Impetus’ Ryan Miller-Woodsreports on Wellington Phoenix’s media conference ahead of tomorrow’s home game with Western United (25/11/22).
Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Natalie Lawrence. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
In Wellington Phoenix’s opening match of the season against Melbourne City last week, arguably the most dangerous and effective player throughout was Chile international Cote Rojas who picked up one goal and two very crucial assists.
This week, Wellington will be up against a World Cup winner, the vastly experienced Jessica McDonald. Speaking to the media today, Nix head coach Natalie Lawrence outlined what she is expecting from the USWNT player.
“We know she’s going to provide a lot of class; she’s going to provide speed; she provides the experience. We’ve obviously watched the game back and she scored their goal – but she’s always going to be somebody that we have to watch out for. We’ve looked through videos of her, like recently, and whilst we know what her strengths are and we’re going to try and nullify them as much as we can, so then we can play our game.”
Reflecting more widely on the threat posed by tomorrow’s opponents, Lawrence said: “They’re good, you can tell that a lot of them (United’s players) have come from the same club, with the same coaches and then they’ve added quality in like Jess (Jessica) McDonald, like (Chloe) Logarzo and their goalkeeper (Hillary Beall, on loan from Racing Louisville for the entire A-League Women season).
“They’re going to be like a well-oiled machine and you can see that from (the way) they beat the reigning champions (Melbourne Victory) last week, so we can’t take them lightly. We’ve looked at what strengths they have and their weaknesses and that’s what we’ll try and exploit this weekend so we’re hoping for a pretty good game.”
In terms of player availability this week, Lawrence provided an update. “Still a few similar ones (from last week). So Izzy’s (Isabel Gomez) still out but progressing really well. She actually got through her first training yesterday, was looking good, so hopefully, she’ll be back soon. Wis (Grace Wisnewski) and Lily (Alfeld) are still out and so’s Rollo (Emma Rolston). So we have Mickey (Michaela) Robertson back in and in contention (to appear in the match) which is great.”
In regards to having Michaela Robertson back and available to play, the Phoenix head coach emphasised what the player will add to her side this week.
“She is just like a little whipper-snapper and adds energy because of her pace and because of how she is but just her personality too. So having her back in training and having her back into selection, having her available to play in Wellington, her home town is pretty awesome for her to hopefully make her debut this weekend.”
Above: Wellington Phoenix’s Michaela Robertson – back for tomorrow’s home game with Western United. Photo: Western United.
After being unavailable for selection last weekend due to concussion, Michaela Robertson outlined how frustrating it was to miss her side’s first-ever game at home.
“Yeah, look I had to go into that with a realistic mindset. You know, I hadn’t been training, I hadn’t been cleared but I was obviously a little bit disappointed with the timing, coming in a week late but now that I’m able to take the field, I’m stoked to be named in the squad so soon.”
Unlike anyone else that is in the squad, Robertson is the only player at the club to come from Wellington, which makes tomorrow’s opportunity to play a home game for her hometown team. It’s a culmination of a dream.
“Yeah, I think this is a moment that I’ve dreamed of my whole life, just even for a women’s (Wellington) Phoenix team, to be in the team and now having an opportunity to take to the field, I’m absolutely fizzing for it.”
Having spent last weekend’s game in the stands watching on, Lawrence outlined what she noticed in particular about her team’s efforts against Melbourne City. “Yeah, it was really positive. I think the first half we had a really good performance.
“I thought we could have been wider at times, just held our space and just been a little more patient on the attack, so that’s what we’ve been working on in training this week and just hope to create some moments up top.
“Last week there was a lot to learn from. I think we’ve worked on it a little bit this week in training. There was also a lot of positives, so we’re going to be trying to build on that this game, and yeah, I think we’re going to do really well.”
Ahead of Canberra United’s trip to Queensland to face Brisbane Roar on Saturday, the media heard from players Laura Hughes and Chloe Lincoln.
After their 2-2 draw with Perth Glory to open the A-League Women’s season, Canberra will be wanting to hit the ground running early on in Brisbane and make sure that they can get the three points when it is all said and done.
Above: Canberra United’s Laura Hughes emphasised the importance of her side keeping it tight at the back this weekend. Image: Canberra United.
Laura Hughes opened the media conference by reflecting on last weekend’s draw at home to Perth Glory.
“Yeah, I think we showed promising signs, we were creating lots of chances and unfortunately we couldn’t keep a clean sheet or score as many goals as we wanted.”
In terms of what the side needs to focus on in terms of the Roar, Hughes admitted it’s not just matters on the pitch, but weather conditions that need to be carefully considered.
“I think you know going into any football match, we want to keep a clean sheet, we want to score more goals than them (Brisbane), so I think that’s something that we’ll take into consideration. It’s been pretty cold in Canberra and very hot in Brisbane, so I think that’s something that we’ll have to think about hydrating early and keeping check on our energy levels.”
One of the major things that defined Canberra’s season last time – and indeed that of Saturday’s opponents Brisbane, was the fact that they conceded goals late in matches. Against Perth last weekend, the Capital city side led twice but still only took a point from the game.
“I think obviously we also need to put the goals away and I think in that first half against Perth we could have had three or four goals, which also helps us keep a clean sheet because the other team mentally struggle, you know if they always think they are ahead in the game obviously it’s going to be harder at the back end of the game to keep a clean sheet, so I think keeping that focus at the end of matches, obviously our fitness will keep going up.”
Above: Chloe Lincoln believes her Canberra United team are getting up to speed for the A-League Women ahead of this weekend’s trip to Brisbane Roar. Photo: Canberra United.
