Above: new Leicester City signing Katie Keane, one of the Foxes two brand new players announced this week. Image: via Leicester City FC
By Alyce Collett (7/8/25)
Leicester City has finally gotten going in the summer transfer window, announcing their first two signings for the 2025 offseason.
The first of the signings was young Irish goal keeper Katie Keane, who makes the jump across to the Women’s Super League from League of Ireland club Shamrock Rovers.
Known for an impressive level of agility and reach, Keane may only be 19 years old but she comes to the WSL with plenty of senior experience.
She debuted in the League of Ireland at just 16 years old for Shelbourne FC, before moving across to Athlone Town and quickly establishing herself as the first choice keeper there. She went on to play every minute across 28 league and cup fixtures in 2024 and helped Athlone win the league title before crossing to the Rovers earlier this year.
She also has international experience, both at under age and senior level. She impressed in Ireland’s campaign at the 2024 Under 19 Euros – despite things going far from to plan for the Girls in Green – and Keane has been called up to Ireland’s senior squad on a number of occasions.
Speaking to the club on the news of her announcement, the young prodigy said “It’s incredible to be here and I can’t wait to get started. The stadium looks fantastic and I’m looking forward to being here with our supporters in September.
“Shot-stopping and communication are my strongest attributes. It’s important to encourage your team-mates and that’s what I’d like to bring to the team.”
Leicester City’s other signing is at the other end of the age scale, with experienced American defender Celeste Boureille also signing on for a one year contract at King Power Stadium.
Above: Leicester City’s second signing of the summer transfer window Celeste Boureille: Image: via Leicester City FC
Boureille has made over 200 senior appearances in a career that has taken her all over the world.
She first joined Portland Thorns in the NWSL in 2016, then after loan spells in Australia and France she moved to AC Milan in 2022. After a short stint in Italy she then moved on to join Montpellier and return to France, which was where she joined Leicester City from this week.
Speaking on Leicester City’s social media channels, Boureille said that “I haven’t experienced playing in England yet, but I know it’s one of the best leagues and competitions in the world.
“I am looking forward to challenging myself every day against the best players and hopefully helping the team as much as I can.”
Above: The CommBank ParaMatildas lift the IFCPF World Cup Trophy in 2024. Image: Football Australia.
By Genevieve Henry (6/8/25).
ParaMatildas interim Head Coach Alicia Fergerson has named her 8-player squad that will travel to England to compete in the 2025 IFCPF Women’s Intercontinental Cup from August 18th–23rd at Loughborough University. This squad is packed to the brim with talent, with 6 players returning that were crowned world champions last year, as well as 2 exciting new names.
These familiar faces are Georgia Beikoff, Tahlia Blanshard, Annmarie DeUriarte, Lainee Harrison, Trinity McPhee, and Carly Salmon; players who have been hugely important in the ParaMatildas rise to excellence. Beikoff has been a fixture at the top, scoring 27 goals in just 16 appearances. She will be hugely important alongside experienced defender Blanshard, with 15 appearances.
Fergerson said of the squad, “retaining so many players from our World Cup-winning side gives us a strong foundation to work from and the experience and understanding these players bring into camp is a real benefit. Adding Tamsin and Karina to the group brings fresh energy and talent that complements the squad really well.”
This tournament is an opportunity to gain more experience and hone skills while facing quality opponents in the USA–whom Australia beat in the final of the IFCPF World Cup, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Nepal. Australia will have to finish in the top two after a round robin stage to qualify for the final. As the number one ranked team in the world, the ParaMatildas have all the talent to win it all.
“It’s incredibly exciting to be heading to England and testing ourselves against teams from all over the world. Playing in an international environment like this is invaluable for our players, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to continue building on the momentum we created last year.”
“We know wearing the tag of World Champions brings expectation but our focus is on staying true to the way we play and continuing to grow as a team. The players are proud to represent their country and to showcase what the ParaMatildas are about on and off the pitch.”
“Tournaments like this are crucial for our program. They provide high-quality match minutes, foster international connections, and allow us to measure our progress against the best. They’re also a great platform for promoting women’s CP football and building the pathway for future players.”
2025 IFCPF Intercontinental Cup | CommBank ParaMatildas Squad
Name
Caps (Goals)
Member Federation
Georgia BEIKOFF
16 (27)
NNSW Football
Tahlia BLANSHARD
15 (2)
NNSW Football
Tamsin COLLEY
2 (4)
Football NSW
Annmarie DE URIARTE
12 (17)
Football NSW
Karina GRIGORIAN
7 (2)
Football NSW
Lainee HARRISON
7 (7)
NNSW Football
Trinity MCPHIE
3 (2)
Football QLD
Carly SALMON
12 (5)
Capital Football
Denmark v Australia
Where: LU NFL Field, Loughborough University, England
When: Monday, 18 August 3.00pm local/Tuesday, 19 August 12.00am AEST
Netherlands v Australia
Where: LU NFL Field, Loughborough University, England
When: Tuesday, 19 August 3.00pm local/Wednesday, 20 August 12.00pm AEST
Nepal v Australia
Where: LU NFL Field, Loughborough University, England
When: Wednesday, 20 August 3.00pm local/Thursday, 21 August 12.00pm AEST
USA v Australia
Where: LU NFL Field, Loughborough University, England
When: Friday, 22 August 3.00pm local/Saturday, 23 August 12.00pm AEST
Above: Danella Butrus and Ava Briedis for Bulleen. Photo: Isabelle Campbell
Bulleen Lions tightened their hold on second place with a 6-2 win over FV Academy at the Home of the Matildas. Five different goal scorers contributed to the win which sees them nine points away from first place but more importantly, three clear of a fast finishing Essendon Royals.
