A-League Women Media Conferences

24/2/23

CANBERRA UNITED:

by Ben Gilby

Above: Canberra United’s Grace Taranto speaking to the media today. Image: Canberra United.

Canberra United pair Grace Taranto and Michelle Heyman both identified to the media today how important it is for the capital city side to build on their superb win over Sydney FC prior to the international break when they take on Western Sydney Wanderers tomorrow.

With Canberra having responded to two 5-0 defeats in a row so positively, Taranto highlighted how they need to maintain that run after a fortnight without a match.

“The week off was really beneficial for us, we’re really refreshed and excited for the big game this weekend. We’re all feeling super motivated to go out on the park after the win against Sydney (last time out)…and show that we deserved the win. We worked really hard for it, but we’re now focused on this weekend, it’s going to be a big one.

“We want to make sure we prove we’re worth being up there and worth a place in the top four. Western Sydney are having a good season and they are right up there as well.”

Whilst Canberra United have had players away on international duty, Heyman outlined how those who have remained behind have benefitted from targeted coaching dedicated at individuals.

“We’ve been able to work on things we’ve needed to individually. We’re going out this weekend to prove the point. We beat Sydney, now facing Wanderers, we need to take the three points.”

Above: Michelle Heyman – this weekend’s Pride Round is the culmination of many years of her attempting to persuade the league of the importance of such an event. Image: Canberra United.

Heyman has been a leading advocate of the introduction of a Pride Round for a long time, and the A-League Women’s all-time leading goalscorer underlined the importance of this weekend.

“It’s a nice place for us to be who we are and proud of the community that we represent and be the voice and play the game we love and feel comfortable.

“It’s nice for football to step up and for us to have Pride Round and Pride Cup supporting us and promote it in the right way. For myself personally, I’ve been pushing for it for a long time. Back in the day myself and Heather Reid pushed every year to represent the community we belong to. Finally, we’ve got here to be able to have the rainbow numbers on the back of my jersey, and to have my name in rainbow colours is something I’ve always wanted.”

“(Years ago), there was no response (from the league hierarchy). We got rainbow socks one round. That was the most we got. We wanted to have rainbow jerseys, but that kept getting stood down. For this round to go ahead, Heather Reid is the pioneer of this. For me to put on my jersey (on Saturday), it will be for her and everything that she has done for this club.”

Heyman spoke personally about the impact she has had as a key role model in the LGBTQIA+ community and how Pride Round can have such an impact.

“I’ve had personal experience of parents coming up to me after games and saying ‘if it wasn’t for you being out and proud, I wouldn’t be able to understand my child.’ For myself, it’s so important for parents to have other people to look upon for advice. We’re role models and we’re doing the best we can.”

Michelle Heyman, Canberra United.

“The new generation of kids coming through are more comfortable with how they are. The older generation still have that stigma behind all of it. For us, it’s about being as strong and positive as we can in the community. A safe place is a better place for all of us and you can be a better footballer within your own skin.”

“It’s really important not to let this drop. It has to be year in, year out from now on.”

Taranto agreed, saying: “Pride Round is such an important event in soccer and the sporting world in general. It needs to be a place where everyone can be happy and no one imposes on that. Identity is something to be proud of and celebrated.”

NEWCASTLE JETS:

Above: Emily Roach in action for Canberra United this season. Photo: Newcastle Herald.

Newcastle Jets today announced the signings of midfielder Emily Roach and striker Renée Pountney for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.

Roach, who plays in central midfield joins the Jets from Canberra United where she has made two appearances for the club this season.

20-year-old Roach is originally from Nambour, Queensland is eager to link up with her new squad for the rest of the current campaign.

“I’m excited to get to work here in Newcastle and further develop my game under Gary van Egmond. I’m looking forward to running out at No. 2 Sportsground with my new teammates and soak up the great atmosphere that the fans create at this ground.”

22-year-old Pountney has previously played for the Jets, making her debut in 2018. She has scored one goal in nine games which was a strike against Adelaide United in 2020. Pountney played her youth football coming through the Emerging Jets program.

Above: Renée Pountney pictured during her previous spell with Newcastle Jets. Photo: Newcastle Herald.

The striker returns to the club after playing for Creighton University in the United States and spoke of her joy at being back at the club.

“I’m excited to be back here in Newcastle and I can’t wait to run out with the team at No. 2 Sportsground. This is home for me and I’m excited to wear the Jets badge again.”

A-League Women’s Head Coach Gary van Egmond was pleased to strengthen his squad ahead of the run in, as the Jets aim to climb away from the bottom reaches of the table.

“We’re happy to bring in a player of Renée’s quality to the side for the rest of the campaign. Renée has matured as a player since her previous stint at the Jets and we’re excited to see her link up with the team and contribute for the remainder of the season.

“Emily is a highly talented young midfielder who we believe will add a lot of quality to our squad. We are confident we can help further develop her game and we look forward to seeing her thrive at the club.”

Above: Cass Davis speaks to the media ahead of Newcastle Jets’ clash with Western United this weekend. Image: Newcastle Jets.

Newcastle Jets duo Cass Davis and Georgie Worth spoke to the media this week ahead of their rematch with Western United, and revealed how things have been since the departure of head coach Ash Wilson and attacker Sarah Griffiths, writes Ben Gilby.

Speaking first, Davis said: “Changes happen in football, we’ve just got to move on. We’ve just got to stay positive and focus on what is ahead and that is winning games. Losing Sarah (Griffith) too was a pretty big loss.”

