(no title)

Rams Take The Honours Despite Aquino’s Heroics

Northern Tigers 0-0 Macarthur Rams (19/9/22)

Macarthur Rams win 6-5 on penalties

by Ryan Miller-Woods

Above: Macarthur Rams lift the NPLW NSW trophy after a dramatic Grand Final win over Northern Tigers. Photo: NPL NSW.

Macarthur Rams earned an incredibly hard-fought victory with a 6-5 win on penalties (0-0 after 120 minutes) against a massively determined Northern Tigers in the NPLW NSW Grand Final at the Valentine Sports Park.

To say that Macarthur had to earn it would be a massive understatement as the grit and sheer determination of the Tigers kept them the scoreline not only scoreless for a full 90 minutes and extra time. So many of Macarthur’s chances throughout the match were prevented by the spectacular and amazing performance by Northern Tigers’ goalkeeper and Player of the Match Morgan Aquino who truly played out of her skin from start to finish.

For Macarthur to have gone a full 120 minutes in the Semi-Final and then repeat that in this match as well is honestly so very impressive. Northern Tigers went into this match as the slight favourites to take home the bragging rights after their dismissive and very comfortable 3-0 victory over the Regular Season Premiers Sydney University in normal time.

The first major chance of the match for Macarthur with Melissa Caceres cutting into the Tigers’ box and laying the ball off to Leena Khamis just puts it over the bar for a Tigers’ goal kick.

**Above:** Valentine Sports Park, venue for yesterday’s Grand Final. **Photo:** Northern Tigers.

Khamis was involved again when Patricia Charalambous crosses the ball into the box but her header went just wide of the near post. Perth Glory A-League Women keeper Aquino was called into action again when Bethany Gordon’s cross went towards Murtagh whose first-time volley is amazingly pushed out of play and over the crossbar.

Murtagh created another opportunity when finding the unmarked Charalmabous in the box which called onAquino yet again to make an incredible save.

Near the end of the first half, Isabel Gomez for the Northern Tigers starts the most promising play that her side have had in the match, as she hit a long pass to Ashlee Brodigan who cut in from the right past McComasky. Possession was lost, but Beth Bernardi found Shadeene Evans, Impetus‘ charity partners Moriarty Foundation’s inaugural scholar, who returned the favour with the ball being passed forward to Josie Wilson who crosses it in but then goes out and over the fence for a Macarthur goal kick.

At the start of the second half, Evans produced a moment of magic as she is found by Gomez. The ball is returned to Evans who chests the ball brilliantly and has an amazing attempt that sails just wide.

As the whistle goes for the end of the second half, the scoreline remained goalless. There was little in the way of goalmouth action in the opening period of the extra half-hour, but come the second stanza, McNulty for the Tigers had a first-time shot that sailed over the crossbar. The final chance of 120 minutes, and the destination of the trophy would be decided from the penalty spot.

**Above:** Morgan Aquino – the Perth Glory A-League Women goalkeeper had a sensational match for the Northern Tigers, including successfully dispatching a penalty in the shoot-out – but she would finish a runner-up. **Photo:** Paul Kane/Getty Images via Perth Glory.

Macarthur took the first penalty in the shootout with Alex Huynh who slotted her penalty beautifully into the bottom left corner. McNulty for Northern Tigers is the next player to take a penalty whose penalty is almost saved by the legs of Shamiran Khamis for Macarthur but importantly for McNulty and the Tigers, it still went into the back of the net.

Holly Williams for Macarthur was the next to step up to the penalty spot and she subsequently hit her effort perfectly into the top left corner. Evans for the Northern Tigers saw her shot goes just wide of the left post. Kylie Ledbrook followed up for Macarthur and her shot was saved by Aquino.

Brodigan for Northern Tigers steps up next and slotted her penalty directly into the bottom right corner. Charalambous succeeded for Macarthur with her shot easily going into the back of the net. Gomez for the Northern Tigers calmly and casually walks up to the penalty spot that while Shamiran Khamis for Macarthur went the right way, Gomez perfectly placed her shot in the bottom left corner.

Gordon for Macarthur is the next up to the spot who places her penalty with a nicely found the net before goalkeeper Aquino stepped up for Northern Tigers and comfortably scored. She returned to her regular spot between the sticks but couldn’t keep out McComasky’s effort for Macarthur.

Bart for the Tigers then approached and placed her shot into the bottom left corner. Leena Khamis succeeded. Someone had to miss again, and that pain fell Abbey Green’s way for the Northern Tigers as Shamiran Khamis saved to ensure Macarthur became the 2022 NPLW NSW Champions.

**Above:** Isabelle Gomez (left) in action for Wellington Phoenix in the A-League Women – she had another superb game in defeat for the Northern Tigers. **Photo:** Western Sydney Wanderers.

There were not enough superlatives to describe the superb performance of Morgan Aquino. Time and time again, she played out of her skin and was really on another level during the match itself. It goes without saying, that there was no more deserving player to be the Player of the Match than her.

Gomez was absolutely amazing in the midfield, especially during the second half and really showed a lot of grit and determination with every ball that she played and every challenge that she made as she massively proved to be an incredibly crucial and integral player for the Tigers in this match. With how she played, she seriously proved why she has been an absolute star within the Northern Tigers throughout this entire season.