FV Academy was a victim of their own recent success coming into this game. While some players were missing through injury, others were missing through international duty and their impressive momentum was somewhat stalled by a brilliant Victorian campaign at the Emerging Matildas championships.
Crucially to meet a Bulleen side that appears to be peaking in time for finals, they were missing several starters, notable in-form fullback Emily Rutkowski and creative midfielder Clancy Westaway.
Having said all that, Bulleen were good, very good and even if they cannot catch Heidelberg at the top of the table, things look to be clicking into place for the defending premiers in time for finals.
Bulleen had almost a full strength squad to pick from, and started strongly. Danella Butrus opened the scoring against her former club with a brilliant solo goal in the 14ht minute. After her cross was cut off, she received the ball back on the wing and shot from the edge of the box to beat Charlotte Hrehoresin’s diving attempt to save.
FV Academy responded quickly. Jade Tam’s corner kick was prodded home by the ever dangerous Fiorina Iaria in the 17th minute to make it 1-1.
Bulleen scored again almost straight from the kickoff. Tiffany Eliadis struck from close range after a corner kick created a goalmouth scramble to restore the lead.
By the 22nd minute it was 3-1. Isabella Accardo’s long ball fell perfectly for Holly Massie to run onto an score after nodding the ball down and rounding the goalkeeper for an easy finish.
Some more trickery from Butrus earned a penalty kick, but Hrehoresin made a strong save from Paige Zois’s spot kick. In the next sequence of play a free kick was earned at the corner of the 18 yard box and Zois delivered one of the goals of the season, shooting directly from an area most would cross from. The curling effort was unsavable in its trajectory and left those in the stands stunned.
Ava Breidis gave those voting for goal of the round something to think about when she scored Bulleen’s fifth in the closing stages of the half. the move began brightly for FV Acamedy with a promising looking attack, but Bulleen struck on the counter attack and after Butrus was well held up, the ball bounced free and Breidis struck a ferocious half-volley to make it 5-1 at the break.
FV Academy found a much better rhythm in the second half, and although Bulleen had chances to increase their lead, the makeshift defence and some decisive goalkeeping kept them from doing so.
On the 58th minute, Iaria brought pulled one back for FV Acamedy. The speedster was on the end of a perfect through ball from Jasmine Millar and raced clear, kept her composure and slotted home her second of the game.
Briedis scored her second with a close range finish in the 67th minute. Butrus cleverly beat her opponent on the right flank before delivering a fast ball across the face of goal. Breidis met the ball at full speed and flicked the ball into the net for Bulleen’s sixth and final goal of the game.
The result sees FV Acamedy drop to 10th spot on the league, but with two games in hand and three more rounds to play, they will have every opportunity to rediscover their exciting form.
Bulleen need to win all three remaining fixtures and hope Heidelberg are prevented from winning one more in order to claim a third successive premiership. That appears unlikely, but they are a side looking sharper every week heading in finals, Zois looks back to her best, Sarah Cain is in dominant form and Ava Briedis is surely catching the eye of A-League Women recruiters.
Despite conceding twice, the defence is looking at its most settled so far this season, and young goalkeeper Alyssia Ierardo seems more comfortable with every minute on the pitch.
Round 20 will see Bulleen host South Melbourne at the Veneto club in a must win game for both sides.
Around The Grounds:
Carina Rossi’s persistence and Rhianna Pollicina’s craft gave Box Hill United a 2-0 win against Brunswick Juventus Rossi opened the scoring after Juventus failed to clear a Josephine Aulicino cross. The Melbourne City poacher forced the balls over the line amid the chaos of falling bodies in the goalmouth.
Polilcina sealed the three points with an excellent solo goal in added time. After wriggling free on the flank, she cut inside and scored at the second attempt. The win sees Box Hill end the round just a point outside of the top four.
The team that they are chasing, Alamein FC, just seem to keep getting the job done each week. They have firepower and are a difficult side to stop. Neve Duston scored from a powerfully struck penalty, but Boroondara-Carey Eagles scored an equaliser after Rachel Stirton capitalised on a defensive error.
Maximillia found all the space that she needed to win the game for Alamein. The mid-season recruit got behind the Boroondara defence to finish calmly and keep her side in fourth spot on the table.
Essendon Royals continued their late season charge. Goals to Emma Langley and Alana Cerne gave them the win over Bentleigh Greens despite a cool finish by Samantha Curwood-Wagner which ensured a tight finish.
Langley ghosted in at the far post to score her side’s opener, while Cerne finished off a free kick by Kendrah Smith to provide what would be an essential two goal cushion.
Essendon’s position in the finals looks assured, but they face South Melbourne and Heidelberg in the final two rounds of the season and will be taking nothing for granted.
An Aeryn Tarrant wonder goal gave Heidelberg United a vital 2-1 win over Spring Hills FC and continued their march toward a premiership.
Bronte Peel’s fourth minute strike looked like it would set up an easy day at the office for The Bergers, but Yukina Tamamura’s strike on the half-volley levelled things up in the 50th minute.
