Masterful Carpenter runs riot on WSL debut as Chelsea win

Chelsea 2 – 1 Manchester City

By Catherine MacKenzie (5/9/25)

Above: Ellie Carpenter celebrates. Photo: ChelseaFCW on X.

Chelsea and Manchester City ended last season in very different ways. Whilst Chelsea won the league unbeaten, City stumbled; an injury crisis stretching their squad too far. At one point without winger Lauren Hemp, captain Alex Greenwood, top scorer Bunny Shaw and electric forward Vivienne Miedema, City finished fourth, out of contention for the Champions League.

Ahead of the game, both teams’ England internationals were celebrated for their European Championship win – including the injured Lucy Bronze and Lauren James – and Chelsea’s club record signing Alyssa Thompson was presented to the crowd.

The teams

Both sides included new names in the starting eleven. For City, German midfielder Sydney Lohmann was given the nod whilst Chelsea gave Australian import Ellie Carpenter her first WSL start.

City gambled with a young backline including academy prospects Gracie Prior and Jade Rose, who started alongside Alex Greenwood at left back and Kerstin Casparij on the right.

Without James or Mayra Ramirez, Chelsea started Aggie Beever-Jones up top, with Maika Hamano and Wieke Kaptein behind her.

The action

In a physical start, City had the upper hand. Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was forced into an early save, and the London club did not escape their own half for the opening five minutes.

The momentum changed as the half progressed, with Chelsea being dangerous on the counter through the pace of Carpenter. City looked vulnerable from corners, and defensively fragile. Their young backline struggled and at times seemed to not know where to pass the ball.

Above: the physicality on show in the opening stages. Photo: ManCityWomen on X.

Yamashita saved well from a Sandy Baltimore shot at close range before Carpenter and Beever-Jones combined sublimely to put Chelsea ahead.

Carpenter ran riot against Alex Greenwood at left-back, beating her for pace and causing City constant problems with her speed. In midfield, City mastermind Yui Hasegawa was managed well – the minute she had the ball, three Chelsea players surrounded her.

Following half-time, City had a period of momentum defined by a number of chances for Hasegawa. Despite this, it was Chelsea who made it 2-0 as Wieke Kaptein got the better of Greenwood and her cross found Maika Hamano who shot home.

City did get their goal – an unfortunate own goal for Niamh Charles after Greenwood’s free into the box.

The final moments were marred by two injuries for City – a painful reminder of their troubles last season. First Greenwood was forced off with a suspected ankle injury, before Lily Murphy was down with a possible broken arm.

The referee did not stop play – to the aggravation of City fans – and it was down to Chelsea’s Hampton to check on Murphy.

Player of the match: Ellie Carpenter

Chelsea’s new right-back put in a faultless WSL debut, playing a pivotal role in setting up both goals.

Above: Ellie Carpenter against Manchester City. Photo: ChelseaFCW on X.
What this means for the teams

Chelsea start their season by continuing their WSL winning streak against a formidable opponent at home. They will take some confidence in keeping a stacked City attack largely at bay, as well as in the fact that the forward line seemed relatively symbiotic.

City will be disappointed not to leave London with a point. At times during the closing stages, City had a definite upper hand; particularly through Hasegawa who had a flurry of shots within a ten minute period. The injuries to Greenwood and Murphy are concerning – particularly as Greenwood has only recently returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines, and they have not recruited much in the way of a backup this summer.

There were also visible signs of frustration for City as their attack did not seem to have the same cohesion as their London counterparts, and they do not have much time to cement those relationships.

Chelsea next face Aston Villa away, whilst City welcome Brighton to the Joie Stadium.

Teams: CHELSEA (4-2-3-1): Hampton, Carpenter, Bjorn, Bright, Charles, Walsh, Kaptein, Hamano, Cuthbert, Baltimore, Beever-Jones. Substitutes: Peng, Buurman, Nusken, Macario, Reiten, Rytting Kaneryd, Kerr, Jean-Francois, Potter.

Scorers: Beever-Jones 31’, Hamano 54’.

MANCHESTER CITY (4-2-3-1): Yamashita, Casparij, Rose, Greenwood, Prior, Hasegawa, Lohmann, Murphy, Miedema, Hemp, Shaw. Substitutes: Keating, Layzell, Coombs, Weinroither, Ouahabi, Blinkilde Brown, Thomas, Lewis.

Scorer: Charles (OG) 70’.

Attendance: TBC

Referee: Emily Heaslip.

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Game Changers of the NPLW Vic: Deven Jackson

By Kieran Yap 6/9/25

Above: Deven Jackson with the Newcastle Jets. Photo: Newcastle Jets

Essendon Royals have had another strong season, after making the final in 2024 immediately after promotion, they have backed that up with another top four finish this season.

One of the big reasons for their impressive NPLW campaign is new signing, Deven Jackson. The New Zealand international has scored six goals from the wing, making an instant and lasting impact on the club.

Now at Melbourne City, Jackson will be unavailable for the NPLW finals, but she spoke to Impetus about why she joined Essendon after departing The Newcastle Jets.

“Seeing what they did last year and the success they achieved, being around them and seeing the unity as a group. That’s something that’s hard to come by.

