Trixie Tagg: A pioneering legend of women’s football

Impetus EXCLUSIVE by Ben Gilby

Above: Trixie Tagg pictured in a St. George Budapest shirt – her achievements with the club are historic. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Trixie Tagg.

Trixie Tagg is one of the pioneering legends of Australian women’s football. She was a top player in the late 1960s and 1970s, part of the Australian team that played in the first ever Asian Women’s Cup and one of the Matildas’ first head coaches. Without her and those of her generation, the current Australian national side would not be where it is now.

Tagg grew up in Amsterdam, and it was in the Dutch city that she first got bitten by the football bug, and she reflected fondly on her days “playing street football with my friends – all boys – in the late 1950s until 1962 when we emigrated to Australia. Plus of course, listening to the radio and watching some football on TV with my dad.”

Her footballing baptism in Australia came in 1967 at the Sydney Prague Club, as she takes up the tale. “We were welcomed there and our journey began. Their players including Larry Armytage, David Zeeman, Gary Manuel, Dennis Hoggart, Ray Rootsey, and Joe Venglos their Coach encouraged us.

Above: Trixie during her playing days. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Trixie Tagg.

“Our ladies team always trained hard and played some really good football. Our Coach Joe O’Connor and son Kirk always trained with us and we spent hours playing foot tennis in Pat and Joe’s backyard in Bass Hill.

“I remember we played a curtain raiser at Wentworth Park followed by the men’s match. During the men’s match, a male spectator yelled: “Bring the girls back on!” It put a spring in our step and a smile on my face!”

Tagg went on to have a phenomenal record in club football – not losing a match in 12 years. After three years at Sydney Prague, she become part of the legendary St. George Budapest team in the NSW Metropolitan Ladies Soccer Association. It was a period that she rightly looks back on with great pride.

Above: Trixie’s Australia shirt from the inaugural Asian Cup in 1975 along with other memorabilia from the tournament. Photo supplied by Impetus by: Trixie Tagg.

“We needed more and stronger competition and that’s why our team moved to the St. George District where we trained under streetlights at Penshurst Park. We followed the St. George men’s team and I am privileged to say I remain friends with Rale Rasic (the legendary coach who guided Australia’s men’s team to their first-ever World Cup in 1974), Jim Fraser, George Harris, Harry Williams, John Stoddart and Michael Denton. We ended up having a 12-year unbeaten run (three years as Sydney Prague, seven years as St. George and two years as Marconi).

In addition to those incredible successes in club football, in the same period, Tagg and a number of her teammates were part of the Australia team in 1975 competing at the inaugural AFC Asian Women’s Cup. It was the stuff of dreams for this group who will always be in the history books as the pioneers for modern day Matildas.

“Nine of our players played for New South Wales (NSW) and were the 1974 Australian National Champions,” Tagg reflected. “NSW also won the Nationals in 1976, 77, 79, 80, and 1981 with quite a few of our team members.

Above: New South Wales’ squad for the first-ever Interstate women’s football tournament. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Trixie Tagg.

“For the 1975 Asian Womens Cup, we needed and received official permission from the men’s ASF (Australian Soccer Federation) at a full soccer meeting in Sydney with representatives from all the States. Sir Arthur George was the President and Brian Le Fevre the Secretary. We could not have participated without that permission. This also included wearing the official green and gold jersey with the embroidered coat of arms. I still treasure mine!”

Australia went through the group stage after beating Singapore 3-0 and losing to Thailand 3-2 before going down 3-2 to New Zealand in the semi-finals. The inaugural Matidlas would defeat Malaysia 5-0 in the third-place play-off in Hong Kong. Tagg scored in the tournament and won an Asian All-Stars badge at the end of the event.

“I have so many fond memories including the pride we felt wearing the Australian uniform, especially at the opening ceremony; playing in front of 12,000 spectators; scoring three goals and being selected in the 1975 Asian All Stars alongside our Captain Pat O’Connor, Christel Abenthum, Connie Byrnes and Julie Dolan. Sadly the promised tours of Europe did not eventuate.”

Above: The scene at the opening ceremony of the first-ever Asian Women’s Cup in 1975. Thailand and Hong Kong also took part. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Trixie Tagg.

However, what did eventuate was Tagg being offered the chance to become head coach of the Matildas in the 1980s. “I was in the right place at the right time,” she revealed. “I had enjoyed doing coaching clinics with Rale Rasic, Dennis Hoggart, Raoul Blanco, Kevin Keegan, and Jim Selby. Jim was the National Coach but was unavailable for the 1981 tour of New Zealand. He put in a good word for me and our all-female party did Australia proud. To this day I still love us Aussies beating the Kiwis in any sport!”

