Impetus’ Rebecca Hall has been in Linköpingfor Arsenal’s Champions League qualifying campaignall week. For her final dispatch, shehears the conflicting emotions of players and coaches in both camps after Paris FC’s sensational win over the North London side (10/9/23).
Above: Joy for Paris FC after they send Arsenal crashing out of the Champions League on penalties. Photo: Paris FC Feminines.
Arsenal’s Champions League hopes are over at this early stage after Paris FC ran out winners in a penalty shoot-out after Jonas Eidevall’s side managed to come back from 2-0 defecit.
Putting on a physical display, Paris FC took the game by storm in the second half by scoring two goals within one minute of each other. Both goals came from Mathilde Bourdieu.
Above: Paris FC built a 2-0 lead before remaining composed to seal the win on penalties. Photo: Paris FC Feminines.
Arsenal fought back, as new signing, Alessia Russo, scored her first goal for the club. This was followed by Jennifer Beattie grabbing a last-gasp leveller in the 96th minute, which saw the game go to extra time. A goal was quickly produced by Louise Fleury in the 106th minute, but Russo answered in the 116th minute, taking the game to penalties. The tense game saw Paris FC win 4-2 against the English heavyweights.
After the game, Paris FC’s captain, Gaëtane Thiney, shared her joy “It’s amazing, football is amazing. I think we deserved it, we played very well and continued to believe in the victory. I am very happy, for me, but also the younger players… they will remember this all their life.”
Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall reflected on a painful outcome, saying: “It hurts a lot, because we had such a good experience in Europe last season, and we wanted to build on that.
“We also knew from the beginning this mini-tournament was going to be tough, for a number of reasons. One is the opposition; Paris is a good team. Another part is the really limited preparation time and playing on a 3G pitch, which we’re not really used to.
Above: Arsenal fought hard to comeback at the death from a 2-0 deficit. Photo: Arsenal Women.
“I think there are good things and bad things in our performance today, I think we created enough chances to win the game if we just look at it objectively. We put ourselves in a really difficult situation.”
Eidevall commended his squad saying: “The players showed great determination, heart, belief. I’m really proud of the players that we could fight our way back, twice in the game. And then it comes to penalty shootout outs, and it is very small margins”. He carried on to say that his main thoughts are to “take care of the players that are working so hard for the club”.
The Arsenal boss also urged for wariness, “when you get the wrong result in football, it can create a lot of noise. But the reality is we are neither a better or worse team than we were last night” and that it is “natural” for “not everything to work seamlessly in the beginning”.
Arsenal will now look to focus on domestic trophies. Before the Women’s Super League begins on 1st October, the North London side travel to Adidas in Germany for a training camp which Jonas Eidevall described as a “really important four-day period”. Prior to the international break, Arsenal will face Chelsea in a friendly.
Above: The 2023 Victorian NPLW premiers, South Melbourne. Photo: South Melbourne FC
South Melbourne 4-2 Bulleen Lions
South Melbourne has won the 2023 Victorian NPLW Grand Final after defeating the Bulleen Lions 4-2 in an entertaining game at The Home of the Matildas.
Bulleen entered this game as the premiers. Caitlin Friend’s team finished on top of the ladder after winning on the final day of the season to leapfrog Boroondara-Carey.
Ironically, it was due to South Melbourne winning their Round 22 match against The Eagles that secured Bulleen top spot. But that was the last favour that George Georgiadis’s team was willing to do this season.
Bulleen came in to this game without Tiffany Eliadis, Alex Natoli and Lia Muldeary from their best lineup. Semi-final hero Claudia Mihocic was also unavailable for selection.
South Melbourne were at nearly full strength, and welcomed Leticia Mckenna back into the starting lineup. The experienced youngster was a substitute in last weekends win over Boroondara and was busy early. She had the first shot on goal within 30 seconds.
South opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Tayla Christensen’s corner curled in to beat Gaby Garton directly. The goal felt eerily reminiscent of the way Bulleen conceded in last season’s decider to an Alana Cerne cross that turned into a shot.
Bulleen were able to equalise through Maja Markovski’s excellent goal. The in-form attacker was deployed on the wing and she was able to spread the ball wide to Beattie Goad, then finish off the cross herself in the 24th minute.
South retook the lead with another Olympico. This time it was Akeisha Sandhu from the opposite side who found the net directly from the corner.
Markovski almost equalised, but was denied by a miracle save from Miranda Templeman. The South Melbourne goalkeeper dove the wrong direction, but an outstretched leg deflected the ball clear after Markovski’s clever turn and shot.
Bulleen came out of the break and looked more in control of the game. Despite Alana Jancevski and Rosie Rodger creating moments of danger and Paige Zois stamping an influence on the midfield, they were unable to draw level.
South’s other captain and star recruit Danielle Wise effectively sealed the game in the 70th minute. Bulleen were in relative control of the game, but a turnover in midfield led to Danielle Wise being sprung free on the counter attack. She had some close misses throughout the night, but made no mistake on this occasion. Making it 3-1 and giving Bulleen a mountain to climb.
Substitue Zoe Lambi scored the fourth for South as Bulleen piled forward in search of two goals. The well taken finish capped off a sweeping end to end move.
Jancevski pulled back a consolation goal in injury time, but the match was soon over and South Melbourne are premiers once again.
This was a terrific achievement from South who invested heavily in their side this season. The signing of Wise was a no brainer after the striker won the Golden Boot in 2022, but the additions of Miesha Westland, Leticia Mckenna, Miranda Templeman and Lambi were masterstrokes.
It took some time for South to hit their straps this season, but they peaked that the right time. It was not a perfect year, but it was a well-managed campaign.
