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Late drama as Sydney FC defeat Melbourne Victory to seal Grand Final return

Sydney FC 1-0 Melbourne Victory

By Kieran Yap (22/4/23)

Above: Matchwinner Madison Hayley for Sydney FC. Photo: Liberty A-League.

Sydney FC are through to a sixth straight A-League Women’s Grand Final after edging past a stubborn Melbourne Victory 1-0 at Allianz Stadium.

The two sides entered this game under very different circumstances. Sydney FC were looking for a response to a surprise loss to Western United last week, while Melbourne Victory had momentum behind them after a thrilling win against Melbourne City.

Momentum and the form of Casey Dumont in goal was their best chance in this game. Without the suspended Amy Jackson in midfield, Jeff Hopkins was forced into a reshuffle. Nat Tathem moved into midfield, and Beattie Goad was pushed to fullback to deal with the threat of Cortnee Vine.

Ava Briedis started for the second time this season. The tricky winger was involved early but faded in as the half wore on and Sydney FC began to dominate. At just 17 years old, there is much more to come from the Young Matildas attacker.

The home side looked comfortable and moved the ball much more easily than they did against Western United. The slightly improved state of the pitch helped, but Princess Ibini and Sarah Hunter were in fine touch. The pair switched play and directed attacks. Ibini was unlucky not to score with a swerving shot that forced a diving save from Dumont, and a combination with Madison Haley almost set up Rachel Lowe to score, but the chance was snuffed out by some proactive goalkeeping.

Victory set themselves up to defend. Catching Sydney FC on the counterattack was always a difficult task with Goad on defensive duties and Lia Privitelli on the bench due to injury. Although Sydney FC controlled possession and created chances, they rarely looked like scoring in the first half. Both teams looked like they were playing according to plan, yet neither looked entirely comfortable in the game.

Sydney FC looked much stronger this week with Madison Haley in the side. Rachel Lowe has been excellent as a mobile, creative forward, but what works against sides in the bottom half of the table is not necessarily the best plan in finals.

Against Melbourne Victory, she was a handful, and frequently required the attention of multiple defenders. Along with Princess Ibini, she looked the most likely to break the deadlock and when she hit a strong, athletic half-volley in the second half, it looked destined to ripple the net but skidded wide.

**Above:** Kirsty Fenton (left) and Ava Briedis battle for possession today. **Photo:** Keep Up.

Victory struggled to get a shot on goal, and their best chances came from pressuring Jada Whyman in goal. Melina Ayres forced an error from the Sydney FC goalkeeper, but could not capitalise. A later corner kick evaded Whyman’s clutches, but the header from Claudia Bunge did not clear the defence.

As the half wore on, the effects of Victory’s epic semi-final started to show. Clearances became more tired, and more gaps began to appear for Vine to dash into. When the goal came it felt both fortunate and inevitable.

Nat Tobin took matters into her own hands and embarked on a strong attacking run into the area. A series of tired clearances from Victory eventually fell to Sarah Hunter in space on the edge of the box. Her ball in was spilled by Dumont and Haley reacted quickest to poke home the scrappiest of winners.

The ball bobbled over the line, and Sydney FC had produced far more aesthetically pleasing moves in the game, but they would not care. They finally had their first goal of this finals series, and it had come too late for Victory to respond.

So Sydney FC are into a sixth straight Grand Final, and although Western United defeated them a week earlier, they will be confident. They have an almost fully fit side, their centre forward has rediscovered her scoring touch, and any player that had a down game in the first final redeemed themselves in this one.

The reigning premiers deservedly have a chance to add to this season’s silverware and to win the only trophy that has evaded them in these dominant years. Quietly, the APL must be breathing a sigh of relief that this is not an all-Melbourne final in Sydney, but it still feels unfair that Western United would have won the right to host the final and would be doing so in a historic day had the rules of the competition not been changed mid-way through the season.

Melbourne Victory had a successful season by another other club’s standards. As the winners of the last two Grand Finals, they will be disappointed. However, they had a brave campaign and kept grinding out results despite the injuries and departures of Alex Chidiac, Elise Kellond-Knight, and Paige Zois. They spent a large chunk of the season without Catherine Zimmerman and Melina Ayres and relied on the youth in the team far more than they would have expected before 2022/23 began.

The good news is that these players largely stepped up when needed. Alana Murphy looks to be a genuine star in the making, and Ava Briedis has all the skills and physical attributes to be an excellent player. Only inexperience and the fitness to play a full game are in her way between being a squad player and a gun winger for the club.

**Above:** Madison Haley (left) celebrates her late winner with Mackenzie Hawkesby. **Photo:** Keep Up.

In this context, making the finals is a massive achievement, and winning the first one against the odds was a momentous occasion. They will not feel like it now, but they gave their fans a thrilling ride and some unforgettable highlights.

