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Grant Scott jumps ship after Celtic beat Hibs with audacious goal directly from kick-off

Hibernian 1-2 Celtic

By Gethin Thurlow at Meadowbank for Impetus (23/12/25)

Above: Grant Scott with the SWPL title in May last year Photo: @Record_Sport on X

Celtic poached the three points and manager from Hibs in what was a blockbuster 24 hours between the clubs.

First of all, Maria McAneny scored an incredible goal directly from the opening kick-off, with Celtic eventually going on to win 2-1 and leave the hosts 13 points behind Glasgow City in their title defence. Then on Monday, Scottish football was rocked as they awoke to the news that Grant Scott had signed a contract with Celtic, as the Hibees received a compensation fee for the contract being broken.

Grant Scott leaves Hibs as a legend for bringing them a first title in almost 20 years, having had cup success in his earlier reign as boss too. Elena Sadiku was the manager to bring Celtic the SWPL title for the first time ever, but times have gone downhill since then and a victory in this game was not enough to save the Swedish manager.

Teams

Still struggling with injuries, Hibs at least had positive news in that Eilidh Adams started a second game in a row after her injury return, while Rachel Boyle started in midfield as she manages her second comeback of the season. Lauren Doran-Barr got another shout at right back ahead of Caley Gibb, while Scarlett Herron kept cementing her place at centre back as Linzi Taylor remains sidelined.

In what would be her final match, Elena Sadiku enjoyed the return of Scotland winger Maria McAneny, putting her straight into the starting lineup. Lisa Robertson and Momo Nakao played together in midfield, with Nakao allowed to press up and really challenge the Hibernian defence. Gallacher and Noonan started together as well, meaning the Irish striker gave Celtic a focal point at the top. Jenny Smith started on the right wing as Morgan Cross was benched.

The Action

The game began in absolutely incredible fashion, as Saoirse Noonan laid off the ball for Maria McAneny, who smashed it straight for the goal. I think everyone in the stadium expected it to fly over the bar, but Noa Schumacher started backtracking and suddenly there was a collective breath held. Despite the Americans’ best efforts, her hands could do nothing to stop the ball from dropping into the top of the goal.

Going behind before they even touched the ball, Hibs’ resilience was tested early on, especially within the context of them dropping points with a draw at Montrose last weekend. They were also challenged by a high Celtic press, with Amy Gallacher and Noonan both carrying the pressing capabilities of strikers, while Momo Nakao is always looking to nip the ball from opponents.

In the first half it was the Hibees on the ball for the majority, but not in the areas they’d like. The visitors had the bets of the chances, with Schumacher making a strong save from McAneny.

Hibs enjoyed success down the right, with winger Hannah Luke at left back, as Kirsty Morrison put up a few crosses. Most of these went to the back post and Rosie Livingstone couldn’t get a touch on them. The most threatening cross was along the ground, and on the stretch Eilidh Adams could only force it wide of the post.

Just before half time, Ciara Grant took a free kick which bounced around the edge of the box for a bit. Eventually it fell to Scarlett Herron, who sliced the ball home on her left foot. Having scored in the Dryburgh 7-0 and last week’s 1-1 draw at Montrose, the Irish centre back is Hibernians most reliable goal scorer at the moment.

The midfield battle was fiercely fought, with Lisa Robertson and Momo Nakao both being defensive minded with a great ability to win the ball back. Ellis Notley and Ciara Grant did the same job for Hibs, while Rachel Boyle played the role of disturber to the front three.

Lisa Rodgers wasn’t called into action too much, aside from a number of shots from outside the box. Schumacher however had a number of tough shots to face. None more so than a penalty from Noonan. Siobhan Hunter had barged into McAneny very late after a pass in the box, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Diving left, the American pushed the initial effort out, but Noonan was right on the rebound and Schumacher could do nothing about it.

They brought Caley Gibb and Tegan Bowie on in the wide areas, soon joined by Tiree Burchill, Hannah Jordan and Jess Fitzgerald as they pushed for an equaliser. Bowie saw a lot of the ball on the left-hand side, as Jordan, Grant and Notley all frantically played in the wingers whenever they could. Lisa Rodgers had to come and strongly claim a few high balls, which she did.

All was not plain sailing however as she struggled to pass out especially when under pressure. Once, she took aim at Kirsty Morrison, who’s long range strike flew past the post.

Looking to secure the win, Celtic turned to Chloe Craig, who made her return from a long-term ACL recovery just two weeks. On the left side of defence, she looked solid and nullified the threats from Burchill and Morrison where she could.

Morgan Cross replaced Noonan and played out of position as the striker. She missed an absolute howler as Hunter was caught on by McAneny on the halfway line, who then ran down and provided the unmarked winger with a perfect chance. It seemed like Cross has too much time to think about it and she ended up skying the chance.

Given the various contentious referee interventions/non-interventions and Celtic’s late time-wasting, there was a large spate of extra time. The whistle was eventually blown however with Hibs unable to find another goal, and in all likelihood the whistle was blown on their title defence.

Player of the Match Maria McAneny

Scoring one of the most audacious and quickest goals in the history of football, Scotland’s newest SWPL debutant was magical from the first (four) seconds in Edinburgh. The acknowledgement of her talent by Melissa Andreatta seems to have brought out extra confidence in McAneny. She was charging up and down that wing like she owned it today, and despite some great defending from Doran-Barr, she ultimately did own it.

Her pace, skill and power have always been there, but this year she’s added some more in-game reading and now can influence games throughout. Sunday’s game was no different, and it was not surprising at all that McAneny was the one to draw a foul for the penalty. Whenever Celtic needed that spark, they turned to her and she continually delivered.

Where this leaves the teams

Hibs suffered another blow in this horrible run of form. Having picked up just 2 points in the last four games, they’ve been outscored by Montrose (5), Partick Thistle (6) and Motherwell (3), as well as the other four professional teams. Injuries and a bad schedule have lined up at the worst possible time for them, and the title winning side has looked a shell of itself without Kathleen McGovern and Linzi Taylor.