On the night itself, they played to their strengths. The defensive pairing of Leah Varley and Brianne Reed were excellent, and limited Jancevski’s influence as much as possible. She has been one of the leagues best strikers this season and proved impossible to keep quiet for the full match, but overall the defence did their job.
The midfield worked hard, and released the likes of Christensen and Wise quickly. They tried to put the depleted defence under pressure quickly and that earned them enough scoring chances to take home the trophy.
Bulleen will leave disappointed and wondering what might have been. They played well enough to draw level, but South simply took their chances better and when luck was a factor it was not in Bulleen’s favour.
There was a clear domino effect from their injuries and player availability. No Natoli or Mihocic meant that Tyla-Jay Vlajnic had to deputise at centre back. Beattie Goad was required at fullback and without Muldeary, there was no option to get either player forward very much.
They won the premiership, and it would have felt like a real injustice had they ended this season empty handed, but the Grand Final proved one challenge too many in a long season.
If there is a silver lining it is that the younger players like Rodger, Aroha Little and Jessica Young all look like future stars of the competition.
There is plenty to build on for Bulleen and will continue to attract experienced players to add to their impressive youth.
This day was all about South Melbourne though, and it was a hugely impressive win over a highly fancied opponent.
South set out to be champions again, and they have achieved that after missing finals entirely in 2022.
Congratulations South Melbourne, and all the teams who played in the 2023 Victorian NPLW season. It really was a terrific year of football. It has been a pleasure to cover this league, and watching it provided the privilege of seeing some of the best players in the country and the most promising rising stars.
In her debut article for Impetus, Emily Brown details eight docuseries or films to stream in order to cure the post-World Cup blues (9/9/23).
Above: England come together at the World Cup – there are plenty of opportunities to delve into the inside story of the Lionesses within Emily’s choices. Photo: Lionesses.
Now that the Women’s World Cup (WWC) has concluded, if like me and many other football fans, you need a remedy to cure the post-World Cup blues whilst in anticipation for the next season to start, here is a list of all the things you should watch to keep you entertained while you wait.
The list below is compiled of all things women’s football including many a nations journey to this year’s World Cup including a docuseries focusing on one of the two host nations of this year; Australia, insider access to the Women’s Super League (WSL) teams, the journey of the Lionesses and their successful Euro’s 2022, some history behind women’s football as a movement and in which direction it’s heading, as well as some feel-good ways to enjoy the magnificent game.
Above: YouTube Trailer Thumbnail featuring Hayley Raso, Mary Fowler, Sam Kerr, Steph Catley, and Katrina Gorry. Photo: Disney Australia & New Zealand.
‘Matildas: The World at Our Feet’
Disney+
Up first is a six-part docuseries by Disney observing the semi-finalist Australian team, the Matildas,through their journey to becoming hosts of the tournament and the battles they faced in preparation leading up to the tournament’s opening.
This series not only explores the difficulties needed to be overcome on the pitch but off the pitch also. It explores wider significant issues such as the remaining sexism and inequality women footballers and women in general face, as well as commenting on important topics such as the normalisation of motherhood as an elite athlete for example.
Overall, the series does a great job of connecting fans from around the world to the Matildas. It will make you both laugh and cryand want to stay connected to each player, rooting for them as individuals as well as the team (possibly even secretly when they’re the opposition to your own national team).
‘All Roads Lead Down Under’
FIFA+
Following on, we have yet another impressive docuseries that follows multiple national teams desperate to qualify for their World Cup spot, including those who narrowly made it to qualification and those who missed out entirely.
At times the series becomes quite emotional as you see how much qualification for the World Cup means to players after following their personal stories including where they came from, their journey up to now, and the troubles they faced along the way.
Countries included are Argentina, India, Thailand, England, Chile, Nigeria, Denmark, Trinidad, Tobago, Wales, and Tahiti. From the range of nations alone it is apparent that there will be many important comparisons to be made between developed and underdeveloped countries and how this affects their accessibility to football.
Again, this is another documentary exploring how women’s football is inevitably entwined with wider issues outside of just football including battles involving race, sexuality, social inequality, and other adversity.
Above: ‘Inside the Pride’ featuring the Lionesses Picture: England Football
‘Inside The Pride’ Collection and ‘Lionesses: Champions of Europe’ Documentary
YouTube and BBC iPlayer
The ‘Inside the Pride’ collection documents the different stages the Lionesses have gone through in the past couple of years, allowing England’s journey to victory to be seen from the inside. Watching this you’ll appreciate even more the strength the team have to pave the legacy they are leaving for future generations.
The collection consists of the Lionesses’ journey to the Euros to victory in bringing home the trophy, the journey leading up to the beginning of the World Cup and I would not be surprised if another documentary is added to this list now that England reached the 2023 World Cup final for the first time.
The BBC documentary ‘Lionesses: Champions of Europe’ specifically, relives England’s 2022 success, interviewing the people who made it all happen including manager Sarina Wiegman and captain Leah Williamson. This is one of many England documentaries to feast your eyes on if you are already missing seeing the Lionesses perform on the international stage and in their domestic clubs.
Above: Ashot of (from top left) Jess Carter, Leah Williamson, Alex Scott, Emma Hayes, and Simone Magill Picture: BBC
‘Alex Scott: The Future of Women’s Football
YouTube – The Women’s Football Archive
Alex Scott, ex-Arsenal and England defender turned pundit, who would have become a very familiar face (if not already) to those watching the BBC’s coverage of the World Cup, partners with the BBC again here to form this informative documentary.
Scott follows the growing popularity of women’s football pre-home Euros in England and discovers what this growth means for the future of women’s football and the younger generation. Scott does not just look at the impact stemming from the rise of women’s football in the UK but travels to places around the world observing the expansion of the game globally.
Interviews include a multitude of WSL players including many a Lioness, managers including Chelsea’s Emma Hayes, journalists, agents, former players, and many more integral figures involved in and outside the women’s game.
