goals battles away for possession today at ServiceFM Stadium. Photo: Newcastle Jets.

Newcastle Jets gained a victory at a significantly depleted Adelaide United this afternoon which keeps alive their Finals hopes for at least another 24 hours.

This outcome has put a spanner in the works of their South Australian opponents’ aims of finishing in the top two.

Two goals from New Zealand international Kelli Brown, plus one from Josie Allan propelled Newcastle to an excellent win. Isabelle Hodgson was on the mark for the Reds, who have now only picked up one point across their last three games as the season reaches the business end.

Adelaide were well below strength, with a combination of injury, international duty, and personal reasons, plus Fiona Worts departure coming together at the worst possible time.

The Reds were only able to name four substitutes, one of whom was a goalkeeper. Their starting line-up showed five changes from last weekend’s defeat at Canberra United. Claudia Jenkins came in for Ilona Melegh in goal, with Dylan Holmes replacing Matilda McNamara. Isabelle Hodgson, Lara Gooch, and Sian Dewey also came in for Erin Healy, Adriana Taranto, and Paige Zois.

Newcastle Jets handed a debut to Ally Boertje, part of four changes from their starting XI that went down 4-2 to Brisbane Roar last Friday. Zoe Karipidis replaced Emma Bates, with Kelli Brown and Charlotte Lancaster coming in for Alexis Collins and Emma Dundas.

Adelaide had the first real opportunity of this encounter with 20 minutes played as Isabelle Hodgson broke down the right and played a pass inside Karipidis for Gooch to control and then cut diagonally inside to let fly with a powerful effort from just outside the 18 yard box that Boertje held brilliantly as Chelsie Dawber closed in rapidly.

Just three minutes later, the visitors hit the front as Josie Allan took possession in the middle of the park to play a perfectly weighted pass between Emily Hodgson and Holmes into the stride of Brown who timed her run perfectly to advance into acres of space and fire into the right-hand corner of the net.

Just before the half-hour mark, the Jets came close to doubling their advantage. Melina Ayres played in a high ball from the left that Jenkins couldn’t deal with and it bounced perfectly for Brown to drive a power blaster goalwards from around 10 yards, but Jenkins made a stunning diving save to repel the danger, only for Ayres to fire a half volley back which Jenkins got back off of the turf to deal with impressively once more.

Inspired by their goalkeeper’s heroics, the hosts levelled with four minutes remaining of the half.

Sarah Morgan, stationed in the midfield, laid a pass to Emily Hodgson outside her, who in turn found Dawber on the left-hand edge of the box. The attacker crossed towards the back post where Isabelle Hodgson came in to flick a header behind her marker Karipidis and into the net.

Newcastle regained the lead 10 minutes into the second half. Sophie Hoban came out on top in a tussle with Ella Tonkin along the right that the Adelaide defender looked likely to win initially and was able to calmly cut the pass back for an unmarked Josie Allan to side foot home from less than 10 yards.

The Jets pressed once more, and Jenkins kept her side in the game yet again with 25 minutes remaining. Libby Copus-Brown released Brown from the right, with Jenkins coming out rapidly to block the Football Fern striker’s shot, with the ball rebounding to for Ayres to hit a half-volley that Zoe Tolland headed away just in front of the goal line.

However, Newcastle did get their third with seven minutes of regulation time remaining. Substitute Haley Johnson cleared the ball through the middle for Brown to race onto from around 35 yards. Despite Tonkin’s best efforts to push her to the right, the former Wellington Phoenix and Perth Glory attacker laid a cool finish into the far corner of the net.

To make Finals, the Jets need Central Coast Mariners to lose both their remaining games, and they themselves would have to defeat a Melbourne City side out for a win to clinch a third successive Premiers crown.

Adelaide United, who are guaranteed Finals football, end their home and away season at home to a Wellington Phoenix side who can still become Premiers themselves.

Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED (4-3-3): Jenkins, Tolland, Tonkin, Holmes, E.Hodgson, Morgan, Gooch, Dewey, I.Hodgson, Dawber, Condon. Substitutes: Bowler, Miller, Nicholas, Rossi.

