Above: Action from last season’s game between Melbourne City and Wellington Phoenix. Photo: Daniel Pockett.
THE GAME
Wellington Phoenix vs. Melbourne City, 1:00 pm AEST/2am UK, Sunday 20 November, Sky Stadium, Wellington.
THE CONTEXT
Above: Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic. Photo: AP.
At the dawn of a new season, hope springs eternal.
All clubs start on the same level playing field; no team yet to kick a ball in earnest, nor face up to a midfield worth a combined 136 Matildas caps. For Melbourne City, reality hits this Sunday, as they travel across the ditch to face the Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand to open their 2022/23 A-League Women’s campaign.
The biggest question for City to answer this season: are they true title contenders?
“We remember last season; we know what we want this season,” striker Hannah Wilkinson pronounced at the A-League launch on Wednesday. “Our whole team, we had some high expectations, and we didn’t quite achieve them. So it certainly feels like unfinished business.”
Last season, City played a pleasing-on-the-eye, passing-heavy brand of football, led by veteran coach Rado Vidosic. However, though they were runners-up for the premiership, their young side fell short against both Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory in the finals series, missing out on the Grand Final. That unfinished business will likely lead through the same two unyielding obstacles of Sydney and Victory this time round as well.
Whilst a number of the squad have returned this season, City continue to rely on youth (with an average age of 22.8 years), and time will tell if they have enough experience and endurance to last the course.
“We’re going to try to do our best of course,” Vidosic said at his pre-match press conference. “Who’s going to win it? It’s very hard to predict right now; I think Sydney FC would be one of the favourites again, Melbourne Victory have recruited quite smartly as well. Western United, we played them a couple weeks ago, they’ve got a World Cup winner in their team – they looked very good.
“I think this season [the standard] is going to be a little bit better than what it was last year, which is great. If we can keep on improving our league, I think that’s the main thing – and we’re going to try our best to be there at the end.”
We won’t get answers to all questions straight away, but Sunday’s game provides a softer opening for City, against a Phoenix side who, on paper at least, look to still have an inferior squad. It will be a prime opportunity to see whether this group can continue to maintain Vidosic’s tactical demands for aggressive pressing and calm ball composure, and how the new signings are integrated into the side.
Above: Melbourne City’s Hannah Wilkinson (far left) won’t be able to take to the field in her native New Zealand this weekend due to injury. Photo: Melbourne City.
Most of the recent recruits have travelled with Americans Emina Ekic and Julia Grosso coming in alongside Young Matildas starlets Bryleeh Henry and Daniela Galic. Ex-Sydney FC player Maria Rojas is another welcome addition following news which broke this week that Wilkinson will miss the first month of the season with a quad injury, joining Holly McNamara who’s out long-term with an ACL injury.
Further back, intrigue will surround who steps up to fill the hole in midfield left by Rebekah Stott’s departure. New Zealander Katie Bowen injects a defensive stability, whilst City will be hoping for further internal improvement from the likes of Leah Davidson, Leticia McKenna and Darcey Malone. Karly Roestbakken, who battled injuries throughout last term, will unfortunately also begin this season out of action (foot).
“We’re absolutely firing to try and achieve those goals that we set out,” Wilkinson said. “The core group of players are back, so it’s like we’re kind of picking up from where we left off, but pushing ourselves a little bit harder, to try and really get what we want to achieve.”
We will see City play a small part in a bit of A-League history; taking on the Phoenix in what will be their first proper home game in Wellington, and the first Women’s game hosted outside of Australia in the domestic competition.
Wellington, for their part, will hope to continue to build on the positivity engendered during a difficult, inaugural season. Having been forced to use Wollongong as a home base last year, where they earned just a single point, they’ll be relieved to finally have the comfort of a Kiwi crowd. They showed signs of late improvement, winning two of their last four matches to close out 21/22.
They are unfortunately the only team that does not in fact start on the same level playing field, continuing to be hindered by the inequitable rule which counts Australian-born players towards their foreign quota of five players. Internationals Betsy Hassett and Paige Satchell have however been drafted in to boost the seniority within the team, though goalkeeping captain LIly Alfield will miss their opening fixture, still recovering from knee surgery.
Speaking about the game, Vidosic added, “It’s about a four-hour flight, the length is probably similar to Perth. I think last season we didn’t travel to Perth, so for some of these girls it’ll be the first time they need to use their passports, that’s a good experience. We’ll see how things go, it’s an early morning training in Wellington, but the good thing is we’re playing in a beautiful stadium – apparently they’re going to have a good crowd as well, so I think it’s going to be a cracking game.
“When you’re playing in front of a big home crowd, it’s actually more pressure on you (the home team). Some of our girls played at the (Under-20) World Cup in Costa Rica, in front of 22,000, and did really well, so it’s not that they’ve never faced anything like that.
“I think the pressure is equal, I don’t think the players will have that on their mind when they go out to play. Our experienced girls will help the younger less experienced ones if there are any problems.”
A PLAYER TO WATCH
Above: Rhianna Pollicina in action against Adelaide United last season. Photo: Melbourne City.
Rhianna Pollicina had a standout season in 2021/22. She contributed seven goals and three assists and provided the most shot-creating and goal-creating actions of any City player.
She thrived as one of the two “number 10s” in Vidosic’s 3-4-3 formation; not only key in creating chances for her side, but also in Melbourne City’s high-pressing strategy.
She may be one of City’s only familiar faces in the forward areas for Sunday’s game, so the 25-year-old will hope to showcase consistent form to open her sophomore year in Sky Blue.
A STAT
Bryleeh Henry had a dismal last season with Western Sydney Wanderers. A promising forward in the Young Matildas squads, she was mired in the gloom of a seemingly rudderless Wanderers side which finished second-last just ahead of Wellington.
Henry was presented with chances worth a measly 1.6 expected goals (xG) from 11 games, including nine starts. She will have been disappointed with just one goal from the penalty spot to show for the sum total of her campaign.
Above: Bryleeh Henry, a key signing for City, seen here in action for Western Sydney Wanderers last season. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
By comparison, Wilkinson was second in the golden boot race, with 12 goals from chances worth 9.0 xG. Henry will be hoping for a similar City bump, plying her trade in a more cohesive and competent squad.
“We tried to bring her in a few years ago, but she decided to stay at Western Sydney. This year when her contract was up, she reached out, and it was very easy to bring her in,” Vidosic added on Friday. “We worked together for the [under-20] World Cup…She’s doing really well, so I can’t wait to see how she’s going to go in the game on Sunday.”
A QUOTE
“It’s a bit silly of me,” Wilkinson lamented on her injury. “I just went straight in; too hard, too soon after my Covid infection which was a bit too much for my body.
“When I came back here, I still had a lot of quad pain from not training and being sick for a while, and just managed to pull or strain my quad a little bit. It’s going well, I’m definitely through the worst of it. Back on the pitch doing more specific stuff, so yeah, getting past it.”
The Football Fern is expected to be out of action for a month.
THE OPPOSITION
Three questions with Denise Duffy and Jonathon Haggar, part of the Flight of the Nix, a Wellington Phoenix supporters group. The Phoenix are hoping for a crowd of about 10,000 for the first home game in the club’s history.
Wellington will make history this Sunday, being the first club to host a game in the A-League Women’s outside of Australia. How are you feeling about finally being able to see the Phoenix playing at their actual home ground (and in their actual home country!) in Wellington, New Zealand?
Denise: I think New Zealand is switching more and more on to women’s sports. For long term fans of the game it’s thrilling and a bit of a relief that there is professional [women’s] football in this country. I think you will see some tears at the opening match for sure. And do tune in. No country does opening ceremonies quite like the Kiwis – it should be beautiful. Our Flight of the Nix crew will be there.
Making their debut in the A-League competition, there were obviously very few expectations for Wellington last season. What are the club hoping to achieve as they commence their sophomore year?
Denise: When we spoke with new coach Natalie Lawrence her response was realistic. They want to be there in the playoffs at the end season. Of course our fans and certainly these athletes want more. Here’s their dilemma: if they bring in high calibre athletes from abroad, it is at the sacrifice of a Kiwi spot. While other teams are stacking their rosters with short-term deals, the Phoenix are not going to do this.
Their commitment is to develop future Ferns. They have already been successful at this. New Zealand will continue to be super patient and supportive of this team and this approach. I will say, winning is addictive, it draws more fans, it creates confidence. Fans are hoping and expecting this team to continue to gel and run through brick walls for this coach. If we see that, they are bound to win some.
This offseason, there have been a number of new signings, re-signings, and five of the squad who were selected for the New Zealand Football Ferns’ recent friendlies. Who are the players we should be keeping an eye on right out the gate?
Jonathon: I’m tipping Michaela Robertson for the team’s golden boot. She is a prolific goal-scoring machine. She’s been out of professional circles for a while but she is going to be an absolute blast to watch. Milly Clegg won’t start many games but is a super reliable sub. Very young at 17, but has future star potential written all over her. She played in the U17s and U20s World Cup this year, and is another prolific goal-scoring machine. She is super football smart, controls her body well around the pitch, and has phenomenal football IQ.
Paige Satchell was at Sydney FC and wasn’t getting many minutes but has come to the Nix to push for a Ferns starting position. Lots of pace, excellent ball control, strong physically. Claudia Cicco is an up-and-coming Matilda, playing for the Australian U20s squad, and is a fierce defender. She is no pushover and takes her role in the back line extremely seriously. As an understudy to Kate Taylor and Mackenzie Barry, she is going to have to work hard to make the starting squad but Claudia has got the ambition and talent.
Above: Adelaide United head coach Adrian Stenta speaking to the media today. Photo provided to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Adelaide United are focussed on going even further into Finals football this season beginning with a home game with many people’s favourites Sydney FC this weekend.
As they faced the media today, head coach Adrian Stenta and captain Isabel Hodgson outlined their aims for the clash against the Harbour City side and why they are so positive about their prospects over the coming months,
Stenta emphasised the clarity that is present in his team’s preparations: “I think we’re really clear about the way we want to play, I think we’re really clear about the opposition we’re coming up against, and the quality that they’ll bring. But even though it’s been a long off-season, it’s been quite a short pre-season in terms of the time afforded to us to work with all our players and get them all on the same page.
“I think every team is in the same boat, (but) we’re really lucky that we’re still able to lean on a core group of players that have been here consistently in my time here at the club. We’re going to ask them to stand up and lead the way again and we think that the players that we have brought in offer a lot of quality as well. I’m really happy with the way the squad’s come together and how our preparations have come together for Round One.”