The Jets reacted well initially with a superb win on the road to league leaders Western United before having to take the trip immediately across to Western Australia to take on Perth Glory in a match that didn’t end quite so positively for Newcastle.

“The win was nice. It was a massive week for us, travelling to Ballarat and then to Perth. We travelled and were away for six nights. It was a big high to beat Western United, but then we had our heads down after losing to Perth. Hopefully, we can take all the positives into this weekend.”

“It was very hard. We had a few girls have to work while they were in the hotel between training and recovery. It shouldn’t be this way, but hopefully, generations in the future won’t have this.”

Cass Davis on the reality of Newcastle Jets spending six nights away with two away games in quick succession.

Davis has a lot of respect for interim boss Gary van Egmond and believes that his ethos of hard work will reap rewards: “Gary is a tough one. We’ve been training a lot – double sessions, gym. It’s all for the benefit of us. If we train at a high intensity it should be easier in matches. It really helped against Western united. you could hear him from the sidelines the whole time. He is driving us.”

After already defeating Western United on the road recently, the Jets star identified: “They are a tough team and at the top of the ladder for a reason. We need to take the positives from the way we played them. If we can go out and execute the same game plan. The girls are pumped and ready to go.

“We want consistency and results. Being second from bottom doesn’t show what we’re capable of. We’ve leaked a lot of goals this season. There is a real big focus on defence.”

Above: Newcastle Jets goalkeeper Georgie Worth was in a positive mood ahead of this weekend’s game with Western United. Image: Newcastle Jets.

Jets goalkeeper Georgie Worth told the media how positive the time to focus on preparations and training during the international break has boosted the squad ahead of their return to A-League Women action this weekend.

“With that week we had (back-to-back matches away to Western United and Perth Glory within such a short turnaround), we didn’t really have much time for training, so it’s been good to get back on the training pitch.

“It was a big week, lots of travel, lots of games. We learned a lot, so it’s nice to be back in Newcastle. With the Perth loss (4-0), it would be easy to blame the travel, but at the end of the day, the performance wasn’t good, enough. We didn’t show up as well as we could have. It was individual performances, tactics…”

However, that period of intense travel started so positively with the Jets defeating league leaders Western United in Ballarat.

“That was a big result,” Worth admitted, “We needed it for confidence. It showed we’re a quality team and can compete against the best teams. A win and a clean sheet was massive.”

Playing the same side in such close proximity always throws up specific challenges, but the Newcastle goalkeeper believes past experience puts her side in a great position. “They (Western United) will want to win to demonstrate why they are top, but we know what we can do to beat them.”

WELLINGTON PHOENIX:

by Denise Duffy and Ben Gilby

Above: Ava Pritchard reflecting on preparations for Sunday’s game with Sydney in Auckland. Image: Wellington Phoenix.

Wellington Phoenix spent the two-week international window honing their technical skills and getting ready for their upcoming match against Sydney FC. They are making their debut at football-friendly North Harbour Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand, 656km from their home in Wellington, writes Denise Duffy.

The venue is primed for women’s football as was the site of the Women’s World Cup’s play off tournament just a few days ago. It was also the place of the second Football Ferns match versus Argentina just a few days ago.

Forward Ava Pritchard spoke to the media this week ahead of the game, and emphasized just how the number of Wellington players in the national team set-up is a big benefit: “We’ve got, I don’t know, about six or seven Phoenix girls in the national team now. So it’s only inspiration for us to keep working so we can just make that number even bigger.”

And on the trip North, Pritchard revealed how she is: “Buzzing to go to Auckland. I feel like that its got such a good footballing environment up there and lots of little girls who just love playing football. It’s going to be such a good game. Playing at North Harbour, it’s such a nice stadium. Hopefully, we’ll fill it out a bit.”

Sydney FC will be a formidable opponent. They are sitting currently third in the table just one point behind Melbourne City and two points ahead of Melbourne Victory. The Phoenix though have proven that they can be a challenge to any team on any day.

“I think we can take points from every team when we turn up and play our football, we’re a very dangerous team.”

Above: Chloe Knott speaking to the media this week. Image: Wellington Phoenix.

Also speaking to the media ahead of the Nix’s game with Sydney FC was Chloe Knott, writes Ben Gilby, and she began by highlighting how preparations have gone for Sunday’s match with few players remaining at the club during the international break.

“We’ve had some really good sessions and we had a day with the academy girls where they came in and we played a practice match against them. It’s been a chance to work on fitness and on individual technical stuff…we love playing matches, so it’s been catch-22, it was good to have a break, but we’re keen to get back into matches.”

With Wellington captain Lily Alfeld ruled out so far this season due to injury, it has led to increased leadership responsibilities for Knott, and the Nix star spoke candidly about the reality of the role for her.

“It’s tougher on the weeks where you are losing as you have to try and lift people, but Lily (Alfeld) is great in the background and Kate (Taylor) is really stepping up as well. It’s like a shared job. I tend to do what I normally do. I do feel I’ve learned to be more resilient and lift the team when we’ve been losing. Lily is there watching and in training too, she’s always there supporting and watching.

“I want to do whatever I can to help the team. I feel that changes every week depending on who we are playing. Adjusting my game, whether that’s playing as a six or more further forward.”

Kick-off locally is Sunday, February 26th, at 1pm. Tickets for adults are $16, with a dollar from each ticket going to the Cyclone Relief Fund. There are also family tickets for $40 dollars, which includes two adults and two children.

WESTERN UNITED:

by Ben Gilby

Above: Western United boss Mark Torcaso talking ahead of this weekend’s trip to Newcastle Jets. Image: Western United.

