Bulleen win but Boroondara stay top of the table: NPLW Victoria Round 12

Above: Grace Taranto of Bulleen Lions. Photo: Instagram

The top four teams on the ladder faced off in Round 12, and while the order remains the same, the games showed that momentum may be shifting in the Victorian NPLW.

Preston Lions 3-3 Alamein FC

Friday night’s game saw Alamein FC travel to face the Preston Lions in what turned out to be a thriller.

After strong starts to the season, both sides needed a win to keep in touch with the top four. Neither team was in the mood to be overly cautious though, and what transpired was a high-scoring, drama-filled encounter.

Patricia Charalambous put the visitors ahead in the 12th minute. She ran onto to a perfectly weighted through ball and chipped the keeper from outside the box. The timing of the run and the quality of the pass beat the offside trap.

Preston had had the better of the opening exchanges, and the goal came slightly against the run of play, but it was well deserved after a slick build-up and confident finish.

The home side struggled to gain momentum after the goal, but in the 32nd minute, they found an equaliser. Miri Nishimura poked home after a Lev Edwards free-kick created a goal-mouth scramble that the Japanese midfielder reacted fastest to.

That gave Preston a bit of a spark, and Delaney Lindahl had them in the lead just a minute later. The winger cruised into the box from the left side and smashed home a shot off her right boot at full pace.

Preston had regained control on the scoreboard, but Alamein were able to regroup at the break.

Sidney Allen looked dangerous as the second half kicked off, she created one chance that was disallowed for a goal-mouth foul, and a surging run helped set up Alamein’s second of the night.

The attempted through ball was blocked, but Molly Bourke’s vision picked out Charalambous in a pocket of space. The former Heidelberg United striker stepped into the penalty box and fired her effort low into the net to make it 2-2 in the 64th minute.

Preston re-took the lead yet again from another set piece. Paula Mitchell’s volley at the back post was directed well enough to squirm in despite the goalkeeper’s best efforts. Preston looked set to hold onto that lead as the clock ticked down toward the 90th minute.

Alamein continued to attack and in the 94th minute they got their reward. A series of late corner kicks dialled up the pressure on the Preston defence and a final effort caused havoc in the six-yard box. It was eventually scrambled in, with the final finish credited to Molly Bourke.

The draw does neither team any real favours, they sit in sixth and seventh after the round completed, but it was an exciting match, even if it was an opportunity missed by the Preston Lions.

Calder United 1-3 Box Hill United

Box Hill’s recent turnaround in form continued with their third win in a row. The club’s upswing has coincided with the arrivals of Sofia Sakalis, Melinda Barbieri, and Rosie Curtis in midfield along with Emily Kos in defence. However, these players have allowed others to shine with less responsibility to determine the result.

The match against Calder United would be a strong test for visitors, with the home side coming off a 6-2 thrashing of Bayside United in Round 11.

Box Hill opened the scoring late in the first half. Kanna Moriya’s clever flick found Asuka Doi unmarked at the back post to head them into the lead. Calder drew level early in the second half through Alexis Mitchell scoring a penalty that she had earned.

Sofia Saklis scored for the third successive game when a cross from the right side bounced off the woodwork. The 2022 League Gold Medal winner was on hand to bury the rebound and restore Box Hill’s lead.

Sakalis was once again at the centre of the action for the game sealer. Calder United had been pushing for an equaliser, but Box Hill remained resolute. It took a well-worked move to unlock the Calder defence one last time and make it 3-0 in the 92nd minute.

Laura Pickett’s long ball from defence was brilliantly controlled by Anais Josefski. The Box Hill winger cruised inboard from the flank and switched play to Sakalis. Her deep cross in was met by Doi who bookended the scoring for the afternoon with the final goal of the match.

The result brings up Box Hill’s third consecutive win, and helped them climb above Southern United and FV Emerging. With half the season still to play, the distance between them and the top four is unlikely but not impossible.

Calder needed to win this game, and the loss keeps them in eighth position. Their best is good enough to challenge any team, but they need to find it consistently.

Southern United 2-3 Bayside United

Typical of this season so far, it was another shootout with some late goals on Saturday night. Bayside United arrived needing a response from their big loss last week, but with Kayla Deaver and Julia Budiongo in attack, they are always dangerous.

Southern United found that out in the first half. Deaver was able to find herself one on one with the fullback and dribbled along the by-line before the cross was forced in by Budiongo for a 38th-minute goal.

Deaver added one of her own in the 43rd minute. After her far post tap-in was somehow kept off the line, she was given a second chance. The Southern United defenders backed off, expecting another cross into the middle, but Deaver steadied and slammed in Bayside’s second.

Isabella Fernandez added a third goal before halftime. She finished off a swift move by outpacing the defence and finishing emphatically from just inside the box on the stroke of halftime.

That third goal would prove crucial. Southern United had looked defeated on the scoreboard but kept pushing and trying to find ways into the contest.

Antoonia Niteros scored what looked like a consolation goal in the 80th minute. She directed a corner in at the back post that somehow writhed over the line.

The final few minutes of the game were sparked into life when Zarli Vandenberg ended a Southern United counterattack with an excellent finish from the edge of the penalty area.

Despite the scare, Bayside United managed to hold on for the three points. They sit just outside of the top four, two points behind Heidelberg but anticipating a tough game against Boroondara-Carey Eagles next week.

Boroondara-Carey Eagles 2-3 Bulleen Lions

This was a very high-quality match between two sides with similarly matched attacks.

