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Lisa Topping On The Chorley Team Mentality

In the third part of our series of interviews with Impetus-sponsored players, Chorley‘s Lisa Topping, who we have supported for three seasons now, spoke to Ben Gilby about the team’s progress, aims for the season, and the importance of the Euros legacy filtering down to the grassroots (15/10/22).

Above: Lisa Topping (purple kit) in action for Chorley at FC United of Manchester in the FA Women’s National League Division One North last season. Photo: John Shirras.

Chorley had a season to be proud of last time round. A fantastic FA Cup run, and a reputation for being a seriously tough nut to crack in the fourth-tier FA Women’s National League Division One North. They are a club that regularly punches above their weight, and don’t quite receive the recognition that they deserve for doing so.

Lisa Topping, who played top-level football for Liverpool earlier in her career, is an established part of the Chorley club, and we’re delighted to be sponsoring her for a third season. At the current time, Lisa is recovering from a foot injury, but looking to return to action soon. The defender opened our conversation by outlining the focus of pre-season as the club sought to build on last season’s positive outcomes.

“We had a good pre-season which saw us play quality teams that allowed us to apply things we’d been working on in training. We used the time in pre-season to really build on the foundations set the previous year and work on some of our areas. Positively, we welcomed new players into the squad, which is always good and gives us more depth and diversity.

“Those new faces coming in is great. It’s always important to bring more depth to a squad competing in this league, as it can be a long season. Positively, we’ve seen some younger players make the step up from the reserve team, which is fantastic to see as that shows our structure encourages development, growth, and sustainability. It’s a good balance to have both youth and experience and it benefits both parties. They will continue to grow in confidence and performance throughout this season, and as an older player, that’s fun to watch!”

Looking ahead to the campaign on a personal level, Lisa’s aims are all centred around adding value to the club. “I want to do whatever I can do to support the team in achieving our goals. It’s all about a team mentality at Chorley and each person playing their individual part. For me, it’s not just about how I personally play or perform but also about supporting the growth of the team, whether it be by encouraging younger players or being a voice on the sideline whilst I’m injured.”

Chorley’s reputation as being a tough nut to crack has continued to reap rewards this season, as Lisa reflected. “The team have had a good start to the campaign. The FAWNL is a tough league to be in where fixtures and results can be unpredictable.

“With that comes the need to be prepared for every game and battle to the end, which is a trait of Chorley where we never back down until the final whistle. Valuable points on the road have been picked up at the likes of Newcastle United and similarly much-needed ones at home versus Merseyrail. The team needs to continue to take each game at a time.”

**Above:** Chorley (sky blue) in action in front of 2,000 fans at Newcastle United earlier this season. **Photo:** Newcastle United.

Lisa touched on the superb result at Newcastle United – a game which saw Chorley earn a point in a game played in front of 2,000 fans at Kingston Park. I asked her what that experience was like for the squad.

“We seem to be a thorn in Newcastle United’s side. Last year we took vital points away from them which in the end stumped their promotion capabilities. We seem to have remained a thorn this year with a worthy away point in front of over 2,000 fans. You can always rely on a Laura Walker free kick in those situations! The girls and travelling Chorley fans will have celebrated loudly despite being only a few in number.”

While the summer saw the huge boost of a home European Championships, with the Lionesses winning the competition and the resulting boost in crowds at the top level. However, lower down the women’s football pyramid, clubs are still waiting to see the rewards of the summer’s successes

“A lot of focus is being put on the Women’s Super League and Championship after the tournament but there’s so much more to women’s football than those two leagues. The FAWNL gives a fantastic, tough game of football to watch too, and at a very local level. Hopefully, the grassroots clubs around us gain more interest and involvement, and in turn over time that will mean more players coming through our ranks.

“I think by putting Karen Carney in place to lead the FA’s review of womens football is a really important step. I’m confident she’s going to do a great job in ensuring progress. Momentum can very quickly be lost, so it’s really important to capitalise on it now and drive the changes that need to happen.

“As mentioned, the more people we get watching FAWNL games the better as it increases exposure. For me, being around the game for the past 25 years, I’ve recognised that it’s really important to provide opportunities for girls to play. Like so many others, when I was young I had to fight to play football with the boys and that was an intimidating experience that would make a lot of girls shy away from the sport. So, it’s about making football accessible early for all. “

Park Embrace Challenge (Cup) Positively

Pride Park 2-2 Shirebrook Rangers

by ‘Doug Outt’

Above: Rachel Weaver, who had a sensational game as a stand-in centre back for Pride Park. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

The Pride were stretched to the limits by a combination of injuries, illnesses, and other absences for Sunday’s Challenge Cup game against Shirebrook, with just eleven players available. In the absence of a goalkeeper, a not-quite-fit-to-play-outfield Bleu Lewis-Wilson volunteered to play in goal for the first time ever, Rachel Weaver moved across to partner Annie Laight at centre back and Ella Kew played as a striker.

Despite the unusual lineup, Pride made a positive start to the game and took the game to the visitors, forcing two corners in the opening minutes, Kew almost scoring from the second in what would have been a carbon copy of her goal last week, but she couldn’t quite make the connection and the ball went wide of the post. Kew had another attempt a minute later, this time saved by the keeper, and Allderidge also saw her shot saved.