Overall, the documentary focusses on how the women’s game has grown with its record attendances and viewing figures as a result of its increased visibility, but even more so on how to sustain the current intense momentum of this growth and to make it ever lasting, ensuring a long-lasting impact.
However, it is important to note that the documentary does not neglect to look at the issues and negativity that have accompanied such positive change such as the disparity between top profile players and players who fall under the radar despite how hard-working and successful, they are just because they do not feature internationally for example.
Additionally, among many other issues, Scott addresses the unfortunate fact that, as it stands in the UK currently, young people belonging to the black community and young adults of other ethnic minorities are currently not getting the same opportunities as other adolescents in the UK due to various issues surrounding race and background. Scott opens eyes to why this is the case, addressing the problem of opportunities to become involved in football being taken away or restricted from certain groups of young people because of where they live. The documentary delves into the impact of this adversity, exploring the subsequent absence of a diverse pipeline to football in this country due to a lack of diversity in talent pathways at youth level.
Above: Advertisement for UEFA’s documentary series featuring Alexia Putellas, Jule Brand, Vivianne Miedema, Leah Williamson, Sveindis Jonsdottir and Sarah Zadrazil Photo: UEFA.tv
‘EQUALS’
UEFA.tv
A lot of the stars you would have seen take the international stage during the World Cup feature in this six-part documentary series from UEFA. The series interviews many sports stars from across the globe discussing a multitude of topics surrounding women’s football including the growth of the game and how to improve and sustain this growth (like that in Alex Scott’s documentary).
Many topics feature in these episodes with a different focus each episode. Overall though there is a very important message and makes an example of the direct impact of the growth of women’s football on not only young female footballers but for women in general (especially those in underdeveloped countries).
The series identifies the importance of what this growth means and how important it is for this growth to be sustained whilst women’s football is still connected to issues away from just football. A great one to watch after watching Alex Scott’s documentary to understand just why growth needs to be sustained and not just how.
Above: Cover Photo for series featuring Emma Hayes and Chelsea’s key female figures Picture: DAZN
‘One team, One Dream: This is Chelsea’
YouTube – DAZN UEFA Women’s Champions League
If, whilst watching the World Cup, you found yourself wanting to know more about the Woman’s Super League (WSL) in England, then this docuseries would be a good place to start.
The series follows Chelsea Women through their 2020-2021 season where you will witness country captains Sam Kerr and newly appointed England captain Millie Bright, as well as many other star international players that graced this year’s World Cup stage, in their domestic club environment. This could make it clearer to people of perhaps what a lot of international players have had to overcome in their footballing career to be able to be as successful as they are now.
As well as being enticed by the players you loved from this team whilst watching the World Cup, another reason to watch this docuseries is to learn more about the team’s manager, Emma Hayes. She is another person who you would possibly have started to recognise when watching ITV’s broadcast of the World Cup. Chelsea’s manager was awarded an OBE last year and the title of The Best FIFA Football Coach in 2021 as well as many only managerial-related honours.
Above: Thumbnail for the series featuring the title of the project Picture: Arsenal
‘Togetherness – An AWFC Documentary Series’
YouTube, Arsenal.com
The most recent addition to have included in this list is the newly released five-part documentary series following Arsenal Women’s Football Club’s (AWFC) 2022-23 season. After all the club endured this past season, it wasn’t uncommon for fans to believe that a film could have indeed been made following the ups and downs the club survived. This docuseries does the equivalent, taking us behind the scenes and giving exactly what fans have been asking for.
Hot topics that the docuseries explores includes the many tumultuous moments surrounding the ACL crisis that struck many of Arsenal’s key, high-profile players including Lioness’ captain and Arsenal’s defender Leah Williamson, fellow Lioness Beth Mead, Vivianne Miedema, and Laura Weinroither. All of whom were all set to play for their country in the World Cup just gone but unfortunately had to miss out due to their injury.
Additionally, fans will get insider access to the emotional exit of Jordan Nobbs from the club she grew up in, Champions League nights, and the unfortunate end to their narrowly missed run as well as the club’s first-ever sell-out of the Emirates Stadium hosting 60,000.
Above: Protagonists Jesminder Bhamra (Parminder Nagra) and Jules Paxton (Kiera Knightley) displayed in cover photo for the film Picture: Disney Plus
‘Bend it Like Beckham’
Disney Plus
If you fancy more of a calm and light-hearted way to enjoy women’s football, then this film could be for you. For most people it would probably be the case of re-watching this timeless classic whilst basking in the glory of a (hopefully) successful WWC.
This film perfectly demonstrates different people from a variety of backgrounds coming together and how as women the protagonists create new opportunities that may not have been accessible before, paving the way by themselves and for themselves, much like the footballers in real life. Hence why so many young girls and boys from marginalised communities are inspired by this classic, finding the representation of those like them displayed here.
Overall, this film will speak to your inner child, making you believe that realising the dreams you once thought were impossible to retain are not all that far off.
(To add to your viewing experience and to provoke thoughts on the significance of this film you could follow up by watching the BBC documentary ‘Bend it Like Beckham: 20 years On’ where Miriam Walker-Khan looks at the film’s impact on its audiences.)
Honourable Mentions:
‘Dare to Dream’ – a three parted documentary on YouTube exploring the history of the U.S Women’s Soccer Team.
‘This is Football’ – Episode 2: BELIEF’ – an episode on Prime Video
‘Wrighty’s Diary – FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 – 13 episodes on FIFA’s YouTube
Above: Central Coast Mariners’ new signing Shadeene Evans. Photo: Central Coast Mariners.
Central Coast Mariners announced the signing of forward Shadeene Evans for the upcoming A-League Women’s season.