Tagg is hugely passionate about those achievements, and spoke about “the camaraderie, resulting in lifelong friendships.” She feels “pride in having helped start women’s football in Australia and contributing as a player, coach, administrator, and referee. Additionally, she has contributed to Zone, Regional, and Combined High Schools boys ‘football for more than 20 years, including as a selector. I am so proud when I see their names on the Joeys and Socceroos lists.”

Despite her historic achievements and status in Australian women’s football, she told me that she was not asked to be involved in the nation’s bid for the World Cup or any of the subsequent events since it was awarded to Australia and New Zealand. Nor has she got any tickets for the event.

Above: Left to right – Trixie Tagg, Sue Binnes, and Lynn McKenzie at Sydney Airport after arriving home from the first ever Asian Women’s Cup. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Trixie Tagg.

“I tried for more than an hour to buy a ticket online but was ‘stuck in the waiting room’. I gave up and will be watching it on TV.”

When it comes to building on hosting a World Cup, for Tagg, her priority for a World Cup legacy in Australia is: “Make participation in football more affordable.”

Trixie Tagg is a pioneering legend of the Australian game. It was an honour to be able to interview her. If anyone deserves to be among the front and centre dignatories at the World Cup Final in Sydney it is her.

NWSL: Bats unleashed: Can Gotham swarm Washington Spirit?

Denise Duffy and Jonathon Hagger combine to provide a detailed preview of Washington Spirit’s game against Gotham FC, plus we report on Gotham’s newly announced link up with Benfica (25/5/23).

Above: Jenna Nighswonger celebrates scoring for Gotham FC. Photo: Devon Cafaro / Gotham FC.

Gotham FC, previously the bottom dweller of the NWSL, has surprised everyone by securing the top spot entering round nine. Following a remarkable 4-1 triumph over the OL Reign, the team has now earned the status of a genuine contender in the league.

Their next challenge is against the Washington Spirit, a team that endured a similar struggle last year but has now climbed to tie for second place in the league standings. The simultaneous rise of these two teams exemplifies the unpredictable nature of the NWSL.

Lynn Williams describes experiencing feelings of happiness each time she steps on the pitch. It seems that it is infectious as the Gotham FC team is using it as its engine.

“With soccer, no matter how much pressure we put on ourselves and how much stress we put on ourselves, at the end of the day it’s a child’s game, it’s supposed to be played with joy and happiness.” said forward Lynn Williams.

Washington Spirit will be looking to bounce back from a surprising 2-1 loss to the Orlando Pride. This match will be played at Spirit’s home ground of Audi Park on Sunday 28th May.

TEAM COMPARISONS

Washington started the 2023 season in fine form notching up four wins and three draws through their first seven games. The most recent 2-1 upset loss against the Orlando Pride will have the players and coaching staff eager to make amends for last week’s effort.

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 4-1 win. This is in stark contrast to the team who finished last in 2022. Gotham midfielder Delanie Sheehan commented on Gotham’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.”

Both teams enter the match with the exact same goal differentials – each team has scored eleven goals and conceded seven goals through eight rounds of play.

Gotham FC’s coach has mastered the coaching of the 4-3-3 formation which is the predominant way that the side lineup each match. Given the amazing depth of player talent in the squad, Coach Amoros has taken to switching players from week to week, knowing that he can rely upon whoever he selects to deliver a top-quality performance.

“We always talk about how competitive our training environment is, how much the players fight for those positions,” Gotham FC coach, Juan Carlos Amorós said.

Above: Bruninha gets a shot away for Gotham FC. Photo: Devon Cafaro / Gotham FC.

Often the right player in the right place at the right time, Bruninha is one that is making a name for herself in this league sprinkled with Brazilians. While her physical stature is small her presence on the field is making waves. Scoring her first goal of the season in her last match, she will be hungry to contribute more top-drawer performances to the team as she looks to be at her very best form as she lines up for Brazil in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The outcome of this match hinges upon the midfield’s ability to control the match’s tempo and rhythm. Gotham boasts a dynamic midfield composed of strong leaders, who will attempt to assert their dominance in terms of possession. Some players to watch

  • Jenna Nighswonger – Forward/Defender. Nighswonger was a draft pick selection for Gotham FC and she has slotted into a very mature squad. There is little doubt that Nighswonger has found her sweet spot in the team, surrounded by the best of the best, resulting in her delivering results. She scored a contender for goal of the season in her last match firing the ball from well outside the goal area, putting the ball cleanly past the Reign keeper. Our eyes are fully on her to continue to swarm the goal.
  • Taylor Smith – Forward. Smith is over her days of coaches putting her into the wrong position. At forward, Taylor dominates the front field and completes the triangle of terror that is the Gotham FC attack. Smith has started and played the full 90 minutes for four matches, contributing to the scoring statistics with one goal and one assist.
  • Ali Krieger – Winning is sharpening up Krieger. Look for her to continue leading and making decisive plays. With a creative Washington Spirit coming at her, she will need to get her positioning right and her motor on. 