Boroondara-Carey can boast the league’s in-form striker and Kurea Okino did not disappoint again. Bulleen have Alana Jancevski. While not an out an out nine, she has scored in her last three games including the Nike FC Cup, with every expectation of adding another in this match.

Rebbecca Lim found the net first for the Eagles with one of the goals of the season. She received the ball wide on the right and sped toward goal on a direct but swerving run inboard. With a final burst of pace, she cut through the central defenders and slid the ball across goal and into the net. Six minutes had passed.

Bulleen responded quickly. In the 13th minute. Beattie Goad cruised through the middle and tried her luck from long range. Deanna Bottalico did well to parry it away, but Maja Markovski was on hand to calmly cut the ball back across goal for Tyla Jay Vlajnic to equalise.

Markovski brought up her second assist in an impressive outing for the former Melbourne Victory striker. Her long pass found Jancevski in attack. Bulleen’s in-form gun muscled past one defender then shimmied beyond the second before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper from close range.

The goal was a mix of balance, physicality, and control. It was a masterful effort and put Bulleen in the lead in the 34th minute.

It would not be a Boroondara match without an Okino goal and as halftime approached she drew the sides level again. Okino is clinical in the penalty box and did not need much time or space to bring up her 16th on the campaign. A hard left-footed shot meant that the sides went into halftime at 2-2.

Bulleen’s victory would come from one of its long-time stars. Tiffany Eliadis’ 54th-minute goal proved to be the winner. Vlajnic played her behind the defence, but the Bulleen number 10 still had plenry to do.

Eliadis skipped around the keeper but had tightened the angle. She slowed down, composed herself, and curled in what would eventually be the winning goal.

The win keeps Bulleen in third spot, and Boroondara do not drop from first, but including the Nike FC Cup win, this is Bulleen’s second win against the league leaders in a month.

Is the balance of power shifting in the league or is Boroondara just going through a slight dip? In any case, the Eagles’ game against Box Hill will be very intriguing.

Heidelberg United 2-0 South Melbourne

This was set up to be one of the best games of the round. Heidelberg has been growing into their best form but were without Tijan McKenna and Ava Brieids who were both on Young Matildas duty. They had also lost star defender Bella Wallhead to an ACL injury last week. Impetus wishes Bella all the best in her recovery.

South Melbourne has been in strong form recently, much of that has been on the back of Danielle Wise. The striker won the 2022 Golden Boot with Heidelberg and was a top priority for South’s recruiters. Wise wore the armband against her former side.

In the absence of the star striker, Heidelberg have found other solutions, Steph Galea has been consistently menacing, and Katrina Nikpour joined from Alamein. Nicole Blackett has been in stellar form recently. A hattrick against Southern United was backed up by another brilliant goal against FV Emerging. Blackett had four goals in three games coming into the derby and added another in the first half.

The chance was created by the skill of Kathryn Vlahopoulos. The Heidelberg midfielder flicked the ball over a defender with one touch, then her second put Blackett within range. The half volley flew past Zara Board in goal to make it 1-0.

Nikpour added a second goal before halftime. A speculative effort from the wing slipped through the hands of Board and into the net. It was an unfortunate way to concede, but Heidelberg deserved the lead and looked in control of the match for most of the afternoon.

South Melbourne introduced young Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Miranda Templeman in the second half. The chances were few for either side, but when she was called upon, she delivered at her own personal cost.

Templeman came off her line, got down low, and made herself big with a huge save late in the game. Unfortunately, the force of the ball at close range looked to have injured her shoulder. She was in visible distress as play stopped.

With no other goalkeeper on the bench, South turned to striker Betti Michael. She looked slightly nervous but provided one of the few highlights for South Melbourne on a day when nothing else was working for them.

When Heidelberg earned a penalty, they looked likely to add a third. But Michael pulled off a miraculous double save to deny the spot kick and then the follow-up.

Heidelberg were rarely troubled up the other end, and Melissa Maizels commanded her penalty area behind a strong organized defence.

The win was important for Heidelberg to keep a gap between them and Bayside United. With an upcoming match against Bulleen in Round 13, this was a huge result.

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

National Para Championships head to Perth

7/6/23

Above: Action from a previous National Para Football Championships – Perth will host the event later this year. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

Australia’s best para footballers are headed to Perth this October with the west coast city set to host the 2023 National Para Football Championships for the first time. 

Running from 3 – 8 October 2023 at the world-class WA State Football Centre, five teams will be in contention to be crowned national champions in the 19th edition of the competition. 

The tournament will hold additional significance this year as it will be the final opportunity to impress the ParaMatildas and Pararoos head coaches prior to their selection of the Australian squads for the Men’s and Women’s 2023 IFCPF Para Asian Cup. 

Football Australia Head of Inclusion, Sarah Walsh, said it was pleasing to see the competition continue to grow each year. 

“The National Para Football Championships are a critical part of Football Australia’s vision to ensure football is open and accessible to the Australian community,” Walsh said. 

“Last year we saw the expansion of the tournament to include an all-women’s team for the first time and advancements including full streaming of all the matches. Off the back of that increased visibility and heroizing of para footballers, we anticipate that in 2023 we will see greater participation than ever before.

Above: The opportunity afforded to Para Footballers by the National Para Football Championships is huge. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

“The championships are an essential representative pathway but every year we see that it’s about more than football; it’s an inclusive and positive environment that allows players to celebrate and empower each other and para football,” she concluded. 

With the tournament set to kick off at the beginning of October, it will provide a smorgasbord of football for Perth with the city recently announced as the host for Group B of the Olympic Qualification tournament, involving the Matildas.

