Impetus’ Martin Townley rounds up all the weekend’s action across the three Adran Leagues (15/11/22).
Above: Celebrations for Cardiff City who are now five points clear at the top of the Adran Premier. Photo: Cardiff City.
Cardiff City hold a five-point lead at the top of the Genaro Adran Premier after a 3-1 win over city rivals Cardiff Met. The New Saints and Pontypridd United drew 2-2 while Aberystwyth Town thrashed Barry Town 5-1. Wrexham retained their 100% record in the Adran North while Cascade YC keep second spot in the Adran South.
Adran Premier
Cardiff City 3-1 Cardiff Met
Rhianne Oakley opened the scoring for the Bluebirds after ten minutes after she was played in by Lil Billingham. Oakley has been fantastic for Cardiff City this season and got the second heading home from a Seren Watkins corner just before half-time.
City started the second half quickly and Danielle Broadhurst added a third. Erin Murray pulled a goal back from the spot, but the Archers were unable to come back and are now six points behind their city rivals.
The New Saints 2-2 Pontypridd United
Above: TNS’ Emily Ridge in possession. She opened the scoring at Park Hall. Photo: F28.Online via TNS.
Emily Ridge opened the scoring at Park Hall netting after 38 minutes giving TNS the lead. Just after half-time, Alison Witts equalised for the visitors and they soon took the lead. Jasmine Turner scoring after 54 minutes.
There was drama to come as TNS levelled with two minutes to play when Isobel Redding headed in from a Chantelle Teare corner. TNS stay in fifth place with 10 points while Pontypridd hold on to fourth place with 11 points.
Aberystwyth Town 5-1 Barry TownUnited
Above: Barry Town United drive away with the ball. Photo: Barry Town United.
Aberystwyth moved above Barry into sixth place after a 5-1 win at Park Avenue. Emily Thomas with the first goal just three minutes into the game. Shauna Chambers made it 2-0 after 13 minutes as Aber started well. With 19 minutes gone, Rebecca Mathias put the Green and Blacks three up as Barry failed to get going. Ffiona Evans made it 4-0 before the break.
Barry stopped the goals going in at the start of the second half, and Mackenzie Olden pulled a goal back with 74 minutes gone. Hopes of an unlikely comeback were ended three minutes later as Barry captain Lauren Harris was sent off. Amy Jenkins added a fifth for Aberystwyth on 79 minutes.
Table From: Adran Premier
Adran North
In the Adran North, Wrexham still lead the table after a 9-0 hammering of Airbus UK. Goals from Rebecca Pritchard, Tonicha Dickens, along with a hat trick for Ava Suckley and four for Amber Lightfoot.
CPD Y Rhyl 1897 move into fourth place after their 2-0 win over Llanfair United. Rebecca Bannister give Rhyl the lead and Niomi Taylor added a second as Rhyl ran out winners at Belle Vue.
Table From: Cymru Football
Adran South
Cascade YC kept the pressure on leaders Briton Ferry Llansawel with a 4-1 win over Swansea University. Cascade came out quickly in this game with Sian Rees giving them the lead after 10 minutes. Annaliese Lewis added a second after 28 minutes. Lewis completed a hat trick in the second half before Angelika Barris pulled a goal back for Swansea Uni.
Impetus’ Darrell Allen provides his weekly round-up of all the women’s football action in Norfolk (15/11/22).
Above: Ellie Smith who scored Norwich City’s opening goal and won Player of the Match in their win against Enfield Town in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup First Round. Photo: Norwich City Women FC.
Main Match of the Week
Thetford Town 7-2 Bungay Town
Thetford Town produced a wonderful display of attacking football to come from 2-0 down and comprehensively thrash Bungay Town at Mundford Road.
Bungay Town thought they were in charge of the game as Selina Rowland scored a brace to give them a two-goal lead but Chelsea Page crucially halved the deficit before the interval before second-half braces from Laura Martins and Kerby Colgan plus further goals from Rebecca White and Rachel Lynch saw Thetford claim a stunning win.
It wasn’t all plain sailing though as like in their previous home match against the University of East Anglia, Thetford started sloppily and Bungay sensed their opportunity to pounce on their hosts.
Bungay Town captain Charnelle Riggall had the first shot at goal before Selina Rowland pounced and finished beyond Millie Askins in the Thetford Town goal to give the visitors the lead inside two minutes.
It wasn’t long before Bungay did double their advantage as Rowland beat the offside trap and was one on one with Askins with only one outcome expected as the experienced Rowland calmly slotted past Askins.
Above: Courtney Musgrove, who won Thetford Town’s Player of the Match on the afternoon for a superb all-action display. Photo: Ben Cunningham
Thetford were urged by their bench of David Skipp, Stuart Terry, and Amber Browne were ordered to lift it. The team responded to the cries in stunning fashion.
Chelsea Page was first on the Thetford scoresheet as she finished emphatically on 26 minutes to half the deficit at the break.
David Skipp introduced Laura Martins to the stage at half time and what followed was poetry in motion. Laura lit up the park and produced one of the greatest individual football performances I have ever witnessed.
First, she glided brilliantly with some wonderful footwork down the left to find Rebecca White who precisely shot home to level the scores.
Above: Rebecca White scored her first goal of the season for Thetford Town in Sunday’s win vs Bungay Town. Photo: Ben Cunningham
Then, nine minutes later, a perfectly placed header from Martins that completed the turnaround to give Thetford the lead for the first time in the afternoon.
That was followed by Martins’ best moment as she danced around three defenders before curling a brilliant shot over the keeper to make the lead comfortable. It will be remembered for a while at Mundford Road.
Martins, brings an energy and enthusiasm for football that is contagious, the crowd is on the edge of their seat watching her and the other players bounce off her dynamic ability and talent.
