Norfolk Weekly Wrap

Impetus’ Darrell Allen provides his weekly round-up of all the women’s football action in Norfolk (7/12/22).

Above: Victoria Leyer was the star of the show as Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers beat Thetford Town at The Nest. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos.

Main Match of the Week

Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers 6-2 Thetford Town

Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers continued their relentless start to the Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One season with hat-tricks from Victoria Leyer and Shanice Sutton making it seven wins from eight games as they comfortably dispensed Thetford Town at The Nest.

In the game of the weekend, the top two teams did battle as they looked to take advantage of the lack of action with Thetford knowing a win would knock their opponents off the top spot currently sitting just two points behind their hosts at the start of the day on Sunday.

To Dussindale’s credit, they made sure that was never going to happen although Thetford started the game brightest with Laura Martins and Melissa Boulton linking up and the latter having a shot that went wide of the post.

Victoria Leyer opened the scoring in the first ten minutes calming any early nerves from the home side. From the off Dussindale asserted their authority on the game and looked to put their hosts out of sight as Thetford were pinned in their own half for large spells.

Thetford to their credit remained in the game reminding the crowd there were two teams in this contest with Kamile Omeleviciute going close before Melissa Boulton equalised with a cross-shot that found its way into the net.

Above: Melissa Boulton (Left) levelled the scores for Thetford Town. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos

One of Thetford’s weaknesses when they score against better sides, they have the habit of conceding quickly and it happened again with Leyer grabbing her and Dussindale’s second of the game before Shanice Sutton put the game beyond Thetford doubling their advantage less than 60 seconds later. Thetford had gone from pure joy to being out of the game within less than three minutes which was disappointing for them and the neutrals present.

The second half followed a similar pattern with Thetford giving everything against their superior opponents but Dussindale having too much quality. Sutton made it 4-1 and equalled Leyer’s brace for the afternoon to put the game truly out of sight of the visitors if it wasn’t already.

Above: Thetford Town’s Rachel Lynch left battles with Shanice Sutton of Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos

Laura Martins scored the best goal of the game following receipt of a brilliant ball by Courtney Musgrove as the visitors got the score line back to 4-2 however that was short lived as Leyer completed her hat-trick. Sutton decided she couldn’t allow Leyer to take all the glory and completed her own hat trick 11 minutes from time to put the gloss on a 6-2 win.

For Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers this was a professional job very well done as they asserted their dominance on this game and the league and put any recent talk of UEA, Thetford, or any other teams being in this title race into the bin. It is firmly Dussindale and Hellesdon or Mulbarton going for the title and this result reminded the rest of the league of the gulf in class between the two giants and the rest.

Thetford Town can be proud of their season so far despite the result as it’s a sight of the progress the club has made since last season.

Next up for Thetford is a home tie against Long Stratton at Mundford Road on Sunday in what is a much more important game as David Skipp’s team chases their target of third place this season which would be as good as winning the Division outright.

Teams: DUSSINDALE AND HELLESDON ROVERS: Cole, Bussey, Humphries, Tink, Taylor. Belton, Booker, Leyer, Sutton, Kowalczak, Green. Substitutes: Wilson, Brister, Laffitte, Wilson.

Scorers: Leyer (3), Sutton (3).

THETFORD TOWN: Askins, Bambury, Boulton, Howard, Klimcke, Levy-Twomey, Lloyd, Lynch, Martins, Omeleviciute, Rogers. Subs: Musgrove, Page, Parker.

Scorers: Boulton, Martins

Attendance: 83

Referee: Scott Hawkins

Above: Laura Martins scored the best goal of the game. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos

Eastern Region Premier Division

It was a disappointing day for Norfolk’s teams in Tier Five as Wroxham suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Stevenage after goals from Amy Makewell and Kelsey Millan.

King’s Lynn Town were also beaten 3-2 at Colney Heath. The hosts had a hat trick from Chloe Farrell to thank for their win with King’s Lynn’s goals coming from Amy Magnus and Oksana Imanalijeva.

Eastern Region League Cup Second Round

Fakenham Town were victorious on their travels in the league cup with a 5-1 win over Haverhill Rovers 5-1 thanks to braces from Sophie Lubbock and Chloe Gravett. Olivia Baker grabbed the other goal of the game to ensure Fakenham’s progress to the third round. Haverhill’s consolation goal came from Emma Banks.

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One

Long Stratton were 3-1 winners at home to Stalham with a brace from Luci Middleton and a goal from Charlotte Prince. Stalham’s goal was scored by Abbie Gower.

It was goal crazy at Mulberry Park as Mulbarton Belles beat Sprowston 6-3 with Francesca Catchpole getting a hat-trick, Rebekah Lake’s brace, and Laura Hedtke with the other for Mulbarton. Lyla Studd scored twice for Sprowston with Mollie O’Callaghan getting their other.

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two

Blofield United won a close game 3-2 against Shrublands. Lacey Andrews scored a brace for Shrublands but goals from Lauren Monument, Bailey Duffield, and Lola Eadie saw Blofield take all three points.

Mulbarton Belles Reserves were 4-1 winners at FC Viking Valkyries. A brace from Mara Sosnina plus goals from Megan Anderton and Charlotte Groves saw the visitors take a comfortable win. Cerys Nicholas scored the goal for the hosts.