Shadeene Evans is also worthy of praise. The way that she played up front really was extremely beneficial to the Tigers with the chances that she made during the match. On another day for her, she could have very much been on the scoresheet. The skill that she showed with the chances made was honestly something entirely.

It was a deserved win for Macarthur Rams – but the superb Northern Tigers pushed them all the way. It was a fitting end to an excellent season.

Teams: MACARTHUR RAMS: S.Khamis, L.Khamis, Charalambous, Murtagh, Sunaga, Huynh, Malone, Caceres, B.Gordon, Foletta, Mccomasky. Substitutes: Williams, C.Gordon, Ledbrook, Duggan, Bishop, Clarke.

Penalties: Huynh (Scored), Williams (Scored), Ledbrook (Missed), Charalambous Gordon (Scored), McComasky (Scored), L.Khamis (Scored).

NORTHERN TIGERS: Aquino, Wilson, Green, Gomez, McNulty, Bart, Evans, Steinmetz, Bernardi, Brodigan, Kilbride. Substitutes: Cabezas, Fraser, Rickard, Mcmahon, Montenegro, Bartels.

Penalties: McNulty (Scored), Evans (Missed), Brodigan (Scored), Gomez (Scored), Aquino (Scored), Bart (Scored), Green (Missed)

Referee: Chloe Gray.

Jets Announce Another Two Squad Additions

Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from both Lucy Johnson and Chloe Walandouw along with Jets head coach Ash Wilson (19/9/22).

Above: Lucy Johnson returns. Artwork: Newcastle Jets.

Newcastle Jets today announced the re-signing of midfielder Lucy Johnson and a first senior contract for academy defender Chloe Walandouw for the 2022/23 season.

Johnson made her debut for the Jets last season, featuring in 13 matches across the campaign.

Newcastle Jets Coach Ash Wilson is thrilled to have secured Johnson’s services for another year.

“I’m pleased to be able to resign Lucy after a promising debut season. She is a player who plays with passion and commitment and has much potential. She is clever and creative and likes to contribute to attacking movements which suits the way we want to play.

“Lucy is also a versatile midfielder which gives us flexibility in what we want to do. I’m keen to see the confidence Lucy will grow with after last season and look forward to the impact she will have in this team.

Johnson spoke of her delight in re-signing with the Jets for the coming season. “I think we can build on the previous season and see some quality results come our way. I’m eager to get started with the girls and coaching staff in pre-season to ultimately contribute to a fantastic season ahead.”

**Above:** Chloe Walandouw – about to prepare for her first A-League Women season. **Photo:** Newcastle Jets.

Chloe Walandouw who has progressed through the Emerging Jets program will play her first season in the A-League having signed her maiden senior contract.

Jets Coach Ash Wilson is excited to watch her develop. “I’m very pleased and proud to be able to sign Chloe. She is an academy product who has represented every age group and wears the Newcastle Jets badge with pride.

“Chloe is a regular member of the under 17 National team who were recently crowned champions of the 2022 AFF Under 17 Tournament. She is a fullback who loves to get forward, using her speed and dribbling skills to contribute to positive attacks. Defensively, she loves a challenge and thrives in one-v-one situations.

“She is someone who epitomises the core values of our club and town, being hard working, having a good attitude, and being humble. These characteristics, combined with her technical quality and positive physical traits, will ensure she continues to grow and thrive in this elite environment. I look forward to working with Chloe and watching her development and I know she will take any opportunity she can to prove herself for this team.”

Walandouw is excited to be linking up with the Women’s side in her first season in the A-League, saying: “After coming through the Jets Academy Program I am looking forward to taking the next step in my football journey. I’m excited to become a part of the A-League environment and I’m wanting to challenge myself. I’m grateful for the opportunity and want to learn as much as possible from it.”

Matildas Announce Denmark Friendly

19/9/22

Above: The Matildas’ October international schedule is now locked in. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Australia will close out the October FIFA Women’s International Window with a trip to Midtjylland to face Denmark at Viborg Stadium on Tuesday, 11 October 2022.

Kicking off at 6.00pm local time, it will be the second meeting between the two nations in the last 15 months as they ramp up their preparations for the Women’s World Cup in earnest.

Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson was pleased to have secured a second opponent for October having announced a game against South Africa at an as yet-to-be-confirmed venue in London last week.

**Above:** Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson sees Denmark as a tough prospect. **Photo:** Football Australia.

“Having faced them in my early days with the team, we are all well aware of the quality of Denmark,” Gustavsson said. “Their quality is demonstrated in Denmark’s significant number of world-class players in the top teams and leagues.”

“In South Africa and Denmark, we have a chance to experience that difference in styles just days apart which will be our reality at the World Cup. As a team, it’s a great challenge in how we transition quickly in a tournament with only a short turnaround.”

After missing out on the most recent editions, Denmark will return to the World Cup one of nine European nations to recently book their ticket to Australia and New Zealand. Denmark produced an impressive campaign as Lars Søndergaard’s side topped UEFA Group E with eight wins and no losses to qualify for the global showcase for the first time since 2007.