Western United head coach Mark Torcaso was very clear in his discussion with the media ahead of this weekend’s rematch with Newcastle Jets: “We want to get back the three points they took off us last time. That’s the plan.”

When the two sides last met just prior to the international break, it was the Jets who raised eyebrows with a 2-0 win over United in Ballarat. Torcaso believes this time will be different.

“That was three points we lost and we just want to get things right. If we play the way we know we can, we know we can win. If we don’t and play like last time, Newcastle are a good side and they are to be respected. We want to at least get something back from this game after the last result, and to regain some momentum.

“Being in Newcastle and having the Matildas play there (this week) should create even more hype, so hopefully its exciting and more people will come out (to watch). It will be a tough game. They will come at us, and we just need to be ready for it, and I think we will this weekend.”

Torcaso’s side go into the game boosted by the news that star striker Hannah Keane has signed a new deal at the club to return for the 2023/24 season. The Western United boss is understandably delighted.

“Hannah was very important as a signing, so for her to commit to us for another season is excellent and just shows the great work we are doing as a club in the female space. To have a player like Hannah want to reconnect to us is a real credit to the club. She just wants to focus on us winning the league, and her winning the Golden Boot.”

Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.

Late double the key as Dons see off battling Ashford

AFC Wimbledon 3-0 Ashford Town (Middx)

by George Jones – AFC Wimbledon (24/2/23).

Above: AFC Wimbledon hot shot Ashlee Hicks is congratulated after scoring for AFC Wimbledon against Ashford Town (Middx). Photo: Emily Topping.

AFC Wimbledon once again left it late to seal victory at home to Ashford Town (Middx) on Wednesday night at Carshalton in the tier four FA Women’s National League Division One South-East.

Much like the reverse fixture, facing newcomers Ashford Town proved to be a tough test. And in similar fashion to the game earlier in this season, it was a late onslaught of goals that gave the Dons all three points.

There was an added edge to the fixture, as the Capital Cup semi-final draw (to be played at Carshalton on 19th March) will see the two sides pairing up once more.

The Dons dominated possession from the start, but failed to create any clear-cut chances. As Wimbledon threatened the Ashford back line, the offside flag shot up. The first half left Wimbledon increasingly frustrated, and with just five minutes remaining before half-time, Becki Bath was sin binned.

The second-half started just as the first-half had ended, with the Dons dominating the play, but lacking the clinical edge. However, with 50 minutes on the clock Ashlee Hincks stepped up and produced a moment of brilliance. As Ashford tried to clear a ball into the box from Bath, Hincks volleyed a shot into the top right corner to give the Dons a much deserved lead.

Despite the goal, the game continued in the same fashion. Wimbledon continued to dominate possession, with the visitors showing signs of threatening on the counter-attack. With five minutes left of the game, any nerves were put to ease. Ellie Dorey doubled the lead with a looping header after getting on the end of a cross from captain Hannah Billingham.

In the dying seconds of injury-time Hincks completed the scoring from the penalty spot after being brought down.

Following the victory, Rosie Russell said: “We know what we need to do, we are good when we move the ball and we just need to keep building on that and the results follow.”

Manager Kevin Foster added: “It was a really good win, the scoreline doesn’t reflect the true meaning of the game because Ashford were much improved, and their shape was excellent. It was really difficult for us to break it down. Ultimately, it was a couple of moments of quality from our forward line that won us the game.”

There is no respite for AFC Wimbledon as they travel to title rivals Hashtag on Sunday. This is followed by a return to Plough Lane with Chesham United visiting on Sunday 5th March. Tickets are available for the Chesham United match via: https://tinyurl.com/39krmk5f

Teams: AFC WIMBLEDON: Baker, Russell, Brooks, Highman, Billingham, Taylor (Sampson), Stow (Ali), Donovan, Plewa, Hincks, Bath (Dorey).

Scorers: Hincks 51′, 90+4′ (pen). Dorey 85′.

ASHFORD TOWN (MIDDX): Schults, Duncan, Kinnane, Neufville, Durn, Down, Johnson, Wynne, Cheatley, O’Callaghan, Clarabut. Substitutes: Currivan, Constantine, Luscombe, Deluca.

Attendance: 75.

Alex Epakis: Perth are reaping the rewards for hard work

Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis spoke exclusively to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about how his team has found their best form after a tough run of results and losing a key striker to season-ending injury for the third successive campaign (23/2/23).

Above: Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis. Image: Perth Glory.

Perth Glory are currently in fine form in the A-League Women on a four-match unbeaten run, after taking longer than expected to hit winning ways this season.

After narrowly missing out on Finals football last time round, the Western Australian side started the campaign slowly, but head coach Alex Epakis believes the current positive run is a result of hard work on the training pitch.

“We are in a good run of form currently and I am pleased with the individual and team performances. We have worked very hard in training and that focused work and effort is now translating to more dominant performances and positive results.”

Glory have also had to overcome losing a key striker to a season-ending injury for the third successive season. After losing Gemma Craine in the previous two campaigns, this year’s top scorer Rylee Baisden suffered a heartbreaking ACL injury at AAMI Park. The impact was huge on the club – and not just due to the American’s impact on the pitch

Above: Rylee Baisden in action for Perth Glory against Canberra United earlier this season. Photo: Tom McCarthy.

“Losing Rylee was a dent,” the Perth boss explained. “She is a vibrant character with experience and a lot of quality on and off the field. She was in great attacking form prior to her injury and was a focal point to our attack.