Canberra United goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln offered her own thoughts on her side’s opening game of the season.
“I think all things considered it went really well. I know like Laura (Hughes) said we weren’t able to keep a clean sheet or finish some of the chances that we would have liked to but considering such a short pre-season that we’ve had, four weeks, I think the girls really put it all out there and its promising signs for what’s ahead I feel like.”
When pressed on whether she was concerned that more goals could have been conceded as the team twice blew a lead in the game, the young goalkeeper said: “No, I had faith in the girls.
“I think despite the fact that we were possibly running out of legs, you Njegosh’s (Popovich) planned for that and I think we were trying to play smart football as well, and hopefully, we can utilise that in strategy in Brisbane, where we try that and keep the ball more, sort of build up the field instead of countering the counter-attack and all this transition.
“Hopefully, that can help us get through but you know, this season’s a marathon, not a sprint. So Njegosh’s (Popovich) really emphasising that and we’re going to hit peak form soon like Hughesy (Laura Hughes) said and I’m excited to see what that looks like because that was promising signs.”
In terms of specifics needed to combat the threat of Brisbane Roar this weekend, Lincoln emphasised that it is as much about her own team’s conditioning as it about worrying about what Brisbane can do.
“I think there’s obviously things we need to tidy up from an individual perspective, definitely some things that I know I need to do better.
“Its been a long while since a lot of the girls including myself have been playing at this level, so I think for us that’s kind of getting the nerves out and having our first game to sort of see where we are at.”
Chloe Lincoln on Canberra United needing to get up to speed in the A-League Women competition.
“Hopefully now where we know we are at, we can sort of be a bit more safer, take less risk, look to improve those things and hopefully keep clean sheets from now on, fingers crossed, if all goes to plan, so see how we go.”
WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS:
Above: Clare Hunt is a hugely inspirational figure at Western Sydney Wanderers and is the ideal choice as captain for 2022/23. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers.
Western Sydney Wanderers have reported that defender Clare Hunt has been named the club’s captain for the season.
Hunt, who joined the Wanderers at the start of the last campaign, has been a prominent figure in the Red and Black’s A-League Women squad after a number of breakout performances in 2021/22.
The talented defender went on to be named the Wanderers Medal winner for 2022 and was on the bench in the PFA’s Team of the Season in her first season at the club.
Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Kat Smith was proud to name Hunt captain for the upcoming season. “Clare has been an integral part of our pre-season preparations and we are delighted that she has returned to the club for her second season in the Red and Black,” said Smith.
“We have a number of leaders in our squad and Clare is one that upholds our values both on and off the pitch.”
Wanderers new skipper Hunt spoke of the honour she feels to be awarded the armband. “It is a very proud moment in my career to be named the captain of the Wanderers and a responsibility that I am eager to take on,” the defender said.
“I am a player that leads by example and sets high expectations for myself and my teammates. This drive to work hard, perform consistently and win, is something that I pride myself on and seek to instil within the team. There are a number of leaders within this squad so I feel extremely supported and well-equipped to lead this fantastic club.
“We have put in a lot of work this pre-season to make our members and fans proud of the club and look forward to continuing to have the support of the Western Sydney community behind us.”
The Wanderers side kick-off their campaign this Saturday when they take on the Newcastle Jets in Tamworth after receiving the bye in Round One.
WESTERN UNITED:
by Ben Gilby
Above: Mark Torcaso. Image courtesy of Western United F.C
Western United head coach Mark Torcaso told the media today that he expects to have Tyla-Jay Vlajnic available for the first time this weekend when his side travels to face Wellington Phoenix.
“T-J Vlajnic has clearance to play this weekend. There have been complexities…(but) she is ready to go.”
Torcaso has said that all his focus turned to this weekend’s trip to New Zealand to face Wellington Phoenix as soon as the final whistle went on his side’s superb win in their first-ever match against Melbourne Victory.
“We did switch off straight away after the Victory game to focus on Wellington, and we’re hopefully ready for them. We literally moved on from that game straight away. It’s great that we beat the champions though.
“Our focus is to try and get another three points. beating Victory is great. Beating your old employer is good. It was massive for the club, our first game. A massive attendance (2,700).”
In terms of what he expects from the Nix on Saturday, Torcaso highlighted two specific areas. “They have a lot of pace, and are a tricky side. They have the advantage of playing on their home ground which is an advantage for them and the first time we’ve faced that. We need to make sure we’re on our game.”
For Western United, this is the first time that some of their players would have set foot on New Zealand soil, with the additional challenge of getting passports and travel documents sorted ahead of an away match.
“It’s a unique opportunity – some players haven’t experienced it. However, there are experienced players in our squad who can help put. I’m looking forward to it, to be honest. It’s a fantastic stadium and one of the best surfaces in the league.
“It looks like it’s going to be another windy one. Preparation was perfect as we had a windy game last week and a windy training session on Monday!” the United head coach smiled.
In terms of preparations, Torcaso was hugely positive, revealing: “It’s been good. We’ve trained pretty well. We have no additional injuries either. We had three missing last week. T-J is back. The other two – Harriet Withers is out for another week or so and Silver Bell Morris is probably another week away.”
The Western United head coach outlined that he is also managing the load that one of his star signings Chloe Logarzo has in the early stages of her own come back saying: “Chloe wants to play 90, but it is a process we have to follow with her so she follows the goals set with the Matildas (in terms of minutes/loads).”
Above: Aimee Medwin pictured during her time at South Melbourne in the Victoria NPLW. Photo: South Melbourne FC.