The 22-year-old joins the club from current A-League Women’s champions Sydney FC, having spent the past 12 months with the side. Prior to this, Evans spent time at Adelaide United, as well as another stint with the Sky Blues.
Born in Borroloola in the Northern Territory, Evans was the first ever scholar from Impetus‘ charity partner John Moriarty Football as she joined up with the Football NSW Institute and Westfield Sports High as a 14-year-old on the recommendation of former Mariners Head Coach Alen Stajcic.
The forward got her first taste of A-League Women’s football after signing with Sydney FC on a scholarship in 2018, before making her league debut against Western Sydney in January 2019. She scored her first goal later that year against Melbourne Victory. Evans spent a season in South Australia where she appeared for Adelaide United on seven occasions, before returning for another season with the Sky Blues.
Having played under Mariners Assistant Coach Jake Stephenson at Northern Tigers for a number of seasons, Evans has been a regular performer in the NSW NPL Women’s First Grade competition.
The 22-year-old, who has featured for both the Under 17’s and Under 20’s Australian Youth squads, now joins the Central Coast Mariners in the hunt for a new challenge.
“I am super excited to be a Mariner this season. With the Central Coast returning into the A-League Women’s competition, it is a great chance to come into a new team and help to create a legacy with the club,” Evans said.
“I know a lot of the girls in the team which is nice as well. I’m excited to be able to work with Emily, play in front of the Mariners fans and get started this season.”
Central Coast Mariners Head Coach Emily Husband is excited to have the youngster on board, seeing her as an extremely valuable addition.
“Shay has already had a few seasons’ experience in the A-League competition, so I am super excited to have her with the Mariners this campaign. She brings great energy and demands that her teammates are always putting everything they have into anything,” she said.
“She is still very young and has good ability off both feet, so she will be a really good addition and forward for us this season.”
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Rebecca Hall is in Linköping for Impetus to cover Arsenal’s UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying campaign. Ahead of tomorrow’s final game with Paris FC, she reports from the Gunners’ pre-game media conference (8/9/23)
Above: Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall at today’s media conference. Photo: Rebecca Hall for Impetus.
With a place in the Champions League group stage at stake, Arsenal boss Jonas Eidevall is well aware of the significant threat posed by Paris FC tomorrow.
The Arsenal boss and his staff were at Paris’s first game – a 4-0 win over Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih to gain a better understanding of their opponents. “I think Paris are very good at the counterattack… and they score a number of situations from wide areas. Ultimately, Eidevall contemplated that “The game was quite representative of Paris’s strengths”.
The potential impact of new signing Alessia Russo was also commended by the Gunners boss, who said: “I think she has the potential and ability to play in a really high tempo, and in small spaces because of that. She has so many different qualities, and you see that on the training pitch as well. So, I think she will fit really well”.
Eidevall was also asked the question most football fans are desperate to know, concerning where Mary Earps will be this upcoming season. The boss remained calm with a face that gave nothing away.
Above: Lina Hurtig speaking to the media today. Photo: Rebecca Hall for Impetus.
He reconfirmed that Arsenal “remain active in the transfer market. There might be business to be done”. However, the Swede firmly stated “no comment on that specific individual”. So, the questions remain as rumours continue to swirl around Earps, Manchester United, and Arsenal.
The good news continues for Arsenal off the pitch as well. Not only was Beth Mead named on the bench for Wednesday’s Champions League fixture, but this week has also seen, England Captain, Leah Williamson take a big step in her ACL recovery.
Williamson is now running on the zero-gravity treadmill at the club’s London Colney training ground. On how players’ injury progress impacts the team’s morale, Eidevall confirmed it ”definitely gives positive momentum”, “I always think, and we see this with Beth (Mead) now, you need to find your rhythm again… but we’re so excited that each one is making progress and every day getting closer to go back on the pitch”.
Also speaking to the media today was Arsenal’s former Linköping star Lina Hurtig. The Swedish international was received by huge applause at her former club, and the cheers continued even after the game, in which she scored. Reflecting on the reception, Hurtig said, “It was great, I have a lot of great memories, it was a special feeling coming here, it kind of feels like home a bit.”
Arsenal only had a week of training ahead of their first game of the season as a full squad, Hurtig emphasised the club’s positive team environment and explained that their short time together has been “good” and “we’re starting to really connect again after this summer.”
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Above: Hannah Wilkinson in action for Melbourne City last season. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Melbourne City today announced the key re-signing of Football Ferns World Cup hero, Hannah Wilkinson.
Wilkinson returns to City for her third season with the Club, fresh from scoring for New Zealand at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, her third goal on that stage.
Wilkinson’s match-winning goal against Norway at Eden Park saw the Football Ferns register New Zealand’s first-ever World Cup win, Men’s or Women’s, in the opening match of the tournament.
The former City Player of the Year will be looking to build on her goalscoring form as the team strive to go one step further in search of silverware this season.
The NZ international was delighted to put pen to paper again: “Playing with City is my favourite kind of football and I get so much joy out of playing with this team.“We play a really nice brand of football here and it’s a great team to play as a striker in with so much service from the quality players further up the pitch.
“The World Cup was an absolute dream. Women’s football is only going to get bigger and bigger off the back of it which is great for the A-Leagues. There are so many young girls who are now interested in Women’s football which is great to see and we hope to have more support than ever this season.”
City head coach Dario Vidosic was thrilled at the news: “We are pleased to have Hannah back in City colours. We all saw how she performed on the world’s biggest stage, and we can’t wait to see her form continue into the upcoming season.
“We’re building a really strong force in attack and Hannah’s return will be important for that. She’s a footballer who has demonstrated her quality both in the league and internationally, and we’re looking forward to seeing more of that this season.”
Canberra United
Above: Mary Stanic-Floody, who has signed for Canberra United. Photo: Irish Independent.