Above: Laura Martins who scored a superb brace for Thetford Town. Photo: Ben Cunningham
Next up, Thetford defender Rachel Lynch decided she wanted to be involved in the headlines again and when a free kick was won on the left in the most impossible angle. Lynch decided to put the ball down, signal to the crowd she was going to score before curling an incredible free kick right down the centre of the goal, over the keeper’s head, and in before turning to the crowd to lap up the plaudits. This was just outrageous, the audacity, the cheek, and confidence as the centre-back made it three goals in three league starts this season.
Due to the luxurious position Thetford found themselves in, manager David Skipp was able to introduce new striker Kerby Colgan for her debut who scored two thunderous goals in the final stages of the game to add further gloss with goals six and seven to complete an incredible day at Mundford Road.
For Thetford, this was their fifth straight win in all competitions, and life is just brilliant for the club right now as they sit second in the table riding a crest of a wave however they will be aware they cannot keep allowing teams head starts every week.
For Bungay Town, a fantastic first half, followed by a calamitous second but in what is a rebuilding year for the club, they will win more games than they lose and achieve their target comfortably of staying in the league this season.
Tier Four Norwich City recorded a 2-0 victory over Enfield Town from the division below thanks to goals from Ellie Smith and Megan Todd.
Tier Five King’s Lynn Town were comprehensively beaten 12-0 by FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Divisions. Billericay Town. The team from two leagues above eased through asZoe Rushen scored four with Sophie Mcclean getting a brace with further goals coming from Jess King, Beau Parker, Charlotte O’Shea, Jay Blackie, Holly Turner, and Che Thomas.
Tier Seven Mulbarton Belles put up a brave fight but were defeated 8-1 by tier three Milton Keynes. A wonderful goal by Sophie Jermy was the highlight for the Norfolk side with MK goals coming from a Mollie Coupar hat-trick, a brace from Lucy Wood plus further goals from Nicole Pepper, Amy Mclean, and Laura Mitchell.
Eastern Region League Cup First Round
In an all-tier Six affair, Fakenham Town won a thrilling cup tie 3-2 over Lawford after extra time. The game went to an extra half hour after Chloe Gravett and Vicky Lubbock scored for Fakenham Town with Georgia Box and Sam Elliot scoring for Lawford. It was Sophie Lubbock who then won it for Fakenham Town.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One
A single goal from Georgia Belton was enough to give Dussindale & HellesdonRovers an important away win at Sprowston in a game they had to work very hard to win.
University of East Anglia continued their fine start to their inaugural season in Division One by beating Beccles Town 5-1, four goals from Freya Fuller plus a goal from Cassandra Piejko secured the win with Lola Barber King scoring for Beccles.
Caister recorded a much-needed victory with a 5-0 away win at Stalham Town thanks to braces from Olivia Broughton and Beth Turner with Leanne Muffett scoring the other.
Above: Rebecca Sutton (left) on the attack for Thorpe St Andrew in their 8-2 win at Shrublands. Photo: Thorpe St Andrew FC.
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two
Gorleston secured a fine 9-0 home win over Freethorpe thanks to braces from Hazel Saddington, Megan Bartlett, and Mary Croft with Kelsi Adams, Rebecca Waters, and Joana Patrica Da Cunha Teixeira scoring the others.
FC Viking Valkyries won a thrilling game at Horsford thanks to goals from Paige Hill, Chloe Ward, and Faye Albarn with Horsford goals coming from a Robyn Nash brace.
King’s Lynn Soccer Club were 5-0 winners over Bulldogs FC thanks to a hat-trick from Jordan Turner, a goal from Lucy Clarke, and an own goal.
Aylsham were 4-0 winners at North Walsham thanks to a brace from Hannah Claughton and Brooke Osborne and Carly Allum also finding the scoresheet.
Thorpe St. Andrew were 8-2 winners at Shrublands thanks to four goals from Abi Simmons, a brace from Poppy Le-Beau, and other goals from Rebecca Sutton and Natasha Frankland. Shrublands had Rachel Adams and Lacey Andrews to thank for their goals.
It was SWF Championship & League One Cup Semi-Final day yesterday. Here’s what happened at Airdrie (14/11/22).
Above: Dryburgh Athletic (claret and blue) battle it out with Rossvale. Photo: Kelly Nielson.
Dryburgh Athletic 3-0 Rossvale
Supplied by Scottish Women’s Football
Championship and League One Cup holders Dryburgh Athletic are through to the final once more, after a Megan Robb double and second half goal from Alma Codegoni saw off Glasgow side Rossvale in the semi-final in Airdrie.
With the ball moving quick from the off, it was Rossvale who looked brighter in the opening exchanges, with the sides trading possession in the midfield.
After four minutes, forward Joss Fletcher beat the last defender to find herself through on goal but put it just left of the post, a chance Rossvale would perhaps look back on as the opportunity which could have created some momentum.
At the other end, Rossvale keeper Rachel Docherty was alive to the threat from balls over the top for Codegoni and Chelsey Lownie to run onto.
But after 14 minutes, Dryburgh utilised the same counter attacking speed which had won them last year’s final, Megan Robb latching onto to an inch-perfect through ball from new signing Hannah Innes and made no mistake, taking her time to place a shot beyond Docherty.
Rossvale grafted their way into the box a number of times, but the Dryburgh backline led by an assured Sophie Aitken successfully crowded out first Fiona Cullie then Melissa Porter.
It was another quick counter-attack that gave Megan Robb the chance for her second, making no mistake after a solo run on the left to fire home on the 40-minute mark.
