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.
Darrell Allen provides his weekly round-up of all the women’s football action in Norfolk, including the county’s seven-a-side scene (15/3/23).
Above: Katie Knights gets in an effort for Norwich City at Ashford Town (Middx). Photo: Norwich City Women.
FA Women’s National League Division One South East
A dramatic day in the shadows of Heathrow Airport as Norwich City drew 0-0 at Impetus partner club Ashford Town (Middx). The Tangerines missed a penalty with nineteen minutes left on the clock and so the points were shared at the Robert Parker Stadium.
Eastern Region Premier Division
Wroxham were beaten 5-1 at Haringey Borough. Shakira Kafero Roberts scored a hat-trick with Tori Campbell and Kylie Manktelow getting the others. Hayley Kindred replied for Wroxham.
Eastern Region Division One North
Fakenham Town lost away 4-0 at AFC Dunstable. Mollie Burgess, Mollie Knox, Jodie McClelland, and Gemma Whitchurch secured the points for the home side.
Above: University of East Anglia (navy blue) put in a fine performance but Ella Burnley (pictured) had a frustrating afternoon up top alone in their 1-0 defeat to Mulbarton Belles. Photo: Lillie Nott.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One
Mulbarton Belles were 1-0 winners away to the University of East Anglia. Charlotte Groves scored the only goal of the game as Mulbarton maintained their 100% winning league record.
Sprowston produced the result of the day in Norfolk with a stunning 7-2 win over Long Stratton. Mollie O’Callaghan scored a hat-trick, Anais Winney grabbed two with Kelsi Adams and Holly Whayman scoring the others. Megan Vincent and Luci Middleton were the Long Stratton scorers.
A Lauren Goulder hat-trick saw Bungay Town pick up a 5-1 win at Stalham. Zoe Cossey and Porsha Renwick were Bungay’s other scorers with Becky Houghton replying for the hosts.
Caister beat Beccles 3-1 in a bottom-of-the-table crunch game. Leah Brown scored all three in a result that all but secures their survival in Division One. Beccles had Elisha Bower to thank for their goal.
Above: Freya Standing (navy) received joint player of the match alongside stand in goalkeeper Freya Fuller in UEA’s 1-0 defeat to Mulbarton Belles. Photo: Lilie Nott
Norfolk Women And Girls League Division Two
Aylsham were the day’s biggest winners in Norfolk with a 14-0 win at Shrublands. Jordan Arnoup scored seven with Sophie Lubbock getting a hat-trick. The remaining four came from Vicki Lubbock, Flo Simpkin, Rhiannon Dack, and a solitary own goal.
Mulbarton Belles Development were also big winners as they saw off Bulldogs FC 10-0. Francesca Catchpole hit five with an own goal and strikes from Lucy Kean, Rosie McNarry, Nat Merry, and Masha Sosnina securing an emphatic win.
North Walsham Angels continued their rampant form as they made it six consecutive wins and five consecutive clean sheets with a 2-0 home win over Blofield United, goals from Kiera Brown and Sophie Hall saw the Angels log another impressive win.
Horsford and Freethorpe played out a 1-1 draw with Evie Tolson scoring for Horsford and Laura Parry scoring for Freethorpe.
Above: Jordan Arnoup (number 4) scored seven goals in Aylsham’s 14-0 win at Shrublands. Photo: Ben Cunningham
Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division One
Dussindale and HellesdonRovers were 2-0 winners over the University of East Anglia.
Rockland and Mulbarton Belles shared the points in a 1-1 draw with player/manager Joanne Hooper scoring the goal for Mulbarton.
Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division Two
Great Yarmouth Town were 2-1 winners at Aylsham through goals from Amy Barker and Lucie Morley. Jemma Bunting scored for Aylsham.
Taverham were 8-0 winners at Beccles thanks to a hat-trick from Katie Fray, a brace from Kate Morris, and other strikes from Keri Boorman, Kiera Braithwaite, and Rebecca Kirby. Red Rose were 2-1 winners at Waveney.
