With big matches impacting the top and bottom of the table played both last night and tonight, Impetus’ Ben Gilby provides a special additional round-up of the action from Western Australia (27/7/22)
Above: Jaime Duncanson, whose Perth SC side became the first team to avoid defeat against Perth RedStar this season in the NPLW WA tonight. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
RedStar Forced To Wait To Be Crowned Champions
Above: Perth RedStar’s Jay Coleman (centre) who forced Perth SC goalkeeper Rebecca Bennett into a save tonight. Photo: Fotoenzo.
After their perfect season of 14 wins, plus the weekend’s State Cup Final victory and success in the pre-season Night Series tournament, Perth RedStar knew that victory at home to Perth SC tonight would see them clinch the NPLW WA title with an incredible six games still to play.
It was never going to be an easy assignment, The Azzurri have tested RedStar in both previous meetings this season, the most recent being Sunday’s State Cup Final showdown at Inglewood Stadium.
The hosts had three changes to their starting line-up with Andreia Teixeira, Jay Coleman, and Larissa Walsh dropping down to the bench with Ruby Cohen, Renee Leota, and Jayna Ridley stepping up. Quyen Doan, a sub on Sunday was not in the squad, and former Matilda Kim Carroll came in.
Perth SC were missing valued attacker Abbey Meakins, who was replaced by Ella Lincoln. Jessica Byrne, who was on the bench in Sunday’s Cup Final was out, with Katie Ritchie listed instead.
The Azzurri mustered several early chances with Lincoln denied by RedStar Shivani Battaglia twice in the opening 90 seconds. RedStar had a half chance just with nine minutes on the clock with a long-range shot from Shawn Billam that was held comfortably by Rebecca Bennett in the Perth SC goal.
Above: Perth SC’s Ella Lincoln, who had two great chances for The Azzurri in the opening 90 seconds. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Back came Perth SC with a spell of three corners in five minutes either side of the half-hour mark, but RedStar forced Bennett into making a save from Ridley just before the break.
Billam fashioned the first shot on goal in the second period, but once more Bennett in the Azzurri goal held on. Just past the hour mark, an idiosyncratic run from Perth SC star Jaime Duncanson saw her accelerate along the left wing, cut inside, and hit a powerful effort that Battaglia did well to repel.
Both sides had half chances in the final quarter of an hour with RedStar’s Coleman hitting a low effort from the edge of the box that Bennett claimed, and after breaking through Duncanson failed to get enough power in her shot to concern Battaglia. The contest finished goalless.
Perth SC have become the first side to prevent Perth RedStar from winning an NPLW WA match this season, and in the process have caused Carlos Vega Mena’s side to keep the title-winning champagne on ice. However, it’s only a matter of time, and RedStar will be going all out to get it done against Fremantle City at the weekend.
Above: Charli Wainwright, scorer of Murdoch University Melville’s final goal in their 5-1 win at Curtin University on Tuesday night. Photo: South Coast Baptist College.
Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) reduced the gap between them and the top four to just two points after a 5-1 win at Curtin University on Tuesday night.
MUM FC went ahead within the opening minute thanks to a goal from Andrea Preiato with Clara Horarau doubling the advantage just after the 20-minute mark. Preiato grabbed her second to ensure that Murdoch University Melville went in at half-time with a three-goal advantage.
Two goals in four minutes in the early stages of the second half killed off any faint hopes that winless Curtin may have had of a famous comeback as Rachel Gillies and then Charli Wainwright extended MUM FC’s lead to 5-0. Danielle Suckling got a goal back for Curtin with 26 minutes remaining, but it was another tough night for the home side.
Murdoch University Melville now has a huge game in the finals race on Friday night at home to Hyundai NTC. There will be a full detailed report of the game in our usual NPL WA Women Wrap.
P
W
D
L
F
A
Pts
GD
Perth RedStar
15
14
1
0
55
6
43
+49
Fremantle City
16
8
4
4
39
23
28
+ 16
Perth SC
15
7
3
5
20
8
24
+12
Hyundai NTC
16
6
5
5
26
30
23
-4
Balcatta Etna
16
7
1
8
20
20
22
=
Murdoch University Melville
16
6
3
7
20
19
21
+1
Subiaco
15
3
3
9
17
46
12
-29
Curtin University
15
0
2
13
15
60
2
-45
This Weekend’s Fixtures: Murdoch University Melville v Hyundai NTC, Perth SC v Curtin University, Perth RedStar v Fremantle City, Subiaco v Balcatta Etna.
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos (27/7/22).
Above: Calder United come away with the ball in their game against Bulleen Lions. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
South Melbourne 2-2 Alamein
Alamein had a tenuous hold on fourth spot when they travelled to Lakeside stadium to play South Melbourne in Round 17.