Meanwhile, earlier this week, Western United reported that Aimee Medwin has become the first Tasmanian to represent them after signing a scholarship contract.
The Hobart local returns to Australia having played in the American college system, first for the University of Mississippi and most recently for Long Beach State University.
“I am really excited to play alongside such an amazingly talented and motivated group of players and coaches at Western United. The club has been great welcoming me so far and I’m very excited to get into games soon. After finishing College I’m really happy to be returning back to Australia to play and be a part of the club.”
The 23-year-old previously represented Australia at Under-16 level and made her Liberty A-League debut with Melbourne City in the 2018/19 season while playing 69 times in NPLW Victoria for South Melbourne.
The signing further strengthens the link between Tasmania and United, with the Club recently announcing A-League matches will return to the state for the third year running.
Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso said Medwin adds to the list of young talent in the squad who will hope to break through in the Liberty A-League this season.
“Aimee has played at a high level already throughout her young career and I’m pleased that she has committed to continuing her development here with us,” he said.
“Having been a junior international and part of an A-League environment already, she comes from a Division One college program where she has really continued to elevate her game.
“Aimee only adds to our strong presence of young talent here and it is great to have a young girl from Hobart join the Club as we prepare to head over there in January.”
Medwin has joined the squad this week after its 1-0 win over Melbourne Victory in the Club’s first ever Liberty A-League match and will take the No.5 jersey.
Impetus’ Johnathan Stack dialled into Arsenal’s media conference ahead of tonight’s Champions League tie with Juventus in Turin(24/11/22).
Above: Arsenal’s Katie McCabe, who spoke to the media about the massive loss of Beth Mead. Photo: Alamy Stock.
Arsenal are back in action tonight in Italy as they take on Juventus in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
The Gunners are currently top of Group C with two wins from two as they prepare for a massive top-of-the-table clash at Allianz Stadium in Turin.
Ahead of the game, the Gunners have been rocked by the news that star player Beth Mead is likely to miss the rest of the season as it was confirmed on Tuesday that she has ruptured her ACL and is a massive doubt for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the Lionesses.
Speaking ahead of tonight’s game, Katie McCabe reflected upon how the squad has reacted to losing their teammate at an important part of the season saying: “For us as a team, she’s going to be a massive loss, but we’ve got a fantastic medical team around the club, and they’ll be doing their utmost to try and get her back. We’re devastated for her, but she’s got great support in our team, and we’ll be rallying around her for sure.” the Republic of Ireland captain said.
Above: Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall, who has huge respect for tonight’s hosts Juventus. Photo: KNews Media
But now the focus is on cementing the top spot in Group C as a win for Arsenal would open a five-point gap with three games to play.
Head Coach Jonas Eidevall gave his thoughts on Juventus saying: “They’re a very competitive team. I think Juventus as a club in the Women’s Champions League have consistently shown over the past few seasons that they can compete with any team in Europe.
“They’ve been doing very well so we have lots of respect for that. We understand and we’re fully aware that it will take a very good performance from us in order for us to get the result.”
Above:Pride Park’s Summer Evans (blue kit) seen here in action in a previous match, played her first 90 minutes of the season on Sunday for the club. Photo: Pride Park FC.
Pride Park Ladies made the short trip to Ilkeston on Sunday for the Derbyshire FA Women’s County Cup Second Round; their first County Cup game since the semi-final in December 2019 – to face Ilkeston Town Ladies of the East Midlands Regional League – one division above Pride in the football pyramid.
The match, designated the tie of the round by DCFA saw two milestone events – the club’s first County Cup game in three years, and Annie Laight’s 50th appearance for the Pride.
The visitors made a decent start; Tash Allderidge having the first shot of the game – just wide – after five minutes. Both teams were probing and had shots without really troubling either keeper until just after the quarter hour, when Pride almost took the lead.
Summer Evans intercepted a goal kick, heading the ball into the channel to the left of goal and into the path of Beth Jones, who beat the defender, and from the angle of the six-yard box her shot was blocked by the ‘keeper’s foot and deflected into the centre of goal. Hannah Kwiatek running in from the right had her shot blocked by a defender, with the ball falling to Evans who also had two attempts blocked before the ball was cleared.
Ilkeston’s bench saw this as a wake-up call and the hosts responded, starting to have the better of possession and to create openings, and took the lead after 25 minutes, scoring a second after 34 minutes.
There was another very good opportunity for Pride after 40 minutes, when an Annie Laight free-kick from just inside Pride’s half was hit into the right-hand channel for Beth Jones, and her lofted shot hit the foot of the far post.
To rub salt in, Ilkeston scored a third a minute before halftime. They extended their lead seven minutes after the restart, but Pride continued to try to play their game and battled to create openings, and only two minutes later Hannah Kwiatek did well to beat the fullback but couldn’t quite get the connection she wanted and her shot went wide.
Photo: Pride Park in possession at Ilkeston Town on Sunday. Image: Pride Park FC.
Just after the hour Beth Jones worked a little space and hit a dipping left-foot shot which the keeper did well to tip onto the crossbar and over.
Ilkeston had found their range and were proving clinical in front of goal, adding another two within a minute of each other with twenty minutes still to play.
Pride Park were now, literally, playing for pride and continued to push for what would be a deserved consolation goal. With fifteen minutes to go they went close when Tash Allderidge hit a cross-shot from wide on the left and the goalkeeper was unable to hold it, but was able to turn round and grab the ball on the line. Three minutes later Beth Jones beat the last defender and the goalkeeper, but her effort was ruled out for an offence – what the offence was remains a mystery.