Washington Spirit are a team still working on their chemistry and on-field partnerships.

  • Ashley Hatch – Forward. Hatch is a prolific goal scorer. If she is switched on, Hatch can be a real problem for Gotham, especially in the air. A member of Washington’s squad attempting to make the USWNT, Hatch will hope Vlatko is watching.
  • Ashley Sanchez – Midfielder. Creative genius on the pitch. Sanchez will also be hungry to take down Gotham. 
  • Sam Staab – Defender. Former A-Leaguer, Staab is a mainstay of the Washington backline. She’s also proven she can score some herself. She finished all eight matches this season.

The Spirit’s secret weapon this weekend could well be the huge wave of fan support they get when playing at home. With an average home game attendance of 10,000 supporters, they will need to bring the energy to lift their team’s spirits (pun intended!).

What to expect in this match –

  • Gotham FC’s impressive record of four away wins establishes them as the favourite. In contrast, the Spirit have recorded two wins both at home and away. The difference between these two teams lies in Gotham FC’s converting opportunities into victories.
  • Lynn Williams vs Trinity Rodman. These two superstars of the women’s game line up against each other and it will be as exciting a matchup as they come. Rodman has accrued almost twice as many shot-creating actions than Williams, however, Williams has made twice as many tackles.

THE EDGE

Red = Denise. Orange = Jonathon.

Keeper – Abby Smith (probable) or Mandy Haught (possible) vs Aubrey Kingsbury. Coach Amoros has demonstrated that he is happy to switch around his starting players. It is very likely that Abby Smith will start as her form in goal suits the high press style of play that Gotham implements. Kingsbury has the best shots saved percentage in the NWSL with more than 80% of shot attempts not finishing in the goal. The Gotham FC forwards will need to be creative in front of goal to get around Kingsbury. 

We are split. Kingsbury has something to prove right before the World Cup. She could make the USWNT as the third keeper. Jonathon gives the checkmark to Abby Smith. She’s been brave and unafraid to put her body on the line.

Backline – Amber Brooks, Sam Staab, Tara McKeown, Gabrielle Carle.  With a non-stop commitment to winning the ball, Carle is having a year. The Spirit are going to need their entire defensive line to contribute in defence and in playmaking if they want to get a win. Giving a slight nod to Washington.

Midfield – The Spirit have lined up in a few different formations however they have settled into a heavily defensive midfield with two strikers upfront. This formation provides opportunities to transition from defence into attack with an emphasis on maintaining possession. Andi Sullivan will need to have a solid game controlling the pace and possession of the match. Gotham have demonstrated a willingness to exploit openings on the wings with Farrelly and Mewis providing quality passes to strikers to get shots on. We are choosing Gotham to win the midfield.

Front Line – Spirit’s stars of Hatch, Rodman, and Sanchez need to have quality on the ball and off to win this. No doubt they have it. Gotham’s Lynn Williams will be putting in a shift to get it done and put a stake in the ground around which team is the real deal. The form that Williams has been playing with so far this season gives her an edge in this matchup.

Coaching – Laura Harvey v Juan Carlos Amorós. Like all the elements of this match, the two coaches are difficult to separate in terms of an advantage. Harvey has a team of hardworking stars and Amorós has a team full of experience and class. Edge goes to Harvey. I think she will have no problem motivating her team in front of their hometown fans at Lumen Field as she directs them from her water cooler.

Back Office – An article about the Washington Spirit cannot go by without a mention of Michele Kang. After her takeover of the Washington Spirit last year, Kang is becoming the majority owner of OL Groupe’s Olympique Lyonnaise Féminin, historically the biggest brand in women’s football. Powerful female owners in football are a thing now. She’s writing her own book on how to do it. One key choice she made was the re-hiring of Mark Parsons into the league, a person who knows how to win in the NWSL.

Fans, Stadium and Social Media – Now that the Audi Field curse is squarely in the rearview mirror, the advantage has to go to the hometown side. The Spirit Squadron is one of the most thoughtful and active supporter groups out there. Advantage DC.

Gotham FC announce link-up with Benfica

Above: Benfica and Gotham FC are partnering up. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Gotham FC.

SL Benfica, one of the world’s most historic and best-known football clubs, and Gotham FC, the top-ranked club in the National Women’s Soccer League, yesterday announced a transformative partnership aimed at advancing women’s soccer development and expanding their global reach. 

As Gotham FC affiliates with one of the top clubs in Europe known for player development, Gotham FC will have access to the knowledge and world-renowned methodologies of SL Benfica, which boasts one of the best youth academies in the world. Through collaboration and shared expertise, Gotham FC can enhance its player development systems and further strengthen the club’s competitive edge in the NWSL. 