Above: Isabel Hodgson is aware that many people have major expectations for Adelaide Unitedmthis season, and she is hungry for success. Photo provided to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Skipper Hodgson spoke about how the club’s successes over the past two years have brought about a shift in people’s perceptions of Adelaide United saying:
“We’re not just the underdogs that could maybe upset teams. We’re kind of (one of) the teams that are meant to win, so there’s a bit of a mindset change.”
Isabel Hodgson, Adelaide United captain.
“All of the girls want to win every game; you can see that training even just in rondos people are yelling at each other because they don’t want to be the last in (the middle). That competitive nature is there and that mindset of winning every challenge is definitely there.
“I think that’s been our mentality for the last couple of years. (It) obviously paid off last year with the finals, but like (Adrian Stenta) mentioned, we kind of finished last year with a bit of a bitter-sweet feeling. We’re happy we made Finals, but that wasn’t enough for us. That’s what we’re looking for this year, to keep doing better and better.”
Ben Gilby, Holly Wright, and Ryan Miller-Woods report on four club’s media conferences today ahead of Round One this weekend (17/11/22).
CANBERRA UNITED:
by Ryan Miller-Woods
Above: Canberra United’s Ellen Gett – ready for Saturday’s season opener against Perth Glory. Photo: Canberra Times.
In preparation for Canberra United’s opening game of the upcoming A-League Women’s season against Perth Glory, the media yesterday heard from players Ellen Gett and Grace Maher.
Asked what to expect from their Western Australian opponents on Saturday, Ellen Gett said: “Perth always brings a physical side, they’re kind of known to be very physical but other than that you know, energy, a generally good team we’ve got to prepare for.”
In terms of what she feels her side need to do in order to ensure they start the campaign with the three points, Gett emphasised the importance of a fast start. “We’ve got to start from the kick-off and we can’t drop, making sure we are on top and we’ll be sweet.”
Canberra were a side who did not quite pick up the amount of points that were expected of them last season, and Gett outlined that if her side can get the little things right, then the big things will take care of themselves.
“The pressure is always there to win, you know, you want three points in every round. It’s such a small season so every point counts and matters but as a team, we are just going to focus on the small things and the team objectives and the three points will follow.”
Above: Grace Maher (right) – knows exactly the benefits that a McKellar Park crowd will bring to her Canberra United team this weekend. Photo: @gracemaher10 Twitter.
Club legend Grace Maher also gave her thoughts to the media and outlined just how important it is that Canberra United start with a home game, with the return of the side to McKellar Park after two years away.
“We love playing at home. It is not only easier on us for our preparation but it is a spiritual thing, a connection to our fans. We want to get the season off and running, and we love doing that at home and we hope that Perth are fearing that and we will take it in our stride.”
Maher feels the added value of Canberra’s renowned vocal home support will be vital against a Perth Glory side who she rates.
“They have retained a lot of their players from last season, but they’ve brought in a few new players. I’ve formally played under Alex Epakis, so I get an idea of what he is doing but he’s grown as a coach, so we are anticipating everything and being prepared for everything but at the same time, we know that if we play our football, then they (Perth) shouldn’t be too much of a worry (for us).
“I think the focus has just been, be ready for anything and everything. We’ve worked a lot on playing and working with our teammates, obviously, we’ve had a bit of disruption with a few of our players out with national team duty and everyone has slid in perfectly if they have to, everyone’s ready for whatever they need to play and however, they need to play, so our focus is just, be ready for anything.”
MELBOURNE VICTORY:
by Holly Wright
Above: Kayla Morrison gives her thoughts on Saturday’s game against Western United to the media today. Image: Melbourne Victory.
After rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament, a little over 11 months ago, Melbourne Victory defender Kayla Morrison is going into this weekend’s opening A-League Women’s against competition newcomers Western United full of positivity and can’t wait to get the season started after spending much of last season watching from the sidelines.
“It’s going to be an amazing game. They (Western United) are going to come out full of energy. It might be their first game, but it’s also our first game and my first game as well. Something we have got to remember is we have been here before. We need to stay calm, stay professional and get the game done.”
She added, “I’m absolutely buzzing. It’s hard because I’m so excited but I’m also nervous. I think it’s okay to be a little bit nervous so hopefully, I can just calm those nerves, bottle up all the energy and just do what I know I can do. I feel like I had a great rehab. I feel strong, I feel mentally in a good place so hopefully, everyone can see that when I’m back on the field.”
The defending champions have had a strong preparation for the season and Morrison believes they are in a great position to win a third consecutive grand final. “No preseason ever goes perfectly according to plan. We obviously had girls leaving for international camp, but it helps us adapt and gives us that extra little edge. Other than that, it’s been pretty smooth. We have got done what we wanted to accomplish as we go into the first game of the season, so I think we are as ready as ever.”
Victory suffered from a lack of defensive strength in depth after Morrison’s unfortunate injury. The 26-year-old commented on manager Jeff Hopkins’ business over the winter and how the new additions have settled in. “I think the vibe this year is different. It’s just as good. It’s just as positive, but for the past two years, we have had a very similar team.
“We have a lot of new girls this year, but they have brought in extra vibes, extra positivity, and have more experience. It’s different team but it’s just as good and I am excited to see what the team will do and throw out on the pitch.”
The American has a great deal of respect for Saturday’s opponents saying: “I think they are going to be a really good team. They have had all their girls the entire preseason. They have had about four or five weeks together, which is very beneficial. They are a team not to overlook, but we will go into every game feeling like it’s a championship game. We are going to put our best foot forward no matter who we are playing.”
PERTH GLORY:
by Ben Gilby
Above: Alex Epakis speaking to the media today. He is hugely enthusiastic about his team’s prospects this season. Image: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis emphasised to the media at Fremantle Oval today that he sees no limit on what his exciting squad can achieve this season.
“Last season we did really well, and hopefully we’ll continue to progress as a team. The players got to play football over the winter whereas I got to stew over what happened last season (when the club missed out on Finals football on goal difference). It gave us time to analyse and assess what we did, and more foundation for this season, where we can improve, and what we can achieve.”
In terms of the key developments he wants to see in his team this season, Epakis highlighted game management in terms of holding onto leads in the face of mounting pressure from the opposition.
“The two games we drew – Canberra with a 3-1 lead and Newcastle Jets with a one-goal lead with five or six minutes to go – we weren’t able to see those games out. We’ve looked at how we can manage and get things in our favour when momentum is not going our way, but we do have a lead. It’s intelligence. (New signings) Rylee (Baisden) and Ella (Mastrantonio) will assist in those moments.”
The return of home-state star Mastrantonio, with experience of playing in England and Italy as well as international football, is, for Epakis, key to assisting his talented young team’s development this season.
“Ella will be invaluable,” he said. “She has already had a big impact on the team these last six weeks. She has so much quality on the field but so much off it too. She’s been great for me. You learn from these experienced players. I wouldn’t be naive enough not to involve Ella in certain conversations. She is a real asset to the Australian game.”
The addition of Mastrantonio and Baisden to an already exciting group of players is something that clearly excites the Perth head coach:
“This is the best team environment I’ve ever worked with. Every player is committed to what we are doing and putting the team above themselves and its a real joy to be part of. There is a real energy and vibe about what we are doing.”
Alex Epakis, Perth Glory head coach.
It’s always hard to gauge the opposition for a first game of the season, but Canberra United, who Perth face on Saturday, are potentially even more of an enigma with a new head coach in Njegosh Popovich and a host of new players coming in. One thing is for sure though, any team with Grace Maher, Nikki Flannery, and Michelle Heyman in it pose a real threat. Yet, for Epakis, it’s all about his own team.
“I think this season all the games will be on fine margins, and we need to make sure that every game we are doing our best for 90 minutes. We can put value into what the opposition are doing, but if we focus on us and our job at hand, anything is possible.”
Above: Perth Glory’s Abbey Green speaking to the media today. Image: Pert Glory.
Exciting Western Australian talent Abbey Green spoke about the confidence and excitement that the Perth Glory squad is exuding ahead of their opening A-League Women game at Canberra United on Saturday.
“We’ve been on the come-up for a few years now, so I think we can go well this season and build on what we had last season. All the girls went to all their other clubs during winter, but they’ve come back with one goal – to make Finals.
“I think last year we did better than anyone expected. We have quite high internal expectations of ourselves, and we just want to do our best, but still have that underdog mentality.”
Green was visibly delighted to be able to learn from experienced fellow WA native Ella Mastrantonio who has returned to the Glory for this season, and reflected on the importance that both the Australian international and American signing Rylee Baisden add to the squad:
“Rylee and Ella are real leadership players. I’ve never played with Ella before, but this is her hometown too and it’s great to have her back.”
Another big benefit for Perth Glory is the ability to play regular home matches this season, and that, plus the knowledge of having another year on her contract at her hometown club has given the attacker renewed confidence.
“It’s good to know I have another season on my contract. Coming back to Perth to play (after the NPL in Sydney) is great. Perth is my home and I love playing for this team. I’ve played with these girls for years. It’s great to be back and to stay back.”
Whilst Perth Glory had to face and overcome the challenge of spending by far the vast majority of last season based out of New South Wales, Green sees long-lasting benefits from the period. That sense of togetherness plus the potential of a partisan WA crowd behind the team gives Glory a real shared identity and belief.
“Having to go away last year (into the NSW hub) brought us together, we’re like a family away from our family. It’s nice to be back to normal and have fans at home and have our families watching those of us from Perth. Last year did bring us close together, and it’s nice to still have that.”
Abbey Green, Perth Glory.
Finally, Green looked ahead to Saturday’s opposition – a team who always give Perth Glory a tough battle. “Canberra – it’s hard. We couldn’t quite get past them last season, but we’ve put six weeks of hard work in and we’re confident that we can go there and give them a good game.”
WESTERN UNITED:
by Holly Wright
Above: Jess McDonald speaking to the media ahead of Western United’s first-ever A-League Women match. Image: Western United;
Western United are making their A-League Women debut this weekend after years of hard work finally paying off for the club and what better way to kick off their campaign than against the defending champions.
According to the club’s USWNT striker Jess McDonald, the club are more than ready for the battle. “Everyone’s been really hungry throughout this preseason since I’ve been here at least. We have such a young team who is hungry, and who is willing to work really hard for one another. Going into Saturday, we’re super stoked. We want to make it very difficult for every team to try and beat us. That is another one of our goals. We want to be one of the hardest teams to play against.”