King’s Lynn Soccer Club were 4-1 winners at Freethorpe thanks to a hat-trick from Jordan Turner and Leeanne Smith getting their other goal. Paris Hay scored for Freethorpe.

Gorleston were 15-0 winners over Horsford. Eight goals were scored by Kelsi Adams, two each from Megan Bartlett, Rebecca Waters, and Joana Patricia Da Cunha Teixeira with Hannah Halfnight getting the remaining goal.

Victory Dodds Trophy North Section

Above: Poppy Loveland strikes for Norfolk Schools FA in their 2-1 win over Suffolk Schools FA on Thursday Night. Photo: Ben Cunningham.

On Thursday night at Mundford Road the home of Thetford Town, Norfolk Schools FA beat Suffolk Schools FA 2-1 thanks to a player of the match performance from Poppy Loveland who scored Norfolk’s second and was instrumental to their success on the night.

Eidevall: Arsenal Primed For Juventus Battle

Ahead of tonight’s UEFA Champions League Group C game at The Emirates, Impetus’ Johnathan Stack joined Arsenal’s pre-game media conference with head coach Jonas Eidevall (7/12/22).

Above: Action from the previous game between the two sides in Turin which ended in a draw last month. Photo: BBC Sport.

Arsenal will be looking to gain a step closer to qualification to the UEFA Women’s Champions League tonight as they are back in action against Juventus at the Emirates Stadium.

Last time out against Juve, the Gunners rescued a draw in Turin with Vivianne Miedema getting the equalising goal.

Since then, The Gunners have seen Lionesses captain Leah Williamson return to their ranks along with Rafaelle Souza.

Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall is still without midfielder Kim Little and forward Lina Hurtig for tonight’s match – one which he expects to be a tough one with a major impact on the group outcome.

“I expect a competitive game. I always think it’s very interesting when you’re playing a European team with this little time in between the games because now the tactical component of what the teams learned from the first game will really play a big part – in set pieces and in open play situations. I see this as a really long half-time break. So, let’s hope that we have used this to our best advantage.”

Arsenal are currently top of Group C, and a win for the Gunners tonight would put them in a great position to finish as group winners with defending champions Olympique Lyonnais next up at The Emirates.

Kayleigh Tonks: Enjoying The Game Again At Moneyfields

Impetus is delighted to announce the sponsorship of our 12th player this season. Midfielder Kayleigh Tonks is a key part of the Moneyfields squad who, after several frustrating seasons when they were denied promotion, are flourishing in their first season in the FA Women’s National League Division One South-West. Kayleigh, previously with Portsmouth and Southampton Women also plays in the FA National Futsal series for Southampton Aztecs. Ben Gilby spoke to Kayleigh to find out more (6/12/22).

Above: Kayleigh Tonks (right) in action for Moneyfields against Crawley Wasps. Photo: Ryan Asman.

Kayleigh Tonks has been a key part of the Hampshire women’s football scene for a number of years. Having spent several years at Portsmouth, she then went onto Southampton Women. Kayleigh takes up the story.

“I used to watch my sister when she played at Southampton and that’s how I got into football. I started off at my local side, Bitterne Youth then moved on to Southampton Saints where we won the league three seasons in a row. Me and my sister Bekah decided we wanted more of a challenge so went down to trial at Portsmouth, I played and enjoyed it as it was more of a challenge and the league was a good standard.

“From there I went to Southampton Women where I had two good seasons with them, I then felt it was time for a change so made the move to Moneyfields, Karl Watson (manager) had done so much for the team, and this is one of the things that attracted me to the club.”

Above: Kayleigh Tonks in possession for Moneyfields. Photo: Dave Bodymore.

Watson is one of those that Kayleigh identifies as one of those who have played an important role in developing her as a player. “I want to mention Karl who’s been great for the team at Moneyfields, he’s made me enjoy the game again. My parents took me to every game when I was younger, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without their support.

“My sister Bekah has also been key in helping me reach now as we have supported each other throughout our time playing football from Portsmouth to now Moneyfields. I am really enjoying playing with her again (the pair had previously come up against each other when Portsmouth took on Southampton).”

It is clear that Moneyfields have a prominent place in Kayleigh’s heart, as she readily admits that it is thanks to them that she has renewed love for the game.

“Moving to Moneyfields was the best decision I could have made as Karl (Watson, head coach) does so much for the players and I have loved every minute.” 

Kayliegh Tonks, Moneyfields FC.

Alongside her successes at Moneyfields, Kayleigh also plays for futsal for Southampton Aztecs in the FA National Futsal Series, the games’ top league, something that she not only enjoys massively but feels benefits her 11-aside game too.

Above: Kayleigh Tonks celebrating with Moneyfields teammates. Photo: Dave Bodymore.

“This is my second season playing futsal for the Aztecs. In the first season, we achieved promotion and I was top goalscorer, it was a great season and as a team, we did really well. This season has been up and down but we all enjoy it so much and are lucky to be able to play at some top places including St. George’s Park! 