SL Benfica, with a focus on strategic positioning in the vibrant Portuguese community of New Jersey and New York, aims to deepen its roots in the region and tap into the rich reservoir of talent and passion for football. 

In addition to creating future player transaction opportunities, the partnership also opens potential avenues for growth, collaboration, and business opportunities off the pitch. 

Through this partnership, SL Benfica is poised to gain invaluable knowledge and insights from the North American women’s soccer landscape. By closely studying the advancements and best practices in women’s football in the region, Benfica seeks to enhance its own player development programs and strengthen its position as a leader in talent development on a global scale. 

One of the key elements of the collaboration is the establishment of a preference agreement, enabling Benfica to identify and recruit talented players from Gotham FC to play in Europe. This mutually beneficial arrangement offers exceptional opportunities for young players to gain exposure, develop their skills, and potentially thrive in the European football market, through this new pathway created.

Additionally, the partnership presents an array of communication opportunities that will allow both clubs to leverage the strength of each other’s brand. SL Benfica aims to gain international leverage in the rapidly growing women’s football market, while Gotham FC can tap into Benfica’s prestige and reputation as a powerhouse in European football. 

“Benfica can benefit a lot from this partnership because women’s soccer in the U.S. is very advanced, with millions of federated players. With the investment that Benfica has made we believe that we will reach higher levels in women’s soccer and this partnership and relationship with the USA will contribute to that”, said Bernardo Faria de Carvalho, Global Expansion Director at Benfica. 

Kerr to return home to Western Australia with the Matildas

by Ben Gilby (25/5/23)

Above: She’s coming home to play at last in WA – Matildas captain and local icon Sam Kerr. Photo: Football Australia.

It was confirmed today that for the first time in five years, Australia will play international football in Western Australia, the home state of the nation’s all-time top scorer Sam Kerr.

HBF Park, the home of Perth Glory, will stage all the matches in Group A qualifying of the second stage of the women’s Asian Qualifiers for the Paris Olympics Football tournament.

From 23rd October – 1st November 2023, Perth will be the location for Australia to take on some of Asia’s best nations in Chinese Taipei, FIFA Women’s World Cup-bound Philippines, and Iran in a round-robin tournament.

This year’s Asian Qualifiers will also be the first-ever competitive Matildas matches hosted in Western Australia. The state has a long history of producing Matildas from the earliest days, from the pioneering Sandra Brentnall and Tracey Wheeler to current squad members Sam Kerr and Lydia Williams.

Above: A young Sam Kerr in action for Perth Glory against Canberra United. Photo: Wikipedia.

Speaking about today’s news, Matildas’ captain and West Australian superstar, Sam Kerr, said: “Everyone knows how proud I am to be from Perth and WA so to be able to come home again with my teammates will be a really special moment. West Aussies are big sports lovers and some of the best fans in the world, they bring amazing support for the teams that they love, and I know they will give us that same energy as we start our Olympic qualification.” 

Kerr’s most recent competitive football match in her home state came back in 2019 when she played the last of her 49 games for Perth Glory, a club she made her debut for in 2008 at the age of 15, the beginning of a period that saw her score 52 goals in the club’s purple and orange colours.

The star’s first club, at the age of 12 was Western Knights, based in Mosman Park just three miles from her home in East Fremantle. Within three years, the striker had attended trials for Western Australia’s state team and then moved across to Perth Glory. In two spells with the club, Kerr led the Glory to two W-League Grand Finals and won the Julie Dolan Medal as the best player in the W-League twice.

Whilst Kerr is a global superstar, she is an absolute living legend in Western Australia. Given the freedom of the city of Perth last year, she is the only soccer player, male or female, to have one of her shirts hung in the Western Australia Museum Boola Bardip along with the shirts of the state’s countless Australian Rules and cricket heroes. She also has a huge mural painted in her honour in her home city of Fremantle.

Above: Impetus chief editor Ben Gilby in front of the giant mural in honour of Sam Kerr in Fremantle. Photo: Author’s collection.

Speaking at the announcement today, Western Australia state Premier Mark McGowan said: “Sam Kerr is a global football superstar and truly a sporting icon – she’s an incredible role model for Western Australians and we can’t wait to welcome her back to her home ground.”

The Asian Qualifiers will see six matches played across three different match days with the Matildas commencing their qualification campaign against Iran on 26th October 2023. Three days later they will meet the Philippines, before concluding their group schedule against Chinese Taipei on 1st November.

Groups B and C will also complete their qualifiers during the same period with the three group winners and the best-ranked runners-up progressing to Round Three. This stage will take place on 24th and 28th February 2024 with the winners of the two home-and-away series bound for Paris.   

The Paris 2024 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament will be held from 24th July to 10th August 2024 across France featuring 12 nations competing for the coveted Olympic Gold Medal. 

