Report by Ella McShane, exclusive photography from Cat Bryant (31/1/26)
Above: Left to right: Roxanne Kerr, Rita Saffioti(Deputy Premier of Western Australia), Sarah Walsh, and Roger Kerr with the Women’s Asian Cup trophy. Photo: Cat Bryant for Impetus.
The 2026 Women’s Asian Cup kicks off in Perth in just under a month, the momentous occasion honoured by a ‘One Month To Go’ Event hosted at the Scarborough Beach Amphitheatre yesterday.
Hosted by renowned presenter Amberley Lobo, the summer afternoon saw players, staff and locals alike welcomed to Whadjuk Boodjar country (Greater Perth Metropolitan area), hear from pillars of the Perth women’s football community and enjoy cultural celebrations from participating nations such as Japan, Chinese Taipei and The Philippines.
The ceremony commenced with a welcome to Whadjuk Boodjar country from Aboriginal elder Robyn Collard, who delivered the speech in both Noongar (the Aboriginal language of the Southwest of Western Australia) and English.
Outlining the spiritual importance of Whadjuk Boodjar country, Collard said: “For many thousands of years our ancestors have been connected with this land, walked through the dust and the waters, sat around the campfires, sharing food and water and the many many stories of this land. We are grateful because this has kept our culture or knowledge and our stories alive. Wandjoo, Wandjoo (Welcome), you are welcome to this land”.
Following the welcome to Whadjuk Boodjar country, former Matilda Sarah Walsh took the stand. The 70 cap Matilda honourably playing an integral role in the organisation of this event. Walsh also represented the green and gold when they clinched victory at the Asian Cup in 2010.
“I think this trophy has a significant history and association with the Matildas. It is the only trophy the Matildas have won.There is 10 fantastic matches beyond the opening ceremony (to be played in Perth)…we have some exciting communities we expect to engage with.”
Above: Perth prepares to mark one month until the big kick-off of the Women’s Asian Cup. Photo: Cat Bryant for Impetus.
Head of coach of The Philippines women’s national team, Mark Torcaso was in attendance, and outlined what his side is eagerly anticipating to bring into the tournament.
“Very much like the culture of The Philippines, exciting, passionate, emotional, and more importantly dedicated. We’ve got a group of women who are totally focused on representing the country and making football important for females.”
Torcaso not doubting the challenge ahead of his team, he also expressed how he expects the fans and Filipino community to support his side during the tournament.
“I was also excited because [The Philippines] has quite a large community around the world and I know we will have quite a large community there supporting us. We’re going to do it [for the fans], we’re going to do it for all the girls families and all the people in the Philippines.”
Roxanne Kerr was at the event, mother of Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr, who has been involved with both elite womens sport and the Perth community alike for many years. We asked what she is hoping the tournament will bring to the Perth community, she stated: “A lot of excitement, I hope.
“It’s just great for the public and the young girls. Just saw one gorgeous girl there. They’re just so excited! We don’t get as many tournaments as the eastern states so its just fantastic. And we’ve got the opening ceremony, I just think it is going to bring a wealth of everything to Perth.”
The opening match will take place between hosts Australia and The Philippines on Sunday the 1st of March at Perth Stadium at 5pm, local time. Global Sensation Audrey Nuna, from K-Pop Demon Hunters will be performing an exclusive one night only concert at the opening ceremony.
For a large exclusive photo gallery of images from the event by Cat Bryant, including the cultural performances, go to our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball.
Follow Impetus on social media:
@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram and TikTok.
Above: Rubi Sullivan talks to the press ahead of the Derby. Image: Sydney FC.
By Alice de Koster-Kitto(30/01/2025)
With the Sydney Derby just days away, the pressure is on for Sydney FC as they fight for their first win since November 2025. Sydney FC defender Rubi Sullivan spoke to the media ahead of the derby, regarding just how important this win will be for Sydney and what it means to play a derby in front of a home crowd.
“It’s super exciting. I think all the girls have had a very busy schedule, but I think we’re all locking in, and I think everyone is super excited to be playing in front of that many fans.”
The Derby will take place at Allianz Stadium this Saturday at 5 pm as part of a massive double header, with the men’s Derby kicking off at 7:35 pm. With the Sydney FC supporters’ section, “The Cove,” already sold out, as of Friday morning, the match is set to be one of the biggest crowds this season so far. The importance of such a passionate crowd of fans in the stands, especially during a high-stakes Derby, is not lost on Sullivan.
“I think it’s great because we get so many more fans coming to support us, supporting the men after, and I think it’s just a great time. We girls, we hang back and watch the men, we support each other.”
As a Sydney local, the chance to play her part in a Derby in front of her hometown crowd is an honour, and she’s using that to fuel her performance.
“I think just representing Sydney is a very special thing for me, and playing in the Derby obviously is a big honour for anybody.”
The last time Sydney FC took on Wanderers was in December 2025, where the match ended in a draw, for the first time since 2021. Previously, the Derby had been Sydney’s for the taking. However, a recent drop in attacking form has meant Sydney has struggled to find the back of the net.
“I think the disappointment that was there after we drew the last Derby, it was evident within the team a long time after that, and I think that is just fuelling us for this game and how much we want to win this game.”