The visiting side lost to Heidelberg the previous week and needed a response against the inconsistent yet ever dangerous South Melbourne.
The hosts enjoyed a big win in Round 16. They defeated Bayside United 4-2, but the headlines were written by rising star Bella Stringfellow who scored a hattrick for South Melbourne.
The conditions were wet, cold, and miserable at kick-off and the first half was cagey with no real clear chances created by either side. With Katerina Nikpour up front for Alamein and Jenna Lawson roaming the flanks for South Melbourne, any errors at the back could be punished.
The closest either side came to a first-half goal came after Amy Jackson created some space in midfield and shifted the ball wide. The long pass from fullback created an opportunity for Nikpour but Janna Farrow in the South Melbourne goal was off her line to snuff out the chance.
Jackson’s passing range caused problems again in the second half. Ashleigh LeFevre raced down the left wing and played it back to the Melbourne Victory star. Jackson’s cross from deep caused panic in the South Melbourne defence. Farrow eventually held onto the ball after it bounced about chaotically in the box.
Despite being outplayed for much of the second half, South Melbourne took a 56th minute lead.
Georgina Kandilas and Caitlin Pickett chased down a long ball, and harried their way into the penalty box through a series of tackles, flicks, and tackles. The eventual shot came from Pickett, and it slid across the face of goal where Stringfellow was arriving to score her fourth goal in two games.
Above: South Melbourne in possession. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
It was a goal made of effort from Kandilas and Pickett, but Stringfellow showed impressive anticipation and instincts to arrive at the far post and finish well.
The game burst into life for the final half hour as Alamein chased a goal. The equaliser arrived in the 71st minute. Vatcky’s pressure forced an under-hit back pass and Sidney Allen danced past Farrow before finishing into an empty net. After an hour without much goal-mouth action, there had been two in about 10 minutes.
Alamein were gifted a chance to go ahead five minutes later. From a corner kick, Allen headed toward goal at the back post. Lawson was on the goal line but used her hands to block the ball. It was an immediate red card and a penalty kick to Alamein.
Allen scored her second of the night with the spot kick. Alamein had turned the game around in the space of a few minutes. It was 2-1 with time running out.
A player and a goal down, all looked lost for South Melbourne, yet with nothing to lose they persisted. In the final moments of the game, their endeavour was rewarded.
Georgia Kandilas embarked on a run down the right wing, and although she was crowded out by three defenders, she kept the pressure up and forced a hasty clearance.
The ball fell to Karina Tolios on the edge of the box and a perfectly hit left foot strike saw the ball sail over the crowded penalty area and into the top corner. It was a stunning end to a dramatic game of football.
Artwork: South Melbourne FC.
As exciting as it was, the result did not do much for South Melbourne’s ladder position. They leapfrogged Box Hill into sixth but do not look like making fourth position.
The draw might have been disappointing for Alamein, but it was a valuable point. They are only two behind Bulleen Lions and their consistency over the campaign gives them every chance of grabbing third place.
Above: Midfield action from Box Hill United against Bayside United. Photo: Box Hill United.
In the other games, Box Hill United were comfortable 3-0 winners over Bayside United. Sofia Sakalis scored twice in three minutes to give Box Hill a second-half lead. Anais Josefski put some gloss on the performance with a 94th-minute goal.
Heidelberg United kept their grasp on first place with a 3-0 win over FV Emerging. Emily Roach scored a brace and the in-form Danielle Wise added a third late.
Above: Mid-air action as Calder United (green) face Calder United. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
The third game of the weekend was Bulleen Lions against Calder United and a comfortable win for the visitors. Aleksandra Sinclair opened the scoring in the 47th minute before Melissa Taranto converted her penalty kick in the 74th minute to halt Bulleen’s momentum.
Ava Groba scored the third to maintain Calder’s impressive winning record this season. They are in second position but have a game in hand over Heidelberg.
It is exciting at the top of the table in the NPLW Victoria:
Above: The Calder United huddle against Bulleen Lions. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
With no matches last weekend, Impetus’ Blaise Ogutu brings us a team-by-team account of how each of the sides has been progressing over the last month without their international players (27/7/22).
Halfway through the season, the 2022 NWSL is already shaping up for a grandstand finish during the regular season with teams still battling it out for the Shield and play-off positions. But this past weekend there was no league action as teams took a breather before properly kicking off the second half of the season.
While the season has been going on, there has been a number of international tournaments all around us. This means that for the most part of July, teams have had to make do without international players and so we take a look at how they have performed and what to expect for the next phase of the season.