Ticketing information for the matches in Perth, kick-off times and broadcast details will be confirmed in the coming weeks, The Matildas’ three matches will be broadcast on Network 10 and streamed live on Paramount+.

Ticketing information will be made available from the official Matildas website at www.matildas.com.au as well as www.ticketmaster.com.au

Above: Perth’s HBF Park – location for the Matildas’s October qualifying matches for the Olympic Games. Photo: HBF Park.

South Melbourne continues to climb and Barbieri boosts Box Hill

NPLW Victoria Round 10

By Kieran Yap (22/5/23)

Above: Danielle Wise scores for South Melbourne against Southern United. Photo: Passion Creations.

Box Hill United recorded their second win of the season, Danielle Wise continued to find the net, and another Matilda joined the league in Round 10 of the Victorian NPLW.

Bulleen Lions 1-1 Calder United

Saturday night’s game headlined the week’s matches. This was the first meeting of the two clubs since last season’s Grand Final, and both teams looked slightly different.

Calder United dominated on the final day of last season but were missing many of the stars who lifted the trophy in 2022. Alana Cerne will return and is currently away with the Australian Under 23s. The Taranto twins are expected to enjoy a rest during the A-League off-season, but Raquel Derales started up front for Calder United.

Bulleen started with numerous A-League stars in the line-up. Paige Zois returned to the first 11, and in a surprise to many, was joined by fellow Melbourne Victory star and capped Matilda Beattie Goad.

It was a special occasion for The Lions. Pre-match they celebrated the 100th appearances of Alex Natoli and Emily Shields. The pair were presented to applause before taking their places on the pitch. It was a wonderful moment for two servants and stars of the club.

Bulleen started stronger. With Maja Markovski and Alana Jancevski in attack, they looked dangerous, while Goad’s dribbling was menacing, direct, and unpredictable.

Despite this, Calder scored the opening goal. They pressed well in attack, forcing Shields into a hasty clearance. The ball was worked back into the box and eventually fell to Ava Groba on the edge of the area. Her first-time effort squirmed past Shields to give the visitors a 1-0 lead in the 16th minute.

It took until the 70th minute to find a deserved equaliser. Zois and Tiffany Eliadis combined to provide Jancevski with half an opportunity in front of goal. That is all the Perth Glory star needs, and her well-placed effort bounced in off the left-hand post. Bulleen had control of most of the game and almost got the win through Eliadis on two occasions. Both times, Natalie Picak denied her with strong close-range saves.

The balance for both these sides now is to reintegrate their top tier talent while maintaining the chemistry built over the first 10 weeks.

For Calder, Groba and Bella Sewards were both excellent and looked beyond comfortable against their highly decorated opposition. Bulleen played some sparkling football and were unlucky not to finish with three points.  The draw leaves Calder in eighth place, but only goal difference is keeping Bulleen out of the top four.

Preston Lions 0-1 Bayside United

Bayside United’s strong form continued with a win away to Preston Lions. It only took one goal to settle the result, but what a goal it was!

After regaining possession at the halfway line, a series of quick passes resulted in Julia Budiongo slipping the ball wide to Kayla Deaver.

The angle and distance was more suited for a cross, but Deaver caught everybody by surprise with an incredible strike that flew into the top corner. Preston had chances, but Bayside United are finding ways to get draws from losing position and wins from tough contests.

The win, keeps them in the top four, with a stronger goal difference than Bulleen. The fixtures do not get easier next week for either side. Bayside will head west to face Calder United, while Preston will travel to meet a Box Hill United side that has just found form.

Alamein 0-3 Box Hill United

Box Hill United have been fun to watch this season, they have some exciting attackers and are a hard side to keep a clean sheet against. Highlights do not automatically equal points though, and they have found wins hard to come by in the first nine weeks of this season.

Alamein have started the season strong and came into this round in second place on the ladder. They would have been confident of a win against the second-bottom side in the league, but Box Hill had a couple of aces back in their deck.

Sofia Sakalis and Melinda J Barbieri formed a brilliant playmaking duo last season and returned to the club for Round 10. In the 24th minute, Barbieri showed her class to give her side the lead.

From a Box Hill throw-in, the ball bounced off Anais Joesfi and Sakalis outside of the area. The onrushing Barbieri met it on the full and volleyed home an incredible opening goal for the match and her 2023 campaign.

Sakalis doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 38th minute. She had earned the spot kick herself after turning cleverly on a loose ball and being clipped from behind. It was clever movement from the playmaker, she would have either spun into space or drawn the foul. Alamein found the penalty to be dubious, but it was the sort of attacking craft that Box Hill have been needing this season.

The third goal came from a familiar source. Anais Josefski broke through after a pass from Asuka Doi and raced close to goal before firing home the sealer in the 82nd minute.