With the game in the balance, and Heidelberg looking at the possibility of two winless weeks in s row, their Junior Matildas star stepped up. Tarrant picked up the ball at halfway, carried it forward and launched a rocket of a strike from just inside of 30 yards. The goal stunned anybody watching, it was a strike of pure perfection and underlined the feeling following the Emerging Matildas Championships that a new star is born in Victorian Football.
South Melbourne scored a very late winner against Preston United at Lakeside Stadium. Alana Burn scored in the 97th minute, when she forced the ball over the line from a corner kick. It was the last kick of the game and could prove crucial to South’s season. They currently sit two points behind Alamein, but would have slipped the eighth on the table with a draw or loss. Midfielder Grace Taranto was used in a more attacking role for South which enabled them to keep up the pressure on the visitors.
The defeat was a cruel one for Preston, who face two potential top four sides in the final rounds of the season.
Torrential rain couldn’t dampen the drama in Round 22 of the National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW competition, as several sides made key statements in their push for the top four — and others slipped just when it mattered most.
Match of the Round: Manly United 1–1 Bulls FC Academy
Cromer Park
In a clash played under grim skies and swirling wind at Cromer Park, ladder leaders Bulls FC Academy were forced to settle for a point after a late penalty saw Manly United snatch a 1-1 draw.
The Bulls were the sharper of the two sides early, with Isabella Coco Di Sipio a constant threat. After forcing Nicole Simonsen into a strong save and nearly scoring with a flicked header, Di Sipio eventually broke through on the stroke of halftime — rising highest from a corner to nod home her 11th goal of the season.
The second half was wide open, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal. The Bulls had a golden opportunity to double their lead when Jynaya Dos Santos threaded Di Sipio through one-on-one, only for her effort to fly over the bar.
Manly were handed a lifeline late in the match after Anita Zordan was fouled inside the box. The midfielder stepped up to take the penalty and, despite Mio Nemoto getting a hand to it, buried the equaliser.
The final minutes saw end-to-end action, but neither side could find a winner in a thrilling conclusion.
NWS Spirit 0–3 APIA Leichhardt
Christie Park
APIA Leichhardt strengthened their finals credentials with a dominant 3-0 win over NWS Spirit at Christie Park — their fifth victory in six games.
Jessica Seaman opened the scoring from a set piece, powering a header past Tiahna Robertson despite the keeper getting a touch. The goal celebration took an amusing turn as Seaman tumbled over a teammate, but she was quickly back on her feet to celebrate.
A ruthless counterattack made it 2-0 before the break, as Sophie Hoban intercepted in midfield and released Ashlie Crofts, who teed up Charlotte Lancaster for a clinical finish.
Crofts then capped off the performance in the 82nd minute, reacting fastest after Robertson parried a Claudia Cicco header and poking home from close range.
UNSW 3–1 Gladesville Ravens
The Village Green
UNSW made a major statement on Saturday evening, bringing Gladesville Ravens’ seven-game unbeaten run to an end with a convincing 3-1 victory.
The deadlock was broken just before halftime when a Ravens handball inside the box gifted UNSW a penalty. Aya Yamahata stepped up and slotted it home with confidence.
Ten minutes after the break, Georgia Plessas doubled the lead with a dipping shot from distance that squirmed under Sham Khamis’ gloves and over the line.
Abbey Lemon added a third shortly after coming on, finding the net in the 71st minute to seal the result. Eliza Familton scored a late consolation for the Ravens, but the three points were already in UNSW’s grasp.
Macarthur Rams 1–4 Illawarra Stingrays
Lynwood Park
The Stingrays returned to winning ways with a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Macarthur Rams, powered by a standout first-half showing.
Caitlin Cooper opened the scoring with a tidy left-footed finish from range after holding off her defender. Minutes later, Ella Giles made it two — slotting home after a well-worked move involving Tara Cannon and Sofia Christopherson.
Siobhan Edwards grabbed a third before the break with a thunderous volley after latching onto a loose ball in the box.
The Rams pulled one back in the 63rd minute when Sophia Brokenshire pounced on a rebound following a strong save from Brianna Edwards, but the Stingrays had the last word. In the dying minutes, Edwards capped off her standout performance with a composed finish after a give-and-go at the top of the box.
Newcastle Jets 1–0 Sydney Olympic
Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility
The Jets finally got their reward for weeks of improvement, securing a morale-boosting 1-0 win over Sydney Olympic at home.
After a cagey first half that ended goalless, Newcastle found their opener just two minutes after the restart. Emma Dundas drove through midfield and played in Alexis Collins, who delivered a precise cross for Makayla Clifton to slam home from close range.
Olympic pushed late for an equaliser, but the Jets held firm to bank their second win of the season and delight the Lake Macquarie faithful.
Western Sydney Wanderers 0–2 Sydney University
Wanderers Football Park
Sydney University’s late-season surge continued with a professional 2-0 win over a struggling Wanderers side now winless in nine.
Talia Kapetanellis lit up the match with a curling rocket from outside the box in the 40th minute, giving Uni a deserved lead. She was at it again just after the break, reacting fastest after her own shot was saved to sweep in the rebound and double the advantage.
The Wanderers were spirited but couldn’t find a breakthrough, as Uni comfortably closed out the match.