Rossvale dug in to win back initiative, and there was a scare for the Dundee side as Robb collapsed to the turf after a challenge late in the half but she was deemed OK to continue for now.
Rossvale started brightly in the second half, winning two free kicks from out on the right in quick succession, but again their forwards could not find room amongst the Dryburgh back line to get a touch on the deliveries.
Then another break by Dryburgh at the other end saw Rossvale concede a corner that they failed to deal with, leaving Alma Codegoni to slide in at the near post for Dryburgh’s third amid the maelstrom.
Rossvale responded by bringing on Rachel Ashe, Elise Weiringa and Louise McJacobs to see whether they might get more joy against the Dryburgh back line.
But as the game wore on the frustration from the Glasgow side showed. McJacobs received a talking to from the ref for an elbow in the back of Zoe Moreland, and Megan Robb was brought down with a clumsy tackle right in front of the dugouts on the 80-minute mark.
This was just after Robb had produced some trickery on the edge of the box on the hunt for her hat-trick, but it was not to be as she was unable to continue and required medical attention.
Neither side found much rhythm in the closing stages, Derrian Gollan breaking into the Rossvale box without managing to carve out a chance, and Lauren McCulloch in the Rossvale midfield cutting a frustrated figure as she tried to get the ball down and play.
Dryburgh now have another final to look forward to, with the Championship and League One Cup culminating in a showdown in Alloa on 11 December, and will be hoping their cup specialist Megan Robb recovers.
FC Edinburgh 4-2Ayr United
Supplied by Scottish Women’s Football
Above: FC Edinburgh celebrate a goal against Ayr United. Photo: Alex Todd.
FC Edinburgh are through to the final of the Championship and League One cup after a tense 4-2 victory over Ayr United in the semi-final at Airdrie’s Excelsior stadium.
In a frantic game played at breathtaking speed, it was the capital club’s midfielders Danielle Forsyth, Emma Mitchell and Hannah Markley finding the scoresheet alongside forward Deborah Mcleod, amid a spirited response from Ayr United.
From the start Ayr United were timing their tackles well, but FC Edinburgh’s ferocious pace had the Championship side on the back foot from the off, with winger Jayden Simmons causing all kind of mischief on the right. On ten minutes, McLeod drifted past a defender on the same side and sent a cross across the box, with Edinburgh’s captain Forsyth drifting in at the back post to stroke it past Ayr keeper Mollie Mackenzie. Then five minutes later Emma Mitchell latched onto a ball on the edge of the box and rifled a volley in for Edinburgh’s second.
Ayr United worked to get back into the game, but with FC Edinburgh doubling up on Championship top scorer Rachel Scott, chances were limited. Edinburgh keeper Schenai Gamrot did well to get to a dipping free kick from Clare Docherty from distance on 24 minutes, with the rebound eluding the ever-dangerous Scott who had followed the ball in. Hannah Taysum got her head to a Docherty corner on 36 minutes but could not guide it towards goal.
At the other end, a corner landed at the feet of Forsyth at the back post again, but she blasted over the bar. A well-timed lob forward by Docherty gave Scott the space she had been looking for on forty minutes, the young Ayr striker producing a good finish to Gamrot’s right but the keeper dove acrobatically to palm the shot to safety. But Docherty would find the net two short minutes later, the ball rebounding her strike off the upright right back into her path for her to lash home and set up a competitive second half.
The second half continued the frantic pace, with both teams forcing each other into errors and fouls as a sense of frustration began to build. A clash of heads between Ayr’s Jodie Barbour and Hannah Markley on the hour mark saw both leave the field but able to return to play quickly.
Ayr defender Lauren McBlain saw yellow on 71 minutes for persistent fouling after twice body-checking the Edinburgh midfielder, but both sides were showing signs of frustration, the normally composed Mitchell skying a ball over the bar when she had had more time with twelve minutes to go.
A clever one-two between McLeod and Simmons carved open a great chance for Edinburgh to seal it, the cross finding McLeod unmarked on the penalty spot but she could only head into Mackenzie’s arms. But a similar cross from Simmons found Hannah Markley shortly after and she made no mistake for Edinburgh’s third.
Ayr surged forward with urgency, and found a reply within a minute, Jodie Barbour cutting through a goal-mouth scramble to poke the ball into the roof of the net from point-blank range.
But Jayden Simmons’ pace outdid Ayr again at the death, as the winger kept the ball in play on the touchline and threaded the ball into the path of Deborah Mcleod, who had ample time to place the ball into the net and send the SWF League One leaders into the final.
Above: Rosie Russell in possession for AFC Wimbledon at Selsey. Photo: Emily Topping via AFC Wimbledon.
AFC Wimbledon’s FA Cup run continued in fine fashion, winning 5-1 at FA Women’s National League Division One South-West side Selsey. Another Ashlee Hincks hat-trick and an Ellie Dorey brace ensured progression into the second round proper.
After beating QPR 7-1 in the previous round, the Dons were full of confidence going into the game.
However, the visitors got off to a poor start with Selsey forcing Dons ‘keeper Faye Baker into a couple of fine saves. Halfway through the first half, Selsey took advantage of a defensive mix-up with Natasha Wild opening the scoring for the home side.
With 10 minutes remaining of the first half, AFC Wimbledon were forced to make their first substitution of the day, as a clash in the opposition goalmouth ended in Megan Stow replacing defender Billie Brooks. Just before the end of the first half, Emily Donovan found the feet of Ellie Dorey, who had no issue converting the chance to level the score.
There was more drama before the break when Gloria Siber was brought down inside the penalty area. The referee showed Selsey’s Maisie Guymer the red card, and Ashlee Hincks buried the shot from the penalty spot, ensuring a 2-1 lead from the first 45.