The result saw Alamein slip to third place, but It was an impressive display from Box Hill United who showed that they have the talent the change the narrative of their season.

Boroondara-Carey Eagles 3-2 FV Emerging

Margot Robbine’s hattrick kept Boroondara ontop of the table despite an exciting challenge by FV Emerging.

The youngsters from the state NTC were impressive in the first half and looked threatening whenever they went into attack. Borooondara have been the league’s in-form team, but they can be scored against and Emerging were looking to test them at every opportunity.

It was the speed of winger Alana Cortellino that create the opening goal in the shadows of halftime. A long ball forward broke for Cortellino who took an extra touch into space before laying it on a platter for Emily Keppens to tap home with composure.

The goal boosted Emerging’s confidence, but sparked Boroondara into action. Minutes after conceding, The Eagles had a stunning equaliser.

After rolling her marker Robbine cut inside and from long range fired a shot that looked almost unsavable. The French attacker had looked to be injured earlier in the half but showed no signs of a complaint, her pace opened up the space and her technique did the rest.

Kurea Okino came close to taking the lead for Boroondara in the opening minutes of the second half. She found space in the box and controlled a bouncing cross before lifting the ball just over the crossbar.

It was Emerging who struck next. Carina Rossi’s through ball put Keppens into space and her calmness in front of goal was on display again. She slid the ball home to regain the lead for the visitors in the 51st minute.

An unfortunate attempt to play the ball out from defence gifted Robbine with her second. She intercepted the ball 20 yards from goal and burst through to finish from close range. Emerging were playing positive football, but as Heidelberg United discovered, Boroondara show no mercy from even the slightest chance.

Okini did not add to her 14 goals so far this season but did set up a 71st-minute winner and Robbine’s third of the night.

Okino’s persistence won the ball in attack, and she raced along the by-line before whipping it across goal for Robbine to score into an empty net.

Boroondara’s reign at the top of the league continues. They are winning close contests and creating their own luck. Weeks ago, they had looked slightly one-dimensional with Okino in dominant form, now they have Robbine alongside her and few teams have the pace and tenacity to match both.

South Melbourne 2-0 Southern United

South Melbourne climbed to second on the ladder after a convincing win over Southern United.

Francesca Iermao made her first start for the season after a campaign with Western United. New signing Meisha Westland started for the second time in midfield.

The winger had been deployed mostly as a fullback during the A-League season but sent a reminder of what she can do in attack with the opening goal of the game.

Sophie Papatsanis and Dragana Kljajic combined to feed Iermano and she rifled home her effort from 18 yards to give South Melbourne 17th minute lead.

Danielle Wise gave the home side a two-goal cushion in the second half. A sweeping move from defence found Tayla Christensen on the wing. She played in a low, aggressive cross into the box and Wise accelerated with perfect timing to meet the ball and tap it beyond the keeper.

The two goals were enough and South Melbourne looked in control for much of this game. Westland has adapted instantly, Iermano has lost none of the magic, and Wise is in the same electric form that she was for Heidelberg last season.

There is plenty of football left to play, but South Melbourne continue to grow into the season from an increasingly strong position.

Table From: NPLW Victoria.

The View From France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the 21st round of 2022-2023 D1 Arkema season (23/5/23).

Above: Emotion overcomes Signe Bruun after she scores Olympique Lyonnais’ championship-winning goal. Photo: Damien LG.

Paris Saint-Germain 0–1 Olympique Lyonnais

Olympique Lyonnais won their 16th D1 Arkema title by winning 1-0 against Paris SG in Paris’s Parc des Princes stadium in front of 18,900 spectators.

Lyon had multiple opportunities to score in the first half starting in the third minute when Ada Hegerberg attempted a lob from 35 metres out. The PSG defence delivered a great performance to repel Lyon and throughout the first half, and the visitor’s pressure did not allow Paris SG’s players to play their usual game at all.

The second half was more even with both teams creating plenty of chances without scoring. And then on 88 minutes, substitute Amel Majri, who had only joined the game two minutes before, delivered a perfect cross to Signe Bruun who headed home the winner.

A worry though for Delphine Cascarino who was replaced on 55 minutes because of an injury to her right knee. We will know this week if she will be fit for the World Cup. Goal: Lyon – Signe Bruun (88).

Next week, on Saturday 27th May, Lyon’s players will be able to party with their fans in Groupama stadium for the last game of the season with their 10th Coupe de France and their 16th D1 Arkema title.

Reims 3-1 Dijon

Reims secured sixth place in the table with this comfortable win which included two goals from Melchie Dumornay who will be playing for Lyon next year. Dijon can still mathematically save their place but they face a Montpellier side who are playing for third spot and so it will be difficult, even at home. Goals: Reims – Melchie Dumornay (4, 69), Rofiat Imuran (89). Dijon – Maria Diaz (52).