United had a very strong pre-season one in which they actually defeated a Victory side with McDonald looking to bring her vast experience and knowledge, which saw her earn 19 caps for the USA, including an appearance at the 2019 World Cup, to guide the youngsters in the right direction.
“I’ve tried to bring my experience as a footballer into the squad because it is a very young group of players, so you try to give them that little bit of knowledge and bring out the best in them. Being a pro, it is nerve-wracking, especially when you’re a young player and, you are playing your first game that comes with a little bit of pressure.
“With my leadership presence, I’m just hoping that I can just bring out the best in everyone. It is actually a very fun role to play for me because I know what I can bring to the table as a footballer, as a leader, someone on and off the field, someone that my teammates can look up to so those are the type of roles that I do enjoy having.
McDonald also spoke about how exciting her role has been as well as the respect the players have given her along with their willingness to learn. “It has been awesome to see that everyone in this team has been very coachable.
“Little things are just coming together and bringing our strengths together. It has just been really nice to see everyone mesh really well together but that is something that we need as a team. Any team needs communication to be able to come together, especially if you have a goal and you want to succeed. I love that pressure as a leader on a young squad because, honestly, you know, at the end of the day, it makes me feel young.”
Western United will take time to adjust to what is a very competitive league, but this is a club that has been built to compete and are accustomed to success as Calder United in the Victoria NPLW under head coach Mark Torcaso.
McDonald also reflected on her return to the competition which sees her face her old side a decade after leaving Australia. “It is one of the most competitive leagues and it’s been amazing to see it rise. Melbourne Victory kind of gave me that second chance of playing football again. Coming in 10 years ago was a whole different vibe for me.
“I have my career set in stone, so it is nice to come back here and know what to expect from this league. It’s just cherry on top that my first game of the season just so happens to be against Melbourne Victory. It doesn’t get any better than that at the end of the day. I’m super stoked to play against my old club, old teammates, and even current teammates. It’s always nice to obviously play against friends and old clubs as well so it makes the competition even better.”
Western United has the potential to be a very entertaining and competitive side in the A-League Women this season, one definitely not to be underestimated.
This week’s Midweek Dub feature sees our huge 2022/23 A-League Women season preview brought to you by our team of eight writers covering the competition this season – Kieran Yap, Kris Goman, Ryan Miller-Woods, Ben Gilby, Jonathan Tay, Ben Carey, Hayley Routley, and Johnathan Stack(16/11/22).
ADELAIDE UNITED:
by Hayley Routley
Above: Adelaide United captain Isobel Hodgson is looking to lead her side to a Grand Final this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Season 2022/2023 spells the rebirth of Adelaide United Women, and for good reason. United are fresh off the back of their most successful season in club history, having made A-League Women (ALW) finals for the first time.
Last season also saw accolades including Coach of the Year for head coach, Adrian Stenta, and Fiona Worts becoming their first ever Julie Dolan medal recipient, in addition to the Golden Boot for her 13 goals. The team are wanting to take that momentum into the now extended season that sees them free of COVID-related disruptions for the first time in several years.
United’s coaching staff have cleverly retained the core of the history-making squad, in addition to bolstering their ranks with some exciting scholarship players.
Current and former captains respectively, Isabel Hodgson lines up for her eighth Reds’ campaign, whilst Dylan Holmes returns on a one-year contract extension. Despite losing defender Matilda McNamara to Danish side, AGF Fodbold, Jenna McCormick is back for her third United stint after almost a straight swap between the two clubs. Kayla Sharples will also be a noticeable absence, but United have turned to 2021 campaigner, Maruschka Waldus to fill her place. Looking domestically, competition for midfield spots heats up with the addition of former Melbourne Victory and Australian under-20s cap, Mindy Barbieri.
United have secured four scholarship signings of National Training Centre (NTC) alumni. Emilia Murray lit up the WNPL for NTC alongside Sascha Coorey, who scored two of the greatest goals of the season, plus the duo of Zoe Tolland and Katie Bowler who were arguably stars of runner-up, Adelaide City.
Above: The return of local start Jenna McCormick was aother boost for Adelaide United ahead of the season. Artwork: Adelaide United.
Stenta is clearly excited by the side he has built, stating “Overall, I believe the balance of youth and experienced players is, arguably, the best it has been since being involved at United and it is very exciting ahead of the new season.”
United captain Hodgson also feels United have the upper hand against their opponents through their off-season preparation. Commenting at a recent Football SA event, Hodgson indicated the entire squad has been training together since early October.
With United set to play majority of their home games at the brand-new State Centre for Football rather than Marden, squad members who played WNPL in the off-season also hold the advantage of pitch familiarity. The increase to nine home games and completed renovations to Cooper’s Stadium, including the addition of female changerooms, allows for the inclusion of doubleheaders with the men’s side. Hodgson has indicated the stadium upgrades, due to Adelaide being a host city for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, make the team feel wanted and a part of a professional setup.
The local flavour that defines Adelaide United, the familiarity amongst the squad who have either developed together through the NTC or played alongside each other in the WNPL, and the belief amongst this team is second to none. Adelaide United will look to turn that inherent chemistry into results, to become a powerhouse amongst the ALW and strive to consistently make finals from here on out.
BRISBANE ROAR:
by Ben Carey
Above: In-form Matildas midfielder Katrina Gorry is back at Brisbane Roar this season. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Last season was a transitionary season for the Brisbane Roar. The two-time champions and three-time premiers took a massive hit losing 2020/21 Golden Boot winner Emily Gielnik, and Matildas veterans Clare Polkinghorne and Tameka Yallop.
The Roar started the season in poor form, with two losses against Perth Glory and a draw against Canberra United, despite having led in all three matches for 80+ minutes. This killed their early season momentum and resulted in many lost points.
Despite their slow start, Brisbane Roar did manage to find some form during the remainder of the season, with a dramatic 4-2 win over the eventual champions, Melbourne Victory, and a tight 1-0 victory over Melbourne City in the second last round. They closed out their season with a 5-1 thumping of the Newcastle Jets. But it was too little too late, and they finished sixth on the ladder.
The biggest issue for the Roar last season was their defensive line, who were often unable to repel well-organised attacks from the higher-ranked teams and who conceded several own goals. Head coach, Garrath McPherson has rebuilt and strengthened his back line.
At the heart of the new defensive structure will be 31-year-old veteran Talitha Kramer, who transferred from Wellington Phoenix. She will provide the kind of leadership in the back line that was lacking after Polkinghorne left. She will be joined by the talented young defender Jamilla Rankin, who was a key part of Australia’s Under 20 Women’s World Cup squad in August.
Above: Brisbane Roar’s Larissa Crummer (right) has been a regular member of the Matildas squad this year. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
The midfield will be contested by Matildas superstar, Katrina Gorry, who has spent the last six months playing at Swedish club Vittsjö, where she has scored three goals and bagged three assists. Since returning from giving birth last year, Gorry has become an essential part of the Matildas. In her last season with the Roar, Gorry scored four goals and bagged a whopping seven assists, which was the second most in the league.
Gorry is a midfield workhorse. She’s aggressive and wins a lot of challenges. She can score from distance, and last season she proved she can nail penalty kicks too. Gorry will be working alongside captain and fellow midfielder, Ayesha Norrie, and the newly signed French international, Margot Robinne, who transferred from Canberra United.
Leading the attack will be Matildas striker, Larissa Crummer, who was the Roar’s leading goal scorer last season with eight goals. Alongside her will be American international, Shea Connors, who won the Golden Boot with 15 goals for APIA Leichhardt FC in the most recent NPLW season in NSW. Connors scored seven goals for the Roar last season. Her ability to read the plays and her lightning-fast pace means that she will be a menace to any defensive line.
McPherson basically rebuilt the Roar last year from the ground up. This year, if he can solve their defensive woes and tighten up their late game management, they will be a serious threat, and could challenge for a spot in the finals.
CANBERRA UNITED:
by Ryan Miller-Woods
Above: Canberra United unveil new signings (left to right) Rebecca Burrows, Grace Jale, and Grace Taranto with head coach Njegosh Popovic. Photo: Canberra United.
Canberra last season had a very uncharacteristic and disappointing campaign for their very high standards as a team. Despite this, Michelle Heyman seriously showed everyone exactly why she is without a doubt one of the very best players to have ever graced the A-League Women as she proved time and time again during the season to be a significant difference maker for Canberra.
In regards to the recruitment of players made by Canberra for this upcoming season of the A-League Women they are as follows:
Chloe Lincoln and Keeley Richards have stayed at the club with Lincoln having signed on for the following season as well. Canberra additionally has brought in Keely Segavcic from Northbridge Bulls FC in the FNSW League One Women’s.
Above: Ellie Brush is back at home town club Canberra United after five years away. Photo: Canberra Times.
Emma Ilijoski and Hayley Taylor-Young are back in defence on two-year contracts while Lauren Keir has left the club moving to fellow A-League Women’s side Western Sydney Wanderers. In her place has come Ellie Brush from Sydney FC, Holly Murray from South Melbourne in the NPLW Victoria, and Grace Taranto from Adelaide United.
Midfielders Sasha Grove, Laura Hughes, and Grace Maher will be continuing at the club for the season ahead with Grove signing for an additional year while Margot Robinne and Holly Caspers have left for Brisbane Roar and Western Sydney Wanderers respectively. They have been replaced by Rebecca Burrows and Emily Roach from Heidelberg United in the NPLW Victoria as well as Vesna Milivojević from ŽFK Spartak Subotica in Serbia.
Nickoletta Flannery’s return from an ACL injury is a massive boost up front as was the news that and Michelle Heyman joined her on a two-year contract. Also coming in are Grace Jale from Wellington Phoenix on a two-year contract and Ellen Gett from Brisbane Roar.
Canberra as a whole is looking like an incredibly strong team with the combination of youth and experience being massively prominent throughout the entire squad. It bodes extremely well for the club in many ways and possibly making last season just an outlier for them. The fact they boast a frontline of Michelle Heyman, Grace Jale, and Nickoletta Flannery will make Canberra a massive threat to any team. I can very much see Canberra this season finishing in the top four.
MELBOURNE CITY:
by Jonathan Tay
Above: Hannah Wilkinson, a key part of last season’s Melbourne City side, is back for another season as part of a very strong looking team assembled by Rado Vidosic. Photo: Melbourne City.
After a disappointing 2020/21 where they easily missed the Finals, Melbourne City finished second in 2021/22, pushing Sydney FC right to the last matchday weekend for the Premiership.