Scorer: I.Hodgson 41′.

NEWCASTLE JETS (4-3-3): Boertje, Karipidis, Prior, Wilson, Cicco, Hoban, Copus-Brown, J.Allan, Lancaster, Ayres, Brown. Substitutes: Adams, L.Allan, Bates, Dunbar, Johnson, Page.

Scorers: Brown 23′, 83′. J.Allan 55′.

Referee: Georgia Ghiradello.

Attendance: 571.

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Five-star performance keeps Brisbane’s finals hopes alive

Brisbane Roar 5-2 Perth Glory

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (27/3/26)

Above: Momo Hayashi celebrates after scoring one of the two goals she scored tonight against the Perth Glory. Photo: via the A-Leagues.

A match full of end-to-end action saw Brisbane Roar take the points against Perth Glory in the penultimate round of the Ninja A-League. There was no shortage of action at Spencer Park – with 7 goals between the two sides –  however after 90 minutes of thrilling and unpredictable football, it was the hosts who held onto the win by five goals to two. Their goals came from Aimee Medwin, Kijah Stephenson, Tameka Yallop and a double from Momo Hayashi.

The Glory were thrown a spanner in the works just before kick off. Glory keeper Teresa Morrissey was scheduled to start; however Dayle Schroeder ended up making her A-League debut when Morrissey was ruled out in the last minute.

Perth took the first chance of the game when Megan Wynne made a pass that just missed the boot of Rola Badawiya, who was well within range.

Despite the Glory having the better chances early on, it was Brisbane who held the possession in the opening minutes, as the Roar were able to dominate the ball and regain control of the match in the face of Perth’s attacking strength.

The Glory continued to get forward, with a Badawiya goal feeling inevitable. However Chloe Lincoln – who makes her first appearance since returning from her campaign at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup – was not making it easy for the visitors.

Eventually Brisbane broke through with a Medwin header off a corner from Angie Beard, putting the hosts ahead at the 20th minute.

There were continued efforts at both ends, with Roar taking the dominant edge as they chased their second. Their efforts were rewarded at the 32nd minute when captain Hayashi reached the back of the net from inside the box.

Bente Jansen came close to finding the third for the hosts, but didn’t have the right footing to create a real opportunity.

Although possession was fairly even and Perth had the better of the early chances, the game became increasingly Roar’s for the taking, with Glory appearing more passive on the ball as halftime approached.

Just moments before the halftime whistle, a Julia Sardo header gave Perth Glory one back, leaving the score 2-1 to Brisbane at the break.

The 48th minute saw a phenomenal goal, which was a long time coming from Badawiya, earning an equaliser for Glory.

A clash between Alicia Woods and Isobel Dalton sent Dalton down, causing a momentary pause in play, leaving Perth with 10 players, as there was a fair amount of initial concern for the captain.

Brisbane managed to capitalise on the absence of the Perth Glory captain, taking back their lead with a magnificent shot from distance from Stephenson.

With 5 goals before the hour mark, and an incredible display of reactive tactics across the pitch, the game remained unpredictable. Despite the Roar holding the lead, Perth’s response displayed a determination to find another equaliser, and the Glory continued creating chances to do so.

However the Roar then furthered their lead with a Hayashi free kick, following a foul on Woods by Dalton.

In late drama, Schroeder was taken down with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, halting play momentarily.

In the final minutes of additional time, it was Yallop who made it 5 for the hosts, sealing Brisbane’s win.

The visitors fought tirelessly to the end to find another goal, however there were no real chances to be found, and it was Brisbane who took the points.

The win leaves Brisbane in fifth on the ladder, a position the Roar will be desperate to hold onto as they face Canberra United at McKellar Park next week if they wish to get their first taste of finals football since 2021.

Meanwhile Perth Glory will head home to take on Melbourne Victory next week, and will undoubtedly be looking for any points they can get.

BRISBANE ROAR (4-2-3-1): Lincoln, Medwin, Beard, Cuthbert, Studer, Hayashi, Woods, Meyers, Miller, Stephenson, Jansen. Substitutes: Campbell, Franco, Hanson, Kinsella, Piazza, Yallop.