October’s fixture will be the sixth meeting between Australia and the world number 17 and will come on the heels of the Matildas’ first-ever clash with South Africa at “home” in London.

**Above:** Denmark’s Pernille Harder, seen here in action for club side Chelsea, will be one of the Danish stars that Australia will need to keep quiet next month. **Photo:** Ben Gilby for *Impetus*.

Squad Changes And Injuries Impact As City Open Campaign

Impetus’ Johnathan Stack was in Manchester City head coach Gareth Taylor‘s media conference for us ahead of their season opener at Aston Villa tomorrow. Taylor knows that a mixture of key players departing and injuries make this game a major banana skin amongst a backdrop of concern over the players that have left the club (17/9/22).

Above: Manchester City head coach Gareth Taylor. Photo: Lynn Cameron/FA

It’s been a tough period for Manchester City. Key players have departed, a Champions League qualifying stage exit and fans have expressed concerns about what is going on. Despite the background of the Euros joy, it has not been the most joyful of summers in the sky-blue half of Manchester.

A rebuilding process has been required by City head coach Gareth Taylor and his staff down at the Etihad Campus after losing Lucy Bronze and Keira Walsh to Barcelona, Georgia Stanway to Bayern Munich, Caroline Weir to Real Madrid, with Karen Bardsley, Jill Scott, and Ellen White retiring.

**Above:** Talented teenage Australian international Mary Fowler’s arrival is potentially huge for Manchester City. **Photo:** Kris Goman for *Impetus*.

Manchester City did manage to fill in the gaps in the squad and brought in Matilda Mary Fowler from Montpellier, Deyna Castellanos and Laia Aleixandri from Atletico Madrid, Leila Ouahabi from Barcelona, Sandy MacIver from Everton, Kerstin Casparij from Twente and Yui Hasegawa from West Ham.

Hasegawa was brought in after City sold Lioness midfielder Walsh for a world record fee of £400,000.

After the delayed start to the season City will now begin their season, with a trip to Villa Park to face Aston Villa.

In his media conference, City head coach Gareth Taylor recognised he had lost key players, but was positive overall. “I think we’re in a good place. We have lost experience, but we’ve brought in players we think are good for the future, we’ve probably lowered the average age quite a bit.

“With that sometimes you don’t want to lose all that experience but there were various circumstances with all the players. Probably more recently, Ellen’s retirement and Keira moving late was a bit of a jolt, up until then we were in a good place and it left us with a week or so once we realised Keira had requested to leave.”
Gareth Taylor, Manchester City head coach.

“We had to strengthen and we managed to do that with Yui, we were pleased to bring her to the Club. There’s been a lot of changes but we’re pretty content with where we’re at as a squad of players.”

**Above:** Gareth Taylor – the Manchester City head coach needs a winning start tomorrow after a testing summer. **Photo:** Sky Sports.

Ahead of the game with Villa, Taylor said that Ruby Mace and Yui Hasegawa would be unavailable through injury while Matilda Alanna Kennedy could return to the squad after picking up an injury while on international duty with Australia. Taylor said “Ruby Mace won’t make it. That’s a certainty,” Taylor explained.

“She has had a little bit of a setback in her injury so it will be an extended period away from the team.

“Alanna Kennedy is close to returning but we’re not sure if she is going to have enough training minutes under her belt to be a part of the squad.

“They’re quite similar injuries, (Ruby and Alanna) both muscle injuries in the thigh region. Hopefully, they won’t be too far away.

**Above:** Alanna Kennedy could potentially miss tomorrow’s trip to the Midlands. **Photo:** Sky Sports.

“Yui is struggling a little with an ankle injury she sustained on the final day training with West Ham so she won’t make the weekend. Outside of that, the squad is healthy.”

You can read Impetus‘ Nathan Edwards‘ account of Aston Villa head coach Carla Ward’s media conference ahead of tomorrow’s match here: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/09/17/carla-ward-city-are-still-formidable-opponents/

Aston Villa vs Manchester City takes place on Sunday at Villa Park with a 12:30pm KO local time, 9:30pm AEST, 7:30pm AWST, 1:30pm CET. On the UK it is live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

Carla Ward: City Are Still Formidable Opponents

Impetus’ Nathan Edwards was in Aston Villa head coach Carla Ward‘s media conference for us yesterday as she disregarded opponents Manchester City’s big-name losses and looks ahead to her own team’s further development this season (17/9/22).

Above: Aston Villa head coach Carla Ward. Photo: AVWFC Official.

Carla Ward has loved “people saying we will get relegated” ahead of their opening WSL game against a Manchester City team that has had a hectic summer transfer window.

City head to Villa Park in a redefined shape after big departures during the transfer window. However, despite Lucy Bronze, Keira Walsh, and Caroline Weir’s transfers, Ward still expects a familar opponent.

The 38-year-old said, “Man City are still very strong, their squad is unbelievably experienced and it still has got a lot of quality.

“I know you are looking for a line for me to say they are going to go to pot, but they are not. They have world-class internationals and they have recruited well after losing some big players.

“Do I think they will finish top three? Absolutely. We won’t underestimate them but it is down to us and we can’t fear them.”