But this afternoon was all about Sydney FC. There are few weaknesses in this squad. Ante Juric has built a cohesive and dependable starting 11, that has defensive stability and multiple threats in attack.

On the bench, there is almost unparalleled depth. In Mackenzie Hawkesby and Sarah Hunter, they have the league’s most dominant midfield pairing, and in Cortnee Vine the competition’s most dangerous player. Being able to bring on Indiana Dos Santos to try and change the game is a luxury few sides have, at just 15 she is already a proven senior player with match-winning potential.

They will face Western United next week and have lost to them twice this season, but not twice in a row. It will be an epic final between two sides that play different styles and have very different stories. It will take something special to decide the champions of 2022/23.

Speaking after the game, Sydney FC head coach Ante Juric said: “We attacked so much and we questioned whether we were going to get the goal but it was superb and we showed that emotion once the goal went in.

“A lot of our players now have another game under their belt like Charlotte (Mclean) and Madi (Haley) which will stand us in good stead for the final.”

Matchwinner Madison Haley reflected on her thought process in scoring the late goal saying: “I’d been saying all game to follow up everything and that was me sticking to the game plan.

“I knew extra time was looming and that was the perfect chance, I saw the ball fall in front of me and just had to get there and keep it low and it went in.”

Teams: SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Whyman, Mclean, Fenton, Hunter, Lowe, Haley, Vine, Tobin, Hawkesby, Rule, Ibini. Substitutes: Offer (GK), de la Harpe, Hollman, Dos Santos, Badawiya.

Scorers: Haley 88’.

MELBOURNE VICTORY (4-3-3): Dumont, Nash, Bunge, Morrison, Goad, Tathem, Murphy, Eliadis, Briedis, Ayres, Zimmerman. Substitutes: Garton (GK), Markovski, Curtis, Privitelli, Simon.

Referee: Isabella Blaess.

Attendance: 1,630.

**Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.**

Jeff Hopkins: Previous GFs have no bearing – We’re focussed on getting that result

by Ben Gilby (21/4/23).

Above: Melbourne Victory boss Jeff Hopkins speaking to the media ahead of tomorrow’s Preliminary Final at Sydney FC. Image: Melbourne Victory.

Melbourne Victory head coach Jeff Hopkins emphasised to the media today that his team has totally recovered from 120 minutes of dramatic Semi-Final action and are prepared to deny Sydney FC a fourth straight Grand Final appearance.

Hopkins outlined that whilst the early part of the week focussed on recovery, his team are now well versed in what they need to do to defeat Sydney FC yet again in a Final, and they will travel to New South Wales with almost their whole squad available to choose from.

“We had lots of massage and rest on Monday, a day off on Tuesday and the only player that won’t be available is Miranda (Templeman). She fell heavily on her knee early on in the week, so we’ll be bringing another goalkeeper, Gaby (Garton) in. Apart from that, everyone is available. We enjoyed last week, we’ve put that behind us, and we’re totally focussed now on the weekend.”

It has been made abundantly clear to Victory players that their dramatic penalty shoot- out win over Melbourne City will mean nothing now their next challenge is awaiting. Complacency is not an option.

“We played a Final last week. It is not acceptable to us as a group to think we played our Final. If we enjoyed it too much, then that massive high will be hit by a massive low this week. We’re totally focussed on going to Sydney and getting that result. I’m not interested in what they (Sydney FC) do or what preparation they do. We’ve had a good week. We’ve had good tactical work-outs, the girls are physically sharp.”

The defending champions’ head coach was also very clear in emphasising that his team’s wins over Sydney FC in the last two Grand Finals has absolutely no bearing on tomorrow’s showdown.

“The game is a new fresh game. Last year, last game, last week doesn’t come into it. This is a fresh game. They know us inside out, we know them inside out. It’s about getting us physically and mentally prepared and having one or two things up our sleeve that we do differently in terms of personnel and tactics. It will be down to the day.”

**Above:** Melbourne Victory captain Kayla Morrison (left) and Sydney FC captain Nat Tobin with the A-League Women Grand Final trophy. **Photo:** Mark Kolbe/Getty Images **supplied to *Impetus* by:** A-Leagues.

In terms of what he is expecting from the home side tomorrow, Hopkins first identified the two options he has in how to set his team up tomorrow, saying: “You can sit back into a deeper block and try and frustrate them, and Western United did that well last week, or you can get in their face, get up, press, and pressure.

“Sydney FC are a very quick, dynamic team. I see the game being pretty open, end to end with two teams setting themselves up to defend the opposition, but also being positive. We can’t fall into the trap of going there, sitting back, and looking to nick the game. We know we need to be positive when we have the ball and do what we have to do without it.”

“I have massive respect for Ante (Juric) as a coach and a massive respect for them as a team. They have been the benchmark for the last three or four years. To beat a team as good as them is a big motivation to get to the Grand Final.”