Matthew Appleby was at Bramall Lane to capture the best of the action from the Barclays Championship match between Sheffield United and Crystal Palace (15/3/23).
Above: Crystal Palace’s Polly Doran in possession at Sheffield United. Photo: Matthew Appleby.
Sheffield United 0-1 Crystal Palace
Palace are sixth (exactly midtable) in the Championship after Coral-Jade Haines hit the only goal at Bramall Lane on Sunday. The South London visitors had to ride the storm of home pressure in the opening 45 minutes, but after the break hit the winner when captain Haines scored from Annabel Blanchard’s pass. Sheffield United are one place above the relegation place, eight points clear of bottom side Coventry United.
Ryan Miller-Woods reports on Canberra United’s event announcing the retirement of Ellie Brush whilst Ben Gilby reports on Newcastle Jets’ presser with Lauren Allan and Cannon Clough reflecting on how the squad are working to end their losing streak. Plus Perth Glory boss Alex Epakis on righting thewrongs of last week’s result in Adelaide ahead of their mammoth journey to Wellington Phoenix (15/3/23).
Canberra legend Brush announces retirement
by Ryan Miller-Woods
Above: Ellie Brush speaking to the media today. Image: Canberra United.
Canberra United star Ellie Brush today announced that she will retire from the game at the end of the current season.
Speaking to the media today, the Canberra United foundation player admitted that the news becoming public was the first step in the realisation dawning that the end of her playing days are nigh.
“(It) kinda hadn’t kicked in until this morning and I saw it on the socials. I suppose it’s been my life for almost 20 years really since the start of Canberra Eclipse (in the Women’s National Soccer League) first of all and then into Canberra United in 2008 until now.
(This) might even be the 20th season of (playing) professional soccer so I haven’t really known much else and it’s a big decision but one definitely that I’ve thought of for a while now and that sits right with me.”
For Brush, this season has seen her career come full circle with her return to the capital city side, given this was the location of her entry into A-League Women football in its inaugural season back in 2008.
“That’s kind of the way I wanted it. I may have not even had this extra time and to come back, to finish in Canberra is kind of the way I wanted to do it. I had two years of bad knee injuries and that could have easily been it but I suppose that competitiveness and determination in me to want to try and get back to playing at the highest level weighed heavily on me, so I really wanted to give it another shot and to come full circle and my last season be in front of friends and family of where it all started is the way I wanted to do it.”
With her announcing her retirement meaning that Brush will be going out on her terms, the Canberra star was asked whether she was worried that at one point her body wouldn’t have allowed her to do that.
“Yeah, I suppose had come across my mind. I’d been relatively injury-free until I got taken out a few years ago (while) playing in the A-League. It felt really rough to think that would be how I sort of finished and I certainly wanted to kind of try and make it on my terms and put in the hard yards of rehab.
“Of course, that’s not easy because we’re not full-time athletes and I’ve got to work and live with another job alongside getting back to playing football and ultimately it’s just those sacrifices it’s just too hard to continue having to play for sub-par salary and also try and make ends meet and have another job. I kept playing cause of the love of the game and I’m glad now I’ve been able to go out certainly on my own terms.”
Above: Canberra United head coach Njegosh Popovich reflecting on Ellie Brush’s influence and Saturday’s huge game with Melbourne Victory. Image: Canberra United.
Also reflecting on the news today was Canberra United boss Njegosh Popovich who admitted that the news was the end of an era at the club. But hopefully, the start of a new one for Brush with the team.
“It is (bittersweet), she’s obviously been a foundation player and a player that’s been heavily involved in our club. We hope it’s not the end of Ellie Brush, we see this as a new beginning for her and maybe taking up some mentorship for us in seasons to come and also maybe some coaching roles.”