“Obviously, we aren’t performing how we would like to be performing. I think we’ve been having lots of draws, and I think attacking, we’ve just been lacking goals, but I think they definitely are coming, and we just have to stick to it.”
Although there has been a lack of goals for the Sky Blues, there has been significant improvement defensively, as they have kept a clean sheet during their past two matches.
“We’ve been creating so many chances for ourselves. I think it’s just that final, you know, putting it in the back of the net.”
The excellent current form of goalkeeper Heather Hinz has instilled a new confidence in the Sydney FC squad, and allowed them to take more risks when creating opportunities, with Sullivan saying it’s now about converting those chances into goals.
“If you know Heather on and off the pitch, she’s always holding herself to a high standard, and I think that really resonates within this team. I think the way she performs on the field, she has saved us, you know, many times in these past couple weeks, and I think her being in top form is just like energy for the team.”
Although the result of the Derby will not have a direct impact on the ladder, with Sydney FC currently sitting in 10th, just one place and 3 points ahead of Wanderers, a win could be exactly what Sydney needs to find their way back into form and work their way up to a more desirable place on the ladder, as the season approaches the halfway mark.
“We’ve been dropping a couple of points with these draws, but I think if we get this win, we’re back in form, we’re on top. I think once we break that ice, we will, you know, really succeed in the season.”
“We’re really going to be putting 100% in, and the goals will come.”
The pressure of a Derby, especially at home, is naturally intensified; the stakes of this particular meeting are at an all-time high, as a win is crucial for Sydney FC at this point in the season. It is, however, that exact pressure that Rubi Sullivan believes will bring the points home for Sydney FC and send them to victory in this Sydney Derby.
“I think everyone has a lot to say about us, but I think we all know that trophies are still there to be won. We’re halfway through the season now, and I think the opportunity is there and that we will take it.”
Follow Impetus on social media:
@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram and TikTok.
Above: Annalise Rasmussen (left), Peta Trimis (centre) and Tamar Levin (right) celebrate after Rasmussen scored one of her two goals tonight against Brisbane.Photo: via A Leagues
The Brisbane Roar and the Central Coast Mariners have played out an intriguing two all draw to record only the second draw in the head to head history of the two sides.
In the first half a well placed goal from Ashlyn Miller was quickly cancelled out by Annalise Rasmussen, before a well struck goal in the second half from Daisy Brown was also cancelled out by Rasmussen.
As much as Peta Trimis and her lively footwork was energetic early, it was the home side who looked the most dangerous early, with Bente Jansen in particular asking questions of Annalee Grove in the Mariners’ goals.
It was not long before Brisbane got some reward for its early dominance not even nine minutes into the clash. A well fed pass from Jansen found Miller directly in front of goal, who slotted it perfectly past Grove for the opening goal of the clash.
However the Mariners did not have to wait too long for the perfect opportunity to respond, earning a penalty not even five minutes later. Rasmussen – the one who had earned her side the penalty after copping a rough tackle in the box from Leia Varley – then stood up to take the penalty and slotted it home perfectly to get the game back on even terms.
Getting the equaliser seemed to rejuvenate the Mariners, who started to take control of both the time in attack and percentage of possession.
As the half progressed, both sides had a different issue trying to find a second goal for themselves.
For the Roar, they would get the ball out wide then cross it in but have no one in the right position in front of goal to capitalise on the cross. Meanwhile for the Mariners, their through balls to their running attackers like Rasmussen and Trimis had too much power on them so Chloe Lincoln was able to pounce on them before the Mariners’ attackers could get a foot to them.
In the end, the score remained at one goal each at the break.
It was a fairly even affair in the second half, with plenty of end to end action for fans to enjoy. Brisbane did look the more likely of the two sides to score, but the Mariners certainly were not without chances of their own.
For much of the half it did not look like either side would score, but that changed with about 15 minutes to go when Daisy Brown stole the ball in midfield, and with a long range shot caught Grove off her line and a second goal in the books for the home side.
The home side could not celebrate retaking the lead for long, with Rasmussen slotting home a second goal for the evening mere minutes later, and proceedings were even once again.
Despite conceding the equaliser again Brisbane kept fighting hard to retake the lead again, but the Mariners defence held firm to keep the score level and come away from their trip north with a point.
If conceding the lead for the second time in one night was not bad enough for Brisbane, Sharn Freier was forced from the field in serious pain in the shadows of stoppage time, with the worry that she had in fact done a serious knee injury.
Above: Holly Furphy speaks to the media. Image: Melbourne Victory.
By Alice de Koster-Kitto and Isabelle Campbell (30/1/26)
Melbourne Victory will head to McKellar Park this weekend to take on Canberra United. The meeting follows a disappointing draw with Sydney FC last round, although Victory forward Holly Furphy is headed into this match with a drive to win and is confident the squad is ready to put on their best performance in an effort to turn the season around.
”There’s been a huge focus this week, just in the attacking, and putting that game behind us, and I think as a group pretty proud of the way we played, and we held a clean sheet, which was good,” said Furphy.