SAN DIEGO WAVE
Within the three games, the top team managed to get a win, a loss, and a draw to maintain top spot. Heading into July without Alex Morgan, the goals have been hard to come by for Casey Stoney’s side. They have also missed the imposing presence of Taylor Kornieck in midfield and Naomi Girma in defence all on duty with the USWNT at the CONCACAF Championship. The loss of Kailen Sheridan to Canada wasn’t felt that much in SoCal as Carly Telford stepped up to fill the gloves and went on to produce one of the best performances last weekend against Racing Louisville. Up front, it was Makenzy Doniak and Kelsey Turnbow who stepped up when the goals were needed and might be worth a shout for Stoney in the remaining games.
PORTLAND THORNS
Sitting pretty in second is Portland Thorns who can easily say the squad depth was more than sufficient during this period. Two draws and one win have them one point behind Wave FC with a game in hand and contrary to the log-leaders, Thorns still had firepower in front of goal. Despite losing forwards Sophia Smith, Christine Sinclair, and Janine Beckie to their international teams, Portland still managed to score eight goals in the three matches in June. An impressive 5-0 win over Gotham last weekend was the highlight of the month with players like Taylor Porter, Olivia Moultrie, and Morgan Weaver putting in amazing displays in front of a home crowd. They also managed to dig deep against a resilient Angel City side and net a 96th-minute equaliser through Yazmeen Ryan. With their regulars seemingly returning next week, Portland will be hoping to close the gap on San Diego and claim their second successive NWSL Shield.
CHICAGO RED STARS
Another one of the most consistent teams in the league, the Red Stars had a mixed bag of results in the three games with a win, loss and draw. Playing without Alyssa Naeher, Mallory Pugh (USA), Bianca St. Georges (Canada), and Chelsie Dawber (Australia U23s), they had no problems dispatching Gotham FC and coming back from two goals down to earn a point against North Carolina Courage. They did however lose 4-1 to Houston Dash at the PNC Stadium in Bayou City. Sarah Griffith and Ella Stevens earned their stripes during the three games with notable performances. Griffith came off the bench in electric fashion against Courage in the second half and got a goal. They also have captain Vanessa DiBernardo’s continued contribution to thank for her performances in midfield. Chris Petrucelli’s side still has a fighting chance for the Shield as they currently sit two points off the top but will need to be more solid defensively and hope the football gods have their back and the top two drop points.
HOUSTON DASH
Above: Houston Dash players celebrate beating the Chicago Red Stars Photo: @HoustonDash/Twitter.
The team from the Lone Star State are in fourth place and luckily snapped a two-game losing streak with an impressive win over Chicago before the break. They were missing Rachel Daly (England), Michelle Alozie (Nigeria), Michaela Abam (Cameroon), and Maria Sanchez (Mexico) who were with their respective national squads. Their absence alongside Canadian trio of Nichelle Prince, Sophie Schmidt, and Allysha Chapman saw the team drop six points in two games before bouncing back in the third game courtesy of an Ebony Salmon hat-trick. Their performance in that game seemingly improved with the inclusion of Sanchez on the flanks. Salmon rightfully took the plaudits from that night but an inspired performance on the left wing by Ryan Gareis especially in the second half was worth noting and she managed to get an assist for the third goal. Houston now need to keep the ship steady and avoid dropping unnecessary points if they are to maintain a play-off spot ahead of the chasing park.
KANSAS CITY CURRENT
Unbeaten in seven games, Kansas City was the only team to register three out of three wins during this period. This was made possible due to stunning displays from goalkeeper Adrianna Franch and not being too affected by the loss of international players. They had Desiree Scott (Canada), and Sydney Schneider (Jamaica) out. Apart from Franch, there have been other notable individuals in the form of Del Fava on the right wing having an incredible breakout, Hailie Mace and Cece Kizer also chipping in with goals of their own to propel the team firmly into play-off territory. The Current are hitting peak form at the right moment and picking up points from teams around them on the table and this will be crucial in the final stretch of the season.
OL REIGN
OL Reign find themselves occupying the last play-off spot having dropped five points from a possible nine. For a defensively sound team, Laura Harvey’s side have struggled to find the back of the net. Missing the likes of Megan Rapinoe, Alanna Cook, and Sofia Huerta, the team still looked good enough to perform on paper. Bethany Balcer still found herself on the end of crosses and new recruit Kim Little returned to the NWSL with the same vigour she left with. In their last game against Kansas City, despite being down early on, they piled the pressure and created chances but couldn’t get past Franch effectively losing their four-game win streak. They do have a stacked squad going into the second half of the season. Tobin Heath made her debut against Kansas City and with that kind of quality, it is hard not to see them sit higher on the table at the end of the season.