Given Glasgow City’s victory later in the day, they are now 13 points clear of the Hibees. While the split does give opportunities for the table to change drastically, that gap is probably too much to close – especially with the Old Firm rivals and Hearts six points closer to City. Hannah Jordan looked good in her cameo, while Scarlett Herron continues to impress at both ends of the pitch, so there are at least some positives looking ahead to the future.

It feels like Hibs were able to accept that the title was gone, and they would take the buy-out money from Celtic and invest it to rebuild this squad. The transfer strategy of this summer was very much focused on bringing in young players, and they will continue to flourish over the next five years. With the entire winter break to find an adequate replacement, this is probably the best in-season time to lose a manager.

It was a massive win Celtic. Since beating Hearts on the opening day, they’d only taken one point off the other professional teams, so coming to Edinburgh and proving they were still at that level was so important for the Glasgow side.

The research was clearly done pre-game to know that Noa Schumacher would be vulnerable to a direct kick-off goal but actually pulling it off is another ball game. If the Ghirls can keep up this form heading into the split, with Rangers still developing under their new manager and questions over Hearts’ ability to sustain a title challenge, they could be the ones to give City a run for the SWPL title.

Grant Scott has experience winning trophies over his two runs at the reigning champions, as well as that glorious title win last year. Without a strong distinctive style of play, Scott will likely assess the squad and build it from that. Key in his plans should be Scotland defender Emma Lawton, McAneny, the dynamic midfielder Momo Nakao – who offers something slightly different than his Hibs players did.

Teams: HIBERNIAN (4-2-3-1) Schumacher, Doran-Barr, Hunter, Herron, Papadopoulos, Notley, Grant, Morrison, Boyle (c), Livingstone, Adams. Substitutes: Gibb (for Doran-Barr 73’), Bowie (for Morrison 73’), Burchill (for Notley 79’), Hannah Jordan (for Adams 79’), Fitzgerald (for Boyle 79’).

Scorer: 1-1 Herron 41’.

CELTIC (4-3-3): Rodgers, Lawton, Clark (c), Walsh, Luke, Nakao, Robertson, Gallacher, Smith, Noonan, McAneny. Substitutes: Cross (for Noonan 73’), Craig (for Gallacher 73’), Westin (for Nakao 81’).

Scorers: 0-1 McAneny 1’, 1-2 Noonan 56’.

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Peters: “I’m really proud of the players” as Perth Glory look ahead to City challenge

by Ben Gilby (23/12/25)

Above: Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters talking to the media today. Image: Perth Glory

Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters is well aware of the challenge his side face in Sunday’s game at Melbourne City, but given that his players have gained two straight victories against teams who have dominated possession against them, he believes they are capable of extending their unbeaten run at AAMI Park.

Those victories against Adelaide United and Wellington Phoenix came with Glory coming out on top despite, at times having significantly less of the ball and territory. Peters recognised: “Adelaide are the second highest in the league for possession, so they are very good at retaining the ball, they’re just not converting it into goals.”

“In my opinion, Wellington are a very good side, and they showed that against Sydney. Those two teams, just because Glory beat them 1-0 doesn’t mean they’re bad sides. They’re good sides, and I think it puts us in good stead going into this game because I think it’s similar characteristics in terms of both those teams…want to dominate the ball, City certainly want to dominate the ball, they’re just a bit more fine tuned in certain areas.

“I’m just really proud of the players who have put us in a position where we can take this challenge on in a good mindset.

“It’s a good platform for us, but we can’t get too excited as we have lots of areas to improve in, and there’s a lot of football in front of us and City are a great challenge for us, and a team we respect highly, but we obviously can’t respect them too much.”

Perth’s focus for Sunday’s showdown will be on maintaining focus and making the bare minimum of mistakes on top of taking chances when they come.

“They (Melbourne City) are an incredible challenge. You always have that game in the back of your mind, particularly in that stadium (AAMI Park), so we’re going to have to be very, very good, both with the ball, and without the ball. (We have to) pay attention to their strengths, but also try and highlight ours.

**Above:** Emma Tovar in action at Sydney FC earlier this season – Stephen Peters hopes to see her back on the pitch this coming Sunday. **Photo:** Ryan Millar-Woods for *Impetus*.

“We just have to be good with our high press. I think it’s something we bring to the table and we’ve got to be competent once we win the football. We have no problem winning the football off teams, it’s just what we do with it from there. I think it’s a little bit of a confidence thing – once we see some tangible outcomes from that, I think we’ll grow from that,” the Glory boss said.

In terms of injury news, Peters is waiting for further details on defender Onyi Zogg, who missed Sunday’s win over Adelaide United.

“It was a precaution to keep her out of that (Adelaide United) game because she was feeling a that quad a little bit, so hopefully the scan comes back good, and that she’s available to play.”

Whilst Zogg joined fellow back liner Naomi Chinnama on the sidelines last weekend, a young locally produced defence featuring Tijan McKenna, Mischa Anderson, and Grace Johnston were impressive, perhaps not surprising given how long the trio have played together in the Western Australian scene, despite their tender years.

Peters also gave an update on captain Izzy Dalton and Emma Tovar’s niggles, stating, “Dalts is going to be an ongoing one, we’re just going to have to keep on looking after her.

“She doesn’t know how to tune it down, she just goes an a hundred miles an hour, which we love about her. Emma, I’m hoping she’s pulled up well. I spoke to her yesterday (Monday) and she feels like she’s pretty good.”

**Above:** Perth Glory’s Grace Johnston – who had another strong showing against Adelaide United. **Photo:** Kris Goman for *Impetus*.

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City snatch late Derby win

Melbourne City 2-1 Melbourne Victory

By Alyce Collett 23/12/2025

Above: Melbourne City celebrate after coming from behind to defeat cross town rivals Melbourne Victory. Photo: via A-Leagues.

Melbourne City have come from behind to defeat crosstown rivals Melbourne Victory 2-1 in a physical and at times fiery Melbourne Derby.

The Victory initially took the lead in the first half thanks to Rhianna Pollicina, but her goal was cancelled out by an own goal from Claudia Bunge before Holly McNamara found a late winner.

As any fan would expect in a Melbourne Derby, there was certainly plenty of action early as both teams tried to use particularly their respective left wings to work themselves into an attacking position. Defensively both teams were very switched on from the get go so it was not always easy for either side to get long, clean passes away.