Goals: Medwin 20’, Hayashi 32’, 65’, Stephenson 57’, Yallop 90+7’

PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Schroeder, Johnston,McKenna, Zogg, Sardo, Cassidy, Dalton, Tolvar, Badawiya, Hollar, Wynne. Substitutes: O’Donoghue, Anderson, Abdul Massih, Lincoln, Wainwright, Morrissey.

Goals: Sardo 45+2’, Badawiya 49’

Referee: Rachael Mitchenson.

Attendance: 2,044.

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“Pressure is a privilege.” Perth Glory’s Stephen Peters and Gabby Hollar preview finals decider against Brisbane Roar. 

Above: Gabby Hollar speaks to the media. Image: Perth Glory.

By Ella McShane (26/3/2026)

As Australia takes a breath to process the Asian Cup, the heat in the A-League kitchen only is only intensifying. Perth Glory are set to take on Brisbane Roar this Friday at Spencer Park, with only six points up for grabs in the regular season and the possibility of a play offs spot, the girls in purple have it all to play for in the tropics. 

Stephen Peters and a Gabby Hollar reflected on last weekend’s draw with the Mariners and expressed both encouragement and frustration with the result.

“We controlled the game quite well,” said Peters. “That cutting edge in the final third probably let us down.” 

Hollar echoed the sentiment, highlighting the team’s standards despite the stalemate.

“It’s disappointing that we couldn’t get the three points,” said Hollar. “You’re in a good position if you’re disappointed by a tie.”

The girls in purple have not been in realistic finals conversations for several years, with Peters and Hollar offering insight into the tone and mindset behind these discussions. 

“For us to be having these conversations and having to deal with the pressure that comes with it, is a real growth point for us,” said Peters. 

“Pressure is a privilege,” said Hollar. “To have pressure on us, is a good thing at this point in the season. It’s just prepping us for finals.”

Looking ahead to their opponents, Brisbane Roar have grappled with a demanding schedule, while both sides have undergone significant tactical development since their round two meeting.

“I think it’s pretty normal what they’ve gone through. In terms of the amount of quality that they’re missing,” said Peters. “It feels like an age ago that we played them. It’s a hard one to predict.”

Looking to absences and the injury bench, Onyi Zogg is due to return from suspension and close to a full team compliment is expected. 

Brisbane Roar v Perth Glory will take place at Spencer Park at 5pm AWST and will be available to stream live and free on 10Play and Paramount+ for paying subscribers. 

“If we’re at our best, we can beat anyone on that day”: Pollicina ahead of must-win Big Blue

Above: Rhianna Pollicina talks to the media. Image: Melbourne Victory.

By Isabelle Campbell (27/03/26)

Melbourne Victory midfielder Rhianna Pollicina says her side need to embrace the pressure and “go for the win” as they prepare for a decisive ‘Big Blue’ clash with Sydney FC this Saturday at Leichhardt Oval.

With just two games remaining in the regular A-League Women season, Victory sit sixth and are clinging to a finals spot, making this weekend’s rivalry fixture a must-win in the battle for the top six.

The squad returns from the international break following the Asian Cup, with Pollicina describing the tournament as an inspiring backdrop while Victory used the time to reset and fine-tune their own preparations.

“The Asian Cup was definitely motivating. The girls put up a good performance against Japan. Unfortunately, they didn’t get the win, but the stats show they did dominate the game, which was nice, and as a spectator, it was nice to watch. Unfortunate for them not to go all the way but they did really well to get to the final.”

“On the Victory girls, we’ve had a good week and a half off. We still worked hard in the break, had an internal game, which was really effective. We’re looking forward to Saturday’s game, we just need to go for the win.”

Pollicina also provided an update on her wrist injury, which she sustained earlier in the season, saying she is now fully recovered following a successful rehab process.

“My wrist is all good, I’m out of the splint now full time. The recovery was all well, I saw the surgeon not long ago and that was all smooth, just strapping it up to play now. Credit to the staff as well. They’ve put me through rehab, and it’s feeling fine now,” she said.