“They’re such a good group of girls… it’s quite a fun environment which is key to success.

“It was kind of a no-brainer.”

Jackson adjusted instantly to the league. That was no surprise after a strong individual season with The Newcastle Jets. She scored twice against Preston Lions in her third Royals appearance and immediately looked like the right player to step in for injured captain Ava Groba.

Jackson is a fast, direct winger who is a clinical finisher. Once she is goal side, there is virtually no way to stop her, and Essendon have the players to provide excellent service. Jackson was joined by fellow A-League Women starters Grace Maher and Alana Cerne.

Those names added experience and firepower to a squad already boasting the talents of Airi Fujiwara, Sasha Coorey and an eight goal season from the deadly Emma Langley.  

After 18 games of the A-League Women, Jackson was still eager to take to the pitch in the Victorian NPLW

“The ALW season is quite long, and it’s quite intense, but I figured that I’m going to be trying to stay fit anyway. You’re still training and putting in the work, so why not play and be with your friends?

“It’s such a really, inclusive, supporting environment. I feel like our team just kind of clicked and I thankfully fit into that really seamlessly.”

In one of the most tightly contested NPLW Vic season’s in history, nobody could take their ladder position for granted. Essendon faced stiff competition from Box Hill United, Alamain, and South Melbourne for that fourth spot, and were chasing second on the table until the last two rounds.

The competitiveness and quality of the league meant that the Royals had to be at their best every week, and occasionally rely on help from other results. A six game winning streak began in early July which included wins over Bulleen and Alamain, and helped establish Essendon as title contenders once again.

Although the last two rounds did not yield the best performances, the top four spot was locked away by then through over a month of mini-finals. The experience of back to back must-win matches has prepared Essendon to potentially go one step farther than they did in 2024.

“We kind of had our backs to the wall abit and pressure was on us,” said Jackson.

“We were treating each game like a Grand Final. We had very clear expectations and a path of what we needed to do to get to where we wanted to be.

“We thrived in the high-pressure environment. The turning point was probably Preston away and we got a win and went on a little unbeaten streak.

“That created a really good vibe within the team and we were kind of ticking off what we needed to do to make the top four.

“We’ve done that hard part and now it’s the second part of that.

“That’s what finals is, its pressure and that’s why it’s a privilege to be there.

“We’ll have a game plan and go out and execute it, knowing what we’ve come from and being in that pressure environment we’re used to it, so I’m looking forward to Saturday and seeing what the girls do.”

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Preview: Arsenal v London City Lionesses

By Catherine MacKenzie (5/9/25)

Above: Arsenal last season. Photo: Jay Patel / SPP.

Arsenal kick off their 2025-26 WSL campaign this Saturday following major European success.

The Champions League win was followed by the European Championship, where Arsenal’s hefty England contingent followed up the UWCL with the Euros trophy.

The team that won the UWCL in May is largely unchanged, with the main departure being Switzerland international Lia Wälti. A major reinforcement has come in the form of club-record signing Olivia Smith from Liverpool; a tribute to Wälti and introduction for Smith is set for the Emirates on Saturday.

The Gunners’ foe on this occasion is an unknown entity – one that nobody entirely knows how to define. London City Lionesses were promoted from WSL2 after clinching the title last season against runners-up Birmingham City, and they have made a major splash in the summer transfer market.

Additions include Netherlands international Danielle van de Donk from Lyon; Katie Zelem and Alanna Kennedy from Angel City; Nikita Parris from Brighton, and Grace Geyoro from PSG.

Ahead of a typical match, coaches and technical staff work together to work out the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. With such a new starting eleven, it is difficult to know how to prepare. Arsenal boss Renée Slegers alluded to this pre-match:

“It’s new. Of course, they’ve had their season in the WSL 2. This is also new for them and it’s new for us. That’s part of the challenge for us on Saturday. There are a lot of unknowns.

Of course, we’ve seen them play last season and we have a good idea of who they are and what they are. At the end of the day, we haven’t played against this team because it’s very new with a lot of new players.

Just as many unknowns for me as for you, I guess. Of course, we’re very happy and it’s an exciting project. The more investment, the better to grow the women’s game.”

Arsenal will be hoping to pick up points – champions Chelsea start their campaign with a tough home duel against Manchester City, in a game that could see the reigning champions stumble. Having picked up the Champions League, the WSL – and toppling their London neighbours – will be Arsenal’s major ambition this season.

Pre-match, Slegers confirmed that barring Leah Williamson, she has a fully fit squad to work with, and the squad is feeling positive ahead of the season:

“I feel we’re in a really good place. I think as a group of staff and players, we’ve tried to tackle everything that we think will impact us in the season early. We set a foundation during pre-season and we’ve done a lot of good work together.“

Arsenal v London City Lionesses kicks off at 13:30 UK time. The match will be broadcast on BBC Sport in the UK and on Stan Sport in Australia.

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Game Changers of the NPL Victoria Finals: Tamar Levin

By Kieran Yap 5/9/25

Above: Tamar Levin for Heidelberg United. Photo: Adrian Geremia.

Tamar Levin made an impact right off the plane. In her first appearance in the Victorian NPLW, she scored a brace to announce herself as the latest Heidelberg United star. Now the midfielder looms as a not-so-secret weapon in the quest for the club’s second consecutive championship.