Eliot Sayavong was unlucky to see her half-volley just fly wide of the post after Allderidge glanced on an Izzy Wilsoncroft throw-in, but the breakthrough came shortly afterwards. Lizzie Pacey collected a loose ball on the left and played the ball up to Kew, who held it up well and laid off a return pass to Pacey on the overlap – she took a touch of the ball out of her feet and hit a low left footed cross across the face of goal.

Fran Critchley-Watson looked like she was going to get on to it but she was caught in a sandwich between two defenders, once of which slid under her and took her feet away, but the ball broke to Allderidge who hit an emphatic finish across the ‘keeper and into the corner of the net with fifteen minutes played.

A minute later and good build-up play involving Wilsoncroft, Kew, Critchley-Watson and Sophie Roberts gave Eliot Sayavong a shot on goal, but her shot was saved by the ‘keeper. The first fifteen minutes had been almost all Pride Park but Shirebrook responded and started to grow into the game – hitting a shot wide after a pass put an attacker in behind, but making no mistake after 22 minutes when a precise diagonal pass split the Pride centre backs and into the path of the attacker, who steered the ball wide of Lewis-Wilson to level the scores.

The goal gave Shirebrook encouragement and shortly after the goal had another shot on target but Lewis-Wilson did well to get down and turn it round the post. There was a let-off after 26 minutes when Shirebrook broke down their left and pulled back a low cross that went across the face of goal but the attacker coming at the far post put her shot wide with the goal at her mercy.

This seemed to revive Pride who responded in kind, mounting a series of attacks that lead to a couple of free kicks. The first of these resulted in a shot from distance by Laight, who did well to keep her shot down and on target, but it was collected at the second attempt by the keeper.

The second free kick, from further out, was taken again by Laight and flighted in superbly outside the far post eluding Kew and Sayavong only by inches. As half-time approached a glancing header by Kew put Roberts through but under pressure from a defender the ball clipped the back of her heel, falling into the path of Critchley-Watson for a first time shot, partially blocked and looping up to be caught by the keeper.

The second half followed a very similar pattern to the first period, with Pride Park having the better of it in the opening stages. Kew’s shot was saved by the keeper, Roberts and Critchley-Watson went close and Weaver driving forward after collecting a loose ball was unlucky not to burst through, being just crowded out by a couple of defenders on the edge of the area. Only six minutes after the restart, however, Pride were back in front; a throw-in on the right by Wilsoncroft was laid off superbly by Kew into the path of Critchley-Watson and she hit a dipping shot beyond the keeper.

The game was opening up more with both sides finding space and creating openings. Shots from Sayavong and Critchey-Watson were saved by the Shirebrook ‘keeper, and Roberts saw an effort go just wide, while at the other end Lewis-Wilson saved one shot and saw another go wide as Shirebrook tried to reduce the deficit. It momentarily looked like Pride might have extended their lead just after the hour, when Sayavong anticipated a Laight free kick into space and just beat the ‘keeper – who bravely dived at her feet – in a race for the ball but her shot only just cleared the bar. Fortunately, neither player was hurt in the resulting collision and helped each other to their feet – reflecting a game played competitively but in a good spirit by both sides.

As the game entered its final quarter the sides traded shots, a little like two prize fighters in the ring but it was Shirebrook who landed the punch – equalising with a little over ten minutes to play. Pride responded well and put Shirebrook under pressure in the final minutes creating a few chances without landing a knockout punch – an Allderidge corner was just missed in the air by Eliot Sayavong with a huge leap above the ‘keeper, the ball was instinctively prodded goalwards by Fran Critchley-Watson, and after a scramble in the six yard box Shirebrook managed to get the ball away.

The respite was short lived, however, as within a minute Kew slipped a pass in for Laight who timed her run to perfection but could not quite find the connection she wanted with her shot which was saved by the keeper low to her right. There was just time for one more attempt but Kew hit her shot wide of the post.

An entertaining game ended all square. In challenging circumstances, the Pride put in a good shift – which without the benefit of substitutes many were no doubt feeling towards the end – but showed excellent commitment and effort to the end. Once again, they were good in possession, with some intelligent play that only lacked a little on the final ball to make the most of it.

After some initial “tuning” issues the defence adapted well and gave novice goal-keeper Lewis-Wilson good protection – but on the occasions when the defence was breached, Bleu embraced the challenge, could have done nothing about either goal, and looked anything but a first timer between the posts!

Both teams will probably feel they could have won it but to coin a football cliché “we go again” (literally) – having been unable to separate the sides in ninety minutes, the tie now goes to a replay at Shirebrook on 30th October – when one way or another there will be a winner, whether in ninety minutes, after extra-time, or decided on penalties.

Jets Land Local NPL Star Stapleford

Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from Sophie Stapleford who has signed her first A-League contract with her local club Newcastle Jets, after overcoming huge personal challenges, plus the views of head coach Ash Wilson (20/10/22).

Graphic: Newcastle Jets.

Newcastle Jets have announced the signing of Maitland Magpies Captain Sophie Stapleford for the coming A-League season.