“Futsal has benefited me massively, I feel more confident on the ball as the area is a lot smaller. As the pace of the game is much quicker I feel it has made my passing and movement better. We train twice a week and play a couple of games a month so I feel I can keep my fitness up when I’m not playing football, however, this can be tiring playing so much during the week but I enjoy it!”

After missing out on a place in the FA Women’s National League several times, something not helped by the limited seasons during the pandemic and the result that promotion was not decided on the pitch, Moneyfields finally took their deserved place in tier four at the end of last season.

“It was frustrating especially as we had already achieved so much with the games we had played but we never gave up and we stuck together as a team and achieved the promotion that we deserved which everyone was excited about, and I feel we definitely deserved it as a team,” Kayleigh reflected. “We are a close team and the bonds off the pitch match those on which helps us during training and games.

“The players are so supportive of each other and this has helped us achieved what we want at the moment. All the coaches work really well together and they have made us into the team we are now. We all have lots of respect for them with the amount of work they do for us all so this gives us the motivation to go on and do well.” 

Above: Kayleigh Tonks in action for Moneyfields at Selsey. Photo: Sheena Brooker.

It is not just the senior squad at Moneyfields who are growing and experiencing success. The club are developing a new home and adding new age group teams. Kayleigh is proud to be part of such a forward-moving club where the development of players from girls to the first team is so valued.

“The club as a whole are continuing to grow and we are all really looking forward to playing and training at the new ground that is being built as it will be good to have a home pitch that we are regularly playing on with some great facilities! It has also been amazing to see the youth girls section continuously growing with lots of new players and coaches come in which will massively help the club as a whole.”

Moneyfields are currently comfortably placed in seventh in the tier four FA Women’s National League Division One South-West, and Kayleigh just wants to keep the positive mood at the club going for as long as possible.

“For this season our aims are to work hard on the training ground and implement that into games so that we can keep getting the results. We will continue to try and push as far up the league as we can and keep supporting each other to achieve these results. My personal goals are to carry on enjoying football so that I can help the team to achieve our goals and aims by performing well and working hard.”

To see all of Impetus’ sponsored players and partner clubs for 2022/23, click here: https://impetusfootball.org/partnerships/

Six Of The Best For Table Topping Lionesses

Millwall Lionesses 6-0 AFC Acorns

by Kai Bennett (6/12/22)

Above: Millwall put AFC Acorns under pressure on Sunday. Photo: Tom West Photography.

Millwall Lionesses manager Jack Wheeler was delighted with his side’s “professionalism” in their 6-0 win against AFC Acorns on Sunday afternoon.

Millwall sit top of the London & South East Regional Women’s Division, two points clear of second-placed Worthing.

The Lionesses started well and got the opener when Maisie Joyce got on the end of a Jade Keogh corner.

It was two six minutes before the break as Shannan Drewe did well to beat the defender before striking under the keeper and into the corner.

It didn’t take long to get the third after the restart as Millie Connell hit home from another Keogh delivery.

Above: Shannan Drewe, who scored a hat-trick for Millwall against AFC Acorns on Sunday. Photo: Tom West Photography.

Drewe got her second and The Lionesses’ fourth with half an half an hour to go as her powerful effort flew into the top right-hand corner.

The hat trick was complete when the ball was played into the box, Drewe took a touch and placed it past the keeper.

The cherry on top came with three minutes remaining as Milly Penfold’s effort from the edge of the box flew into the bottom corner.

Wheeler said: “Really happy with the performance, obviously needed a reaction after the last couple of weeks.

“Really pleased with how the girls conducted themselves, a tricky game today, a potential banana skin for us, and going to a new facility (the game was played at Meridian Sports Club near Charlton Park rather than Millwall’s usual St. Pauls home) but the biggest thing for us was focusing on being high performers and really getting a big result that we needed, another three points and hopefully it will kick start us on another good run.

Above: Millie Connell, who scored Millwall’s third. Photo: Tom West Photography.

“I’m really pleased with the conduct and professionalism of the girls and the performance, just hoping that can propel us back up to the standards and the expectations that we expect from the group. Really positive and really happy both as staff and really happy for the players.

“We’ve got to take each week as it comes, we had a bit of a hangover from the way we lost in the FA Cup, and from it, we didn’t reach the same level of performance that we did prior to that game.

“But it is what it is so it’s all on the long term vision and the long term project for us so it’s really important to get back to winning ways because winning and losing can become a habit and it’s just important we continue to make sure that we keep putting in good performances.

“If we do that I’m pretty sure that we will keep getting the big three points so I’m really pleased.”

First Team Coach Adam Rowland was particularly impressed with how The Lionesses dealt with plenty of changes throughout the side.

Above: Lucy Jellett gets a shot in for Millwall against AFC Acorns on Sunday. Photo: Tom West Photography.

Rowland added: “They dealt with it particularly well, we changed the whole midfield, completely different three in there.

“They coped very well with it, worked very hard. We worked hard on the rotation throughout the week so it was good to see that in effect out there.

“Shannan (Drewe) got her real sort of full debut, got herself a hat-trick, and has done very well coming in. Overall, pleased with the players that came in, they did their job, worked hard, and gave us a good performance. 