Victory was defeated 3-1 in their last meeting with Canberra United. It wasn’t through lack of opportunity that Victory were not able to break through, but rather an inability to capitalise on chances created, which has naturally been a main focus in the weeks leading up to the match.
“That was an interesting game. They had three chances and three goals, so we had a lot of chances and one goal, I think, as I said before, just converting our chances is a huge part of what we’re trying to create,” said Furphy.
“I think it’s just really converting those chances, probably one of the highest chances created in the league, but it’s just that final action, and we’ve just been really trying to focus on that and just that intent to put it away.”
With Canberra’s combative and physical style of football, which they have been using to their advantage throughout the season, Victory have been taking opportunities since their initial loss to practice maintaining composure during moments of intensity, and learning to capitalise on that pressure, with Furphy stating that mindset has played an important role in this element of preparation.
“I think for me, I would say it’s mindset, but as a group, it’s just repetition and, you know, practising those intense moments where the ball drops down and trying to get those chances away.”
Currently leading the team in assists, Furphy has been an integral part of the chances created in recent games. Her connection with the rest of the forward line, particularly with Kennedy White and Sofia Sakalis, is likely to be the key to finishing those chances and coming away with a win.
“It’s been good. I think Kennedy and I are pretty close off the field, so that helps, obviously, and understanding just her movement and Sofia’s movement as well as the 10s, but it’s been enjoyable.”
While the upcoming match against Canberra may be one that comes with great pressure, as Victory fight to secure their place in the top six as finals approach, Furphy says the squad as a collective have a “super positive attitude for everyone. I think we’re just trying to all come together after a few draws and a loss,” as they are “just trying to get through the Canberra game and not really focus on the ladder at all, and just trying to get an outcome each game and each training move forward as well.”
Although Furphy and the Victory squad are taking things game by game, and turning their focus internally, rather than becoming distracted by a bigger picture, there is an extra drive to bring home a win against Canberra, following one of the biggest upsets of the season, at their last meeting, and Furphy is hoping that that drive, will be what the squad needs to turn this fixture around return to Melbourne with 3 points to their name.
Above: Hopkins addresses the media. Image: Melbourne Victory.
Despite the frustration of not turning chances into three points, Jeff Hopkins said the response from his players in the days following the 0-0 draw to Sydney FC has reinforced his belief that the group is edging closer to the next step.
“I think the performance we put in was what we asked for, what we agreed on. I was really proud of the effort the girls put in.”
Rather than dwelling on the result itself, Hopkins pointed to the emotional reaction inside the group as the most telling indicator of progress.
“We had to kind of manage the narrative after the game, because for me, I was very, very positive and the thing that really made me happy was how unhappy the players were. We got into the huddle after the game and I looked around and I could see that on the faces of everybody, they’d given everything they had, and they were so upset that we hadn’t won the game, and that showed me that we’re ready to take the next step now.”
“We just need to learn from the game, there’s two or three areas I thought we could have been better in different areas of the field. We’ve worked on fixing them and getting them right for the weekend.”
With the league standings as tight as ever, Hopkins and his squad know there is little margin for error.
“Every game’s a really tough game in this league. There’s not much between the top and the bottom sides and it’s going to be a tough game for us this week.”
From a squad perspective, Victory have largely come through the week in good shape.
“I’m not sure if we’re gonna get Mini [Pollicina] back. She was the specialist yesterday, she’s just trained today, but not fully. You never know, she might surprise us and be available for the weekend but I don’t think so.”
“Everyone else has pulled up well, we got Grace [Maher] back last week, so she’s got another week’s training under her belt which will do her a world of good and a fit and healthy Grace is great for our team.”
Turning attention to Canberra, Hopkins expects a contest that will demand physicality and intent from both sides.
“I think what you see is what you get with them. They’re a very physical side, they go out and they try to win games.”
“We know that going there is going to be tough, they’re going to come at us. Which sometimes might leave them a little bit open, but I think it’s gonna be a physical game against them as well.”
Recent performances have set the standard for what will be required.
“If we look at last week’s game, I thought that was the thing for me, we were prepared to roll our sleeves up and get down and get dirty and get physical and I think it’s going to be a similar type of game this week.”
Hopkins believes the result will come down to which side manages key moments best.
“I think there’ll be two teams going pretty hard at each other, and the team that deals with the opposition’s front line and the transition lines will come out on top.”
One of the positives to emerge in last week’s draw was the performance of Rosie Curtis, who stepped into the starting lineup for the first time this season and impressed in a challenging role.
“I’ve got a huge amount of time for Rosie. She’s been unlucky not to be in the starting 11. She’s been training really well. Look at the way the games have gone, she hasn’t got off the bench too often, because we’ve been chasing games recently.”
As Victory continue to create chances, Hopkins also addressed the challenge of pushing for improvement without damaging confidence.
“It’s a real balance, that’s one of the tough things about coaching, you can jump in there with two feet and say it as it is and ruin the confidence of your players, but you can’t look away from it either.”
“That’s been a real good thing over the last few weeks is that we have kind of looked at everything very clinically, and there’s no point of fingers, but this is what’s happening. This is what needs to be together.”
“And it’s not just that we haven’t been putting chances away, there are areas of our game that we haven’t been good enough that we’ve had to look at.”