It will be the first time that Perth would have held the Championships and is reward for the recent strong development of ParaMatildas emerging from the state. 

Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell said: “Football West is delighted with the news that the 2023 National Para Football Championships are coming to Perth for the first time.

“In recent years WA has boasted some of the best players in Australia, including recently retired Pararoos legend Chris Barty, Connor Bunce, Alessandro La Verghetta, and goalkeeper Katelyn Smith, who helped the ParaMatildas reach the IFCPF Women’s World Cup final in 2022.

“The new State Football Centre will be an outstanding venue for this tournament and hopefully we will see the Gold Fields WA State Paras go one better than the silver medal they won in 2019.  It is also another endorsement for football in Western Australia, coming just weeks before the Matildas head to Perth to play three qualifying matches for the Paris Olympics.”

Above: ParaMatildas head coach Kelly Stirton emphasised the importance of the tournament for her national squad selection. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

ParaMatildas head coach, Kelly Stirton, stated the importance of the Championships in identifying the next generation of national team stars. 

“It’s exciting to have the National Para Football Championships back for another year and in a new location,” Stirton said. “These Championships play an important role in the player pathway as it is the only time that Kai Lammert and I get to watch and identify new players to come into our camps for domestic training camps and major tournaments.

“We are appreciative of the substantial amount of work undertaken by the Member Federations to prepare players for these Championships. Representing your state with your mates is always a special time and with the added incentive of the national team, this tournament is one that provides both coaches and players fantastic opportunities.”

Former Pararoos goalkeeper and WA State Team Manager, Chris Barty, explained how vital the tournament was for acceptance of para-athletes.  

“For players starting out, this might be the first time they play our version of the game. It might even be the first time they meet someone else with a disability,” Barty said. “I loved my time playing for Australia, but representing Western Australia was always extra special.”

“The gold jersey is something that is synonymous with State Teams in WA Football and getting to wear that kit essentially tells our players “We Belong”. As a captain, I always wanted our team to go out there and show everyone in football why we deserved to belong alongside other WA State Teams.”

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Scottish Play-Off News

This weekend has seen a series of big games in Scotland with clubs battling to retain their league status or gain promotion. Our team of writers have all the details (5/6/23).

Above: Forfar Farmington celebrate their playoff win over Bonnyrigg Rose to seal promotion to the SWF League One. Photo: Sportpix.

SWPL 1 Play-Off Final

by Ben Gilby

Hamilton Academical retained their top-flight status after coming from behind to defeat Gartcairn at Broadwood Stadium yesterday afternoon.

The Accies came from behind to win the tie with 15 minutes remaining after SWPL2 side Gartcairn had taken the lead thanks to Georgina McTear with 15 minutes played. It remained that way at the break.

Chloe Muir levelled with 65 minutes played as she headed home MT Gardiner’s cross. Then, 10 minutes later came the winner as Eilidh Martin poked home from close range. It was a fitting way for Hamilton Academical to send off their head coach Gary Doctor.

SWPL 2 Play-Off Final

by Ben Gilby

Stirling University retained their SWPL 2 status thanks to a 1-0 win over SWFL Championship runners-up Rossvale.

Stirling University took the win thanks to a goal from a corner with half-hour played. Rossvale came agonisingly close to levelling on several occasions, with Impetus-sponsored Lauren Coleman seeing a header saved. Kaitlyn Canavan saw a shot come back off the bar and an earlier effort smothered by brave goalkeeping from close range.

Biffa SWFL Play-Offs

from Tom Freeman

Above: Action from the play-off between Forfar Farmington (blue) and Bonnyrigg Rose. Photo: Sportpix

Forfar Farmington and Queen of the South have secured promotion to the national Scottish Women’s League One after winning their respective play-offs against Bonnyrigg Rose and Harmony Row.

Over 600 spectators attended the ties in Dumfries and Forfar, demonstrating growing interest in the new pyramid structure in the Scottish Women’s game.

A Georgina Wilson double helped Biffa SWFL South winners Queen of the South to their first promotion with a 2-0 win against a robust Harmony Row side who looked dangerous on the break.

Biffa SWFL North winners Forfar Farmington return to competitive national football for the first time since the club was forced to withdraw from the Premier League in 2021. A hat-trick by Cheryl Kilcoyne spurred the Angus side into a thrilling 5-3 victory over Bonnyrigg Rose, who had clinched second spot in the Biffa SWFL East and a play-off place because league winners Livingston Reserves do not qualify for promotion as a development side of a club already in the performance leagues.

The young Bonnyrigg side were 4-1 down at halftime but fought their way back into the game with goals from Saffron McCabe and Sophie Douglas, but unable to catch Forfar in the end.

They now face Harmony Row for the third and final place in League One this Sunday in Airdrie.

Above: Queen of the South celebrate a goal against Harmony Row in their play-off win. Photo: Sportpix.

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Western Australia State Cup Quarter-Final News

Ben Gilby rounds up the details from the weekend’s ties, and Rob Lizzi provides a photo gallery from the tie of the round – a repeat of last year’s Final as Perth SC hosted Perth RedStar (5/6/23).

Above: All smiles for Perth SC as they defeated cup holders Perth RedStar at Dorrien Gardens. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.

Perth SC 3-1 Perth RedStar

In a repeat of last year’s final, Perth SC knocked out defending champions Perth RedStar at the quarter-final stage.