The Citizens have seen nine players leave this window, but Ward still believes they will head into Sunday’s fixture as favourites and it is also a chance to see a new-look Villa side.

**Above:** Aston Villa’s new signing, Lionesses star Rachel Daly. **Photo:** AVWFC Official.

The Villans added Euro winner Rachel Daly, who started all of England’s games in their victorious campaign as a left-sided defender, but the Lionesses star will lead the line for Ward’s side.

“She played at left back for her country because she is a wonderfully talented footballer and you have to find a spot for Rachel Daly.

“She is an unbelievable human being, with a lot of quality on and off the pitch, but she comes in as a forward for us,” said the Villa manager

With the English international’s arrival from Houston Dash, Villa will hope to have someone who can score the goals needed to see them improve on last season’s ninth-place finish.

“We will be pleased with anything top eight. We have to keep improving each year, and I have seen people say we will get relegated which I love and be sure to put up on the wall.

“But Aston Villa as a club aren’t here to try to run before we can walk. It is a project that will slowly but surely make those steps.

“We believe we have had a good summer, which will help us get on the right track and some of the people we have brought in have allowed our youth team players to step up as well.

“We have a really good blend of youth and experience because the likes of Laura Brown, Izzy Goodwin, Freya Gregory, and Olivia McLoughlin are all knocking on the door for starting shirts, and that has been made possible with the guidance from the players we have brought in.”

The game on Sunday is also the first of four games being contested at Villa Park, Aston Villa men’s home ground, this season. Ward said “It will be good to play at Villa Park, but the build-up is like no other. Everything we do now is for points and we need to be ready to take points.”

Tigers Set For Rams Showdown After Huge Semi Win

Impetus’ Ryan Miller-Woods previews tomorrow’s NPLW NSW Grand Final which sees Northern Tigers face off against Macarthur Rams in the season’s defining match (17/9/22).

Above: Hannah McNulty of Northern Tigers (left) and Bethany Gordon of Macarthur Rams prepare to face off in tomorrow’s NPLW NSW Grand Final. Photo: NPLNSW.

It has all come down to this. After 22 matches in the regular season and two semi-finals, we are down to just the two teams that have made it to the NPLW NSW Grand Final who will be both vying to be ones’ victorious come the final whistle on Sunday as Northern Tigers take on Macarthur Rams at Valentine Sports Park.

Macarthur Rams sealed their spot in the Grand Final first against APIA Leichhardt last week in a clash that went a full 120 minutes. A great goal by Bethany Gordon being the decisive moment in the second period of extra time to send Macarthur through to ‘The Big Dance’, the 2022 NPLW NSW Grand Final after Shea Connors’ strike for APIA had sent the match into a further half-hour.

As for the second of the two semi-finals that were played, it was the Regular Season Premiers Sydney University up against Northern Tigers. As well as having the premiers title in their back pocket, Sydney University could also point to two wins against the Tigers during the regular season, having defeated their opponents 1-0 at home in Round 11 and 4-2 away in Round 22.

**Above:** Shadeene Evans, pictured with John Moriarty from *Impetus* charity partners Moriarty Foundation, took the semi-final by storm with two goals for Northern Tigers. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Moriarty Foundation.

Maybe it was the prospect of the bigger picture for the Northern Tigers knowing what a victory would mean for them in this particular match or a switch went off knowing exactly what was required of them to finally have Sydney University’s number but either way, to say that a 3-0 victory for them against arguably the best team all season in the NPLW NSW was expected, was not what many of us would have had on our bingo cards. Impetus charity partners Moriarty Foundation’s inaugural scholarship holder Shadeene Evans popped up with two goals, with Beth Bernardi adding the other to see them comfortably make it through to this Sunday’s Grand Final.

The tale of the tape between the two sides during this season was a 1-0 victory in Round Five to the Northern Tigers thanks to the only goal in the match being scored by Ashlee Brodigan and a 1-1 draw in Round 16 with goals from Isabel Gomez and Patricia Charalambous for the Northern Tigers and Macarthur Rams respectively.

**Above:** The Macarthur Rams squad that made the Grand Final. Beth Gordon (seventh from the left front row) has been an impressive performer. **Photo:** NPLNSW.

There are two players (in my opinion) to watch out for in the Grand Final – Beth Gordon of Macarthur Rams and Isabel Gomez of Northern Tigers.

Gordon’s goal against APIA Leichhardt in the Semi-Final will surely make her feel like she is on top of the world at the moment as it is one thing to score a goal that takes your side to a Grand Final, it is another thing altogether to score the way that she did.

Gomez has truly been a star amongst the Northern Tigers this season. She is such a skilful and graceful player with the ball at her feet. Gomez truly makes it look so effortless when she is out there on the pitch. In my eyes she can honestly make or break a match with her presence, as the way she conducts herself match in, match out, is a massive benefit to players that are around her as she is an integral player within the squad.

**Above:** The victorious Northern Tigers semi-final winning squad. **Photo:** NPLNSW.

Her form in the NPLW NSW bodes well for her second season in the A-League Women at Wellington Phoenix.