Players like McNamara and Sofia Sakalis were trying to use their agile footwork to their benefit and navigate their way around the defences, but Rebekah Stott, Taylor Otto, Kayla Morrison and Bunge were proving too tough to navigate around.

Melbourne City did look closest to scoring in the first quarter of the match though, with some very well placed crosses from Danella Butrus and Alexia Apostolakis landing in some very dangerous areas in the box, but thankfully for Victory their defence held strong and was able to clear wave after wave of attack.

Leah Davidson went incredibly close to scoring about halfway through the first half, but an impressive save from Courtney Newbon ensured that it was not the opening goal of the match.

Leticia McKenna also tried a long range shot, but just like Davidson she too could not quite get the angles to work completely in her favour.

However, despite how on top City were, it was Victory who opened the scoring, and poetically it was Pollicina who scored against her old side after slipping the ball past Malena Mieres on an incredibly tight angle.

This goal really turned the game on its head, with Victory punishing City for its inability to finish despite its dominance in terms of time in the attacking third. City were unable to level before the half time break, so the ladders leaders took the upper hand into the half time break.

As the second half began and progressed, City were again the ones to do more of the attacking than Victory, and were eventually rewarded with the equalising goal. Aideen Keane was able to square the ball to in front of the goal, and unfortunately for Victory the ball then ricocheted off Bunge and into the back of the net.

City kept pushing hard for the winner, and with just over five minutes to go they found it through McNamara, who curled a shot beautifully from one corner of the box into the top box on the other side of the net.

Melbourne Victory kept pushing hard for a last minute equaliser and had several corners in the dying minutes but could not make any of them count.

Teams: MELBOURNE CITY (4-4-2): Mieres, Turner, Otto, McKenna, Butrus, Apostolakis, Stott, Uchendu, Keane, Davidson, McNamara. Substitutes: Rako, Jackson, Roestbakken, Sarris, Barbieri, Wilson.

Scorer: Bunge 65′ (OG), McNamara 84′.

MELBOURNE VICTORY (3-4-1-2): Newbon, Bunge, Sakalis, Ray, Furphy, Pollicina, White, Morrison, Jancevski, Pickett, Lowe. Substitutes: O’Grady, Saveska, Curtis, Techera, Young, Woodward.

Scorer: Pollicina 32’.

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello.

Attendance: 1,323.

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Match Preview: Christmas Melbourne Derby

Above: The Melbourne Derby. Image: Melbourne City.

By Alice de Koster-Kitto & Isabelle Campbell (22/12/2025)

Impetus’ Alice de Koster-Kitto and Isabelle Campbell preview Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory’s matchup with quotes from Michael Matricciani and Taylor Otto as well as Jeff Hopkins, Nicki Flannery and Taylor Ray.

Melbourne City

By Alice de Koster-Kitto

Between sporadic fixtures and travel due to AFC Women’s Champions League matches, and their most recent match against Adelaide United being postponed due to an influenza outbreak, it’s been a somewhat unsettled start to the season for Melbourne City, having only played four league matches, in comparison to Melbourne Victory’s eight.

“That’s probably been the one thing, just the flow of league games, but it’s a big match, and what we have been able to do over the last eight or nine days is put a lot of load in conditioning sessions,” said head coach Michael Matricciani

Despite the unusual circumstances, Matricciani is confident that the squad has the capabilities to put their best foot forward and thrive on their perceived adversity during the Melbourne Derby.

“We’ve worked the girls extremely hard; we’re very prepared for this match,” he added

“We can’t focus on that. It’s out of our control. Obviously, we had the Champions League campaign as well, which we missed a couple of games.”

The highly anticipated derby will be City’s first time out at AAMI Park this season, and Matricciani believes that a massive home crowd, and the pressure of coming up against their most heated rival is exactly what the squad needs to get back on track, after a period of uncertainty “I think when we play at AAMI Park, it’s a different aura about it.”

Matricciani expressed his belief in the tactical advantage that a ground such as AAMI Park can bring to his City squad “A team like us that we like to dominate the ball and move the ball around to open up gaps in the opposition, it’s actually easier because it’s harder for the opposition to close the spaces and cover the distance of the ground.” he said, as he looks to capitalise on the teams signature dynamics.

Melbourne City defender Taylor Otto also commented on the squad’s possessive tactics and their focus on perfecting their play following recent losses, and bringing their best game into the derby. “I think we need to be able to close the spaces. We need to be cleaner on the ball. We need to be together more in the way that we’re playing and connecting,” said Otto. “I think for us, really, we know the standard we want to hold. We just have to go back to the drawing board and get back to that,” she added.

“It’s a stressful thing, having an invincible season. But we’ve all spoken about it like that’s a very difficult thing to do, and I don’t think any of us expected to do that again.” said Otto, reflecting on Melbourne City’s 2023/24 ‘invincible’ season, and the expectations to bounce back, as a derby win would be the perfect opportunity to regain that confidence following recent losses.

“I think we just need to believe in ourselves a bit more, have a little bit more confidence, and know the way that we can play in the way that we have played in the past few years,” added Otto

There are a number of essential players who will be left out of the City squad for Tuesday’s derby, with Shelby McMahon having taken a knock to the knee, and Laura Hughes recently undergoing knee surgery.

While Hughes and McMahon have both been instrumental in City’s successes this season, the depth within the squad should be well-equipped to put on the performance they are capable of, despite notable absences.

“We have depth, we have people that can play in different positions. We have all these things on our side. So I think really, we’re just trying to focus on ourselves one game at a time and getting the job done,” said Otto

The last time the two Melbourne sides went head to head, was in February of this year, with the battle ending in a 1-1 draw. The match was massively in favour of Victory after Rachel Lowe’s 5th minute strike, but a last minute goal from former City midfielder Mariana Speckmaier evened the score. Looking back at the clashes history, and the squads current form, it might be expected that Victory will come away with the win. However given the unprecedented circumstances of irregular fixtures, players in and out, and an inconsistent start to the season from both sides, the derby is ultimately anyone’s.

“I think it brings to the game. It’s why we love this. There are these big games, and I think the league is growing. The teams are getting progressively better. These games are getting more competitive. And yeah, you never know who’s gonna win. And I think it’s really great for us,” said Otto.