“I was really keen on coming to the club last year,” Levin said to Impetus.  

“But certain circumstances meant I couldn’t make it last year, so it was in the back of my mind to move here, seeing what they’ve achieved last year.

“They won the championship, which was great, and I just wanted to be a part of that.

“Obviously I knew a couple of the girls on the team, and just wanted to make the move to Melbourne, and play in the off-season down here, and it’s been great.”

For some players it takes time to adapt to a new city, league and teammates, but Levin joined fellow Queenslanders Mia Bailey and Sara O’Donoghue in becoming a key pler immediately on arrival.

Her talents were well known after scoring a goal of the season contender with Brisbane and impressing in the A-League Women. She has carried that form into the Victorian NPLW season with a series of dominant performances as The Warriors stormed to first place on the table with three games to spare.

Levin is a pure attacking midfielder. Able to score from range or time runs into the box and surprise the defence. Since that debut brace against Boroondara-Carey Eagles, she has continued to be one of the standout midfielders in the league, and added two more to her tally.

Levin is quick to credit her Heidelberg teammates the club for helping her settle so easily.

“From day one, I came in, and the girls were amazing. The coaching staff, as well were just really encouraging and positive.

“As soon as I went out there, I just had some fun, and ended up getting on the score sheet.

“I scored two goals in my first game. So yeah, it was a good start to the season for me.

“I think my role is similar to what I’ve played before. Obviously, as an attacking player, like, I want to create chances and make things happen in the final third.

“But obviously, like, doing whatever I can to help the team get the win is the most important for me.”

Levin has paired up with a former teammate from Queensland’s youth system, Sara O’Donogue. The Perth Glory playmaker was a key part of Heidelberg’s success in 2024 and Levin has relished the chance to play together again.

“I’ve known Sarah for a long time now.

“We’ve played together, like, in Brisbane, at QAS growing up. So, yeah, it’s been great having her in the midfield with me.”

Heidelberg won the league with 50 points, five clear of second placed Bulleen, and 12 ahead of this weekend’s opponents, Essendon Royals.

They did it in style too, scoring 52 times and only ending one game goalless (against fellow top four side Box Hill United.)

In the end, the Premiership was won without anybody in yellow and black having to kick a ball. A draw between Bulleen and South Melbourne meant that the title was headed to Olympic Park, with their own game postponed by weather, all that was left was to celebrate.

It was a moment Levin cherished, but she is still  hungry to add another trophy this season.

“It was such a good feeling, getting Premiership.

 “We were all watching that Boolean, vs. South Melbourne game, and that ended up as a draw, and then we found out we got Premiers.

“It was just so good to have that locked away.

“Personally, I haven’t been part of a premiership-winning team before.

“It was so special, lifting that with all the girls, the girls are amazing.”

Since top spot was sealed, Heidelberg have had to face both Bulleen Lions and this weeks opposition, Essendon Royals. Results were mixed but they ended the season on a high with a 3-0 win.

Injuries have been managed, players rested and The Warriors are set to make one more charge to the mountaintop.

They have a great team, united by hardship and success, and they have a goalscoring midfielder who could make all the difference in the knockout stage of the season.

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Young Matilda Milly Boughton goes Pro at Scottish Champions Hibs

By Kieran Yap & Gethin Thurlow (4/9/25)

Above: Boughton unveiled at Hibs’ Easter Road stadium Photo: hibernianfc.co.uk

As she signs her first professional contract, Australia and UK editors Kieran Yap and Gethin Thurlow combine to look at what Boughton can bring to Hibernian, and the role she could play.

Milly Broughton has been almost a mainstay in the Young Matildas setup since her inclusion for the 2024 Asian Cup.

The former Tottenham and Arsenal youth team product is a versatile, dangerous forward who can play anywhere across a front three. Broughton is a composed finisher, a natural forward who’s positioning and speed around the penalty box can help her make the most of chances.

While Broughton has shown a lot of promise and is not short of determination, she has limited experience at senior club level. Regular competitive football is now an essential step in her development.

This is something Hibernian can give her. While the SWPL is a good, competitive level, it is an easier jump from U-21’s level than going straight up to the WSL is.

Despite Boughton’s attacking exploits, Hibs named the Aussie as a midfielder when introducing her. This does make sense given the gap in the team since attacking midfielder Michaela McAlonie departed for Southampton.

Within the 4-2-3-1 system employed by Hibs, that number 10 role is more connected to the front three than with the two defensive midfielders behind, so Boughton’s skills would still be useful in that position.

Young attacking forwards have been pretty much the only thing targeted in the transfer window by Grant Scott, so she could also be seen as added competition/depth to those attacking areas alongside fellow youngsters Tiree Burchill and Hannah Jordan.

Celtic were absolutely decimated by their Champions League qualification last year, so Hibs will be clearly aiming to avoid this. While their Champions league dream is over, the Europa Cup still presents as many midweek games as long as they keep progressing, so being able to rotate and manage the workload of those attacking players will be crucial.

Whether we see Boughton on the wing or in the midfield, she will be adding the final ingredient – regular minutes, to her development. Her progress with Hibs is worth following for any Matilda fans as she will look to breakthrough even more at national level.