RedStar, with club legend Renee Leota making her 250th club appearance in 11 years with the team, including under their previous guise of Northern Redbacks, only had Abbey Woolley’s late goal to show for their efforts.

Peter Rakic’s team earned their spot in the last four thanks to goals from Ella Lincoln, Abbey Meakins, and Gemma Craine.

This is the second time in 2023 that The Azzurri have prevented RedStar from retaining silverware that they won last year, with Perth winning the Night Series Final between the two sides 7-6 on penalties.

Balcatta Etna 1-3 Fremantle City
Above: Olivia Trueman (black kit) – scorer of Fremantle City’s opening goal, pictured earlier this season against Hyundai NTC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.

Fremantle City won the battle of two of the NPLW WA’s in-form teams at Grindleford Reserve on Sunday.

Olivia Trueman, who will be the subject of this week’s WA On Wednesday interview, gave the visitors the lead, before Tia Stonehill, in superb goalscoring form recently, levelled matters.

The game remained locked up at 1-1 into the final stages, before two goals in the final two minutes settled it favour of the port city team. Carys Hawkins and Abbey Green netted the goals that put Freo into the final four.

Hyundai NTC 4-2 Subiaco
Above: Georgia Cassidy of the NTC, sho scored two of her side’s four goals against Subiaco, captured last season. Photo: Football West.

The NTC made it into the last four despite the best efforts of Subiaco to mount a second-half comeback at E&D Litis Stadium on Sunday.

Georgia Cassidy’s brace, allied to goals from Daisy Gronewald-Shield and Maja Archibald gave the teenagers a commanding lead at the break.

However, after the interval, Siena Crevacore and Dakota van Vugt were on target for Greg Farrell’s side to give Subi some hope, but 4-2 was as close as they got.

Hamersley Rovers 0-3 Murdoch University Melville

Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) ended the run of the only non-NPLW WA club remaining in the competition in a WA Day encounter at Carine Open Space.

In the match, played in hugely challenging conditions, MUM FC led by a single goal at the break before eventually running out three goal winners. Young star Jess Johnson added to her recent tally of goals, with the other strikes coming from Sophie Meaden and Isabella Wainwright.

Rob Lizzi’s photo gallery from Perth SC v Perth RedStar at Dorrien Gardens:

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Aberystwyth Town announce award winners

4/6/23

Above: Bethan ‘Cheeks’ Roberts with the Manager’s Player of the Year shield. Photo: ATWFC Media.

Libby Isaac and Bethan ‘Cheeks’ Roberts were the big winners at the Aberystwyth Town Women end-of-season awards which also saw honours given to both of the club’s youngsters that Impetus sponsor.

Coaches and players picked out those they felt deserved recognition for their efforts during the season – and the trophies were awarded at a lunch at Harry’s Bar in Aberystwyth yesterday.

Isaac – unable to attend the ceremony – was named Players’ Player of the Year. Usually, a forward, she shifted to defence midway through the campaign after injury ravaged the backline, and proved herself a classy centre-half as well as a major attacking threat.

Above: Emily Thomas with her Young Player of the Year Award. Photo: ATWFC Media.

Midfielder Roberts, the manager’s player of the year, was reliably consistent all season, and an instrumental part of the Seasiders’ run to the semi-finals of the FAW Women’s Cup and the Genero Adran Trophy.

Emily Thomas, celebrating her 19th birthday on the day of the awards – picked up two trophies, young player of the year and sharing top scorer with Amy Jenkins.

The Impetus-sponsored duo Modlen Gwynne and Ella Thomas, who made their first-team debuts as 15-year-olds this season, picked up prizes for their contributions to the under-19s. Modlen was announced as the U19s Players’ Player of the Year, with Ella rewarded as the most improved player of the year, as well as the top goalscorer award.

Above: Impetus-sponsored Modlen Gwynne, with her U19s Player’s Player of the Year Award. Photo: ATWFC Media,

The winners were:

Players’ Player of the Year: Libby Isaac

Manager’s Player of the Year: Bethan “Cheeks” Roberts

Young Player of the Year: Emily Thomas

Top scorers: Amy Jenkins and Emily Thomas

Development team Olayers’ Player of the Year: Alice Croot

Development team manager’s Player of the Year: Steph Land

Development team most improved Player of the Year: Olivia Evans

Development team top scorer: Jess Baker 

Under 19s Players’ Player of the Year: Modlen Gwynne

Under 19s manager’s Player of the Year: Imi Scourfield

Under 19s most improved Player of the Year: Ella Thomas

Under 19s top scorer: Ella Thomas

Above: Impetus-sponsored Ella Thomas with the U19s Most Improved Player of the Year Award. Photo: ATWFC Media.

To find out more about Modlen and Ella, check out our exclusive interviews with them here: https://impetusfootball.org/2023/03/16/modlen-gwynne-from-aberystwyth-town-mascot-to-first-team-player-in-eight-years/

And: https://impetusfootball.org/2023/03/23/ella-thomas-at-the-beginning-of-an-exciting-journey/

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Guro Reiten: The case for the baby-faced assassin

by Emmanuel Faith (2/6/23)

Above: Guro Reiten contesting possession for Chelsea in the FA Cup Final. Photo: Ben Phillips for Impetus.

When Sam Kerr won Chelsea’s player of the season, their fanbase was divided. A lot felt that the Western Australian deserved it – she has come up trumps for the team this season, especially in domestic cups showing why she is one of the best strikers in the world right now, while the other part felt Reiten should have won it for her consistent goal contributions through the season.

However, when The Athletic named their team of the season and didn’t include Reiten, the fanbase was shocked, and justifiably so.