Exciting young talent Mary Stanic-Floody has signed a one-year contract with Canberra United for the 2023/24 season as the team from the National Capital continue to add to the squad ahead of the new campaign.
The midfielder made a dozen appearances for Sydney FC in the Liberty A-League during the 2022/23 season, mostly as an impact substitute, and made her starting debut in the competition in a home match against Wellington Phoenix in Round 17.
A box-to-box talent, whose dynamism and enthusiasm characterise her game, Stanic-Floody is sure to thrive in the environment at McKellar Park.
“I am pleased to be able to add Mary to our roster for the forthcoming Liberty A-League season,” Canberra United Head Coach Njegosh Popovich commented.
“As a Young Matildas international, Mary is definitely one for the future, as well as the here and now. She has exceptional control, a tough streak which is vital for someone playing in that role, as well as an industry and graft that stands her above many of her peers.
“I have no doubt that our supporters will enjoy watching her all-action performances and that she will be a valuable addition to the playing group.”
Stanic-Floody claimed a winner’s medal from finishing top of the A-League Women final league standings last season, is looking forward to continuing her burgeoning career in green in Canberra.
“I am very much looking forward to arriving in Canberra and being a part of this great club for the new Liberty A-League season,” Stanic-Floody said.
“As a young footballer I am constantly learning, and I feel that Canberra is the best place for me to take that next step in my career. The club have a wonderful history of promoting young players and giving them the chance, and I am aiming to take mine once it comes.
“I have had experience of playing at McKellar Park in the blue of Sydney FC last season, and the atmosphere was superb. I can’t wait to pull on the green shirt in front of those supporters and have their backing and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so.”
Perth Glory
Above: Quinley Quezada in action for the Philippines against Morocco at the World Cup. Photo: Manila Bulletin.
Perth Glory today revealed that Philippines international attacking midfielder Quinley Quezada has joined the club’s A-League Women squad for the 2023/24 season.
The 26-year-old has been a key figure for the Philippines in recent years, helping them win the AFF Women’s Championship, reach the semi-finals of the AFC Asian Cup in 2022 and then qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time in the nation’s history.
At club level, meanwhile, she followed a stellar US collegiate career by playing in both Japan for JEF United Chiba and in Serbia with Red Star Belgrade.
The Philippines’ all-time record goalscorer is now looking forward to embarking upon a new stage of her football journey in the A-League.
“I’m very excited to be joining Perth Glory this season,” she said. “Aside from Perth being a beautiful community to live in, I’ve heard so many admirable things about the club and team.
“I followed the Women’s team last season and they made a great run in the league. For this upcoming season, I’m hoping the team will grow into a strong unit and be constantly gunning for that number one spot.
“Personally, I want to continue learning, improving my technical skills, and trying to be a leader within the team in any form that I can. I’m looking forward to joining the team and fighting for the championship!”
Glory Head Coach Alex Epakis, meanwhile, is looking forward to being reunited with a player he previously worked with during his time as part of the Philippines coaching staff earlier this year.
“Quinley is another player (along with fellow-new Glory recruit Jessica Cowart) whose character and football qualities I had the opportunity to witness first-hand during the Women’s World Cup,” he said.
“She is a senior member within the Philippines Women’s national team and has a strong level of versatility to her game across multiple attacking positions. I have been conscious of the style of play we want to have this season and having various attacking threats and types of players is an important part of that vision.
“Quinley will provide us with different attacking qualities and will certainly build a great combination with our other players in attack. She has a great demeanour and mindset and is a very focused individual who can bring the best out of her teammates off the field.”
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Above South Melbourne goalkeeper Miranda Templeman in her FV Emerging days. Photo Gold Leaf Creative.
Miranda Templeman has gone to a Youth World Cup, and provided Melbourne Victory with some of their best highlights of last season, but on Saturday afternoon, she will run out for South Melbourne in what may be her biggest game yet.
The 20 year old goalkeeper has been an important figure at one of Victoria’s biggest clubs. After missing the finals last season, the club invested heavily and wisely. Among the new recruits was the Templeman after an A-League season that delivered some breakout performances.
Templeman missed the opening rounds of the NPLW, but in the second half of the season, South gained momentum on their way to a third place finish and Grand Final appearance against Bulleen.
“We’ve had a really good run in,” she said to Impetus Football.
“There’s a real hunger amongst the group to achieve something great this year. We’ve had all the senior teams across the men’s and the women’s make it to the Grand Final this year so clearly there is something that the club is doing right and it’s just a really positive culture.
“We’ve had a few injury troubles towards the middle of the season, but when everyone was fit and raring to go we were able to generate some real momentum and at the right time as well.”
Templeman arrived at South Melbourne following some impressive performances for Melbourne Victory. Her penalty save against Sydney FC and a strong display against Adelaide helped make her an instant fan favourite despite spending the season as a backup to Casey Dumont.
The breakthrough performances were the culmination of a lifelong ambition from the Western Australian.
“I’m from Perth so Mackenzie Arnold was always a idol for me. To achieve the goal of starting an A-League game was amazing. Watching it back you can kind of, almost see me settle into the environment a bit more.
“Every situation I had last year was kind of a last-minute thing. I came on twice for injury. The starting game against Adelaide I only found out about 10 minutes before I got on the bus. That was definitely a challenging moment for me, but something I learned a lot from.
“Being able to get into that head space really quickly is something that any second keeper needs to develop. I really enjoyed that, hopefully I can keep progressing and earn more game time at that level.”
Miranda Templeman made plenty of big saves on her starting debut, but none bigger than this one 🤯 pic.twitter.com/31Zy1qUZKQ
At South Melbourne, she is the starting goalkeeper, and one of three new A-League recruits to the team along with Leticia Mckenna and Meisha Westland. Her role may have changed, but Templeman’s attitude remains the same.