Melbourne Victory

By Isabelle Campbell

In contrast to Melbourne City’s disrupted schedule, Melbourne Victory enter the A-League Women’s Melbourne Derby with rhythm and momentum on their side, having played eight matches already this season, the most of any team in the league, and coming into the fixture off the back of consecutive wins.

Amid a busy festive period and with limited preparation time between matches, head coach Jeff Hopkins said the atmosphere within the Victory camp has remained upbeat.

“We’re happy. We’ve had a quick turnaround. We’ve had a couple of very light sessions, but very, very intense. And we had a great session this morning. Even wanted to ask to go in the gym afterwards, which just means for us, they’re feeling pretty energized. And we sent them home happy after Kris Kringle.”

With limited time on the training pitch between matches, Hopkins believes Victory’s recent form has allowed the squad to embrace the short schedule heading into the derby.

“We spoke about it last week and said a lot of it depends on how you’re going. We’re going very, very well. The team has moved forward in a lot of areas. So we’re just looking forward to playing.”

Victory’s strong recent form has also been driven by their attacking unit, with forward Nicki Flannery returning from injury and opening her account for the season in the win over Newcastle. She said the momentum built over the past two matches has been key.

“Obviously, the short turnaround is kind of good when you have great momentum. I feel the group is very positive after the two games, especially the one against Newcastle, we felt really dominant. So hopefully we can take that in tomorrow.”

Flannery also highlighted the contrast in preparation between the two sides, with City having played only four matches this season.

“I think, for them, it’s hard because they haven’t got this momentum that we’re fortunate to have this week. I think it’s difficult to prepare for a derby when you’ve got 10/14 days to prepare for it. It’s a lot of time to think about opposition, and how to prepare the bodies. Hopefully, if we just get in their face nice and early, they’ll be a bit worried.”

While Victory’s momentum has been evident, Hopkins remains clear on the challenge City will pose, noting their distinct style and attacking threats.

“You know what you’re going to get from City. They’re a team that likes to keep possession, likes to build from the back, and play through the thirds. They’ve got the ability with Holly McNamara up front, to go direct as well. So there’s always that threat there. I think they play in a way that we understand. We’ve played them a lot over the years.”

Despite City’s recent league loss to Canberra, their first in 651 days, Hopkins insists Victory’s focus remains inward.

“To be honest? It doesn’t bother me. This is the derby, we’re always up for the derby. It’s always a big game for us. How they react, we can’t really do anything about that. We can just react to it out on the field.”

One of Victory’s new signings this season, Taylor Ray, said the squad is still on the hunt for consistency, particularly with players returning from injury.

“I think that is the biggest thing for us. We want to build that consistency going throughout the season. I think it’s been a bit of a tough one, because we’ve had a lot of players coming in and out of the squad with injuries, myself included, some big names like Nicki Flannery as well.”

Ray also pointed to the importance of chemistry and communication within the group as a key focus moving forward.

“I think the biggest thing is taking on that reflection, you know, analyzing the game and just having honest communication, owning up and taking accountability of your mistakes is the first step to getting better.”

With squad depth improving, Hopkins confirmed another boost ahead of the derby, with Sienna Saveska set to likely make her Victory debut.

“Yes, Sienna is in the squad this week… She’s probably good enough to play 45 minutes at least. So she’ll be thereabouts. She’s in the squad.”

Offensively, Victory’s creativity has been flourishing in recent matches, with Flannery highlighting the form of her fellow forwards.

“Early on in the year, we struggled to find the back of the net and create really clear goal scoring chances. I think in the past three games in particular, we’ve had a lot of creativity up front, and that’s starting to gel really nice. [Holly] Furphy has been playing out of her skin. It’s really great to see that we’re creating a lot of goal scoring chances and completing them.”

The derby, though big for all players, will be a milestone for Rhianna Pollicina, who spent four seasons at City before signing with Victory this season. Hopkins spoke about her preparation and motivation ahead of facing her former club.

“I kind of sussed her out over the last few weeks, how much I can kind of stir the pot, but I don’t think I need to at the moment. She’s got her own motivations around playing City, and she’s also got some really good memories of the club, so I don’t want to jump in there and say too much that might go against kind of how she’s preparing for the game. She’s a professional. She knows how to get herself ready for the game, and I know she will perform, and she’ll perform really well, even if I don’t really understand that motivation.”

As Victory prepare to host City, Flannery said the feeling around derby day remains unmistakable, regardless of form or fixture congestion.

“It’s just the unspoken feeling of a rivalry… We just know that there’s that extra bit of happiness when you do beat them.”

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Kyah Simon: “Stick with me” – Exclusive Interview

Above: Kyah Simon in training for Dijon. Image: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

by Jean-Pierre Thiesset (22/12/2025).

Impetus’ Football’s Jean-Pierre Thiesset interviewed Kyah Simon about her latest journey in France and how it compares to the rest of her illustrious career. The striker represents Australia, earning 111 caps and scoring 29 goals. In 2011, Simon became the first Indigenous Australian player to score a goal in a FIFA Women’s World Cup. She signed a 1-year contract with Dijon in the Arkema Première Ligue in October 2025.

Jean-Pierre Thiesset: What drew you to France, and Dijon specifically?

Kyah Simon: For me, I have always been aware of the French league being one of the first league in Europe, but it was quite a random way I guess how it came about. It was through a friend I know, who was an agent; when the Dijon sporting director, who was looking for another striker, got in touch with him and became aware of my situation. At the time I was training and looking myself back up in Sydney. It was, yeah, quite an urgent request to respond and I had to make a decision fairly quickly from being in Sydney with my family and deciding within 24 hours. I think what draws me is obviously knowing France Première League is one of the top leagues in Europe and I wanted to get back in European high-level football. I had a great conversation with Sylvain Carric, Sporting Director, and it just made sense for my career at the time.

JPT: After playing in England, Holland, and the US, how does each league style and standard compare with Australia?

KS: I would say definitely across the board it is very different. I would say in the US obviously it is very athletic and direct.

In Holland, I guess it was a similar experience than to Australia, in terms of level of football there.

In England, I think probably it is definitely out there that there is the highest quality league in the world with the top players they have in terms of well-known players, big names players, and from very different countries.

