Above: Kaitlyn Topey and Hannah Wilkinson celebrate City’s late equaliser.Photo: Liberty A-League.
Melbourne City snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat against Sydney FC to maintain their hold on third spot.
Sydney FC welcomed back Nat Tobin to the side, with Rachel Lowe continuing to play in attack in place of the injured Madison Haley.
Melbourne City were missing Rhianna Pollicina, but Young Matilda Daniela Galic returned to the line-up. Coach Dario Vidosic tinkered with the forward line following the defeat in the Melbourne Derby, Bryleeh Henry started on the bench, with Holly McNamara, Hannah Wilkinson, and Maria Rojas making up the front three.
Despite the travel and the heat, Sydney FC controlled the majority of the first half. Lowe and Mackenzie Hawekesby were both mobile and busy, but it was the home side who created the first serious chance of the game.
Holly McNamara is a player who is consistently dangerous on the ball, and her run into the box set up Galic for an opportunity to open the scoring. The playmaker stayed composed amid the traffic and hit a shot from close range low to the near bottom corner. It took a spectacular save from Jada Whyman to deny the goal. Her outstretched hand provided one of the highlights of her season.
Cortnee Vine was providing the biggest threat to City’s defence. The Matildas’ attacker was dominant on her side of the pitch. The battle between her and Julia Grosso was one of the definitive ones of the game, and both players were ready to defend or attack when needed.
Not surprisingly, Vine opened the scoring in the 24th minute. City tend to attack with patience and in numbers, but this can leave them vulnerable if they lose possession. A long direct attack released Vine on the right wing and behind Grosso.
When Cortnee Vine is at full pace and has nothing but space between her and the goal there is very little a goalkeeper can do. If you come out, she can go around you, if you stay on your line, she will just keep coming. Sally James did her best to narrow the angle, but once she committed, Vine slotted the ball beyond her to make it 1-0.
Vine time! ⏱️
Cortnee Vine turns on the jets and finishes off a brilliant counter-attack to give @SydneyFC the lead over @MelbourneCity 🔥
The Sydney FC star continued to threaten throughout the game. Whether she was in space or cutting into crowded areas of the defence, Vine was menacing. After cutting inside she set up Sarah Hunter for a good chance, and the midfielder’s shot was well hit but missed the target.
City’s played with three at the back, and although this was partially the reason Vine had space out wide, it meant that it was hard to find space in front of goal. Naomi Chinnama started for the first time since recovering from a hamstring injury and looked impassable for periods of this game. Even a header against her own post fell fortuitously and harmlessly for her side.
The best chance for City in the first 45 fell to Rojas. A dynamic and explosive run from McNamara found the Chilean striker in space, but she finished the move by attempting to pass across goal when an earlier shot might have caused more problems for Whyman.
The second half continued to be the Vine show, and when she was not bursting into attack, she was setting others on their way.
A casual yet lethal ball put Princess Ibini into space with only James to beat. The prodigious goalkeeper did very well to make herself big and stay on her feet. Ibini was forced wide and the eventual shot hit the side netting.
Vine played an almost identical ball to provide Rachel Lowe with an excellent opportunity to double the lead. James was quick off her line again and the shot was stopped by her foot as she dove across to Lowe’s run to keep her team in the game.
As the game wore on, the heat looked to be a factor, and both teams began to tire. City brought on Darcy Malone and Bryleeh Henry to try and find an equaliser. Sydney FC continued to probe with Ibini’s trademark right foot shot brining the best out of James again.
The game opened up, and City’s method of attack became more direct. This meant that Hannah Wilkinson was more involved with quicker service and Sydney’s one-goal lead started to look tenuous.
Drama at the death! 😱
Kaitlyn Torpey finds a last-gasp equaliser to earn @MelbourneCity a point against @SydneyFC!
A huge result in the race for the Premiers Plate 😮
Nevertheless, it still felt surprising when City finally found an equaliser. Kaitlyn Torpey volleyed home at the far post, meeting an injury-time corner kick directing the ball between multiple Sydney FC defenders. City had spent long periods of this match under attacking pressure and had held on, then taken their opportunity when it arrived.
City almost snatched the win late when Wilkinson cruised into space in the dying seconds. Her shot from the angle was cut off by Whyman but it was a reminder of what that attack can provide when they receive the ball quickly and in space.
The draw means that the ladder positions of either side do not change much. Sydney FC still remain in contention for a third consecutive premiership but have been made to wait at least another few weeks. City look like solid bets for a finals position, but have still not beaten another top-four side this season.
The impressive self-belief and the form of Chinnama and James will be promising signs though. The dramatic late draw will be extremely valuable to the team when the knockout games begin.
Speaking after the game, Sydney FC head coach Ante Juric said: “I am extremely proud of our performance. The girls played with passion and intensity, which is so pleasing as a coach.
“We created lots of opportunities which we did not capitalise on, but I enjoyed the way we attacked and on how we had a willingness to go forward. Unfortunately, we conceded a last-minute goal off a set piece. The one point is still very important at this point of the season. We now focus on the next match and the job at hand in the next few vital weeks.”
SYDNEY FC (4-3-1-2): Whyman, Rule, de la Harpe, Tobin, Green, Hunter, Hollman, Hawkesby, Vine, Lowe, Ibini. Substitutes: Collister, J. Dos Santos, I. Dos Santos, Evans, Offer.
Above: Celebrations for Melbourne Victory after their late leveller at Canberra United today. Photo: Liberty A-League.
Tiff Eliadis’ strike two minutes before the end of normal time gained Melbourne Victory a huge point in the context of the Finals race.
In the battle of the sides who went into the round placed fourth and fifth, Jeff Hopkins’ side knew that avoiding defeat could prove to be decisive in their bid to seal yet another top-four berth.
In an opening that saw both teams feeling each other out, Hayley Taylor-Young was full of intelligent running, and Vesna Milivojević was looking to bring her fellow attackers into the play as Canberra looked to push for a win that would be potentially monumental in their Finals hopes.
However, as the game developed, clear-cut scoring opportunities were few and far between. Both goalkeepers were called into action largely for claiming crosses rather than out and out shot stopping. Victory earned more possession and territory in this spell with the industry of Beattie Goad apparent, along with link-up play between Lia Privitelli and Melina Ayres that was keeping Canberra’s backline busy.
In the final ten minutes of the opening period, with Grace Maher probing, Taylor-Young getting further forward, and Nicki Flannery more involved along the left, Canberra began to trouble the Victory defence with a flurry of chances.
Michelle Heyman held off Claudia Bunge on the right-hand side of the box and fired in a low shot that hit the side netting. Flannery then found Milivojević with a lofted ball over the top that the Victory defence failed to deal with, allowing the Canberra attacker to hit a shot that Casey Dumont did well to tip over.
Above: Ellie Brush, a foundation player at Canberra United, in action during what could be her last A-League Women match at McKellar Park. Photo: Keep Up.
The visiting goalkeeper was called into action again shortly afterwards as Heyman danced her way towards the area on the right and lifted a shot that Dumont had to jump to hold.
Goad served the home side a late reminder deep into first-half stoppage time that the visitors could pose a threat as the Australian international motored along the right wing, turned Taylor-Young, and hit a vicious cross-shot that whistled just beyond the top right-hand corner of the goal.
The momentum remained with Canberra as the second half opened. On the hour mark, Grace Jale received the ball from Holly Murray and lifted a high ball in that Dumont failed to claim, but Milivojević couldn’t pounce.
Just over ten minutes later, Canberra had better luck. Sasha Grove threaded a pass through to Heyman who in turn fed Wu Chengsu, and the Chinese star hit a shot that Dumont repelled at the cost of a corner. Milivojević played it in high from the left, Ellie Brush, in what could be her final appearance at McKellar Park, got a shot in before newly arrived substitute Kennedy Faulknor ghosted between the Victory defenders to see an initial shot come off the post before having the time to tap the rebound home.
The home side continued to press with Wu forcing Dumont into another superb save with nine minutes remaining, and shortly afterwards Jale broke through and side-footed a shot that went agonisingly high and narrowly wide. It was a moment that Canberra would rue.
With two minutes to go, Maja Markovski took the ball out wide to the right and played a clinical low ball into the path of Tiff Eliadis to poke the ball home. This was a huge goal in the context of both teams’ seasons.
Above: Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Casey Dumont making another in a series of fine saves today. Photo: Keep Up.