“It’s definitely a different mindset.
“The thing that doesn’t change is that the team comes first.
“It’s a different role that I’m playing in each scenario, but ultimately the goal is do my job for the team. In NPL that’s taking on a lot more of a leadership role, coming in as one of the A-league players in that environment.
“I feel like I add a lot to the team that had already got a lot of talent. To be able to come in and fit into such as great culture at South is something that I really enjoyed.
“It’s also great for my development. I’m still young as a goalkeeper so game time is massively important for me, and that’s something that I’m able to obtain at NPL level compared to A-League where it’s more of a learning environment.
“Casey last year taught me so much. I’m just trying to absorb as much knowledge as I can, then on the weekend it’s about how much I can support the players that are starting.”
South Melbourne go into the Grand Final with the second best defensive record in the league. The centre back pairing of Leah Varley and Brianne Reed have been among the league’s best. It is a unit that Templeman has enjoyed being a part of and she can’t speak highly enough of them.
That defensive group was crucial to South Melbourne reaching the Grand Final. On the road to the decider, they faced the free-scoring Boroondara Eagles, who netted 61 times in the regular season.
They faced The Eagles twice in the last two games, with runaway Golden Boot winner Kurea Okino kept to rare goalless games. It was a sign of the organization and skill of the backline, and Templeman’s new Victory teammate was inevitably a challenge for the defence, but one they overcame.
I’m really looking forward to playing with her,” she says of Okino.
“She took the clean sweep at the Gold Medal night, it’s very well deserved.
“She was a focus going into the game, both the last regular game and the semi-final. We kind of talked about us as a defensive unit.
“Organizing and communication was a real big focus. The movement amongst the Boroondara forward line has been amazing all season.
“As a backline we were really effective in how we were passing players on and always communicating. To keep Okino goalless for two games of football is some feat. I feel like we did a good job of shutting her down, but I’m excited to see what she can do in an A-League environment this year.”
This weekend, they face another strong opponent. Bulleen are the only side that has conceded fewer goals than South, although the Danielle Wise led attack has fared slightly better. South Melbourne has scored 40 goals, compared to Bulleens 36.
It all makes for a very even contest. The last time these teams met in the league, it was a high quality 1-1 draw. South Melbourne conceded a late equaliser on that day. The performance has given them the confidence that they can win this Championship and provided fuel for revenge.
“I think we still have some hard feelings about the last-minute equaliser. We definitely have a score to settle, and I think the girls are really motivated to go into this game.”
As an added subplot, Templeman will be up against some of her current and former Victory teammates. Bulleen have Paige Zois, Maja Markovski and Beattie Goad among their ranks. But the A-League has not started yet, and that will all be put aside when the Grand Final kicks off.
“Obviously they’ve got a front line that I’m quite familiar with. I’ve played with a lot of the players before either at junior national team level or at Victory.
“It’s a team im quite familiar with, it’s got a lot of Victory players throughout. Theres definitely been a bit of banter during the week, but when it comes to Saturday its going to be a real battle.”
The Grand Final will take place at The Home of The Matildas at Latrobe’s Bundoora campus. South Melbourne are expected to be well supported there as always, and Bulleen’s fans will be out in force too.
The match itself has the potential to split Melbourne Victory supporters who have favourites on The Lions team, and their cult hero goalkeeper on the other.
Templeman says that the choice should be simple.
“Theres probably more (Victory players) in the Bulleen squad,” she laughs.
“But I think it’s a really exciting storyline to our season, if they want to barrack for the winning side, they should probably stick to the blue.”
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A disappointing league defeat against fellow Impetus partner club Ashford Town (Middx) saw AFC Wimbledon lose a league fixture for the first time in 374 days.
As Ellie Dorey picked up an injury to her shoulder in the game against QPR, manager Kevin Foster had to make one change to the starting line-up, with Sandra Soares Martins making her first competitive start for the side.
Ashford Town came firing out of the starting blocks, but it was Soares Martins who created the biggest issues on the pitch, continuously finding space between the defenders.
Aside from an offside goal by Soares Martins, Ashlee Hincks had the best chance of the first half when the Ashford keeper was forced to make an excellent save from a free kick.
At the start of the second half, captain Hannah Billingham was allowed lots of space on the left wing, firing off cross after cross into the box, but no Don was able to finish off the move.
10 minutes into the second half, Ashford striker, Impetus sponsored Ashley Cheatley broke through the Dons’ solid defensive line and fired off a volley which left goalkeeper Faye Baker with little chance to reach it.
Being 1-0 down, the Dons piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser. But much to the frustration of the players, they were unable to find their way past the Ashford keeper.
Foster made three changes, with Impetus sponsored Emma Plewa, Chloe Sampson, and Amy Taylor coming on. This gave the Dons additional energy going forward, but the Ashford defence left little room to get through.
With 85 minutes on the clock, Ashford scored a second. Wimbledon were unable to clear a free kick, and the ball was picked up just outside the box where a long-range effort from Brogan Moore eventually found its way into Baker’s top left corner.
After the game, Manager Foster said it was “a frustrating game yesterday as we weren’t at our best. Fair play to Ashford who came with a good game plan and scored two very good goals which made all the difference”
Player of the Match, Ashleigh Goddard, shared her views on the defeat: “We are disappointed with the result and it’s a feeling we don’t want to feel again. We will reflect on the game, learn from it, and use it as motivation to push forward and improve… we are already looking forward to our cup game on Sunday.”
Next up for AFC Wimbledon Women is a trip to Swindon Town and the County Ground for an FAWNL Cup preliminary round game this Sunday. League action will resume on 17 September, when Chesham United visits the War Memorial Sports Ground in Carshalton.