**Above:** Simon on the ball in training with Dijon. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

I think France is that league that flies under the radar a little bit but with high quality players very technical and tactical winners. It is a very consistent league across the board with obviously top teams like Lyon (OL Lyonnes), which has always been strong for years.

I guess Australian league was involved in changes during the last years from when a lot of the core of us experienced players were in the league. Now there are more young players coming through, which is great for development, but I think obviously the experience from either over the world or different national teams is important and there is not much of that now in the league.

JPT: After some injury hit seasons, how are you feeling, and has the change of environment helped?

KS: Yeah, for me I definitely felt like I needed a change in environment being back in a really professional environment here in Dijon club in terms of the facilities and the set up and being a full-time professional football player. Dijon offered that to me and coming from the A-League I think for me it was just time to change the environment. I had a difficult couple of years with injuries, and it has been a real challenge and struggle for me to just find some rhythm and momentum, and I think the first thing was to be in the highest professional environment that will take care of me first and foremost and then built step by step.

You know, coming here first in Dijon, there will always be a teaming period and having to settle in a new environment in a non-English country (laugh). There are a lot of challenges that come in place, but the one cool thing is that every day I wake up and I am really excited to looking forward to coming to the club. I want to put in the work and get myself back to the best form that I know I can and have patience with myself at the same time. I just cannot expect it to happen overnight but knowing that I got the full support of the club and everyone here has just really settled me and is taking those baby steps with me, hopefully I have a very good feeling. So, I think that it has been very good to have understanding, feel understood as well and know what it takes to help me get back to my best.

**Above:** Simon warms up. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

JPT: Have you had any contact from Joe Montemurro since he took over the Matildas job?

KS: Yes, I have, we talked a few times, and he said that going to Dijon was a good option for me. Again, it is the same as everyone else, it is just about playing and getting back matches minutes which I think ultimately that is the goal for everyone.

He is a great guy, and I had a few conversations with him. Ultimately it is about getting match minutes, and it is the goal for me and for everyone involved and whatever happens from those match minutes will happen you know. Until I got back on the pitch and got regular minutes that is the key to everything.

JPT: There has been a lot of talk recently about how successfully the A-League Women built on having the 2023 World Cup played in Australia. What would you like to see happen to further develop the competition?

KS: Yeah, look, after the World Cup I think we do not capitalize as much on the tournament. I think it was a missed opportunity. Salary is the number one thing for players to be able to be on full-time contract and to have a long enough season where you have a preseason and off-season period. Again, I mean the wages need to increase.

Also, it should be an all-around the year competition because until you have that, numerous players, majority in each team, have a different job or need to work elsewhere. Until you do not have the players on full-time wages and they do not have to have another job, they will always be splitting interest, and it is not ideal for training time. So, there is so much that flows on from that, that high salary with full-time contract and more support and resources around the league are necessary.

I think until you have that, the product itself will never be taken seriously and be attractive to compete with European leagues. You cannot compete with any other leagues until I guess you put those measures in place. Right now, it is an easy decision for Australian players to go oversea where they will be on a full-time season salary. In Australia a lot of players are left in limbo during the off-season period and are playing in a lower level trying to make money. Some players are not even playing for months, and they lose that kind of momentum and cohesion that you try to build in the team and each time you must restart from scratch.

However, I would like to say that the competition is a really healthy place because it is a league where pretty much majority of Matildas came through and that is the ongoing league that we all came through and developed through. So, A-League is essentially the portal for national team, and by fixing it domestically, it will benefit national team for the future.

JPT: Do you want to say a few words to your numerous fans in Dijon, Australia and all over the world?

KS: Obviously, with my 17 years of professional career, I would not be where I am without the fans’ support. Particularly, when I have not been on the pitch and going through a difficult time being injured. They had been patient with my process, and I really appreciated that and their understanding that at the end of the day no one wants to be on the pitch playing as much as I am. I am working as hard as I possibly can because I want to be back at top level and play and train consistently week in and week out.

I really appreciate the support from the fans all around the world wherever they are from. It is very appreciated when they send me a nice message on social media or when I meet nice people at games. I would definitely say, stick with us and stick with me and hopefully we could share some good moments in the future.

I would say that since I am in Dijon I met some lovely kind people in the club where they were friendly but also outside in Dijon.

**Above:** Simon lunges for the ball. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

I am enjoying being back in Europe. It is a new experience for me, and I guess at my age still being to experience something new in football it is the gift that keeps on giving for me and I am just enjoying the ride.

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Badawiya on call to seal the Glory for Perth

Perth Glory 1-0 Adelaide United

by Ben Gilby (21/12/25)

Above: Want a goal? Call me! Rola Badawiya celebrates after hitting her third of the season for Perth Glory today. Image: Paramount+

Perth Glory earned their second straight victory with a clean sheet after condemning an Adelaide United side who dominated possession and territory to a fourth defeat in six matches.

Last weekend, the Western Australian outfit had to see off a Wellington Phoenix side who created a stack of goalscoring chances. This time round, despite Adelaide having over 70% of the ball for at times, Glory keeper Teresa Morrissey had very few shots to save.

Perth boss Stephen Peters made one change to his starting line-up with Onyi Zogg missing due to a quad injury, with Julia Sardo coming in. Tijan McKenna moved into centre back. The Western Australians also had the luxury of a bench stacked with attacking potential.

Adelaide United, whose midweek game at Melbourne City was postponed due to a flu outbreak made two changes from their starting XI from their last outing at Melbourne Victory last weekend as Matilda McNamara came in along with Emily Condon for Holly Murray and Isabel Hodgson out.

Despite what is, on paper, a team with gifted attacking weapons, the South Australians came into this game having scored only three goals all season – they would have been hopeful of improving this record against the league’s leakiest defence, but it never really worked out that way due to a combination of Glory’s set up and organisation and poor passing at times from the Reds.

Indeed, it was the visitors who created the first chance of the encounter as Adriana Taranto used dancing feet along the right to beat her defender and let fly with an angled shot that only just cleared the bar.

Perth looked to respond, and Rola Badawiya broke through just before the quarter hour mark and turned Zoe Tolland, but just as the former Central Coast Mariners hot-shot was about to pull the trigger, a combative tackle from Ella Tonkin slammed the door shut.