ANGEL CITY FC
In a season that has been marred by a minor injury crisis, Angel City still have some fight in them to contend for the play-off spot. They had Vanessa Gilles (Canada) and Allyson Swaby (Jamaica) out on international duty but still managed to grind out a dramatic 2-1 win over fellow Californians San Diego. Their newest recruits, Sydney Leroux and Claire Emslie look to have settled in quickly with the latter providing the winning goal at the Banc of California Stadium. With Christen Press out, Leroux will be tasked with finding the back of the net as much as possible to see them get a play-off spot come the end of the season.
ORLANDO PRIDE
Above: Orlando Pride players after a win. Photo: @ORLPride/Twitter)
Following the departure of Sydney Leroux to the west coast and a 6-0 drubbing at the hands of Portland Thorns, the Orlando Pride’s problems seemed to be mounting. This couldn’t have been any more wrong as the team has managed to get two draws and a win to send them further away from the foot of the table. One element to this improved form has been forward Darian Jenkins whose performances have given head coach Seb Hines a reason to smile. They had only one player out on international duty (Gunny Jonsdottir with Iceland) Kylie Strom has also been putting a shift in defence and attack getting two goals in three games. With Leroux gone for the second half of the season, Jenkins has to carry the load of producing the goods in front of goal but she won’t be alone with the way Erika Tymrak is playing right behind her in midfield.
NY/NJ GOTHAM FC
With one win sandwiched between two losses, Gotham are a mixed bag of fortunes. They have been missing Estelle Johnson, Kristie Mewis, Ifeoma Onumonu, and Midge Purce on international duty and it has reflected on their performances. They have been shaky defensively and goals have dried up compared to last season. They looked toothless in the two losses but a shining moment for them came from newly-acquired Taylor Smith who scored the winner against Racing Louisville. A real challenge awaits Scott Parkinson’s charges and the return of the internationals could breathe some life into the side but the clock is ticking.
RACING LOUISVILLE
They haven’t really gotten going this season and with the individuals like Emily Fox (USA) and Nadia Nadim (Denmark) away for international duty, the team finds themselves in tenth. Winless in the three games played, the team has struggled to keep leads and turn draws into wins. They have Savannah DeMelo to thank for some good performances. Australian Alex Chidiac has also been a positive for the side in the middle of the park and Katie Lund in goal too. They did have an improved game against San Diego last time out and had to credit Lund for her saves during the game. They will be hoping to build on this for the remainder of the season to see what they can salvage.
WASHINGTON SPIRIT
They look a world of difference from last season’s title-winning team. Injuries and a packed schedule haven’t been kind to the squad and with their internationals gone, Spirit had two losses and one draw within the month of July. Even with individuals like Kingsbury, Trinity Rodman, and Ashley Sanchez in the squad, they haven’t looked decent at any point in the season. They drew against Orlando Pride last time out and that wasn’t a good sign as they didn’t have the cutting edge to sneak past Orlando.
The team with the least amount of games played, the sit at the bottom of the pile with only eight points from nine games. Their last match against Angel City had to be postponed due to COVID-19 protocols but the two previous games were not anything to write home about. They have been missing Diana Ordonez (Mexico), Kerolin, and Debinha (Brazil) on international duty. For the second half of the season where most likely they will have a bunch of games to play more than the rest, coach Sean Nahas will have to pull a worldie to move the team further up the table. They will have to avoid conceding too many goals, particularly in the last minute like they did against Chicago Red Stars two weeks ago.
Three A-League Women clubs announced player signings today. Impetus‘ Ben Gilby heard from all the players and head coaches involved (27/7/22).
Norrie Back At Brisbane
Above: Ayesha Norrie back at The Roar. Artwork: Brisbane Roar.
Brisbane Roar is delighted to announce the re-signing of its Liberty A-League captain Ayesha Norrie for the 2022/23 season.
Norrie will officially rejoin the Roar following the completion of the NPL Queensland Women’s season with her current club Lions FC.
A Brisbane local, Norrie captained the team for the first time last season after returning to the club where she made her top-flight debut as a 16-year-old.
She made 13 appearances and chipped in with two goals as her outstanding efforts at the base of midfield culminated in her winning the Player of the Year award.
“I’m excited to be back on board and to get started again with the Roar later this year,” Norrie said.
Above: In action captaining the Roar last season. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
“Brisbane is home for me so it’s always an honour to put on the jersey and represent the city and the state. My first year being captain, it was a learning experience for sure. It helped me grow as a person on and off the field and given me more confidence.
“I hope to continue that next season with the team. We had to start from scratch a bit last year, so it’s good to know we’re bringing a few core players back. We can build on that. We’ll definitely grow again with a bit more experience, a bit more familiarity.”
Norrie linked up with Lions FC in the NPL Women’s competition in April but is currently taking a break from competitive action to rehab a back injury.