Popovich was also asked about what it has meant for himself and the playing group at Canberra to have had Brush back at the club this season given how the majority of her time in the W-League/A-League Women has been spent at Canberra.
“It has been great because I think that a lot of the players had lost their way in terms of understanding what Canberra United is and I think Ellie has been a very good mentor in that space for some of the younger players to say this is what we do and this who we are.”
In the midst of the announcement, Canberra’s head coach is well aware of the need for ultimate focus on Saturday’s match against Melbourne Victory which given both clubs’ aspirations to make the Finals and the battle for fourth position in the A-League Women’s table, is will be a crucial match.
“Melbourne Victory are a good side, they got a good result against Melbourne City which sets up a great show for us, the last home match for us. Hopefully not the last home match because I believe if we win every match from here to the end of the season, we’ll end up with a home final and finish third on the ladder, which will be sensational for Canberra.”
Newcastle Jets: The bye was a good thing, now we’re ready for winning
by Ben Gilby
Above: Lauren Allan – “We’re working hard as a team”. Image: Newcastle Jets.
Newcastle Jets pair Cannon Clough and Lauren Allan outlined to the media today how the club used last weekend’s bye to work hard on putting things right in order to give them the best possible chance to end the season with an improved run of form.
There certainly was no rest and relaxation on bye weekend, with Clough admitting: “We have been training all the way through,” and Allan revealing: “It wasn’t so much of a break as I had to work over the bye weekend but it was a bit easier on the body!”
With a fortnight since their last game, Jets have been analysing their recent run of defeats with new boss Gary van Egmond. “It’s (been about) how can we learn from (the losses), what mistakes did we make that are avoidable – and that was most of them – we need to play how we can play and limit mistakes,” said Clough.
That work ethic was reinforced by Allan: “We’re working hard and working as a team. We are trying to stick together, we’ve been conceding a lot of goals, so we’re looking at the technical side of things.”
The duo also emphasised the difference in approach under van Egmond. For Clough, it’s all about intensity. “He brings out a lot of fight and bite. That’s good, it means people want to be here and they want to play hard to get the results we haven’t been getting.”
Allan revealed the Jets’ head coach’s holistic approach to supporting the whole person within each player. “He likes you to work hard and is understanding about outside commitments. He does one on one sessions to work on individual things. It is a good transition. A lot of the girls are doing well under him and he knows what he is talking about. It is a fresh atmosphere.”
Epakis: Perth have had “deep conversations” and are going to Wellington ready for the challenge
by Ben Gilby
Above: Perth Glory boss Alex Epakis discusses preparations with the mammoth trip to Wellington Phoenix today. Image: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis has highlighted the “deep discussions” held with his squad to rectify what went wrong in last weekend’s defeat in Adelaide ahead of their 5,250 km trip to Wellington Phoenix for Saturday’s Distance Derby.
Looking back at the way the squad have addressed that loss in South Australia that put a major dent in the club’s Finals aspirations, Epakis told the media: “It was disappointing considering we were tracking well in recent weeks. The reality is the last performance wasn’t good enough.
“We’ve had pretty deep conversations as a group about what hasn’t been working and what we need to do to do better. It takes a good group to do that and address it on the training pitch.”
Whilst it was highlighted that Perth have a young group of players in the early stages of their A-League Women career and so may not have experienced the pressure of a Finals race before, the Glory boss reflected on the realities of the situation.
“We have top-level experience and we have players who are coming through that are extremely talented but are still learning what it is to win a game and deal with pressure moments on the field. We’re on that journey with those players. With each game and every week, the players improve their understanding of what our identity is and their own identity.
“I really enjoy that part of coaching. If we had a squad of ready-made players, it doesn’t make my life interesting. One of the beauties of coaching is going through that rollercoaster of experience with players.”
Perth have another big challenge ahead this weekend, one of the longest away trips in world sport – a flight to Wellington of at least six hours. Given the Phoenix’s excellent result against Sydney FC last weekend, it is not just the journey that Glory have to handle.