Her determination to return quickly after the injury saw her miss minimal time, something she attributed to both her own mindset and the club’s swift handling of her recovery.

“I’m not someone that likes to miss football. So the 10 days that I was off my feet, I was very annoying, and the staff had to definitely hold me back. I had the determination to get back on the field ASAP. Only missed the one game, and then straight back in, starting against Newcastle, which was nice. But it’s all down to, obviously, the surgery process and that the club got the ball rolling fast and got me in the recovery mode as quick as possible.”

Victory will also be looking to refine aspects of their performance following their recent win over the Western Sydney Wanderers, particularly in possession and in front of goal. Pollicina said the team has used the break to review and address those areas, with a clear focus on converting chances this weekend.

“It obviously wasn’t our best performance with the ball. We know that we could be better, and we’ve looked at that, and we’ve obviously got great staff when it comes to reviewing the game, and we know where we need to be better, and we know we need to put some goals away. We focused on that in the last two weeks, and hopefully that comes this weekend. We need it to come, because we do need the win. The girls are definitely feeling confident, which is nice.”

Despite Sydney FC enduring an inconsistent season that sees them currently sat at the foot of the table, Pollicina is wary of the challenge ahead, particularly in a league where results have proven unpredictable and ladder position offers little guarantee.

“Obviously, with this league, it doesn’t matter where you are on the table, and it’s been proven the last few weeks, bottom teams can beat the top teams. So we know that it’s going to be a tough game no matter what. They’ve got some quality individuals that we need to look out for as well. They’ve got a new coach, so that coach is going to be motivated to get his wins going. We know it’s going to be a tough game and we need to be our best, and if we’re at our best, we can beat anyone on that day.”

With finals football within reach but yet to be secured, Victory’s approach remains grounded in controlling the controllables. Pollicina emphasised the importance of focusing inward and maintaining a game-by-game mindset as the season reaches a critical stage.

“We just take every game as it comes. We focus on us and what we can do to win the game. We don’t focus on other teams and other results. We’ve just got to focus on us, and we’ve done that the last couple of games. Getting that 1-0 win against Wanderers felt like the old Victory again. And that’s what we’ll look to do this week against Sydney as well, just take it one game at a time not look at any results and we know that we have to win so we’re going to do everything it takes to win.”

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Mariners sail past Phoenix to steal important win

Central Coast Mariners 2-1 Wellington Phoenix

by Alyce Collett (25/3/26)

Above: Central Coast Mariners players celebrate after scoring one of their two goals they scored tonight against the Wellington Phoenix. Photo: via the A-Leagues.

The Central Coast Mariners have picked up an important three points in the race for finals qualification after a shock 2-1 win over the Wellington Phoenix.

The goals took a while to come, but eventually the Mariners found the back of the net thanks to Eliza Familton and Isabel Gomez. Macey Fraser also found the back of the net for the visitors halfway through second half stoppage time, but it was ultimately a case of too little too late.

The win sees the Mariners jump up to fifth on the ladder, while Wellington’s hopes for the minor premierships got a little bit harder.

The first half did not contain any goals, but it did contain some very strong defensive work from both sides.

The action was very free flowing, but neither side could convert or really looked like scoring.

The keepers certainly had plenty to do but they did not have to break a sweat while doing so, whether that be because of the power of the shot or the angle of the shot.  

Both sides were trying to use the full width of the field, but well placed defences led by the likes of Taren King up one end and Mackenzie Barry up the other end ensured that the attackers had to find increasingly more intricate ways to get effective shots away. Lucia Leon, Brooke Nunn, Avaani Prakash and Familton were all trying their hardest to generate something for their sides, but just could not quite pickpocket their opponent’s defence to maximum effect.

The half time stats told a very interesting story.

The Phoenix ultimately finished the first half with about six percent more of the possession and got significantly more shots away than their hosts (eight to three), but crucially, they also only had one more shot on target than the Mariners did.

Perhaps keenly aware of the importance of this match not ending in a draw, the goal drought did not extend too long into the second half.