To further increase Canberra’s frustration, Maher played a long ball through to Milivojević who then found Heyman whose shot incredibly came back off of the right-hand post and rolled along to bounce against the opposite post. Despite five minutes of stoppage time and both sides’ best efforts neither could find the net again.
For Canberra United, this was a heartbreaking outcome. Regardless of the outcome of their appeal against a three-point deduction, this draw, and the stage of the game that the visitors’ goal came, makes this feel like a loss. The gap between them and the last spot in the finals is now five points, and with two games to go, that’s tough to make up. Melbourne Victory have a habit of coming good when it matters.
Above: Melbourne City head coach Dario Vidocic in training. Photo: Melbourne City.
As the Finals loom closer, the competition pressure continues to build. Top four places are looking to be sewn up, and teams in contention are scrapping for every point.
For Melbourne City, they’ve comfortably been near the head of the table for the majority of the campaign, and whilst they haven’t yet clinched a finals berth, it would be surprising if they were to miss out.
Equally as surprising though, is the fact they have yet to beat any of their other top four opponents this season, with another loss, this time to Melbourne Victory, last weekend. It brings their combined record to four losses and a draw against Victory, Western United, and Sydney FC.
“I think it’s just belief,” City head coach, Dario Vidosic, said at his pre-match press conference. “The belief that we can do it, that we can play when the pressure is a little bit higher; it’s a mindset really. I explained to them this morning that we play in much tighter areas, bigger numbers [during training] and they show they’re capable of doing it everyday – it’s not something that we ask that’s beyond their capabilities, they’re all good footballers.
“Regardless who the opposition is, we want to win and play our brand of football; that’s the goal. We can say yes, we’ve played all the other teams in the top four and haven’t won a game. But other than the Sydney game (a 3-0 loss), and the first 20 minutes against Victory, we were the better team.
“Once we went 2-0 down [against Victory], it’s always more difficult. But in the second half I thought we were really good, we still controlled it and created enough chances that on another day you could still win that game. But it’s hard to concede goals and then have to come back. If we started well, it would have been a totally different outcome last weekend, but it is what it is.”
Maria Rojas, also speaking on Friday, conveyed the sense of a missed opportunity within the playing group as well. “Very disappointed, because it was a big game, the derby; as a club, every single game we go for the win,” the Chilean said.
“We do analyse the games, what we do well and don’t do well. This whole week it’s been [about] trying to be positive, to move on, we’ve been working really hard to fix what we need to work on, working on our finishing and getting into those areas. We were probably the better team but at the end of the day what matters is the score, putting the ball in the back of the net.”
“Unfortunately that’s football,” Vidosic continued. “That can happen, where sometimes you deserve it and you win, and other times you don’t deserve to and you still win as well. But the reality is, we haven’t won a game (against the other top-four sides). Tomorrow, we go out, same mentality, we just keep putting pressure.
“It’s just continually a process of improving and continuing to improve how we want to play and dictate games and to win – and a big part is belief. What we ask – to build up, to keep possession, to drag opponents away and then to occupy that space, the different mechanisms we have in our attack and defending – if we put that together then we’re a great team and we can win. But if we go away from that then it’s a flip of a coin.
Above: Maria Rojas who feels she is surrounded by “amazing players”. Photo: Melbourne City.
“I know we’ve got a young squad, and they’re learning, [but] a fantastic opportunity after last weekend. We’ve had an excellent training week, and we’re looking forward to the challenge that Sydney FC will set.”
Both Rojas and Vidosic spent time talking about their attacking play, having had 23 shots last weekend (11 on target) and winning the expected goals battle (1.7 vs Victory’s 1.2), yet not being able to get on the scoresheet. “It’s just practice and a little bit of that composure, where you feel a little bit rushed, a little bit of pressure,” Vidosic explained. “They’re all very good players in our frontline. It’d be more concerning if we didn’t create shots and on another day we’d probably score four or five goals. We can look at the negatives, but there were also a lot of positives.”
Rojas also touched on her and fellow attacker Holly McNamara’s return to the squad after an ACL injury. 20-year-old McNamara has quickly impressed, having been on the sidelines for more than 12 months. “Obviously it takes a little bit of time,” Rojas, herself playing in her second match back for City, said. “With Wilky (Hannah Wilkinson) and Holly (McNamara) we were training a little before I left, but hadn’t played many games (together). But now, trying to work together and seeing how they play, what’s best for the team, that’s what we’ve been working hard on as well this week.
“I think it’s great to have such amazing players, a great team, and hopefully it works out for us. It’s great to have players who drive with the ball; [McNamara’s] quick, and we needed to have someone who plays well with the ball. She has a great intensity and knows how to drive balls into the [penalty] area. We just need to now work as a team. We always want to win, and I’m sure everyone is going to step up.
“For me, I left in December when I went away with Chile, but playing with Melbourne City, with Dario as a coach, for every single player it makes it easier. It’s not just about me, it’s about my team. Wherever I can help – if I need to play in different positions, I will – I’ll do my best. Obviously, I’m just coming back and adapting to what we need to do to make the finals, but I’m happy to be back. Tomorrow is an important game, and hopefully, I’ll bring more goals or assists for the team.”
Melbourne City have an immediate chance to improve their record against the A-League’s top teams, with a home date against Sydney on Saturday. Having been comprehensively beaten in the reverse fixture of this match, City know they’ll need to be at their best to get a result out of the Sky Blues. Having seen the Wellington Phoenix produce an upset against Sydney last weekend, City boss Vidosic knows a win is possible.
“That was probably the worst game of our season,” Vidosic recalled, of their 3-0 loss to Sydney in February. “We went away from our principles and what we’re about. Maybe we showed them a little too much respect that day; we were playing them in their home ground, maybe we put too much pressure on ourselves instead of just playing the game as just another game, another three points. But we’ve learned a lot from that; Sydney are ruthless, if you don’t turn up against them, they’ve got players that are dangerous and can hurt you. I’m expecting a much better performance from us tomorrow against them.
“Wellington deserved their win (last weekend); they fought for everything, they were aggressive, they were searching for a second [goal]. It’s a testament to the quality of the league that although they’re at the bottom, they’re a good team. All in all, every team can have an off-day, [but] we expect and plan for the best Sydney FC tomorrow. That’s why it’s important that you have to be ready, you have to prepare every week to produce your best because if it’s not, it may not be good enough.”
Rojas concurred with her coach’s assessment of their weekend task at hand. “We need to be switched on; we know what Sydney brings, we know how they play,” the forward said. “It’s not just about Sydney though; this week it’s been about trying to connect, trying to fix what we didn’t do last weekend. So we know what we need to do. Sydney are a strong side as well, but we also are very strong – we can play football and we want to show that.”
Melbourne Victory:
Hopkins: It’s a huge game for us
by Kieran Yap
Above: Melbourne Victory boss Jeff Hopkins knows his side face a mini-final when they travel to Canberra United tomorrow. Image: Melbourne Victory.
Melbourne Victory head north to face Canberra United and a win against the fifth-placed side will be a big step towards securing a finals spot.
Following on from their impressive 2-0 win over Melbourne City, head coach Jeff Hopkins did not need to remind his players of the importance of the game. Everybody in the club is well aware that this game is almost a mini-final. Canberra United are five points behind Victory, but have an appeal pending that could see three points reinstated to their tally. The result on Saturday could have a big impact on the season.
“We understand the game tomorrow is going to be another huge game for us and for Canberra as well,” Hopkins told the media. “So we understand what type of game it’s going to be. It’s going to be a game where we have to push ourselves pretty hard physically, and emotionally as well.
“I’ve not needed to mention it. The players are talking about it, they understand. We had these conversations a week or 10 days ago about the next four games being really important.”
Although Victory will be feeling the pressure. Hopkins points out that for Canberra United, a good result is vital. He has encouraged his side to embrace the moment, and after the experience of last season’s title charge, he believes they can rise to the occasion.
“It’s a two-way thing,” he says of Canberra. “I’m sure they’re feeling exactly the same as well. We went into finals (last season) after having a huge run of games in a short time. At times we had to hang on. Other times we were pushed really hard.
“If you push through those games it really hardens you as a team. It gives you a lot of confidence that you know you can push through those harder periods in games. A lot of the time, that’s what finals are about.
“It’s taking advantage of what you do really well but making sure that when you’re under pressure, when the opposition are coming strong that you pull together, and you hold strong. You can often come out of those games stronger than when you went into them.