“Nothing changes really in the way we prepare, we go into every game with the same thoughts, work ethic, the girls are going to work hard throughout it, building up to it.

“We have to keep the momentum going, every game is a big game for us now and we want to stay where we are and we want to progress. The girls know where we need to be at and we’re going to work hard this week and over the next couple of weeks in preparations for that game.”

Teams: MILLWALL LIONESSES: Hand, Connell, Payne, Keogh, Welsh, Jellett, Joyce, Moulton, Bailey, Drewe, Reid. Substitutes: Seely, Penfold, Williams, Kabadaki, Giordani.

Scorers: Joyce 21′. Drewe 31′, 61′, 69′. Connell 48′, Penfold 87′.

AFC ACORNS: Chesworth, Daily, Hudson, Hutson, Mclead, McDonnell, Page, Phillips, Powell, Tyler, Virley. Substitutes: Bosher, Horton, Livingstone.

Officials: Mark Jenkins, Juliette Joseph, Vince Kennedy.

Attendance: 34.

The View From France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the 10th round of 2022-2023 D1 Arkema season (6/12/22).

Above: Signe Bruun (far left) celebrates her hat trick goal for Olympique Lyonnais against Dijon. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Olympique Lyonnais are still two points ahead of Paris Saint-Germain at the top of the table after destroying Dijon 8-0 reassuring themselves going into a vital UWCL game.

Above: Faustine Robert (25 in the center), celebrating her goal. Photo: Montpellier

Fleury obtained a draw 1-1 away from home against Montpellier. Montpellier dominated the opening stages of the game with them only taking five minutes to break the deadlock. Batcheba Louis was penalised for handball giving the home side a penalty which Faustine Robert converted.

Fleury grew into the game creating several opportunities of their own. A succession of three corner kicks put the pressure on the home side with Marine Dafeur connecting with one of them only to be denied by the cross bar. 18-year-old Aïrine Fontaine grabbed the equaliser for Fleury just before half time as two defensive mistakes by Montpellier was punished. First Marion Torrent’s back pass created the initial trouble and then Océane Deslandes played the ball directly to the attacker who converted with ease. The lack of accuracy in front of goal meant that is how the score line stayed throughout the second half until full time with both teams a little cautious to go for the win and happy to settle for the point.

Above: Kessya Busy, Reims. Photo: Reims web site.

Reims won 3-1 at home against Le Havre. Le Havre took the lead, but Reims bounced back and took their chances in front of goal for a deserved win. The win now put Reims eighth in the league table only three points behind Montpellier who currently sit fourth. Goals for Reims from Kessya Busy (28, 85), Sonia Ouchene (62). Goal for Le Havre from Sh’nia Gordon (2).

Above: The joy of Guingamp team after their win. Photo: Guingamp.

Guingamp won 3-1 at home against Soyaux. In a battle of the sides at the bottom it was Guingamp who prevailed victorious. Two goals in 18 minutes were enough for the home side despite Soyaux having more opportunities. Guingamp’s first win of the season keeps them bottom of the table but closes the gap on the pack with the opposition now sitting only one point ahead of them in 10th.

Above: Bordeaux players congratulating each other. Photo: Bordeaux.

Bordeaux won 3-1 at home against Rodez. Bordeaux scored all the goals in their match (an own goal) against Rodez as the away side created very little to trouble them only managing six shots in the 90 minutes.

Above: An outstanding shot from Selma Bacha in the 40th minute that increased Lyon’s lead. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Olympique Lyonnais won 8-0 at home against Dijon. Signe Bruun stole the show for the home side scoring a hat-trick and two assists in a match Lyon dominated against a weak Dijon team who lost for the third time in a row. Selma Bacha was also on target with two long range strikes finding the net with Janice Cayman, Madeline Roth (Own Goal) and Inès Benyahia completing the rout. Lyon reassured their fans with a convincing display in front of goal before their crucial UWCL game on Wednesday against Zurich knowing they must win to give themselves any chance of progressing into the knockout stages of the tournament. strong involvement of all players and a good ball circulation in midfield will give them optimism.

Above: Paris St. Germain’s Sandy Baltimore. Photo: PSG
Paris St. Germain gained a vital 1-0 win over cross-city rivals Paris FC in a game that was also the battle of second against third in the table. Sandy Baltimore grabbed the only goal of the game which should have perhaps been more comfortable for the away side if they had managed to convert more of the opportunities, they created but overall was a good performance for the side that sit top of the league.

Another Hat Trick For Hincks Is Icing On The Birthday Cake

Chesham United 1-4 AFC Wimbledon

by George Jones – AFC Wimbledon Women (5/12/22)

Above: AFC Wimbledon (blue) in possession at Chesham United yesterday. Photo: Glyn Roberts.

Ashlee Hincks celebrated her 34th birthday in style with a well-taken hat trick against Chesham United.

Goals by Ashlee Hincks and Becki Bath guided the Dons to a 4-1 victory at The Meadow against an in-form Chesham United in the FAWNL Division One London and South-East.

After two wins on the bounce in the FA Cup, the Dons did not get off to the start they had imagined, struggling to get into the rhythm that had seen them, play so well in recent weeks. 