Overall, Northern Tigers are favourites for Sunday’s showdown mainly due to their comprehensive dismissal of Sydney University in last week’s semi-final. They will be full of confidence that they can continue from where they have left off in that match and show the quality within their ranks.

Macarthur Rams will certainly pose a big challenge for the Tigers. They showed their grit and determination to overcome the concession of an equaliser in their semi against APIA Leichhardt to come back and win in extra-time – although the extra minutes in their legs may equally prove a factor.

The match in itself is shaping to be something that could be quite the spectacle to watch given how both sides have made it to this point and either side will surely not let the other team take home the bragging rights without a fight.

The official match programme for the game can be downloaded here: https://footballnsw.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Womens-NPL-grand-final-program.pdf

The NPLW NSW Grand Final between Northern Tigers and Macarthur Rams kicks off at 3:00pm local time – 6:00am UK time, 7:00am CET. It will be broadcast live on NPL TV where it can also be viewed on demand anywhere around the world.

Chelsea Travel To Liverpool On A Mission To Be Better

Impetus’ Kieran Yap was in Chelsea head coach Emma Hayes‘ media conference for us today, and heard her reveal her huge respect for Sunday’s opponents, and why she is determined her side will be better than ever this season (16/9/22).

Above: Lifting trophies has become a habit for Chelsea head coach Emma Hayes, but she wants her team to be even better this season. Photo: Sky Sports.

Chelsea FC will once again kick off the season as defending champions. Emma Hayes’ team were scheduled to open their campaign against West Ham United in front of a sold-out Stamford Bridge last weekend, but instead they will now travel to face Liverpool on Sunday.

“I love going back to Liverpool,” Hayes told the media. “I studied up there so it’s great. I get to see friends, playing at Prenton Park has always been a good stadium to go to. It’s great that the women have a top-quality surface to play on. The game, where it’s at, we need to be playing on the best surface.”

Hayes remains philosophical about the postponement of last week’s fixtures. She believes that the games were called off for the right reasons and another chance to play in the men’s stadiums will present itself.

“Our country has lost unbelievable service from a person who has given absolutely everything to her country during her reign. For the right reasons the game didn’t happen, and I don’t think it will be the last time we will sell out Stamford Bridge.

“As far as I’m concerned, I’m more than happy to kick off away to Liverpool because I support the rationale for why the games didn’t take place.”

The delayed start to the season may have frustrated some supporters, but the trophy-collecting manager is confident it has not impacted her side’s focus or preparation. The past experience of playing football during COVID has left everybody in football flexible and ready for last minute changes.

The potential for stalled momentum following the massive crowds at England’s Euro win was brushed aside by the Chelsea manager.

“The women’s game is taking care of itself. I think the summer is another demonstration of the quality on show that’s been building in the WSL. I’ve said many times before it’s the best league in the world, I think it’s the most competitive.

**Above:** Emma Hayes knows that her team will face stiff challenges this season, starting at Prenton Park on Sunday. **Photo:** PA Images.

“I think that every team had strengthened, and this is another year where the quality is going to get better and better across the board. It’s been an enjoyable pre-season where the team are as prepared as the can be going into the opening weekend. We just really need to kick off to see how much progress we’ve made during the summer weeks.”

Liverpool is one of the giant names in world sport, and Hayes is happy that they have returned to the FAWSL. They finished top of the Championship 11 points clear of London City Lionesses and only lost twice out of 22 matches in 2021/22.

Although newly promoted sides traditionally struggle in the FAWSL, Hayes does not anticipate Liverpool will have the same difficulties.

“It’s great,” said Hayes. “Matt (Beard) is an experienced manager who I think has built a solid squad going into the season. It’s great to see that they’re back up in the top division. We’re just looking forward to playing them on Sunday.

“He knows the league… he knows what it takes at this level. Liverpool will not struggle, I think they will be very competitive this year.”

As they hunt for their fourth consecutive league title, Chelsea’s squad will look a little different this season. Some legends of the Hayes era such as Ji So-Yun and Drew Spence have departed, and the club has recruited impressively in the off-season.

Kadeisha Buchanan joined from Lyon, and the central defender made a strong impression in pre-season both on and off the field.

“She’s a winner,’ says Hayes of the Canadian international. “She’s been performing at a high level for a long time for both club and country. She is coming to Chelsea because she wants the challenge. I’m sure this will be an environment which will challenge her to continue with those consistencies and those habits and become on the absolute best. She’s slotted in really well, a really good character and a funny girl.”

**Above:** Emma Hayes and Lauren James, who she believes will benefit from her first pre-season in four years. **Photo:** VisionHaus.

Lauren James may not exactly be a new recruit, but she will inherit Ji’s number 10 shirt. Hayes is excited about her as a long-term Chelsea prospect but urges patience with the rising star.

“I think it’s probably Lauren’s first preseason in maybe four years. She’ll keep gradually building, not to expect too much too soon. She’s still learning all the details around how to be a top professional. Everybody’s aware of her talent, our job this year is to keep her healthy, keep her on the grass and I’m sure she’ll contribute to the team throughout the season.”