This is very much a mutually beneficial transfer. Boughton gets the playing time she needs, and Hibs get her talent, which they hope can help them to another SWPL title and to cause some upsets in the Europa Cup.

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Game Changers of the NPL Victoria Finals: Sofia Sakalis

By Kieran Yap 4/9/2025

Above: Sofia Sakalis during the ASEAN Championships with Australia U23’s Photo: Football Australia

Sofia Sakalis has had a year to remember and is hoping to add even more highlights. The Box Hill United attacker has been in dynamic form this season, that is nothing new. But she now has an ASEAN Cup winner medal with Australia’s U23’s and will be a key player in Box Hill United’s push for a Grand Final appearance.

A product of Box Hill’s youth system and an almost eight-year veteran of the A-League Women, Sakalis has been in career best form of late. Her ability to create chaos and panic in as defence with either a clever pass, or surging run have helped her childhood club to third place on the table and a meeting with Bulleen Lions on Saturday afternoon.

That form also earned the recognition of the national team setup and a call up to the U23 squad to travel to Vietnam.

That tournament win, the first by an Australian side since 2008, could be the ideal preparation for NPLW finals.

Close wins in the semi final against Vietnam and the 1-0 win over Myanmar in the final have reinforced an already fierce winning mentality.

“That feeling of the semi-final and then the final, it’s kind of do or die,” Sakalis said to Impetus.

 “I think that’s the kind of mentality that we’re going to need to have in the semi-final as well, so it’s definitely going to help me to, try and get the girls into that kind of mind set.

“Obviously Box Hill haven’t been in finals For a while, so it’s something that we’re going to really have to instil before the game, and make sure we just leave it all out there.”

Box Hill have always been fun to watch, but something has felt different this season. There is as ruthlessness to how they attack, and they have only lost five times this season.

This finals appearance has been hard earned but well deserved by a club that has trusted in local stars as well as attracted decisive recruits. Although the hard work is just beginning, Sakalis is proud of what her club had achieved so far.  

“I’ve been very invested in the growth of Box Hill over the years, and I feel like we’ve been creeping up each year, and we’ve been closer and closer, and now this season to finally making the finals feels so special.

“Especially for myself, being a junior of the club, and being there the last couple of seasons, and just think we’ve got the right mix this season with the players we’ve brought in, with the experience of player like ‘Mini’ Pollicina now, and our internationals have been fantastic, as well as our coaching staff.

“It’s just been a great mix, and it’s really exciting to be able to see what we can do now in the finals.”

Rhianna Pollcina and Sakalis are now in their second season together and it has been one of the most dangerous and entertaining partnerships in the NPLW. They have similar skillsets, but work in tandem to create chances for each other and their teammates.

“It’s been great playing with her,” Sakalis says of the Box Hill number 10.

“She’s probably one of the best players I’ve played with.

“Just the way she thinks, and obviously her experience and her expertise coming from that many seasons at Melbourne City as well.

“It’s also great to learn off her, but also just to be able to connect like that on the field and try and produce something that’s special and, help our team as well.

“It’s definitely been exciting, and I always look forward to playing with her.”

Although Pollicina and Sakalis have led the way alongside the likes of Josephine Aulicino, Box Hill’s rising stars have been valuable contributors to this benchmark season.

Teenagers Sienna Techera and Georgia Karaparides have both scored vital and spectacular goals, with Techera’s Round 22 effort a late contender for goal of the season.

“They’ve all been amazing,” Sakalis says of her teammates.

“I just feel like this season, we just have, like, the perfect mix of, that A-League experience and younger talents. I think Georgia has been fantastic. She’s a very raw talent. Same with Siena.

“They’re both great talents, and they’ve also been at Box Hill for a while, and also been part of, like, the junior ranks.

“So it kind of just shows as well what Box Hill has been able to produce.

“Then there’s Josie (Aulucino.)

“I think Katie (Cox) has been amazing too, so both of them have been pivotal, and they’ve obviously been there from the start of the season.

“It’s just been a great mix of players, and I think it’s exciting what we’ve achieved, and see what more we can do.”

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Preview: Is this the year Everton start to make a climb?

Above: Katja Snoeijs celebrates her goal that opened the scoring at Anfield in the second WSL Merseyside Derby of 2024/25. Photo: Everton FC.

By Alyce Collett (3/9/25)

In the past few years it has not always been easy to be an Everton fan. The Toffees have never been among the title contenders and have consistently been around the middle of the pack.

Season 2024/25 was another one of those types of seasons.

It was not an easy start to the season for the Toffees, only picking up three points from their first seven matches of the season and not picking up a win until the first Merseyside Derby of the season two months into the season.

But just after that match against Liverpool, a defining moment for the season came for the club.

After being in the works for months, the Fredkin Group completed their takeover of the club in mid December, finally giving some financial security to the club, and from a WSL perspective, it allowed coach Brian Sorenson to really attack the January transfer. And attack that window Everton certainly did, bringing in three players on loan deals (Martina Fernandez, Emma Watson and Louna Ribadeira) and three players in on permanent deals (Kelly Gago, Hayley Ladd and Maren Mjelde).