Then, only two minutes later, Jones was put through, and in a race for the ball with the keeper it was a dead heat, the ball breaking to Millie Holmes who hit a lofted shot from twenty-five yards that was headed off the line by a recovering defender. Ilkeston added another with five minutes to play.
Despite conceding seven goals, the defence actually stood up to the challenge and defended well and behind them, Jade Howell showed good positioning and handling. There was no sense of deflation in the Pride camp after the game – more a sense that they had done themselves justice against higher league opposition and there were both positives, and things to learn, from the game.
Ilkeston’s quality on a very fast superb 4G surface proved just a little too much for Pride in the end but they competed well, and showed their own qualities in spells, without getting the roll of the ball or the rub of the green – although the scoreline did feel a little harsh after going so close on several occasions.
The result of this tie means Pride Park now enter the DCFA Womens Plate competition, and wait to see who they are drawn against and when the tie will be.
For the latest in our series of Midweek Dub interviews with A-League Women players and coaches, Melbourne City’s Leticia McKenna spoke exclusively to Impetus’ Jonathan Tay about how City are aiming to return to the Grand Final this season and her own growth as a player and individual (23/11/22).
Above: Leticia McKenna in possession for Melbourne City against cross-town rivals Melbourne Victory last season. Photo: Melbourne City.
From both a team and individual perspective, Melbourne City’s Leticia McKenna is raring to go in this season’s A-League Womens competition.
Though City finished second at the end of the regular fixtures in 2021/22, they were eliminated at the Preliminary Final stage, during an injury-hit first season in Sky Blue for McKenna. This season though, she’s feeling back to 100 percent.
“We’re even more hungry than last season,” McKenna emphasised. “We’re fired up, ready to get started. We want to win, that’s our goal – there’s really nothing less that we’ll settle for.”
In this one-on-one chat, McKenna delved into a number of topics, including the Sky Blues’ promising run last time out, the eager anticipation for 22/23, her own game, her coach Rado Vidosic (speaking prior to today’s announcement about his interim role with City’s men’s team), and her goals she’s looking at for this next year and beyond.
LAST SEASON
Above: Leticia McKenna (right) with Hannah Wilkinson. Photo: Melbourne City.
In 2021/22, Melbourne City were impressive in finishing as runners-up by just two points to Sydney FC at the end of the regular season, displaying a distinct possession-based style of football.
“A lot of girls really stood up and became key players for us, and that’s something we’ll continue working on this year,” McKenna said. “We want to hold the ball, we want teams to press us and we want to control the tempo. We’re a very attacking team once we go forward, so for us it’s about retaining the ball and picking the right moments to score goals.”
Whilst they nominally lined up in a 3-4-3 formation for the majority of the season, McKenna was quick to point out their focus on style of play over shape, prioritising ball circulation and a high pressing strategy.
“Last season we used a few different formations and I think that’s something we’re able to adapt to. It’s really fun and enjoyable for us to play in and makes it harder for our opponents – that’s something we like to have in our locker, having multiple playing styles. It’s about keeping the ball, moving it as quickly as possible, and making the opposition run.”
It's the Hannah Wilkinson show!
The Kiwi international scores her second goal after some lovely build up play from Rebekah Stott and a terrific assist from Leticia McKenna.@MelbourneCity are almost there!
Despite the second-place finish, it was a relatively disappointing finish to the season however, losing consecutive games in the finals series, to usual suspects Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory.
“For us I think it’s those one-percenters,” McKenna reflected. “That’s what we’re working on in training. Those things that let us down in key moments, we’re really refining from the start, and I think once we nail these it’ll be evident in how we play.”
“As a collective maybe just a little bit of a lapse in certain times during the game, and I think if we defend and attack as a unit altogether it will be quite hard to break through this season.”
THIS SEASON
“We have a lot of drive and hunger, especially coming so close last year and falling short just at the end.”
With a somewhat settled squad heading into the new season, McKenna’s hope is that building on City’s familiarity with principles of play will take them that one step further.
“For us, when we have the ball, it’s about that composure – we get around each other so that we’re supporting options,” the attacking midfielder summed.
“It’s just about backing yourself and having confidence on the ball. We have phenomenal players who can change a game at any point, so it’s about being an option and keeping possession.”
As mentioned in our 22/23 A-League preview though, whilst City were the most ball-dominant side last season, they were only a middling fifth in goal-creating and shot-creating actions, and fourth in expected goals.
Above: Melbourne City’s chance creation in 21/22. Source: Fbref
McKenna noted, “[This season] it’s about getting forward and scoring as many goals as possible – we want to be an attacking team. I think it’s in the final third where the magic happens: what can we create, how many chances can we make.”
Key to that improvement is the bolstering of Melbourne City’s squad with the addition of carefully-chosen new signings, particularly in forward areas.
“They’ve rocked up and absolutely fitted straight into our team. The way they present themselves and their standards are extremely high,” said an impressed McKenna.
“It’s really great to have them all a part of this season. They’re all very exciting players, and they’ll be key for us moving forward.”
HER COACH
Above: Melbourne City’s Rado Vidosic, who Leticia McKenna greatly respects. Photo: Melbourne City.
A big drawcard for a number of these moves was seemingly City’s head coach, Rado Vidosic, who has today been announced as the club’s men’s team interim head coach. The likes of Australian international Karly Roestbakken, New Zealander Katie Bowen, and Young Matilda Bryleeh Henry all made note of the experienced boss as a key reason for them joining.