“You’ve got to embrace the nervousness and that energy. You’ve got to harness that energy and push it into a positive place. You will feel nervous, you will feel a little bit of apprehension… that’s what big games are all about. You’ve hit to embrace that rather than worry or be scared of that.”
Above: Michelle Heyman and Laura Hughes are just two of the threats that Canberra United’s pose to Melbourne Victory tomorrow. Photo: Canberra United.
Standing between Victory and a happy trip home is one of the league’s most feared attacks. Canberra United’s front four are fearsome when in form. They were unlucky not to score in ther last meeting between the two sides. On that day, Victory secured a 1-0 win, due largely to the heroics of Casey Dumont.
“They complement each other pretty well,” says Hopkins of the Michelle Heyman-led attack. They play some good football in their build-up but they are quite direct as well. They’ve got a real purpose about their play.
“We understand that it’s going to take a massive effort from us if we do get something there. It’s a bit of a fortress over there as well.”
Victory’s chances will be buoyed by the return of Jessika Nash. The right-back has been crucial to the way they defend and attack in her first season at the club. She missed the Melbourne Derby after starring for The Young Matildas against Guam and Kyrgyzstan.
Following an almost 30-hour return trip, she was rested for the big win. “She was physically fine last week,” said Hopkins. “The games and the travel back took a fair bit out of her emotionally.
“That was my decision rather than anyone else’s, I had a chat with the girls, (Alana Murphy, Ava Briedis, and Nash). They all put themselves up to play and I made the decision not to play Jess last week. We get a really fresh player coming into the line-up again this week, which is really important.”
With Nash rested last week, Victory shifted midfielder Paige Zois to right back. It was a role she had never played at senior level before, and one she performed excellently. Her spectacular goal aside, she helped Victory keep a clean sheet despite the best efforts of City’s attack of senior capped internationals.
“I thought her performance was fantastic last week,” says Hopkins of Zois’s game. “She came in and did a job in a position she’d never played in before and did a great job.
“She got the goal as well. She’s doing everything I’ve asked of her and she’s making it hard for me not to pick her, which is everything you want from a player coming into the side.”
Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.
Above: Dylan Holmes on the charge for Adelaide United. Photo: Keep Up.
Adelaide United came from two goals down to claim a point at the death against Newcastle Jets in an enthralling encounter at Coopers Stadium.
It didn’t take long for the first goalscoring opportunity. After just two minutes, Fiona Worts was fed by Zoe Tolland and turned two Newcastle defenders and shot, albeit too high. Emily Hodgson gave Worts a second opportunity eight minutes later but the shot was saved by Newcastle goalkeeper Claire Coelho.
However, it was Newcastle that found the breakthrough in the 18th minute, thanks to a well-thought-out sequence of play where Murphy Agnew then crossed the ball for Lucy Johnson to slot home becoming the first Tasmanian to score in the A-League Women in the process.
Adelaide’s profligacy continued when Worts was brought down in the box by Coelho made contact with her in the box with a high leg leading to referee Georgia Ghirardello awarding a penalty in 20th minute and showing the Jets keeper a yellow card for the foul. Maruschka Waldus stepped up and hit a shot towards the bottom left corner, Coelho went the right way to deny the South Australians.
What a ball. What a run. What a finish! 👊
Lauren Allan makes it two for the Jets before the break!
Newcastle punished Adelaide for that miss and doubled their advantage less than 10 minutes later. Emily Garnier’s through ball found Lauren Allan who outpaced the Adelaide defence to shoot beyond Annalee Grove.
In the last minute of stoppage time for the first half, Nanako Sasaki from an Adelaide free kick provided a great cross into the box that found Jenna McCormick at the near post whose header at goal was prevented with another great save by Coelho.
Whilst Jets maintained their two-goal cushion at the break, it took just seven minutes of the second period for Adelaide to get back into the match. Returning Young Matilda Emilia Murray’s cross was aimed for Worts, but instead found the path of scholarship player Katie Bowler whose first-time shot beat Coelho.
Murray proved to be a thorn in the side of Newcastle and she created again shortly afterwards dribbling and cutting in before unleashing a shot that went wide of the goal.
Worts was denied yet again with just over 15 minutes remaining after being played in by Murray but Coehlo saved and then saw the shot come back off the post.
Unbelievable from Emilia Murray! 😮@AdelaideUnited equalise late at Coopers stadium!
Finally, the home side found their equaliser with two minutes remaining. New arrival from NPLW SA club Adelaide Comets, Chrissy Panagaris, crossed for Murray to hit a first-time shot past Coelho into the bottom right corner. It was reward for the youngster’s superb efforts.
It was heartbreaking for Newcastle Jets who know they could find themselves bottom if the table should Wellington Phoenix defeat Perth Glory tomorrow.
Teams: ADELAIDEUNITED(4-3-3): Grove, E. Hodgson, McCormick, Waldus, Tolland, Sasaki, Westland, Holmes, Barbieri, Bowler, Worts. Substitutes: Farrow, Hawyard, I. Hodgson, Murray, Panagaris.
Above: Today’s gathering announcing Australia will host the IFCPF Asia-Oceania Championships with ParaMatildas, ParaRoos, and officials present. Photo: Mark Avellino/Football Australia.
by Ben Gilby (17/3/23).
Australia has been confirmed as the host of the men’s and women’s 2023 IFCPF Asia-Oceania Championships (Para Asian Cup) following a decision made by the International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football.
It will be the first time ever a women’s Para Asian Cup competition will be contested and will also mark the first time the men’s and women’s Para Asian Cup will be held at the same time.
The tournament will take place at the newly constructed Home of the Matildas at La Trobe University in Melbourne from 31 October – 12 November 2023 – further extending the amount of top-level women’s football competition taking place in Australia this year.
Speaking at the announcement that the tournament will be coming to Melbourne, ParaMatildas star Nicole Christodoulou said: “I’m still pinching myself that I’m a ParaMatilda. It is the most amazing thing in the whole world. We’re a team full of players, and to be here today, hosting the tournament for our families to be able to come and watch is amazing.
Above: ParaMatilda Nicole Christodoulou speaking at today’s media event. Photo: Mark Avellino/Football Australia.
“To have the support of the Australian people means the world to us. It means people with disabilities can flourish and be the best they can as humans. We are delighted we can provide a service to our country. We are very, very thankful.”
Christodoulou has long been an advocate for using sport to push her development and ability both in daily life and in all-round wellbeing. It was a theme she returned to so eloquently today.
“I was looking for acceptance, and to lose half my body, to lose me, I needed to find myself again. I had this thing in my brain – can I feel that emotion again when I play football? I do. I can do it now! I’ve learned so much about myself. From becoming a ParaMatilda a year ago to now, I am very thankful that opportunities can be provided to the 4.4 million people around the country (living with a disability) that would not have had this opportunity.”
“To be part of this – we’ll have young girls with CP, or brain injuries, or strokes looking up to us, having something to work towards, to have a purpose. Football is not just a sport, it is a way of life. If I didn’t have football, I wouldn’t have the things I also do in my life. It’s helped me physically, mentally, and emotionally.
“We are quality footballers. Just because we have a disability doesn’t mean we are not talented because we are!”
Above: Tahlia Blanchard – one of the stars of last year’s IFCPF World Cup – speaking to the media. Image: Football Australia.
Fellow ParaMatilda Tahlia Blanchard underlined the enormity of today’s announcement and what it means. “I was lucky enough to make my debut at the World Cup last year, which was an incredible experience. I would classify myself as someone relatively new to the sport, having my first introduction to CP football at the end of 2018. Now announcing a home Para Asia Cup is just incredible. I’m so excited that we can have everyone here to celebrate this occasion.
“This is such a big deal. My family hasn’t had the opportunity to watch me play this game besides on live streams. It’s incredible for the whole squad to have the opportunity to play in front of friends and families.”
Blanchard, who was one of the players of the tournament in last year’s inaugural IFCPF Women’s World Cup emphasised the wider importance of Australia hosting the Para Asian Cup.
“This is a major event for cerebral palsy sport and…many people are going to find this sport and find us through this event, and that’s something that is really important. I know that I didn’t have many people that I saw in the media when I was growing up that looked like me, and that made it hard. You can’t be who you can’t see.