In the second half, the Dons found another gear against the 10 Selsey players, and completely dominated the game. With 55 minutes on the clock, Wimbledon doubled their lead when Dorey bundled the ball in from close range, as the Selsey keeper failed to deal with a Hincks corner.
At 71 minutes, the Dons made their second substitution of the day, when Impetus-sponsored Mia Lockett replaced Ellie Dorey on the left wing.
Wimbledon continued to pile on the pressure, with both Lockett and Siber having some great runs on the wing.
With 10 minutes to go, Hincks got her second of the day after some lovely play from Siber down the right wing.
The Dons still had more in them, and in added time a Lockett pass reached Hincks, who completed her hat trick.
“We started a little bit slower than we wanted to, struggled a little bit with the heavy pitch. But once we finally got ourselves sorted and got the tempo to where we want it we turned up and welcomed ourselves to party.”
Andy May, AFC Wimbledon coach.
The draw for the next round has been made and the Dons will host FA Women’s National League Southern Premier side Billericay Town (a league above Wimbledon) in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup 2nd round on Sunday 27th November.
Ben Gilby reports on Australiahead coach TonyGustavsson‘s media conference today as hereflected on Saturday’s superb win against Sweden and laid down his expectations ahead of tomorrow’s game with Thailand. PlusKris Goman‘s EXCLUSIVE photos from today’s training session in Gosford (14/11/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson speaking today from Gosford. Image: Football Australia.
Matildas’ boss Tony Gustavsson is thrilled by the fact that his players and coaching staff can see the fruits of almost two years of hard work at last.
“I said in the circle (huddle) after the Sweden game that I thanked them for their belief and patience in the process that I put in place. It’s been a tough journey that we’ve been on and we needed to grow depth in the roster and bring more young players in. We needed to play more European teams, against top opposition. To do all that at the same time is tough, mentally.
“The players were really happy in their performance against Sweden as they felt as if things were (finally) coming together. I had that feeling earlier. We saw it for 45 minutes against Canada. We saw it in the October (international) window, now we saw it against Sweden.”
Tony Gustavsson, Australia head coach.
The transition from the first match of an international window to the second is rapid, and the Matildas head coach outlined the realities of that.
“It was a very good feeling after the game (on Saturday). Yesterday was a travel day (from Melbourne to Gosford) and today is preparation for a new game. The challenge is, can we get our mindset right for tomorrow?”
Thailand are familiar opposition, and whilst they are a team that Australia will be expected to beat comfortably, they have a reputation of being stubborn and tough to break down.
Above: Saturday’s star finisher Caitlin Foord was all smiles in training in Gosford today. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
“We can’t be complacent against them. If we look at the last three times we played them, in 2018, it was a tie at half-time. When we played them in 2020 it was 0-0 until the 44th minute, and this year in the Asian Cup it was 0-0 until the 39th minute. We struggled to get it going in all three of those games. Tomorrow we want to get on the front foot from the start, That’s the challenge.”
That challenge is one Gustavsson is determined that his team meet from the opening whistle.
“I would love to see us flying from the beginning tomorrow with that mindset that we had against Sweden, with our transitions and runs. The danger is when you play a team like Thailand who give you less space, is that you stop running. We are a running team, and we need to run tomorrow.
“The number one key is to be patient. Not patient as being slow, but to keep confident that the goals will come. We know they are going to be organised. It’s difficult to make those clear-cut chances.
Above: Alex Chidiac training today in Gosford. There is renewed hope that the Melbourne Victory star will play some part in tomorrow’s game with Thailand. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
There was some positive news on the injury front as the Australia boss gave hope to those longing to see Alex Chidiac reprise her influential midfield role from the October matches against South Africa and Denmark.
“She fully trained today, and we will evaluate her tonight in terms of whether she is available, and if she is, how many minutes she could play. Alanna (Kennedy) is getting better each day. She had her first training session today which was fantastic. She is not available for game time, but we’re grateful to Manchester City for allowing her to come.”
More of Kris Goman’s EXCLUSIVE photos from training in Gosford today:
Above: Katrina Gorry. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Charli Grant focuses in. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Elise Kellond-Knight stretches. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Smiling and back in training – Alanna Kennedy. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Chloe Logarzo in training today. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Amy Sayer training and hoping for some minutes against Thailand. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Cortnee Vine is all smiles. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Report by Ben Gilby with EXCLUSIVE photos from Kieran Chea at AAMI Park
Above: Celebrations for Australia after Sam Kerr put them ahead. Photo: Kieran Chea for Impetus.
Two goals from Caitlin Foord steered Australia to only their second-ever win over Sweden yesterday.
The Arsenal attacker’s brace was added to by strikes from Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler as The Matildas beat the world number two-ranked nation, who had only lost once in 20 matches going into the encounter.
Above: Sam Kerr and Nathalie Björn contest possession. Photo: Kieran Chea for Impetus.
Whilst the Swedes will point to their missing attackers Kosovare Asllani, Lina Hurtig, and Fridolina Rolfö, the Matildas were also without key players Ellie Carpenter, Kyah Simon, and Alanna Kennedy. Regardless, this was a hugely impressive outcome for Tony Gustavsson’s team.
Australia had the first opportunity as Kyra Cooney-Cross got through and won a corner. Kerr headed wide from the set piece.
Above: Johanna Rytting Kaneryd stuck the woodwork for Sweden. Photo: Kieran Chea for Impetus.
Overall, Sweden were the strongest side in the opening 45. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd hit the angle of post and bar, and Clare Polkinghorne was forced to clear the ball off the line.