Highlighting two of his team’s key players in last week’s win over Melbourne City, Melina Ayres, and Casey Dumont, Hopkins said: “Our team have lost one in 18. Melina is scoring in every game she plays.

“She will be a target for them to keep as quiet as they possibly can. It will be a very difficult job. She doesn’t need time or space, she creates it herself. She scores spectacular goals and brings other people into the game well. Some have that big match mentality, she definitely has that.”

When it came to Dumont’s heroics in shot stopping and penalty scoring, Hopkins smiled: “She saved a penalty in normal time, remember, and all the girls rushed to congratulate her, but she was like: ‘No! Get away from me! There’s a corner to defend!’

“When I first came to this club she was one of my first targets, and she’s never let me down. Her motivation is to do well for this club. She enjoys playing for this club, she loves the girls and being here. Her main motivation is to win another Grand Final. She’s the best goalkeeper in the A-League Women at the moment in my eyes.”

Click on this link to read coverage from Sydney FC’s media conference ahead of the match: https://impetusfootball.org/2023/04/20/sarah-hunter-sydney-have-to-capitalise-on-their-chances/

**Artwork by: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.**

Manchester United v Arsenal Photo Gallery

Matthew Appleby was at the Leigh Sports Village for Impetus last night to capture all the big match action as top WSL heavyweights battled it out (20/4/23).

Above: Arsenal tackling denies Manchester United a chance last night. Photo: Matthew Appleby for Impetus.

Manchester United 1-0 Arsenal

Manchester United followed up their qualification for the FA Cup Final by going four points clear at the top of the WSL table with victory over Arsenal.

Alessia Russo’s strike deep into first-half injury time from Nikita Parris’ pass – ironically United’s first shot on target all night – was ultimately the difference.

Whilst Marc Skinner’s team’s victory was vital, thoughts dwelt on a serious looking injury to Lionesses’ captain Leah Williamson whose leg appeared to buckle underneath her around the 15 minute mark.

Chelsea have two games in hand on United which, if both were won would see Emma Hayes’ side leapfrog the North-West outfit at the top of the ladder with it all to play for in the final five weeks of the season.

Matthew Appleby’s exclusive photo gallery for Impetus from Leigh Sports Village:

Teams: MANCHESTER UNITED (4-2-3-1): Earps, Batlle, Le Tissier, Mannion, Blundell, Ladd, Zelem, Parris, Toone, Galton, Russo. Substitutes used: Williams (for Russo 72′), Thomas (for Parris 88′), Turner (for Toone 88′).

Scorer: Russo 45+6′.

ARSENAL (4-3-3): Zinsberger, Weinroither, Wubben-Moy, Carvalho Souza, Maritz, Maanum, Williamson, Walti, Pelova, Blackstenius, Kuhl. Substitutes used: Queiroz Costa (for Williamson 15′), Beattie (45′), Catley (for Kuhl 45′), Taylor (for Queiroz Costa 73)’.

Referee: Abigail Byrne.

Attendance: 6,658.

Birmingham City v Durham Photo Gallery

Suvadeep Biswas was pitchside at St. Andrews last night to capture all the action as Birmingham City hosted Durham in the Championship (20/4/23),

Above: Birmingham City fire in a shot at home to Durham last night. Photo: Suvadeep Biswas for Impetus.

Birmingham City 1-0 Durham

The Blues cemented second place in the Championship after a 1-0 victory over Durham that saw them go four points behind leaders Bristol City with two games remaining.

After a goalless first half, City secured their fifth successive win on the hour mark thanks to Tara Bourne who smashed home after Durham keeper Naoisha McAloon repelled a header that fell invitingly for her to smash home.

Birmingham travel to the North-East on Sunday to face Durham once more before ending the season at home to Bristol City – which, if Charlton Athletic can come to the Midlanders’ assistance this weekend, could decide which side gains promotion to the WSL for next season.

Suvadeep Biswas’ photo gallery for Impetus from St. Andrews:

Teams: BIRMINGHAM CITY: Thomas, Scott, Louise Quinn, Bourne, Lucy Quinn, Finn, McLoughlin, Harris, Pennock, Hodson, Walker. Substitutes: Jones, Simkin, Lawley, Jenner, Murray, Estcourt, Devlin, Smith, Worsley.

Scorer: Bourne 60′.

DURHAM: McAloon, Robert, Briggs, Lambert, Wilson, Robson, Hepple, Bradley, Ayre, Noonan, Clarke. Substitutes: Saunders, Farrugia, Hardy, Galloway, Crosthwaite, Salicki.

Sarah Hunter: Sydney have to capitalise on their chances

by Ben Gilby (20/4/23)

Above: Sarah Hunter speaking to the media today. Image: Sydney FC.