Stapleford, a midfielder, joins the club after her impressive performances in the Newcastle NPL this year as well as her eye-catching displays in the Newcastle Jets Elite Training Program sessions during the off-season.

Newcastle Jets Coach Ash Wilson is excited to welcome Stapleford on board.

**Above:** Sophie Stapleford (right) in action for Maitland Magpies in the Newcastle NPL. **Photo:** Newcastle Herald.

“I’m very pleased to be able to announce Sophie in the Newcastle Jets squad. Sophie earned recognition this season with consistent performances for Maitland in the Newcastle NPL and backed this up with impressive sessions as part of the Elite Training Program I was running during the ALW off-season.

“She can be utilised in a number of positions due to the physical and technical qualities she possesses. This combined with her drive to make forward runs and play forward reflects the brand of football we aim to play and made her someone we were keen to work with.

“I think most of the football community in this area are aware of Sophie’s background, the challenges she has faced (she has recovered from a brain tumour) but how hard she has worked and how much resilience she has shown to get here and I can’t wait to see what she is able to achieve working in this high-performance environment.”

Stapleford is excited to get going and impress in her first A-League season. “I’m really excited to be signing with the Jets for my first A-League season. It hasn’t been the easiest journey for me to get here but I’m so grateful for this opportunity. I want to train and play consistently and keep improving every week. I can’t wait for us to work hard throughout the season and build together as a really positive football squad on and off the field.”

Olympique Lyonnais v Arsenal Photo Gallery

Impetus’ Jean-Pierre Thiesset was pitchside at the Groupama Stadium last night for Arsenal‘s stunning 5-1 win over Olympique Lyonnais and he brings us an EXCLUSIVE photo gallery from the match (20/10/22).

Above: Arsenal celebrate Caitlin Foord’s opening goal on a momentous night in Lyon. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

**Above:** Another goal to celebrate for Arsenal. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Beth Mead lets fly for the Gunners. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** An aerial contest in the build-up to Melvine Malard’s goal for Olympique Lyonnais. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus.*

**Above:** Arsenal gather in unity. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Caitlin Foord gives advice to Lotte Wubben-Moy. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Vivianne Miedema looks to cover. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Caitlin Foord in possession. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Steph Catley looks up to deliver the ball in Lyon last night. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Beth Mead and Selma Bacha face off. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Arsenal’s Lionesses star Beth Mead. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Janice Cayman looks on as Kim Little plays a pass. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Wendie Renard (left) and Vivianne Miedema focus on the ball. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Frida Maanum lets fly. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Arsenal’s Laura Weinroither looks to close down Danielle van de Donk. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

**Above:** Olympique Lyonnais and France’s young gun Selma Bacha shoots last night. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

Skinner: Manchester United Won’t Underestimate Leicester

Impetus’ Holly Wright was in Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner‘s media conference today ahead of this weekend’s trip to Leicester City. The Red Devils’ chief underlines the importance of going flat-out against the WSL strugglers on Sunday (19/10/22).

Above: Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner. Photo: Manchester United Women.

Having won their last nine games at home in which they have scored twelve goals and not conceded since Arsenal found a way past them almost a year ago, Manchester United hit the road where they have struggled to emulate their home form and travel to Leicester City.

Head coach Marc Skinner insists that ensuring a lack of complacency is key despite the teams being at opposite ends of the table: “If we look back to last season, it was a different kind of situation. We wanted to recruit in the summer so that we could adapt and find different ways to be a different opponent.

“When we play Leicester this weekend, I think the biggest thing for us is that we will not take Leicester lightly. I think complacency can be a real beast for any team that aspires to be successful. I’ve got to make sure that we don’t get complacent at any point and for me, I have nothing but respect for every team in this league.”

Skinner added how it’s important to stay mentally switched on against a team that are the underdogs. “We will never underestimate any team. We have got to make sure that we select the right team and focus in the right ways.

“We have already started today looking at ways in which we can beat Leicester but the one thing we won’t do is take anything lightly. We have to be at our very best again to beat a Leicester team at a very big great stadium. We are going to find ways to make sure that we stave off any complacency.”

**Above:** Lydia Bedford, Leicester City’s head coach, someone that Marc Skinner has huge respect for. **Photo:** FA WSL.

The Manchester United chief was full of admiration for Leicester City and head coach Lydia Bedford’s progress since taking charge in November 2021 claiming that they are progressing in the right way after having a total rehaul. “I think it’s difficult because when Lydia went there, she had to turn around a team that wasn’t necessarily hers.

“We have obviously loaned Carrie (Jones) there who won’t be able to play against us, but we wouldn’t have done that if we didn’t feel that Leicester was a great space or a great place that people can keep progressing and get better. I think it’s been a tough start for them. I think when you look at who the games were against in particular the Aston Villa game it was a case of the old cliché ‘a game of two halves’.”

Looking ahead to the game on Sunday, the former Birmingham City manager identified the ways that Leicester can create problems for his team on the pitch. “They have lots of quality. They just need to try and piece everything together. They have clear threats, which we have to make sure that we control what we can to stop them getting those opportunities but there is nothing we will take lightly.