The visitors were able to nullify the threat of Cooney-Cross and Cortnee Vine for most of the opening half, but that would change in some style after the break. Australia were finding it challenging to produce the final ball as they closed in on the Swedish goal and with Madelen Janogy hugely influential across the front line and in her ability to drop both deep and wide, it was the Scandinavians who had the upper hand.
Above: Sweden’s Madelen Janogy (second left) had an influential first half. Kieran Chea for Impetus.
However, the one thing that Sweden couldn’t do is get on the scoresheet. They were made to pay eight minutes before the break when a typically marauding run from Hayley Raso ended with the Manchester City winger finding Kerr in the box to poke home.
Australia were red-hot from the kick-off of the second half and didn’t let up. Putting Gustavsson’s mantra of fast-paced pressing attacking football into action, Raso’s backheel released Cooney-Cross who in turn found Foord. The Arsenal star is in career-best form and cut inside to steer a sensational shot into the corner of the net.
Above: Cortnee Vine looks to square the ball across the box. Photo: Kieran Chea for Impetus.
Confidence coursed through the Matildas and Cooney-Cross, loudly supported by the Melbourne Victory fans that idolised her in this very stadium during her A-League Women spell was all over it. Those on-point switches of play were back and a joy to see as the 20-year-old gun mixed it and prospered against the world’s second-ranked side.
It could have been three when, from a corner, Kerr flicked a header across to Raso who couldn’t quite direct her shot on target, with the ball dribbling agonisingly wide by centimetres.
Her Manchester City teammate Mary Fowler came on just after the hour mark and within 10 minutes put the Matildas’ fans in dreamland when her angled shot deflected into the net.
Above: Katrina Gorry’s eyes up the ball. Photo: Kieran Chea for Impetus.
Foord made it 4-0 with 12 minutes remaining with substitute Emily van Egmond claiming an assist.
This was Australia’s first win over Sweden since 1997. It also extended their present winning run to three matches, with 11 goals scored in those matches. With Thailand to follow in Gosford on Tuesday, all is set for a celebratory evening on the Central Coast as the Matildas end their campaign for 2022 before moving into a home World Cup year.
Above: The Matildas post match. Photo: Kieran Chea for Impetus.
Above: Rossvale celebrate a goal this season. They will be all out to make the SWF League Cup Final this weekend. Photo: Kelly Nielson.
SWF League Cup Semi-Final News & Final Venue:
The final of the SWF Championship and League One Cup will take place in Clackmannanshire in the heart of Scotland on the 11th December 2022.
Kicking off at 2pm after the Sky Sports SWPL Cup Final between Rangers and Hibernian, the game at The Indodrill Stadium in Alloa will be live streamed by Scottish Women’s Football, offering fans of women’s football a great opportunity to watch a double bill of exciting finals.
The semi-finals of the cup are taking place this Sunday (13th November) and will see either Glasgow club Rossvale, featuring Impetus sponsored Lauren Coleman or Dundee’s Dryburgh Athletic take a place in the final.
In the second matchup, either Ayr United or FC Edinburgh will claim the other final place. Both ties will take place at Airdrieonians FC’s Excelsior Stadium.
Above: Alloa Athletic’s Indodrill Stadium, the venue for the SWPL and SWF Championship & League One Cup Finals this season. Photo: Geoff Jackson.
Speaking about the venue for the match, Scottish Women’s Football CEO Aileen Campbell said: “I’m delighted we are bringing a major national final to Clackmannanshire, offering girls across the ‘Wee County’ the opportunity to take in top competitive action. And for the first time, Women’s Football fans across Scotland will be able to watch a double bill of cup finals, with Sky Sports broadcasting the SWPL Cup final then fans can tune into what will be a fiercely competitive Championship and League One final.
“Of course, we have the small matter of two exciting semi-finals in Airdrie to come this weekend. There is still a chance to get tickets for those matches at the Excelsior Stadium in Airdrie on Sunday for just £6 for adults and £2 for children. I wish all four teams luck, and may the best of them reach the final in a month’s time.”
Above: Rangers celebrate a goal against Benfica in their UEFA Champions League First Round match this season at Ibrox. Photo: SWPL.
Scotland looks set to have two teams feature within the 2023/24 UEFA Women’s Champions League based on the provisional access list provided by UEFA.
Scotland is currently ranked 13th in the coefficient. This means the SWPL champions will enter the Champions Path and the SWPL runners-up will enter the League Path, both at Round One.
SWPL Managing Director, Fiona McIntyre, said: “This is positive news for the SWPL and the whole of the girls and women’s game. This will provide a valuable opportunity for two SWPL teams to compete at the highest level of European football.
Both Rangers and Glasgow City competed in this year’s competition. Glasgow City entered the League Path and hosted Paris FC, Servette, and AS Roma at Petershill Park in Round One. Despite a competitive showing, City were defeated 3-1 by AS Roma to end their journey in the competition.
Above: Glasgow City (sky blue) taking on Swiss side Servette in the UEFA Champions League First Round this season. Photo: SWPL.
Rangers managed to successfully navigate through Round One of Champions Path in Greece before meeting Benfica in Round 2. A 1-0 win in the second leg in Portugal took the game to extra-time where Benfica prevailed 5-3 on aggregate.
“Both Glasgow City and Rangers were exemplary representatives of Scotland, and the SWPL, in this year’s UEFA Women’s Champions League competition” added Fiona. “I know both were disappointed not to reach the Group Stage (last 16) and I’m sure both clubs, amongst a number of other SWPL sides, will be desperate for the opportunity to compete again next season in Europe’s premier competition.”
The final day of the 2022/23 SWPL season is 21st May and SWPL teams will start their 2023/24 UEFA Women’s Champions League journey on 6th September 2023.
Ahead of tomorrow’s friendly in Melbourne, Impetus hears from Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson and Sweden chief Peter Gerhardsson (11/11/22).