“I’m really grateful that I was able to find my way into this sport, and it means a lot to me, and it will mean so much to the next generation as well. I believe that this can lead to more change. It means a lot to the greater disabled community. I’m proud to stand here as a cerebral palsy athlete.
“Cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury and stroke will now be talked about in Australian households and also we can continue the work to make this place a better and more inclusive world.”
“This will be an opportunity to grow the fan base and I can’t wait to see the stands full of people wanting to watch cerebral palsy football.”
Above: Nicole Christodoulou in action for the ParaMatildas at last year’s IFCPF Women’s World Cup. Photo: Marianna Galanoupoulos/Football Australia.
Football Australia CEO, James Johnson spoke of how excited his organisation is to deliver a game-changing tournament for Asia-Pacific’s para footballers.
“Football Australia is thrilled and honoured to have won the hosting rights for this historic tournament in 2023. We have a team within our organisation that is committed to para football and know we can deliver a tournament that demonstrates our passion, respect, and drive towards ensuring footballers of all abilities can proudly represent Australia and the Asia-Pacific region,” Johnson said.
“To host a historic first-ever women’s Para Asian Cup will follow our co-hosting of a historic Women’s World Cup and part of our strategic vision through Legacy ‘23 to transform how women and girls in Australia see the full potential available to them through football.”
“This will be a tournament delivered at a scale to elevate para football and provide current and new fans with another memorable and empowering experience while growing access to the game for players of all abilities.”
The ParaMatildas are Australia’s national teams for footballers with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury or symptoms of stroke. The two teams represent 4.4 million Australians living with disability.
CP is the most common disability in childhood, football is the most popular sport in the country with this tournament providing an opportunity to celebrate and raise awareness of the ability of para footballers to create a new generation of Australian sporting heroes.
The ParaMatildas will be highly fancied to succeed in the tournament after they finished as runners-up to the USA in the inaugural IFCPF World Cup last year.
The Hon. Bill Shorten MP, Federal Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Government Services welcomed the announcement of the tournament being staged in Australia saying: “The International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football Asian Oceania Championship will showcase Australia as an exemplar of sporting prowess and inclusion. I congratulate everyone involved.”
Above: Tahlia Blanchard in action for the ParaMatildas at the IFCPF Women’s World Cup last year. Photo: Marianna Galanoupoulos/Football Australia.
On International Women’s Day, Impetus announced its sponsorship ofAberystwyth Townstarlet Modlen Gwynne and Ella Thomas. To launch our sponsorship of Modlen, the youngster answered Ben Gilby‘s questions(16/3/23).
Above: Modlen Gwynne, Impetus’ newest sponsored player. Photo: Aberystwyth Town Women.
Modlen Gwynne is one of a talented crop of young locally produced players at Adran Premier side Aberystwyth Town who have been handed an opportunity to experience first-team football in the top tier of the Welsh club game this season.
Despite being just 15 years of age, Modlen has had the football bug for as long as she can remember, as she explained to Impetus.
“I’ve always loved football from a very young age and was drawn to play with the boys every lunchtime in primary school and every night in my back garden. I started training and playing for Y Celtiaid Juniors in 2014 (under eights) and played every Saturday in the Aberystwyth Junior Football League.
“I continued to play for Y Celtiaid for the U9s, U10s, and U11s. By then I was the only girl on the team. I then joined Celtiaid Ystwyth and then moved to Llanilar Sharks for the 2019-20 season that was cut short due to Covid-19. From an early age, I was also a member of the Aberystwyth Girls Development and Centre of Wales Excellence which I really enjoyed, it gave me the opportunity to learn the more tactical side of football and helped me develop my skills.”
At this stage, Modlen began to receive recognition for her huge potential as a footballer. “In 2019 I won the Under 12s Player of the Season 2018-19 in the Aberystwyth Junior League. It was the first time ever in the history of the league that two girls, myself and Elan Jones who I am currently playing with now for the U19 and Seniors, were nominated in the top two spots. It was an extremely proud moment for us both!”
Describing herself as “a player that’s committed to the game and willing to learn from my mistakes,” Modlen thoroughly enjoys the tactical side of the game “just as much as scoring goals and striving to have a better understanding of the game every day. One of my strengths is my physicality and attitude on the pitch. I am a strong team player, and I feel that I can read games well.”
Above: Modlen Gwynne (left) with Ella Thomas (right), who Impetus also sponsors. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Aberystwyth Town Women.
Impetus’ newest sponsored player has also experienced some real setbacks in her embryonic career that she has had to bounce back from.
“In October 2020 I took a break from football as I suffered a form of kidney failure. It took me some time to get over, but I decided to try and return and I began training and playing for Aberystwyth U16 Development squad while continuing with Llanilar Sharks, unfortunately, I found it difficult to love football again and reach the form I was in before and decided to stop playing in winter 2021.
During the summer of 2022, I watched the women’s Euros and it inspired me to come back and play again. I returned to Aberystwyth U16 Development squad in September 2022, and although it was difficult as I had not played consistent football since before covid, I worked hard to improve my fitness levels and improve my game.
“In February this year, I attended the FAW Centre at Colliers Park Wrexham to be assessed so that I could play senior football. I passed and subsequently signed for Aberystwyth Town at the age of 15. This also allowed me to play in the Genero Adran South U19 league for Aberystwyth Town and I have found myself improving every game, scoring five times in the last four games and we are having a successful run of five games unbeaten (one draw and four wins).
“I made my first seniors start for Aberystwyth Town in the Genero Adran Trophy semi-final against Cardiff Met in February 2023. I played nearly 60 minutes, and although we lost 3-0, it was an absolutely amazing experience, one I will never forget. Since then, I have made appearances against Pontypridd United in a disappointing 2-1 defeat and against Barry Town United in an excellent 3-0 win, and I am eager and excited to make many more appearances in the future.”
Modlen has sport in her blood and was inspired by her father’s achievements in rugby union. “He was a great rugby player, he played for Aberystwyth RFC and Llandovery RFC. In 2007 he won Man of the Match at the Millennium Stadium in the Konica Minolta Cup Final against the Cardiff Blues. He would take me to rugby and football training, to play cricket, and to cross-country competitions every week.
“He inspired me to become a better athlete and gave me the mindset to reach my potential. Mum would say “try your best”, and Dad would say “you can beat them.” He died suddenly in 2016, but I know he would be so proud of my hard work, my achievements, and the journey that I’m on.”
The youngster also has had the hugely important role model of an excellent female coach in her early days – something that Modlen greatly appreciates.
Above: Modlen Gwynne in action for Aberystwyth Town against Pontypridd United on her Adran Premier debut for the club. Photo: Steve Williams. Supplied to Impetus by: Aberystwyth Town Women.
“Menna Williams, Celtiaid Juniors coach was the one that encouraged me to join Y Celtiaid at seven years old. I remember the day she asked me. She was so inspirational as a coach, it was great as a young girl to have a woman train us, as the only girl in the team, she really motivated me. In my early days at the Aberystwyth Girls Development Centre, Bryn McGilligan Oliver helped me a lot to develop my foundational football skills, he opened my eyes to the potential I had and showed me what would be possible.”
Modlen also appreciates the influences of the club’s U19 manager in her development. “Roy Tourle has also helped me immensely as a player and encouraged me so much along my journey. He is always so positive and tells me I have the potential to go a long way and has been there since my time with Y Celtiaid and with Aberystwyth U16 development. I have a lot to thank him for, his encouragement gave me the confidence to take the opportunity to train with the U19s and to move up to the Seniors. He has been crucial in my development and journey and has allowed me to reach my current form.
“In 2014, when I was in the Girls Development Centre, at seven years old I had the opportunity to be a mascot and now I’m playing with them, it’s a dream come true!
“The senior players have welcomed us into the squad and have inspired and motivated us to play and keep on improving. This has been especially true for me as I have looked up to them since being a seven-year-old mascot and wanting to be like them. And now I’m here, playing with them, I feel grateful for this opportunity.”
For Modlen to be playing first-team football in Wales’ highest league at the age of 15 is something special. To be doing it just a matter of months after returning to the sport after a spell away only highlights the scale of what the youngster has achieved.
“As this is my first full season back in a very long time, it feels like everything has been moving so fast. I now feel settled in and enjoying my football with the U19s, however, senior football wasn’t entirely on my radar. But, the opportunity came, and I took it with both hands, and with that came a lot of pressure and nervous emotion.