“The injury was devastating for her on a personal level and we have done absolutely everything to assist and support her during the early stages of her rehab. Currently, she is tracking well.

“Once the injury occurred, I knew someone would step up; we are fortunate that all the attacking players have found another gear; Cyera (Hintzen), Susan (Phonsongkham), Sofia (Sakalis), Alana (Jancevski), Hannah (Blake), and Hana (Lowry). The team as a whole is also attacking a lot more fluidly and we are finding a nice sweet spot currently in creating and converting chances. 

“Rylee is still in Australia and her recovery is positive and well underway, she is a very strong and resilient character and we will continue to support her through this process.”

Baisden’s loss, plus the team’s challenging start to the campaign result-wise left Perth’s season at a crossroads. Yet, as has happened so often with the Western Australian side over the past couple of years, when things look to be at their most challenging, the team produce their best. It’s something that Epakis puts down to his leadership group.

Above: Locally born youngster Bella Wallhead is back in the Perth Glory team this season after a season on the sidelines. Photo: Tom McCarthy.

“The team has fantastic resilience. The leadership group; Tash (Rigby), Kim (Carroll) as well as other leaders, have played a big part in ensuring that we have a positive mindset and embrace the challenges. Doing things the difficult way is in our nature, we love it. The team spirit is very high and we are very together as a group.” 

After spending last season on the sidelines, locally produced defender Bella Wallhead, who turned 20 last week, has come back into the squad for this campaign, something that the Perth boss believes is a reward for her continuing growth as a player.

“Bella had a good start to the season off the back of a strong pre-season. She is progressing well and developing elements of her game whilst learning from the experienced defenders in the squad. She is working hard to regain her spot.”

In terms of other young Western Australians at the club, including Tijan McKenna, recently called up to the Young Matildas squad, the Perth boss said: “The entire squad understands that internal competition is a sign of a healthy and progressive team. They embrace that and it facilitates players’ growth and team success.”

Whilst Perth’s current unbeaten run has made Finals football a possibility, the team face a major hurdle to overcome in the process. Their scheduled away game at Sydney FC in January was postponed due to the Harbour City club being unable to find a suitable venue to play the match. The APL have now rescheduled the match to the end of March – meaning Perth face a run in of three matches in three different states in six games. Glory face over 4,000 miles of travelling and no time for recovery between matches.

Above: Perth Glory captain Tash Rigby is aiming to lead her team towards Finals football. Photo: Tom McCarthy.

Epakis revealed that the APL have never replied to an email he sent them voicing his concerns over the decision and its impact on his team.

“I am unsure the club received further correspondence either. It doesn’t look great in my opinion but nonetheless, we are focused on the task at hand, and we won’t get dragged into feeling sorry for ourselves. A lot more could be said, but I’ll leave that to the public and powerbrokers.”

Alex Epakis, Perth Glory head coach on the APL’s decision to reschedule his team’s trip to Sydney FC.

As Perth head towards the climax of Epakis’ third season at the helm, Epakis highlighted what he continues to learn from his tenure in the West.

“Each season has been an unbelievable experience and journey. Different hurdles and challenges always present themselves, from COVID, relocations, injuries, and results. The season moves very quickly and different things come up that myself, the staff, and team have to navigate through – it is one of the wonders of this job.

“We are now in a very cohesive place as a squad, I understand the players well and they understand myself and the standards and environment we have. Our team identity is as strong as it has ever been and it is showing in our training and performances.”

Above: The return of local-born defender Izzy Foletta has had a major boost on Perth Glory’s progress this season. Photo: Tom McCarthy.

With Perth in a battle with a number of clubs for what could potentially be one available spot in the Finals, the Glory head coach is clear about what he needs to see from his team over the remaining weeks of the season.

“We have to keep focused on the task at hand each week and prepare well at training to give us the best chance of winning. We are certainly capable of anything, it is my job to harness that belief and continue to support the players are much as possible over the run in home.”

Epakis sees a bright future for the Glory, and believes that things are moving in the right direction to ensure that the club continue to progress positively over the long term.

“The team and club are moving in a positive direction on and off the field. We are strategic with the approach and maintaining stability is an important pillar for the club. Positive discussions relating to the future are always occurring.”

Artwork: Charlotte Stacey, founder of On Her Side.

Matildas can change the momentum of a match & strike when they have it

By Kieran Yap (23/2/23)

Above: The belief is strong and the trust is there in the Matildas squad. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

The Matildas have won all three games in the latest international window. They scored 10 goals, while conceding just two. But not everything went exactly to plan, and this might be the most promising thing to come from the Cup of Nations.

The opponents were chosen not just with availability in mind, and definitely not with guaranteed wins as a consideration. Jamaica will be at the World Cup, Czechia have an enviable record against top teams and Spain will be expecting to contend for the trophy.

These teams different in playing styles and posed various challenges for Australia. Against each team, The Matildas had to find a different way to win.

Long-term fans of The Matildas will know that this generation has always been capable of beating anybody. But they tended to feel either ‘on’ or not. There were sometimes miraculous exceptions, but in games like the 2018 Asian Cup semi-final and final, it was pretty clear from the kickoff that the games would be difficult. Sometimes this was due to the opposition, but it was something that could last 90 minutes or beyond.

In the last seven games, The Matildas have shown they can switch formations, personnel, and more importantly gears to change the momentum of a match, then strike when they have it.