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson speaking to the media today. Image: Football Australia.
It’s All About “Pressing Attacking Football”
Matildas’ head coach Tony Gustavsson outlined in his media conference the key expectation for his team this international window.
One of the phrases that Gustavsson used repeatedly with the media today was “pressing attacking football. It’s his mantra, it’s what he wants to see, and is aware of the consequences of the potential of conceding goals that it comes with.
“Getting a ticket for the Matildas means they (the fans) know they will get pressing and attacking football. The players are so excited to be back and want to create a good feeling for the fans, particularly as our last group game in the World Cup will be played here.”
“We play a high-octane game and that tells on the legs. In the last 30 minutes, that’s when you need the fans. Let’s do that tomorrow together.”
“People might mention clean sheets. No. We need to score more goals than the opposition. We need to stay true to who we are. I’ve said it from day one, we are a pressing team. Can we do that against a top team when we’re still missing players, or will we cop three goals and therefore need to score four?”
Tony Gustavsson, Australia head coach.
In terms of getting the players in the right positions to deliver this type of play, Australia’s head coach highlighted how high his standards are.
“I was a bit disappointed yesterday (in training) as the players looked flat which frustrated me. Today was gold standard. As today was a bit more intensive, we had a few knocks and so there are two question marks over selection tomorrow. I won’t identify them now as that may influence Sweden’s preparations. One blocked a shot with her foot and tweaked it.”
The Matildas’ last international action, which delivered impressive performances against South Africa in London and Denmark, saw an injury-ridden Australia try out some new combinations – with some excellent performances seen as a consequence. Gustavsson outlined how these deserve to be rewarded for the sake of ensuring his team has the best group of players as possible for the World Cup.
“Whilst we say we want continuity, that doesn’t mean that everyone is guaranteed (a place in the squad). It’s down to them if they want to be involved in the World Cup, as a starter, as a game changer. There is competition for spots now. I can challenge the players. In the last camp, some players took advantage of the opportunity so they need a second chance to see if they can step up against a top-level team.
“We are not talking about (always selecting) the best players, but the best link of players, the best collective team.
“We can beat a second or third-tier team, we need to prove we can against a top-level team. We are still missing players, particularly at the back, so I’m curious to see how we go tomorrow. Some of the scorelines have blinded people from the performances. We were very good against Canada in the first half.”
With Elise Kellond-Knight back in contention to play a part in this international window, Gustavsson spoke of her return being a careful balancing act.
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson was in a positive mood ahead of tomorrow’s match with Sweden. Image: Football Australia.
“KK has had a couple of 90 minutes behind her, 60s and 45s. We need to be calm and low with expectations with her. She has come back and we need to see how long it takes her to make the step from clubland to international football. She has a fantastic role within the team. Her role with Kyra Cooney-Cross at Hammarby shows that in helping to develop Kyra as a player.”
Asked if he was concerned that Sam Kerr hasn’t scored as regularly in international football as some may wish, the Matildas’ head coach emphasised the reality of the situation.
“Sam came back to us after she needed a break mentally and physically. She didn’t play in June, and was ill during the last window. It’s not about her being in best form now, it’s about the World Cup.
“You can see very clearly if you look at club performances, players in form with clubs, perform with national teams. Form comes from club land. Coming into this camp, we have goals and assists from a lot of players from other players around the squad not just Sam.”
With Gustavsson facing off against the country of his birth once more tomorrow, he made it very clear that whilst he expects a tough match, it’s all about the green and gold tomorrow. “Peter (Gerhardsson – Sweden head coach) is a phenomenal coach. They have continuity over time. Look at their tournament results – semi-finals, finals. Do I want to beat them? Of course I do! The amount of times I’ve played Sweden in tournaments and friendlies is a lot. I would love to play them in the (World Cup) final.”
“I Want To Beat My Boy, I Want To Beat Tony!”
Above: Sweden head coach Peter Gerhardsson speaking to the media in Melbourne today. Image: Football Australia.
Sweden head coach Peter Gerhardsson emphasised how important it was to him and his team to make the long journey to Australia to face the Matildas in preparation for next year’s World Cup.
“It is very important for us to be here to get used to it. We had the first day and saw how much we could do (with jet lag). It is very individual with how it impacts the players. It is not the same as when we have training sessions in Europe. We had to be careful. It was a low load. Yesterday was better.
“The whole preparation is for the World Cup. We come out here on 10th July (next year) and play our first match on 23rd. We will have one training game whilst here and (we will) work out when the best time to play it will be after seeing how quick we recover after a match after the training and travel this time round.”
Gerhardsson revealed that his squad of 21 players are all fit for tomorrow’s game in Melbourne and is expecting a strong test against a team he sees as having many similarities with his own.
“Australia for us are good to meet. We know Tony and his tactics. Yet for me, it is (all about) what we can do. Tactically, it is interesting. They (Australia) change their formations in games. When you look at the Australia squad and the Sweden squad it is similar. Australia have five players in Sweden, we have about the same. The same number play in England, with top clubs there and across Europe.
“We play in an equal way. We both want speed. We both want passing. That’s modern football. If you want to go long in a tournament, speed and transitions are key. The game tomorrow will be like that. Many transitions. This is why I like to meet Australia.”
Above: Sweden head coach Peter Gerhardsson, who wants to get one over close friend Tony Gustavsson tomorrow. Image: Football Australia.
The Sweden head coach was questioned about the threat of Sam Kerr – but whilst full of praise for the Western Australian, he was clear that he knows what to expect and that his own team has threats too.