Under head coach Rado Vidosic, they curated a possession-hungry, press-heavy brand of football led by a spine of veteran ANZ internationals, in striker Hannah Wilkinson, midfielder Rebekah Stott, captain Emma Checker, and ageless goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri.
Their ball-dominant play resulted in a league-leading average of 55.4%, and was propped up by diligence in defence, where they allowed their opposition just 3.6 passes per defensive action (also first amongst all clubs). Over the regular season, they scored the third-most goals (29) and conceded the second-fewest (11).
Wilkinson led the attack superbly, picking up 14 goals (from chances worth just nine expected goals) and the A-League Golden Boot. But she was also healthily supported by breakout seasons from forwards Holly McNamara (four goals and three assists in eight matches), Rhianna Pollicina (seven goals, three assists), and wingback Kaitlyn Torpey.
Where City came undone was in their lack of squad depth, particularly noticeable when one of Wilkinson, Stott (SheBelieves Cup) or McNamara (ACL injury) were missing. They bowed out to eventual champions Melbourne Victory in the Preliminary Final.
This off-season, the club has looked to rectify that issue, with eyes on building upon last season’s performances. Vidosic seemingly used his Young Matildas assistant coaching gig as a bit of a recruitment drive, bringing in forward Bryleeh Henry from Western Sydney, and 16-year-old wonderkid Daniela Galic. Both started all three group games for Australia in their U-20 World Cup campaign, alongside current City players Sally James and Naomi Chinnama.
Checker was a stabilising defensive presence in Melbourne’s backline, playing every single minute of the regular season in 21/22. A key initiator of possession and distributor of the ball, the captain will be leaned upon again this time round, coming back from an offseason stint in the Damallsvenskan with Umeå IK FF.
Above: A key part of the Melbourne City squad – Emma Checker. Photo: Melbourne City.
She will however be mustering a brand new backline around her, with the absences of Winona Heatley (move to FC Nordsjælland) and Tori Tumeth (ACL injury). City will be hoping to see step-ups from youngsters Chinnama and Chelsea Blissett, having also brought in Karly Roestbakken, who’s been on the fringes of the senior Australian squad.
The biggest question mark for Melbourne City remains their midfield. Rebekah Stott leaves a hole in the middle of the pitch, having headed to Brighton and Hove Albion in England. For all their time on the ball last season, at times City were neutered by an inability to break down low blocks of defence, and carve out shots and chances. They were middle of the pack in fifth for both shot-creating and goal-creating actions, despite having one of the highest passing volumes in the A-League.
Another New Zealander in Katie Bowen has come in as a more defensively-minded central midfielder. With 85 Football Ferns caps and two Olympic campaigns under her belt, City will look to leverage that experience in an otherwise youthful engine room. Leticia McKenna is an option having shown some spark in limited minutes with two assists and the fourth-highest combined expected goals and expected assists per 90. Darcy Malone and Galic will also have legitimate opportunities to fight for game time.
This is a Melbourne City team that is again well-positioned to earn a spot in the top four this season. With the continuity of Vidosic and his proactive footballing principles, they will have a tactical superiority over most sides in the competition. The challenge for City will be overcoming the big guns of the Liberty A-League, Sydney FC, and crosstown rivals Melbourne Victory. Time will tell whether their offseason additions will be able to take them that one step further.
MELBOURNE VICTORY:
by Kieran Yap
Above: Young gun Paige Zois, seen here in action for Bulleen Lions during the most recent NPLW Victoria season, will play a key role in Melbourne Victory’s campaign. Photo: Bulleen Lions.
The two-time champions have undergone some changes in the off-season, but are well-positioned to win a third consecutive grand final.
The squad going into 2022/23 is in some ways the reverse of 2021/22. Last year, they began with a strong defence, but one lacking in options. Polly Doran, Kayla Morrison, Claudia Bunge and Courtney Nevin were joined in defence by returning goalkeeper Casey Dumont.
On paper, it looked like a difficult side to score against, but it took only one significant injury to Morrison to create a domino effect throughout the team.
Up front, Victory’s forward line looked like one of the most dangerous ever assembled in Australia. Although Melina Ayres was injured, they still boasted Catherine Zimmerman, Alex Chidiac, Lia Privitelli, Harriet Withers, and American superstar Lynn Williams.
They had few problems scoring goals, or creating chances, but with midfielders filling in at centre back and attacking midfielders like Kyra Cooney-Cross shifting to deeper roles, Victory was rarely at their very best.
Despite this, coupled with an incredibly congested schedule and a COVID outbreak, Victory rallied and after scraping into fourth on goal difference, fought their way admirable to a second consecutive Grand Final win away to Sydney FC.
Coming in to 2022/23 Jeff Hopkins has once again recruited well. This season, their attacking options are slightly less in numbers but still high in quality. Privitelli has enjoyed a strong season with Bulleen in Victoria’s NPLW, Zimmerman is back and as the hero of the finals series, Ayres.
Above: Alex Chidiac – impressive for the Matildas recently – her return to Melbourne Victory is a massive bvoost for Jeff Hopkins’ side. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
This time, it is in defence where they have significant depth. Morrison and Bunge are reunited in the centre of defence, but Hopkins has also added Jessika Nash, Nat Tathem, and Gema Simon. The three new arrivals are experienced and versatile. The likelihood of stylish midfielder Tiffany Eliadis or Grand Final goalscorer Amy Jackson filling in at centre back are very low.
What this means is that Victory’s talented midfield can be at their best, supported by a strong defence and aided by a dangerous attack.
Alana Murphy will return. The young midfielder impressed last season with her composure in midfield that belied her age. Paige Zois is another who could make a major impact. After being on the edges of the first team in 2021/22, the skilful playmaker enjoyed a dominant NPLW season and earned a call-up to the Young Matildas squad for the Under 20 World Cup.
Victory will be stronger this season, even if Chidiac and Cooney-Cross do not return. They have a fully fit Melina Ayres and an ever-improving Zimmerman to score the goals and will be difficult to score against.
Beattie Goad has also joined. Given Victory’s defensive stocks the former Tenerife full-back will likely return to the midfield role she played with Bulleen and Melbourne City.
Goad will add another level or versatility and skill to the side. She has the ability to link the midfield and attack, while also playing in wider position if required.
Victory is well-positioned to counter what the other contending sides have to offer. Another Grand Final appearance is expected and will likely be achieved even if they are beaten to first place on the ladder.
NEWCASTLE JETS:
by Johnathan Stack
Above: The arrival of Ausralian international Teigan Allen is a major signing for Newcastle Jets. Photo: Michael Dodge.
Newcastle Jets will be going into the new Liberty A-League campaign looking to improve on last season. With back-to-back eighth-place finishes, the Jets will be searching for their overdue rise up the ladder.
Ash Wilson was re-appointed back in May of this year for her third campaign at the helm. Under her last season, the Jets only amassed two wins as well as finishing eighth out of 10 clubs, so she will be looking for improvements.
As the Jets prepare for the season opener on 19th November away against Brisbane Roar there has been many changes.
Club icon Gema Simon moved on to pastures new after 13 years and over 130 matches at Grand Final winners Melbourne Victory. Also departing the club were Sophie Harding, Sunny Franco, Bethany Gordon, Tiana Jaber, Kirsty Fenton, Marie Markussen, and Elizabeth Eddy came to the end of her loan.
Staying for the 2022/23 season are Jets captain Cassidy Davis, youngster Lara Gooch who re-signed on a scholarship deal, Josie Allan signed her first senior deal from the club’s academy, defender Taren King, goalkeeper Claire Coelho, defender Lucy Johnson, striker Tara Andrews, attacker Ash Brodigan, attacker Lauren Allan, and youngster Josie Morely are on board.
Above: Tara Andrews – always an integral part of the Newcastle Jets team. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
Coming in for the Jets this season are several new players brought in by Wilson in the hope that it will send them in the right direction. Leila Puxty from NPL side Adamstown Rosebuds, American defender Emily Garnier who has European experience having previously been at Napoli Femminile from NWSL side Chicago Red Stars, Chloe Walandouw from the Jets Academy, Matilda Teigan Allen has been brought in from Western Sydney Wanderers, American defender Cannon Clough from Brisbane Roar, Tessa Tamplin from Servette FC in Switzerland, and goalkeeper Georgina Worth.
Jets have also signed Maitland Magpies captain Sophie Stapleford, striker Adriana Konjarski from NPL side Warners Bay FC. The third American joining the club this season is forward Murphy Agnew having recently spent time playing in Iceland and finally versatile attacking player Sarah Griffith comes in from NWSL Chicago Red Stars.
Having bolstered the defensive ranks for this upcoming season it is likely that Wilson will opt for a defensive formation such as the 4-2-3-1 she favoured last season. This will aim to achieve defensive stability early on in the season and will hopefully give the side more consistency throughout the campaign.
After a busy off-season at Newcastle Jets, things look to be slowly falling into place. The club may not find themselves in finals this year, but improvements have been made. It will be interesting to see if this overhaul of Newcastle Jets pays off.
PERTH GLORY:
by Ben Gilby
Above: Perth Glory’s Sofia Sakalis (centre) is in the form of her life and could well be one of the top players in the competition this coming season. Photo: Mark Evans/Getty Images.
Whilst Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC took the silverware last season, Perth Glory emerged with the respect of the women’s footballing community in Australia with Alex Epakis’ side having a sensational campaign despite everything seemingly conspiring against them.
Due to Western Australia’s tight border restrictions, Glory only played one home game and then spent the remainder of the season based almost 4,000 km away (2485 miles), but fired by a contingent of the country’s hottest young talent, only missed out on Finals football on goal difference.
With good reason, there is huge confidence in the West that this season will see them go one better at least. Macedonia Park will be a cauldron, particularly under lights as Perth will get to experience the advantage that home games afford them on a regular basis for the first time since 2020.
Above: Perth Glory fans delivered a raucous atmosphere at the club’s only home game at Macedonia Park last season. Photosupplied by: Perth Glory.
On top of the partisan nature of a WA crowd and the implications of the opposition spending hours on a plane just to get to the west coast, Alex Epakis has, without question the strongest overall squad that the club has had since their last Grand Final appearance in 2019.