Despite the slow start, the Dons took the lead inside the opening 20 minutes as Hincks got her first of the afternoon with a long-range effort. Although being 1-0 up, it seemed luck was not in Wimbledon’s hands, hitting the crossbar three times within 25 minutes. However, Becki Bath soon put a stop to this, doubling the lead after scoring a well-deserved goal.

The second half saw the Dons make several changes. After recovering from her injury, Emma Plewa made her anticipated league debut, coming on for Amy Taylor on the hour mark. Shortly afterwards, Impetus sponsored Mia Lockett was swapped on for midfielder Megan Stow, hoping for more pace in the middle of the pitch.

The substitutes changed the flow of the game for the Dons, allowing them to keep the majority of the possession and press higher. As we approached the final 10, forward Becki Bath was taken out inside the Chesham penalty area, gifting Hincks the chance to get her second of the game.

Hincks, keen to make her birthday one to remember, made no mistake from 12 yards to put the Dons 3-0 up.

After a comfortable afternoon for Faye Baker, her first real test came midway through the second half, it was a disappointment to concede in the 84th minute.

Though Chesham were able to get a goal back, their defence gifted Ashlee Hincks the opportunity of a hat-trick deep into injury time. After being taken down in the box, Hincks made no mistake from the penalty spot to notch her 21st goal of the season.

First team coach Andy May said: “We weren’t at the same standards as we had been over the last couple of weeks, but it says a lot about our character that we were able to come here and grind out a result.”

Next up the Dons are back at Plough Lane as we host Gillingham from the league above, the FAWNL Southern Premier in a massive Vitality Women’s FA Cup Third round game. Victory would put Wimbledon into the hat with the FAWSL big guns. Tickets are now available.

AFC WIMBLEDON: Baker, Russell, (Sampson), Brooks, Highman, Newman, Mann, Taylor (Plewa), Donovan, Stow (Lockett), Hincks, Bath.

Attendance: 42.

Welsh Weekend Wrap

Impetus’ Martin Townley rounds up all the weekend’s action across the three Adran Leagues. With thanks to Aberystwyth Town’s Carrie Dunn for additional reporting (5/12/22).

Above: Celebrations for Cardiff Met – 1-0 winners over Pontypridd United at the weekend. Photo: Cardiff Met.

Cardiff City remain at the top of the Genaro Adran Premier after a draw in the South Wales Derby at Swansea City.  Aberystwyth stage a stunning three-goal comeback against TNS, Barry, and Abergavenny share the spoils in a six-goal thriller at Jenner Park.

Wrexham stay on top of the Adran North with their fifth win of the season, and Briton Ferry Llansawel make it three from three to pull away at the top of the Adran South. 

Adran Premier

Swansea City 1-1 Cardiff City

Above: Phoebe Poole (blue of Cardiff City) and Rachel Cullen of rivals Swansea City battle for possession. Photo: Wales Online.

Another big crowd for a Women’s game in Wales as 1,376 supporters turned out at the Swansea.com Stadium for a vital South Wales Derby.

Katy Hosford gave the home fans something to cheer as she smashed past Ceryn Chamberlain from a tight angle in the 51st minute. Cardiff City looking to keep their unbeaten start going came back into the game thanks to a stunning strike from Phoebie Poole. Cardiff remain top and five points clear of Swansea with games to play before the league splits for phase two. 

Aberystwyth Town 3-3 The New Saints

Above: Joy for Aberystwyth Town in their superb comeback against The New Saints. Photo: Adran League.

Aberystwyth staged a stunning three-goal comeback to rescue a point against The New Saints. 

Caitlin Chapman put the Saints ahead after 20 minutes and Lucie Platt added a second before halftime.  Chapman made it three on the hour mark as it looked to be a comfortable win for TNS. Elin Jones started the comeback for the Green and Blacks and Gwenllian Jones got the second with twenty minutes to play.  Aber left it very late to finish off their comeback as Tania Wylde secured a draw in the 96th minute.

Speaking afterwards to her club media officer, Aberystwyth’s Gwenllian Jones said: “I don’t think I’ll be able to get out of bed tomorrow morning! Everybody worked so hard to get that result – we needed it,” said Gwenllian Jones afterwards.

“Playing in the top league of women’s football in Wales is great for me personally, but it’s also great to play alongside these girls.”

Aberystwyth go into sixth place but are now level on points with TNS on 11. 

Barry Town United 3-3 Abergavenny

Above: Gina Robinson (right) of Barry Town United, making her first start. Photo: Barry Town United.

There was another six-goal thriller this week as Barry and Abergavenny with head-to-head at Jenner Park. 

Alana Murphy gave the Pennies the lead after 23 minutes and Abergavenny went into the break ahead. Mackenzie Olden equalised for the Linnets shortly after the restart and Barry went on the front foot with Taite Trivett putting them ahead. The lead was short-lived as Ellis Lunn levelled for Abergavenny just a minute after Barry had taken the lead. The game swung back in Barry’s favour as captain Lauren Harris restored their lead with 18 minutes left. Barry couldn’t hold on and Alana Murphy scored with four minutes left to help her side gain their first point of the season. Abergavenny stay on the bottom of the Adran Premier with one point while Barry are seventh on ten points.