Northern Tigers v Mt Druitt Town Rangers – Postponed due to weather
Heavy rain forced the postponement of the clash between Northern Tigers and Mt Druitt Town Rangers, with a new date for the fixture yet to be confirmed.
Above:England celebrate with the fans after winning Euro 25 Photo: @Lionesses on X
By Gethin Thurlow(3/8/25)
I’ve been lucky enough to do a lot of amazing things in my life, but I’m not sure much will top seeing England win the Euros in Switzerland. I am truly grateful for what was ultimately a day that I will never forget.
The day for us started in one of the two fanzones of Basel – the ‘England fan’ designated one. Scattered among the nervous English fans were the red shirts of Switzerland, as well as some German and Dutch fans who’d anticipated reaching this stage. The unity displayed here is something special, that only tournament football can bring about.
Not only were those fans willing to unapologetically cheer for another nation, but England fans were also able to put aside any club rivalries. Arsenal fans cheered on Hannah Hampton and Lucy Bronze as much as their blue counterparts, while Chelsea fans roared Chloe Kelly’s introduction to the pitch with the same vigour as Leah Williamson’s countless headed clearances.
These fans can acknowledge the unique circumstances of a final. Whether they have a favourite player or club, if they doubted Sarina Wiegman at one moment, if they don’t trust one of the starting 11, it is time to put all that aside. Everything depends on this one match, the trophy being won or not. For one game and one game only, support for this team, squad and country was unconditional. This is something I really felt throughout the day and was another reason why it was like no other football match experience.
The fan walk was its own event, and an unforgettable one at that. As culturally iconic as you can get, it was a black cab that headed up the walk, giving the streets of Basel a small taste of a London morning. The equally iconic band followed, having been as brilliant as the players throughout the Euros. The new ‘Sarina’ chant was just exceptional, and they’d spent every single matchday playing the same few tunes over and over again, right through extra time and penalties.
Above: The England fan walk to the stadium in Basel Photo: @FreeLionesses on X
Over the 4 kilometre walk to the stadium, through blazing sunshine, some light drizzle and 5 minutes of the rain absolutely thrashing down spirits were kept high by the band, and our overall excitement. Who cares about some rain when you’re about to watch the final of the Euros?
Something that made the fan walk so spectacular were the interactions with people at the side. Manoeuvring through the tight cobbled streets of Basel, there were apartments and balconies everywhere you looked, and so many of them popped their head out to sneak out an English or Spanish flag – provoking either cheers or boos (always in good nature) or just riling up the crowd. One such moment had us singing “we love you Switzerland, we do” and we truly did.
In the ground the vibes were slightly different. It was becoming more real, the nerves and tension were starting to creep in. Luckily the organisers were there to distract us, with two inflated ‘clappers’ for each seat and a tutorial video to follow, as the fans would be participating in the closing ceremony ourselves.
Suddenly, the national anthems were sung, the countdown to kickoff started and the whistle blew, we were off. The first 40 minutes weren’t great, lets be honest. However the fans never quietened down or gave up, and when Chloe Kelly was brought on the noise was louder than ever. The lift this generated in the crowd was similar to the lift to England’s all round play gained from Kelly’s introduction to the pitch.
When Alessia Russo leaned back and her header nestled into the corner, the stadium was even more rocked, England were back in it. As Spain pushed on towards the end the atmosphere never wore off. Every block, tackle, clearance or save felt like a goal and screams of “Sarina” in tune with the band were constant, we really began to believe that England could hold on and get this victory.
Possibly the biggest moment of the day for the Lionesses’ fans was when referee Stephanie Frapport pointed right at us to signal the penalty shoot out would be taken at that end. The penalty shootout itself went exactly how they do – everything that goes your way is the greatest high ever and every one that goes against you is pure devastation. I wouldn’t even describe it as a roller coaster of emotions, it’s more of a washing machine where they just get thrown up, down and any direction every second.
Above: The England squad celebrating with their medals in front of the fans Photo: @Lionesses on X
Eventually though, Chloe Kelly stepped up, buried her penalty and England were champions. Cue the wild celebrations once again, but there was also a sense of relief this time, we had finally done it. There would be no more extra time or penalties, we hadn’t gone through every emotion on this earth just to make it through the quarter final this time, football had actually come home again.
The joy of those next few moments is hard to describe. The entire squad, and a few seconds later the staff all sprinted over to the fans as ‘Sweet Caroline’ began to play over the tannoy. As were we singing and dancing along it did start to sink in that England had won the Euros. After all the doubts, the inconsistent results, the tough group, the rise of our opponents and the retirements had made this seem impossible; here Leah Williamson was lifting the trophy.
It has been such an amazing experience to be at the Euros, and being with the England fans at each game has been fun. It is a slightly different atmosphere to home games in England but I like it, less people doesn’t have to mean less passion or support. In that winning moment and the hours after it felt like we were all on cloud nine, walking around Basel recognising each other and acknowledging that shared experience, knowing we had both just seen England bring it home.
Football has so much power and it showed all of that last Sunday. It might sound pathetic and obsessive to some people, but that was genuinely the best day of my life and I was really the happiest I’ve ever been in that moment seven days ago.
Above:Kaitlyn Bellanca (red shirt), in action in a previous game, scored Perth RedStar’s opening goal at Fremantle City today.Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
Fremantle City 2-3 Perth RedStar
by Ella McShane
A wet and windy afternoon at Wauhop Park set the stage for a fiercely contested afternoon of football.