This could not have come at a better time for Everton, who at the time were down in 12th and very much in the relegation battle. They already had two players out for the season with ACL injuries, and this was before captain Megan Finnigan went down with an ACL injury of her own in late January.

As you take a look back at Everton’s stats from this season, the difference between before the take over and after the take over is quite obvious.

Although some stats did not change too much, the important ones when it comes to scoring – shots on target, saves and score – all improved significantly after Everton were able to bring in some more players.

The players used stat is an interesting one, because although the averages show one story, in reality it was completely different.

Before the takeover, Everton had a match day squad that was equal to or larger than their opponents’ one three out of the eight matches. After the takeover, that number rose to nine of the 14 matches.

This increase in financial stability has also allowed the Toffees to have a pretty productive summer transfer window too, locking down several of their January transfers – including Kelly Gago and Martina Fernandez – and bring in even more new faces, including English international Katie Robinson and Philippines international Maz Pacheco.

Above: Katie Robinson (left) and Maz Pacheco (right) were two of the bigger name signings of Everton’s busy summer signing period. Photo: via Everton FC

Another one of Everton’s inclusions in the summer transfer window was young star Ruby Mace, who moves north from Leicester City.

Everton coach Brian Sorenson spoke very highly of Mace ahead of the season getting underway, saying that “I think she has a great future in front of her and that’s also what we identified.

“Despite her age, she actually has a lot of experience in the WSL. I think she has the same amount of games as Grace Clinton, who has two years more in the league but Ruby already is in on a similar level…

“and she also wanted to come because we weren’t the only team who wanted Ruby me and she chose us because of the project and the playing style. She could see the potential in the team but also in her personal development.”

Above: Ruby Mace is one new face that has already drawn plenty of praise from Everton coach Brian Sorenson. Photo: via Everton FC

Although these are not the big names that some of the other teams have made, that is not a reason for Everton fans to not be excited about how the new season may go for their team.

As the back end of last season showed, having squad depth allowed cohesion in the Everton side to grow, and although there were only four wins from 12 matches, the losses were significantly tighter than they had been earlier in the year. For example, the first time Everton played Chelsea last season the score was 5-0 in Chelsea’s favour, whereas second time round the margin was only a single goal.

Now that they do have that solid foundation in terms of squad size, Sorenson said that one of the biggest goals for his team this season is ”having consistency and stability in the team because we haven’t had that for three years.

“I think for me, I don’t think the hardest thing is to get a good result at against the top four, potentially a top five with how London City is spending.

“So I think we can always make a plan, get everything right and then we can beat a City, or we can take a point from Arsenal and so on. But the harder thing is to be consistent against the teams around us – to win against Liverpool on the weekend, to win against Brighton, to win against Villa, Leicester, West Ham and so on.”

This weekend is a great chance for Everton to get their season off to the best start in a number of years. They have not won their opening weekend fixture in the WSL since they beat Bristol City on the opening weekend of the 2020/21 season, and this weekend sees Everton take on Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby, a team the Toffees have lost too since November 2019.

With all of this in mind, Everton will be an interesting side to watch this season. It will likely take some time for them to truly compete with the Arsenals and the Chelseas of the competition, but with a solid foundation in place to build on, there is no reason that Everton cannot be challenging around the fourth or fifth place mark on the WSL ladder.

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Game Changers of the NPL Victoria finals: Paige Zois

By Kieran Yap 3/9/25

Above: Paige Zois. Photo: Bulleen Lions

Paige Zois is back to her best. After a long term injury, the midfielder has bounced back with goals, assists and brought her famous passing range to full effect. Bulleen Lions are playing their best football at the right time of the season, and Zois in the centre has been a huge factor.

“Going through that whole injury process was really difficult,” Zois said to Impetus.

“I feel like I didn’t really understand how hard rehab a rehab process was.”

Zois was injured in a collision against Heidelberg United last season, which cut short her NPLW campaign and limited her availability with Melbourne Victory. After months on the sidelines she made her return in April to wide celebrations from fans.

It was a long road back, but in some ways, it makes playing finals football with Bulleen all the more rewarding.

“I think it’s kind of made me appreciate, where I am now, and made me appreciate how, exciting the opportunity to play in a semi-final is.”

From the outside, it has looked like she has not missed a beat. Zois’s familiar defence splitting passing and controlled midfield presence was a big factor in some of Bulleen’s tougher games this season. An outstanding gritty performance amid freezing, hailing conditions in the Nike FC Cup quarter final went hand in hand with a spectacular free kick to score  against FV Academy.

For Zois, it has been the result of a lot of hard work behind the scenes.  

“It’s taken me, like, I think since I was cleared at Victory until this last few weeks to really feel like I’m getting back into the groove of it.

“I think it’s taken me a bit, but, (Bulleen coach) Caitlin Friend has been really helpful, and all my teammates have been so great and supportive that it’s helped make it a lot easier.

“I think I’ve learned that, things just take time, and you have to stick it through and work through things, and it’ll eventually get there.

“But (I have) greater appreciation for everyone else who’s gone through a really difficult injury, because it’s not easy.”