“Sam is one of the world’s best strikers. We have Stina Blackstenius. Sam is very good and clear what she can do. We do have Magdalena Eriksson too – she can tell us about Sam (being a Chelsea team mate of Kerr), but Sam can tell you about Magda! She is a winner, clever, speedy. It is good for us to meet that kind of player.”
In terms of what he specifically wants to see from his own team tomorrow, Gerhardsson was realistic about the limited control he has in terms of preparations. “The development of a national team is always with the clubs.
“We are nine months from the World Cup. In tournaments, we show we grow into a tournament. That is important. It is not playing a starting 11 now, but to see players, to see relationships. It is the smaller things now. Every game has its own life, so players develop at clubs. It is more important for them to play regular in championships for clubs than to play tomorrow.
“After the game tomorrow. if we see good things, it is about a feeling. It’s about trust. If we play well and do well then there is big trust. We can build it.”
The Swedish head coach comes up against a familiar opponent tomorrow in Matildas’ chief Tony Gustavsson. There is clearly a lot of respect between them.
“I know Tony, I like him. It was close for us to work together before. He was at Hammarby and I was at Helsingborgs and I was thinking of working with him, but Helsingborgs would not let me go. We are good friends. I love to beat my boy! I want to beat Tony!”
In the latest of our series of interviews with Impetus-sponsored players, Evie Nebbitt from tier five London & South-East Regional Premier side Saltdean United spoke to Ben Gilby about her footballing journey, being Sutton United’s youngest-ever captain, and life in Sussex(10/11/22).
Above: Evie Nebbitt showing her joy after a goal for Saltdean United. Photo: Simon Roe. Supplied by: Evie Nebbitt.
Evie Nebbitt is in her first season playing tier five football having made the move from hometown club Sutton United to Saltdean United ahead of this season as she moved to the area to start university.
Nebbitt’s journey to her current position at the Sussex-based club began at a young age as the defender reveals: “I started playing football when I was around eight-years-old after watching my older sister play. She made it look fun and exciting, and it compelled me to have a go. I always used to play for the boys’ teams in primary school before being introduced to woman’s football just before I started high school playing for my local club Carshalton Athletic.
“I then trialed and got into Charlton Athletic at the age of 13 and played academy football for four years learning how to play any position along the back creating diversity in the way I played. It was challenging and pushed me to become a strong version of myself and will forever be grateful for the coaching staff and my teammates.
Above: Evie in action for Charlton Athletic. Photo supplied by: Evie Nebbitt.
“During this time, I also played football for Surrey county and Sutton schools where I was a part of the team that won the London Youth Games in 2017. I also played for my high-school girls’ team in which we won the National Cup with the final being held at the Madejski Stadium, home of Reading FC. This was an amazing experience for a group of young girls, and to top it off I scored two goals which made the day even better.
“At the age of 16, I made the decision to join Sutton United where I went straight into first-team football. I was thrown in the deep end and I wouldn’t have preferred it any other way as I believe it helped me build confidence and made me physically stronger as I was playing against and with older and more experienced players.
“After moving to the University of Sussex, I made the decision to look for a new club in order to play more regularly and locally. I recently signed for Saltdean where I am just finding my feet. All the coaching staff and players have made me feel welcomed and I’m feeling positive and optimistic about this season.”
The defender describes herself as being “a diverse player. I can adapt to play any defensive position when needs be. I also like to push up the pitch too when I play full-back and get involved with the attacking play. I would still describe myself as a young player meaning I am still learning and finding my way.”
Evie’s development from a child finding her feet in the game to her position as a regular starter in tier five is down to a hugely important group of people. “I have been very lucky with all the support I have received through my footballing career so far,” she recognised.
Above: Evie has had the support of her parents from the earliest days – as shown here when she was a youngster. Photo supplied by: Evie Nebbitt.
“Firstly, I have to mention my family such as my parents always taking time out of their days to drive me anywhere for football and supporting me from the sidelines pushing me to do my best, and my brother and sister for encouraging me and inspiring me to get involved with the game.
“I have had many coaches over the years. My real development as a player started at Charlton Athletic when I was being trained by members of the women’s first team at the time. At age 14, that was really inspiring for me and engorged me to learn and aspire to be where they were.
That support network combined with Evie’s own determination has helped her to overcome many challenges on the way. The most prominent barriers that she has faced are very familiar to many female players.
“I think every young female footballer has experienced the situation at least once when she is growing up is someone telling you ‘you can’t do it.’ I started out playing in boys’ teams and I would get told that it wasn’t ‘normal’. From a young age, I have aspired to be the best I can be to prove others wrong.
Evie Nebbitt, Saltdean United.
After her time at Charlton Athletic, Evie returned closer to home to South-West London to join Sutton United, a club who were making rapid progress up the leagues, and indeed this season find themselves as equals to Saltdean United in tier five. The young defender looks back at her time at Gander Green Lane with happiness.
“At Sutton, many changes were made in order to succeed. The formation was changed to a back five with wing backs to fit the team’s playing style which continues to be successful to this day. My manager at the time always had an eye out for new players or coaching staff to help move the team forward.
“One of the great things about Sutton is their youth teams. Players are given the chance to play up and learn from older players and develop to hopefully one day play in the first team.”
One of Evie’s fondest memories of being at the U’s is being given the armband and becoming as a result the club’s youngest-ever captain.
“When I was first told I was going to captain the side, I thought my manager was joking. I was very surprised as there were much older players on the team at the time and wasn’t sure why he picked me. To walk out of the changing room with the girls and support them on the pitch as their captain built my confidence and gave me reassurance in myself that I can be a leader. I am most grateful to be given that experience and to show people what I’m made of.”
During the summer a planned move to University in Sussex led Evie to depart from Sutton and join Saltdean United. Whilst it’s still early days for her at the club, she is enjoying the challenge.