Guingamp 2-1 Rodez

A narrow win for Guingamp that means Rodez are still not sure of D1 Arkema football next season. They are level on points with Dijon – the positive thing for Rodez is that they have a better goal difference: -28 versus -42 for Dijon. Goals: Guingamp – Eloïse Sévenne (17 Own Goal), Anissa Lahmari (77 Penalty). Rodez – Océane Saunier (27).

Paris FC 5-2 Soyaux

Paris FC were the dominant side, and the final score reflects their efficiency in attack. Soyaux are now surely relegated to D2. Ouleymata Sarr scored a D1 Arkema hat-trick for the first time since 2018. Goals: Paris FC – Ouleymata Sarr (20, 33 Penalty, 64), Clara Matéo (82), Mathilde Bourdieu (89). Soyaux – Laura Bourgoin (28), Morgane Belkhiter (72).

Above: Paris FC players celebrate their win over Soyaux. Photo: Paris FC.
Bordeaux 1-1 Fleury

In a very even game with several opportunities for both teams, neither was able take the lead at the end. Fleury could be disappointed as they should have had a penalty at the 54th minute. With this draw, Fleury let Paris FC move three points ahead of them and are now fifth in the standings, one point behind Montpellier. Goals: Bordeaux – Maëlle Garbino (83). Fleury – Marine Dafeur (76).

Montpellier 2-1 Le Havre

The run for the third qualifying spot in the Champions League is not finished yet. Montpellier’s win in this close game takes them into fourth place – two points behind Paris FC and one ahead of Fleury. Goals: Montpellier – Maelys Mpomé (78), Faustine Robert (90+7). Le Havre – Silke Demeyere (53). 

 

Scottish Weekend Wrap

from Tom Freeman (23/5/23)

Above: Rossvale (black) in action during their excellent win at SWF Championship winners Livingston. Photo: Alex Todd/Sportpix.

SWF Championship

Glasgow side Rossvale have gained the upper hand in the race for a play-off spot to gain entry to SWPL 2.

In the last Sunday for the Scottish Women’s Championship which saw Livingston lift the trophy, Renfrew Ladies were beaten by Ayr United while Rossvale beat the champions 2-1 at the Tony Macaroni Arena to move into second.

Renfrew now face their rivals at home tonight (Tuesday) knowing only a win will do, in a match rearranged due to an abandonment of the game on the 14th May because of a serious injury to Renfrew player Aimee Morrison. Renfrew have announced entry to the match will be free, with a 7:45 kick-off at New Western Park.

The side which finishes second will face Stirling University at Broadwood Stadium on Sunday 4th June for a place in the SWPL 2.

Elsewhere in the Championship, Dryburgh Athletic and Inverness Caledonian Thistle ended their seasons on a high with wins over Morton and Hutchison Vale respectively.

Biffa SWFL

Above: Forfar Farmington lift the Biffa SWFL North trophy. Photo: Mal Turnbull.

In the regional Biffa SWFL, Forfar Farmington clinched the North league with a 6-2 win at Stonehaven.

The league title marks a recovery for the club that withdrew from the SWPL in 2021 and will now host Bonnyrigg Rose in the play-offs for a place in the national SWF League One.

The Midlothian side secured second place in SWFL East with a 3-0 victory over McDermid Ladies, and enter the play-offs because title winners Livingston Reserves don’t qualify for promotion as a development side of a club already in the national leagues.

The other play-off will see South league winners Queen of the South host West champions Harmony Row on the 4th June with the losers of both games facing each other at a neutral venue on the following Sunday for the third and final place in the national leagues.

Norfolk Weekly Wrap

Darrell Allen rounds up all the women’s football action in Norfolk over the past week (23/5/23).

Above: Millie Daviss and Anna Larkins lift the Norfolk Women’s Cup for Norwich City. Photo: Ben Cunningham.

Norfolk Women’s Cup Final

On Friday night, tier four Norwich City eventually defeated Mulbarton Belles from three leagues below 3-0 at Carrow Road. After a goalless first half, goals from Ceri Flye, Katie Knights, and Olivia Cook saw the favourites claim the victory. It was a fitting finale for both manager Shaun Howes and the club’s physical preparation coach Matt Stebbings, with both men leaving the club following this game.

Norfolk Women and Girls’ League Division One

Less than 48 hours after their cup final against Norwich City, Mulbarton Belles were in action again as they beat Caister 7-3 at The Allendale thanks to a hat-trick from Annie Smith, a brace from Sophie Jermy and one each from Rebekah Lake and Eloise Peek. Caister’s goals came from Ellie Blaxell, Sam Hunn, and Beth Turner.