Sydney FC defender Sarah Hunter today told the media that despite their semi-final loss to Western United, confidence is high in the camp ahead of this weekend’s Preliminary Final showdown with Melbourne Victory.

“Everyone is super determined. Everyone knows that this is the big game for us as once you are in a Grand Final, anything can happen. This is the one we want to win, 100%. We’re pretty pumped for this game, especially with it being Victory, someone we have some history with (losing to them in the last two Grand Finals).

“We’re pretty relaxed, pretty excited, there’s obviously a lot of different emotions. Coming off that loss (to Western United last weekend), there are some negatives, but we’re moving off that game and focusing on Victory now. There are positive vibes.”

Looking back at last week’s 1-0 defeat to Western United, Hunter felt that the game ultimately came down to which team was able to convert their opportunities.

“We had lots of chances. I think Hannah Keane is in some good form, she is the Golden Boot leader, and she put away that chance like a good striker. That’s something we didn’t do, so we will look at that. We put six away against Victory last time, so we have that ability to score lots of goals. It’s about how we can connect those chances into goals.

“We have to capitalise on chances and take advantage. We need to learn and take what we learned from that semi-final (against Western United), and how can we put that experience into this game, turn the page, look at Victory and how we can beat them. Take the learnings from that game and take the fresh ideas into this game.”

With three of the four Finals places this season being taken by the league’s Melbourne-based teams, the 19-year-old outlined how she feels it has taken the rivalry between to the two cities to a new level.

“Since the A-League started, there has been that Sydney-Melbourne battle. There’s three teams this year (Melbourne teams) and just us (in the Finals), so we’re flying the flag for New South Wales. With the Grand Final being in Sydney, obviously, we want to be in it, we don’t feel pressure, but want to be there. It’s definitely part of our motivation for there not to be two Melbourne teams in in it (the Grand Final).”

Hunter also revealed the outlook for Cortnee Vine to play in the big match on Saturday is positive. “She looks good. She says she feels fine, and I think she’ll be ready to go at the weekend. She has come off a lot of high-intensity games. She’s recovering and allowing her body to be ready for this game.”

Kelly Stirton: ParaMatildas are growing and aiming for Asian Cup glory

by Ben Gilby (19/4/23)

Above: ParaMatildas head coach Kelly Stirton advises her squad during training. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

Almost a year ago, the ParaMatildas reached the first-ever Women’s IFCPF World Cup Final and produced a heroic display in going down to the United States. Now, with her side ranked as the best team on the planet, Australia head coach Kelly Stirton has a home Asian Cup to prepare for.

In a reflective interview with Impetus‘ Ben Gilby, Stirton reflected on last year’s debut World Cup tournament in Salou, Spain. The ParaMatildas head coach swelled with pride.

“I think my main memory over the last 12 months is the development of our players. From where we started prior to the World Cup (eight weeks of training) to the end of the World Cup and coming second, what more could a coach ask for. Yes, we were upset we lost the final, but the players were so happy two minutes later because they got to play football for their country. These are the moments a coach lives for.”

**Above:** The ParaMatildas team at last year’s IFCPF World Cup. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Football Australia.

Whilst the ParaMatildas have not played a game since last year’s World Cup, they have still been busy. “After the World Cup, we held a couple of training camps and we have had one in 2023 with a few more to happen along with the IFCPF Asia-Oceania Championship in November this year.

“Players were given a strength and conditioning program to work on and some were training with clubs to keep the touches on the ball. Staff were preparing for upcoming camps and doing online meetings to keep the connection going with the players and staff,” revealed Stirton.

Last month saw the announcement that Australia will be hosting the inaugural Para Asia Cup. Reflecting on the impact that this tournament will have on her team, Stirton said: “It is very exciting for the girls to be able to play on home soil, especially with such a major tournament. We get to play in front of friends and family that may have never been able to see them play before.”

In terms of the ParaMatildas’ potential rivals for silverware at the tournament, their head coach identified one nation in particular. “Japan is a big threat for us. They are a quality team and showcase some fantastic football. They tested us during the World Cup and now one year on, they will be stronger and better.”

**Above:** ParaMatildas head coach Kelly Stirton speaking to the media during last year’s IFCPF World Cup. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Football Australia.

The impact and visibility of the Australian team at the World Cup has led to an increased potential player pool for the team ahead of the Asian Cup, a situation that Stirton welcomes, but believes can grow further in the future.

“Since the World Cup we have had 10 new players come into the fold. There are certainly a lot of players who are on the radar and ready for the next step. It is a great problem to have as a coach. I am sure as time goes on and the word spreads, we will have many more. We would love to have a development team, that is the dream and goal.

“Our training begins now, even though we aren’t together as a squad, we will touch base with the players over the next couple of months to ensure that they are ready to go in the upcoming camps. Our next camp will be coming up in May.”

That increase of the potential player pool is something that hugely excites Stirton as the impact of the ParaMatildas filters across the country, but there is still room for improvement.