Head Coach Garrath McPherson described the captain’s return as a “priority” for the Roar. “Eash is a strong, empathetic leader who sets the standard for both work ethic and care for others,” McPherson said.
“She had a breakout season for Brisbane both as a player and a captain. I am sure the fans are excited to hear that she is returning to lead the club for another campaign.”
Canberra Add NPLW Victoria Star Murray
Artwork: Canberra United.
Canberra United are pleased to announce the signing of versatile defender Holly Murray on a multi-year deal.
Murray is the latest signing by new United Head Coach Njegosh Popovich and inks a deal with the club off the back of a series of superb performances in the Victorian National Premier League with South Melbourne.
The youngster burst onto the local scene as a 12-year-old being named as part of Alamein FC’s inaugural Victorian NPL squad at U15 level and latterly represented the Football Victoria (FV) Emerging squad and was a train-on player at Melbourne Victory.
“I am so excited about signing for Canberra United and playing in the Liberty A-League,” Murray said.
“It has always been a dream of mine to play in this league and to get the opportunity to do so for such a great club is amazing. I am grateful to Njegosh and the club for giving me the chance to show what I can do in this league. I can’t wait to get to Canberra to meet the staff and supporters and get started!”
Above: Holly Murray pictured with NPLW Victoria side Alamein FC.
The highly-rated Murray was recently named in a Herald Sun feature as one of the best young junior prospects in Victoria and it’s that potential, coupled with an innate game-sense that has persuaded Popovich to snap her up for the 2022 and 2023 campaigns.
“Holly is a quality addition to our squad for the new season,” Popovich enthused of his new player.
“She is an excellent defender who reads the game well, is strong in the challenge, and has a good turn of pace, all the hallmarks required of being a top-class defender in the Liberty A-League.
“As a young player, she will fit in well with our group and the culture of the club and I delighted to be able to welcome her to our team.”
Nix Re-Sign Keeper Edwards
Above: Brianna Edwards pictured in training with Wellington Phoenix. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
Brianna Edwards has signed on for a second season with the Wellington Phoenix and is committed to challenging incumbent goalkeeper Lily Alfeld for the starting role.
The New Zealand U-20 keeper has agreed to a new deal with the Phoenix after serving as Alfeld’s backup in the team’s maiden campaign.
“We’re such good training partners,” Edwards said. “I push Lily and she pushes me, and we make sure we get the best out of each other every single session. As much as we’re friends, I think she knows this season I want to push for more and push to be better.
“It’s really exciting to have someone who also wants to see you do well. I think that’s something special that me and Lily have.”
Edwards holds dual citizenship and fills the first of seven Australian berths in the Phoenix squad. She’s looking forward to moving across the Tasman to pursue her football career.
Above: Brianna Edwards offers Wellington Phoenix two great options in goal. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
“I’ve been over to New Zealand a couple of times this year for under-20 camps and I just love it there. It feels like a second home and I think it will feel even more like that when I’m back with the Nix. I can’t wait. I feel like I still have more to offer the Nix and there is still a lot I can get out of it. I love the culture, I love the players and I love being a part of the club.”
The move has the support of her family, particularly her dad, who was born in New Zealand.
“My family has already talked about coming to the Phoenix’s opening game. “I also have a lot of family in the North Island so I think everyone will be keen to get down to Wellington and watch.”
Edwards will also have support in the stands when she represents New Zealand at next month’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica. “My family is coming to Costa Rica to watch and they’ll be kitted out in full New Zealand gear, even my mum, which she’s a bit timid about.”
Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis highlighted Edwards’ qualities as a team player: “We were really comfortable when Lily was away for international duty for Bri to step up and show what she can do,” Lewis said. “We feel like it’s going to be a season for her to really push and challenge Lily and give a little bit more competition.
Above: A safe pair of hands – Brianna Edwards is back at Wellington Phoenix next season. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
“Lily’s a great leader and a very good goalkeeper, but Bri’s been developing and pushing really hard. Ultimately they make each other better and we want Bri to keep pushing Lily.”
The Phoenix are not just looking at dual citizens to fill the Australian berths, with Lewis and assistant Natalie Lawrence travelling across the Tasman to look at potential players.
“We want to give Australian players the opportunity as well. We want to do what’s best for the team and we need to surround them with players that are really going to push them. In this respect Bri is that player and it’s a bonus that she’s a dual citizen. But ultimately we want to find good Aussies that can add value in our environment to really push this team forwards as well.”
Brianna Edwards is the Phoenix’s seventh signing for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League season, joining Alfeld, New Zealand U-20 team-mates Kate Taylor and Alyssa Whinham plus Football Ferns squad members Betsy Hassett, Paige Satchell, and Mackenzie Barry in the Nix squad that will assemble in Wellington in October.