For Hopkins, those conversations, even when difficult, are essential to continued improvement.
“Sometimes it’s pretty hard and that’s why they’re professional athletes. We can’t hide things from them. We have to be honest, they have to know that we’re saying these things and highlighting these things for one reason, to make us better, to get us winning the following week.”
Follow Impetus on social media:
@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram and TikTok.
By Kieran Yap with photography by Rob Lizzi 29/1/26
Above: Nat Tathem returned to play.Photo: Rob Lizzi
Another outstanding display from Heather Hinz denied Perth Glory’s near endless attacking wave at Sam Kerr Football Centre.
Sydney FC arrived in Western Australia on their second successive away trip, following a goalless draw against Melbourne Victory there was a feeling that they might be able to get a result against a Perth Glory side that has been strong at home.
Glory were coming off defeat against Melbourne City that was costly in more than just points. Tijan McKenna was missing through injury, but the home fans welcomed back Nat Tathem from a serious knee injury.
The momentum swung back and forth in the early stages. Sydney FC began stronger and created several good chances on goal. Riley Tanner’s battle with Grace Johnston appeared to be a key matchup for the evening with Tanner threatening on the ball, but Johnston able to force her into shots from the angle when she looked to cut in.
Perth took some time to get into the game, but when they did, they looked as good as they had all season. Isabel Dalton brought the best out of Hinz with a long range effort and a dipping cross that almost caught out the in-form goalkeeper.
Rola Badawiya was a dynamic, mobile attacking presence coming in off the left. She cut in and shot on goal, but her effort skimmed wide and Susan Phonsongkham was dangerously roaming behind the attack looking to create chances and keep the duo of Maddison Ayson and Willa Pearson guessing.
Theresa Morrissey was not called into action as much as Hinz, but when she was she was up to the task, strong hands and good positioning denied Ulkekul and Hana Lowry from close range.
When Hinz was eventually beaten, the ball would still not fall fortunately for Perth. Multiple Glory players directed the ball toward goal from a set piece, but Amelia Cassar was somehow able to clear it over the bar in a near impossible situation.
Sydney began the second half in the ascendancy, but could not capitalise on that momentum. It was not long before Perth began to probe and attack again, creating chance after chance but to no avail.
Glory fans thought the breakthrough was imminent when Badawiya looked to have been fouled in the box, but no penalty was given.
Perth Glory would not be deterred, but they would be denied. Hinz remained unbeatable throughout the evening. Ella Lincoln, Phonsongkham and Emma Tovar all had shots that were saved in spectacular style.
Sydney FC face Western Sydney Wanderers next up, while Perth Glory will try and overcome both the form of Wellington Phoenix and the tyranny of distance when they take the field in Round 15.
Above: Jill Roord celebrates her hattrick. Photo: FC Twente Vrouwen.
This week the Eredivisie delivered a Jill Roord hattrick as Twente reasserted their dominance. A new ‘best of the rest’ also emerged as confident Heerenveen continued to score many more goals than they have in the last few seasons.
AZ 0-4 FC Twente
FC Twente Women secured a convincing 0-4 away victory over AZ on Sunday evening in the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie, with Jill Roord finally adding to her somewhat light tally in the Eredivisie. Her hattrick proved she’s the star of the team.
Inside ten minutes, Roord received the ball just outside the penalty area and calmly placed a left-footed shot into the far corner to make it 0–1. Her shot was calm but precize, showcasing why she’s one of the best Dutch midfielders.
FC Twente continued to press high and disrupt AZ’s build-up play, a tactic that soon paid off again. A poorly weighted back pass from the home side was intercepted by Roord, who rounded goalkeeper Febe Copier and finished with ease for her second goal of the evening.
The visitors went into the break with a comfortable two-goal lead. After half-time, Twente had less control over the game but rarely came under serious threat, as AZ struggled to create clear-cut chances. Confidence is clearly lacking after losing to Heerenveen last week, and the absence of a suspended Desiree van Lunteren is cleary felt.
Ajax might be the ‘talent team’, but FC Twente proved in the last 30 minutes to have talent in their collective. Liv Pennock came on as a substitute and proved she’s an absolute star in the making. On the right wing she poses such a thread with her technical feet and pace.
Again she was able to take on defenders by surprise. Liv Pennock was fouled in the penalty area, and Roord stepped up to complete her hat-trick from the spot. Shortly afterwards, youngster Eva Oude Elberink added a fourth goal assisted by Pennock.
ADO Den Haag 0-3 Ajax
Ajax Women recorded a comfortable 0-3 victory away at bottom side ADO Den Haag, despite missing a lot of big chances. Even though coach Anouk Bruijl was annoyed her team didn’t score more, Ajax remains the leader of the Eredivisie.
Ajax is known to score early this season and they did so in the 12th round of the Eredivisie. The opening goal arrived after fifteen minutes. Following a blocked attempt by Xanne Kip, left winger Bo van Egmond reacted quickest and scored the 1-0.
A lot of chances were created, yet a lot of youngsters went for their own luck, instead of giving the ball to a better positioned player. Striker Danique Tolhoek was visibly frustrated by her teammates when she should’ve been given the ball to extend the lead. A strong run from leftback Amber Visscher gave her goal number 9 this season.