Last year’s major rebuild brought in a large crop of talent on multi-year contracts, meaning the likes of Alana Jancevski, Sarah Cain, Susan Phonsongkham, Sofia Sakalis, and Claudia Mihocic were already confirmed to be in purple, with local talent such as Hana Lowry, Abbey Green, Bella Wallhead, and Tijan McKenna also on board. Epakis moved quickly at the end of last season to successfully extend the contract of Cyera Hintzen, whose physicality and sharpness in front of goal were so impressive last time round.
Perth’s head coach has also bolstered his already strong squad with further arrivals as home town hero Ella Mastrantonio returned along with former Brisbane Roar American attacker Rylee Baisden.
Above: Perth Glory’s home produced star Hana Lowry, who represented the Young Matildas at the U20 World Cup in August. Image: Football Australia.
On the negative side of the ledger, the loss of Deborah-Ann de la Harpe back home to New South Wales is huge, as the new Sydney FC signing was a stand-out player for the Glory last season, but Perth can point to the presence of the experienced heads of Tash Rigby and Kim Carroll at the back
Going into pre-season, the team has a large number of players who have had stellar campaigns in various NPLW competitions. Sakalis and Cain jointly won the Most Valuable Player award in the Victoria competition, Wallhead, Mihocic, and Wallhead all caught the eye in the same league, Morgan Aquino was a Grand Finalist in the NSW competition and both Hintzen and Phonsongkham enjoyed a sensational season in Iceland. On top of this Lowry was part of the Young Matildas side which played in the U20 World Cup in August.
Perth Glory have a team of players who are ready to hit the ground running. Sakalis is going to be an absolute gun, and Jancevski is always a firecracker all over the pitch. There is so much to be excited about in this squad, and qualifying for the top four is the minimum that Perth should aim for.
SYDNEY FC:
by Kris Goman
Above: Cortnee Vine, Impetus‘ A-League Women player of the year last season, is now a regular international starter and will have a major influence on Sydney FC’s season. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Sydney enter the 22-23 A-League Women (ALW) season as premiers from last season, but once again, were pipped at the post by Melbourne Victory in another close Grand Final ending in a 2-1 win for the arch rivals.
It was Sydney’s fifth Grand Final appearance in a row, of which they won just one. They’ve been to the Grand Final nine times in total but only hoisted the trophy three times and they’ll be looking to change that result this year.
Once again Sydney have managed to maintain the core of the premiership winning squad, including retaining superstar Matildas forward, Cortnee Vine who was briefly looking for a European side to join. And this is the real strength of the Sydney FC team, having a well-oiled group that understands each other, knows what everyone is going to do and where they will be. The lack of upheaval each year must make it very easy for Ante Juric, himself a rusted-on part of the furniture in his sixth season with the club.
While they’ve lost Ellie Brush to Canberra, Angelique Hristodoulou to the Wanderers and gun forward Paige Satchell to Wellington Phoenix as well as Taylor Ray to yet another ACL injury (although she is training with the team and according to social media is now running so may appear mid-season), Remy Siemsen is expected to join the team once after her spell with Swedish team AIK which saw the Solna-based side relegated from the Damallsvenskan.
In terms of new players, Kiwi national team defender, Anna Green, Perth Glory escapee, Deborah-Anne De La Harpe and Young Matilda and ex Newcastle Jets player, Kirsty Fenton, will be tightening up the back line. In the midfield, Young Matilda Abbey Lemon and scholarship signing Anika Stajcic, yes, Alen Stajcic’s daughter, will bring new energy.
Above: Mackenzie Hawkesby, back in sky blue. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
There’s plenty of excitement in the forwards with sisters Jynaya Rose Dos Santos (another Young Matilda) and Indiana Dos Santos (also on scholarship) and NWSL Chicago Red Stars and Stanford centre forward, Madison Haley coming on board. Shay Evans is also returning to Sydney after a stint with Adelaide United last season.
Seeing another season with the team and the real core is Captain, Natalie Tobin, Mackenzie Hawkesby, who has been rated as the most valuable player in the league in the fantasy football competition, Rachel Lowe, Charlotte Mclean, Sarah Hunter, Charlize Rule, afore-mentioned Cortnee Vine and keepers, Jada Whyman and Katie Offer as well as Shay Hollman and Mary Stanic-Floody who are both now on full-time contracts after scholarships last year.
A mix of youth and experience has always been the mainstay of Sydney FC and it’s a formula they are repeating again this season. Even the young players are very experienced with five Young Matildas and three Junior Matildas in the squad and they’ll all be keen to prove their talent. Having this sort of depth leaves Juric in an enviable position and Sydney FC will once again be a serious contender to take the premiership and maybe, finally get the double.
The first match of the year will be against Melbourne Victory and there’s going to be a few points to prove in the Grand Final replay. See it live at Cromer Park on Saturday 26th November at 3pm.
WELLINGTON PHOENIX:
by Ryan Miller-Woods
Above: Paige Satchell – one of a series of impressive new signings by Wellington Phoenix. Artwork: Wellington Phoenix.
The most important thing throughout Wellington’s debut campaign in the A-League Women last season was not so much the results but the fact that they kept improving as a squad and subsequently build team cohesion from match to match.
It needs to be said that despite finishing on the bottom of the table last season (only on goal difference), they showed adversity in defeat, and played better than results and the final ladder may have shown. They all did themselves incredibly proud.
As for this season, the recruitment of players made by Wellington for this upcoming season of the A-League Women is impressive. With the goalkeepers, it is unchanged from last season with Wellington captain Lily Alfeld and Brianna Edwards.
In defence, Mackenzie Barry, Zoe McMeeken, vice-captain Kate Taylor and Saskia Vosper will be continuing at the club while Talitha Kramer has left the club for Brisbane Roar. Coming in at the back are Claudia Cicco from APIA Leichhardt in the NPLW NSW and Marisa van der Meer from Melbourne City.
Above: Betsy Hassett’s arrival adds vital experience to the Wellington Phoenix squad this season. Photo: Ian Hitchcock.
There is quality in midfield as Isabel Gomez, Chloe Knott, Alyssa Whinham and Grace Wisnewski have remained at the club Knott and Whinham on two-year contracts. They have been joined by experienced New Zealand international Betsy Hassett. The 135-cap Football Fern comes in from Stjarnan from Iceland.
There have been changes up front. Ava Pritchard has stayed on while last season’s top goalscorer Grace Jale has joined Canberra United. In her place has come Michaela Robertson from the club’s Academy and the hugely impressive arrival of Kiwi international Paige Satchell from Sydney FC.
Whilst Jale’s loss is significant as half of the goals that Wellington scored last season came from her, the experience that Betsy Hassett brings to the club and the unlimited potential that exists with so many of their young players means this squad are hungry for success. I can see Wellington finishing this season a very respectable seventh.
WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS:
by Kris Goman
Above: Clare Hunt – a major part of the Western Sydney Wanderers squad. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers.
Western Sydney Wanderers have scored a massive coup in snapping up Tom Sermani as the Head of Women’s football. They are the only club in the league who have appointed someone to this sort of position and Sermani comes as one of the most experienced managers in the women’s game, having previously coached the Matildas twice, the Football Ferns most recently, and other teams like Orlando Pride and New York Power.
Cath Canuli was let go after one season as head coach last year and she’s been replaced by Kat Smith. Smith will concentrate on management of the senior team while Sermani is responsible for overseeing the Liberty A-League side, development programs, and the recruitment strategy.
Sermani’s brief is to set the foundations for the women’s program and to create a new culture and environment at the club. Smith has been Assistant Coach with the Junior Matildas and was Assistant Coach for Melbourne Victory in 2018. She’s considered one of the best up and coming coaches in Australia and will be mentored by Sermani.
After making the finals for the first time ever in the 20-21 season, the 21-22 season ended disappointingly after a solid start. It’s not often a team hangs together on one player but losing Clare Hunt mid-season to an ACL injury made the difference for the Wanderers.
The good news is that she’s back for this season in defence and is joined by Angelique Hristodoulou from Sydney FC and Lauren Weir from Canberra, both excellent defenders in their own right. This looks like one of the most solid defensive lines in the competition. They are backed up by Junior Matilda Ella Abdul Massih, and Young Matilda, Sienna Saveska.
Between the sticks, in case anything actually gets through the defence, the Wanderers have imported Jordyn Bloomer from Racing Louisville in the NWSL. She only played during the Challenge Cup for Racing but was awarded the Big Ten Goalkeeper of the year in the 2021 and 2019 NCAA Tournaments so clearly has potential.
The experienced Sham Khamis is back for another year after backing up for Sarah Langman last season. Teresa Morrissey is a Young Matilda shotstopper who’s been playing in the US college system for Rhode Island while completing her degree. She’s back now and it should be a fight to see who gets playing time between these three.
Above: Angelique Hristodoulou, who has joined the Wanderers from crosstown rivals Sydney FC. Photo: Daniel Carson.
Wanderers seemed to have gone long on midfielders and it’s going to be a battle to decide who to play. As there’s a lot less choice of forwards and pure defenders, it’s logical that some might play up or back and they may have to if there’s any injuries. The exciting news is that Amy Harrison is back home after playing for PSV in the Netherlands. The Matilda grew up in Western Sydney so should feel right at home and bring valuable European experience.
Remaining from last year, is Danika Matos, Olivia Price, Football Fern; Malia Steinmetz, Young Matilda, Alexia Apostolakis and Young Matildas Captain, Sheridan Gallagher. New for the midfielders this year is Melissa Caceres, local Bethany Gordon coming from the Newcastle Jets and on scholarship, Young Matilda, Amy Chessari.
A potentially exciting signing is that of Theresa Boade from the NWSL. She’s made five appearances for the North Carolina Courage and scored twice since, debuting during the Challenge Cup this year. So the midfield looks solid and versatile.
Intriguingly, Jitka Chlastakova is listed in Keep-Up fantasy football as being with the Wanderers but there’s no official announcement from the club as yet. She has played for Sparta Prague and is on the Czech National team but it remains to be seen if she’s on the team but would bring some much needed experience.
Where the Wander Woman seem a bit light on is in the forwards and this was a problem last season too. At the beginning of the season, while they conceded very few goals, they weren’t scoring many either. Bryleeh Henry showed plenty of potential but it didn’t convert to goals. Similarly with Teigan Collister, lots of gang busting runs but not so many goals.
Holly Caspers has signed for the Wanderers up front from Canberra where she had a successful first ALW season. Joining her from Newcastle Jets is Sophie Harding in her third ALW season. And from Wellington Phoenix comes Young Matilda, Cushla Rue. Gallagher can play up front too, still there’s no big names in the forwards and this is where the team might struggle a bit.