Last night, Fran Kirby produced a sensational performance in England’s 4-0 win over Sweden in the Semi-Finals of Euro 2022. It was just reward for a player who has overcome mental health challenges, injuries, and several bouts of debilitating illness to line up at Wembley on Sunday in one of the biggest games on the planet. Impetus’ Ben Gilby, who watches Kirby play regularly in the WSL at Kingsmeadow, profiles the player that Chelsea fans rightly call ‘Super Fran’ (27/7/22).
Above: The look on the face says it all. Fran Kirby after scoring for the Lionesses last night. Photo: Lionesses.
Fran Kirby is one of the most respected female footballers in the world. She’s played in and scored goals in countless big games for club and country – none more so than last night’s victory over Sweden in the Euros semi-finals. Yet in order to reach that status, she has had to overcome some major hurdles. Hurdles that occasionally re-appear and need to be overcome again.
Back in May last year, I was part of an online discussion with Kirby organised by the Women’s Sports Alliance, where the Chelsea and Lionesses star spoke openly about the challenges she has faced in her life and career. It makes her achievements all the more outstanding. It makes her one of the most inspirational female athletes England has.
“I lost my Mum at the age of 14, Kirby explained, “I didn’t allow myself a grieving space. I went to school the next day. It wasn’t until I was aged 16-18 that I noticed that things weren’t right in me.
“I didn’t understand who I was or what I wanted to be. With my Mum gone, I was growing up in a male-dominated household and we weren’t good at speaking about our emotions. We didn’t mention the word ‘Mum’ for four years after her passing.”
It was incredibly hard for Fran to chart a path forwards to overcome these difficult times. For Fran, the support of a physio at Reading FC was instrumental in her mental state’s improvement.
Above: Fran Kirby in action during her days at Reading. Photo: Get Reading.
“It’s so important to find someone that you can talk to. Quite often it’s someone who doesn’t know you all that well. The physio at Reading was older than me and I’d sit on her sofa and just cry.”
“I could see that (my mental condition) was affecting other people around me. I was becoming a person that I wouldn’t like to be around myself.”
“I stopped playing football for a year after Mum died. I knew that I would get back to football eventually. I needed to find joy in myself. At the age of 13, I had people telling me I would play for England – that was tough to hear and live up to. I had anxiety about coming back, but football was the biggest part of my life. For a long time, I knew how much my Mum wanted me to play football. Now it’s a dream that I want to have. I still have bad days and I just accept that.”
Fran has also had to battle several major injuries and health scares over the course of her career. She outlined how the mental impact of this is not quite the same as the struggles that she faced after her Mother’s passing, but that didn’t make them any easier to overcome.
The period between 2016 and 2017 saw the Berkshire-born player suffered back-to-back injuries which were hampered by slow recovery times due to problems diagnosing the exact nature of the injuries. It led to a period of around 12 months out of the game during which Kirby suffered pain so bad that she struggled to walk due to knee problems and bone edema (deep internal bruising).
bove: Fran in action for Chelsea in the 2016 FA Cup Final against Arsenal. She would soon face a tough injury battle. Photo: Zimbio.
“I went through so many ups and downs (in that period) and I didn’t know how to deal with it. I found in the end that the best thing to do was to be honest with the people around me about how I was feeling. I learned a lot about myself and took a lot of time to work things out.”
The season before last saw Kirby experience another incredibly challenging period after being diagnosed with pericarditis, an inflammation of the fibrous sac that surrounds the heart which left her with sharp chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, and general weakness.
“Mentally it was one of the craziest things that I’ve experienced in my life, Fran said. “It was a trauma. Just thinking about coming back and playing football scared me because of how I was feeling. I just couldn’t think of anything worse than getting back playing.”
“Then I got injured in my first England training camp after recovering from the pericarditis. That was possibly my biggest mental battle.”
Fran feels that it is incredibly positive that more professional sports stars are talking about their mental health battles. “We have to be honest. We’re not robots, we’re human beings. It gives the fans more of a personal relationship with you. If they can see our struggles and we’re getting through it then maybe they see that they can too if they have struggles.”
Above: Fran in action for Chelsea this season – another debilitating illness struck at the start of the year which put her Euros participation in doubt. Photo: Chelsea FCW
The relationship with fans is something that comes with positives and negatives for sports players’ mental health. “When the fans are happy with you, it’s great. When they are not, it’s hard to separate this. I try not to get too caught up in opinions of me. I don’t look at comments about my performance because it can impact you.”
In terms with how mental health is dealt with at Chelsea, Fran is hugely positive. “Emma Hayes has been amazing through everything that I’ve been through. You need to feel reassured and valued. You need to feel what you are doing for your job is important. I was still being told how valued I was and how I was part of the squad.”