As the half advanced, whilst the visitors remained in command of the possession, they never really showed any likelihood of breaking through the Perth backline. Clear cut chances dried up as Adelaide’s passing accuracy dropped off as the Glory looked to up the ante on their press.

The home side needed to get their foot on the ball, and find time to get the creativity of Georgia Cassidy into the game, something which would be key to calling Claudia Jenkins into action. If truth be told, neither goalkeeper had much to do in the opening 35 minutes.

However, Adelaide paid the ultimate price for failing to turn their domination into a scoreboard lead. With 37 minutes played, Perth were awarded a free kick after Healy fouled Johnston on the right, almost 30 yards out.

Cassidy floated the ball in, it was initially cleared, but turned back in by Sardo on the left – again, the visitors couldn’t effectively get the ball away, allowing Bronte Trew to touch on for Badawiya at the back post slot home.

The visitors looked to hit back immediately as Healy broke through, but Morrissey made a superb save with her leg.

Just as they did last weekend, Perth sucked up all the pressure and made their opponents pay the price for failing to turn a colossal possession share of 70.7% into goals. The character and attacking potential in this Western Australian side is there to bite you on the backside when you least expect it.

Perth started the second half strongly as Trew burst through and fired a powerful shot just over the top. Whilst it was a confident effort, a combination of a touch taking her further away from goal and Badawiya unmarked to the left, a pass could have been a better option.

Adelaide struggled to get any true foothold in an attacking sense again. The closest they came was with 20 minutes remaining when Adriana Taranto’s low shot from outside the box was easily held by Morrissey.

Perth had a chance to double their lead with seven minutes remaining when substitute Susan Phonsongkham, the scoring hero in last week’s Distance Derby success over Wellington, raced up the right and curled a shot wide of the left-hand post.

Then, deep into the four minutes of stoppage time, a final chance for the visitors. Badawiya was adjudged to have brought down Healy a few yards outside of the box to the right – but Paige Zois’ free-kick flew over the top.

This was an exceptionally frustrating game for Adelaide. Despite the fact that they are recovering from a flu bug that ravaged the squad, the Reds had more than enough possession and territory to have put this game to bed comfortably. This and their poor scoring record means there is a lot to work on as we move towards 2026 with the South Australian side bottom of the ladder on goals scored from Western Sydney Wanderers.

Perth now move up in the top six, having recorded back-to-back wins without being anywhere near their potential best. It’s a big few months ahead for both these sides.

Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Morrissey, McKenna, Anderson, Sardo, Johnston, Dalton, Cassidy, Westaway, Trew, Hollar, Badawiya. Substitutes: Skinner, Lincoln, O’Donoghue, Phonsongkham, Tovar, Wainwright.

Scorers: Badawiya 39′.

ADELAIDE UNITED (4-2-3-1): Jenkins, Tolland, McNamara, Tonkin, Hodgson, M. Taranto, Zois, A. Taranto, Healy, Condon, Dawber. Substitutes: Bowler, Dewey, Gooch, Melegh, Murray, Rossi.

Scorers:

Referee: Sophie Allum.

Attendance: 825.

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Late leveller earns Canberra a point against Mariners

Canberra United 1-1 Central Coast Mariners

by Callum Logie (20/12/25)

Above: Michelle Heyman leading the way for Canberra United against Central Coast Mariners today. Photo: Canberra United.

A Sasha Grove equaliser in the final minute of regulation time ensured Canberra United would share the points with Central Coast Mariners in a match that endured several delays for both the heat and lightning.

This was a battle between two teams looking to create more momentum for themselves as they head toward the middle of summer. Canberra United made one change from their win over Melbourne City, bringing Jazmin Wardlow into the defence and dropping Tegan Bertolissio to the bench. Central Coast tweaked their starting shape from their 2-1 victory at Western Sydney, but kept the same personnel.

Canberra United created an early chance at five minutes in the game after a delivery from Josie Aulicino found Hawkins for a free header which was directed wide of the Mariners goal. The home team started positively, looking to continue their path to the top of the ladder.

A couple of minutes later, Michelle Heyman showed some great hold-up play which created an opportunity for Sasha Grove. Grove’s shot from about 20 yards was well collected by Annalee Grove who was the starting keeper for Central Coast this week.

At 10 minutes, Bethany Gordon burst forward into the box after an excellent first touch on the edge of the box and drove a ball across goal. Grove was able to push the ball out, but it was the most promising attack the hosts had put together up to that point, with Gordon and Grove regularly pushing forward to support Heyman in the middle.

Many players for Canberra United were peppering the goal of Central Coast in the first half, with Emma Hawkins directing a shot on target from yet another Heyman initiated attack. She did not connect well with the shot at 12 minutes, and Grove was able to keep her team level in what was a Canberra dominated 15 minutes.

The match was disrupted at a few points in the first half, with heat and lightning predicating regular breaks in play. After an hour off the pitch, the game resumed play an hour and a half after kick off time. With the scores being level, it was effectively a 65 minute game rather than the full 90 if you discount the first 25 minutes of play.

A minute after play resumed, Josie Aulicino won a free-kick after making a run inside. She often drifted wide to help support the attacking full backs and Heyman up front. Nothing came from the resulting free kick from Bethany Gordon, but it did mark that United intended to continue where they left off.

After a period of back and forth play and physical challenges. Nanako Sasaki created an opportunity for Canberra United with a well weighted cross directed toward Michelle Heyman landed at the edge of the six yard box. Greta Kraszula was able to spoil the efforts of Heyman and deflect the ball safely into the arms of Grove.

Central Coast were on the back foot for the entire first half, only managing one shot on goal and one corner. The tackling of the Canberra United defence and the physicality of the midfield made it difficult for the Mariners to create anything meaningful when pushing forward.

In order to create advantages on the flanks, the home side elected to tweak their formation, having a back three, while Hawkins and Sasha Grove were free to roam forward into attacking positions. The tackling of Hayley Taylor-Young and Wardlow along with the solid positioning on the defensive side of Emma Robers and Elizabeth Anton allowed for the team to continue deploying their attacking wide players forward.