“We have got to be at our very, very best in every game. There’s a short number of games this season. It’s easy to get up for what people would say is the bigger games, but for us, this is a big game. We are travelling away, we have got a great home form and now we need to make sure we translate that onto the field and into our away games. We will be taking them with the utmost respect that they deserve.”

There will be a number of absentees from Skinner’s squad this weekend as they continue their recovery from injuries sustained. Alessia Russo is still recovering from the injury that forced her to withdraw from the England squad earlier this month as well as the league game at Brighton last weekend.

“Alessia is still the same. She’s progressing nicely again on the field and returned to training for the first time last week alongside her rehab she is probably around two or three weeks away from recovery. Other players who will miss out on the trip to Leicester are Grace Clinton, Hannah Blundell, and Ona Batlle. Skinner provided an update on how each of those players are getting on in their rebab.

**Above:** Hannah Blundell – likely to miss United’s trip to Leicester City on Sunday. **Photo:** Manchester United Women.

“Grace Clinton won’t be available. She’s back on the grass training, which is good. Hannah is back in individual training. It was more precautionary on the weekend, she felt something so it’s just important that we don’t overdo it. Ona is again testing better so we’re just making sure that she’s healthy, and safe but every day, she’s getting a little bit better. We will follow the protocol that’s needed. We’re lucky enough to have a full-time doctor so she gets care all the time. So yeah, there’ll be no risk to Ona. She’s progressing nicely every day. We will see towards the game that weekend.”

What has been clear to see this season is the strength and depth of the United squad with numerous different goal scorers hitting the back of the net which was on the agenda over the summer – something which has been key to the Red Devils’ positive start to the campaign.

“I think we’re growing in experience, which is what we needed. There were moments last year when we were exceptional, like really, really great and it’s consistency. That’s what the additions to the team have allowed us to do – find different ways to score goals. I think the most impressive stuff for me is the different amount of scorers we’ve had, which shows that we are a team rather than exceptional individuals.

“We want to be a team and we want to help each other and I think that’s going to be the difference. It’s a good start but that’s all it is. That’s really all it is. We have got to make sure we stay grounded stay level and do the best in every game which starts again against Leicester this weekend.

Manchester United will look to continue their unbeaten start to the 2022/23 WSL campaign against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium. Sunday afternoon’s match will be broadcast live on the FA Player with kick-off at 3pm.

Western United Welcome USWNT Star & City Sign Young Matildas Prospect

Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from Western United‘s World Cup-winning striker Jessica McDonald and head coach Mark Torcaso plus Melbourne City’s Young Matildas starlet Daniela Galic and head coach Rado Vidosic (19/10/22).

American World Cup-winning striker Jessica McDonald will light up the Liberty A-League Women after signing a guest contract with Western United’s inaugural women’s outfit.

McDonald will arrive in November and spend three months with the Green and Black, making her available for the opening nine matches of the season.

“I am super stoked to have another opportunity to play in Australia,” she said. “It’s always a great opportunity as an athlete to test your soccer knowledge and continue to learn in different ways, adjusting to the game how it’s played elsewhere. Hopefully, I can help another program succeed with what I can bring to the table.”

The 34-year-old joins with a world-class pedigree, being a FIFA Women’s World Cup champion with the United States in 2019. In total, McDonald has registered four goals and two assists in 19 matches for her country.

Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, McDonald has won three NWSL Shields and three NWSL Championships, claiming the Championship MVP for her brace in the 2018 final.

“We have focused heavily on ensuring that we are competitive in our inaugural season in the A-League Women competition, and securing Jess McDonald certainly helps that,” Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato said.

“Her qualities and presence up front as well as her experience and leadership over a lengthy career at the highest level will be invaluable to our squad, not only in this inaugural season, but going forward as a result of the impact she will create in the West.”

McDonald returns to the A-League after a stint with Melbourne Victory during the 2012/2013 season where she previously worked with United Head Coach Mark Torcaso.

“Jess is a phenomenal player and this is such a fantastic signing,” Torcaso said. “I’m so thankful for all of the work the Club has put in to secure her signature.

“Her records and achievements speak for themselves, she’s achieved the highest highs in the game and will bring that confidence and experience to the changeroom and to the pitch. With our previous relationship at Victory, it’s an easy fit for us both. Our fans are going to be amazed when they see her in action and I can’t wait to see the buzz that she will create while she’s here.”

McDonald will arrive in Melbourne at the beginning of November and will be ready to go for Western United’s blockbuster Round One clash against Melbourne Victory on Saturday November 19th.

Melbourne City have announced the signing of 16-year-old Young Matildas midfielder Daniela Galic ahead of the upcoming A-League Women’s season,

Widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in Australian football, Galic recently was a standout performer for the Young Matildas in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Despite being a few years younger than her teammates, she started all three matches and was awarded the Player of the Match award in the group game against Costa Rica.

An attacking midfielder who has been labelled by Matildas legend Grace Gill as the ‘future of Australian football’, Galic joins City for what will be her first season as professional.

Head Coach Rado Vidosic said he was delighted to have Galic as part of his squad this season.