Despite the challenging conditions, both teams maintained disciplined positioning even as the weather conditions caused play to fizzle out.
Perth RedStar asserted dominance early when Kaitlyn Bellanca opened the scoring just 12 minutes in. The clean strike from a tight angle on the left wing impressively found the net, despite the elements working against her.
Freo secured the equaliser a mere ten minutes later when Abbey Green’s surging run into the left-hand side of the box allowed a superb cross to clear overhead. Leyna Wood showcased excellent anticipation when she positioned herself perfectly to meet the cross and guided a header into the back of the net.
A quick turnaround for the port city side was emphasised when Sophie Meaden’s run towards goal surpassed RedStar goalkeeper Gabby Dal Busco. The tap-in from Wood gave the homeside the lead, in a somewhat symbolic show with the sun now shining down on Wauhop Park.
Fremantle’s lead was short-lived as, against the run of play, RedStar’s Renee Leota delivered a precise cross from distance. The ball found the feet of a perfectly positioned Lauren Continibali, whose ever-so-slight redirection guided the ball into the net to level the score.
A RedStar free kick ultimately sealed their win. Andreia Teixeira lifted the ball into the box, and while home goalkeeper Megan Phillips got a hand to it, she couldn’t maintain control, and the ball slipped past her, crossing the goal line.
Despite a closely contested remainder of the second half, the visitors gained a well-earned three points on the road and are currently sitting seven points behind front-runners Perth Soccer Club ahead of their showdown with the Azzurri next Sunday.
Murdoch University Melville 0-4 Football West Academy
Above: Theo Mouithys, who celebrated her Junior Matildas call-up for the ASEAN Championships with a brace for the Football West Academy today. Photo: U18sNPL.
The Football West Academy(FWA)battled through atrocious conditions, which at one point forced the players from the field, to come out on top at Besteam Stadium today.
The game began in exceptionally windy conditions, but the teenage side had the better of the early chances with Theo Mouithys hitting a shot that was pushed out for a corner by home keeper Jemma Skinner.
Just before the quarter-hour mark, the players were taken off the pitch after the strong wind became accompanied by torrential rain, which made playing on impossible. Thankfully, the squall was short-lived, and the action resumed after around four minutes break.
The visitors hit the front with 21 minutes played when Mouithys broke through from the left, and the Junior Matilda slotted a shot across Skinner and in. Eight minutes later, Emily Garnett doubled the FWA’s lead.
Football West Academy got their third with 66 minutes on the clock as substitutes Lacey Heys and Cate McAuliffe combined, with Heys playing a centimetre-perfect pass through for McAuliffe to slot home.
Mouithys got her second and the teenage side’s fourth with five minutes remaining when she turned her defender and curled a shot into the right-hand corner.
FOOTBALL WEST ACADEMY: McGreadie Cole, Z. Dumont, Johnson, Williams-Jones, Leong, Lange, Dalton, Santos, Brady, Mouithys, Garnett. Substitutes: A. Dumont, McAuliffe, Collinson, Houlis, Heys, Barlow, Borg.
Subiaco 0-4 Perth SC
Above: Daisy McAllister (azure shirt), who scored two of Perth SC’s four goals at Subiaco today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri overcame challenging conditions and a battling Subiaco side to claim a victory that sees them remain seven points clear at the top of the NPLW WA with just four matches remaining of the regular season.
The visitors were rapidly out of the block with Jess Flannery driving along the left to play a ball in for Ella Lincoln, whose shot was held by Monique Todd in the Subi goal. Shortly afterwards, Sam Mathers was also denied by the shot stopper.
It was all Perth, and with a quarter of an hour played, they took the lead. Lincoln put in a cross on the right for Flannery to turn and hit the ball into the net for a superb goal.
Conditions then took a major turn for the worse as heavy rain fell, accompanied by extremely gusty winds that made it exceptionally tough for the players. Perth looked after the ball very well during this period and earned the one remaining chance of the half when Mathers’ turn and shot from the edge of the area came off the right-hand post and out for a corner that Subiaco dealt with.
After the break, the weather eased slightly, but the wind remained a feature of the game. Just three minutes into the second half, Lincoln scored a superb second when she received the ball some 25 yards out with her back to goal. The Azzurri attacker beat Tayna Campos and curled a shot that hit the right-hand post and then rolled along the line to hit the other post. The goal was awarded.
Six minutes later, Perth made the game safe after clearing a Subi free-kick, which saw Daisy McAllister released to break free and direct the ball calmly into the net.
McAllister grabbed her second and the Azzurri’s fourth with 12 minutes remaining – and it was an absolute peach. A Perth free-kick just inside the Subi half was headed on the edge of the box, and McAllister hit a stunning first-time volley from the edge of the area.
This result and another win for Perth RedStar today sets up next Sunday’s clash between the two sides at RedStar Arena as a really enthralling prospect.
Above: Alex Poad in action for Fremantle City this season. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
31/7/25
We’ve assembled a group of people who are watching the competition’s matches especially closely to identify the league’s most consistent players each month. For May, Ben Gilby, Kelechi Osunwa, and Tommy Doleman produced a shortlist of players, from which the winner was selected.