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Above: Two of Arsenal’s goalscorers Lina Hurtig (left), and Caitlin Foord (right) celebrate together. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Despite a 15-minute delay due to a fire evacuation, the game itself saw a fast-paced start from both sides. An over seven thousand strong crowd were equally involved as both sets of fans fought against each other to cheer their side to victory. The atmosphere for this early-stage Champions League clash certainly did not disappoint, and neither did the goals.
In the opening ten minutes, Arsenal’s Kim Little uncharacteristically missed a penalty and while the quality of Arsenal was undeniable, it was evident the team had had a very short time to fully integrate and prepare for the new season. Fifteen Gunners were selected for the World Cup, and eight of those were involved in the final and third-place match, meaning there were only two weeks between the games in Sydney and Sweden. The word rusty, came to mind, in the first half.
Many players made their debut for Arsenal in this match, including Alessia Russo, Cloe Lacasse, and Amanda Ilestedt. Philippines international, and former Australian international, Angela Beard made her debut just under twenty minutes into the game, coming on for Nellie Karlsson who suffered an early injury. This game also marked returns to Linköping for Stina Blackstenius, Lina Hurtig, and Frida L. Maanum who previously played for the Swedish club.
The stars were not just on the pitch either, cheering the sides on were Matildas stars Kyra-Cooney Cross and Clare Polkinghorne.
After a considerable amount of missed chances and impressive saves by Linköping keeper, Casja Andersson, the peppering shots of Kim Little and Caitlin Foord eventually proved fruitful. It was the Australian star, Foord, who secured Arsenal’s first goal, in the 53rd minute. But Arsenal did not leave it there, back on Swedish soil, Lina Hurtig, carried on the form of her World Cup exploits and scored in the 81st minute. The Swedish theme continued, in the eighty-ninth when Stina Blackstenius netted the ball in the back of the net to make it 3-0.
Reflecting after the game, Jonas Eidevall spoke about the success of the new summer signings, particularly, Cloe Lacasse, and noted the positive impact for the side, such as the fact that “she is quite similar with Beth Mead, so that provides us with good depth and quality on the right side.”
In the latter stages of last season, quality in depth was something Arsenal struggled with as they succumbed to numerous long-term injuries. Eidevall spoke about the importance of now being able to have “a starting 11, but also a finishing 11”. Despite this, Arsenal, arguably, lost a sense of rhythm when making a combined three substitutions.
As a result, there was a ten-minute period where Arsenal’s pressing was not as intense. Eidevall reflected on this and explained the difficulty of playing Linköping’s mid-block, “with so much width, and good passes”. “We got caught in a mid-block because our pressing wasn’t clear enough and we became a bit passive”.
Above: Alessia Russo in action on her Arsenal debut. Photo: Arsenal Women.
The Arsenal boss also revealed that the North London team are not done in the transfer market, explaining “We are still in the market for a right-back and maybe other positions as well. If we don’t find the right fit then we have three really competent full-backs – Noelle (Maritz), Katie McCabe, and Steph Catley”.
Eidevall commended Lina Hurtig’s goal stating, “I was happy with the goal but I was really happy with her performance. We have seen a really strong Lina returning from the World Cup. Last season it is impossible to judge her with all her injury problems and the inconsistency that created for her”. Hurtig returned to the Linköping pitch with rapturous applause, from both fan bases.
Ireland captain Katie McCabe, shared her joy about the result, telling reporters “It is a massive credit to the girls who came back a week ago, those girls that were in the final stages of the World Cup, and the massive amount of work the girls who came back earlier have done. It was a big, big team effort tonight. We knew it was going to be really difficult, playing away at a team who have played a couple of games already this season”.
The result was not the only positive news surrounding Katie McCabe on matchday as she has been nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. On the momentous occasion, McCabe shared her pride, “It’s a first for an Irish Womens player, so it’s a really nice accolade on a personal level but you can never achieve those things without your teammates”.
The humble captain continued to say “For me, it is always about the team and how we compete and win trophies together, that is why I play a team sport. I love picking up trophies with my teammates but it is always nice to be nominated for a Ballon d’Or – I think it’s the first time I’ve said that”, the player exclaimed with a grin.
McCabe finished the game at right back, to which she proclaimed “I play where I am put”. “With the injury to Laura (Weinroither), we have Noelle (Maritz) in that area and it may be an area Jonas is looking at, but you’d have to ask him” she jests. McCabe insists she “liked it”, “I like inverting and working and linking up with the quality we have in midfield. It’s another new position for me but one to enjoy”.
Matildas star Caitlin Foord talked of the importance of focusing on “getting the job done”, explaining “We knew it was gonna be a grind, and we knew they were gonna be a tough side… if it wasn’t pretty, it didn’t have to be. Obviously its gonna take time for everyone to settle in”.
Foord’s goal, the first of Arsenal’s three, felt important to settle the side. The Aussie agreed, describing the goal as a “massive relief. It takes some pressure off Once you get one in, you feel a bit more in control”. The number 19, also spoke of the new arrivals saying “They are settling in well… they are good additions to the team”.
Arsenal will now play Paris FC on Saturday and Linköping face the Ukrainian team Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih.
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Above: Ischia Brooking (right) was selected once more for the Junior Matildas squad. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Junior Matildas squad announced for U17 Asian Cup Qualifying
Junior Matildas’ head coach Rae Dower has named the final 23-player squad for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifying Round Two.
Australia’s U-17 Women’s National Team have been drawn in Group B with matches held from 16 – 24 September 2023 in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Following extensive scouting across Australia and a successful tour of the Korea Republic in June, Dower has selected a squad that combines 15 experienced campaigners from the Round One Qualifying with eight fresh faces set to make their international debuts.
Head Coach Rae Dower stated that the selected squad was inspired and primed to battle for a place at next year’s AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup.