In the day’s other game, the University of East Anglia recorded their first league win since November by beating Stalham Town 2-1 thanks to goals from Freya Standing and Tegan Collier with Stalham’s reply coming from Emma Macmillan.

Above: Jordan Arnoup (centre) leads the celebrations as Aylsham secured the Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two title on Thursday night.
Photo: Ben Cunningham.

Norfolk Women and Girls’ League Division Two

On Thursday night, Aylsham secured the title with a 3-0 win at Thorpe St. Andrew with their goals coming from Jordan Arnoup, Rhiannon Dack, and Sophie Lubbock.

Meanwhile, in Sunday’s three games, there was a staggering 21 goals. Thorpe St. Andrew responded to Thursday’s defeat with a 5-1 victory over Horsford in what was Thorpe manager Tony Allen’s last game in charge. Sarah Rooke scored a hat-trick with Tabitha Mileham adding two. Maisie Nichols scored for Horsford.

Jordan Turner scored four as King’s Lynn Soccer Club beat Shrublands 8-0, the other four goals coming from Viktorija Burkauskaite, Lucy Clarke, Taeya Mayes, and Trinity Tokaji.

Kiera Brown netted five in North Walsham Town’s 6-1 win over Bulldogs FC, the other North Walsham goal was scored by Rio Dobbie with Niamh Underhill scoring for Bulldogs.

Above: Smiles all round as Thorpe St Andrew beat Horsford 5-1 to win Tony Allen’s final game in charge. Photo: Thorpe St. Andrew FC.


Hastings United v Herne Bay Photo Gallery

Jon Smalldon was at the Pilot Field to capture all the action as well as a brief report from this tier six London & South-East Division One South encounter (22/5/23).

Above: Celebration time for Herne Bay yesterday. Photo: Jon Smalldon for Impetus.

Hastings Town 3-2 Herne Bay

A penalty from player-of-the-match Rubie Harris was the difference in this five-goal thriller at the Pilot Field.

Hastings, looking to end the season and bid farewell to manager Billy Wood with a win raced to a 2-0 lead inside the opening fifteen minutes before being pegged back after halftime. Both sides had plenty of chances in an end-to-end encounter, but it was Harris’s penalty that was decisive.

United finish the season in second, just missing out on promotion, with Herne Bay ending in fifth place.

Teams: HASTINGS UNITED: Bennett, Williams, Harris, Gurr, Creese, Roper, Bellehewe, Sharp, Rogan, Baitup. Substitutes: Muggeridge, Davenport, Staton, Main, Moody.

Scorers: Gurr 4′, Baitup 14′, Harris (pen) 70′.

HERNE BAY: Cooper, Potter, Nugent, Musmeci, Page, Styles, Golos, Maclennan, Brock, Lewis-Taggart, Harris. Substitute: Marsh.

Scorers: Harris 32′, Brock 64′.

Referee: Ken Brook.

Attendance: 291.

Aston Villa v Liverpool Photo Gallery

Suvadeep Biswas was at Villa Park yesterday to capture this set of images from the WSL’s six-goal thriller (22/5/23).

Above: Tash Dowie shows her delight after putting Liverpool 2-1 up yesterday. Photo: Suvadeep Biswas for Impetus.

Aston Villa 3-3 Liverpool

Aston Villa and Liverpool shared the points in a game that see-sawed back and forth at Villa Park yesterday.

Kirsty Hanson put Villa ahead after seven minutes but two goals in three minutes saw Liverpool leapfrog the Midlanders to hit the front thanks to Katie Stengel and Tash Dowie. There was still time for Rachel Daly to level matters with her 21st WSL goal in as many games before the break.

Just after the hour mark, Stengel restored Liverpool’s lead, only for Hanson to strike again with 20 minutes remaining. The draw ensures that Aston Villa will finish the season in a best-ever fifth place in the WSL.

Suvadeep Biswas’ EXCLUSIVE photo gallery for Impetus from Villa Park:

Teams: ASTON VILLA (4-3-3): Hampton, Mayling, Patten, Turner, Pacheco, Hanson, Staniforth, Dali, Nobbs, Daly, Lehmann. Substitutes used: Magill (for Nobbs 32′), Allen (for Dali 45+2′), Boye-Hlorkah (for Lehmann 80′).

Scorers: Hanson 7′, 70′. Daly 45+1′.

LIVERPOOL (3-4-1-2): Kirby, Fahey, Bonner, Matthews, Koivisto, Taylor, Nagano, Hinds, Kearns, Stengel, Dowie. Substitutes used: van de Sanden (for Fahey 45′), Roberts (for Koivisto 58′), Kiernan (for Dowie 59′), Lundgaard (for Taylor 59′).

Scorers: Stengel 37′, 62. Dowie 40′.

Referee: Kirsty Dowle.

Attendance: 7,517.