“Credit to them (Wellington), they have established themselves as a competitive team, despite being a new team with a really young squad. I really admire what they are doing as a team and as a coaching staff. They had a great result and performance against Sydney. It will certainly be a challenge. We are not in a position to slip up we need to go there and win.
“We are going into the unknown as a coaching group. We haven’t had this experience of playing in Wellington. It is extended travel. We are a professional outfit. We are not going there and taking it lightly.”
Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.
Jon Smalldon captures the best of the action from the tier six London & South-East Regional League Division One Southmatch at Pilot Field with an exclusive photo gallery from a match that saw leaders Hastings Town take on a Steyning Town side just above the drop zone (14/3/23).
Above: Steyning Town (stripes) in possession at Hastings United on Sunday. Photo: Jon Smalldon for Impetus.
Hastings United 6-1 Steyning Town
Hastings are two points clear of Ashford United at the summit after a comprehensive win over Steyning at the Pilot Field. Lauren Sharp’s 50th appearance was marked in style as hat-tricks from captain Sian Heather and Charlotte Gurr sealed the win. Loren Cardy scored for Steyning Town. Heather’s opening goal was her 50th for the club – a feat which was achieved on her birthday.
Each week during the home and away season, Impetus’ writing and photography team covering the competition will nominate a player, coach, and event of the week. We’ll keep a tally of the player and coach votes as the weeks go by, and just before Finals, will announce our winners for 2022/23 (14/3/23).
Player of the Week:
Above: Shea Connors, who picked up another vote in the Player of the Week category. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
BEN GILBY:Paige Zois. Playing out of position at right-back and doing a decent job. Playing further back than normal didn’t stop the youngster who can usually be found in midfield from taking her place outside the box to launch a stunning first-time shot at goal to add another stunner to her ever-growing collection.
KIERAN YAP:Dylan Holmes played almost the perfect midfield match. She was everywhere, doing everything for Adelaide United, and was unlucky not to have a goal in a dominant display against Perth Glory.
BEN CAREY:Shea Connors. She was absolutely sensational against Western United. Her pace, energy, and intent to win the ball and shoot were essential in getting the win for Brisbane and those vital three points to stay in the finals race. She also bested the two-time A-League player of the month, Hillary Beall, not once but twice.
Coach of the Week:
Above: Plenty for Natalie Lawrence to smile about this week – and another two votes in the Coach of the Week. Image: Wellington Phoenix.
BEN GILBY:Natalie Lawrence. It was a win that has been coming for several weeks now. Phoenix have been noticeably growing and threatening to pick up three points. The fact that they did it away to Sydney FC when the Harbour City side had just hit the top of the table just made it that bit sweeter for them. Lawrence has kept the belief and confidence coursing through her side’s veins when they have been bottom for so long. Famous last words, but I see several more wins to come between now and the end of the season, and other teams in the bottom three need to be looking over their shoulders. The Phoenix has risen.
KIERAN YAP:Natalie Lawrence. Sydney FC were vulnerable through injuries and suspensions and Wellington Phoenix took full advantage. Lawrence was brave in her selection, keeping Millie Clegg and Ava Pritchard in reserve, and brought them on as Sydney tried to regain the upper hand. It was a brilliant win by the underdogs.
BEN CAREY:Garrath McPherson. While Western United were not in top form against Brisbane Roar, they still came into the match second in the table, an intimidating opponent. McPherson inspired his team and encouraged them to play confident, attacking football and take it to their opponents. He also made some bold decisions in his starting 11, keeping a lot of quality and experience on the bench but that strategy paid off big time when players like Rasschaert, Kramer, and Palmer came on later to help close out the match.
Event of the Week:
Above: Wellington Phoenix celebrate their win at Sydney FC. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
BEN GILBY: Wellington Phoenix defeating Sydney FC away from home. Bottom defeating top. A superb achievement.