Cardiff Met 1-0 Pontypridd United

Cardiff Met remain third and seven points behind the leaders after a 1-0 home win over Pontypridd United. 

Erin Murray’s goal after 26 minutes was enough to take the three points. Pontypridd remain in fourth place three points ahead of TNS in fifth. 

Table From Adran Leagues.

Adran North

Above: Wrexham’s two-goal hero Rosie Hughes celebrates. Photo: Wrexham Women.

Wrexham’s lead in the Aran North is now five points after a solid 2-0 win over Airbus UK.  Wrexham left it late with late goals from Rosie Hughes securing the win. 

Connah’s Quay Nomads drew 1-1 with Llandudno, Maddie Williams getting the equaliser after Nomads took an early lead.  Nomads remain in second on ten points with Llandudno third. CPDM Y Felinheli also drew with Llanfair United 2-2.  Fflur Williams giving Felinheli the lead after 10 minutes, but they were pulled back five minutes later thanks to Harriet Davies’ goal. Fflur Williams restored the lead for Felinheli before half time but Davies got her second to share the points for Llanfair.

Table From: Adran Leagues.

Adran South

With Cascade v Caldicot Town postponed there was just one game in the Adran South this weekend as Briton Ferry Llansawel hosted Swansea University at Old Road. 

Swansea Uni tried to make if difficult for Briton Ferry but after Megan Kearle’s opening goal on 24 minutes, the home side took control of the game.  Fleur Jenkins added a second before Kearle got her second on 38 minutes.  Lowri Baker added a fourth before the break with Kearle rounding off her hat trick in the second half.  Baker added a sixth goal to round off a strong win for the Reds.

Table From: Adran Leagues.

City Stay In Touch With The Top Three After Win Over Brighton

Manchester City 3-1 Brighton and Hove Albion

by Johnathan Stack at The Academy Stadium for Impetus (5/12/22).

Above: Manchester City celebrate Laura Coombs’ strike. Photo: Barclays WSL.

Manchester City extended their improved run of results with a comfortable win over Brighton and Hove Albion at the Academy Stadium with all three goals coming in a 15- minute burst in the first half as Gareth Taylor’s side came out of the blocks on fire.

City came into the game on the back of a 2-1 win over Everton at Walton Hall Park. As for Brighton, they drew 3-3 with Liverpool at The People’s Pension Stadium in their last WSL match.

Chloe Kelly had a great chance to grab the game’s first goal inside the opening 10 minutes after being played in by Bunny Shaw. The Lioness produced a good piece of skill to get past her marker but her shot went just wide.

City then did break the deadlock as Kelly took a corner kick on the left, and there was a mix-up at the near post between Brighton keeper Megan Walsh and forward Veatriki Sarri. Walsh struggled to claim the ball it ended up in the back of the net off Sarri for an own goal.

The hosts were in control in the opening 20 minutes and the pressure paid off as a move down the right from Kelly saw her move inside before shooting just wide, but the ball found the path of Julie Blakstad to get a touch to double City’s lead.

Brighton were struggling to stop Blakstad who, as she made a darting run inside, the ball found its way to Laura Coombs who struck the ball first time from 25 yards out and it flashed past a helpless Walsh in the Brighton goal to make it 3-0 inside 26 minutes.

It was all one-way traffic in the opening half an hour of the game, as Brighton offered very little in terms of attack. City saw the rest of the half out with little fuss in terms of having to defend, Blakstad nearly had a second in first-half stoppage-time but Walsh produced a great save to keep the score 3-0 at half-time.

Above: Chloe Kelly, scorer of City’s opener, celebrates with Bunny Shaw. Photo: Barclays WSL.

Into the second half and Brighton came out and tested Ellie Roebuck a couple of times but to no avail.

Second-half substitute Filippa Angeldahl then went close as her shot went just wide after a great move down the right from Kelly the cross found her unmarked in the box.

City then had another chance to get the fourth goal as great link-up play from Alex Greenwood and Hayley Raso down the right saw City skipper play the ball into Deyna Castellanos whose first-time shot was instinctively well saved by Walsh.

In the final minute, Esme Morgan produced a great piece of skill down the right and played in Raso, who then found Blakstad who missed an absolute sitter in the six-yard box and put the ball over the bar from a couple of yards out.

In stoppage time Brighton did get a consolation goal from a free kick, a long ball into the box, which City failed to deal with was eventually bundled into the back of the net by Lee Geum-Min to make it 3-1.

After the game in the post-match press conference, Manchester City head coach Gareth Taylor spoke of his pride in the first-half performance.

“It was a good win, we were a bit slow first five minutes, but I think the goal settled us, our set play delivery was really good today. After that, we scored two excellent goals – the second goal was really good, it was a good finish by Julie (Blakstad) from Chloe’s (Kelly) cross and then a really good finish from Laura (Coombs) as well.

“Second half was a bit too loose from us in possession which made the game a little too open for Brighton and we were a bit disappointed that we’ve not added a few more goals to our performance. It keeps us right in touch and that’s the really pleasing thing.”

Manchester City are back in action on Wednesday evening when they travel to Prenton Park to take on Liverpool in the Continental League Cup.