ADO Den Haag came close to pulling one back, thanks to a couple of take on’s by new signing Yuna Sonoda. But just before the break Ajax were the ones who came close to another goal. Danique Noordman thunderstorm of attack deserved a goal, but her venom strike hit the crossbar. A bitter sight was seeing veteran Sherida Spitse down on the ground. She was forced off, while she’s just been back from injury.
The decisive third goal eventually came late on through substitute Daniëlle Noordermeer. She scored an absolute beauty of a goal! The defender took a shot from around 25 metres into the top corner against her former club! She’s becoming an absolute gem in the Eredivisie with her technical goals.
This shows Ajax has an incredible range of goalscorers, in every position! This is their strongest weapon to remain on top and win the title, but FC Twente still has a game in hand.
PSV 3-0 Utrecht
PSV made a flying start against Utrecht, slicing through the visitors’ defence within the opening minute to take an early lead. A swift passing move saw the ball fall to Liz Rijsbergen, who calmly finished underneath goalkeeper Femke Bastiaen to make it 1–0.
The pressure from the Eindhoven side continued, and the second goal followed after a defensive error from Utrecht. Aline Weerelts attempted to play the ball back to Bastiaen while seated on the ground, but the pass was far too weak. PSV capitalised immediately, and Lore Jacobs was left with a simple tap-in into an empty net to double the advantage.
Not long after, PSV struck again. Marthe Munsterman was caught out defensively as Chimera Ripa made a well-timed run behind her. The PSV forward remained composed and finished clinically to make it 3-0 before half-time. Again FC Utrecht failed dramatically in the first half to, at least, keep a clean sheet.
In the second half, PSV did not add to their tally, easing off slightly while maintaining control of the match. Utrecht enjoyed spells of possession and attempted several efforts from distance, but they failed to seriously test PSV goalkeeper Nicky Evrard.
Overall, PSV looks like the one to push Ajax and FC Twente to another level for the title! They have the most mature team right now and seem ready for another try at Champions League football next season.
Excelsior 2-4 Heerenveen
In the relegation fight Heerenveen got an important win over Excelsior. Heerenveen won with an impressive 4-2 and showed a confidence they must have gotten in their win against AZ, whom they now have surpassed in the Eredivisie Standings.
Heerenveen threatened early, with a deflected cross from Altena narrowly missing the target. In the seventh minute, the visitors opened the scoring when Venema headed home from a corner. Heerenveen extended their lead following a fast build-up and a scramble in the box, with Maass eventually poking the ball home.
Excelsior reduced the deficit in the 27th minute when Verheijen headed in from a corner, restoring hope for the hosts. That hope was short-lived, however, as Maatman made it 1–3, once again from a corner.
After the break, Excelsior made three substitutions, which injected fresh energy into the team. Westerink pulled one back in the 60th minute, finishing from close range after another corner. Just three minutes later, Heerenveen struck again, with Kroezen scoring the decisive fourth goal via a deflection. Excelsior pushed forward late on, but clear chances failed to materialise.
Heerenveen have gotten wind under their wings and are now pretty much out of the relegation fight with 13 points on the board. Excelsior, selling Caitlin Hendriks to FC Twente, are in a bad position to get out of the relegation zone.
HERA 0-1 Feyenoord
Feyenoord Women claimed a narrow 0–1 away win over HERA United on Sunday afternoon, with a single goal from Esmee de Graaf proving enough to secure all three points in round twelve of the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie.
The Rotterdam side dominated possession in the first half and spent long spells camped in the opposition half. However, their play lacked precision, and HERA’s defense looked solid. After seventeen minutes, Feyenoord eventually broke the deadlock, with Itamura stealing the ball away to give an assist to Esmee de Graaf who just had to knick it home.
After the break, Feyenoord continued to control the game but again struggled with inaccurate passing in the final third. As a result, they were unable to kill the match off early. HERA had growing hopes of getting points and started to shoot from distance, but failed to score!
The victory keeps Feyenoord firmly in contention near the top of the league table. They breathe down the neck of PSV, but it won’t surprise me if they’ve used up their luck. With small wins against teams lower down the table they don’t look convincing enough to get in third place over a solid PSV.
NAC Breda 1-2 PEC Zwolle
PEC Zwolle claimed a hard-fought 1–2 away win over NAC Breda on Sunday evening, with Lyanne Iedema scoring a late winner at the ground of VV Internos. The result keeps the Zwolle side firmly in the race for the top four.
From the opening stages, PEC Zwolle were the stronger team. Early on, the visitors saw an effort cleared off the line, while at the other end Indi van Dalen fired wide for NAC. After nearly half an hour, PEC Zwolle took a deserved lead. Britt Udink picked out Hanna Huizenga, and the striker finished confidently to make it 0–1.
NAC responded well and were unfortunate not to equalise shortly afterwards, with Kiki Heshof striking the crossbar. The match remained tense into the second half, with both sides battling for control.
The decisive moments came late on. Four minutes from time, Brigitte Franken scored the equaliser, raising expectations of a draw. PEC Zwolle, however, refused to settle for a point. Almost immediately, Lyanne Iedema produced a fine curving strike to restore the lead and seal a dramatic victory!