McKenna, speaking before the announcement today, emphasised the impact Vidosic had on the squad. “Rado, just the way he presents himself, he’s so accommodating and I feel he knows how to get the best out of us.”
Whilst at present it is unknown how long the Croatian-born coach will be concentrating on City’s A-League Men’s side, it is clear that the influence he had and the esteem he is held in by his players is immense.
“Whether that’s training or off the field, he’s very caring, and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to football. The way he conducts himself on the field as well, he sees the future for us, he believes a lot in who he brings aboard, and he’s just a phenomenal person.
“I’ve learned a lot from him, [even] in my first few weeks I was there last season, learning a new playing style as well, with our “10s” and how we go forwards,” the youngster said.
“The way he looks after us and what he shares is something I’m very grateful for because I feel like he’s taken me to another level with my football; I’m developing in ways I wouldn’t have in the past.”
HER SEASON
Artwork: Melbourne City
At her signing announcement before the start of the 21/22 A-League season, McKenna declared, “I want to be challenged and continue to be pushed outside my comfort zone”. She certainly got what she asked for; not only beginning life in a new city and at a highly competitive club, but having to deal with injuries and pain all season long.
“Definitely being pushed outside my comfort zone in this environment all the time – with such a high level squad, [there is] a lot of competition for positions,” McKenna reviewed. “Being away from home without family, living with your teammates is the best; there’s always something new, but it definitely does get challenging sometimes.”
“I was carrying niggles last season, a stress fracture that lingered through the season. Again, in the last six months I’ve had a few more stress reactions which seemed to be back. But coming into this season, I’ve had really good support staff and a medical team – they’ve been looking after me.”
She’s looking forward to playing refreshed and unencumbered, continuing to display the talent, vision and ball control that was evident in parts, during her first campaign with City.
“For me it’s just been about getting back from injury, the last six months especially have been draining mentally and physically. I’m just excited to be able to get back on the training field and work my way up through match minutes, just getting back on the ball, getting more touches in training, and working on parts of my game I want to improve for the season.
Above: Leticia McKenna has opened her A-League Women season by making her 50th appearance in the competition. Photo: Melbourne City.
With the departure of Football Fern Rebekah Stott to England, one area where Melbourne City are looking slightly thin is in the centre of the park. McKenna has split her time across both midfield and forward positions, and despite her injuries, saw her role and minutes increase throughout last season. This time round, she’s looking to step up even further for her side, wherever she is required.
“This season I’ll definitely still be up in the attacking half whether that is in midfield or slightly higher. It will be a bit of interchange with different playing styles – it’s good to be versatile in our playing system. For me my best asset is in midfield, playing balls, and vision. I think we have a very attacking squad, so it’s very exciting for us.
“It’s about being attacking, going forward, getting on the ball as much as possible, and creating chances and opportunities, I think that’s something really fundamental for our team.”
Creative profile for Forwards & AM in W-League
•Cortnee Vine out in a world of her own & can dribble past & play incisive balls behind. •Paige Satchell & Lisa de Vanna prefer to dribble •Leticia McKenna prefers to play the incisive ball
“It always is a confidence boost when you’re in and around the starting eleven consistently, and I know for me injuries were a big part of last season. So it’s been really good to find rhythm again and get back on the field [in preseason]. As a team moving forward we’re such a talented squad, so it’ll be really exciting to see what happens.”
HER GOALS
Above: Leticia McKenna gets a shot away during her 2020/21 season at Brisbane Roar. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
In the short term, the 20-year-old isn’t looking too far ahead; simply getting back to playing football with a full bill of health is the first priority.
“My goal this season is just to get on the park as much as possible,” McKenna tempered. “Work my way up through match minutes and really just enjoy being back out there. It’s been a long six months to 12 months of missing action, being in and out.”
Those stress reactions meant she devastatingly missed out on the U20 World Cup in Costa Rica, though she was in and around training camps in the months leading up to it. Seeing the experience over there has made her think about her own international future, as well as potentially playing abroad down the track.
“Unfortunately injuries held me back from [the U20 World Cup]. But it was good to be a part of the camps when I was able to play. They did so well when they went over, and it was still quite special to be part of that story and journey.
“Looking forward, my goal is to eventually play overseas one day. Something that I’m starting to look into and do a bit more research on before grabbing at something – it again depends on my body and hopefully staying injury free. Matildas is always something you strive for, but there are steps before that, and that is playing consistently, playing well, and ensuring I’m in the best possible position.”
McKenna, like a lot of fans of the game, is hyped for the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She’s also looking forward to pitching herself against a number of homecoming Matildas in the A-League this season, and feels having the biggest tournament in our backyard will only further grow the women’s game. The Perth native recalled some of her own experiences coming up in Western Australia, with a certain green-and-gold captain part of that journey.
“It’s really exciting that they’ll be on home soil, and to see that there are Matildas coming back to play A-League Women’s this year. I think it will be great for them, and great for the crowd and atmosphere. When they’re here there’s more excitement and drive. You always want to be at your best, but I think it’s great what they bring to the league and it’s standard.”
THE GAME IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Above: Leticia McKenna in action for home state club Perth Glory during the 2019/20 season. Photo: Perth Glory.
“For me coming through the ranks in WA (Western Australia), was very exciting. At that point, I was lucky enough to play with Sam Kerr, and she brought in some amazing internationals that really grew Perth Glory I felt.
“WA is growing, it’s getting better, there’s a lot more youth coming through the ranks and getting into Junior and Young Matildas camps, which is amazing to see. There’s a lot more time going into developing young women over there and I think eventually WA will start producing more [players].