Fran went into this summer’s Euros on the back of another major debilitating illness which meant that she didn’t play any football from February until the end of the season. It was touch and go as to whether she would be ready to be considered for selection for Sarina Wiegman’s squad.
The Lionesses’ head coach recognised that Kirby was ready, and the Chelsea star hasn’t looked back, starting every game, and scoring in England’s 5-0 group win over Northern Ireland before last night’s goal at Bramall Lane to seal her country’s 4-0 win over Sweden.
Fran Kirby is going to Wembley on Sunday. She’s been there before a number of times before with both club and country. Yet this time is extra special. A truly inspirational female athlete with an incredible backstory is going all out to lift one of the biggest trophies in women’s football. If anyone can do it, Super Fran can.
Above: Fran Kirby celebrating with England last night. The Lionesses are going all out to ensure there will be more good times on Sunday at Wembley. Photo: Lionesses.
We welcome back DandalBs with his transfer news from the Swedish leagues. The Elitettan is back from a month’s break (the top tier Damallsvenskan doesn’t resume until mid-August) meaning Ben Gilbyrounds up the best of the action from Sweden’s second tier(26/7/22).
Above:Swedish superstar Hedvig Lindahl has returned to the Damallsvenskan and joined Djurgården. Photo: Aftonbladet.
NEWS ROUND-UP – Transfers:
by DandalBs
Legendary Swedish international goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl seems to have decided to aim for a place at the 2023 World Cup after signing a contract with Djurgården until next year. The Stockholm-based club are said to be “happy and proud” by the news and Lindahl is looking forward to play for them. The club have also announced the arrival of Sweden U23 left-back Ebba Hed on a two-and-a-half-year deal. Hed was previously with Madrid CFF.
BK Häcken have completed five deals since the last Swedish Scene column. They started off with the signing of international duo Dóra Zeller from Hungary and Matildas’ defender Aivi Luik. Zeller comes from Bayer Leverkusen and Luik most recently from Italian side Pomigliano. Their arrival has been added to with the arrival of Swiss goalkeeper Livia Peng. Peng, 20, was in the Switzerland squad for the Euros, and is a replacement for Jaqueline Burns, who left recently. Peng comes from Swiss top club FC Zürich. Also coming in is Sweden U19 star Anna Sandberg from KIF Örebro on a four-year contract in a deal that is rumoured to have cost it €50,000. Their most recent arrival is Anna Anvegård who has signed on a free transfer from English Super League side Everton.
Above: BK Häcken unveil Hungarian international midfielder Dóra Zeller (left) and Australian international Aivi Luik (right). Photo: BK Häcken.
Mie Leth Jans, who left Vittsjö and returned to Denmark for personal reasons, has signed for Danish champions HB Köge. Jans had also been an impressive performer for Perth Glory in the 2021/22 A-League Women campaign.
After several weeks of rumours, Karin Lundin has joined Damallsvenskan leaders Rosengård from Serie A side Fiorentina. Lundin scored eight goals in 19 matches for midtable Fiorentina last season and has signed a two-year contract. The defending champions have also brought in 22-year-old German midfielder Gina Chmielinski from Turbine Potsdam. She’s been an important offensive player with the Bundesliga side and has represented all of Germany’s international youth teams. Another addition today was 21-year-old Danish midfielder Olivia Holdt from Fortuna Hjörring on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
Above: Simone Boye – the latest of Hammarby’s impressive signings. Photo: Arsenal WFC.
Hammarby have added to their impressive array of signings by adding Arsenal’s 30-year-old Danish defender Simone Boye to their squad. The Stockholm-based side has recently signed internationals Jonna Andersson, Courtney Nevin, and Kyra Cooney-Cross as part of a hugely exciting team. Boye made 14 appearances for the Gunners last season.
Canadian forward Jenna Hellstrom has left KIF Örebro to join French Pro D1 Arkema side Dijon. Hellstrom was on her fifth Damallsvenskan season.
Strugglers AIK have arranged a deal with Eskilstuna United to sign 22-year-old forward Emma Engström.
Above: Emma Engström unveiled by AIK. Photo: AIK Fotboll Dam.
Kristianstad has signed 25-year-old defender Easther Mayi Kith to strengthen the team before their Champions League qualification campaign. Mayi Kith is a Canadian-born Cameroonian who has spent the last years playing in France, most recently Stade de Reims. They have additionally announced the return of club stalwart Therese Ivarsson after two years maternal leave. Defender Klara Rybrink has departed for Norwegian side Lilleström after only half a season.
Ronja Aronsson, a 24-year-old defender, returns to her Piteå after two years with Linköping and most recently half a season with Serie A side Fiorentina on a one and half year deal.
Above: Ronja Aronsson – back at Piteå. Photo: Piteå IF DFF.