“Daniela is a player we’ve rated very highly for a while now so we’re very excited to be able to bring her into the club this season,” Vidosic said.

“She has a very bright future ahead of her and now being part of a professional environment every day, we’re excited to see her continue to grow and develop as a player and person.”

Galic spoke of her excitement at the opportunity ahead with City and in her first season as a professional.

“Melbourne City has a great winning mentality and I know the coaches and club can really help me develop my football,” Galic said.

“I’m hoping to get as many minutes on the park as possible and l look forward to playing in a good team where I can continue to develop and improve my game alongside a great bunch of girls.”

Current 2022/23 City ALW Squad: Melissa BARBIERI, Chelsea BLISSETT, Emma CHECKER, Naomi CHINNAMA, Leah DAVIDSON, Daniela GALIC, Julia GROSSO, Bryleeh HENRY, Sally JAMES, Caitlin KARIC, Darcey MALONE, Leticia McKENNA, Holly McNAMARA*, Rhianna POLLICINA, Karly ROESTBAKKEN, Kaitlyn TORPEY, Tori TUMETH*, Hannah WILKINSON.

*Currently sidelined due to ACL injuries.

Foord & Eidevall Prepared For Toughest Test

Impetus’ Johnathan Stack was in Arsenal‘s media conference ahead of tonight’s Champions League opener at defending champions Olympique Lyonnais. Both Caitlin Foord and head coach Jonas Eidevall are expecting the hardest possible challenge, but are looking forward to analysing where they stand in comparison to Europe’s best (19/10/22).

Above: Caitlin Foord (left) and Katie McCabe train at the Groupama Stadium ahead of tonight’s big Champions League game with Olympique Lyonnais. Photo: Arsenal WFC.

Arsenal begin their UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign tonight as they face the defending champions of Europe, Olympique Lyonnais in France.

The Group C opener at Groupama Stadium will be a fascinating encounter because Lyon who beat Barcelona in last year’s final, have several major players missing for this evening’s clash. The likes of Ada Hegerberg, Catarina Macario, Dzsenifer Marozsán, and Matilda Ellie Carpenter to name just a few. The total number of absentees for the Champions of Europe runs into double figures. However, the French masters have options aplenty due to a combination of their strength in depth and strong youth set-up

**Above:** Caitlin Foord in possession against Brighton and Hove Albion. The Matildas star knows that The Gunners face a tough task despite Lyon’s long injury list. **Photo:** Arsenal WFC.

Despite the French club’s injury list, Arsenal and Australia attacker Caitlin Foord still views Lyon as the ones to beat in the UEFA Women’s Champions League this season.

Speaking ahead of tonight’s game, the New South Wales native gave her thoughts on Lyon saying: “Regardless of whether they have injuries or not, the squad they have is very strong. “The starting eleven that they put out (in their last match) is a world-class team so it is going to be a good challenge for us, I’m excited to play against them. We have a team of world-class players ourselves, so I think it is going to be a really good match.”

The Gunners are not new to facing the champions of Europe in the group stage of the competition as last season they faced the previous defending champions FC Barcelona and lost heavily in both group games. Foord reflected on how the North London side must be ready for their next big challenge.

“We definitely had a lot of learnings from those games, and we have obviously looked at those matches a lot heading into the big games. It purely comes down to us. I think we must be up for the challenge and ready for these games because in the previous games that we have had, we have seen what can happen and we don’t want that to happen again. We want to learn and improve from what went wrong in those games. This game will be a big challenge for us to see how far we have come.”

**Above:** Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall sees tonight’s game with Olympique Lyonnais as a chance to get an indicator of where his team are at present. Photo: Arsenal WFC.

Head Coach Jonas Eidevall spoke straight after Foord and he gave his views on the challenge his team faces saying: “I think we have a pretty good idea of what kind of opposition we’re gonna play at the top level in Europe, both from playing some of those teams that are in our domestic league but then also from our experience playing Barcelona and Wolfsburg last season.

I still think it’s always a really good opportunity to get that reality check to see where we are at this moment. So I definitely look forward a lot to it. It is always very exciting to see because no matter what, you will know exactly where we are at, what we need to continue to improve on, and what we are already good at. So, I’m really looking forward to seeing where we’re at.”

Arsenal’s game at Olympique Lyonnais is live on DAZN with kickoff at 8pm. Impetus’ Jean-Pierre Thiesset will be pitchside at the Groupama Stadium, his photo gallery will be on the site tomorrow.

City, Jets, And Canberra Add To Squads

With almost a month to go until the start of the A-League Women season, teams are still building their squads. Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from new arrivals Julia Grosso, Georgie Worth, and Vesna Milivojevic plus the head coaches of each of the teams concerned (18/10/22).

Above: Melbourne City’s new signing Julia Grosso. Graphic: Melbourne City.

Melbourne City announced the signing today of American winger Julia Grosso for the 2022/23 A-League Women’s season.

Also capable of playing as a full-back, the 23-year-old joins City directly from the US college system where she attended the University of Kentucky for five years. Grosso was a key member of the Wildcats line-up last season starting every match, while she’s also been captain of the team for the past two seasons.