The shortlist
Dayle Schroeder (Perth SC)
Above: Dayle Schroeder makes a save against Murdoch University Melville this month. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
It has been another good month for Dayle Schoeder. Just one goal conceded during July, with the additional record of only 10 league goals put past her in 2025 as the regular season moves towards its final month.
The Bunbury-born shotstopper’s form has been on a sharp uptick over the past 12 months or so, as she has backed up a hugely impressive 2024 at Fremantle City by continuing to post eye-catching stats in 2025.
With Schroeder the last line of a brick wall style Perth SC defence, the Azzurri will feel confident of continuing their strong run of results as the campaign reaches its conclusion.
Leyna Wood (Fremantle City)
Above: Leyna Wood (left) on the charge for Fremantle City this month. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
Freo’s all-action American attacker has really stepped up to the plate as the season reaches its last six weeks.
Wood contributed five goals across July in games against Balcatta Etna, Subiaco, and the Football West Academy as her team kept their top-four hopes alive.
The bustling presence, strong ball-playing skills, and an eye for a goal all mark Wood out as someone who will be integral to the Port City side’s run-in as they attempt to close the gap on the sides above them.
Stella Zampogna (Subiaco)
Above: Stella Zampogna on the charge for Subiaco. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
Stella Zampogna has hit some of her best form of the season right as things are reaching the pointy end.
Zampogna’s July began with a classy goal against Fremantle City when she lifted a glorious shot into the top right-hand corner from outside the box on the right, and continued when she added two further strikes in Subi’s Round 16 win over UWA-Nedlands.
It hasn’t just been the goals that have impressed in Zampogna’s game this month, though. Intelligent runs see her as an integral part of her side’s offensive game, and this has been vital in Subi picking up two wins on the bounce in July, and being a tough nut to crack in games against top-four sides Balcatta Etna and the Football West Academy.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month for July 2025:
Alex Poad (Fremantle City)
Above: Alex Poad in possession for Fremantle City at Subiaco this month. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
Fremantle City are making a late charge for a place in the top four with a run that has seen them win five of their last six league matches. Alex Poad’s form is a significant reason for that.
Poad’s work at the back and in linking play with those ahead of her has seen the Port City club produce eye-catching wins over top-four duo Balcatta Etna and Football West Academy this month, as well as success at Subiaco.
With a State Cup semi-final also to come, whilst the odds may well be against them, with Poad in this form, Freo will be going all out to keep their improved run of results going over the final six weeks of the league season.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month Roll of Honour 2025 season
There were many stories to come out of England’s success at the 2025 Euros, with many members of the squad delivering when it ultimately matters to seal a title defence for the Lionesses. One of those was Hannah Hampton, with the 24 year old goal keeper delivering a rock solid performance in goal to see England through two intense penalty shoot outs in both the quarter-final against Sweden and final against Spain.
It has been a pretty remarkable 18 months or so for Hampton, who made her Lionesses debut in 2022 but did not make her competitive debut for the team until the Euros Qualifier against the Republic of Ireland in April last year.
Above: Hannah Hampton with England head coach Sarina Wiegman. Photo: Nick Potts/PA.
Since then she has continued to show her merit and slowly but surely earned her spot as the first choice goal keeper for England, dethroning Mary Earps in the process.
In the weeks leading up to the Euros there had been a lot of discussion in the mainstream media about the decision to have Hampton as the number one keeper, but Hampton certainly proved her doubters wrong during her first major tournament.
This started with a stellar save to her right in England’s penalty shootout win over Sweden in the quarter-final; which she made with a tampon up one nostril due to a nosebleed. Her heroic status was then sealed in the final, where she once again came up clutch with two saves to deny Spain and ensure England retained their European crown.
Above: Hampton suffered a nosebleed against Sweden. Photo: Eddie Keogh.
Hannah Hampton Stats Euros 2025 Final vs Spain
Shots on Target Against: 5 Saves: 4 Save Percentage: 80%
It is not easy to stay alert and concentrate hard as a goal keeper for a full 90 minutes, but that is exactly what Hampton did in the Euros Final, plus the extra half an hour of extra time.
Up the other end there was clear examples of concentration and communication levels dropping within the Spanish defensive group, which never happened with Hampton and the defenders in front of her.
However, Hampton lifted her performance to another level in the penalty shoot out.
One interesting thing about the way Hampton goes about facing a penalty shot is her lack of movement in anticipation of the shot. Where other goal keepers will bounce up and down the goal line and wave their arms around to try and intimidate the player taking the kick, Hampton takes a very different approach. She does not move her feet aside from a slight hop, with the only real movement coming from what can be described as over emphasised claps.
The first shot she faced was against Patri Guijarro, whose penalty was successful after Hampton dived to her left but Guijarro’s shot went straight down the middle.
The second shot Hampton faced would prove to be a different story for the English keeper.
Facing Mariona Caldentey – who is well known for being a strong penalty kick taker – Hampton again dived to her left, but with a little bit more energy and stretch in her dive than she had in her attempt to save Guijarro’s shot. This proved to be important because it meant she was able to stop Caldentey’s shot, but if she had not had that power, she would not have dived far enough to be able to stop the shot.
The third penalty taker for Spain was Aitana Bonmati, who much like Caldentey was unable to get past Hampton.