Above: Stephen Peters speaks to the press. Image: Perth Glory.
By Ella McShane (27/1/26)
Perth Glory take on league icons Sydney FC, a mere four days following their match up with front runners Melbourne City. Wednesday night’s matchup presents a rare opportunity for the girls in purple currently sitting eighth, to make the significant jump to second if they secure the three points.
“It’s all about the opportunity for us now, we can’t think about the negatives or the pressure,” said Peters.
Perth have not secured three points from a match up with the Sky Blues in almost nine years.
“If you do break [the losing streak] you obviously celebrate it.”
“The ladder is too tight to be looking into the theories”
“It’s all about the opportunity for us now, we can’t think about the negatives or the pressure”.
Looking to the opponent, Peters highlighted the very plausible threat the uncharacteristically out of form, Sydney FC side pose.
“I think they’re defensively very good to be honest. They’re still a very difficult side to play against.”
“I don’t think they’re going to be an easy team to play against.”
The last time the two sides met, weather delays plagued the round’s fixtures.
“We were very good with the ball in that particular game, the fade out obviously cost us.”
“We are a different team since that occurred, but you have to be weary of some of their strike players.”
Stephens’ highlighted forwards Amelia Cassar and Riley Tanner as the strike players to be aware of.
With the tight turn around between games, squad rotation is to be expected.
“There will be three or four different faces, it’s more from a planning perspective because it’s obviously important that we don’t fatigue the same players.”
Natalie Tathem is “close” to a return following her ACL injury and forward Tanika Lala has been “doing well” in her recovery.
The catchup round 10 of ALW will take place at 7pm AWST Wednesday 28th of January at Sam Kerr. Streaming for free on 10Play and for subscribers of Paramount+.
Follow Impetus on social media:
@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram and TikTok.
Above:The two teams prepare for a free kick to come on Photo: Chelsea FC
With the London Derby underway at Stamford Bridge, we saw Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 for the first time at Stamford Bridge since 2018. Beth Mead and Mariona Caldentey scored in the second half to secure the three points. This allowed Man City to extend their lead to nine points, something which looks hard to close for Chelsea.
The Action
The game started evenly, with both teams looking to get down the other end. The first chance of the game fell to Beth Mead, who shot wide.
Throughout the first 10 minutes, Chelsea were on a high defense with Millie Bright leading as captain with some last-ditch tackles and Alyssa Thompson providing a relief option for Chelsea with her pace.
Russo shot wide, before Chelsea started to push Renee Slegers’ defence for the first time winning some corners, although they couldn’t make an impact on the score. Given Arsenal’s midweek 1-0 loss to Manchester United in the Subway Cup, they were clearly determined to make a positive attacking start to this one, controlling more possession in the first 30 minutes.
Chelsea started to grow into the game later in the half, with Thompson and Carpenter pushing forward. Sam Kerr continued to work hard as part of that front two with Thompson to create chances for herself, while at the other end Caitlin Foord drew Hannah Hampton into her first save, but it was too easy for England’s number one.
Despite the 0-0 score, it was a good game by the half, with both teams looking like the top three worthy sides that they haven’t always looked throughout the season so far. To pinpoint Lucy Bronze, Ellie Carpenter, Alessia Russo, and Mariona Caldentey, they really brought a changed dynamic to the game, taking risks in attack.
It wasn’t long into the second half until Russo perfectly aligned the ball for Mead as she soared through the box and put the goal in, giving Arsenal the lead at the Bridge.
Responding to the goal, Sonia Bompastor brought Lauren James, Aggie Beever-Jones and Keira Walsh on to shift the balance of the game and give Chelsea more creative options. Despite this, it was Arsenal who struck again, as Mead picked out Caldentey, unmarked on the edge of the box. The Spanish midfielder accepted Chelsea’s invitation into the box, allowing her the time to pick out the corner and deny Hampton any hope of making a save.
In the final 30 minutes of the game, we really saw the frustrations and emotions running through the Chelsea players at their home stadium. Lauren James put a number of teasing balls into the box, with Cuthbert and Nusken both missing easy headers. Pelova and Holmberg added fresh legs to an Arsenal side under attack, while at the other end Bronze blocked a Russo shot.
And as the final minute of the 5 minutes added time expired, we saw Arsenal beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge for the first time since 2018, putting them 1 point behind in the table. Manchester City’s win on sunday extends their advantage on Chelsea to nine, but with City facing these two sides in the nect two weeks, there is still plenty of football to happen in the WSL
Above: Chloe Logarzo Berryhill celebrates at the 2019 Women’s World Cup with Matildas teammate Ellie Carpenter. Image: Rachel Bach/By The White Line for Football Australia.
By Genevieve Henry (26/1/26).
Matildas and Western Sydney Wanderers’ Chloe Logarzo Berryhill announced her retirement on Jan. 23 on Instagram, after going down injured in the Wanderers’ clash with Brisbane Roar on Jan. 16. While Berryhill had announced that the 2025-26 season would be her last, she was denied the privilege of going out on her own terms. She suffered an ACL, LCL, and tendon avulsion injury, ending her playing days.