Sermani has put together a very young team and losing the experience of club stalwarts, Caitlin Cooper and Erica Halloway may tell. There’s six young Matildas and one Junior Matilda in the squad so the youth holds plenty of talent but the lack of experience may be their downfall. On the other hand, Smith has a team she can mold to her shape that will be very willing to learn.
The Wanderers have a first round bye so their first match is against the Newcastle Jets away at Scully Park on 26th November and their first home match is 3rd December at Marconi Stadium in the local derby against Sydney FC.
WESTERN UNITED:
by Kieran Yap
Above: Back in Australia – Western United’s big name signing ahead of their first A-League Women season – Chloe Logarzo. Photo: Justine Burch for Impetus.
A new side in the A-League Women is something to get excited about. Western United’s first season comes on the back of years of work and a long-term plan. The club forged a link with Victoria’s NPLW champions Calder United.
United formed a development squad aimed at improving the skills of Victoria’s best-unsigned talent and giving an opportunity for players to earn an A-League contract.
The result of this and the recruiting skills of coach Mark Torcaso’s squad has a core group made up from Victoria’s best and some added some impressive signings.
Alana Cerne, Melissa Taranto, Adriana Taranto, Stacy Papadopoulos, Raquel Derales and Aleks Sinclair headline the arrivals from Calder United. Harriet Withers joins from Melbourne Victory and Khali Johnson arrives after the Under 20 World Cup adventure.
In midfield, Jaclyn Sawicki has been signed. The Philippines international will add some high-level experience to the young side. Alongside her is the biggest signing of the season. After two seasons away, Chloe Logazro is back in Australia.
Above: Aleks Sinclair is a renowned figure from the local football scene and will be a crucial part of Western United’s inaugeral season. Artwork: Western United.
Logarzo joins Western United to get some much-needed game time ahead of the 2023 World Cup. Her return to The Matildas from a year-long recuperation from a knee injury was one of the best moments of 2022, and the star midfielder will hope to add many more this domestic season.
Logazro is a game-changing midfielder. She can score spectacular goals and link the team together. Her defensive efforts equal her attacking threat and she will suit Torcaso’s style of football perfectly.
New sides can take time to adjust, but the addition of Sawicki and Logarzo means that although they will likely not win the league, Western United will be no easy prey for other sides.
This is a club that has built this squad to compete. The Calder United players are accustomed to success and Mark Torcaso has made winning a habit in his time in management.
Western United has the players to be an entertaining and competitive side. They will make for interesting viewing for neutrals and have the team in place to attract a fan base from the outset.
This will be an exciting season for the league’s newest team.
James Giblin provides all the details from Sunday’s game at Jericho Lane in both words and photographs (16/11/22).
Liverpool Feds Development 1-2 Pilkington
Above: Pilkington control the ball at Liverpool Feds Development on Sunday. Photo: James Giblin.
On Sunday, Pilks traveled to Jericho Lane to face Liverpool Feds Development in the Liverpool Women’s & Youth Football League Division One, in a highly anticipated game due to the reverse fixture only being played two weeks ago.
The first ten minutes were end to end with both teams looking to secure that early goal, Liverpool Feds secured a goal shortly after. It was going to be a tough task for Pilks to pick themselves up and try to secure a goal before halftime, but they were given a penalty on the 20 minute mark which was scored by Chloe Fairclough.
Above: Chloe Fairclough scores for Pilkington from the penalty spot. Photo: James Giblin.
Pilks pushed for that second goal which come just before halftime, this one was scored by Bec Birchall.
In the second half, Liverpool Feds pushed to try and secure an equaliser but they couldn’t get that second goal. The game finished 2-1 and it’s another three points on the board for Pilkington who travel to Marine next week in a very tough test.
Above: Pilkington get a shot away at Liverpool Feds Development. Photo: James Giblin.
Above: Annie Laight in action for Pride Park – part of the Derbyshire side’s defence who kept another clean sheet. Photo: via Pride Park FC.
Another Beth Jones hat-trick and a clean sheet saw Pride Park into the quarter-final of the Derbyshire Ladies League Challenge Cup.
There was a ten-minute delay to kick-off due to traffic delays affecting the visitors’ players caused by an accident on the A38. After starting their last two games at a good tempo the extra 10 minutes of keeping warm after the warm-up seemed to affect Pride, as they were slow getting into their stride.
Despite this, Pride fashioned the first real chance of the game after three minutes – a combination in the centre between Tash Allderidge, Summer Evans and culminating in Beth Jones laying off for Hannah Kwiatek to have a close-range shot saved by the ‘keeper.
A few minutes later, Ella Kew made a terrific run down the left and put an inviting ball across the six-yard box which Beth Jones was only inches away from connecting with.
After fifteen minutes Amber Valley had a chance as a diagonal ball was hit into space behind the defence, putting their speedy winger through and cutting in from wide, beating goalkeeper Jade Howell to the ball, but Sophie Ayton had taken up an excellent covering position and was able to clear.
Above: Pride Park goalkeeper Jade Howell put in another strong performance for her team. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
Pride made the breakthrough just after twenty minutes, as Sophie Roberts won the ball back at right back, slipping it to Sophie Ayton, who played a short pass to Ella Kew. Kew took a few steps with the ball before hitting a pass into the channel for Jones to run beyond the defenders and turn in at the near post.
Five minutes later, Eliot Sayavong put Jones through but her shot was parried by the keeper who grabbed it at the second attempt as it threatened to go over the line. The goalkeeper was injured in making the save, either blocking the shot or when falling on the ball. After the game it was confirmed that the injury was a broken forearm in what seemed a really innocuous incident and terribly bad luck. We wish her a full and speedy recovery.
After a lengthy stoppage, Allderidge intercepted the stand-in goalkeeper’s clearance from the drop ball, playing a first-time pass forward to Evans who headed on to Jones, who beat the keeper but saw her shot go just wide of the post. Jones made no mistake six minutes before half-time, however, as Evans headed on Rachel Weaver’s pass and Jones finished from a tight angle for 2-0.
There was an opportunity for Amber Valley on the stroke of half-time, as Yasmin Uppal received a throw-in on the left, near the edge of the area, before beating three Pride players and hitting a shot on target, but Jade Howell had her angles right and held the shot.
Pride made a very quick start to the second half, extending their lead within a minute of the restart. A slick combination between Weaver, Evans, and Otty Baker culminated in a superb pass by Baker into the path of Jones who rounded the goalkeeper to complete her hat-trick (her third in consecutive games) from another tight angle, despite three defenders getting back.
It looked like Weaver had added a fourth after 67 minutes, bundling home Kew’s corner at the far post, but it was ruled out as the corner had curled out of play and in again.
Above: Sophie Ayton, part of Pride Park’s winning team on Sunday. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
Shortly afterwards Amber Valley won a throw-in on their left, level with the edge of the penalty area. Pride switched off momentarily, leaving the thrower unattended and able to take the return pass before stepping infield and hitting a good shot, which ‘keeper Howell watched all the way and tipped over.
With a quarter of an hour to go Pride had a good chance to extend their lead, as Sayavong won the ball back from an Amber Valley throw-in, prodding the ball to Baker who released Evans with a superb pass. Evans beat the first defender and held off a second defender but put her shot just over the crossbar.
Good build-up play created chances for Sayavong – whose shot was saved – and Kew who shot narrowly wide. With five minutes remaining an Izzy Wilsoncroft throw-in was headed on by Sayavong across the area, the bounce proving difficult for the defender but Fran Critchley-Watson’s shot was saved at point-blank range, the ‘keeper recovering well to reach the rebound first and smother the ball.
The remaining five minutes were played without incident – a third hat-trick in as many games for Beth Jones – taking her to 12 for the season – and a second consecutive clean sheet enough for the Pride to advance to a quarter-final against Wirksworth Colts on 11th December.
Whilst Jones’ hat-trick will capture the attention, it was also a second clean sheet in consecutive games, reflecting excellent work by goalkeeper Howell and the back four with excellent screening by Sayavong which limited Amber Valley to four goal attempts. Sophie Ayton seemed to get her head to everything and Annie Laight was calm and composed, reading play well to make key interceptions and both centre backs were composed in possession.
It’s more cup action next week as the Pride travel to East Midlands Regional League side Ilkeston Town in the Derbyshire FA County Cup 1st Round (KO 1.30pm).
Above: Coming together – Australia are putting the performances and understanding together heading into World Cup year. Photo: Football Australia.
The Matildas have finished 2022 off with two comfortable wins. More importantly, they have established an identifiable, repeatable, and effective game style.
Tony Gustavsson’s side has now recorded four consecutive wins, over four different opponents from three regions. They have scored 13 goals and conceded two, with clean sheets against Sweden and Thailand.
But as always with friendly matches, it is not the scoreline that matters most, it is the performances. Although both matches contained patches where Australia struggled, the two wins were exciting to watch and exhibited tactics that worked against both teams.
Gustavsson has tinkered with personnel and formations since his first game in charge. After suffering heavy losses, to Germany and the Netherlands, he switched to a back three. This setup produced a strong performance against Sweden prior to an Olympic tournament that took them to the semi-finals.
Following that, Australia changed back to the traditional 4-3-3. It meant numbers in attack, but without an experienced defensive midfielder, Australia were often left vulnerable in midfield. It was a weakness exploited in spectacular and heartbreaking fashion by South Korea’s Ji So Yun in the Asian Cup quarter-final.
In the 4-3-3, Australia looked to press from the front, but once the ball got through that first line of defence, the defenders were immediately under pressure as the midfield was forced out of position.
Above: Caitlin Foord is in outstanding form at present for both club and country. Photo Football Australia.
The 4-4-2 that Gustavsson switched to against Denmark and continued in the wins against Sweden and Thailand, had gotten the best out of a squad with depth in midfield and two world-class strikers.
Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord both are accustomed to defending from the front at Arsenal and Chelsea respectively. They do not race directly at the defenders, but stalk side to side, cutting off angles or making them pass wide or to risky areas in the middle.
As Gustavsson said after the Sweden game, they know when to move and when to pressure the ball carrier. The fact that they have played together for over a decade in the national team means that they have an on-field chemistry.
You will rarely see them take up the same space or get in each other’s way. Pairing them as a mobile strike partnership gets the best out of them defensively as well as offensively. Two goals each over the international window and multiple other chances created showed what this two-player partnership can offer.