KIERAN YAP: Paige Zois’s wonder goal. This was a must-win game for Victory and from outside the box, the makeshift right back struck one of the goals of the season. It was as spectacular as it was deliberate.
BEN CAREY: Kate Taylor’s wonderful goal against Sydney FC. It was her first-ever goal in the A-League Women, and it was just a magnificent strike. The hard-working defender hit a superb volley off a defensive header. Taylor’s goal gave Wellington their first-ever win over Sydney FC.
Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.
Martin Townley and Perry Dobbins combine to deliver all the detail of the weekend’s games in Wales’ top leagues and cup action. Martin rounds up the action and Perry‘s photo gallery this week comes from the Adran Trophy Final(14/3/23).
Above: Cardiff Met celebrate with the Adran Trophy after their 3-1 win over Cardiff City. Photo: Perry Dobbins.
Cardiff Met lifted the Genero Adran Trophy at SDM Glass Stadium after a 3-1 win over Cardiff City in front of a crowd of 458.
The Archers inflicted City’s first defeat of the season as they lifted the trophy for the second year in a row.
Llandudno strengthened their third-place position in the Adran North with 3-0 win over Felinheli. Swansea Uni picked up a 3-0 win over Caldicot Town in the only game in the Adran South as Pontardawe v Briton Ferry fell victim to heavy rain in South Wales.
Adran Trophy Final
Cardiff Met 3-1 Cardiff City
Cardiff Met opened the scoring in the 15th minute thanks to a penalty from Erin Murray. Having made a good run into the box, Murray was pulled by City’s Ffion Price. Murray went to the right and keeper Ceryn Chamberlain looked to have saved it but the ball trickled through her grasp.
Met doubled their lead following a good ball into Ellie Preece from Robyn Pinder allowing Preece to run into the box going past Siobhan Walsh. Preece slid the ball across the box for Murray who tapped in from close range.
The Bluebirds were able to pull a goal back thanks to another penalty after a foul by Met keeper Amelia Forkings. City captain Siobhan Walsh smashed the ball into the top corner.
Despite pressure from City, it was the Archers who got the vital next goal. Erin Murray finding Preece in space on the edge of the box. Preece fired a first-time shot past the City keeper.
Cardiff City were unable to find two goals to level the game and Cardiff Met lift the Adran Trophy for the second season in a row.
Perry Dobbins’ photo gallery from the Adran Trophy Final:
Adran North
CPDM Y Felinheli 0-3 Llandudno
Jasmin Dutton hit a hat trick for a bare-bones Llandudno side as they picked up the win. Dutton got her first in the 32nd minute with an assist from Ffion Owen. Maddie Williams set up Dutton for her second in the 82nd minute before Owen and Dutton combined again in added time.
Adran South
Swansea University 3-0 Caldicot Town
Katie Horsburgh’s hat trick secured the three points for Swansea Uni as they beat Caldicot. Horsburgh struck twice in the first half before adding the third in the second as Swansea Uni picked up their third win of the season.
Central Wales FA Ladies Challenge Cup
from Abertsywuth Town Women Media Team
Above: Bethan Roberts in possession for Aberystwyth Town against Aberystwyth University. Photo: Steve Williams.
There’ll be one Aberystwyth Town Women team in the final of the Central Wales FA Ladies’ Challenge Cup – as the first team trounced Aberystwyth University 11-1.
But the development side couldn’t make it two, narrowly falling 1-0 to Llanfair United at Park Avenue.
The first team got things started in the lunchtime kick-off, firing in the goals at the University Sports Ground. Bethan ‘Cheeks’ Roberts was instrumental, running the game from the middle and also scoring a hat-trick, with Emily Thomas also grabbing three. Shauna Chambers followed up last weekend’s spectacular strike with two more, and Amy Jenkins was as solid as ever leading the line, scoring two. Rebecca Mathias was also on the scoresheet with a fine header from a corner.