“New South Wales is leading the way in female programs; however, the other states are starting to build more in the women’s space. We are looking to connect with all the other states to start building the program and hopefully build programs in each state.”

NTC’s young guns Emerge as potential stars: NPLW Victoria Wrap Round Five

By Kieran Yap (14/4/23)

Above: FV Emerging in possession at Box Hill United. Photo: Passion Creations.

Round Five of Victoria’s NPLW saw FV Emerging record an impressive win, while two of the form sides this season clashed at Olympic Village. Preston Lions continued their strong start to the season, while Bayside United stumbled against South Melbourne.

Box Hill United 2-5 FV Emerging

The first game of the round was a goal fest between two of the league’s most exciting teams. Box Hill United may be in 10^th place after this round, but have scored 11 times in the first five games. FV Emerging are not far behind with 10.

The resurgence of the Football Victoria development team continued in this match. Since losing 6-1 to South Melbourne in round two, they have rapidly improved.

Box Hill United started the stronger of the sides on Friday night, but it was FV Emerging who struck first. A throw-in looked to be no threat to the home side, but a slick passing move found Candice Kilderry who worked her way into space and remained more composed than the goalkeeper to tap into an empty net in the 12^th minute.

Box Hill responded almost straight from the kick-off. The pace of Anais Josefski is an ever-present threat and she earned the home side a corner that was finished from point-blank range by Sienna Techera.

Parity only lasted another 10 minutes. A half chance fell to Emily Keppens who struck without hesitation from the edge of the box to make it 2-1 for FV Emerging

Alana Cortellino was a constant menace for FV Emerging. Her trickery on the right flank earned a corner for the visitors. Mila Bulic met the delivery with a bullet header into the ground and over the line.

Box Hill returned fire before halftime. Techera was again involved as she has been for most of Box Hill United’s best moves this season. After receiving the ball wide, the prodigious playmaker held up the ball and delivered a perfect cross for Asuka Doi to score with an unstoppable header.

FV Emerging started the second half as they did the first. It was Cortellino’s time to get on the scoresheet herself and her composed finish made it 4-2 in the 47^th minute.

Anika Doveston’s skilful run and cut back across goal created Emerging’s fifth of the night. Carina Rossi was well-positioned and only had to tap the ball home to seal the points for the visitors.

South Melbourne 2-1 Bayside United

A Tayla Christensen brace was enough for South Melbourne to overcome Bayside United. The visitors are a vastly improved side since last season and proved a difficult opponent for the traditional giants of the league.

Christensen’s first goal came in the seventh minute. A long ball forward was crossed in from the left by Danielle Wise. The ball evaded both defenders and fell to the edge of the box. Christensen was unmarked but still had to finish beyond two Bayside players and the goalkeeper. She did so with a low hard shot across goal to open the scoring.

Bayside levelled the scores soon after. Kayla Deaver read a speculative cross best at the back post and tucked away the equaliser for the visitors.

Christensen’s eventual winner arrived before halftime. Akeisha Sandhu’s throw-in found Christensen with her back to goal and closely marked. A quick turn beat the first defender, a change of pace took care of the second. Then a wonderful finish into the roof of the net put South back in the lead. they would maintain that through the second half to climb to fifth on the ladder.

Calder United 2-1 Southern United

Calder United have had a slower start to the season than 2022’s treble winners are used to. But they got back to winning ways against Southern United through Fiorina Iaria and Lucy Richards.

They would suffer a scare first. Jade Tam’s long-range free-kick found the back of the net from almost 40 yards. It was a spectacular effort, but Lara El-Hayek in goal was well positioned and would have expected to save it. The power and trajectory were a shock to all who saw it.

It took Calder until the second half to equalise. They grew into the game and Iaria’s finish was bullet-like from the edge of the box. She showed no hesitation and struck as soon as she found space behind the Southern United defence.

The winning goal arrived late. A corner kick to Calder caused panic in the six-yard box before Richards eventually thrashed the ball home. Elle Talevski looked to be a casualty of the win. She stayed down amid the celebrations and required treatment in the closing minutes.

Boroondara-Carey Eagles 1-4 Preston Lions

Two of the league’s newcomers met as the high-flying clubs vied for top spot on the ladder. The Lions ran out winners with two goals either side of halftime in a consistent attacking display.

Miri Nishimura set up the opening goal. Her corner kick was whipped in at the near post and Delaney Lindahl rose highest to flick it into the net.

Rachel Stirton extended the lead. She outpaced the Boroondara defenders and raced into space to flick the ball beyond the goalkeeper with a well-placed first-time shot.

The Eagles found a lifeline when Kurea Okino earned herself a penalty. The ever-dangerous Japanese striker has been a handful for defenders this season and her headed control took the ball beyond her marker who blocked her path. The referee pointed to the spot and Okino converted the penalty herself.