This is what makes Sam Kerr so great. She was so proud of the 17 yr old Leticia McKenna’s performance in the semi-final. Such a rare humility and leadership in stars on the global stage like her. pic.twitter.com/wBvv2PgTCt
“Sam has always been a role model for me from a young age; playing with her, watching her, the way she is off the park, she is just amazing. There are aspects I would love to have from her, and there’s things I try to copy and aspire to be like.
“For me, [playing in the A-League] was definitely hard at the start but I quickly learned you have to grow up quite fast in these environments and that’s something I really enjoyed; getting to meet new people, the football and the memories have all been amazing and it’s something you can never take for granted. I finally feel like I’m quite comfortable at City, but still being pushed, developing me both on and off the field.”
Each week this season, Impetus’ Ben Gilby will be grabbing an exclusive chat with either a member of the Perth Glory playing squad or head coachAlex Epakis. To launch the series, he caught up with captain Tash Rigby ahead of last weekend’s season kick-off (22/11/22).
Above: Tash Rigby in possession against Sydney FC last season. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
“Sof(ia Sakalis) has been flying, Alana (Jancevski) has been on FIRE in front of goal, and Bella (Wallhead) and Hana (Lowry) have definitely been standing out! Abbey Green has come in and absolutely smashed training!”
Tash Rigby on how excited she is about the form of Perth Glory’s young guns in training.
BG: What were the focuses on during pre-season?
TR: There was heavy focus on conditioning and Alex (Epakis, head coach) and the staff worked hard to ensure that every player has a clear understanding of their role and our playing style.
BG: Tell us about some of the new arrivals – what have you noticed about what they’ve added so far?
TR: They have all brought a new level of intensity, quality, and experience to the squad, not to mention they are all incredible people off the field.
BG:All of last season’s young guns are back and all of them had massive seasons in the NPL. How have you seen players such as Sofia Sakalis, Abbey Green, Hana Lowry, Bella Wallhead, and Alana Jancevski develop since they’ve been at Perth and any increased additions to their games you’ve noticed?
TR: They have all come in firing, it is evident that they have all definitely worked really hard in the off-season and have definitely come in on another level. Sof has been flying, Alana has been on FIRE in front of goal, and Bella and Hana have definitely been standing out! Abbey Green has come in and absolutely smashed training!
Above: Alana Jancevski – “on fire” in training, according to Tash Rigby. Photo: Estybs Photo via Perth Glory.
BG: Perth are going to have regular home games for the first time in three seasons – potentially how massive is that in terms of an advantage?
TR: We are so excited to have home games, it will be incredible to be able to have our members and fans supporting us as well as our incredible friends and family. It is also beneficial to us to just be able to be based at home from a recovery, routine, and support perspective!
BG: The team have all sorts of attacking options, but tell us about our defensive set up – the loss of Deborah-Ann de la Harpe, whilst for understandable reasons, is a big one. How do you see us from a defensive perspective?
TR: Losing DA was a big loss, but we are proud to have played our part in her journey. I think we are strong and have a good balance of experience and young talent. With the experience of Kim Caroll and her football mind combined with Liz Anton who has come in at the top of her game and Bella who has bought a new level of strength and athleticism to the backline, I think we will be solid.
BG: We have a new team this season in the competition, Western United, who have brought in some impressive players, how do you see them going?
TR: It is super exciting to see a new team enter the league. With signings like TJ (Vlajnic), (Jessica) McDonald, and (Chloe) Logarzo, I think they will definitely be competitive and shouldn’t be underestimated.
BG: Given the advantage of having home games again, a seriously strong squad – is Finals football the expectation among the squad?
TR: I think after just missing out on finals last year, there is definitely a fire in our belly and so we are all doing everything we can individually and collectively to put us in the best position to reach finals.
Above: Pointing the way ahead – Perth Glory captain Tash Rigby. Photo: Perth Glory.
The Melbourne Victory goalkeeper spoke to the media today aboutthe weekend’s loss at Western United and this weekend’s Grand Final re-match at Sydney FC. Ben Gilby reports for Impetus (22/11/22).
It’s been a tough fixture schedule for Melbourne Victory to open their latest defence of the A-League Women title. A trip to a fired-up Western United for a derby clash in that side’s inaugural match in the competition, and now a trip to Sydney to face the team who Jeff Hopkins’ side has defeated in the last two Grand Finals.
However, goalkeeper Casey Dumont told the media today that the team go into this weekend’s game clear about what they need to do in order to get their bid to win a third straight title on track – and they are determined to perform even better to do so.
Reflecting on Saturday’s defeat to Western United, Dumont said: “We have reviewed the game. A lot of it was our own individual mistakes. We have high standards, but we didn’t bring it for the whole 90 minutes. There were good patches from us, but when we switched off, we really switched off.
“We need to learn from that and grow. Credit to Western United. We had a lot of chances, but we did the pretty soccer, but didn’t win the game.”
Above: Casey Dumont has many seasons of experience in the A-League Women and knows that her Melbourne Victory team has what it takes to bounce back from Saturday’s loss. Photo: Shutterstock.
Whilst the personnel in the Victory defence is changed from last season, with a number of new arrivals, the 30-year-old shot-stopper does not see the need for any gelling with the players in front of her. Indeed, they are all faces she knows well, which bodes well for the club to build a solid backline in double-quick time.
“I’ve worked with all the players who are there (in defence) before – like Jess Nash – I was with her in New South Wales for the Future Matildas program.