Chelsea has a full squad to pick from this Sunday. There are no surprise injuries and Hayes’ biggest problem is fitting all that quality into just 11 places on the field. Erin Cuthbert is expected to play a deeper midfield role this season and Ballon D’or nominee Sam Kerr is fit to defend her Golden Boot status.

For Hayes, the mantra for the season is simple and perhaps frightening for the other sides in the FAWSL.

“I just want to get better,” says the OBE and MBE recipient, and 2022’s manager of the year. I’m not focussed on winning (the league) I just want to get better. I want to make sure training is top class tomorrow.

“I want to make sure that the starters I select perform at the levels we demand in this environment.”

Chelsea play Liverpool on Sunday at 5pm local time.

Chambers Positive Ahead Of United Clash

by Holly Wright (16/9/22)

Above: Reading head coach Kelly Chambers. Photo: Reading FC Women.

Reading kick-off their Barclays Women’s Super League campaign at Manchester United at midday tomorrow – a team that head coach Kelly Chambers describes as “one of the toughest teams in the league.”

Chambers also highlighted her eagerness for the campaign to get underway. “Yeah, look, we’re just excited to get going. We just want a competitive game really. We want to kick off on a positive and what a way to start than in the same way we began last season. So yeah, everyone’s raring to go and I think we’re just bored of preseason now and want to get going.”

The cancellation of last weekend’s opening fixture under unforeseen circumstances could be seen as a missed opportunity after the Lionesses’ success in the summer, but the Reading head coach remains optimistic for the season ahead in terms of attracting a good crowd.

“Obviously, it’s something that we had to do. We had to show our respects but for us and probably everyone else wanting to kick off the league, it was frustrating. We were due to have over 4,000 fans there in that game, and you kind of go that would have been the biggest crowd we’ve ever had at that stadium. People have worked really, really hard to try and grow the club so yeah, it’s definitely a missed opportunity. Just hope that those people that bought tickets for last weekend will come to the next game and make sure they see it for themselves to hopefully fall in love just as much as we do.”

After the tragic death of Queen Elizabeth ll delayed the start of the WSL season last weekend as a mark of respect, Chambers spoke of how her preparations have changed from what was going to be a record crowd at home to newly promoted Liverpool to champions league contenders Manchester United. “They are a team that are competing to be in the Champions League and for a club like Man United, that’s where they definitely should be. So, we know it’s going to be a tough game and I feel like more so this season.”

“For us, it’s about staying in the game as long as possible. We know that a weakness of theirs right now or it has been in the past, is the end of the game. They’ve chucked a lot of points away in latter stages of games.
Emma Chambers, Reading head coach on Manchester United.

“I’ve got a team that’s full of confidence right now, in terms of the way that we’re playing and the way that we want to do stuff. It’s important for me, and for them, that they turn up at United, and they put a mark on there on the pitch and make sure that were fully in the game from the off.”

**Above:** Emma Chambers is confident that her team can take points at Leigh Sports Village tomorrow. **Photo:** Reading FC Women.

Chambers was also full of praise for new club captain Emma Mukandi (aka Mitch) who was awarded the armband after recently signing a new deal with the club. “It’s something I wanted to take time to do. I wanted to get a real good feel for players in preseason, just work with them and let everybody settle.

“Mitch is like a new signing to me after not having her much last season. She has got a huge depth of knowledge and experience in the women’s game, obviously, being at Arsenal, and she’s a winner. She’s a competitor and I want this environment to be challenging every day. So that’s why I’ve gone with Mitch because I think that’s what she’ll bring.

Reading’s head coach added what she thinks Mitch will bring to the squad not just as a captain and what it meant to her personally. “She will make sure that people keep high standards. She will make sure that people are living and breathing what we want to do every day that’s the reason I picked her. I think she was quite surprised.

“Like I said she’s been away from us for quite a while, so she definitely wasn’t expecting it but seemed really pleased. She was quiet. She said to me, she was honoured to be even just thought about to be selected and to work closely with me. Yeah, I’m really excited to be leading the way with Grace this year.”

Like their hosts, the Royals have added to their squad in the summer transfer market with six new signings and they will be keen to use them to improve on their eighth-place finish last season with Chambers believing they are in a much stronger position this season after struggling with injuries towards the latter end of last season.

“I’ve put together a real good squad in terms of strength and depth. The competition for places here and having a challenging environment is key and I think that’s really what’s driving the standards and us a club right and as a team.”

**Above:** Reading preparing on the training pitch this week. **Photo:** Reading FC Women.

Since the Royals beat United at Leigh Sports Village in February 2021, they have only dropped eight points with fellow title contenders Chelsea and Arsenal being the only sides to beat them, but Chambers feel like the women’s game is on an all-time high and it is important for clubs to capitalise on the publicity created by the Lionesses winning the Euros.

“It’s magnificent for the game. This is what we want. We wanted to grow fan bases. We want more crowds in stadiums, and that is high on the agenda for every club in this league right now. I think that’s been the immediate impact from the Euros. When your country wins a competition like that you’ve got to use that, and we’ve got to try and really grow the game. It’s made people in this country more aware of the sport, and the quality of it. I think people just fell in love with it. Everyone I speak to about it, and people speak to me, they have fallen in love with women’s football just from that and it’s just great now for us as clubs to see the benefit of that as well.