The comeback would not eventuate for Boroondara-Carey. Nishimura and Melanie Camilleri scored twice in the second half to complete a convincing win and launch The Eagles into first spot on the ladder.

Heidelberg United 0-0 Alamein FC

That this game ended up scoreless would be a surprise to most neutral observers. Both sides are in strong form, while Heidelberg are still building and remain in the top three, Alamein got their season off to a stronger start but have now failed to score in the last two games.

A red card to Karina Tolios in the 51^st minute meant that Heidelberg had to hold on with 10 players. With usual goalkeeper Melissa Maizels on duty with Melbourne Victory’s semi final coaching team, this was a good draw for the Bergers, but they will have expected more, such are the standards set by Johnno Clemente last season.

Alamein will need to rebound and rediscover their goal-scoring form. They host FV Emerging next week, who are high on confidence and will provide a strong test.

Greg Farrell: Driving Subiaco to new heights

For this week’s WA On Wednesday NPLW WA feature, Subiaco head coach Greg Farrell speaks to Ben Gilby about last season’s historic campaign, and his determination to continue the development of the club to ensure a sustainable upward trajectory (19/4/23).

Above: Subiaco head coach Greg Farrell. Photo: Subiaco AFC.

Last season, Greg Farrell led Subiaco to the best campaign in their short NPLW history with six wins and 21 points from their 21 matches which saw them finish 19 points clear of bottom side Curtin University.

Whilst the mid-season signing of Matildas Ella Mastrantonio and Lisa De Vanna, plus former Perth Glory star Marianna Tabain took the headlines, as Farrell reflected, the achievements were down to more than just the arrival of three players.

“The club had put a great deal of time and effort into its previous two campaigns, but there was a definite lack of a philosophy or mentality other than to be physically competitive with teams. To progress and encourage the players to develop positive habits and confidence in playing football, with the ball, that mentality and confidence had to become habit.

“That’s what last season was, the players who were at the club and still are, are the ones who took the messaging on board and were able to adapt and improve. It also helped that after equalling the most points the club had ever had in an NPL season before we got two-thirds of the way through the season, we were then able to recruit (those three players). Our TD Adi Juric played a big part in bringing Lisa, Ella, and Marianna in, and they contributed a great deal in training and games to help the players that we had, to see what the next levels looked like.

Farrell was keen not to rest on his laurels and is passionate about driving continual improvement at the club. In terms of his priorities in recruitment, the Subiaco head coach said: “We had assessed who we wanted to keep from last season and we gave some players the first six weeks of pre-season to potentially earn themselves a spot this season.

“The emphasis was definitely on young players who can be further developed and moulded into future NPLW or A-League players, are confident with the ball, and have a desire to prove themselves capable of doing well in the NPLW or further.

“We also wanted to continue to promote the progress of the 21s who had their best-ever season last season, while they too were adapting to the new style of play and philosophies. And finally, it was to make sure coaching staff were brought in who could improve us, and give us a better holistic approach with strength and conditioning and analysis being more of a focus as we moved to the senior teams training three times a week for both pre-season and the season proper.

**Above:** Marianna Tabain in action for Subiaco AFC last season. The former Perth Glory W-League legend is back in Greg Farrell’s squad again for this campaign. **Photo:** JASP Photography.

“(In terms of players coming in) We identified players who I’d coached previously at Northern Redbacks in Siena Crevacore, Rachel Larsen and Steph Waycott, and then others who had stood out at other clubs, such as Danielle Suckling, Dakota Van Vugt and Taylor Reid from Curtin and Ava Richards from the NTC amongst others.

“Steph adds guile and understanding while the others add youthful exuberance and that intention and desire to develop and to prove themselves. At the moment Lisa De Vanna isn’t coming back for this season but who knows what will happen as the season progresses.”

Subiaco opened with the Night Series before starting their NPLW WA campaign with a comfortable win over Curtin University and losses to Perth SC and Hyundai NTC – the latter match saw Farrell’s side come back from 4-0 down to just a single goal behind with three minutes to go before conceding a late fifth.

“We started the night series brightly against Perth, going 1-0 up within the first 10 minutes. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to replicate that in the first league game of the season, but hopefully with a few players back who missed that game, as we move forward we’ll continue to improve.”

In terms of his aims for this season, Farrell wants to build on the firm foundations of last season’s achievements and ensure the club’s fortunes continue to improve year-on-year.

“We want to challenge for the top four. When I came to Subiaco, I said that by 2024 we should be pushing to finish in the top two or three in the league. 2023 is about continuing to improve the style of football the club is known for, and as the players improve, so too will the results.

“We’ve got a talented group, but they need time and experience at this level and that only comes through playing games together. If we are close come the end of the season and can nick fourth place, then finals are up to who gets things right on one day, and we’d go for broke if we were to earn that opportunity. But there’s a lot of hard work between now and then and no doubt there’ll be some hiccoughs along the way.”