Above: Alex Chidiac (right) in action against Jamaica yesterday. The midfielder continues to impress in the green and gold. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

In the opening match, The Matildas prepared to face a team that got numbers behind the ball. Czechia had held the US scoreless and looked organised, disciplined, and physical. It took Australia until the second half to break them down, but they remained patient, did not get frustrated or lose confidence, and ended up with the 4-0 win.

Crucial to that match was early substitutions, and positional changes. Kyra Cooney-Cross pushed higher up the pitch and Alex Chidiac was introduced with plenty of time left to play.

The two former Melbourne Victory teammates were instrumental in the win. Cooney-Cross was sensational in the opening match, and her partnership with the dominant Katrina Gorry has been a big reason for the Matildas’ upturn in form. When she receives the ball, her first instinct is to accelerate into space that she instinctively knows is there. She creates time for herself, sometimes just extra seconds to deliver long passes or knit in shorter distances.

Chidiac is the definition of a game changer. She wants to impact games, knows she has the ability to panic defenders, and accepts the responsibility that comes with her undeniable talent.

Against Czechia, she created Sam Kerr’s goal after picking up the ball in the middle, linking wider with Charli Grant then winning a 50-50 ball after it bounced free.

In the final match against Jamaica, she changed the momentum. Subbed on at halftime, Chidiac was the dominant force of the second half. Gorry’s goal had given Australia the advantage, but Chidiac kept Jamaica on the back foot at every opportunity.

Her goal was footballing perfection. The ball fell to her in the penalty box, and instead of blasting at goal, she shifted her body to take send two defenders sprawling and make certain of it in ridiculous style.

Australia now can push through a frustrating period of a match, play without the ball, and score goals regardless.

In the second match against Spain, Australia were forced to defend for longer stretches of the match but looked no less convincing. The 3-0 scoreline at halftime was slightly fortuitous, but they took their chances when they came, and could have had more.

Bigger tests await, but Tony Gustavsson’s Matildas should fear nobody right now. They visibly have confidence in themselves, the game plan, and each other. This had not come from big wins against lowly ranked, or hand-picked opponents, but it has been done the hard way, through painstaking trials and repeated baptisms of fire.

There is still room for improvement, there always will be. But if the wins against Denmark and Sweden showed what The Matildas best could look like, The Cup of Nations has proven it was no fluke.

Above: The Matildas celebrate their Cup of Nations success. They have now won seven matches in a row, including victories over Spain, Sweden, and Denmark. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Dominant England retain Arnold Clark Cup

England 6-1 Belgium

by Johnathan Stack at Ashton Gate for Impetus (23/2/23).

Above: England lift the Arnold Clark at Bristol City FC last night after retaining the trophy they won last year. Photo: Lionesses.

The Lionesses put out a message last night ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup as they comprehensively defeated Belgium to retain the Arnold Clark Cup.

It was an almost packed house at Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol, for the finale as England took on Belgium in a winner takes all decider for the trophy.

After five matches and three doubleheaders at different venues, it all came down to this the sixth and final game of the tournament.

So far so good for both teams as they have had perfect records in the Arnold Clark Cup with England beating Korea Republic 4-0 on matchday one in Milton Keynes and beating Italy 2-1 in Coventry, whereas Belgium has sat on level points with England having beat Italy and Korea Republic 2-1 in both the previous two matches.

England head coach Sarina Wiegman named a full-strength team for this game, which could well prove to be close to her starting eleven for the opening World Cup group game against Haiti.

The Lionesses hit the ground running early on and were all over Belgium from the get-go, with Georgia Stanway going wide and Lauren James firing just over in the opening ten minutes of the game.

Above: There was plenty to celebrate for England last night. Photo Lionesses.

The deadlock was broken in the 12th minute as James received the ball on the right and produced a dazzling run down the wing sending a deflected cross into the box with Chloe Kelly in the right place at the right time to bundle the ball into the back of the net.

Millie Bright nearly went close to doubling the lead with a header from an Alex Greenwood corner as the Lionesses kept up the relentless pressure from the start. Bright’s Chelsea teammate James went close for a second time as she was found on the edge of the area as she got the ball out of her feet, she fired just over again.

England did double the lead just before half-time as skipper Leah Williamson headed home from Lucy Bronze’s cross on the left to make the scoreline reflect the hosts’ domination that bit more.

At the start of the second half, it was more of the same as Ella Toone fired just over minutes after the restart, but then Kelly bagged her second of the game as Toone had a shot that was saved by Belgian keeper Nicky Evrard but spilled into the path of the Manchester City attacker who pounced onto the rebound and stuck it into an empty net.

The Lionesses’ bombardment continue as Alessia Russo almost made it 4-0, but was denied by Evrard sprawling at her near post to make a save.

Kelly nearly had a hat trick as she bamboozled the Belgian defence with a mazy run down the right, she then cut inside and tried to curl it into the top corner of the goal, but it went over the bar.

It was non-stop pressure, as England had Belgium penned into their half as Lucy Bronze’s cross picked out Russo with a great cross but unfortunately her gentle header went just wide.

Above: England dominated the Arnold Clark Cup silverware presentation as Chloe Kelly (left) won the tournament’s golden boot, and Lauren James won the player of the tournament trophy. Photo: Lionesses.

England had two further real chances. First through Kelly was found out on the wing and her cross-come shot grazed the top of the crossbar. Then, Stanway broke through as part of a four-on-two, but decided to go alone, and her deflected shot nearly found a way past Evrard couldn’t quite make the back of the net.