She becomes the 17^th confirmed member of City’s squad for the upcoming season as Head Coach Rado Vidosic gets close to finalising his 2022/23 playing group.

Vidosic said Grosso’s signing adds further depth and versatility to the squad ahead of the new season.

“We’re excited to bring Julia to the club for what will be her first season as a professional,” he said. “It will be a new experience for her after years in the US college system, but we’re excited to work with her and help her reach the potential we can see she has.”

Grosso explained how excited she was by the opportunity in Melbourne and looking forward to getting to work.

“I wanted to join a club that is competitive, passionate, and dedicated to football,” Grosso said. “I have known of Melbourne City for a few years now and I am thrilled to be able to say that I’m a part of such an excellent club that strives for greatness.

“I know this team is capable of winning the double this year and I’m so excited to be a part of that journey, especially in my first professional season.”

Current 2022/23 City ALW Squad: Melissa BARBIERI, Chelsea BLISSETT, Emma CHECKER, Naomi CHINNAMA, Leah DAVIDSON, Julia GROSSO, Bryleeh HENRY, Sally JAMES, Caitlin KARIC, Darcey MALONE, Leticia McKENNA, Holly McNAMARA*, Rhianna POLLICINA, Karly ROESTBAKKEN, Kaitlyn TORPEY, Tori TUMETH*, Hannah WILKINSON.

* = Currently sidelined with injury.

Newcastle Jets have added goalkeeper Georgina Worth to their squad for the coming A-League Women’s season.

Worth joins the club from Brisbane Roar where she made her A-League debut against the Jets in 2017.

Coach Ash Wilson is happy to welcome Worth to the club. “Georgina is someone who has great presence in goal, experience playing at this level, and has a strong desire to have success in Newcastle. She is someone who will continue to create a challenging and supportive environment in that role and it’s important for me to have two quality keepers that will push each other to get the best out of themselves and the team.

“Her ability to deal with high balls, shot stopping, and passing range are some of her technical qualities but she also communicates well and is driven to contribute to the goals, culture, and ultimate success we are aiming for this season and I’m looking forward to her being a Jet.”

Worth herself cannot wait to begin the new season at the Newcastle Jets. “I’m very excited to have signed. I’ve heard nothing but great things about the club and everyone involved. The vision that Ash and the organisation have for the team really drew me to the club and I’m motivated to make a positive contribution both on and off the pitch. It’s shaping up to be a competitive season and I can’t wait to get started.”

**Above:** Canberra United’s new signing, Serbian international Vesna Milivojevic speaking to the media yesterday. **Image:** Canberra United.

Canberra United have agreed terms to sign exciting Serbian international midfielder Vesna Milivojevic for the forthcoming 2022/2023 Liberty A-League season.

Milivojevic made five appearances for Western Sydney Wanderers in the 2019/2020 season, making her much-publicised debut in a 2-1 win over Adelaide United, before heading overseas to pursue her football career in Serbia.

Capped nine times by Serbia, Milivojevic has represented her country in FIFA World Cup Qualification matches and scored her maiden international goal in a 4-1 away win over Bulgaria in November 2021.

“I am delighted to be returning to Australia and the Liberty A-League and signing for Canberra United for the upcoming season,” Milivojevic said.

“Having played for Western Sydney Wanderers against Canberra United, I have first-hand experience of them as a football side and have enjoyed playing against them and in front of their hugely enthusiastic fan base. I want to thank Njegosh Popovich and Canberra United for giving me the opportunity and I am looking forward to starting.”

After enjoying a short stint with German outfit BV Borussia Bocholt, Milivojevic returned to Serbia to re-join her first international club, ZFK Spartak Subotica where she was part of the squad that played two-time UEFA Women’s Champions League winners VfL Wolfsburg in 2020.

“I remember Vesna when she was a player for the NSW institute, she was on our long list for the Jnr Matildas, a player with brilliant passing range, carries the ball effortlessly, and has the priceless ability of being able to break the lines, important for a midfielder,” United Head Coach Njegosh Popovich commented.

“She has international experience in Europe with Serbia and has played in some big matches in her short career this only adds to her already impressive playing ability.

“A previous Player of the year in the NSW/NPL Vesna will bring extra authority to our midfield and having started her career in the Liberty A-League, should settle in very quickly. I am certain our supporters will enjoy watching her play and I welcome her to the club.”

Canberra United’s 2022/2023 Liberty A-League season begins on Saturday 19 November with a home match against Perth Glory at McKellar Park.

NWSL Quarter-Final Review

Impetus’ Blaise Ogutu brings us all the news from the first week of Finals action in the NWSL (18/10/22).

Above: San Diego Wave players celebrate after their comeback win over Chicago Red Stars. Photo: @sandiegowavefc.

Alex Morgan’s 110th-minute goal secured a comeback win for the San Diego Wave as they beat the Chicago Red Stars at the SnapDragon Stadium.

Chicago dominated proceedings in the opening minutes and made their opportunities count in the tenth minute through Yuki Nagasato. San Diego’s Kailen Sheridan’s bizarre attempt to pass failed to reach her teammate leaving Nagasato open for the lobbed pass beyond a hapless Sheridan putting the visitors ahead.