“Kayla (Morrison) – before she did her knee, I had one game with her, but also all of that pre-season when we played some matches. Nat (Tatham) and I are both Queenslanders but we have always missed opportunities with each other, and KK (Elise Kellond-Knight) – I played with her back in Brisbane Roar days. We have connections that are already there. It’s just about building as a group.”
With Jeff Hopkins having outlined to his squad what is needed to right the wrongs of Saturday, Dumont is fully focused on getting a statement-making win at Sydney FC this weekend – and she knows that in order to achieve that, her team will have to win battles all over the pitch at Cromer Park.
“Playing Sydney will always be tough and comes down to who wants it more. We both have something to prove, Sydney lost (in Round One) as well.”
“Sydney v Victory is always one of those big games – mentally, physically. It’s about bragging rights. It’s always a close game, always down to those one percenters. Two seasons ago it was down to the last minute. It’s always like ‘Oh! Did you watch the Sydney against Victory game?!’ “
Above: The last time Casey Dumont and her Melbourne Victory team played against Sydney FC was the 2021/22 Grand Final. Photo: Guardian.
Whilst Victory has tasted success against Sydney FC in the last two Grand Finals, the goalkeeper, who was brought up on the Gold Coast, has lost none of the hunger for more silverware. Indeed, Dumont wants to win more than ever this season, and knows exactly what her side needs to do in order to also wrestle the Premier’s Plate away from the Harbour City side.
“There are a few things that we’ve pointed out that we want. Consistency is the main one. If you look at last season, the schedule threw us, but we want consistent wins. We need to be pinching those three points when we can, and react from a loss.
“Back-to-back-to-back (winning three straight Grand Finals) is the main thing. Having the (Premier’s) Plate as well is a big thing as Sydney seem to get it every time. Everyone will come to us saying ‘We want to beat the champions.’ Well, we want to be the champions.”
As we head into World Cup year, the Melbourne Victory goalkeeper revealed that she’s not immediately looking to add to her three senior caps for the Matildas. Instead, she has learned to live life in the now and appreciate what she already has at present.
“I’ve learned to live in the moment. What will be will be. Your path can change very quickly. I’m very thankful for the opportunities I’ve had. Whoever gets the opportunities (to play in the World Cup) I hope they grab it with both hands. It can get taken away from you. I’m positive about what the World Cup can bring, but I need to focus on the now.”
The now is Saturday’s trip to Cromer Park to face Sydney FC. It’s going to be quite some battle.
Above: Ellie Dorey celebrates for the Dons at Craven Cottage yesterday. Photo: Tom Smeeth.
AFC Wimbledon kicked off the Capital Cup campaign in style with a 3-1 win against Fulham FC at Craven Cottage. A brace from Ellie Dorey and a second-half goal from Ashlee Hincks was enough to ensure the Dons came out on top on a memorable day.
The impressive crowd of 3,181 were silenced early when Ellie Dorey opened the scoring not even five minutes into the game as she got on the end of an expertly placed Gloria Siber pass.
Wimbledon set out to dominate the game from that moment. The hosts had some opportunities going forward, but were kept at bay by the defensive line and goalkeeper Faye Baker. The Dons deservedly doubled their lead five minutes before the halftime break, when Dorey yet again got on the end of a fine pass, this time from Ashlee Hincks.
Immediately after the goal Dorey, had to be substituted with hamstring issues, and was replaced by Ella Newman, making her debut for the side. In the dying seconds of the first half, Fulham pulled a goal back, thanks to former Don Georgia Heasman.
The second half was an even affair, with both sides creating more and more opportunities. Fulham sent a few balls into the stands but also had an attempt cleared off the line by Amy Taylor.
Wimbledon also charged forward, but struggled to show the clinical finishing which has been a key element in recent displays. With 20 minutes to go, Hincks got on the scoresheet after a Taylor masterclass down the right wing, effectively finishing off the game.
After the game Dons captain Kelly Highman said “Fair play to Fulham, they put everything into that game today and made it difficult for us, and we made it difficult for ourselves but we came out with the win so that is all that matters.”
AFC Wimbledon Manager Kevin Foster reflected: “The early goal helped, it settled us in ways, but almost spurred them on at times. I thought they made it difficult for us but thankfully we had some quality in key areas at key times which made the difference.”
The Dons are next in action on Sunday 27th November as our Vitality Women’s FA Cup campaign continues against Billericay Town at Carshalton Athletic FC with a 3pm kickoff.
Last season, Impetus‘ weekly awards for the A-League Women proved to be a real hit with our audience, and they’re back for 2022/23.
Each week the writing and photography team covering the competition for us will nominate a player, coach, and event of the week. We’ll keep a tally of the player and coach votes as the weeks go by and at the end of the home and away season announce our winners for 2022/23.
Last season’s player of the year was Cortnee Vine of Sydney FC, with Perth Glory’s Alex Epakis taking coach of the year. Here’s this season’s first winners:
Player of the Week:
Above: Cote Rojas (centre) put in a sensational performance that saw four of our seven votes available go in her favour for Player of the Week. Photo: Melbourne City.
KIERAN YAP: It has to be Cote Rojas. She was only signed to Melbourne City days before the team travelled to face Wellington. The Chilean trickster scored one, earned a penalty, and set up another. Nobody else was near her this round.
BEN GILBY: Cote Rojas had her magic wand out and flourished it with style at the start of the second half for Melbourne City at Wellington Phoenix. When the Chilean is in that type of form she is unstoppable. Mazy runs, outrageous skill, pin-point passing, and deadly finishing. The A-League Women is always a better place for her presence.