“I think that was one of the biggest step-ups, the difference in mentality and physicality of playing for the first team comes with a lot of challenges, but I think I do quite well to handle them, and not let them get the best of me. This is mainly because I always tell myself on the pitch that it’s no different to playing in my back garden, the park, at school, or in a training session.
“As long as I’m enjoying it, I’ll be fine. The game is also at a much faster pace and the players are much stronger as they’re older. I’m currently working on improving my fitness which will, in the long run, improve my game.”
Above: Modlen Gwynne warming up ahead of her first-team league debut. Photo: Steve Williams. Supplied to Impetus by: Aberystwyth Town Women.
As well as coming to terms with senior football, Modlen is also approaching her GCSE exams – providing her with yet more hurdles to overcome. “The main challenge is finding the time to revise as I want to prioritise football in every situation, but unfortunately can’t do that as although my mum is extremely supportive, she would not be too happy!
“As I’m training twice a week and playing games for the U19 and seniors weekly finding time in between all of that can be challenging but it is manageable so far as I’m two or three months away from our final exams. I’m extremely excited for a more flexible academic timetable next year that allows me to combine my studies with my football endeavours.”
The Aberystwyth Town starlet is hugely grateful to Impetus for sponsoring her and highlighted the positive impact it will have on her. “It’s really exciting to have my first sponsor! I’m really grateful to Impetus for their interest and support which means I can work hard on my game as well as my school studies and not need to pay for anything football-related. I’m looking forward to next season already.”
However, there are still a few games of this season remaining, and Modlen has set some goals to achieve before 2022/23 comes to an end.
“I hope to keep on scoring goals and winning games with the U19 squad as we are aiming high. As well as playing weekly for the U19s, I’m of course aiming for many more appearances with the first team and to keep on improving as a player so I can secure my place in future seasons.
“I would love to keep on improving as a player and become the best that I can be, to go as far as I can, to make Aberystwyth proud.”
One thing is sure, everyone at Impetus is extremely proud of Modlen Gwynne already and we can’t wait to join her journey at Aberystwyth Town.
Artwork: Steven Brookes. Supplied to Impetus by: Aberystwyth Town Women.
Rachel Lara Cohen reflects on the circumstances that led to Rehanne Skinner departing from the post of Tottenham Hotspur boss this week (16/3/23)
Above: Rehanne Skinner who has left her post as Tottenham’s head coach. Photo: The Telegraph.
Spurs lost their ninth straight game on Sunday at Liverpool. The next day head coach Rehanne Skinner was removed from her post. Skinner had led the team to its highest-ever WSL finish of fifth last season and had done a lot behind the scenes to professionalise and resource the women’s team, but no one’s going to survive that kind of form. Not with Spurs now sitting just two points off relegation.
This is the story of how we got here.
Before things went off the rails there was Brighton away. Spurs’ biggest-ever win in the WSL: eight goals, five scorers, players coming back from injury. Ashleigh Neville, Jess Naz, and Drew Spence each getting a brace. Things had never looked brighter (to make a bad pun).
Above: Before it went wrong, there was Brighton. Photo: Spurs Women
Before Brighton, the season had started with Spurs narrowly beating lower-ranked teams Leicester City, Reading, and Liverpool, each time playing well in the first halves and fading but hanging on after the break. There had been games when Tottenham had lost decisively without scoring to top four teams Arsenal and Manchester City. But none of that seemed cause for concern. Spurs were what people expected of them, a mid-table team, that found it difficult to score sometimes.
And then came Brighton. Goals and more goals. Optimism abounded. But instead of it heralding a new beginning it turned out to be the end of the beginning.
Maybe the first bad sign came the very next week, with the postponement of the match against Everton at home, a game that was billed as the first good test of how Spurs might do against tougher mid-table opposition.
The pitch was waterlogged. Can’t be helped. But so much for momentum. Instead, there was an international break and, a few weeks later, momentum gone, Chelsea away.
1: Chelsea Away
Playing the reigning champions at Stamford Bridge surrounded by hostile fans was never going to be easy. And so it proved. Skinner’s side had no out-and-out striker. Instead, Naz played up front, not her most effective position. There were moments when Tottenham were in the game. But Chelsea scored three times in 24 minutes in the first half and that was it. There were signs that the team had regressed in comparison to the two games played against Chelsea at the end of the previous season. But this was Chelsea. There was no real cause for alarm.
2: Reading Away
This was the first indication that it was not business as usual. Spurs had already played Reading away in the Conti Cup and were easily the better team that day, despite letting the Berkshire side back into the game in the second half and conceding a penalty in the final minutes.
In this WSL encounter, things were very different. For the whole first half, Reading dominated: they were first to balls and looked more confident and fitter. The goal which sealed a 1-0 loss was, however, a defensive fiasco – the first but by no means the last witnessed this season. Becky Spencer made a save and Amy Turner then headed the ball back at her and into the goal. Omnishambles.
Above: One of many mistakes. Own goal against Reading. Photo: Spurs Women.
In the second half, with the introduction of Kerys Harrop and Chioma Ubogagu on the wing Spurs created more chances, but there was no comeback.
3: West Ham at Home
For the second game in a row, Rehanne Skinner started Rosella Ayane at centre-forward. Spurs played better than against Reading. But as in the previous three outings, could not find the back of the net. Then, just before half time, West Ham got a penalty. When they missed it seemed like things might still go the home side’s way. Only for the team to concede minutes after halftime. As individual players tried to equalise there were a number of shots from distance, but nothing quite worked.
And then, as Spurs pushed up, West Ham scored a second almost directly from a Tottenham free kick, with Cissoko breaking from the halfway line while Tottenham centre-backs were stranded up the pitch tearing back, and Becky Spencer in goal was caught off her line. And that was that. Except that in the rush back to clear Molly Bartrip hurt her wrist.
4: Everton at Home
Until the game against Liverpool, this was the nadir.
It was the rearranged game that had initially been scheduled for the week after Spurs played Brighton – a time when everything seemed possible. In the event, it was played on a frozen pitch on a snowy Wednesday in December. In case the weather and the timing were not discouraging enough the game coincided with rail strikes and the men’s world cup semi-Final. And so it was that only about 100 fans were there to see Spurs’ season self-destruct.
All the problems that had marked the previous two games surfaced here. Players lacked ideas on the ball, could not move it forward, and consistently seemed to be two steps slower than the opposition. Everton scored early and then on 36 minutes keeper, Becky Spencer, attempted to dribble around Jess Park who stole the ball and shot into an empty net. By halftime, 2-0 down, it felt over. Tottenham had not scored in three games prior to this game and there was little sign that they would here. Skinner made substitutions, but little changed.
To make matters worse Jessica Naz, who had come on as substitute for Nikola Karczewska, who not up to playing 90 minutes at that point in the season, went off in obvious pain, with an unidentified injury that has kept her out of the team ever since. Then, in injury time Ashleigh Neville dribbled across the front of Spurs’ goal, got pulled back by an Everton player, stayed up but slightly lost control of the ball, and in trying to retrieve it slid in on an Everton player receiving a red card. Oh, and Everton scored a third in the 95th minute.
So that was it. In one miserable evening Spurs played horrible football, suffered a humiliating defeat, and lost two players through injury and suspension. Happy Christmas.
5: Aston Villa Away
This was the start of the new year and the start of hope. Spurs had signed Bethany England. The team had struggled for goals for much of the 2021-22 season and for the first half of the current season, with Karczewska only sometimes available and Kyah Simon injured. So bringing in a prolific goal-scorer was potentially a game-changer.
Above: Bethany England brought hope. Photo: Girls on the Ball.
Surely? After all, the reasoning went: In the previous four games Spurs had not scored, so this must be the solution.
As the game started it seemed like it might be a new Spurs. The team went ahead, against the run of play in the first half. England scored. A goal! It worked.
Then ten minutes later Aston Villa were 2-1 up. Spurs were too easily undone. Kenza Dali, Kirsty Hanson, and Villa’s new signing from Arsenal, Jordan Nobbs, were dominating midfield.
Things improved in the second half after a couple of enforced changes, notably Kerys Harrop on for Amy Turner, which meant Asmita Ale moved to right back and Harrop went at left back and Eveliina Summanen and Celin Bizet on for Chioma Ubogagu and Cho So-hyun. But there was not another goal.
As the game ended it was hard to know what to think. Maybe there were green shoots (a goal) but clearly there was a way to go.