Wave grew more into the game despite the Red Stars having more clear-cut chances. At the half-hour mark, both Sarah Luebbert and Mallory Pugh had chances but Luebbert saw her shot gathered while Pugh’s attempt could only go wide.

Casey Stoney’s side ended the half in confidence with a flurry of chances. Midfielder Taylor Kornieck was the target of Wave’s corners but she could direct her header in the 41st minute into the back of the net. Alex Morgan, whose influence had been limited in the half also had her header saved four minutes later.

The home side started the second half dominant in possession and their persistence in Chicago’s half finally paid off in the 67th minute when Emily Van Egmond got the equaliser. Following brilliant play by Sofia Jakobsson down the left flank, the Swede’s cross was poorly dealt with and the Australian was in the right place to pick up the pieces and score her first of the season.

The goal would force the game to go to extra time as neither team could find the advantage over the other in the final minutes of the regular time.

Two minutes before the end of the first period, Airah Ali had a chance to put San Diego ahead with her first touches of the game but her shot rippled the side netting only. The momentum was in Stoney’s charges’ favour and Alex Morgan made it count putting them 2-1 ahead with ten minutes left in the game. The ball was well-rotated and found its way to Morgan on the left flank and from a tight angle managed to slot in the far corner past Alyssa Naeher.

San Diego would hold on to win the game and set up a semi-final clash against Portland Thorns in Providence Park next week.

**Above:** Kansas City Current’s Lo’eau LaBonta takes on Houston’s Nichelle Prince (8) and Sophie Schmidt (13) in the quarter-final clash. **Photo:** Erik Williams-USA Sports Today.

Earlier in the evening, Kate Del Fava’s last-gasp winner helped the Kansas City Current get over the Houston Dash away at the PNC Stadium in Houston.

The action was only three minutes old when Current were awarded a penalty. Dash defender Katie Naughton fouled Kristen Hamilton inside the area and after a couple of minutes, the ever-dependable Lo’eau LaBonta stepped up to easily slot in the spot-kick for the lead.

Parity was restored 16 minutes later when Sophie Schmidt fired in from the back post. From a Dash corner, Current goalkeeper Adrianna Franch could only punch the ball in Schmidt’s path and the Canadian made no mistakes in punishing the away side.

Neither team could exert their dominance for the remainder of the half but Ebony Salmon and Maria Sanchez made their presence felt with attempts and neither could get the net to bulge.

In the second half, the shot-stoppers from both ends had to be at their best to keep their teams in the game as they pulled off save after save. French had to deny Sanchez and Salmon again as she managed to tip over the English youngster’s effort over the bar. Jane Campbell on the other end was at hand to stop Elyse Bennett from helping Matt Porter’s charges to a lead.

A wild sequence of play emerged in the fourth minute of added time when Kansas City pushed forward to find the winner but Cece Kizer couldn’t stretch out enough to meet Bennett’s cross inside the box. Houston went down the other end seconds later with Michelle Alozie finding herself 1v1 with Franch but the keeper got the better of the Nigerian, blocking her shot that was aimed toward the far post.

In the tenth minute of stoppage time, Alex Loera and LaBonta combined superbly and Loera’s low cross led to a goalmouth scramble won by Del Fava to bundle in a scrappy goal, her first of the season to silence a sold-out PNC stadium.

Kansas City will now face NWSL Shield winners OL Reign next Sunday at Lumen Field in Seattle.

Norfolk Weekly Wrap

Impetus’ Darrell Allen provides his weekly round-up of all the women’s football action in Norfolk (18/10/22).

Above: Kamile Omeleviciute of Thetford Town who had penalty appeal turned down after her shot looked to have hit the hand of a UEA player in the first half. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos.

Main Match of the Week

University of East Anglia 0-1 Thetford Town

Thetford Town were victorious on the road as they defeated the University of East Anglia (UEA) thanks to a 78th-minute winner from Dayna Howard to progress to the Second Round of the Norfolk Women’s Cup.

The game played between the two teams from the tier seven Norfolk Women and Girls League saw UEA go into the game as favourites following a 100% winning record so far this season with them topping the league in the process. Thetford has had a mixed start to the season with one win, one draw, and one loss after three games.

UEA, roared on by a vocal support of people from across the University complex, started the game brightest with some good early pressure as they looked to continue their positive start to the season and it was only the heroism of Thetford Town defender Rachel Lynch that denied Ella Burnley the chance to open the scoring.

Thetford were denied a penalty a few minutes later when a shot from Kamile Omeleviciute hit raised hands of a UEA player but this was dismissed by referee Matthew Cotton.

In a game that lacked quality, and entertainment, there was very little action of note. UEA had a series of corners next but these were extremely poor and were dealt with comfortably by the visitors

Thetford ended the first half strongest as a throw-in from captain Melissa Boulton found Rebecca White who tried a shot from distance on the turn which was saved by Anoushka Williamson in the UEA goal.

White then had the final chance of the first half in added time when she was through on goal following a beautiful ball from the Thetford Town midfield but she could only slot wide of Williamson’s goal and the scores remained level at the break.