JONATHAN TAY: Maria Rojas produced a stunning performance in Melbourne City’s first game of the season, made even more incredible by the fact she’s only been with the team for about a week. The Chilean striker dazzled against an overmatched Wellington Phoenix backline, notching a goal and an assist. Salient throughout the game, Rojas’ magnetic ball control and tricky movement were on display for the first three goals of the 4-1 blowover: laying the opener on a plate for Bryleeh Henry, dancing her way through the defence for her own tally, before winning a penalty for the third.
BEN CAREY: Annalee Grove – It’s so hard to go past Pollicina’s two goals and an assist, but in my opinion, Grove making five saves and keeping a clean sheet against Sydney FC, probably the most offensive team in the league, is even more impressive. Honorable mentions to Shea Connors and Grace Maher for excellent first-round performances too.
RYAN MILLER-WOODS: Despite only being an injury replacement player for Hannah Wilkinson at Melbourne City, how Rojas played against Wellington truly made herself known as well as making a quick-fire impact early on in the second half, really showed that she should be a permanent member of the City squad (although her Cypriot parent club will have a thing to say about that!) For however long she will be playing this season, she will be crucial to Melbourne City if this performance was anything to go by.
KIERAN CHEA: Sydney Cummings. Her presence in the air and strong tackles helped ensure that Western United got their historical debut win.
JOHNATHAN STACK: Shea Connors of Brisbane Roar. She played her part in both her team’s goals and caused the Jets’ defence countless problems.
Coach of the Week:
Above: Western United coach Mark Torcaso. Image courtesy of Western United F.C.
KIERAN YAP: Adrian Stenta was brave to substitute proven stars at Adelaide in favour of rising hopefuls. But it paid off when Emilia Murray scored the winning goal. On paper, Adelaide did not have the depth on the bench that Sydney FC did, but the 1-0 win proves otherwise.
BEN GILBY: Can’t go beyond Mark Torcaso at Western United. A brand new team come together containing some of his Calder United NPLW Victoria stars and some other excellent signings take on the defending champions in their first-ever match and gets the win.
JONATHAN TAY: Adelaide United have big expectations going into the season, having brought back the majority of their squad, including the dangerous forward duo of Fiona Worts and Chelsie Dawber. Against Sydney FC, they were still the underdogs on paper, but head coach Adrian Stenta’s charges managed to frustrate the reigning Premiers all afternoon. They defended solidly enough, with Stenta asking his midfield to tightly man-mark, preventing easy passage through the centre of the pitch. Adelaide then managed to pull off a classic smash-and-grab, with substitute Emilia Murray popping up in the 88th minute to head home the winner, laying down an early marker for the top four hopefuls.
BEN CAREY: Mark Torcaso (Western United) – Leading an expansion team to win their first match against the reigning champions is an incredible achievement.
RYAN MILLER-WOODS: In place of father Rado, who was unable to take charge in Wellington due to illness, it felt almost like nothing had been changed as Dario Vidošić for his sides impressive opening win against Wellington Phoenixslotted himself perfectly into the role. Whatever was said by him to the team in the half-time break worked as Melbourne City really showed their quality against Wellington in the second half with how they changed the perspective of the match in a blink of an eye.
KIERAN CHEA: Western United’s Mark Torcaso capped off a great start to the season with a win against the reigning ALW champions
JOHNATHAN STACK: Dario Vidošić for stepping in at the last moment to lead Melbourne City to an impressive opening win against Wellington Phoenix in the absence of his father.
Event Of The Week:
Above: A historic game for Wellington Phoenix yesterday for all sorts of reasons. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
KIERAN YAP: Aleks Sinclair’s arrival on the pitch for Western United drew a bigger cheer than the first goal of their season. Sinclair is a Calder United legend and her adulation was an encouraging sign that the supporters have crossed over to the A-League Women’s. It was also recognition for what she means to Victorian football.
BEN GILBY: After an entire season based out of New South Wales, finally Wellington Phoenix could play the first home game in their history. The first ever game of professional women’s club football played in New Zealand, the first A-League Women match to be played outside of Australia and a record crowd for a stand-alone home and away season game as well, 5,213 – all factors that made this a historic event.
JONATHAN TAY: After a whole season stricken by Covid lockdowns and travel restrictions keeping them in Australia, the Wellington Phoenix finally played their first real home game. It was a history-making moment for the Phoenix, hosting the first-ever professional women’s football game in New Zealand, and at the same time breaking the record attendance for a standalone A-League Women’s match. The pōwhiri , a traditional Maori welcome, led both Wellington and Melbourne City sides onto the field, with the mayor of Wellington and the Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand part of a crowd of 5,213. The final scoreline could not put a dampener on the significance and emotion of the occasion.
BEN CAREY: The Wellington Phoenix corner in the 83rd minute that saw a sympthony of headers and failed clearances by Melbourne City and eventuated in a high curling shot from Ava Pritchard that deflected off Torpey and past James in goals to score The Phoenix’s first goal of the season.
RYAN MILLER-WOODS: Even though it wasn’t the result that they would have wanted going into the match, the fact that Wellington Phoenix were able to play not only at home in New Zealand for the first time but in front of a record crowd for a regular season match in the A-League Women as well was momentous. Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come and that from a Wellington perspective, more people come to support them in both the build-up to New Zealand co-hosting next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
KIERAN CHEA: Western United v Melbourne Victory. A great crowd at City Vista was further solidified by a fantastic game culiminating in Western United’s first-ever game and win in the ALW
JOHNATHAN STACK: Wellington Phoenix v Melbourne City for breaking the attendance record of a stand-alone game in the Liberty A-League.
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