Teams: MANCHESTER CITY: Roebuck, Casparij, Aleixandri, Greenwood (C), Ouahabi, Hasegawa, Coombs, Castellanos, Shaw, Blakstad. Substitutes: MacIver, Stokes, Houghton, Angedahl, Raso, Morgan, Mace, Kennedy, Hutchings. 

Scorers: Kelly 11′, Blakstad 19′, Coombs 26′.

BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION: Walsh, Fox, Pattinson, Sarri, Connolly, Lee, Zigiotti, Green, Carter, Williams, Robinson. Substitutes: Jarvis, Park, Bance, Scott, Symonds, Terland.

Scorer: Lee 90+1′.

Referee: Cheryl Foster

Attendance: 1,696

A-League Women Weekly Awards

Each week during the home and away season, Impetus’ writing and photography team covering the A-League Women will nominate a player, coach, and event of the week. We’ll keep a tally of the player and coach votes as the weeks go by, and just before the Finals, will announce our winners for 2022/23 (5/12/22).

Player of the Week:

Above: Emina Ekic of Melbourne City was the choice of three of our six voters this week. Photo: Melbourne City.

KIERAN YAP: Alex Chidiac. The Victory playmaker looked back to her best in very challenging conditions. She ran tirelessly defensively and attacked Wellington relentlessly. It was an extremely hot day in Melbourne, and Chidiac’s effort was extraordinary. She ended the game with one assist and a shot that hit the post. 

BEN GILBY: Can you give a player of the week award to someone who only played 45 minutes? Normally I’d hesitate, but not after watching Shay Hollman’s efforts in the first half of the Sydney derby. The 17-year-old was absolutely sensational, working hard in the transitions and showing superb vision to link up with her teammates in the face of a Wanderers high press. Only withdrawn for tactical reasons after Nat Tobin’s second yellow, Hollman was superb.

JONATHAN TAY: This could’ve gone to any of a host of Melbourne City players this week, after a real whole-team effort against Brisbane Roar. Emina Ekic though, was right in the thick of all of City’s action, notching their third goal, and the American’s first tally of the season. She didn’t have an assist but was involved in an impressive 11 shot-creating actions, including winning a penalty. The 23-year-old shone from her left-wing position, also having involvement in the Melbournians’ first two goals as well; her cross found Bryleeh Henry (via a deflection off Maria Rojas’ back) to open the scoring, with another pullback creating Daniela Galic’s initial shot, after which Rojas nodded in the rebound. It’s been a great start to life in the A-League so far for Ekic.

BEN CAREY: Emina Ekic’s efforts against Brisbane Roar were paramount to Melbourne City’s emphatic victory. Ekic scored a goal, won a penalty kick, and created several more goal-scoring opportunities.

RYAN MILLER-WOODS: Shay Hollman for Sydney FC against Western Sydney Wanderers, played as if she was an A-League Women’s veteran despite the fact that it was only her second competitive match in the league. The ways in which she was getting involved in the action and the chances she made as well as just how comfortable she looked out there was truly something else. Withdrawn at the break due to Natalie Tobin’s sending off, for tactical reasons by Deborah-Ann de la Harpe, Hollman stood out.

KIERAN CHEA: Emina Ekic of Melbourne City was energetic all game against Brisbane Roar and always looked like a threat when she was attacking.

Coach of the Week:

Above: Dario Vidosic, who along with Western United boss Mark Torcaso received two votes from our team this week. Photo: Melbourne City.

KIERAN YAP: Newcastle Jets were playing well, but had gone down by a goal for a second time in the game. Wilson responded decisively and made changes off the bench. On came Ash Brodigan and her calm finish rescued a point. The Jets shifted personnel and game plan slightly, but it made a huge difference. 

BEN GILBY: Mark Torcaso’s Western United team were down on the scoreboard in Adelaide. No shame in that at all. But the belief he has instilled in this new squad, and the clever recruitment of NPL players he knew well from Calder United, along with other young names from around Victoria, plus the marquee signings of Jess McDonald and Chloe Logarzo came together to create a sensational comeback. Something really special could well be brewing down there. Their derby in a fortnight with Melbourne City after having the bye this coming weekend looks set to be a must-see clash.

JONATHAN TAY: Melbourne City look like they haven’t missed a beat, transitioning from father, Rado Vidosic, to son, Dario, as head coach. They put in a dominant display in their 3-0 win against top-four hopefuls Brisbane, showing them what real title challengers look like. After missing out on the Grand Final last year, it’s clear City have taken their performance to another level, Vidosic going with a new look 4-3-3 formation to start the campaign. Their influential midfield of Rhianna Pollicina, Daniela Galic, and Leah Davidson has been superb, allowing City to control games and rack up 6.3 expected goals (xG) from just two games. Last week Vidosic emphasised, “My mentality is that we always want to win, the trophies are there to be won – that’s why we play.” Still early days, but they look to already be the team to beat this season.

BEN CAREY: Mark Torcaso leading his expansion team Western United to victory against yet another strong, in-form team in Adelaide United was another great achievement on his resume.