Finally, the fourth goal came as Julie Biesmans put the ball into her own net, as she tried to deal with Stanway’s cross. There was reward for Lucy Bronze as Lauren Hemp fed Rachel Daly who them knocked it down into the path of the Lionesses centurion to fire home for 5-0.

Belgium grabbed a superb consolation goal when substitute Elena Dhont picked the ball on the right, cut in on the edge of the box, and whipped a shot into the far top corner of Mary Earps’ goal.

England were not done though as captain Leah Williamson scored her second goal of the night, side footing the ball into an almost empty net as Stanway’s initial shot was blocked and with Evrard already in motion, all the Lionesses captain had to do was aim her shot into the unguarded half of the goal to make it six.

England have looked very strong over these three games. Lauren James was rightly named player of the tournament. Head coach Sarina Wiegman did get to experiment in these three matches ahead of the World Cup with Rachel Daly staking a claim to go head-to-head with Alessia Russo for the number nine role. Another important fact ahead of the summer is the Lionesses are now 29 games unbeaten with 25 wins and four draws since the Dutchwoman’s first game back in September 2021.

England have an array of talent in multiple positions on the pitch, there is obviously going to be a real selection headache for Wiegman ahead of the World Cup. The Lionesses boss spoke to the media about this selection dilemma saying: “I don’t have to make the decisions now. In some positions, pretty much if those players stay performing as they do, the chance of being picked for the first XI is very high.

“With some positions, I really don’t know yet and I don’t have to know. I have to see them over the next month at their club and then we come back in camp again. There’s a lot of competition going on. It’s pretty hard for us to make decisions. I’m not surprised, but it’s just confirmed that the competition is going on.”

There are five months until the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Preparations continue for the Lionesses in April as they have the Finalissima at Wembley on 6th April against Brazil followed by taking on World Cup joint hosts the Matildas’, who have won their last seven matches in a row at Brentford FC on 11th April.

Teams: ENGLAND: Earps, Bronze, Greenwood, Walsh, Bright, Williamson, Kelly, Stanway, Russo, Toone, James. Substitutes: Roebuck, MacIver, Hemp, Daly, Park, Carter, Salmon, Zelem, Charles, Robinson, Wubben-Moy, Le Tissier, Nobbs, Coombs.

Scorers: Kelly 12’, 50’. Williamson 43’, 90+3. Biesmans (OG) 78’, Bronze 89′.

BELGIUM: Evrard, Wijnants, De Caigny, Wullaert (c), Vanhaevermaet, Cayman, Vangheluwe, Detruyer, Janssens, Biesmans, Missipo. Substitutes: Lemy, Bastiaen, Philtjens, Van Kerkhoven, Colson, Eurlings, Dhont, Deloose, Merrsman, Fon, Ampoorter.

Australia v Jamaica Photo Gallery

Kris Goman‘s EXCLUSIVE photos from today’s Cup of Nations match between Australia and Jamaica in Newcastle, New South Wales, including the trophy presentations post-match for the Matildas as tournament winners, and Mackenzie Arnold as player of the tournament (22/2/23).

Above: The Matildas lift the Cup of Nations after winning all three matches, scoring 10 goals in the process. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Australia 3-0 Jamaica

So much Pride in defeat

Pride Park 2-2 University of Derby

University of Derby win 3-2 on penalties

Above: Steph Eadon breaks through for Pride Park earlier this season. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

by ‘Doug Outt’ (22/2/23)

Pride Park battled bravely with only ten players and later went down to eight for their Derbyshire County FA Women’s Plate quarter-final tie and took a 2-0 lead before the University of Derby (UOD) hit back in the dying minutes to equalise and to win on penalties.

The scheduling of the game could certainly have been more female-friendly to coin The FA’s own term; rather than pick (at relatively short notice) the first weekend of the schools’ half term – and with seven out with medium to long term injuries it left Pride extremely depleted. The scheduling faux pas is completed with the semi-finals scheduled to be played on Mother’s Day – a blank weekend in the County League. 

To compound matters, the appointed match Official was forced to withdraw with an injury on the morning of the game, and midfielder Otty Baker pulled up with a groin strain in the warm-up. Ideally, she wouldn’t have played but, knowing Pride were already up against it, insisted on starting. 

Despite all that, Pride started the game well and had the best of the first half. Steph Eadon had the ball in the net after a mazy dribble and shot on 11 minutes, but the goal was ruled out for an offside flag which, being extremely generous, was a tight call. 

Eadon then saw her controlled free kick from the angle of the penalty box come back off the crossbar on 15 minutes and was a thorn in the side of the University defence, providing Pride with a target, holding the ball up, and combining with the players around her. It was a formula that worked well and, despite the numerical disadvantage, Pride were creating opportunities.

Above: Rachel Weaver (left) who scored Pride Park’s opening goal against the University of Derby. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

A prime example of this was after a Tash Allderidge corner, from which Eadon laid the ball back for Rachel Weaver to hit a right-footed shot through the crowd and beyond the keeper from the edge of the penalty area to give Pride the lead after 23 minutes.

The lead was extended just after the half-hour when Allderidge scored direct from a corner kick. Pride were unfortunate not to add to their score, Eadon hitting the crossbar again with a powerful controlled drive, stung the ‚keeper’s hands with another and she went close with several more efforts, as did Allderidge and Eliot Sayavong. 

It was inevitable that with a numerical advantage, UOD would find openings, but Jade Howell in the Pride goal was only called into action twice – tipping a shot over the crossbar after a corner on 20 minutes, and comfortably collecting a shot at the near post as the half ended.