This time though, Bonmati took a different approach to both Guijarro and Caldentey, instead choosing to shoot to Hampton’s right side instead of her left. Hampton did initially take a step to her left as Bonmati had a couple of steps before she connected with the ball, but Hampton was able to change direction quickly enough to dive and save Bonmati’s subsequent shot.
The final shot Hampton faced was from young up and coming star Salma Paralluelo, who provided a different factor to navigate for Hampton as she is left footed, whereas the previous three kick takers had all been right footers.
Hampton did choose the correct side to dive to, but it ultimately did not matter as Paralluelo skewed her shot too far and it sailed on out passed the outside of the goal post and the job was done for England.
Defying Expectations
What makes Hampton’s rise to where her football career is today even more remarkable is that it would never have happened if she had listened to what doctors told her as a kid.
Hampton was born with a condition called strabismus, which is also known as a squint and means that if she was looking at an object with one eye, her other eye would be looking in a completely different direction. The issue was so severe that by the time she was three, she had already had three operations to correct it, and even then it was not completely healed.
That was not all, as when she was doing a medical check up at Stoke City when she was 12, she was diagnosed with impaired depth perception. Hampton told the BBC: “I was told from a young age that I couldn’t play football, that it wouldn’t be a profession I could pursue. But here I am.”
Speaking about Hampton’s story following the final win, England head coach Sarina Wiegman said: “Every player has their one story and journey and hers has been incredible. Starting the tournament and losing the first game, there was so much riding on every game, we had five finals. She had to step up and I think she has been amazing. It’s a little bit like a fairytale to stop those two penalties in the final.”
Hampton returns to Chelsea with an international major tournament medal around her neck, which will join her WSL title medals and cup medals. She also returns as England’s undisputed – and heroic – number one.
Above: Aideen Keane celebrates her goal. Photo: Georgie Lewis
It was an action-packed Round 21 of the National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW competition, with a few surprise results reshaping the ladder ahead of the final stretch. With top-four ambitions and relegation battles on the line, every game carried extra weight — and the drama did not disappoint.
Match of the Round: Sydney University 1-2 UNSW
Sydney Uni Football Ground
UNSW FC kept their finals hopes alive with a determined 2-1 win over Sydney University under the lights at Sydney Uni Football Ground.
The away side started brightly, with Akala Howell tested early and Sofia Fante forced into a pair of saves to keep UNSW corners out. At the other end, Uni nearly took the lead through Poppy Tay, but Howell was up to the task.
It was Trudy Camilleri who broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute, beating two defenders and unleashing a stunning long-range strike into the top corner. Sydney Uni responded 10 minutes later through Talia Kapetanelis, who rose highest to power home a header from a corner — showing she’s just as lethal in the air as she is with her left foot.
But it was a well-worked team move that handed UNSW the winner on the stroke of half-time — Camilleri slipping a perfectly weighted pass to Chloe Smith, who rounded the keeper and finished coolly for her first league goal in nine matches.
UNSW created further chances through Leixa Puxty and Angelique Hristodoulou in the second half, but Fante held firm. Despite late pressure from the home side, UNSW’s backline stood tall to secure a crucial three points in the finals race.
Bulls FC Academy 1-0 Western Sydney Wanderers
Northbridge Oval
The Bulls edged a narrow but dominant 1-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers to maintain their position at the top of the table.
Jynaya Dos Santos sparked the decisive moment in the 27th minute, winning the ball and feeding Petria Phillips, who battled through pressure and poked home past the outrushing Aimee Hall. From there, the Bulls controlled possession and territory but were unable to extend their lead.
Wanderers struggled to mount a consistent attacking threat and were largely pinned in their own half for much of the contest. Despite missed chances, the Bulls did enough to hold on for another important win.
Sydney Olympic 4-2 NWS Spirit FC
Valentine Sports Park
Sydney Olympic returned to form in spectacular fashion with a 4-2 win over finals-chasing NWS Spirit FC, led by a sensational Aideen Keane hat-trick.
Keane opened the scoring within two minutes with a stunning strike, and after Spirit equalised through Victoria Martin — thanks to a lovely ball over the top from Bethany Gordon — she restored Olympic’s lead with a dazzling solo effort just before the break.
Alyssa Whinham added a third after reacting fastest to a loose ball, before Keane completed her hat-trick in the 84th minute with a composed finish from range. Spirit managed a late consolation via Lola Greenberg, but the points stayed in Belmore.
Mt Druitt Town Rangers 3-0 Macarthur Rams
Popondetta Park
Mt Druitt Town Rangers bounced back to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 victory over Macarthur Rams.
Erin Leah Tavares struck inside three minutes, capitalising on a loose header back to the Rams keeper. Leena Khamis doubled the lead just before half-time, finishing off a slick move started by Rosaria Galea and Roukayah Al Fararjeh.
In the second half, Galea turned provider once again, keeping a wayward cross alive and lifting it back in for Khamis to nod home her second. The win gives the Rangers a timely boost heading into the final rounds.
APIA Leichhardt 2-1 Manly United
Lambert Park
Ashlie Crofts bagged a brace as APIA Leichhardt took a huge step towards finals with a 2-1 win over fellow top-four contenders Manly United.
Crofts opened the scoring after a clever ball in behind from Charlotte Lancaster, drilling a low finish past Nicole Simonsen. Manly equalised early in the second half through a slick corner routine, Alexia Forner’s curling cross sneaking straight in at the far post.