RYAN MILLER-WOODS: Like with the first game of City’s season against Wellington, Dario Vidosic, despite only temporarily being in the role as Melbourne City Women’s head coach, Dario has looked so at home coaching the side and it really feels like nothing has changed in the setup of the club. Should he not stay on permanently with Melbourne City, he will be hotly sought after for any head-coach roles that may become available in the A-League Women in the near future.

KIERAN CHEA: Dario Vidosic. A convincing and relentless Melbourne City side reinforcing Vidosic’s winning mentality.

Event of the Week:

Above: Emma Robers celebrates her stunning last-gasp winner for Western United with Melissa Taranto recieved four of the five votes cast in the Event of the Week category. Photo: Western United.

KIERAN YAP: Emma Robers late winner for Western United. It was a terrific goal by any standard. That she could strike it so perfectly in the 97th-minute was incredible. It put Western United on top of the table with three wins. They are the only team remaining with a perfect record.

BEN GILBY: Western United’s superb comeback at Adelaide United. Chloe Logarzo took control of the midfield after coming on as a substitute and gave her side renewed control. Throw in an absolute stunner of a winner at the death from Emma Robers and you get one of those magic Dub moments.

JONATHAN TAY: The Western United train keeps on rolling, though not without some drama this gameweek. Down 1-0 in a tight contest with Adelaide United and entering stoppage time, a long throw from Jess McDonald led to Sydney Cummings’ deflected equaliser seemingly salvaging a point for Western United. However, they went one step further, Emma Robers smashing home a 97th-minute corner from the edge of the box to give the Western Melbourne team the win and maintain a perfect record after three games.

BEN CAREY: It’s a close one this week but for me, it’s Emma Robers’ incredible 97th-minute goal from just outside the 18-yard box to give Western United a thrilling last-second win against Adelaide United. Special shoutout to Remy Siemsen though for her amazing high-looping goal from the far right side of the field in the 82nd minute to give Sydney FC the win over the Wanderers.

RYAN MILLER-WOODS: There are not enough superlatives that can fully describe just how amazing and incredible Remy Siemsen’s match-winning goal in the Sydney Derby for Sydney FC truly was. From turning herself outside the box, then setting up the chance just right with her shot then going over the head of Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Jordyn Bloomer and into the back of the net, what a way to not only make an impact off the bench but to score such a goal as the one she did in just her second match back with Sydney FC. 

Western United Go Top With Stoppage Time Comeback At Adelaide

By Johnathan Stack

Adelaide United 1-2 Western United (4/12/22)

Above: Western United celebrate a dramatic winner. Photo: @wufcofficial twitter

There were astonishing scenes at the ServiceFM Stadium as Western United pulled off a dramatic late comeback against Adelaide United.

Mark Torcaso’s side ran out 2-1 winners after scoring two goals in second half stoppage time with the winner hitting the net in the 97th minute. Strikes from Sydney Cummings and Emma Robers sealed the fight back to send Western United top of the Liberty A-League table.

Western United was forced into an early change as Stacey Papadopoulos took a nasty fall during a challenge following Adelaide keeper Annalee Grove’s clearance. The club have subsequently made a statement via social media that Papadopoulos sustained a concussion and was taken to hospital for precautionary scans which have come back clear.

With the second half just a minute old, there was a golden opportunity for Adelaide to hit the front when Emilia Murray missed from close range after Xiao YuYi squared the ball across the box.

Above: Adelaide United celebrate Chelsie Dawber’s goal. Photo: Adelaide United.

The South Australian hosts had better luck 10 minutes later when Chelsie Dawber broke the deadlock with her first goal of the season. The striker was played through and Western United centre-back Alana Cerne and keeper Hillary Beall ran into each other leaving Dawber to place her right-footed shot from the middle of the box into the bottom left corner of the empty goal.

With the Victoria-based side introducing Matildas’ star Chloe Logarzo off the bench, they gained a greater foothold in midfield and began to be far more threatening. Cummings played through Aimee Medwin but her effort smashed the crossbar.

With 90 minutes on the clock, Western United got the equaliser from a thrown-in on the left-hand side that made its way to Hannah Keane. The in-form attacker teed up Cummings on the edge of the box whose shot was deflected and found its way into the back of the net.

Above: Emma Robers (11) celebrates her sensational winner with Melissa Taranto. Photo: Western United.

Then in the 97th minute, the competition’s newest team won it in some style. Chloe Logarzo’s corner was initially cleared by Dawber but waiting on the edge of the box was Robers who crashed a thunderous strike into the back of the net to seal the victory for Western United and send them top of the Liberty A-League.

Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED (4-3-3): Grove, Hodgson, Tonkin (McCormick), Waldus, Hayward, Condon (Barbieri), Sasaki, Holmes, Dawber, Xiang (Bowler), Murray (Westland). Substitutes not used: Westland, Wilson.

Scorer: Dawber 56′.

WESTERN UNITED (4-1-4-1): Beall, Papadopoulos (Medwin, Sinclair), Cerne, Cummings, Vlajnic, McDonald, M Taranto, Robers, A Taranto (Logarzo), Iermano (Dakic), Keane. Substitute not used: Dakic.

Scorers: Cummings 90+1′, Robers 97+7′.

Referee Lara Lee.

Attendance: 1,013.