6: Chelsea at Home
This game was the second time that the North Londoners played Chelsea in a week. The first, in the Conti Cup, they lost 3-1. This one Spurs lost again: 3-2. But they were in it. Some of the time at least. Especially in comparison to the game back in November when the team had no response to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
With a squad that now contained both England and Mana Iwabuchi, on loan from Arsenal, and with Neville back from suspension, this was the game that fans had been waiting for. And, for moments at least, those watching could imagine what might be possible. Passes were effective in progressing the ball. Players found space and found one another in space.
And there were goals. The first showed the potential of a Drew Spence – Beth England combination, with Ash Neville starting the move. But it was not just about England. There was a lovely Eveliina Summanen-Nikola Karczewska combination for the second goal, reversing the assist-scorer roles they had played in the previous week’s Conti Cup game against London City Lionesses. And with the score at 3-2, watching fans could at least hope for a last-minute equaliser. Not that one came.
7: Manchester United Home
This game both surpassed and then fell short of expectations. Most Spurs fans went in expecting a loss, playing a high-flying United team at the top of the table. So when the team went a goal down it was disappointing but not unforeseen.
Then the equaliser: Beth England’s glorious solo goal from a cleverly taken quick free kick. Tottenham were back in it. Until, only seconds later United went ahead again, Lucia breaking down the right almost from kick-off, crossing the ball, and Molly Bartrip, who thought she had Leah Galton on her shoulder, sliding it into the net. Not Bartrip’s fault. These things happen. But it was a sign of Spurs’ poor game management. Why had they not taken a minute before the restart? How could they switch off?
And then, Manchester United’s Ella Toone got sent off (won’t go into that here because it’s been discussed). With a player advantage and fifteen minutes to play, Rehanne Skinner subbed on Angharad James, a defensive midfielder. Why? There was an extra striker on the bench.
So, when the game ended 2-1 it was the hope that made it worse. Of all the games since Christmas, this was perhaps the one in which the opportunities were the most obvious. For a draw at least.
8: Manchester City Away
No Bethany England. She had been out with an undisclosed injury the previous week as well and missed a long goalless FA Cup game against Reading that Spurs had (yup) lost on penalties.
After that game, there were questions about whether Tottenham without England could even score. No one was optimistic. And if Chelsea and United had seemed like uphill battles Manchester City with a Bunny Shaw, Chloe Kelly, and Lauren Hemp frontline seemed a lot. Yes, the North London side had won away at City in last year’s WSL. But they had also been thumped at City in the Conti Cup Semi-Final last spring and had gone on to lose to them at home earlier this season 3-0.
So when Celin Bizet scored on the half-hour, coming in late on a Rosella Ayane cross, giving Spurs took the lead, it seemed both miraculous and maybe like history could repeat itself. Until just before halftime when the visitors conceded. And then, just after half-time, they conceded again. From 1-0 up on the 45th minute, Tottenham were 2-1 down in the 47th.
As the second half continued Spurs had chances but City dominated. And even though there had been a few opportunities to equalise, Bunny Shaw’s third goal, in the 83rd minute, was not a surprise.
Photo: Celin Bizet scores at Manchester City. Photo: Spurs Women
9: Liverpool Away
This was the end. For Rehanne Skinner at least. A subsequent vital midweek win over fellow strugglers Leicester City also would bring an end to the losing run.
It was clear to everyone that this game would be critical. It was the first since January’s additions of Iwabuchi and England in which Spurs did not face a top-four opponent. While it is understandable to play well and still lose against Manchester City, this game was only ever going to be about the result. Moreover, Spurs had beaten Liverpool 1-0 in the reverse fixture for their only WSL home win up to that point.
As the game kicked off, Liverpool dominated, winning challenges, seemingly faster, more technical. Then, as against Villa and Chelsea, Spurs went ahead against the run of play. This time with a Rosella Ayane banger. It was the kind of goal that – almost – justifies a manager’s otherwise unfathomable trust in a forward who heretofore had two outfield goals in four years at Spurs, and who misplaces passes with depressing regularity.
But that was a false dawn. In under 20 minutes, the team were behind. Liverpool scored a ‘lucky’ goal and a potentially ‘offside’ goal. But the result did not feel lucky. Liverpool, like Reading, way back in November, seemed to have Spurs’ number. They were hungrier and better equipped to compete for the ball.
And at the back Spurs’ defence, missing Shelina Zadorsky, and for the first time in months, arranged in a back four, exposed Amy Turner, who was lucky not to pick up a second yellow after repeatedly tussling with players who seemed able to beat her with ease.
Meanwhile, the endlessly adaptable Ashleigh Neville looked at times like she thought she was meant to be playing at wing-back, driving forward and then having to chase back, not always successfully. Undoubtedly she wanted to make things happen and felt constrained.
Yet it was only when Asmita Ale, criminally under-used, was brought on as an 80-something-minute substitute that Neville was pushed forward. Why this move was not made earlier is unclear, given that Neville is one of Spurs’ top scorers this season.
Meanwhile, Celin Bizet, excellent against Manchester City, was another late substitute. And Eveliina Summanen, a key part of the Spurs midfield in the games in which the team played their best football (Chelsea, Manchester United), returned from suspension as a second-half substitute.
Aftermath
And that was that. After nearly 24 hours of silence, the club posted on its social media accounts that Rehanne Skinner had left the club.
Skinner’s departure is sad. Anyone who followed Spurs last season when she led a team that never gave up and over-performed expectations will have a long-lasting soft spot for her as a head coach. Since going, she has made a very heartfelt statement about her time at and relationship with the club. There have been messages from players about how much she supported them. We have repeatedly heard about the changes and professionalisation she fought for and won at Spurs. There is a reason the club was so keen that she extend her contract last summer. Her legacy is going to be felt for a long while.
But the nine losses were bad. They were undoubtedly made worse by injuries and scheduling – and a run of games against big teams at a point at which Spurs were actually improving. But there were mistakes, initially an inability to score and then an inability to hold a lead and there were periods of bad football (the pre-Christmas run; this last game against Liverpool) that were not fun to watch and highlighted a raft of unaddressed issues.
Arwen Moses reports for Impetus from Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner‘s media conference ahead of this weekend’s FA Cup clash at Lewes (16/3/23).
Above: Manchester United boss Marc Skinner backs his team to bounce back from a frustrating outcome at Chelsea when they travel to Championship side Lewes in the FA Cup. Photo: Martin Rickett/PA.
Marc Skinner’s Manchester United have made it to the Quarter Final of the Women’s FA Cup, and they are determined to do whatever it takes to get their hands on the silverware.
The Red Devils face Lewes, who currently sit seventh in the Championship at The Dripping Pan on Sunday, and will be looking to regain their winning ways following a loss to Chelsea at the weekend.
In that match, United went down to a goal from Sam Kerr in the 23rd minute. The game was marred by controversy with criticism directed towards the referee. Despite the initial disappointment, Skinner believes that the side have learned from the encounter.
“In all honesty, in the two days afterwards, it was like I couldn’t really get my head around it, it felt like a bit of an injustice. The reality is that games come thick and fast and you have to move forwards. Chelsea were missing a few influential players but they had quality in that team with internationals everywhere.
“I felt like we handled ourselves really well. In those big games, there are only slight moments and they can balance the game. In this one, these didn’t go in our favour. That’s the most dominant that we have been against a Chelsea side and the trends are definitely heading up.
“It’s hard to beat a team like Chelsea when they have a deep-block formation. The reality was that we tried to push to get a result from that game, but it didn’t work. We need to support the referees in being full-time,and being paid to really look after their craft. We are moving to a professional model but our referees aren’t moving towards this professional model.
“Technology can help support decisions, but for me, it’s frustrating. You can choose how you react to moments. At this moment, we don’t want this to be the deciding factor. The one thing that we can do about that is go into the next games and give our absolute all to try and win them. Hopefully, that is an indicating factor on where everyone finishes.
“However, reality is that in these big games, you need people to make big calls, and we didn’t get them on Sunday. We should be making our officials full-time, and then looking to use technology around that.”
Above: Lewes’ iconic home – The Dripping Pan where Manchester United will travel to this weekend. Photo: Lewes FC.
The Manchester United boss was confident that there would be no consequences of lingering frustrations amongst his players ahead of the trip to the Sussex coast. “The great thing about our team is that I don’t have to do much preparation. They are already hungry and they are wanting to pounce on any opportunity that they get.