The Mariners scored first through Familton, who had been lively in the first half and was making the most of her starting debut. She found herself perfectly placed to be under the flight of a perfectly curled Peta Trimis cross, and then perfectly headed the ball past Phoenix keeper Victoria Esson and into the back of the net.

The home side doubled their lead just under half an hour later through Gomez, who let a bullet of a banger lose from just outside the top of the box that sailed into the top corner of the net, which Esson had no hope of stopping.

The evening’s offerings of bangers did not stop with Gomez though, as Fraser delivered one of her own a couple of minutes into stoppage time. It was the perfect free kick, taken just further out than where Gomez took  her shot from, and it sailed straight past Annalee Grove and into the back of the net.

Teams: CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-4-2): Grove, Baumann, King, Barwick-Grey, Martin, Fuller, Kraszula, Gomez, Trimis, Familton, Prakash. Substitutes: Buchanan, Farrow, Levin, Thew, Quilligan, Varley.

Scorers: Familton 58’, Gomez 83’

WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-4-2): Esson, Walker, Barry, van der Meer, Elliott, Nunn, Pijnenburg, Jale, Vlok, León, Anthony. Substitutes: Benson, Brazendale, Feinberg-Danieli, Fraser, Jaber, M.Woods. 

Scorers: Fraser 93’

Referee: Sophie Allum.

Attendance: TBC.

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NPLW Vic R6: Melbourne City win, and Koizumi is back to her best

By Kieran Yap 25/3/26

Above: Maia Capitanio. Photo: Melbourne City

Bulleen climbed to fourth, Melbourne City enjoyed their first win, and Heidelberg United returned to the winners list in Round Six of the Victorian NPLW.

 Melbourne City hosted Keilor Park SC in an interesting clash of styles,  and the home team began the game confidently against the side that recently beat Victory in this competition.

City’s devotion to passing out from the back and keeping the ball on the deck is showing improvement week to week, even if the wins have been elusive. Keilor looked to pressure the hosts at every opportunity, hoping to force mistakes or encourage them to sacrifice their plan, but to City’s credit, they continued to try and play through the aggressive press.

As they did last round, Keilor looked to score early, Abby Holmes was their most dangerous player, and tested Dali Gorr-Burchmore in goal, but the Junior Matilda’s goalkeeper was equal to the shots.

City dominated general play, and Mary Brown looked dangerous in the attacking third, but Keilor’s defensive structure held them at bay until the 25th minute. Maia  Capitanio was waiting at the far post at a corner kick and struck her half volley perfectly for the only goal of the game and City’s first win in the NPLW.

Spring Hills travelled to play Heidelberg United at The Home of The Matildasand took part in another classic match. Seo Jiyoun opened the scoring for the Warriors. Ayo Sasaki’s long, looping ball forward caused confusion in the Spring Hills defence, and Seo was able to tap into an empty net.

Spring Hills were able to draw level through Rachel Gillies corner kick. Her curling delivery snuck in at the near post. The equaliser had seemed like it was coming, but the method was a surprise.

Seo’s 33rd minute effort put Heidelberg back In the lead, Minori Akiyama combined to Sasaki to play Seo through in on goal and restore the home side’s one-goal advantage.

And absurd goal in the dying seconds of added time gave Heidelberg a two-goal cushion going into the beak. Samantha Curwood-Wanger’s persistence on the wing created the chance, and a deflection off Nali Plant send the ball sailing over everyone but under the crossbar.

Spring Hills are always dangerous though, especially when Aleks Sinclair is allowed to turn and attack. Sinclair dribbled along the byline and cut the ball back for it to be half cleared by Heidelberg, but smashed home by Bella Stringfellow to make it 3-2 in the second half.

Spring Hills regained momentum and searched for what might have been a deserved equaliser, but Heidelberg were in an unforgiving mood and made it 4-2 through Sasaki’s penalty to seal their first win of the season so far.

The Preston Lions hosted Alamein FC on Friday night and after a close loss last week, they were eager to make amends.

It was not to be, with Alamein continuing their strong start to the season. Zoe Houghton scored the opening goal, but it was made by the surging run through midfield by Anna Liacopoulos who created space for her teammates, then found Savanna Anastasopoulos out wide. The cross was dangerous and Houghton was first to meet it, scoring in the 37th minute.