When Chloe Logarzo Berryhill stepped out in the green and gold in December 2024, it was the first time she had played for her country in over two years. She sang the national anthem with tears in her eyes; it was the culmination of the incredible perseverance shown by the Matildas veteran to continue playing through injuries. In the 31st minute, she was forced off through concussion protocol. With tears in her eyes once again, she departed the field.
That image of Berryhill that will remain most prominent in the minds of Matildas fans reminiscing on the career of a player who suffered a second career stanza marred by terrible luck. That game against Chinese Taipei is a real encapsulation of her career; she shone brightly in the brief time she was on, setting a high standard of hard-work for her teammates to follow.
Berryhill would go on to make three more appearances for Australia, in June and July 2025 against Slovenia and Panama, where she wore her married name on the back of her shirt for the first time.
The way Berryhill’s national team career ended is not befitting of a player with her status. In the early and middle years of her career, Berryhill was a critical figure in a thriving Matildas side. From 2017 to 2019, the midfielder went on a tear for the Matildas and helped to propel them to international recognition.
In her 59 appearances, she scored 8 goals — the most memorable of which came in the “Miracle of Montpellier” as she sent a bouncing ball past Brazil to equalize in the must-win World Cup match. Berryhill also recorded an assist and was named player of the match in that game that will forever live on in Australian football history.
Above: Berryhill in green and gold. Image: Football Australia.
From her first appearances in 2013 to her final in July 2025, Berryhill was an integral member of the Matildas, participating in the 2016 Olympics, 2018 Asian Cup, 2019 World Cup, and 2020 Olympics. She was also a part of the famous team that won the 2017 Tournament of Nations and beat the USA for the first time ever.
Berryhill’s luck changed in a 2021 friendly against Ireland, where she tore the ACL in her right knee. Complications with this injury and subsequent knee problems caused her to narrowly miss out on selection for both the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics.
“As I look back on the last decade, I feel nothing but extreme gratitude for the career I have had,” Berryhill said on Instagram after announcing her retirement.
“Through all the challenges, heartbreak, success, and suffering, there have been moments of pure happiness and pride. I accomplished my childhood dream, and along the way I pushed myself past what I thought was possible,” Berryhill wrote. “None of those moments would have been as special without the people and coaches who have made seemingly small snippets of my life feel monumental.”
Although Berryhill finished her A-Leagues career in red and black, she will be remembered as a legend for rivals Sydney FC. She won two A-League championships with the Sky Blues. She was known as one of the best midfielders in the A-League from her first season in 2011 to her final season. She would play for Newcastle Jets and Western United in the A-League Women along with the two Sydney clubs.
Above: Berryhill competes with Sharn Frier for the ball for Western Sydney. Image: Football Australia.
Her time at Western United was a triumph, captaining the side in its successful maiden years and scoring 15 goals in 27 appearances. Following the club’s collapse, she chose to spend her final year playing back home in Sydney — and although she only took the field a few times for the Wanderers, she made a real impact.
“Her professionalism and courage set the standard for our squad and countless young women chasing their football dreams. Her retirement leaves an immeasurable gap, but also a legacy that will continue to inspire players for generations,” Wanderers head coach Geoff Abrahams said.
Along with her legacy as one of the best players in Australia’s domestic league, Berryhill played for multiple NWSL clubs in the United States, Bristol City in England, Eskilstuna United in Sweden, Avaldsnes in Norway, and most recently, Como 1907 in Italy.
“Chloe has been nothing short of extraordinary, not only as a footballer but as a human being,” Wanderers chief executive Scott Hudson said in a statement. “While this injury brings her playing days to a close earlier than we all hoped, her legacy is forever ingrained in Australian football.”
Follow Impetus on social media:
@ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram and TikTok.
By Gethin Thurlow for Impetus at Petershill Park (25/1/26)
Above:Callie Brookshire hitting her incredible goal Photo:@RangersWFC on X
New signing for Rangers Calliste Brookshire scored a late equaliser in her first start to the club, as they drew with SWPL leaders Glasgow City, keeping the gap at seven points.
The Teams
After a comfortable win over Partick Thistle last time, City would face their first big test of the year without the key centre back partnership of Lana Golob and Kimberly Smit. Golob missed out on the squad altogether, with Emma Brownlie taking her place. Amy Anderson returned to the midfield, while Emily Whelan started on the right wing ahead of Sofia Maatta. Lisa Forrest was Leanne Ross’s choice up front once more.
For the visitors, January signing Callie Brookshire started for the first time on the left wing, with Quinty Sabajo getting a rare start in that numebr 10 position. This pushed Kim Shin-Ji back into the holding midfielder role alongside Jodi Mcleary – with May Cruft dropping to the bench.
The Action
Within five minutes, Rangers had their first chance. A poor touch from Brownlie allowed new signing Brookshire to run through one-on-one with Lee Gibson. Gibson dived in aggressively, winning the ball back for her team. Glasgow City went straight down the other end, winning a corner from which Evans headed right at Jenna Fife.