This piece is written to shed more light on why Reiten should be in every WSL team of the season, and why she deserves all the individual accolades (even ahead of Kerr).

Artwork: The Athletic

Reiten concluded the season with 20 assists, this is more goal contributions ahead of her celebrated colleague, Kerr, and other attackers like Leah Galton, Alexia Russo, Frida Maanum, Kenza Dali, Chloe Kelly, and more. In fact, only two players provided more assists than Reiten – Khadijah Shaw and Rachel Daly whose renaissance has been the talk of the town.

Talking of Renaissance, it is the first time we have seen the Norwegian spend a huge chunk of time playing on the left throughout a season. Chelsea boss Emma Hayes has rotated her as an inverted wing-back or left back, sometimes as an attacking midfielder on either side of the midfield, but this season, she has held down the role in the absence of Fran Kirby and Pernille Harder either beside or behind Kerr, tripling her assists contributions during the process.

Reiten was Chelsea’s best-attacking player in the WSL, joint-best player in the UWCL (tying with Sam Kerr with less minutes) and while Kerr has come up trumps in domestic cup finals, Reiten’s brilliance was crucial to getting to these finals.

Above: Guro Reiten and Sam Kerr: The pair have formed a formidable partnership. Photo: Chelsea FC Women.

Reiten was Chelsea’s best player of the season, indubitably so and the way she wrapped up the season, especially the last two matches is a testament to how productive her campaign has been.

On the penultimate weekend, she opened the scoring against Arsenal, and then her free-kick led to the second in a 2-0 win. On the final weekend, she assisted Kerr’s opener and then scored the second herself. Two crucial games, two Player of the Match awards. Isn’t that how to etch your name in the hearts of the fans?

The Norwegian star has consistently delivered excellence throughout the season contributing almost one-third of the team’s attacking output, she also has had spectacular performances like the four assists and one goal contribution in the 8-0 win over Leicester City last December, or the 8-0 win against the Albanian champions, Vllaznia where she registered four assists in 74 minutes, before being substituted. If she has delivered these electric performances, why is she not picking up the individual awards?

Above: Guro Reiten delivering what was surely the assist of the season against Leicester City in December. Image: The Athletic.

In a recent conversation with BBC where she was dubbed the baby-faced assassin, Reiten mentioned how she isn’t concerned about the individual awards or accolades, as long as the team is winning, however, the midfielder has been so influential on this Chelsea team this season, and her individual brilliance should not go unrecognized.

Reiten should stroll into any WSL team of the season, and should be spoken about with huge respect. The fans know this, and it’s high time journalists recognized this to sing her praises as deserved.

While our immediate focus is on the World Cup starting in less than 50 days, if this season is a predictor of what is to come, then we can expect more moments of magic from the assist queen next season. Until then, let the football community beware, Reiten is here, making history, and we should be committed to documenting this story.

Above: Reiten’s mural at 235 Portobello Road, London, commissioned by the FA in conjunction with Chelsea FC. Photo: She Kicks.

Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

SWPL Play-Off Finals previewed

from Robert Wilson (2/6/23)

Above: Rossvale (red and yellow) will be taking on Stirling University on Sunday for a place in the SWPL 2. Photo: Kelly Nelson.

This Sunday the 2022/23 Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) season concludes with the first-ever play-off finals. Both the SWPL 2 (12:10 KO) and SWPL (16:10) finals will be held on the same day, back-to-back at Broadwood Stadium.

After a dramatic final day in both the SWPL and SWPL 2, these matches provide an opportunity for clubs to earn promotion or to retain their current league status.

Over 500 tickets have already been sold, with entry for the full event just £3 for adults and free for concessions. Both matches will also be live on BBC ALBA, the first women’s matches at this level to be broadcast.

In the SWPL 2 play-off final, Stirling University take on SWF Championship side Rossvale, with Impetus sponsored Lauren Coleman in their squad.

Stirling University finished seventh in SWPL 2, 12 points clear of bottom-placed East Fife, but 16 adrift of Queen’s Park in what was an extremely competitive league.

Above: Stirling University FC. Photo: Stirling University Women FC.

Looking ahead to the match, Stirling University Head Coach, Nile Robbins, said: “We are really excited for the play-off. We’ve been playing well and building momentum in recent weeks, with the knowledge that everything we do now puts us in the best position possible.

“The players have been giving everything in each training session, as we know how much this means and we are looking forward to showing everyone what we can do on the 4th June.”

Rossvale enter the Play-off Final after a last-day victory over Renfrew. The SWF Championship side knew a draw would be enough, but they were comfortable 3-0 winners on the night to claim their spot as runners-up.

Rossvale First Team Manager, Julie McSherry, said: “We are finally coming to the end of a long and exciting season. I couldn’t be happier with the progress we have made as a team and as a club. The girls have been absolutely brilliant all year and shown great resilience when things haven’t gone our way to always bounce back. We look forward to all of the challenges to come next season and beyond.”

Above: Hamilton Academical FC – who face Gartcairn to preserve their SWPL status. Photo: Hamilton Academical Women FC.

In the SWPL play-off final, Hamilton Academical face Gartcairn.

The New Douglas Park side finished 11th in the SWPL but took the battle to avoid the play-off spot to the final day of the season. Away to Dundee United they earned a point, which wasn’t quite enough to leapfrog their opponents to guaranteed safety.

Hamilton Academical Head Coach, Gary Doctor, ahead of his final game for the club said: “Obviously the play-off position we wanted to avoid but while it is disappointing, it is also a chance to finish our season on a high with our own Cup Final in that effect. 