Houghton turned provider for the second goal. Preston had gained some control of the game, and were knocking the ball about purposefully, but a turnover resulted in a Houghton’s cross and Anastasopoulos eventually finishing after Emma Runnals kept the chance alive.

Runnalls capped off the win, meeting Summer Laskey’s ball with a leaping header that left Preston with a scoreline that may not have reflected the whole game, but did reflect how clinical Alamein were when they went forward.

Friday’s other game saw Box Hill United jump into first place after a win over Melbourne Victory’s U23’s.

Several key players from Victory were unavailable. With Sienna Saveska and Sienna Techera injured, and others with the senior A-League Women squad. Box Hill had the result effectively secured by half time, even with star forward Erin Keyt on the bench, they had no trouble finding the net. Maho Murakami scored in the 5th minute after a wonderful combination with Juri Kawano.

Kiara Bercelli’s strike from the corner of the penalty box doubled the lead in the 18th minute and Grace Norbury made it three almost immediately after with a long range goal.

A long ball forward found Kawano almost unmarked in attack and she was able to lift the ball over the approaching Natalie Picak to make it 4-0 before the break.

Emily Rutkowski pulled on back for Victory in the 76th minute with a low cross/shot from the left flank, but there was not enough time for Victory to fight their way back into this one.

Essendon Royals provided the slight shock result of the round with a 3-1 win over Avondale FC. Played out in Tarneit, Essendon were away from their traditional base, but still looked right at home. The Royals were the stronger team, and forced some excellent saves out of Brooke Bennett.

Back in the lineup, Kelli McGroarty eventually broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, and then Isabella Sewards added her second of the season in the 36th.

Hannah Wilkinson was fairly isolated in the first half, but her 68th minute finish gave Avondale a lifeline.

McGroarty converted a late penalty to bury any chance of a comeback by the more fancied visitors. Although the star striker delivered again for Essendon, they won this game in midfield, with Ayano Koizumi outstanding in a box-to-box role.

That result meant that Bulleen Lions had a chance to jump into the top four with a win against bottom placed Bentleigh Greens. Bulleen were at home, looking for their fourth win in a row, building form, so the visitors were facing a tough test.

Bentleigh did not shy away from the challenge, and tested Alyssa Dall Oste’ with some good early attempts on goal. But when the first goal went in, Bulleen only became more confident and dynamic.

Tiffany Eliadis got things started finishing off a cleverly worked free-kick routine, then Sarah Cain scored with a slightly fortunate attempt that dropped down from up high and seemed to disorientate the goalkeeper.

Maja Markovski scored from the penalty spot, and then again after meeting a deep cross by Catherine Renehan to bring up her fourth consecutive brace this season.

Markovski completed her hatrick with a powerful free-kick, and substitute Nia Salleh scored one of the best goals of the night with a direct solo run and excellent finish at pace.

Markovski’s left foot drive across the goalkeeper made it 7-0 in the 89th minute and that finally ended the scoring on a night where Bulleen boosted their goal difference and Bentleigh’s took another big hit.

It was the Markovski show on the highlights reel, but Bulleen played a very complete game. The midfield duo of Cain and Olivia Bomford were excellent. They moved the ball forward quickly or ran in into attack themselves, playing at a pace that Bentleigh could not match. Alana Cortellino was uncontainable out wide and Claudia Mihocic provided a strong defensive presence that allowed the home side to attack with confidence.

Next Saturday, Bulleen will host Preston at The Veneto Club as they look to secure their position at the top end of the table.

In appreciation of… Ayano Koizumi.

Who doesn’t love a quick, tough, skilful and slightly diminutive midfielder that can still boss a game?

Koizumi was in excellent form against Avondale, and her performance could help kick-start Essendon’s season. Avondale were most neutral’s favourites for this fixture, and even without Elise Kellond-Knight or Beattie Goad in the squad, they still had a very accomplished lineup.