**Above:** Greg Farrell who now oversees the whole female football department at Subiaco. **Photo:** Subiaco AFC.

However, success at Subiaco is not just about improved fortunes for the senior side. Sustainable long-term achievement in the NPLW comes through the development of young players coming through the ranks at the club.

“For the seniors, we’ve had a large turnover of players in the off-season with more than 30 players coming into our NPLW program (first team, 21s, and 18s), hopefully, we’ve got the core of our senior squads for the next several years now. The club have recently announced I will be the female football coordinator for this season to try to provide more of a philosophical link from the grassroots female players, all the way to the first team.

“The messaging about technical proficiency and decision-making development and love of the ball will be key so that we are getting players coming up to the seniors with a good understanding of the game and confidence to express themselves.

“Last season in the first team we beat the NTC and Curtin twice and drew them both once, and we beat Balcatta twice. If the first team and 21s can improve their performance levels from last season, the 18s can get more and more competitive as the Women’s League One season goes on, and the junior girls’ teams begin to focus on that philosophical message of the style of play being the most important thing to allow individuals to improve, then we will have progressed in 2023.”

Finally looking more widely at the NPLW WA this season, the Subiaco head coach admitted he sees a tighter competition ahead in 2023.

“The league is definitely evening out with more talented players going in search of first-team football if they aren’t getting it regularly at the clubs like RedStar, Fremantle, and Perth.

“The NTC will always compete because they have some of the best under 17 – 20-year-old players in the state. Balcatta and Murdoch University Melville have historically been strong and have the development pathways in place so they can replace players when there has been turnover for them since the inception of the NPLW.”

Welsh Weekend Wrap

Martin Townley and Perry Dobbins combine to deliver their excellent detailed coverage of the weekend’s games in Wales’ top leagues. Martin rounds up the action and Perry’s superb pitchside photo gallery this week comes from Cardiff City’s South Wales derby against Swansea City at the Cardiff City Stadium as the Bluebirds lifted the Adran Premier championship trophy (18/4/23)

Above: Cardiff City poised to put in a tackle to stop Swansea City in their tracks. Photo: Perry Dobbins.

Adran Premier

Cardiff City 3-1 Swansea City

The Bluebirds finished their season off in style as they beat Swansea at Cardiff City Stadium.

Cardiff’s day of celebration didn’t get off to the start they wanted when Katy Hosford gave the visitors the lead in the 36^th minute. However, Cardiff were soon level thanks to a Lilly Billingham goal before halftime.

Just after the hour mark former Swansea player Rhianne Oakley put the Bluebirds in front. Long-serving Cardiff player Zoe Atkins added the third with ten minutes to play as Cardiff finish the season unbeaten. The Bluebirds can complete the double as they face Briton Ferry in Sunday’s Welsh Cup Final.

Cardiff’s good season also saw them win Adran Under 19’s Championship Final with a 2-0 win over Wrexham. Lauren Payne scoring both goals for the Bluebirds.

Perry Dobbins’ Photo Gallery from Cardiff City v Swansea City:

Cardiff Met 4-5 The New Saints

The New Saints finished off their incredible season with a 5-4 win away to Cardiff Met.

Chantelle Teare gave TNS the lead before a turnaround by Met as Emily Preece hit two to put Met in front. Teare put the Saints level just after halftime, but Robyn Pinder then made 3-2 to the Archers. Just a minute after taking the lead Teare got her hat trick to put the sides level again.

Ruby Colleton then put Met ahead again but again the lead didn’t last long. Emily Ridge put the Saints level at 4-4 before Teare scored her fourth of the game to grab the win for Saints.

Adran Premier Final Tables 2022/23:

Adran Leagues Play-off

Wrexham 1-0 Briton Ferry Llansawel

**Above:** Wrexham celebrate Rebecca Pritchard’s goal that sealed their promotion to the Adran Premier. **Photo:** FAW.

The Hollywood ride continues for Wrexham as they win the Adran League’s Promotion Play-Off Final. In front of a bumper 1500+ crowd at Latham Park, Newtown, Rebecca Pritchard’s goal was enough to send Wrexham to the Adran Premier next season.

With so much at stake in this game, the opening minutes were tense as the teams looked to gain a foothold. There was an early penalty shout for Briton Ferry when Laura-May Walkley was brought down in the box, but play was waved on.

Walkley then picked up the ball and went past three players before lifting a shot towards the far post, but it went just wide.

Megan Kearle saw her shot saved as Ferry looked to take the lead. Walkley the shot over and Lowri Baker hit a shot straight at Delyth Morgan in goal.

Wrexham best chance of the half fell to top scorer Rosie Hughes. Hughes was played in on goal and hit a shot, but Courtney Young pulled off a teriffic save to deny her.