Zois’s best form has coincided with Bulleen’s. Although the 2024 premiers have rarely been out of the top four this season, it has taken some time for them to really unlock the best on field combinations in a star studded but still young squad .

The return of Tiffany Eliadis, the growing stature of Nia Salleh and the explosiveness of Alana Cortellino and Danella Butrus on the wings have all been factors.

In midfield, the combination of Zois and Sarah Cain has looked like one of the league’s best duos.

“I played with her, I think, in NTC when we were super young, and she was a little bit older than me, so I kind of, like, looked up to her, even back then.

“I absolutely love playing with her. I think she could be, like, one of my favorite, midfield partnerships that I’ve had.

“We talk about, like, being on a rope together, because, I feel like she just, like, understands what I need, and I understand what she needs in a game.

“I think she’s just one of those players that, like, make you better as well. And I’m just, like, really happy that I got to create this partnership with her, and it’s been really fun so far.

“It came really naturally, and I think that was also thanks to Caity as well, because she, like, kind of lets you have a bit of freedom on the field, and, like, do what, you know, comes natural to you.

“I think when I’ve been at Victory, like, I’ve been, like, predominantly, like, a number six that does a lot of defensive duties, but it’s nice coming here to Bulleen and be given some freedom to, you know, roam up the field knowing that Sarah has my back, and vice versa.”

Cain and Zois form a midfield partnership that look comfortable receiving the ball anywhere on the pitch and both have the experience to know what the game needs at any given time. They can both keep the ball on the deck or send long balls to the wings before the defence has time to react. If either has time to shoot, it spells trouble for goalkeepers.

What has long set Zois apart from most other midfielders is her ability to put the ball exactly where she wants it.

That gives Bulleen an enviable weapon from set pieces, and with four assists in the last two games, she could easily be the difference in a knockout game.

Even if the midfield rhythm can be disrupted, at some point she will get a chance to send in a corner or free kick. If you are an opposition defender all you can really do is hope.

She is modest about her deal-ball prowess and quick to give credit to her teammates for their finishing and arial ability.

“I think that we’ve got some just really dominant girls on the team.

“I try my best to get it in some sort of space that they’re in, so they can kind of do their job.

“Honestly, I think it’s more down to them.

“I just whip it in and then they’re getting on the end of it.”

It is an attribute well known across the league and one honed through years of practice.

“In my house, when I was younger, we had a little room, and I had soccer goals, in the room and every day, I would go and play in there and continuously curl the ball into a little target that I had.”

Bulleen enter finals after a 4-1 win over newly crowned premiers Heidelberg United and an 8-0 thrashing of Brunswick Juventus. Those impressive results are the latest in a 12 game undefeated streak that featured only two draws.

In most seasons that sort of form would have been enough to secure a third consecutive premiership, but knockout games are different and they face an equally dangerous Box Hill United, themselves fresh off a seven goal game against Preston in Round 22.

As the business end of the season approaches, the intensity of training has ramped up at The Veneto Club.

“The (training) games are so difficult and intense, and it really, tests you, I guess, and I think that puts us in  good shape for the weekend.

“I don’t want to speak too soon. I hope that we continue the form that we’ve been generating, and I’m really looking forward to this week.

“It’s going to be a really challenging game

“Playing anyone that’s finished in the top four will be challenging, so it’ll be fun and exciting, but hopefully we can continue the form that we’re in.

“Obviously both teams can score a lot of goals, so maybe it’ll be, like, a battle of who can keep a clean sheet and defend really well. Finals are just different though.  

“It’s hard to really predict what’s going to happen.

“It’s going to be really important for some of the older girls, like myself and Tiff and Sarah, to kind of maybe lead by example. because there are going to be some nerves.

“I’ve been there where I’ve been absolutely terrified, but I think coming in this week, I’m more just excited at the opportunity to play in a final.

“They’re the best type of games to play in.  I’m just coming at it from that point of view.”

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Preview: A new era for Manchester City begins

By Eloise Smallbone and Rachel Gore (02/09/2025)

Above: Manchester City’s squad during preseason. Photo: ManCityWomen on X.

As the start of the new season draws near, one of the teams hoping for a strong start to a new era is Manchester City. With a new head coach, new players and major returns from injury, City are looking to improve on a disappointing 2024-25. 

A new manager leads the side

This season Manchester City Women are welcoming a new Head Coach, Andrée Jeglertz. From Sweden, Jeglertz has made the move to the Manchester from the Denmark national team, having a range of experience in both club and international football. 

Above: Jeglertz at the Joie Stadium. Photo: Manchester City website.

As a former player, Jeglertz knows what it’s like to be on the pitch. Beyond this, he has a wealth of experience in managerial positions. 

Jeglertz has worked with numerous teams in the Swedish domestic leagues with his five year stint at Eskilstuna United being particularly impressive. He improved the side’s competitiveness and helped the club to reach the top tier of Swedish women’s football. Following his role at Eskilstuna, Jeglertz moved to Goteborg FC.

He also has experience working in international football – taking Denmark to this summer’s European Championships, where they failed to escape the group stage.

At City, Jeglertz will be pushing to finish in at least the top 3 of the WSL. He will do so by employing his usual tactics; ensuring a solid defence is present, keeping formations flexible, and focusing on the development of the players in his squad.