It also means that the midfield has more players and less space for the opposition. If the ball goes wide to the left, the attackers have to deal with Cortnee Vine and Charli Grant. If it goes to the right, they are faced with Hayley Raso and either Courtney Nevin or Steph Catley.
If they go through the middle, there are now two players to contend with, where previously there was only one. Neither Katrina Gorry nor Kyra Cooney-Cross are defensive midfielders, but they are quick, relentless, and capable of winning the ball or at least slowing down the opposition.
They have developed into an exciting midfield pairing. Cooney-Cross has impressive acceleration and an eye for a killer pass. Gorry has a right foot that can be a pillow for a dropping high ball, a sledgehammer if she wants to shoot, or surgical if she wants to find a teammate.
Above: Tony Gustavsson is bringing the best out of Katrina Gorry. Photo: Football Australia.
Both players dribble, both can create, and both can score. The last two national team coaches have struggled to find a way to get the best out of Gorry. Gustavsson has made her central to his plans. She is a player who dominates games and improves those around her.
The back four is an example of the long-term project bearing fruit. Since stepping into the role of head coach. Gustavsson has been consistent in saying that building depth in the squad is important. This has long been evident in defence, and a year ago, there were few options at fullback beyond Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter.
Grant and Nevin can now step into those positions without the rest of the team needing to adjust. Nevin put in some dangerous crosses against Thailand, while Grant’s genuinely two-footed passing allows Australia to retain possession in defence, and change angles in attack.
The two matches were not perfect. Australia should have scored more against Thailand, and the visitors’ stubborn defence caused hesitation in front of goal. Kerr seemed to play a half-shot-half pass to Foord with only the keeper to beat, and Mary Fowler uncharacteristically delayed her shots in the second half.
Against Sweden, The Matildas were lucky not to concede after an early onslaught, but they found their way into the match and were clinical in front of goal against a strong opponent.
The team still remains a work in progress, as Elise Kellond -Knight, Tameka Yallop, Chloe Logarzo, and Carpenter return there may still be more tinkering. But the pieces are starting to come together, and a picture of what The Matildas look like at their best is starting to reveal itself.
It’s a good end to the year.
Above: Fireworks and positivity at the end of the Matildas’ 2022. Photo: Football Australia.
Above: The ultimate team in women’s international football at the moment? England come togetherafter their final game of 2022 against Norway. Photo: Lionesses
England played their final match of 2022 in Spain against a Norway side now coached by former Lionesses interim manager Hege Riise. The last time the two sides met, England destroyed them 8-0 in a history-making Euro 2022 group match.
However, there was no doubt Sarina Weigman was expecting a very different opponent to the one they faced four months ago with their changed style of play putting more emphasis on their defence.
The Lionesses failed to breakdown Norway’s stubborn backline who came from behind to salvage a draw despite going down to 10 players.
The European Champions’ task of maintaining their unbeaten run wasn’t made easy due to further dropouts from the squad earlier this week. Already without forwards Lauren Hemp and Fran Kirby as well as captain Leah Williamson who all pulled out last week; Lucy Bronze and Lotte Wubben Moy returned to their clubs with minor injuries whilst player of the season Beth Mead pulled out due to family circumstances.
Chelsea midfielder Guro Reiten captained Norway who were without the injured Lyon forward Ada Hegerberg with a leg injury and Caroline Graham Hansen who announced in August that she would take a break from international duty because of cardiac problems.
England Youth Seizing Their Opportunity
Above: Maya Le Tissier and Katie Robinson – two of England’s next generation got minutes this international window. Photo: Lionesses.
The absence of some of the team’s star players gave a great opportunity for the younger players to catch the eye of the Weigman to see where they’re at and how they perform on the international scene. Manchester City forward Jess Park capped off a comfortable performance in the 4-0 win on Friday against Japan after coming off the bench to score within 79 seconds of her debut. Ebony Salmon also impressed providing two assists off the bench.
Weigman gave a first international start to Manchester United’s Maya Le Tissier who scored twice on her WSL debut for Marc Skinner’s side in their 4-0 victory over Reading. Rachel Daly, who has consistently been started at left-back despite playing as a forward for club manager Carla Ward finally got her opportunity in the number nine role to add to her eight goals in ten games for club and country this season. Ellie Roebuck got the nod in goal.
Norway Dangerous on the Counterattack and Stubborn in Defence
England controlled possession from as early as four minutes but Norway showed their threat on the counterattack coming close early on as the Lionesses were guilty of losing possession in the middle Emilie Haavi was denied by Ellie Roebuck at her near post after debutant Maya Le Tissier did enough to close the angle down with a crucial sliding challenge.
Norway were sitting deep with plenty of players behind the ball, although when they attacked they committed players forward but the lack of tempo meant England struggled to find a way to break them down. When Norway got forward, they looked so dangerous. Ellie roebuck was left stranded as Reiten directed a shot goalwards but lucky for the England keeper it went wide of her left post.
The Grasshoppers quickly closed down any sight of goal the Lionesses had from the edge of the box.
Emilie Haavi was a threat all half for Norway. Her crosses from the left-hand side caused England problems but on this occasion, Lisa Naalsunds shot was a poor one.
The only dampener for Norway was the dismissal of Anja Sonstevold. Two yellow cards in just over six minutes neither she can have any complaints about. First was a heavy mis-timed challenge on Nikita Paris then minutes later the same two players were involved as Sonstevold foolishly dragged the United winger back with her away down the right-hand wing.
Complacency on the Ball and Lack of Cutting Edge Up Front
Above: Millie Bright – a rock in defence for England. Photo: Lionesses.
Again, as the story has been on most international breaks England were guilty of being complacent on the ball and if it wasn’t for Millie Bright cutting out a pass straight through the middle, Norway probably would have taken the lead. Despite working hard to win the ball back with 24 minutes gone, England were yet to register a shot on target. It took until the 31 minutes for the first one to occur after a superb bit of skill by Lauren James to beat her marker her shot from distance was straight at the goalkeeper
England ended the half fairly strong as Nikita Parris put pressure on Norway’s back like as they tried to play out from defence.
Le Tissier Shines and Daly Gives Weigman a Selection Dilemma
Le Tissier put in a performance far beyond her years. She was cool and composed on the ball and worked well with fellow United teammate Nikita Parris whilst Rachel Daly’s hold-up play well was superb in the middle of the park allowing the likes of Chloe Kelly and Ella Toone to get up and support.
Probably against the run of play, Daly made the breakthrough after she met a Kelly cross nodding it into the bottom left-hand corner of the goal making it two goals in two games for England in the international break. . She can finish and knows where the goal is. She hadn’t had a sight of goal but then grabs the opener.
Change in Personnel and Tempo
Above: Rachel Daly had a superb international window for England, and finally got a chance in an offensive position. Photo: Lionesses.
Alex Greenwood was replaced by Alessia Russo at half time meaning that Rachel Daly moved back into right back with Le Tissier moving to the middle of defence alongside Esme Morgan with Niamh Charles remaining at left back.
Weigman wanted higher intensity in the second half. Although they were combining in the attacking areas there was not enough of it to satisfy the England manager although it was probably expected with the no clear indication who will start as the target up front going into next year’s world cup.
Nightmare Mistake for Roebuck After a Solid Performance
Sophie Haug took advantage of a mistake at the back and almost poked it beyond Roebuck who made a number of huge saves before greenwood cleared with Haug ready to pounce on the rebound.
Roebuck next denied Reiten as rash decisions in the defensive third saw England create their own problems. Her free kick was curled towards the left corner with roebuck diving across to push it behind.
Then out of nowhere came a major lapse in concentration and the ball was in the back of the net. Roebuck ran out of her box to clear a hopeful long ball but completely missed it allowing Arsenal midfield Maanum an open goal to tap into.
Records smashed
The group has proven what a dominant force they are going to be going into next year’s World Cup and on current form they will be considered one if not the favourite for next year’s tournament.
Played 20. Won 16. Drawn 4. Lost 0. Scored 72. Conceded 7. Won the Euros, Arnold Clark Cup and qualified for the World Cup with a 100% record having not conceded a goal.
In the latest in our Midweek Dub series of player and coach interviews from the A-League Women, Canberra United star Grace Maher speaks exclusively to Kieran Yap(15/11/22).
Above: Grace Maher in action for Canberra United at Western Sydney Wanderers last season. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
It only took five minutes and a few touches to change the result. Canberra United were two goals down when Grace Maher stepped up to take an 87th-minute free kick from almost 25 yards.
After the match, she modestly gave some of the credit for the goal of the round to the wind. But the technique to hit it so accurately was second only to the composure to take on the shot. The ball spun viciously into the net to give the home team a lifeline and keep their season alive.
In injury time, it was another moment of class by the Canberra number 10. Maher’s corner kick had been blocked and it look like the chance had gone. When the ball bounced back to her, she took one tough to round the defender. The next saw the ball fizzed in between the defence and the goalkeeper. Holly Caspers was on hand to net the dramatic equaliser.
This is Grace Maher at her very best, and something that A-League Women fans are becoming accustomed to. Whether it is scoring with a 40-yard rocket on the run or a full 90 minutes of quick incisive passes, she is one of the league’s most watchable playmakers.
“I’ve always been very level-headed even if we’ve only got a few minutes left,” Maher told Impetus of her composure on the field.
“My thought process and my composure stay exactly the same as the first minute.
“If you train the way you play then those things that you are doing on the training park you will start to see on the field.
“Set pieces are a unique part of the game. I don’t think they were appreciated until the last 10 years or so.
“When I was growing up I remember, when we had corners at under 10’s level or younger if a girl from my team couldn’t get it into the box it was really annoying, so I thought ‘I’ll do it,’ and it just developed like that.”
Grace Maher on how she began her superb corner-taking.
“I was left-footed as well, in the youth national teams it was also a real key component for me. You can change games with different angles.
“As I grew up doing that I got better at it. There’s a lot of decision-making that goes into it, but that’s at training, so when you step up onto the field, you know exactly what you’re going to do.”
Maher is a player of brilliant contrasts. She never looks rushed but keeps the game moving quickly, she is powerful, but precise and has had an ideal preparation for the upcoming season, despite not playing a competitive match since March 2022.
While most A-League women players have finished up NPLW seasons or campaigns in Europe or the U.S, Maher has taken a different approach. She sharpened her skills and match fitness while training with Under 17 and Under 18 men’s teams in Canberra.
“I definitely wish it (the off-season) was a little bit shorter, no more than two to three months would be great. But since covid every year in the off-season has been a little bit different for me.