“The energy in the group is really good. If I look at the last times where we played Chelsea, we played them four times. The first game was six (goals), then four, then three, and now it is one. That game was our best performance against them. I feel we are turning the mindset in those games and we are performing at a better standard and at a better quality.
“We are expecting a higher standard from ourselves. Our sole focus will be our performance in this fixture. We are very good at that. The players take credit for parking it, and moving forward.”
The upcoming fixture has raised some concerns from Lewes, with the team writing an open letter asking for equal prize money for men and women in prestigious competitions such as the FA Cup. Due to their impressive cup run, Lewes have gained £45,000. If their male counterparts completed this achievement, they would take home £450,000. Skinner supported this call for change and commended the Championship side for raising these questions.
“As someone who came from grassroots as well, I commend Lewes for their open voice and for raising it as an issue. We will never change anything unless we raise the issues that we are going through. I support the growth of women’s football and I support Lewes’ message about how we can continue to grow.
“I commend all the girls from Lewes and everyone from behind the scenes who have worked towards equality and equity because we are part of that. I support the message that we keep growing the funding which is coming into the game. It needs to go to teams who need it as well as the teams who are competing at the top level.”
Ahead of the game, Skinner is confident that his side have prepared thoroughly. “We have looked at all their games and how they play. We look at how we can play against them and expose them. This helps take away the ‘banana skin’ potential. Anyone on their day can get fortune and get some good play, but we need to create enough momentum and chances for us to score in the game.
With crucial end-of-season fixtures ahead, it can be said that Skinner’s side will face continued pressure following the cup clash. Ahead of this pivotal period for the side, Skinner will continue to prepare and adapt.
“There may be changes in terms of personnel. We have a really fit and healthy squad right now that we are looking to utilise. I would imagine that everyone will be kept on their toes, and everyone has to perform at the highest level. There will be adaptations with personnel and tactics, but every game for Manchester United is a big game and we don’t treat anybody differently.
“We are trying to push and progress. We are trying to play for the Champions League, compete for leagues, compete for cups. We are pushing towards that. If we do win, then it puts us a step closer to us being able to win a cup, so we will give absolutely everything.”
Ben Gilby reports on today’s events hosted by Adelaide United and Wellington Phoenix (16/3/23).
Adelaide United:
Stenta: Attacking focus enabled return to form
Above: Adelaide United boss Adrian Stenta talking to th media today at Coopers Stadium. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Adelaide United head coach Adrian Stenta told the media today that a specific focus on playing more attacking football was a major contributing factor in the team ending their run of nine matches without a win last week against Perth Glory.
“We have to play a more attacking brand of football and score goals because, for a large part of that slump, we struggled to score goals. It’s been great that we’ve scored six in the last three games. We’ll continue that attacking focus and try to tidy up at the back.”
Stenta revealed that the players found the poor run of results a real challenge, but things began to move in the right direction when the club had the bye a few weeks back.
“Players sometimes struggle for form and confidence when things are not going your way. We had a little break without a game, and I think our three games since then have been a lot more positive. The message was to have belief in yourself and believe you are good enough because they (the players) are good enough.”
The South Australian mantra at the present time is ‘take each game as it comes’, despite the fact that, mathematically, Adelaide United can still qualify for Finals football.
“We’re not really looking at the Finals equation…it’s not really in our hands,” Stenta admitted. “We’ve just set a target for how we want to finish the season, and we did well last week, and we want to win the last three games.
“We went through a rough patch not winning for an extended period, so I think to look at anything other than the next game is a bit dangerous.”
The Reds have the additional boost of the return of Emilia Murray and Grace Wilson who have been away on Young Matildas duty. The duo’s absence coincided with a tough period with injuries among the squad.
“It’s really important for us. Last week we weren’t able to name a full bench. As a coach, it’s nice to have more players available for selection, and I actually have a headache for who to select.”
Wellington Phoenix
Barry: We need to push on and upwards
Above: Mackenzie Barry reflecting on the bittersweet achievement of beating league leaders Sydney FC last weekend. Image: Wellington Phoenix.
Wellington Phoenix defender Mackenzie Barry spoke to the media today of her mixed emotions after the team’s superb win over Sydney FC last weekend as they prepare for the Distance Derby at home to Perth Glory on Saturday.
Barry felt a combination of elation at recording such a superb victory along with a sense of frustration that it has taken over three-quarters of the season for the Nix to gain such a result.
“It was a long time coming,” Barry smiled. “We’ve been building for 13 games and to finally get a result against such a quality team as Sydney just shows that we can beat any team and we are up to standard. It took a while to register (after the game) – 1-0 against Sydney! We’re super happy.
“It took us too long to get used to the level and style of play. Next season, we need to have better preparation, play against other A-League teams (in pre-season) and so get results from the very start, not 12 games in. We have all the resources, the coaching staff, and players. It’s bittersweet, it shows we could have done this all along.”
Barry recognises that one great win does not make a season, and emphasised the need for the team to continue to perform well and pick up points – and target not just second bottom, but even higher.
“It’s important to keep pushing. We just can’t be happy with that (win over Sydney). There are 12 points still up for grabs. Perth are a team we can target and get a result against. We can even aim for pushing past Western Sydney (in ninth place) now. We can progress up the ladder. There are still 12 more points (available).
Cicco: New Zealand feels like home – now the Nix need to extend winning ways
Above: Claudia Cicco was all smiles when speaking to the media today. Image: Wellington Phoenix.
Claudia Cicco has returned to the Wellington Phoenix fold after representing the Young Matildas in the first stage of the AFC Asian U20 Cup qualifiers in Kyrgyzstan.
It was a mammoth journey for the teenager who had to fly from Wellington to Sydney before jumping on two further planes to get to Dubai and then Kyrgyzstan as the Australian U20 side made it through to the next stage of the competition.
“It is very different to any other place I would go to – very different to a sort of holiday environment. It was like a 30-hour trip. They wanted me as a winger where I played first game, and I scored three goals. I told the staff here if they needed someone who could play up front…,” hinted the player who has been used in a more defensive role for the Nix.
Moving away to another country at such a young age to play professional football was a tough experience to start with, but Cicco feels it has benefitted her enormously and admits it will actually be hard to leave New Zealand when she heads home at the end of this season.
“I feel like since joining an A-League team it has helped promote me to Australia. I have definitely got more game time. (New Zealand is) like home now. It’s going to be devastating to leave!”
After her international experience, all Cicco’s attentions are on Wellington Phoenix’s game with Perth Glory on Saturday. She emphasised just how urgent it is that the team extend their three-match unbeaten run at home against the Western Australians.
“It’s really important to win against Perth now. Our team has come together, we understand how we play and we can definitely win.”
Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.
Denise Duffy (DD) grabbed an EXCLUSIVE 1:1 chat with Milly Clegg(MC), Wellington Phoenix’s 17-year-old starlet (15/3/23).
Above: Milly Clegg in action for Wellington Phoenix this season. Photo: stuff.co.nz.
DD: So just tell us about little Milly. How you became the footballer you are. Where did it all start?
MC: So I started when I was five. My brother first got into it. He’s a year older than me. So he was playing football for our primary school. And then I kind of got jealous and I always wanted to play, so I joined as well. The next year I was in a little school team. I played in that for a few years.
And then I joined Ellerslie, the school team was kind of connected with Ellerslie, but then I joined Ellerslie and I played boys for maybe six years. Then around that time, I also moved to MAGS (Mount Albert Grammar School) for high school. So I was playing football there.
Also around that time, I moved to Bucklands Beach AFC where I played in a boys’ team for two or three years. And that was really good for me. Like I really enjoyed my time there. I feel like I developed a lot and I had a great coach. And yeah, it was a great time for me at Bucklands Beach.
Then last year I moved to Auckland United in the women’s team, and I played there for a few games. And then I joined FFDP (Future Ferns Domestic Program) kind of just in preparation for the World Cup, the under-20s, and under-17s.
In between the under-20s, I played a bit for Auckland United again, just to get some games and we ended up playing in the Kate Sheppard Final. So that was really cool. And yeah, just playing a few games then. And then did the U17s World Cup and then straight down to the Phoenix. So that’s everything.
DD: If you had to list a handful of people who do you think are those who were most helpful in your development?