With Otty Baker struggling for mobility, she swapped positions with Eadon, enabling Baker to continue to half-time but she was unable to resume for the second half. Nevertheless, Pride were in control at half-time.

By contrast, the cavalry arrived for University of Derby in the form of two late arrivals as additional substitutes for the start of the second half. There was, inevitably, a less adventurous outlook to Pride’s play, now they were down to nine players, as they looked to contain UOD and manage the game. Attacks were more sporadic, and limited in scope due to the difficulty of getting players to provide support as might be expected, but, overall, Pride were managing the game well and still creating opportunities, but without being able to add to the score. 

Above: Tash Allderidge, who doubled Pride Park’s lead on Sunday. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

The balance of the game changed after 70 minutes, however, when Eadon sustained a serious looking knee injury. Play was stopped for a lengthy period before the game resumed and with Pride now down to eight players (although Baker came back on her injury limited her mobility significantly) it was a case of all hands to the pumps as UOD started to enjoy more possession and inevitably started to get openings, but for the most part the few shots they had were hit wide or saved relatively comfortably by Jade Howell. 

However, with six minutes of normal time left, an attack by UOD appeared to have been broken up but was diverted back into the centre after a challenge, the ball broke to Jodie Hill and her first-time shot looped up and over Jade Howell. The goal gave UOD added impetus and they pushed forward looking for an equaliser. Seven minutes into time added on and with only a minute left, UOD took a throw-in from the edge of the Pride area, received by Aimee Holstren in space and – although out of the „hit and hope” category – her shot from 25 metres out had goal all over it from the moment it left the boot. 

After 98 minutes of play, therefore it ended all square at 2-2 and penalties were required to decide a winner. Although Pride edged ahead initially, UOD scored the decisive sudden death penalty to advance to the semi-final.

Pride were on course to go through until being effectively reduced to eight players with twenty minutes to play, but in such challenging circumstances to be a minute away from winning the game was nothing short of a herculean effort by the players that represented Pride Park so well yesterday. It is, however, the University of Derby who advance to the semi-final, to play one of Draycott Victoria, Wirksworth Colts, or Belper Town.

Pride return to League action at Moorways next Sunday against Amber Valley (kick-off 1.30pm).

Artwork: Graphics by PW.

Czechia v Spain Photo Gallery

Kris Goman was pitch side at a wet and windy Newcastle to capture the best of the action as Czechia and Spain concluded their Cup of Nations program (22/2/23).

Above: Spain get a header in on goal against Czechia today in Newcastle, New South Wales. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Czechia 0-3 Spain

Australia v Jamaica post-match coverage

Ben Gilby reports on the post-match media conference that followed the Matildas’ 3-0 win over Jamaica today to win the Cup of Nations as both head coaches, Tony Gustavsson and Lorne Donaldson spoke to the press along with Player of the Tournament Mackenzie Arnold (22/2/23).

Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson was delighted that his team extended their winning mentality to lift a trophy at last as the Matildas won the Cup of Nations today in Newcastle.

“Some of the players have been part of the squad for 17 years and they’ve only lifted silverware three times – 2010 Asia Cup and 2017 and 2019 tournament wins, so this doesn’t come around too often, lifting a trophy. We need to get that opportunity to win and that was amazing.

“The one thing we have learned is what it feels like to win. It wasn’t a great game tonight. It wasn’t a great first half against Czech Republic. It wasn’t a great second half against Spain, but tournament football is about finding ways to win, grinding your way through.”

Reflecting on the resilience of his squad to stick to the game plan consistently across the last week despite not always having things their own way on the pitch, the Matildas boss said, “I really credit the players tonight – the way they stayed loyal and true to the plan we had.

“We’ve realised that we can score goals, and score goals in multiple different ways. We’ve averaged 3.3 goals in the last seven games. We can attack that way, and we’ve kept a clean sheet four out of the last five.

“This was tournament football, not a friendly. You are coaching to win. It’s about momentum. We had to read where the momentum was, and how to change it. We weren’t on fire from the start.”

Asked why certain players started and others didn’t, Gustavsson emphasised the importance of impact from the bench and the ability of specific players to influence the game at the right time.

“I want to stress again how important it is to be good over 90 minutes. We need to talk about who the best team to finish the match is. Who are the game changers? It is not that one player is better than another so they start, it might be that the player is the best option to start, to have different tools to change the game.

“I think we all agree that ‘Chids’ (Alex Chidiac) deserves to start based on performance. It doesn’t mean she should start – it means what is best for the game. We looked at Jamaica and saw they start the game well and get stretched the longer the game goes on. We felt that Crummer should run in the first half, and when it opens up a bit, ‘Chids’ ability to run between those lines can unlock things, which she did well.”

Gustavsson highlighted the impact that domestically based players such as Clare Hunt and Cortnee Vine have had on the tournament. Hunt has fitted in seamlessly to international football for the first time in the three matches of this tournament, with Vine scoring a sensational goal against Spain.

“I want to credit the A-League in terms of what they are doing. We’ve seen players go straight in from the A-League to play international football and that step is tough. To jump and then handle it is a big jump, and credit to the A-League players and clubs to be ready for international football. That’s massive. It sends a message to players playing domestically – if you work hard and the door opens, be ready.”

Above: Mackenzie Arnold at today’s post-match media conference. Image: Football Australia.

Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold outlined her determination to make the most of her opportunities during the Cup of Nations, and was rewarded for doing so after being named as player of the tournament.