“This year I took the opportunity to go do what I did when I was younger and train with the boys. I’ve always really enjoyed that and thought that it helps me reach my potential.
“I was able to keep fit and that allowed me a little bit of free time to coach at my junior club. I’m on the committee there and I coach the under-11 girls’ team, I helped with the social media and everything to do with football there.
Above: Grace Maher (left) battling it out for possession. Photo: Canberra United.
“I’ve also been doing study and was working with Capital Football, helping with the upcoming season, and doing a little bit of work behind the scenes for the Canberra region of football.
“It is a different game, there are pro’s to doing both. You have to be quicker. It really helps me work on my game defensively. They’re quicker so you have to be smarter, so it really works on decision-making.
“I play on limited touches and my passing range is what gets me out of things as opposed to just charging past. The guys are great, and the coaches are great so it’s just a really fun challenging environment and that’s what I need when I’m not playing games.”
Coaching the girls’ junior team was a rewarding experience for Maher, she says that she feels privileged to do it and that it makes her heart full to see them develop as players and fans of the sport.
“They were amazing,” she says of her team. “I saw huge growth in them from the start of the season to the end. What I was most proud of was their attitude and ability to support each other. They wanted to win but they looked after each other first.
“They loved their football. I got them into watching the Euros and following the Champions League. They’ve been learning about football not just playing it.
“It’s opened their eyes to what they could be if they want to follow a career in football. I think that’s important for the next generation because when I was coming up the w-league was present and that was the goal, but we didn’t have this global reach. You had to attend games you didn’t get to watch highlights.”
Starting the season with momentum
Above: Nikki Flannery and Grace Maher are back together at Canberra United this season. Photo: @flannery_cia
Canberra United started the 2021/22 season slowly. Like many clubs in the A-League Women, there is a high turnover of players. Although they had much of the core group that took them to the semi-finals the previous year, it took some time for the side to gel.
Maher says this is something that the team and new manager Njegosh Popovich have worked on rectifying for the new season.
“We’ve gone straight into games,” is how she describes the pre-season. “We’re working on our relationship between us as players before there’s too much information coming through the coaching staff. It’s really like, ‘lets see what we are as players.’
“It’s how we speak about picking teams based on who’s in form, it’s seeing what form’s work, what formations and players are gelling well. “A lot of our training is through gameplay, repetitive high-speed balls in and that’s fantastic for myself who has spent a lot of the off-season doing a lot of that off-field conditioning.
“I’ve already been able to link up well with new players, but in particular it’s been really enjoyable to be back with Michelle (Heyman), Nikki (Flannery) we have played for so long together and that connection hasn’t been lost it just had to be found again.”
Canberra have a number of exciting additions, Grace Jale, Grace Taranto, and Ellie Brush are just three that are tipped to make a big impact. But one of the biggest names to return is star attacker Nikki Flannery. The winger had a sensational 2020/21 season, but missed the last campaign with an ACL injury. Maher says her comeback is a huge boost for the club.
“There’s a really lovely feeling to the squad. everyone are really genuine people and down to earth. That just makes training more enjoyable because you’re all putting in but we’re all friends off the field.
“The return of my best friend is so exciting for the team because she’s loved in Canberra, she’s a hard worker. No one would have wished on her what she went through last year and missing the league.”
Grace Maher on the return from injury of Nikki Flannery.
“I’m sure she’ll find her stride throughout the season, and I’m sure you’ll see a more exciting Nikki Flannery. Off the field she’s a real personality, she’s light-hearted and known to have a joke about herself.
“It’s great for the team on the park and off it too.”
From legendary ball kid to star midfielder
Above: Grace Maher – a long-time hero of the Canberra United fans. Photo: Canberra Times.
Maher is an entertaining and essential player at the club that has regularly been competitive. Canberra United are the only A-League Women’s side without a men’s club attached, but that potential disadvantage is also a strength. There is a reason that players like her and league legend Michelle Heyman continue to return.
“I have to put it down to the fans and the culture that the club has and the relationship between the players, the staff, and the community that we have in Canberra,” says Maher
“Obviously we’re very fortunate that we are the only professional football team in Canberra, so we feel that love. The Canberra football community has given me so much.
“My first W-League contract at 15…there’s this real sense of loyalty. I think we’re very loyal players. I love playing here.
“My family are here and there’s no better feeling after games, getting that support from everyone, friends, family, and people who have become friends through their following of Canberra United.”
Maher has spent seasons away. One at Melbourne Victory and another in Iceland with KR Women’s Football. But the lure of the club she supported as a child remained. She grew up idolising players like Sally Shipard and Caitlin Munoz. The latter eventually became a teammate and mentor, although they first met under unusual and now almost mythical circumstances when Maher was a 13-year-old ball kid.
Above: Grace Maher in action for Melbourne Victory during her time there. Photo: Canberra Times.
“To this day we say it was Caitlin Munoz who missed the goal that broke my wrist,” she recalls.
“My mum is quite well known in the football community here, she organized to get me along to a signing session. It was where I got my cast signed.
“It was actually the day of my debut with Canberra United in 2014 that we were warming up at McKellar Park and Catherine Brown said, ‘do you guys remember that ball kid who broke her arm at training?’
“I was sitting there going ‘oh my god, no one knows it me.’
Maher offered to bring the cast in as proof. It’s an item that she still cherishes, although the star midfielder remains a cautionary tale around the club.
“It’s a story that’s also told to ball girls that you don’t need to be a hero to stop a shot, wait for the ball the bounce, then go get it.”
Maher is now a senior player at her hometown club. She emulates her heroes in the Canberra United midfield and plays with a calmness that belies the constant danger that she presents to the opposition.
Above: Grace Maher celebrating a big moment for Canberra United during the 2020/21 season. Photo: Canberra United.
There have been many factors in how she has developed as a player.
“I look now at the similarities in personalities with my parents. I first noticed that my dad is very analytical and calm and that’s completely in my game. And then my mum has a little bit more grunt and isn’t afraid to get stuck in so that’s been coming through as well.
“Growing up I was a big fan of futsal. I played that until I came into A-League Women, which was a summer sport, so I had to stop that. Close ball work, ball mastery is something that I’ve always been working on.”
Although her defensive abilities have improved throughout her career, it is as a midfield conductor where Maher does her best work, and where fans love to see her.
“I’ve always just loved the fact that you can pull strings on the field,” she says.
“Play smarter not harder.”
An eye on the broader future
Above: Grace Maher (centre) and Canberra United are hoping for a return to Finals football in 2022/23. Photo: Canberra United.
If you were to judge her by her passing game, you might assume Grace Maher can see slightly into the future. Off the field, she is somebody with an attentive eye on it and where the game is headed.
When the PFA announced a new collective bargaining agreement and minimum wage, it was Maher who made the public statement. It’s a role she enjoys.
“I’m naturally a confident person that always going to fight for things I believe in, things that not only affect me but the people I care about and my teammates.
“That role fell naturally to me. It’s not the easiest to have to stand up to clubs and call things out.
“As my dad used to say, the most profitable isn’t what’s best for the players sometimes you need two parties to fight so you get that fairness and happy medium that you’re starting to see in the women’s game with minimum wages and working conditions.
“It’s really amazing to see where its grown in the eight or nine seasons I’ve been a part of the league and if was a 15-year-old walking in now it’d be pretty surreal.”
One of the most significant advances in Australian women’s football is the extension of the season. although it is not a full home and away campaign yet, the longer calendar is something players and fans are happy about.
Above: McKellar Park – home once more to Canberra United this season. Photo: AtRTphotos.
Maher sees the league as more unpredictable, and that more sides will have a chance to get into the title race.
“What’s going to be cool to see this year is with an extended season, there’s going to be a little bit more fairness in the competition.
“You’ll see that the table changes as opposed to those front runners going and winning the league.
“There’s a lot of unknown, teams have swapped around so much and new players have emerged and older ones have come out of retirement. With that unknown, it’s really exciting.”
For Canberra United in particular, Maher says that they expect to be competitive in every match. They have the talent to beat anybody on their day, and are striving for consistency.
“We don’t rely on individuals, we’re just a strong team where no matter what the result, the opposition will walk off the feeling ‘that was hard, we do not want to play that again, especially at McKellar Park.
“I think we have some really talented players and if we can work towards what makes Canberra United Canberra United then we’ll hit the ground running and cause an upset or two.”
Above: Millwall celebrate after scoring against Gillingham on Sunday. Photo: Keith Gillard via Millwall Lionesses.
by Kai Bennett
Millwall Lionesses manager Jack Wheeler was extremely proud of his side after they pushed Gillingham, a team from two leagues above them all the way before eventually losing 5-4 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in extra time in their FA Cup First Round tie.
The Lionesses were ten seconds away in extra time from winning the tie before Gillingham, from the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier got their equaliser.
Millwall started well and nullified the visitors in the opening stages but halfway through the first-half Gillingham took the lead with an effort from long range from Mel Espinosa.
That wasn’t to dampen the spirits of The Lionesses and Jade Keogh’s corner that went all the way in equalised before half time.
The second half was dominated by the South London club but the Gills keeper Davies made some good saves to deny Millwall a winner in normal time.
Above: Gillingham play the pass under pressure from their London & SE Regional Premier hosts. Photo: Keith Gillard via Millwall Lionesses.
The Lionesses took the lead, however, in extra-time when Lauren Williams won possession high before teeing up Lucy Jellett who finished brilliantly.
Serena Hand made some big stops in the last ten minutes before Gillingham equalised when the ball was tapped into an empty net, in what was heartbreak for The Lionesses.
The visitors won the game on penalties, winning 5-4 to progress to Round Two of the FA Cup.
Wheeler said: “I’m really proud of the girls, we stuck to the game plan really well and they left everything out on the pitch.
“All we asked them to do at the start of the game was to try and work as hard as they possibly could and take the game to Gillingham. We’ve watched them this week so we knew the strengths and weaknesses and how we wanted to set up and we dealt with that accordingly.
Above: Millwall in possession against Gillingham in their FA Cup tie on Sunday. Photo: Keith Gillard via Millwall Lionesses.
“I’m really pleased with how we did and to concede with the last kick in extra time, those fine margins make the biggest difference.
“But we learn and we move on, I’m really pleased with the team and how they stuck together really as staff and as players.
“I’m really pleased and just making sure we continue this momentum that we’ve got in terms of good positive performances and if we can do that I would back my team against anyone in this league and anyone in the league above. It shows that today from what they’ve done, both us as staff and players should be really proud of themselves today.”
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