This is a part of what has made Canberra United such a dangerous team this season, their ability to rotate players around and continue to play at a high level. On the other side, it was the physical defence of Elizabeth Barwick-Gray and Taren King that prevented Canberra from getting open in the box and in attacking options, so while they had the majority of the chances, Annalee Grove had quite a clean game in goal thanks to the efforts of her defenders.

Sienna Dale was introduced in the second half, the exciting youngster looking to bring some energy to the Canberra attacks. The second half was characterised by a lot of physicality in the first ten minutes, neither team able to create any major advantage.

It took 59 minutes for the Mariners to get their first meaningful chance, and it was seemingly out of nothing. A physical run from Isabella Coco Di-Sipio lead to her taking a snapshot from just outside the box that forced a save out of Sally James.

In terms of territory and possession, the Mariners did seem to have a stronger showing through the first portion of the second half, having more touches in Canberra United’s half. For United, the inclusion of Dale and the energy of Aulicino saw them pressing the Mariners defenders more when they were not on the ball.

Against the run of play, a long hopeful ball forward from Isabel Gomez found its way to Annalise Rasmussen who ran forward into the box and tucked away a great effort at the near post from about 14 yards. The Mariners had to wait 67 minutes for their first shot on target, but Rasmussen delivered with a goal.

Canberra started playing with a sense of desperation after falling behind, but were again having trouble breaking down the defence of the Mariners. Central Coast were able to maintain a fair potion of possession while continuing to frustrate their opposition.

The capital city side piled on the pressure, particularly in the final 10 minutes, looking to create that chance to get them back into the game. Another lightning delay was called at 85 minutes through the game, the weather doing its best to keep this game from finishing.

Finally, the game resumed with Central Coast creating an early chance, substitute Tiana Fuller directing her shot off target.

Despite their efforts in keeping their clean sheet, Central Coast did end up conceding in the 90th minute, with Sasha Grove striking from a low driven cross to tie it up for the hosts. Canberra continued to press for a winner, but Central Coast were resolute and able to preserve an important away draw.

Considering all the stoppages and disruptions of play, one goal a piece seemed to be a fair result at the end of this game.

Teams: CANBERRA UNITED (4-4-2): James, Hawkins, Wardlow, Taylor-Young, Robers, Sasaki, S.Grove, Anton, Gordon, Heyman, Aulicino. Substitutes: Bertolissio, Christopherson, Dale, Majstorovic, Malone, Stanic-Floody.

Scorer: S.Grove 90′.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-1-4-1): A. Grove, Baumann, King, Barwick-Grey, Martin, Gomez, Coco Di-Sipio, Quilligan, Kraszula, Trimis, Rasmussen. Substitutes: Buchanan, Clough, Farrow, Fuller, Prakash, Varley.

Scorer: Rasmussen 67′.

Referee: Isabella Mossin

Attendance: 1,152.

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Wellington wallops Sydney to break records

Wellington Phoenix 7-0 Sydney FC

By Alyce Collett 20/12/2025

Above: Grace Jale (centre) celebrates after scoring one of the two goals she scored against Sydney FC. Photo: Ryan Imray for Impetus

The Wellington Phoenix have recorded a monster historic win this afternoon, downing Sydney FC 7-0 to not only record their biggest ever win but hand Sydney FC its biggest ever loss. The Phoenix were in control all afternoon, and goals from Manaia Elliott, Samba Bhandari and Grace Jale, as well as own goals from Tori Tumeth and Sarah Hunter, saw the home side bank the historic scoreline.

After a little bit of a frantic start, it did not even take Wellington even three minutes to get their scoring started. After the initial shot was well saved by Tiarna Robertson, some poor marking of Elliot from the Sydney defence allowed the Phoenix attacker to pounce on the deflection and tap it home into the back of the net.

Pia Vlok went millimetres from doubling Wellington’s lead not even two minutes later, but instead hit the crossbar.

Even with only one goal on the board, momentum was very much in the yellow corner. The Phoenix players had a lot more energy all over the park – particularly from players like CJ Bott, Emma Main and Brooke Nunn – whereas the Sky Blues was just fighting for their lives, doing everything they can to keep the ball out of their defensive net. Riley Tanner was trying hard to generate something out on the left wing for Sydney, but with no one else lifting to her level her efforts were often in vain.

Wellington’s second goal came about 10 minutes after its first when Bhandari found herself at the back post and at the end of a perfectly placed Nunn corner, which she then headed home for her first goal in Phoenix colours.

One intriguing thing about the way the match was playing out, even from early on, was that despite Wellington having less players in its back line compared to Sydney’s, the Phoenix defenders were the more effective back line. Wellington’s defenders were positioning themselves better than Sydney’s and were more alert to everything, which meant the home side’s defenders were able to neutralise any attacking threats coming their way more effectively than Sydney’s.

Things did calm down during the middle period of the half, but as the half progressed towards its final stages it was clear that Wellington were far from done on the scoring front, scoring one more goal before half time.

Wellington had a corner that bounced around off several players as it landed in the box, but it eventually landed at Jale’s feet, who smashed it into the back of the net for her first goal of the season and Wellington’s 100th of its history.

The half time stats were as intriguing as they were at times stark.

Wellington had 12 more shots on goal than Sydney did (and four more than Sydney that were on target), had 18% more of the possession and had more than double the final third entries that Sydney did.

Despite the home side’s dominance in the first half, the second half was even more painful for Sydney than the first half was.

Jale’s second goal of the match – which took her to equal top goal scorer in club history – was another example of Sydney’s shortcomings from set pieces, after Jale found herself on the end of a perfectly placed corner from Main and then headed it straight into the back of the net.

Goal number five came from Bhandari, who after being fed a through ball perfectly from Nunn, guided the ball perfectly around Robertson and into the back of the net.

As if already being 5-0 down was not bad enough, Sydney added to its own pain by conceding two own goals in the final 10 minutes of the match.

The first one was off Tumeth, who was trying to clear the ball but mistimed it and it was a deflection into the back of the net, while the second one was perhaps the most chaotic one of the match, but ultimately bounced off Hunter.