Reading are currently the only non-Premier League team with a club in the WSL, but the club deserve their status: “Yeah, for us, it’s a sense of pride,” Chambers said, “We’re proud to be where we are. I think we always have been. Some might say that we’ve always punched above our weight. But I truly believe that we deserve to be there.

After a positive start which included an eight-game unbeaten run with seven of them being wins stretching from October to February they probably should have finished at least in the top half of the table, but last season’s campaign ended in frustrating circumstances falling to seven defeats in 10 games achieving only three points meaning the Royals tumble down the league table as a result of limited resources due to injuries.

Reading will hope they can begin the new campaign with their first WSL victory since February 6^th when face they Manchester United on Saturday lunchtime 12pm kick-off at Leigh Sports Village.

Powell Hopeful Ahead Of Gunners Test

Ahead of tonight’s WSL opener against Arsenal, Holly Wright heard from Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Hope Powell at her media conference for us.

Above: Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Hope Powell speaking to the media. Photo: Brighton and Hove Albion Women.

A week later than anticipated and the start of the WSL is here beginning with Brighton and Hove Albion’s trip to Meadow Park to face last season’s runner-up Arsenal.

Albion boss Hope Powell expressed her opinion that the extra weekend off actually did her and her team a favour. “Very sad news for the Royal Family but we’ve just been getting on with it really. It hasn’t affected our training and preparation in any way apart from the game last week, obviously being called off, which in hindsight, actually did us a favour because a lot of international players just got back, and it would have meant a day’s prep for a really tough game so in the end its kind of all worked out well for us. It gave us more time to work on the Arsenal fixture.”

Having played the Gunners three times last season, losing out on all occasions Brighton will no doubt start the game as the underdogs, but Powell expresses that her side are definitely not going to make it easy for them under the Friday night floodlights and what is expected to be in front of a sell-out crowd.

“It’s a sell-out I believe, which would be good for the women’s game and good for us as a club. I think the expectation would be for Arsenal to win the game. We are under no illusions there, but we are not going to give it to them. We are going to make it very difficult, and the plan is to try and get something out of the game as we do every game so a Friday night under the lights suits me perfectly and at least I get a day off on Saturday which is rare.

Powell has had a busy summer transfer market and it is clear to see that one aspect she is focussing on improving in Brighton’s game this campaign is their creativity in front of goal. The Brighton head coach was quick to highlight Elisabeth Terland as one of their standout signings and what additions she will bring to the squad.

“I think Elisabeth, is a good goal scorer. I think she can play up front or she can play slightly deeper if need be. Then you’ve got someone like Vea Sarri, who is an out-and-out ball dribbler, a ball carrier. I think it just gives us different options, to be honest with different personnel who offer different skill sets and we hope that will sort of bear us going forward. The reason we brought them in was to try and add some value to it and hopefully during the course of the season, we get to see that.”

**Above:** Hope Powell coaching on the training pitch. **Photo:** Brighton and Hove Albion Women.

She added how satisfied she was with their business over the closed season with the possibility of more to come over the campaign. “I am really pleased with the work that’s been done. We are probably a little bit light on players. We perhaps wanted a couple more in but for various reasons couldn’t get it over the line. We control what we can control, which is now, and then if and when the window opens again, we’ll be looking again.”

Numerous signings are new to the league or new to the English way of football with Powell emphasising how important pre-season was for them to integrate into the squad and them to know each other not just on the pitch but off it as well. “For some of them, the league is new. The summer has been quite long given the Euros, so they are ready to play in games now and excited by the prospect. They have blended quite well.

“The preseason tour away was really good. It gave us an opportunity to focus on team building. They are with each other all day every day and I think they have started to get to know each other as people, which is really important. For me it’s more important that they get to know each other as players on the pitch and this preseason has been focusing on that. Playing together, understanding the nuances of each player, and credit to them they are getting on with it. It feels like they have been here for a considerable amount of time, which is really, nice.”

After the success of the Lionesses in the Euros, the focus returns back to club football where there is a huge attraction from overseas for players to come and play in the most physically demanding league in women’s football. Being involved at the highest level for numerous years Powell explained just how different the WSL is from European Leagues and how individuals have benefitted from the appealing style of football seen week in week out.

“I think if you speak to the new players that are experienced from last season, and you ask them what the differences are, they say it’s quicker, it’s faster, it’s a lot more physical. They have had to adapt, and they have done that very quickly. Your speed of thought has to be quicker. Your pace of play has to be quicker. Physically, you need to be stronger, and they have grown into it. Playing week in week out is giving them the ability to adapt and improve. The strength of the league compared to others is definitely a lot more demanding, than some in Europe.

Going into this evening’s game, the Brighton head coach hasn’t got the advantage of a full squad to pick from for reasons not shared, but is raring to get going and kick off the 2022/23 WSL campaign with a bang.

Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall’s media conference ahead of the match was attended by Impetus’ Johnathan Stack and can be read here: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/09/15/arsenal-ready-and-gunning-for-glory/

Arsenal vs Brighton and Hove Albion kicks off at 7.30pm with the match being broadcast live on FA Player.