“We’re so excited to head to Hanoi, off the back of the Matildas’ amazing performances at the World Cup, and take another step towards securing our own U-17 Women’s World Cup qualification,” Dower said.
“We know that our opponents will be just as determined to secure that coveted spot at the Asian Cup finals next year, so we are under no illusions that the three matches will be hotly contested in trying conditions. We want to continue to evolve our playing style and I believe that the team we have assembled are adaptable and flexible to combat the different opponents we will face.”
Underscoring the national strength of the squad, seven Member Federations are represented through the final 23 including A-League Women’s Sydney FC champion Indiana Dos Santos, new Western Sydney Wanderers FC recruit Talia Younis, new Brisbane Roar signing Grace Kuilamu and a host of West Australian talent.
The eight fresh faces are a result of the extensive scouting and preparation work undertaken by Football Australia Technical Staff between Round One and Round Two to unearth more promising footballers from this age group.
“The staff and I can’t believe the depth across this cohort; it is truly extraordinary. In all of my years coaching, this was one of the hardest selection decisions I’ve ever encountered,” Dower explained.
“There is such depth across the country with the outstanding qualities these players possess and again, massive kudos to our Member Federation Programs who are continuing to raise the bar for female player development.
Some players have taken the next step in their football journeys and made their first Australian national team, whilst others continue to impress at every opportunity.
“With a number of these players stepping into the A-League Women’s competition for the first time next month, it’s my hope that fans of football will get to see what my excitement is about with this Next Gen when they face off against each other in our own backyard week in, week out,” Dower concluded.
The Junior Matildas will open their group play at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Center against the Philippines on Wednesday, 20 September (7.00pm AEST). They will then face the Group B hosts Vietnam on Friday, 22 September (10.00pm AEST) before rounding out the Round 2 qualifiers against Bangladesh on Sunday, 24 September (7.00pm AEST). Broadcast details will follow nearer the time.
The top two nations at the completion of the round-robin matches will qualify for the U-17 Women’s Asian Cup to be held from 7 – 20 April 2024 in Indonesia.
Junior Matildas Squad:
Layla
ADAMS
Goalkeeper
Gold Coast United FC / Football Queensland
Ischia
BROOKING
Midfielder
Hyundai NTC / Football West
Ava
CARLSON
Forward
Central Coast Mariners FC / Football NSW
Madeleine
CASPERS
Midfielder
Football NSW Institute / Football NSW
Ruby
CUTHBERT
Defender
Hyundai NTC / Football West
Sienna
DALE
Forward
Manly United FC / Football NSW
Sian
DEWEY
Midfielder
Football South Australia NTC / Football South Australia
Indiana
DOS SANTOS
Midfielder
Football NSW Institute / Football NSW
Emma
DUNDAS
Midfielder
Emerging Jets / Northern NSW Football
Mikayla
DUONG
Midfielder
Football NSW Institute / Football NSW
Tiana
FULLER
Forward
Football NSW Institute / Football NSW
Georgia
GROIDIS
Forward
FV Emerging / Football Victoria
Isabela
HOYOS
Defender
Football Queensland-OAS / Football Queensland
Grace
KUILAMU
Forward
Football Queensland-OAS / Football Queensland
Shelby
MCMAHON
Midfielder
Gold Coast Knights FC / Football Queensland
Kiera
MEYERS
Midfielder
FV Emerging / Football Victoria
Chloe
PARKER
Defender
Football Queensland-OAS / Football Queensland
Georgia
RITCHIE
Goalkeeper
Canberra United Academy / Capital Football
Lillian
SKELLY
Forward
Football NSW Institute / Football NSW
Jessica
SKINNER
Goalkeeper
Hyundai NTC / Football West
Amelia
TARTAGLIA
Defender
FV Emerging / Football Victoria
Annabelle
YATES
Defender
FV Emerging / Football Victoria
Talia
YOUNIS
Midfielder
Western Sydney Wanderers FC / Football NSW
Sydney FC’s AFC Women’s Club Championship draw revealed
Above: Sydney FC celebrate their A-League Women win last season that qualified them for the AFC Women’s Club Championship. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Sydney FC have been drawn into Group B of the AFC Women’s Club Championship, an Invitational Tournament between eight of the best football teams in the Asian Federation.
They will be on the Uzbekistan side of the draw, with Group A taking place in Thailand.
The Sky Blues will take on Hyundai Steel Red Angels WFC (Korea Republic), FC Nasaf (Uzbekistan) and Bam Khatoom (Islamic Republic of Iran) from the 6th to the 12th oNovember.
Head Coach Ante Juric says he is excited about the competition.
“It’s going to be a great test for us and an excellent chance for our players to experience a different competition, against different opposition in a different country. We are excited, it will be challenging but it will give us a fantastic experience and I know our girls will give a very good account of themselves.”
Match details, along with broadcast information will be released in due course. Should Sydney FC top the group, the Final is expected to take place in May 2024 with the venue to be confirmed.
Jets announce signing of Copus-Brown
Above: Libby Copus-Brown (right) in action during her time with Western Sydney Wanderers. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Newcastle Jets announced on Thursday the signing of midfielder Libby Copus-Brown for the 2023/24 season.
Copus-Brown returns to the Jets after making her debut in 2013. Previously, the midfielder has also had stints with Lewes FC in England and the Western Sydney Wanderers. In total, Copus-Brown has made 38 appearances for the Jets, scoring two goals.
The Newcastle local is looking forward to returning to the club. “I’m excited to be coming home. Newcastle is such a special club to me. After a successful World Cup with the Matildas finishing in the top four in the tournament, I believe that we are heading the right way in this country in Women’s Football.
“We can achieve really great things this season here at the Jets and I’m super excited to come back and get started.”
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