Teams: WELLINGTON PHOENIX (3-5-3): Esson, Bott, Barry, Walker, Jale, Samba, Elliot, Van der Meer, Main, Nunn, Vlok. Substitutes: Danieli, Leon, D. Brazendale, Wall, Benson, Bartlett.

Scorers: Elliott 3’, Bhandari 13’, 69’, Jale 36’, 54’, Tumeth 80’ (OG), Hunter 90’ (OG).

SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Robertson, Tumeth, Fenton, Ayson, Sullivan, Hunter, Lowry, Galic, Ulkekul, Hawkesby, Tanner. Substitutes: Hinz, Cassar, Lemon, Halmarick, Tallon-Henniker, Caspers.

Referee: Sarah Jones.

Attendance: 1,009.

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“We can be competitive with anyone”: Ho defiant as Spurs face Man Utd in Subway Cup Quarter Final

By Eloise Smallbone (19/12/25)

Above: The Tottenham team before last Sunday’s fixture at United Photo: @SpursWomen on X

Tottenham Hotspur will be hoping to go one step further in the Subway Cup against Manchester United this Sunday, having given up a 3-0 lead in the same league fixture last weekend.

Martin Ho revealed today that his team will be aiming to “reap some of the same performance” as last Sunday against Manchester United, “but with slight differences”, when the two sides face each other again in the League Cup quarter-final on Sunday.

Rivalry with Manchester United

Spurs and Manchester United faced each other as recently as last Sunday, where the two sides left Leigh Sports Village with a point apiece after a thrilling 3-3 draw. Ho described his pride at his side’s performance, as Leigh Sports Village is a “tough place to go and play” and he highlighted that Manchester United don’t tend to concede many goals at their home stadium.

Ho said that he “couldn’t have asked any more from the player” and that at the weekend they hope to “reap some of the same performance with slight differences”, including defending more diligently throughout the game.

Ho also credited the players for their mentality, explaining that: “The difference in the mentality of the group is that they were annoyed coming off the pitch.”

Ho added: “We are now in a space where we expect to win and we want to win” which “shows how far we have come.”

As well as the most recent fixture against Manchester United, Spurs also have the 2024 FA Cup final as motivation for Sunday’s tie, in which they lost 4-0 in front of a packed out Wembley. They also currently sit only one place below Manchester United in the WSL, after finishing sixth last season just behind Manchester United in sixth. This shows how competitive the two teams have become with each other over recent seasons and sets up another exciting fixture on Sunday.

His ambitions and Tottenham’s season so far

At the halfway point in the WSL season, Spurs have already surpassed their total number of points from last season, and Ho credited the players and staff for this. He explained that the club are benefiting from the players and staff working extremely hard, adding they he is “not surprised by their work ethic, commitment to doing things, application and attitude.”

Ho also described his own ambitions for the club, saying:

“I want to make sure I bring success to this club; we want to bring trophies to this club.”

The Spurs Head Coach also explained that he takes all the domestic competitions seriously and that the League Cup is an opportunity for silverware. If Spurs win against Manchester United at the weekend, they could face Arsenal in the semi-final, with Ho saying, “I’m confident no matter who we come up against” and “we can be competitive with anyone”. Ho’s positive mentality and leadership have been crucial to his team’s success so far this season. He explained that the team have built a strong mentality this season, arriving at Leigh Sports Village last weekend with a “quiet confidence that we could be competitive”.

Ho also thanked the fans for being outstanding, both home and away this season; describing them as the “extra spark” who help the team get over the line in tough games.

What to expect from Sunday

Ho also told the media that we can expect the same squad as last weekend. However, he was excited to share that some of the players who were injured on international break have started to return to training this week and a lot of these players should be back on the pitch as we head into 2026.

Tottenham will face Manchester United at 1pm BST on Sunday 21^st December for a place in the League Cup semi-final. The game will be available to watch on the WSL YouTube channel.

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Jets crash back to earth thanks to visitor’s statement win

Newcastle Jets 1- 3 Melbourne Victory

By Emma Burke 19/12/25

Above: Kennedy White (centre) celebrates after scoring. Photo: via the A-Leagues

Despite a late surge, Melbourne Victory were too good for the Newcastle Jets tonight, defeating them 3-1 at No. 2 Sportsground thanks to goals from Kennedy White, Rhianna Policina and Nicki Flannery.

The home side were put to their defensive work early when Sofia Sakalis found enough room at the top of the box to try her luck, but Anna Leat was ready between the sticks for the threat, doing just enough to push the ball over the bar.

It was a header from the American import White in the first half that opened the scoring account for the Victory, delivered off a pin-point free-kick by Alana Jancevski.

The Jets had chosen to leave White completely unmarked in the box, making her job of putting the ball into the back of the net all too easy, on top of being paired with such great service.

Pollicina later continued her incredible first season with Victory scoring a volley early in the second half, an instant contender for goal of the week, aided by Holly Furphy’s assist.

The sheer brilliance of Melina Ayres almost brought Newcastle back into the game when she was able to turn around a difficult cross and get the shot off. It unfortunately clipped the crossbar in the wrong direction, bouncing out of the goal.

Victory continued to pile on the hurt, scoring their third of the night through Flannery, her first goal since her return from injury and a stint overseas in Cyprus with Apollon Limassol.

Lauren Allen was able to find her side a consolation goal late in the game, after her shot on goal spilled through Courtney Newbon’s hands, which did seem to light a spark in Jets, but it was too little too late by that point.

The Victory now have a quick turnaround as they face their cross-city rivals in the Melbourne Derby on Tuesday, while Newcastle will play hosts to Canberra United next Saturday.

Teams: NEWCASTLE JETS (4-3-3): Leat, Cicco, Prior, Bates, Breier, Copus-Brown, Davis, Dundas, J. Allan, Brown, Ayres. Substitutes: Hoban, L. Allan, Adams, Wilson, Ritchie, Page.

Scorers: L. Allan 82’

MELBOURNE VICTORY (3-4-1-2): Newbon, Morrison, Ray, Bunge, Jancevski, Pollicina, Sakalis, Pickett, Lowe, White, Furphy. Substitutes: Maher, Flannery, O’Grady, Curtis, Woodward, Techera.

Scorers: White 25’, Pollicina 57’, Flannery 77’

Referee: Mikayla Ryan.

Attendance: 1,145

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