Canberra, Western United, And Adelaide United Add Major Names

On another day of announcement of prominent player signings at A-League Women clubs, Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from Grace Maher, Tyla-Jay Vlajnic, Melinda Barbieri, and Meisha Westland along with the head coaches of each of the teams involved (16/9/22).

Above: Grace Maher (right) has signed on for another campaign at Canberra United. Photo: Canberra United.

Canberra United are delighted to welcome back midfield playmaker Grace Maher who has re-signed with the club for the forthcoming Liberty A-League season.

The talented Canberra local has been a mainstay of the club in recent seasons, having burst onto the elite level scene as a teenager, going on to make over seventy appearances in the league, scoring ten goals in the process.

Widely known for her ability to strike from range, Maher is a fan favourite having initially made her name in the local leagues before being snapped up to make her Canberra United debut in the 2014 season.

“I am thrilled to be signing for Canberra United for another season in green and am looking forward to working with Njegosh (Popovich), the Canberra United staff, and the rest of the squad,” Maher said.

“Canberra United are my local team and, whilst it may be cliché, they are my team and one that I feel privileged to play for. To represent my hometown team in the national competition is something I treasure, and I can’t wait to get back out in front of our magnificent supporters.

“Njegosh is building a squad that will be capable of playing creative, attractive football and with the combination of our loved homegrown players and new interstate talent, we will be fighting to bring trophies home to Canberra for the 2022/23 season.”

Maher, who has represented Australia at U17 and U20 levels, has spent all of her career with United, bar a couple of campaigns with Melbourne Victory, and has scored nine goals for Canberra and one for the Melbourne-based side.

“Grace is a top-class player, a technician, who has excellent control, a wide range of passing, and the ability to strike at goal from distance,” Njegosh Popovich, United’s Head Coach, said of the signing.

“We have witnessed at first-hand the qualities that Grace possesses over her eight seasons in the Liberty A-League and I am delighted that she has decided to re-sign for another season with the club.

“Not only is she a great footballer, but she also brings an understanding of Canberra and the culture of the club and the city, and that is important when you are building a harmonious and successful football club.”

Western United have added another quality player to their ever-growing inaugural squad with the arrival of four-time A-League Women Champion Tyla-Jay Vlajnic.

The 31-year-old has been a mainstay at Melbourne City since 2015, making over 50 appearances and helping the side to four Championships and two Premierships.

Vlajnic, who has represented the Serbia national team, is eager for a new start and more success with Western United’s first-ever women’s team.

“I am incredibly excited to join Western United this season. As a new team joining the league, we have an amazing opportunity to set a new benchmark for women’s football here in Australia,” she said.

“An inaugural year means we have the ability to create something special, and that’s pretty exciting. I am so grateful for the success I have already achieved but I’m ready for more in the Green and Black.”

Vlajnic has also had a strong career in NPLW Victoria where she helped Calder United to a Championship and Premiership double in 2016 before moving to Bulleen Lions in recent years.

Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso is excited to work with Vlajnic again and is confident she will have a strong impact on the group.

“TJ has been a stalwart in Australian football and having her join us and want to be a part of our project is really important,” he said.

“The entire group will be able to lean on her experience and all of the success that she has had, but she still has the hunger to continue to achieve more with us at Western United and her drive and leadership will be able to push the rest of the players throughout the year.

“I’ve known TJ for some time and I am really delighted to work with her again, and I’m sure she will have a big impact on our group.”

Vlajnic can play in either full-back position or higher up on the wing when needed, with a strong mix of defensive and attacking abilities.

She becomes United’s 15th signing as the Club continues to fill its inaugural A-League Women side ahead of the beginning of pre-season in October.

Adelaide United today unveiled the signings of midfielders MelindaJ Barbieri and Meisha Westland for the upcoming Liberty A-League 2022/23 season.

Barbieri had spent the last seven campaigns at Melbourne Victory, recording 66 appearances and scoring four goals.

A two-time Liberty A-League Champion, the 22-year-old bolsters the squad with her versatility allowing her to feature not only in midfield but also on the wing.

Speaking about her decision to join Adelaide, Barbieri said: “I’m really eager about this new opportunity with Adelaide United.

“Over the last four or five years, they’ve really transformed into an extremely competitive team and play an attacking, attractive brand of football. This is a new challenge for me and one that I cannot wait to get started and help this team take the next step and win a championship.”

Meanwhile, Westland enjoyed her first experience of Liberty A-League football last year, playing 12 matches with Melbourne City. The 21-year-old is a defensive midfielder and has spent the offseason in the NPL NSW Women’s with Manly United.

Westland said: “Adelaide’s style of play captivated me last year and the opportunity to work under Adrian (Stenta) was simply one I had to jump at. I am looking forward to helping the team have another successful season this year and can’t wait to get started.”

Adelaide United’s Liberty A-League Head Coach, Adrian Stenta, said: “MelindaJ and Meisha arrive with plenty of quality.

“MelindaJ’s been part of squads that have lifted silverware, so that will be extremely beneficial to our playing group and offers our team real tactical flexibility.

“Meisha is a player that we believe can contribute to our midfield and provides depth in the centre of the pitch, having been introduced to this level last season.”