“We have been playing well after the split and took things down to the last game which shows just how competitive SWPL has been. Anything can happen in a one-off match and we will be doing everything to impose our style onto the match and come out as the winner”.

Above: Gartcairn have had a lot to celebrate this season and are hoping for another promotion. Photo: Gartcairn Women.

Gartcairn finished runners-up in SWPL 2 after a final-day victory over Stirling University. The side, who were only promoted in 2021/22, have either been top or second in the table for the vast majority of the season as they now look to achieve back-to-back promotions.

Gartcairn Head Coach, Robert McCallum, said: “I am immensely proud of my players and backroom staff in getting to the playoff finals considering we are merely two seasons old. “We are under no illusions that we are the underdogs but we truly hope can do ourselves proud on the day and manage to play the occasion.”

Fiona McIntyre, SWPL Managing Director, said: “We look forward to concluding an exciting 2022/23 season with these play-off final matches. The format of the one-legged ties adds drama and tension that I have no doubt will result in absorbing football and a momentous occasion for all involved.

“We are also delighted these matches will be shown live by BBC ALBA. This is a strong signal of the growing strength and interest in women’s football in Scotland as we expand the level of coverage throughout the game.”

Rosie Russell: AFC Wimbledon through and through

AFC Wimbledon‘s newly crowned Young Player of the Year Rosie Russell has been at the club since the age of 10 and has now played over 100 first-team games for the Dons. The starlet spoke to Ben Gilby about life at the club and how they are determined to finally make it into tier three this time next year (31/5/23).

Above: Rosie Russell striding forward for AFC Wimbledon against Ashford Town (Middx) this season. Photo: Emily Topping, supplied by Rosie Russell.

Rosie Russell, quite simply is AFC Wimbledon. She joined the club at the age of 10, made her first team debut at the age of 16, and has now clocked up over 100 senior appearances.

Russell is one of those players who is an absolute joy to watch. Full of running, creativity, and her deep passion for the Dons is obvious in everything she does on the pitch.

These are qualities that the 21-year-old identifies in herself. “Not only as a player but as a person, I like to consider myself incredibly committed and motivated. I throw myself at everything will all the effort I can give. I think my will to do well only drives me further; which I hope comes across on the pitch. I’m always keen to learn and improve so I can keep developing as a player.  

“My game has changed over the years. Initially, I was more of an attacking-minded midfield player. I think this has given me the ability to feel comfortable with the ball at my feet and enjoy forward play; it’s the creative flair of attacking football that I love. I know now, being a defender, my priority is clean sheets, but I certainly enjoy getting forward and being involved at the other end of the pitch too.”

The young AFC Wimbledon star outlined how she got signed for the club whilst still at primary school.

Above: Rosie Russell in possession for AFC Wimbledon this season. Photo: Emily Topping supplied by Rosie Russell.

“I think my love for football was initially more of a need to be busy and active. It was the sort of thing I’d occupy myself with – kicking a ball around the garden or at break times in school. It all developed from there. I went to a few of AFC Wimbledon’s holiday camps and after-school sessions, before deciding to trial for the girls’ section. I loved it.

“The thrill of competitive games, being in a team, and of course, winning! My time at Wimbledon has been fantastic. Through the youth age groups, we won our league various times and also competed in cup competitions and finals. I remember my first-ever shirt number for AFC Wimbledon was number two.

“I was initially always an attacking player, so I don’t know why I wanted that number, but maybe it was a sign that I really belonged at full-back! It feels somewhat sentimental to be wearing number two again.”

Over the 13 years that Russell has been at the club, she has experienced so many highs. “Not only for the women’s team but with reserves and youth groups too,” the full-back said. 

“One moment to mention would obviously be my first appearance for the Dons, and following that my first goal too! It was extra special as it was a game played at the men’s team’s then-stadium, Kingsmeadow! 

“Another would be our run in the league plate competition and reaching a national final, it’s something I am proud of everyone for. Within that cup run, on an individual level, my 120th-minute equalising goal against Portsmouth in the quarter-finals is up there too. 

“I would also love to include the first game at Plough Lane as one of my proudest moments in a Dons shirt because it felt like a summation of everything I have put into football over the past years.”

Above: Calm in possession and driving forward – AFC Wimbledon’s Rosie Russell. Photo: Tom Smeeth, supplied by Rosie Russell.

When it comes to the biggest thing that she has had to deal with during her footballing career so far, Russell points to the moment when she was called into the first team at the age of 16.

“I think I’ve been fortunate not to experience any real challenges, I’ve always been and felt supported. That can only be a credit to AFC Wimbledon.

“I would say, not that it was a real challenge, but being 16 and in the first-team squad was quite daunting, especially considering everyone else was older than me. I was always mindful that I was at a different stage of life: at school while everyone else has full-time jobs. But that didn’t cause any problems because everyone was so considerate and supportive.

“I like to think that if/when I do encounter any challenges I’ll remember to be present and appreciate what I do have, and the experiences I have had with football. That way I should stay positive and be able to overcome anything that is a challenge. It’s about putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward.” 

Looking back at her 13 years at the Dons, the defender believes the most positive change for the team in that time is the ability to play matches at the club’s Plough Lane Stadium

“I think that is a huge achievement for the club and something I make a point to appreciate every time we have the privilege of playing there. Playing at Plough Lane, I feel has allowed us to draw a bigger fan base and increase the visibility of the women’s game within the local community.