City’s new signings

Some of the players that Jeglertz will be coaching are new signings; this summer, Manchester City have signed numerous new players. 

The most notable of these signings is that of Sydney Lohmann; a midfielder who has signed a 3-year deal with City after spending 9 years at Bayern Munich. 

Lohmann is a technical player who dictates play by making strong passes from the defence to the attacking forwards. Lohmann knows how to win, she has four Bundesliga titles to her name and won a cup double in her final season in Germany. The baller has also played in high pressure international matches for Germany so will be ready to step up for City and deliver in crucial moments.

Laura Wienroither’s permanent transfer to the club has been much anticipated by City and Arsenal fans alike. Wienroither came to City on loan last season and is an experienced defender who is known for her knowledge of the game. 

City have already benefited from Wienroither’s presence on the pitch, particularly from the ways in which she stops incredibly technical and fast-paced wingers.

Playing for her former club, Arsenal, and internationally for Austria has led her to become accustomed to high pressure situations. This will be crucial as she will be key in City’s fight for Cup and League titles.

Above: Laura Wienroither signs for Man City. Photo: Manchester City Website.

Eartha Cumings is a goalkeeper moving over to the WSL from the Swedish league where she played with FC Rosengård. Cumings will join City’s existing goalkeeper rotation and will wear number 1. As a player, she has quick reflexes and great distribution allowing her to control a game from her place in the goal. 

As well as helping to keep City in games, Cumings will provoke competition amongst City’s existing goalkeepers, who are Eve Annets, Khiara Keating, Katie Startup and Ayaka Yamashita. This will further raise the standard of all keepers at the club.

Iman Beney will also be joining the WSL from a different league, she’s making the move from the Switzerland side, Young Boys. 

As a forward, Beney threatens defenders and provides assists alike as she breaks through strong defensive lines and creates goal opportunities. Beney often plays down the wing so is a necessity addition to City’s squad after the announcement that Chloe Kelly has made a permanent move to Arsenal.

The youngest, and first, of City’s signings during this transfer window is Jade Rose. She is moving from Harvard Crimson in the states and will join City’s backline. 

Crimson can play as a full-back or as a central defender. This versatility will only benefit City as it will allow for tactics to evolve throughout games. 

International success within the team

There have been several of Manchester City’s squad that have achieved international success over the summer. Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp, Jess Park and Khiara Keating were all part of the Lionesses squad who won Euro 2025, whilst Kerolin won the 2025 Copa America with Brazil in Ecuador during the summer too. The club celebrated the triumphant members of the squad before their men’s team’s fixture against Tottenham Hotspur. 

Above: City’s Euro 2025 winners. Photo: ManCityWomen on X.

Five of Andrée Jeglertz’s side achieving major international tournament success brings important experience to the team, and could be influential in their drive for trophies this season. Each of the players also demonstrated resilience under pressure, which could also be a key contributor to their success this season. 

Greenwood and Hemp stood out in the Euros, with both players starting for Sarina Wiegman’s side in the final against Spain, and Greenwood scoring one of the penalties in the final shootout. 

Kerolin also played a crucial part in her country’s success, as she scored a hat-trick in their group stage win against Bolivia and also played in their victory over Columbia. This experience of success could be a difference for Manchester City this season, with the squad undoubtedly being hungry to extend their success to club level too.

Developing from their performance in the 2024/25 season

The 2024/25 season was disappointing for Manchester City, particularly after they came second in the WSL after only losing out on goal difference to Chelsea. They suffered with many injuries, as well as a change of manager during the season, and finished fourth in the WSL. They also reached the FA Cup semi-finals but lost out to Manchester United and were runners-up in the League Cup.

They will be hoping that with Hemp, Greenwood, Vivianne Miedema and Khadija Shaw being able to play again, they can make significant improvements in all competitions this season. They have also brought in reinforcements over the summer with signings, and this increased squad depth should help them challenge this season. With managerial stability too, they could be in the running for the FA Cup or the League Cup, and may challenge their rivals in the WSL more than they did last season. 

Despite not finishing in a position to qualify for the Champions League being disappointing, it could also have its benefits for the squad this season, leaving them in a better position to challenge Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United in domestic competitions. 

Manchester City’s season kicks off on Friday 5th September. They will be hoping to secure points from a difficult away fixture, as they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

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NPLW Vic R22: Goals galore in the final round of the season

By Kieran Yap 2/9/25

Above: Heidelberg United celebrate one of their three goals. Photo: Isabelle Campbell.

The regular season of the NPLW Vic has been completed. The final four has been decided, there were goals galore in the last weekend and we say goodbye to FV Academy’s senior team. 

Box Hill had the most to gain from this round. A win against Preston Lions would consolidate third place and allow them to avoid premiers Heidelberg United in the semi final. 

Preston have not had the easiest season but were eager to deliver a strong performance to farewell their departing Grand Final coach Dan Foden. 

Ellie La Monte-Whyte gave Preston the best possible start, a clever first touch, a better second one and a decisive third gave the Lions the opening goal in the fourth minute. That lead only lasted a few minutes before a freak goal restored parity. A bad defensive turnover gave Sofia Sakalis the chance to set up Maho Murakami for a long range strike. 