MC: I would definitely say my parents, for sure. The amount of hours that they’ve spent with me taking me to games and even like going in goal when I’m shooting. I’ve got a goal in my backyard, most people would have nice backyards but we have holes in the hedge everywhere. They just spend so much time helping me and just giving me advice. They are always there for me, driving me places, helping me train, and everything like that. So that’s super amazing. And like, I love them so much.
And then I would say my coach at Bucklands Beach, he was like, amazing for me. I feel like I learned a lot from him in terms of footballing. And then kind of just all my coaches. I feel like I’ve learnt a lot from each and every one of them. I’ve learned so many tools from everything that I’ve taken into my game and even outside of my game. That’s been amazing. And even my grandparents and my friends. They’re always there for me and I love them so much.
Above: Milly Clegg looking to break into the box against Western Sydney Wanderers this season. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
DD: That’s wonderful. A teenager that appreciates their parents and their grandparents is great. You’re 17? What’s it been like being a student and a footballer?
MC: I would say I found it a lot more challenging last year with the busy year. I was away for quite a lot of that year so that was quite challenging. My teachers were really amazing and they helped me a lot in navigating that. I did my exams here in Wellington. So obviously, their support was really helpful. It’s kind of been pretty chilled at the moment because we’re just finishing school holidays. So I haven’t had to do much school at the moment. But I’m just starting up now. And it’s probably gonna get a bit more challenging.
DD: So let’s talk about football. Tell us about your football style. Can you come up with three words to describe who you are as a footballer?
I feel like I would probably say tempo and speed. I try to play at a high pace, maybe that’s from playing with boys, so I kind of had to play fast. But yeah, probably speed. I feel like I’m quite direct. Like I always want to try and go to goal, maybe that’s a good thing or a bad thing sometimes. And I would say maybe physical or just always an eye for a goal like I’ll always be like somewhere in the attacking third like wanting to score like always be in and around there. Hopefully.
DD: Those are great qualities. A friend of mine described you as New Zealand’s Rose Lavelle.
MC: That’s a real big compliment! That’s so nice.
DD: It’s probably because you use both feet and you’re quick to the goal. So who do you look up to in the women’s game?
MC: I would say a huge one is Sam Kerr. I feel like me being a striker, she’s obviously one of the best in the world. Just looking at her, she always tries to find a way to score. Often it comes off. So like she’s just a great idol to have in the women’s game. And like even that she’s so close to us from Ozzy. it’s just like a great role model to look up to, I would say, so yeah, she’s probably a big one for me.
DD: What kind of type of contract do you have right now? Can you just explain that a little bit?
I’m on an amateur contract right now. That just means that I preserve my amateur status, which means I would be able to go to an American college if I choose to. So I chose to sign that just because I have no idea what I wanted to do, like, especially after a big year. I just didn’t know whether I still wanted to do that. I was just a bit frazzled. I just wanted to make sure I preserve that option, just in case I did want to go there one day. So that was the thinking behind that.
Above: Milly Clegg in action for New Zealand against the Young Matildas. Photo: 1News.
DD: So can you tell us just a little bit more of your thinking around that now? That was sort of four, five months ago? Anything change with that?
To be honest, not completely, I’ve kind of just been, like full focus on the Phoenix and just enjoying my time here. So I haven’t fully thought about it much at all. I’m happy that I did make that decision because obviously, it takes a lot more time than I thought. I probably thought I would have figured it out by now. But no, I haven’t.
DD: You are at playing the professional level? So what it’s been, what has it been like transitioning from the Kate Sheppard Cup to the Wellington Phoenix and playing pro football?
MC: Yeah, it’s been really good. I’ve been really enjoying it. I feel like my experience at the U20’s was really helpful in terms of the standard. I would say, it’s a pretty similar standard, if not a bit better, obviously. But yeah, it’s been really good. I’ve been enjoying it. Obviously, it’s hard at times, like I wasn’t getting much game time at the start. Only starting to get a bit more now. So I’m really happy about that. And hopefully, I’ve been taking my chance to try and keep getting game time and things like that. Yeah, it’s been really good. I’ve been really enjoying it and I’ve really been learning a lot so it’s been amazing playing pro.
MC: Any highlights so far?
I would say probably my first goal was a big highlight, especially with the team winning 5-0. That was an amazing day and just one to remember forever really.
DD: What’s been the most difficult part of playing with the Wellington Phoenix?
MC: I would say probably just probably moving away from home at the start was quite tough. I hadn’t moved away from home before. So it was a bit tough, and especially paired with not getting as much game time at the start, that was quite challenging. But luckily, the people that I’m living with, they’re amazing. Like they’re my teammates and all the teammates and coaching staff are amazing. It was hard, but they made it a lot better, and obviously phone calling and things like that. It was quite easy to stay here and I’m loving it right now. So it’s been good, hard, but like, it’s really good.
DD: Who are your teammates you’re living with?
MC: So I’m living with Izzy Gomez, Mona (Te Reremoana Walker), Candy (Georgia Candy), Charlotte Lancaster and (Claudia) Cicco.
Above: Milly Clegg celebrating after scoring her first professional for Wellington Phoenix as they thrashed Canberra United 5-0 this season. Photo: stuff.co.nz
DD: So who’s the best cook?
Oh, I’d say Candy. She’s very good. She’s taking a few cooking lessons as well. So she’s pretty good.
DD: And who’s the neat freak?
MC: I’d say we’re pretty kind of, actually Cicco’s pretty neat freak. But not like, insane. Like, I would say, our flat it’s pretty clean most of the time. Actually not much to complain about.
DD: You know, tell us about being identified as a national team player at the various levels. When and how did that happen? What was that like?
MC: It happened pretty out of the blue really in 2019. I was very young. So I went to the Nationals Secondary School’s Tournament and I think I did quite well there. So Leon (Birnie) invited me to a camp after that. So that was my first involvement in that at all for under 17s. Then I got picked for the qualifying tournament. That was supposed to be the last World Cup cycle qualifying in Tahiti, but that got canceled twice, one for measles and one for COVID. And then eventually that cycle just kind of died out because the World Cup got cancelled.
And then the year before last year I was playing against the FFDP with the Bucklands Beach Boys team. And the coaches were Gemma (Lewis) and Nat (Natalie Lawrence) and they were the coaches for under 20s. So after that game, they invited me to the 20s camp in 2021. And then after kind of just being in those camps for 2021, then 2022 was the first time I was selected for a tour, which was really exciting. I went to Canberra for the under-20s. That was really fun, obviously amazing. Then had a few more tours with the U20’s for the two World Cups. So that was amazing. So lucky to be a part of both of those.
DD: You’re definitely an up-and-coming Fern. People are seeing great potential in you including a bunch of writers and tv commentators. What do you think has made you a topic of discussion for a senior call-up?
MC: I am not a hundred percent sure, to be honest. I don’t know, maybe the goals? I don’t know. Maybe the attacking mindset? I’m not 100% sure, but yeah, probably the goals. Obviously scoring at the World Cups was probably helpful for that and then scoring in the A-League was really helpful, but yeah.
DD: Then another, another slightly provocative one, but kind of fun. The opening match for the Football Ferns will be July 20th. In any capacity, will you be there?
MC: Oh, I have no clue. I have no idea. What anything, anyone’s thinking. So I don’t know. I’ll keep working hard and see what happens. I’ll try my best.
Above: Milly Clegg with the young Ferns. Many are pushing for her inclusion into this year’s senior World Cup squad. Photo: stuff.co.nz
DD: Would you be there as a fan?
MC: Of course, I’ll be there as a fan. 100%.
DD: Who are you rooting for in this World Cup? If you had a few people that you are cheering for either as a fan or just someone that inspires you or someone that matters to you?
MC: Yeah, I would say I’m rooting for probably some of my friends. Like, I’m really rooting for them to do well, even my football friends and like football teammates, I’m really rooting for them to do well. Obviously, my parents, I want them to do well, enjoying life and things like that. Hopefully, we’re providing them a bit of joy. I don’t know, just kind of everyone in my life, I’d probably root for them to do well.
DD: Yeah, that’s beautiful. You come across as very positive. That’s pretty much all I have. Just a quick, fun, glimpse into who you are and who’s coming up through the ranks. A new face even for the Wellington Phoenix. I love how grateful you’ve been to your parents and to everyone involved in your journey.
MC: Thank you so much for the interview and thank you to the fans for cheering us on.
Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.
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