“I find Wimbledon a very welcoming place, and that’s down to all the players, staff, and everybody else behind the scenes who go to immense effort to facilitate this. The love and care everybody has for the club is something I can visibly notice and therefore I embody that model.

Above: Rosie Russell in possession for AFC Wimbledon at QPR’s Loftus Road stadium. Rangers were the only side to defeat the Dons in the league this season, back in August 2022. Photo: Emily Topping, supplied by Rosie Russell.

“I feel a duty to put 100% effort in both on and off the pitch. Engaging with fans after the game is what I feel I can do to create that special experience for people watching and hopefully give that personal touch to someone who can then feel how special the club is.” 

Russell has been part of another hugely successful season for AFC Wimbledon in both league and cup, but once again it ended with the heartbreak of missing out on promotion to tier three. Dons have beaten countless teams from the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier over recent years in cup football to emphasise their quality and their ability to compete at a higher level.

Going unbeaten in the tier four FA Women’s National League Division One South-East from 28th August to the end of the season was not enough to seal the one available promotion spot. Just one league defeat all season, to Queen’s Park Rangers, did the damage. It’s something that the full-back finds very difficult.

“It is obviously incredibly frustrating, and something I am personally very disappointed about. We all know that we have the ability to compete in the higher league but have missed out on promotion. It’s important though not to dwell on the past, but to learn and move on. It’s something we can evaluate and look to use as motivation for the coming season. We will use the foundations we have created and continue with standards we have of ourselves to win the league this coming season.”

That aim of finally sealing promotion has been boosted with the vast majority of the Dons squad already confirmed to be staying at the club for next season already. Russell feels this is a huge potential advantage for the side.

“I think the continuity is important, having for the most part the same squad means we know from last season how each other like to play, so it’s only a positive. It should allow us to pick up from where we left off, and hopefully continue our long unbeaten run through the season.

Above: Rosie Russell on the ball for AFC Wimbledon this season. Photo: Emily Topping, supplied by Rosie Russell.

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NWSL: Can the Bats ride the Wave?

Denise Duffy and Jonathon Hagger provide their weekly detailed look ahead to one of this week’s games in the NWSL including details from the pre-game media events (1/6/23).

Above: Gotham FC’s Sinead Farrelly goes for goal. Photo: Jimena Panduro.

The top of the NWSL leaderboard has become a log jam with six teams contending for the number one spot.

Following Gotham FC’s unlucky 1-1 draw against a quality Washington Spirit last weekend, the Bats have managed to hold on to the #1 spot atop the NWSL by a very slim margin of a single point. Gotham’s foe this week is the San Diego Wave, who are tied for second along with three other teams. Depending on the results across all matches there is every chance there could be a new number #1 by the end of round 10. 

Gotham FC return home to play in front of what will be their biggest audience after two away games on the road while the Wave travel from coast to coast. Both teams will enter Red Bull Stadium on Sunday afternoon, AEST, with impressive home and away win records meaning there is very little to separate these two teams. Will there be an outright winner or will the match result in a draw?

With the FIFA Women’s World Cup starting in six weeks’ time, every NWSL team is looking to bank as many quality results as they can, so that in the absence of their star players, they have positioned themselves well to make the playoffs beginning late October 2023. 

The San Diego Wave Gotham FC squads are very evenly matched in terms of depth of player talent and results achieved so far. Together the two teams have a combined total of 27 goals scored through nine matches, this match could shape up to be a box-to-box fast feet, offensive feast.

Above: Yazmeen Ryan on the charge for Gotham FC. Photo: Jimena Panduro.

Team Comparisons

The Wave started the 2023 season in hot form notching up impressive wins at home before narrowly losing to OL Reign on the road. Through their last five matches, the Wave have achieved mixed results with three wins and two losses. There is no way of knowing in what form the Wave will arrive in as they come off two wins in a row. Based on their track record a loss is certainly a strong possibility.

On the other side of the pitch, Gotham FC comes into the match playing decisive football. They are brimming with confidence after taking down the OL Reign with a comprehensive 4-1 win. This is in stark contrast to the team who finished last in 2022. Gotham midfielder Delanie Sheehan commented on her team’s form so far, “Coming off of last year at the bottom of the table, it’s a step in the right direction, but it’s early.”

Gotham FC continues to maintain a winning formula in the 4-3-3 formation which has yielded positive results. The depth of players in the squad means the team can focus on their style of play knowing that every position is well covered no matter who the role holder is on any given day.

The Wave on the other hand have tinkered around with their formation but have largely settled into a 4-2-1 giving Alex Morgan free reign up front to be a pure striker. With Rachel Hill and Sofia Jakobson providing quality ball from the wings the Gotham wingers will be required to put in some big defensive pushes.

““I’m proud of this group of players, the football we are displaying, and how they believe in the style of the game plan,” said Gotham FC head coach, Juan Carlos Amorós.

Tumbling Records

Sam Kerr (Chelsea FC) holds the NWSL league record with 227 shots on goal, but two players are closing the gap including Gotham FC’s Lynn Williams with 218 and San Diego Wave’s Alex Morgan with 207. There is no doubt that these two players will be firing shots on goal – the crucial element is – which player will have the luck of getting the ball past the opposition’s goalkeeper?

Based on formations and player qualities we expect this match to be a game of to and fro.  Gotham FC will come out on the front foot looking to stamp their authority on the match while the Wave will likely sit and ride out the early offensive onslaughts. The Wave will be looking to pounce on loose ball control, cutting off passes and intercepting, and implementing fast counter-attack initiatives when they present themselves. 