But Crofts proved the difference once more, heading home in the 72nd minute from a corner in a crowded box to seal the points. APIA now sit just one point outside the top four.
Illawarra Stingrays 0-0 Northern Tigers
Macedonia Park
The Stingrays and Tigers shared the spoils in a tense 0-0 draw that may have major consequences for Illawarra’s Premiership hopes.
Northern Tigers came out on the front foot, controlling large spells of possession and creating the better chances. But Brianna Edwards was excellent between the posts, cutting out dangerous balls and standing tall under pressure.
The Stingrays had one scare late on when Edwards handled just outside the box, but the resulting free-kick was cleared. A point each, but it feels like two lost for the South Coast side.
Gladesville Ravens 6-0 Newcastle Jets
Christie Park
Eliza Familton ran riot with a hat-trick as Gladesville Ravens demolished Newcastle Jets 6-0 in their most dominant performance of the season.
Familton opened the scoring early and doubled her tally before the break. Goals from Taren King and Keisha Allen gave the Ravens a 3-0 cushion by half-time.
Despite some improvement from the Jets in the second half, the floodgates opened late. Familton grabbed her third after a defensive error, and Patricia Charalambous added a sixth in stoppage time to round off a ruthless display.
Above: Western Australian talent Georgia Cassidy is among the names called up to the U-23 squad. Image: Rob Lizzi for Impetus Football.
by Genevieve Henry (7/30/25).
Head Coach Joe Palatsides has announced the U-23 Squad that will be flying to Vietnam to compete in the ASEAN Women’s Championship taking place from August 6-19. The squad is full of names from the A-League Women, as well as some recent Matildas debutants.
Palatsides, who worked under Joe Montemurro at Olympique Lyonnais in addition to working as a youth coach for Melbourne Victory, will be leading this team to Vietnam with every intention of winning the tournament. Australia tends to send a youth development squad to this tournament, although it is not a U-23 competition. The Nations this team will face will likely be full strength.
Palatsides commented “Development is a big part of what we’re doing, but we’re also going to Vietnam to win. We want our players to embrace the challenge, rise to the occasion, and understand what it means to wear the Australian jersey.”
Australia’s U-23 squad qualified directly for this tournament by winning the AFF Championship in 2022. Although it is not a senior call-up, it is one of the closest environments to the experience and a very valuable opportunity.
“This tournament is a really important opportunity for our players to experience international football in a meaningful way.”
“It gives them a real taste of what it takes to compete at this international level while coming up against quality opposition in unfamiliar conditions and doing it within a structure that mirrors the expectations of the CommBank Matildas.”
“Some of these players have already had a taste of senior football while others are knocking on the door, but no matter where they are on their journey, this kind of experience is incredibly valuable.”
Above: Bryleeh Henry is one to watch this tournament for not only her talent, but experience. Image: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Players such as Bryleeh Henry, Isabel Gomez, and Chloe Lincoln who have debuted for the senior national team will be expected to be leaders within this talented squad. Players such as Perth Glory’s Georgia Cassidy, Western United’s Sasha Grove, and Melbourne Victory’s Alana Jancevski are among the exciting names to watch as they gain experience in a competitive environment.
Australian U-23 Squad for ASEAN Women’s Championship
Name
Position
Current Club/Member Federation
Georgia CASSIDY
Midfielder
Perth SC / Football West
Alana CERNE
Defender
Essendon Royals SC / Football VIC
Amy CHESSARI
Midfielder
Western Sydney Wanderers FC (NPL) / Football NSW
Naomi THOMAS-CHINNAMA
Defender
Unattached
Claudia CICCO
Defender
APIA Leichhardt FC / Football NSW
Tahlia FRANCO
Goalkeeper
Macarthur Rams FC / Football NSW
Holly FURPHY
Midfielder
Unattached
Isabel GOMEZ
Midfielder
Northern Tigers FC / Football NSW
Sasha GROVE
Defender
Unattached
Bryleeh HENRY
Midfielder
Unattached
Sally JAMES
Goalkeeper
APIA Leichhardt FC / Football NSW
Alana JANCEVSKI
Midfielder
Unattached
Grace JOHNSTON
Defender
Preston Lions FC / Football VIC
Aideen KEANE
Midfielder
Sydney Olympic FC / Football NSW
Chloe LINCOLN
Goalkeeper
Unattached
Leticia MCKENNA
Midfielder
Unattached
Emilia MURRAY
Attacker
Coogee United FC / Football NSW
Annalise RASMUSSEN
Attacker
UNSW FC / Football NSW
Sofia SAKALIS
Midfielder
Box Hill United Pythagoras FC / Football VIC
Hayley TAYLOR-YOUNG
Defender
Unattached
Ella TONKIN
Defender
Northern Tigers FC / Football NSW
Tori TUMETH
Defender
Unattached
Alicia WOODS
Midfielder
Brisbane Roar FC (NPL) / Football QLD
Australian U-23 Squad for ASEAN Women’s Championship
Australia ASEAN Women’s Championship Fixtures
v Myanmar: Thursday, 7 August, 4.30pm local / 7.30pm AEST
v Philippines: Sunday, 10 August, 7.30pm local / 10.30pm AEST
v Timor-Leste: Wednesday, 13 August, 7.30pm local / 10.30pm AEST
All matches will be played at Việt Trì Stadium, Phú Thọ, Vietnam.
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