Koizumi was essential for this win, she was able to retain possession under pressure, snap into tackles and keep the ball moving forward where Kelli McGroarty was lurking dangerously.

It was her best performance of this season, and vindicates the faith that Essendon have shown in the Japanese midfielder.

Koizumi has been with the club since  the 2023 season where they were seeking promotion from the VPLW. Essendon won the premiership that year, with Koizumi crucial to their success.

Koizumi did not get to enjoy much of Essendon’s first NPLW campaign in 2024. A serious knee injury ended her season after eight games and what followed was a long road back to now.

She spent last season in the VPLW, regaining fitness and returned to The Royals for 2026 where she has started every game with the exception of Round One.

There is a lot of talent at Essendon, and plenty of X-Factor in attack. Koizumi gives them control, and it looks as though she is getting back to her best. If she can continue to develop her midfield partnership with Bella Sewards, it looks like  pairing that could propel Essendon back into trophy contention.

But results aside, it is a pleasure to see Ayano Koizumi playing like she did on the weekend.

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City reclaim top spot with win over Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers 1-2 Melbourne City.

By Kieran Yap 23/3/26

Above: Melbourne City celebrate a goal against Western Sydney Wanderers. Photo: Melbourne City

Melbourne City have taken another step towards the premiership with a solid win at Wanderers Football Park. Leticia McKenna and Bryleeh Henry scored for the visitors, who managed to win despite being on the receiving end of a red card and a Talia Younis wonder-strike.

Melbourne City arrived in Sydney needing a win. They had lost to Adelaide United mid-week and the chasing pack have games in hand on the defending premiers. Holly McNamara came straight back into the squad the day after completing Matildas duty. Aideen Keane started on the bench with the front three consisting of Danella Butrus, Bryleeh Henry and Chinaza Uchendu.

Western Sydney have only pride to play for at this point of the season, but have looked good of late. A close loss to Melbourne Victory last week was a reminder that even though they sit near the bottom of the table, they are not a team to be taken lightly. City rotated, but did not rest the big guns.

The first major incident of the game was a surprising one. Uchendu was involved in a behind play incident with two Wanderers defenders, and was shown a straight red card. Before exiting the field she made her feelings clear to the taunting home fans and it looked to be advantage Wanderers.

If City considered this a setback, they did not show it. With almost the next attack, they took the lead. Leticia McKenna finishing well from inside the box after Dan Turner’s long cross eventually fell to her.

City doubled their lead before half time. McKenna was involved once again. Her cutback was met by the aggressive run of Henry who forced the ball home despite the presence of multiple Wanderers defenders.

Michael Matricciani managed the red cared well, pushing McKenna into a slightly more advanced role, to let her significant attacking abilities keep Wanderers on the back foot.

Aideen Keane was brought on at half time, her engine seen as an alternative to Butrus’s artistry.

Western Sydney eventually found a way back into the game, but it took something special. Talia Younis shot from 30 yards out to beat Melina Mieres with a spectacular, swerving drive. It will be a contender for goal of the year, and further solidifies the 17-year-old’s reputation as a rising star.

McKenna’s corner almost meant that City’s two-goal cushion was restored, but in the end, it was not needed, City held on for a crucial win that also qualifies them for next season’s Asian Champions League.

City end the round in top spot on the ladder, six points clear of Wellington and seven clear of Canberra United and Adelaide United. However, the story is far from over. The chasing pack still have games in hand, enough to catch them if they stumble in their final game against Newcastle Jets in a fortnight.

Teams: WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-3-3): Khamis, Cerne, Harrison, Hooks, Bennett, Chessari, Buchanan, Matos, Younis, Harada, Collins. Substitutes: Wang, Yuan, Ng Saad, Zumaya, Fazzari, Edwards.

Goals: Younis 53’

Melbourne City (4-3-3): Mieres, Roestbakken, Stott, Otto, Turner, McMahon, Davidson, Mckenna, Butrus, Henry, Uchendu. Substitutes: Barbieri, Apostolakis, Keane, Hughes, McNamara, Jackson.

Goals: Mckenna 34’ Henry 45’

Referee: Isabella Cooper

Attendance: 682

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