Above: Gotham FC’s Taylor Smith. Photo: Jimena Panduro.

  • Taylor Smith – Forward. Playing alongside Lynn Williams often means that Smith’s excellent performances are not given the attention they deserve. We encourage readers to keep an eye on Smith as her consistent superb match performances have her performing as one of the best in the NWSL this season. 
  • Delanie Sheehan – Forward/Midfield. Coach Amoros quickly recognised Sheehan’s potential as a great player. After three matches being used as a substitute, Sheehan has since started matches playing in the front line on the wing and at forward. When chances to score arise, Sheehan has patience and poise when on the ball evidenced through the incredible number of shots on target with most of them being inside the penalty box.
  • Jenna Nighswonger – Forward. Gotham won the NWSL draft with the Nighswonger pick, and they have her for three years. She’s made a massive impact on the pitch for Gotham. Defenders should keep their eyes on her otherwise they will pay the price.

San Diego Wave are a team still working on their chemistry and onfield partnerships.

  • Alex Morgan – Forward. Has five goals and two assists scored in nine matches. Morgan has never been happier playing club football.
  • Sofia Jakobsen – Wing. Jakobsen is a mature player who is built for speed. Her positioning behind Morgan has yielded her two goals and an assist so far. Her overall form this season hasn’t been amazing however she put in a strong push against the Portland Thorns with a player-of-the-match performance. 
Above: San Diego Wave’s Amirah Ali in action against OL Reign recently. Photo: San Diego Waves FC.
  • Christen Westphall  – Defender. Two assists so far this season. Her performance against Lynn Williams and all that Gotham has running at them will be important.

What to expect in this match –

  • Gotham FC have come out playing hard and fast right from the kickoff in their last few matches. They are brimming with confidence and establish their style of play from the outset. The Wave is going to need to play through the match with that same level of energy to be competitive.
  • Gotham FC boast the strongest left-hand side combination in the NWSL through a player channel of Nighswonger – Mewis – Smith. We expect to see the Wave’s V-shaped structure largely setting up camp in their own half with an eye to turning turnover balls into counterattacks.
  • Taylor Smith vs Alex Morgan. These two superstars of the women’s game line up against each other and it will be as exciting a matchup as they come. Morgan’s exceptional ability to position herself in front of goal makes her a total threat whereas Smith has a proven ability to cross the ball into empty spaces for her teammates to swoop in and score. 
The edge

Keeper – Abby Smith vs Kailen Sheridan. Smith continues to assert her dominance in front of goal having conceded only eight goals so far. Sheridan on the other hand has conceded 11 goals, with six of those goals coming in two matches against a much less competitive Pride team and a very strong Spirit performance. However, Sheridan has hit a purple patch of form demonstrated by her saving seven out of eight shots on target made by the Thorns in the last round. Sheridan is considered one of the top few keepers in the world, however Smith is hot right now.

Backline – The Wave allowed the Portland Thorns to take 19 shots from inside their box in their last match with eight shots being on target. Gotham FC have a proven ability to take the opportunities that are presented to them. On the other side, Gotham Defender Bruninha comes into the match in excellent form with a Player of the Match performance against the Spirit. Casey Stoney will be asking a lot of her back line anchored by Naomi Girma.

When asked about her on-pitch relationship with Abby Smith, Bruninha stated “It feels really good having Abby back there as it gives me confidence to push higher up the pitch. And she directs us well about when to push and when to fall back”.

Midfield – The Wave have used an array of players in the midfield which shows the Wave are still searching for their best combinations. There are a lot of talented players in the Wave’s midfield and they all need to step up in this match. The biggest player to watch is Taylor Kornieck. Will she come in and make a difference? She’s a massive target, and surprisingly good with her feet when healthy. She needs to take care and keep away from needless fouls.

Front Line – Alex Morgan. That’s it. That’s the edge. Can the Gotham defenders hold out Morgan from scoring? She puts her body on the line in offense and defence. The exact same thing can be said for Lynn Williams. These are two of the most complete forwards in the world.

Above: San Diego Wave head coach Casey Stoney. Photo: K.C. Alfred/The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Coaching – Juan Carlos Amorós v Casey Stoney. Stoney is widely regarded as a player and fan favourite. Amorós is racking up the wins and motivating his team. This is one of the more intriguing coach clashes. Both are smart and strong tacticians.

Coach Amorós brings a wealth of experience across global soccer to Gotham FC, having served as a head coach of clubs in the top leagues in Spain, England, and the U.S. Amorós was coach of Real Betis Féminas from 2021 – 22 and led them to a club-record unbeaten streak in Spain’s top division. Having stepped into the role of Coach for Gotham FC in late 2022 the results the team are recording prove that he is a top talent.

Back Office – Jill Ellis versus Yael Averbuch West. Two of the most capable General Managers in the NWSL. Ellis, obviously a two time world cup winner, knows how to build a team. Averbuch West, took over a flailing Sky Blue / Gotham team and has turned the ship around. A former NWSL player herself, Averbuch is a slow burn of professionalism and knowledge with a pulse closer to the game.

Fans, Stadium, and Social Media – Gotham FC are making every effort to have a big crowd of fans in the stadium. With over 11,000 tickets sold in advance, this will be the biggest match attendance they have had so far this season. The allure of watching Alex Morgan plying her trade is unrivalled. With both teams having strong winning records playing away from home there is very little edge in this regard. 

Above: San Diego Wave’s Alex Morgan. Photo: Chris Stone.