**Above:** Dayna Howard – Thetford Town’s goalscorer. **Photo:** Darren Gilham.

The second half followed a similar pattern of no real quality as both teams struggled to entertain on a poor surface at the University of East Anglia.

The play was then stopped for ten minutes when Thetford Towns Sausha Levy-Twomey was taken out following a horrendous challenge. Levy-Twomey required on-pitch attention from the paramedic assigned to the game as well as Thetford Town management David Skipp and Amber Browne.

In a contest that was sometimes feisty and a little nasty, the visitors kept their heads by rising above it and continued to try and play football in the right way.

The decisive moment came when Dayna Howard poked home from a corner in the 78th minute to spark wild scenes of celebration.

The game ended up having over 15 minutes of added time as Thetford Town Assistant Manager Stuart Terry required medical attention after being winded in the closing stages. UEA could only manage one shot between the goal and the final whistle which was comfortably dealt with by Lydia Ward in the Thetford goal.

This was an impressive win for Thetford Town coming away to one of Norfolk’s highest-regarded clubs and winning the game to seal a place in the Second Round of the Norfolk Women’s Cup.

Teams: UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA: Williamson, Brewer, Lee, Coombs, Goodenough, Powell, Thompson, Fuller, Burnley, Standing, Piejko. Subs: Woods, Appleton, Neale, Long, Stel.

THETFORD TOWN: Ward, Levy-Twomey, Klimcke, Omeleviciute, Lynch, Lloyd, Martins, Howard, Rogers, Boulton, White. Subs: Bambury, Musgrove, Davies, Page, Browne.

Scorer: Howard 78′

Referee: Matthew Cotton.

Attendance: 61.

Norfolk Wrap:

FA Women’s National League Division One South-East:

Above: Scorer of Norwich City’s Second Goal Natasha Snelling.Photo: Norwich City Women FC

Norwich City were beaten for the first time this season losing 3-2 at Chesham United, who gained their first win of the campaign as a consequence. A brace from Gemma Fraser and Emma Davies’ effort saw Chesham take victory. Rebecca Russell and Natasha Snelling were on target for Norwich City.

Eastern Region Premier Division:

**Above:** Jodie Hopkins (right) scored both of King’s Lynn Town’s goals in their defeat to Needham Market. **Photo:** Tim Smith.

Wroxham bounced back to winning ways with a thrilling 4-3 success at Colney Heath. Holly Connell scored a brace for the Yachtswomen with their other goals coming from Hannah Waters and Keela Olive. Colney Heath’s goalscorers were Hollie Thornton and a brace from Eliza Telford.

It wasn’t such a good day for King’s Lynn Town who were beaten 6-2 at The Walks by Needham Market. A hat-trick from Eva Hubbard plus goals from Eleanor Catchpole, Molly Hall, and Paige Wakefield saw the Marketwomen take all three points back to Suffolk. Jodie Hopkins scored both of King’s Lynn Town’s goals on the day.

Eastern Region Division One North:

In tier six, Fakenham Town were beaten 5-0 at AFC Dunstable. Gemma Whitchurch scored a hat-trick for the hosts with Mollie Burgess getting a brace.

Norfolk Women’s Cup First Round:

Thetford Town’s trip to the UEA was one of four first-round ties played on Sunday. In an all tier seven affair, Mulbarton Belles won 11-1 at Caister thanks to hat tricks from Rebekah Lake and Ellie Hunter. In addition, there was a brace from Eloise Peek with goals from Lucy Lincoln, Alice Smith, and Mollie Ryan completing the rout. Leah Brown scored for Caister.

Gorleston were 11-0 winners at FC Viking Valkyries in a game that saw Kelsi Adams, Hazel Saddington and Rebecca Waters all get hat-tricks with Sienna Saunders and Joana Patricia da Cunha Teixeira getting the remaining goals. In the day’s final tie, North Walsham Town beat Thorpe St. Andrew 2-0 thanks to goals from Rio Dobbie and Rhiannon Holt.

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One:

Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers were 11-0 winners at Stalham Town in a game that saw Shanice Sutton score five goals, Georgina Belton get a brace with the remaining four goals scored by Chelsea Brister, Siesha Hunphries, Betty Booker, and Phoebe Green. Long Stratton bounced back to winning ways with a 3-1 win at Bungay Town. Luci Middleton, Mary-Ann Hoy, and Emma Allsopp with the goals for Long Stratton with Selina Rowland scoring for the hosts. Sprowston were 2-1 winners at Beccles Town thanks to goals from Anais Winney and Rosie Milligan. Lucy Robbens scored for Beccles Town.

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two:

Aylsham continued their flying start to the season with a 10-0 victory against Horsford. Hat tricks from Hannah Claughton and Sophie Lubbock plus goals from Abbie Butcher Vicky Lubbock, Lana Clark, and Florence Simpkin saw the hosts take a comfortable victory. King’s Lynn Soccer Club were 4-1 winners at Shrublands thanks to goals from Kelsey Ramm, Trinity Tokaji, and a brace from Ellie Panks. Lacey Andrews scored for Shrublands. Bulldogs and Freethorpe shared the points in a 1-1 draw. Lauren Roberts scoring for Bulldogs with Kiera Squires getting the goal for Freethorpe.