The two blots on the day were the loss of the clean sheet plus a missed penalty from Tania Wylde – but all in all, it was a resounding victory for Gavin Allen’s side.
The development team fought hard to make it an all-Aber Town cup final, but went in one down at the break, to a Sarah Ellis strike, and couldn’t get the goal they so desperately needed.
The first team will now face Llanfair United in the final, with the details to be confirmed.
Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the 16th round of the 2022/23 D1 Arkema season. Plus, an exclusive photo gallery of Ellie Carpenter during Olympique Lyonnais versus Bordeaux game in the 15th round.
Above: Sara Däbritz after scoring Olympique Lyonnais’ first goal from Eugénie Le Sommer’s pass. Photo: Olympique Lyonnais.
National Team News
Corinne Diacre, head coach of the French national side, was fired the Thursday before this weekend of games. This followed the stand taken by Wendie Renard (Lyon), Marie-Antoinette Katoto (PSG), and Kadidiatou Diani (PSG). The new coach should be known next week. Gérard Prêcheur, current Paris Saint-Germain head coach (and formerly of Lyon), seems to be the leading candidate.
Round 16 Matches
Paris FC 2-0 Montpellier
With this win, Paris FC consolidated its third place in the standings and are now five points ahead of Fleury who lost to Lyon. However, the run for the third place is not finished as Paris FC must still play against their city rivals, Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon while Fleury has a potentially easier run in. Goals: Paris FC – Clara Matéo (1), Mathilde Bourdieu (33).
Fleury 1-2 Olympique Lyonnais
Lyon stopped Fleury’s run of eleven games undefeated and were close to keeping a fifth clean sheet in a row until a late, contentious penalty awarded for a somewhat dubious handball against Ellie Carpenter. Whilst the penalty was saved, Fleury netted the rebound. Carpenter continues her fine form and appears to be fully back from her injury and even seems better than before. Meanwhile, Selma Bacha gave notice that she is ready for Chelsea in the Champions League by delivering the decisive pass to set up Lindsey Horan to score. Goals: Lyon – Sara Däbritz (17), Lindsey Horan (81). Fleury – Léa Le Garrec (90+7).
Rodez 1-2 Le Havre
Le Havre look to have secured a mid-table finish in contrast to Rodez who have a fight to stay up. Again, the state of the pitch in Rodez was particularly poor. Goals: Le Havre – Silke Demeyere (23), Kelsey Araujo (83). Rodez – Solène Barbance (62).
Guingamp 2-0 Bordeaux
With their third win in a row, Guingamp continued to climb the table, in contrast to Bordeaux who have now lost four in a row and sit only one point ahead of Guingamp. Goals: Guingamp – Aïssata Traoré (29), Maiwen Renard (89).
Soyaux 1-1 Dijon
After five losses in a row, Soyaux earned a point but are still last in the table with only six points. It is looking less and less likely that they can save their place in D1 Arkema. Dijon, in 10th and with twelve points, are in a slightly better position and will still hope to play in D1 Arkema next year. Goals: Soyaux – Fadimatou Aretouyap (77). Dijon – Léa Declercq (43).
Paris Saint-Germain 4-0 Reims
It was a difficult day for Reims who were dominated the first half during which PSG scored twice. Reims tried to react at the beginning of the second half and in the first twenty minutes played higher on the field but could not score. PSG then retook control and added scored two more goals. The standout performance was Kadidiatou Diani who was involved on 3 goals (2 decisive passes and 1 goal). Goals: Paris Saint-Germain – Kadidiatou Diani (11), Ramona Bachmann (16), Amalie Vangsgaard (65), Sandy Baltimore (76).
EXCLUSIVE ELLIE CARPENTER PHOTO GALLERY FROM OLYMPIQUE LYONNAIS v BORDEAUX LAST WEEKEND:
by Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus
Jean-Pierre Thiesset’s EXCLUSIVE photos from Olympique Lyonnais training on 13th March 2023:
impetusfootball.org 