In the second half Walkley put the ball into the centre of the box to Baker, but she put her effort over the bar. Lucy Powell sent a free kick into Chelsea Deacon who set up Walkley. Walkley hit a shot past Morgan, but it was cleared off the line.

Mollie Jones came off the bench for Briton Ferry and straight away she got in behind the defence. Her shot from the left was saved well by Morgan.

Wrexham came back and Rosie Hughes won the ball out on the left and whipped it into the box with pace. Rebecca Pritchard came sliding in to give Wrexham the lead.

Ferry pushed forward more to try and find an equaliser and Hughes almost made it two on the counter. Hitting an effort from distance she hit the bar. As the clock ran down, Ferry throw everything, they had Wrexham. Mollie Jones forced another fine save from Morgan and Powell hit the bar from a free kick.

Wrexham were able to hold on and win promotion to the Adran Premier. Briton Ferry will have to find a way to pick themselves up for next weekend’s Welsh Cup Final.

**Above:** Wrexham lift the Adran Play-Off Winners trophy after their win over Briton Ferry Llansawel. **Photo:** FAW.

Norfolk Weekly Wrap

Darrell Allen provides his weekly round-up of all the women’s football action in Norfolk, including the county’s seven-a-side scene (18/4/23).

Above: Alice Parker celebrates after scoring for Norwich City at Carrow Road in front of over 7,500 fans. Photo: Norwich City Women.

FA Women’s National League Division One South East

A big crowd of over 7,500 at Carrow Road saw an eight-goal thriller as Norwich City beat Impetus partner club Ashford Town (Middx) 5-3. Alice Parker scored twice with Natasha Snelling, Freya Simmonds, and Megan Todd getting the others. Anya Kinnane bagged a brace for Ashford Town with Aimee Durn adding one of her own.

Eastern Region Premier Division

King’s Lynn Town made it three consecutive wins with a 2-1 victory over Bowers and Pitsea. Jodie Hopkins and Tilly Sands scored for the Norfolk side with Millie Isherwood scoring for Bowers and Pitsea.

Wroxham picked up a very impressive 1-1 draw at Luton Town. Tsaianne Leander had scored for Luton before Hannah Waters secured Wroxham a point.

**Above:** Jodie Hopkins (centre) scored in King’s Lynn Town’s 2-1 win over Bowers and Pitsea. **Photo:** Richard Brown.

Eastern Region Division One North

Fakenham Town completed a very good day for the Norfolk sides with a 3-2 win over Wooten Blue Cross at Clipbush Park. Sophie hit the net twice and Vicky Lubbock got the other goal for the hosts with Giselle Randall and Haile Richards scoring for the visitors.

**Above:** Fakenham celebrate a goal in their 3-2 win over Wooten Blue Cross. **Photo:** James Barratt.

Suffolk Women’s Cup Semi-Final

Norfolk side Bungay Town reached the final of the Suffolk Women’s Cup with a 2-0 win over Brett Vale. The game, played on neutral ground at Walsham Le Willows, saw Zoe Cossey and Selina Rowland get the goals to send the Norfolk side to the final where they will face Tier Five Needham Market in May.

Norfolk Women and Girls’ League Division One

Thetford Town recorded, arguably, the surprise result of the season as they ended Mulbarton Belles’ 100% winning record at Mulberry Park. Thetford captain Melissa Boulton had given them the lead before Rebekah Lake equalised for the hosts but Thetford held on for the draw.

Sprowston continued their fine form with a stunning 3-2 win at the University of East Anglia. Mollie O’Callaghan scored twice with Lily Ann Winney getting the other for Sprowston. Cassandra Piejko and Ella Burnley got the goals for UEA.

**Above:** Can you see me? Melissa Boulton celebrates giving Thetford Town the lead at Mulbarton Belles. **Photo:** SG Photography

Norfolk Women and Girls’ League Division Two:

Aylsham continued their fine form to with a 3-0 win over Mulbarton Belles Development. Rhiannon Dack, Chelsea Garrett, and Hannah Claughton scored the goals.

King’s Lynn Soccer Club were 4-0 winners at FC Viking Valkyries. Jordan Turner (two), Kelsey Ramm, and Ellie Panks were the scorers.

North Walsham Town made it 11 games unbeaten with a 6-1 victory at Horsford. Kiera Brown got two with Rio Dobbie, Paige Samwell, Lucy Taylor, and Madison Welton getting adding one each. Megan Tooke was Horsford’s goalscorer.

Blofield United were 2-1 winners at Shrublands. Elsie Downer and Freya Stewart-Miles got the goals for Blofield with Lucy Collins scoring for Shrublands.

Norfolk Women and Girls’ League Sevens Division Two

Beccles Town were 4-0 winners over Aylsham thanks to a hat trick from Alesha Tuttle and one from Abbie Pogmore.