Speaking to the media after the match, Arnold explained: “I come off a couple of good performances for West Ham and it was like a mindset of having nothing to lose. An opportunity came up and I wanted to grab it with both hands, which is something I haven’t done in the past. Confidence wise it’s really a boost for me having not played in the national team for quite a while.

“This being the only real tournament format we had ahead of the World Cup, it was important to get those games under our belt in 10 days. To perform as we did, we’ve got a bit to work on, but the performances were really good. It was a very positive tournament for us.”

Another player who has certainly grabbed an opportunity over the past week and shone is Western Sydney Wanderers captain Clare Hunt, and Arnold was full of praise for Hunt’s performances at this embryonic stage of the defender’s international career.

“She’s been unreal. especially with the mindset she has come in with. She has shown so much confidence and composure on the ball. We needed that. She will definitely push for a place in the World Cup spot.”

The West Ham United goalkeeper was also thrilled about the prospect of playing in the Matildas’ next scheduled match against European champions England at Brentford.

“I’m really excited, it’s definitely going to be an insane game! They are a competitive squad and a lot of them we faced in the Olympics with GB, so they will be wanting redemption (the Matildas won a dramatic encounter 4-3 in extra-time), so it’s a massive game for both teams.

Above: Jamaica boss Lorne Donaldson speaking to the media after today’s match in Newcastle. Image: Football Australia.

Jamaica head coach Lorne Donaldson spoke about how, for him, this competition was not about results, more about moulding a wider squad of players together ahead of the World Cup.

Donaldson underlined the situation that the Jamaican national side faces at the present time when he said: “We are a young team and we don’t have the luxury of playing a lot of games. Our background with players is college players, club players, or those out of a job right now (players without a club), so we are trying to bring them together and build depth. The tournament helped us tremendously.”

Asked about his thoughts on the game, Donaldson emphasised his sense of pride in his side’s efforts, which he felt were not reflected on the scoreboard.

“They (Australia) were at full strength and we are missing our top, top player, and our leading goalscorer (Bunny Shaw), and she is the leading scorer in the WSL right now. Maybe if we had her here it would be different, but the girls we have here put up a tremendous fight. The score of the game didn’t indicate to me the level of both teams. It was a closer game than 3-0.

“Australia – you have Sam Kerr. When you have Sam out there, and a goalkeeper like that (Mackenzie Arnold), you are going to be (up) there. I like Australia, I like what they have done, the results weren’t there, but the last six months they are getting stronger and stronger. I like the way they play and the energy they bring to the game is tremendous.”

Daly boosts claims for striker spot as newcomers shine

by Nathan Edwards (21/2/23)

Above: Rachel Daly celebrates after scoring for England against Italy in the Arnold Clark Cup on Sunday. Photo: Suvadeep Biswas for Impetus.

Rachel Daly’s headed brace overcame Italy’s second-half scare and maintained England’s flawless record in the Arnold Clark Cup.

Daly scored either side of Sofia Cantore’s controversial finish, to keep the Lionesses on track to retain the cup.

In the run-up to this tournament, Sarina Wiegman said that this competition was the “perfect preparation” for the World Cup this summer, and after two games the England boss will leave these three games behind with some positive thoughts to dwell on.

Since the Dutchwomen has taken the reigns, she has had a massive impact on all levels of the Women’s game, with the Euros victory last summer being the pinnacle.

Above: Alessia Russo – England’s key striker. Photo: Lionesses.

Throughout that historic run, Ellen White was the go-to striker. White has since retired and Manchester United’s Alessia Russo was tasked with replacing England’s record goal scorer.

Russo has done well up front, scoring 11 goals in 18 appearances, but within the starting line-up for the final against Germany, last summer was the current WSL joint-top goalscorer, Rachel Daly.

The Villa striker has only strengthened her claim to the lead striking role in this international tournament, along with giving Wiegman a selection headache.

Daly has converted her rampant WSL form, where she has netted 10 times in 13 outings, to the international stage, with two well-taken headers.

When asked about her preferred position, Daly said, “I’m not bothered, I’m really not,” she said. “I think you guys care more about where I play than I do. I’m genuinely happy to play in any role.

Above: Rachel Daly (12) saluting England fans. Photo: Lionesses.

“Obviously playing in the [number nine role] is something I do week-in, week-out, so it’s a little bit more natural for me. But whatever role I’m given, I’ll do it to the best of my ability.”

The victory at The Coventry Building Society Arena, where it saw a record attendance for any sporting event, also showcased the depth of talent available to Wiegman.

Two of the standout players in the first half, were Katie Robinson and Jess Park, both making their full debut for the Lionesses.

To mark the momentous occasion Robinson assisted Daly’s first, with a whipped delivery that was finished by Daly. It capped off a performance that will delight the England boss.

The 20-year-old caused problems on both wings, and also looked to have a strong understanding between her and the teammates around her.

Above: Jess Park who started for England on Sunday. Photo: Manchester City.

Robinson said, “We (Daly) have never played with each other before, so it is new. I needed to relax a bit on the ball, and cross the ball in earlier, and when I did that we scored”

Along with the Brighton winger, Park was given a shorter cameo only featuring in the first half but despite the limited game time, the Manchester City loanee impressed.

She was able to collect the ball in promising positions and would spearhead the charge towards Italy’s defence, and similarly to Robinson, she linked up well with those around her.

She came off with England leading, but Italy drew level before Daly glanced substitute Lauren James’ cross in.

Italy offered a tough challenge compared to South Korea, but Wiegman will be pleased with the performance her rotated team put in, with some even making a claim to push into her starting 11 when they travel to Australia this summer.