Above: Evie in action for Sutton United where she was the club’s youngest captain. Photo: Paul Loughlin. Supplied by: Evie Nebbitt.
“Everyone down at Saltdean has been great. My coaches Zak (Dove) and Tom (Saunters) have been pushing everyone to be the best version of themselves on the pitch and always take the time to help me individually to improve my performance. They are also firm and if we aren’t playing how they know we can they will tell us and encourage us to step it up. I am one of quite a few new players this season however the team has grown so much already and I am feeling positive about what’s to come.
“The atmosphere before a game is great as we have the music on and some of the girls dancing and singing. I know that the girls would be there for me on my best days and my worst days.
Saltdean United were talked up last season by some observers of the London & South-East Regional Premier as being potential champions, but with injuries decimating the squad at times, the campaign never really got going. Evie points out how the squad is focussed on reaching their potential this time round.
“Everyone worked so hard during pre-season. There are lots of new signings including older, more experienced players and also younger, more impressionable players. Everyone is learning from each other and is helping one another improve. We are learning from each week’s performance and are putting in the effort in training to correct our past mistakes.”
In terms of goal setting for the campaign ahead, the young defender is keen to develop herself both as a person and as a footballer.
“My personal aim is to always listen and learn. I am always keen to improve myself as a player and a person in order to perform the best I can. As a team, I think our aim is to get stronger together and always be improving. Like anyone who plays, we want to he winning and so I believe our aim is to work hard in order to do that.
“But most importantly the overall aim is to enjoy the game like we always have and remind ourselves why we play.”
Impetus was proud to attend the FIFA Volunteer Program Launch atGlen Eira FC, where several Matildas alongside World Cup Mascot Tazuni delighted fans and acknowledged some incredible contributors to the sport. Kieran Yap reports (10/11/22).
Above: Tazuni– the official World Cup mascot makes its first appearance on Australian soil this week. Image courtesy of FIFA.
The draw has been set, the tickets are rapidly selling and over 1.5 million spectators are expected to fill the stands at the 2023 World Cup.
It is shaping up to be one of the biggest sporting events in the world. Australia and New Zealand are seeking volunteers be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
The goal is to recruit as many as 5000 volunteers to assist the huge numbers of fans anticipated to attend. Some notable and prolific volunteers were acknowledged at the event and held up as examples.
Spiros Drossos and Maggie Stavrou received warm welcomes for their seven years of volunteer coaching at Glen Eira.
Natalie Brotherston and Michael Jones have both been volunteering at major events since the Sydney Olympics. Jones is currently contributing to the T20 World Cup, and Brotherston has worked at seven international sporting tournaments.
Rishab Mahajan was one of the first to sign up as a volunteer for the 2023 World Cup and his enthusiasm was clear to see by all in attendance.
They were each presented FIFA Volunteer shirts by Matildas Elise Kellond-Knight, Alex Chidiac, Jada Whyman, and Emma Checker.
Above: The FIFA Volunteers with Tazuni and Matildas, Jada Whyman (L), Alex Chidiac, Emma Checker, and Elise Kellond-Knight. Image courtesy of FIFA
Legacy 23 Ambassador Kate Jenkins said that the football had long relied on volunteers and that being a part of the World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change the game and impact Australian society.
“These clubs run on people who just give their time an energy,” she said from the stage.
“They are also the role models for our kids. They’re the ones who create our community. The 2023 World Cup is the best opportunity not just to promote opportunities for girls in sport, but also opportunities for women and girls across the board.”
The World Cup has big goals off the field, and as Australia’s Sex Discrimination Commissioner, and a long-time member of the football community, Jenkins sees a chance for a long-lasting legacy.
“The aim for us is that football has the legacy of being the first sport that achieved gender parity. I think we can do it. It is my job to get us there.”
Matildas and Melbourne City defender Emma Checker has seen the changes in the game since her career began. Women’s football has a swell of momentum behind it. But she pointed out that it was not always the case.
Above: Emma Checker (centre) with two of Glen Eira FC youngsters. Image courtesy of FIFA
When her career began almost 10 years ago, media coverage was almost non-existent. In 2022 the Women’s Euros enjoyed huge crowds and global coverage, culminating in a packed Wembley Stadium. The 2023 World Cup is likely to be even bigger. Ticket sales have already outperformed the 2019 tournament in France.
“When I look at the change in that decade, it makes me realize just how far we’ve come. “On my debut, I barely had a photo. If you walked down the street and said, ‘do you know who The Matildas are?’ people would say ‘who?’
“It has come so far. Having a home game ten years ago would have been in a community park. Now we’re selling out home games. The excitement and the joy that brings me to see that change is massive.
“The young girls that are coming through now don’t necessarily understand how big that change has been.
“Football globally is so big, but it hasn’t always been that way. It’s taken a lot of hard work from a lot of people top get it to where it is. I feel really privileged to be able to witness that progression.
“There’s no more exciting time that now, we’re on our way up, and hosting a World Cup is the biggest opportunity for growth in the sport.
“I think for us in Australia we were already growing… kids, girls and boys the numbers are climbing, and I think with the timing of the men’s World Cup followed by ours at a time when kids are signing up for next season, its massive.
“You can’t not be drawn in, even if you’ve never watched a game. A World Cup draws a crowd.”
That crowd will need support, local knowledge, and friendly faces to help them navigate the two vast countries.
“The simple answer is, we can’t do this without volunteers,” said Checker. “Volunteers make up such a big part of preparing for these tournaments, and how these tournaments are run. I know as a player it’s something that we’re always forever grateful for.
“We know the hard yards that go behind these tournaments. It’s something that is incredibly important, and I would encourage as many people to get involved as possible.”
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