The shot was blocked but somehow bounced and spun over the goalkeeper’s head for a remarkable goal.

That goal opened the floodgates and the scoring did not stop for the rest of the afternoon. Sakalis won the ball back in midfield and the ball worked its way wide to Olivia Ellis. Her cross evaded everyone to fly into the back of the net and give Box Hill the lead.

Preston drew level through a stunning solo effort from Emily Roach. The midfielder created space for herself before unleashing a 30 yard missile over the head of the Box Hill goalkeeper. 

Josephine Aulicono’s long run from defence created Box Hill’s third. She took off from fullback and cut into midfield. Sakalis provided the final ball and Carina Rossi finished confidently to restore Box Hill’s lead. 

The combination of Sakalis and Rhianna Pollicina has been a key reason for Box Hill’s surge up the table this season and after supplying two, Sakalis scored one for herself. She turned into space at the edge of the box and with the Preston defence retreating slightly, she shot from distance to make it 4-2. 

Box Hill’s fifth arrive almost immediately after. Pollicina’s cross was hammered home by Elwen Parbery with a brilliant half-volley. With Box Hill’s attack now competing for goal of the season contender Sienna Techera was next to nominate herself. She cut inside from the right wing and sent a curling effort into the far top corner. 

Box Hill’s seventh and final of the day arrived in the 85th minute. Auicino rounded the goalkeeper and provided Pollicina with an easy finish in the six yard box. The result was the latest in a nine-game winning steak from Box Hill and an ominous warning for their finals rivals. They are a team in form and playing their best football at the right time of year, but comparing Round 25 results, anything they can do, Bulleen set out to do better. 

Around The Grounds:

By the time most people had found their seat and nagivated the maze caused by a Veneto Club Salami Fesitval, Bulleen were already 2-0 up against Brunswick Juventus. 

Danella Butrus scored the first from lose range and then earned a penalty minutes later for Tiffany Eliadis to score from. 

After being a late withdrawl from last week’s game against Heidelberg, Butrus looked like she was on a mission to make up for lost time and potential Gold Medal votes. 

The winger scored a trademark goal, cutting in from the left and shooting viciously with her right to make it 3-0 in the 12th minute. 

Brunswick’s ladder position was already established coming into this game and Bulleen could not drop below second, so this was a chance for the Lions to sharpen their claws ahead of finals. Alana Cortellino made space for herself on the left and set up Izabel Dahakiz for the home side’s fouirth in the 21st minute. 

It was 5-0 before half time. Paige Zois over a set peice usually spells trouble for the opposition and her excellent corner was directed in with a strong Isaballa Accardo header. 

Another Zois corner, this time from the opposite side provided Butrus with her third before half time. The winger nodded in from close range to make it six goal Bulleen before the break. 

Butrus’s trickery earned Bulleen a 57th minute penalty and complete a remarkable performance in an incredible individual season. Zois stepped up to convert the spot kick and scored a well deserved goal after two assists and coming close from open play herself. 

With the result well beyond doubt, attention turned to keeping the staring players fresh and giving others and opportunity to be match sharp for the semi final. Five changes were made including Claudia Mihocic taking to the pitch and Rosie Rodger putting in a promising looking shaft. 

The eighth and final goal arrived in the 75th minute. Accardo scored her second via a glancing header from Ava Brieidis’s out swinging corner kick. 

The 8-0 result means that Box Hill will be facing the only team that outscored them in Round 25, and sets up an entertaining match up in the semi final. 

Heidelberg United rediscovered their winning form with a 3-0 win over fellow finals side Essendon Royals.

Steph Galea opened the scoring after taking advantage of a defensive error and Tamar Levin added their second after half time following a rapid counter attack.

Caitlin Karic sealed the win with Heidelberg’s third. She finished from close range after another end to end move from the premiers

South Melbourne ended the season on a high with a 5-0 win over Boroondara–Carey Eagles.

Heidi Dalton was the first to find the net with a long range effort on the turn.

The second came almost directly from a corner kick with Alexis Pantazopoulos being eventually credited for the goal.

Isabella Rako scored their third after rounding Mia Mossman and keeping her composure from a tight angle.

South scored twice in the dying minutes of added time to cap off the victory. Akeisha Sandu made it 4-0 with a close range header and Dalton brought up her brace following Grace Taranto’s excellent tackle,  run and pass.

Alamein FC ended a strong season with a 1-0 win over Spring Hills FC. Jessica Shilton was the only scorer of the game after getting on the the of a long ball into the box.

Alamein pushed until the end of the season, and although they will be disappointed with missing finals, it was a year in which nobody looked forward to playing them.

The final game of FV Academy’s senior team’s history ended with a 2-1 win over Bentleigh Greens.

Emily Rutkowski’s free kick opened the scoring. It was the latest in a series of spectacular strikes from the versatile defender.

Bentleigh drew level after Sidney Allen’s cross was finished at the far post by Caitlin Storay.

But FV Academy were determined to end their season with a win and achieved that through a late penalty kick from Jasmine Millar.

It was another good result and strong performance by FV Academy, and although it will be a shame that this is the last we will see of this squad together, many of them are sure to be stars in this league and likely on bigger stages.

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