The game was very transitional, with both teams pressing high and looking to enter the box as soon as they won the ball. After Eilidh Austin was lucky to avoid a yellow card for pulling Amy Muir back cynically, Glasgow City came close from the ensuing free kick. Wrobel was found on the six yard line, and worked the ball towards Forrest and Kozlova, but the Rangers defence scambled it away for a corner.
After defending two City corners well, Leanne Crichton’s side counterattacked, and Eilidh Austin was played in behind the defence. She shot early, unable to cause any issues for Gibson. They kept the pressure, and were particuarly having success down the left with Brookshire. Linda Motlhalo’s tackle kick started a quick move from City. Whelan picked up the ball and drove directly at the opposition backline. Providing width, striker Forrest took up Whelan’s position on the right and was subsequently picked out. Slashing a low cross along the box, it took a cruel deflection off Claire Rafferty, inching past the wrong-footed Jenna Fife in goal.
A few minutes after the goal, Lisa Evans had to depart with an injury, allowing the more classic defensive fullback Chloe Warrington to come on in her place.
Despite the goal, the game continued to be a high-quality end-to-end affair, with neither side ever retaining any form of sustained pressure or dominance for more than a few minutes. While Rangers looked comfortable in possession working their way through City, the hosts had a ruthless edge to their attacks. There was an intuitive understanding of where any other player would be and what they were thinking at any point. They combined effortlessly and quickly, which allowed them some mismatches. This was especially effective down the left with Muir, Kozlova and Motlhalo.
Shortly before the break, the second-placed team looked to have levelled the game, as Wilkinson rolled Laura Berry through, and she slotted her left-footed shot into the bottom corner, past Gibson. However, celebrations were cut short when the offside flag went up. There was still time for another Glasgow City attack, as Whelan’s cross flew over Kozlova waiting in the middle. Finally, a breathless first half was drawn to a close.
The second half started the same way, with both teams getting in on goal early. Wrobel had two tame efforts – when perhaps there were better passes on, while Katie Wilkinson had her first shot. With Smit glued to her all day, she found it dificult to get free in the box. On this occasion, he tight pressure of the defender forced her to shoot while turning on her left foot, and she couldn’t get any power on it.
Much like last week against Hibs, given Laura Berry’s striker abilities meant she played more as a wide striker than a winger – which allowed Austin space to provide the attacking support she did last time out. Amy Muir however was enjoying a fantastic afternoon on and off the ball, getting the better of Austin in both phases of play.
The scoreline started to affect the game, as Rangers accrued more chances and possession for the first time in the game. This City defence is no joke though. There’s a reason they’ve conceded significantly fewer goals than anyone else. Part of the reason for their success is the willingness and ability of attacking players like Kozlova and Motlhalo to help out in defence. They packed out the box when it was required, frustrating the away side who were determined to find their two strikers inside the area.
Another reason is the goalkeeper sitting behind them. Lee Gibson is always a cool and composed figure at the back, but this time round she showed her acrobatic shot-stopping ability. Laura Berry had a shot from close range which rose towards the top corner, somehow Gibson reached out her left hand and powered the ball past the post.
At the other end, Fife made a game-saving stop. When Nicole Kozlova runs through on goal, you know where it’s usually going. Fife made a great adjustment, getting her right foot down to stop the shot and keep her team in it.
That save proved to be worth it just moments later, as Rangers went down the other end. The ball found its way to the left hand side, and after an airael duel Callie Brookshire found herself alone at the corner of the box. she curled what initially looked like a mishit cross towards goal, but the ball just nestled perfectly for Rangers, dropping into the far corner to leave City stunned.
Rangers had the best of the last five minutes, but there were no clear-cut chances for either side and it ended with a draw, which was an acceptable-but-not-ideal result for both sides.
Player of the Match Kimberly Smit
Above: Kimberly Smit defending against Queens Park in the Scottish Cup Photo: @amyphotography_22 on Instagram
SWPL top goalscorer Katie Wilkinson was kept oh so quiet in this one, and that was down to the brilliant defensive work of Kimberly Smit. Without her usual partner Lana Golob, Smit was given the responsibility of staying on Wilkinson for the whole afternnon. That was all she did – go wherever the English striker went, never giving an inch of space of second of time to her.
A major reason for City’s astonishing record this year and this game is the reliable defence. If you rarely give up chances and goals, results are going to to your way. Smit was at the heart of the today, and the only goal was nothing to do with her. If they can keep Celtic in two weeks time and the other challengers post split as quiet in attack as they did today, it’s hard to see how Glasgow City can lose this title.
Where this leaves the teams
Coming at the start of a season-defining run for City, the nature of the draw will be frustrating, but avoiding a loss was crucial and it keeps them still clear at the top of the league. A win would have put that lead over today’s opponents into double figures, and it was looking to be heading that way, but they will have a commanding lead as we approach the split. The defence performed excellently today, and the goal was a bit of a fluke – certainly not something you’d blame on the back five.
A loss would have been catastrophic, and given how Rangers’ attack looked unable to break through City all day, they have to be satisfied with a draw. While it does let rivals Celtic jump two points ahead, they have to make the same trip in two weeks. keeping the gap at seven points was crucial, they need to stay in play by the time the split comes, and then it’s anyones game.
impetusfootball.org 