Rumours are abound that Sweden U19 defender Anna Sandberg will join BK Häcken from Örebro for €50,000.
Linköping‘s young Ukrainian midfielder Nadiia Kunina goes on a one-year loan to Austria Wien.
NEWS ROUND-UP – Friendly Matches:
by DandalBs
Above: Anna Anvegård in action on her debut for BK Häcken on Saturday. Photo: BK Häcken.
With the Damallsvenskan returning in just over three weeks time, several friendly matches have been played over the weekend.
First, on Saturday, BKHäcken defeated Norwegian side Lilleström 4-0 thanks to a debut goal from Anna Anvegård with Julia Karlernäs grabbing a brace with the remaining goal from Dilja Yr Zomers.
Elsewhere, Djurgården defeated Elitettan leaders IK Uppsala 2-1 thanks to goals from Louise Hvarfner and Lova Lundin. Djurgården have another friendly planned for 31st July against KIF Örebro. Finally, Kristianstad defeated Danish champions Köge 2-1 with both goals from Canadian international striker Evelyne Viens.
ELITETTAN:
by Ben Gilby
Above: Alingsås FC United continued their promotion charge with a win at bottom-placed Älvsjö AIK FF. Artwork: Elitettan.
After around a month’s break, Sweden’s second-tier league got back underway at the weekend with all teams with games in hand in action. With leaders IK Uppsala not in action, second-placedAlingsås FC United reduced the gap at the top to a single point after a 3-1 win at bottom side Älvsjö AIK FF in front of 96 fans. The home side went ahead just after the half-hour mark thanks to Moa Sjöström, but second-half strikes from Tove Lorén and Olivia Sultan sealed the win for Alingsås.
Above: Joy for Växjö. Artwork:Elitettan.
Växjö are third, another point behind after coming from behind to win 5-1 win at second-bottom Rävåsens IK Karlskoga in front of 115 spectators. Sara Öjebo gave the hosts a shock lead with 13 minutes on the clock. However, a spell of two goals in two minutes turned things around between the 16th and 18th minutes. Scores were level with an own goal before Dessislava Dupuy maintained her hot scoring streak from before the break to put the visitors ahead. Further goals from Elin Nilson and Mimmi Strömgren made it 4-1 before the break. Evelyn Ijeh completed the scoring with 11 minutes remaining.
Above: Lidköpings celebrate their success at the weekend. Artwork: Elitettan.
Lidköpings FK are fourth after a 4-1 win at home to Ifö Bromölla in front of 213 fans. Tilde Ahlén put the hosts ahead just before the quarter-hour mark before Amanda Olsson levelled after 26 minutes. Hanna Boubezari put Lidköpings back ahead on the hour before two further goals in the final two minutes from Ronja Karlsson Törnborg and Dorothea Gruelich completed the scoring.
Above: Sheer joy for Jitex who came from 2-1 down to seal a 3-2 win at Team TG FF five minutes into stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes. Artwork: Elitettan.
Jitex BK remain in the promotion hunt after a dramatic 3-2 win at Team TG FF in a game watched by 112 spectators. Alexandra Sandstrom put the home side ahead with 26 minutes played only for Julia Hellstrom to level in stoppage time at the end of the first half. Elin Abrahamsson restored Team TG FF’s lead, which lasted 12 minutes before Linnea Strömberg tied it up again from the penalty spot. Then, five minutes into stoppage time, Hellstrom sealed a last-gasp winner for Jitex.
Round 13 Results: Sundsvalls 0-2 Mallbackens IF Sunne, Rävåsens IK Karlskoga 1-5 Växjö, Team TG FF 2-3 Jitex BK, Lidköpings FK 4-1 Ifö Bromölla, Älvsjö AIK FF 1-3 Alingsås FC United.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll.
Round 14 Fixtures: Lidköpings FK v Team TG FF, Gamla Uppsala v Växjö, Alingsås FC United v IFK Norrköping, Ifö Bromölla v Bergdalens IK, Älvsjö AIK FF v IK Uppsala, Mallbackens IF Sunne v Rävåsens IK Karlskoga, Jitex BK v Sundsvalls.
It’s fair to say that Wellington Phoenix are having an absolute sensational run of player announcements for 2022/23. It continued overnight with the news that Kate Taylor, vice captain last season at the age of 18, has signed on for another year. We hear from both Kate and Nix boss Gemma Lewis(26/7/22).
Above: In typical combative action, Kate Taylor was one of the standout players in the young Wellington Phoenix side last season. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
Kate Taylor has knocked back offers from rival A-League clubs to sign with the Wellington Phoenix for the 2022/23 season.
The young centre-back was in demand after being one of the breakout stars of the Phoenix’s maiden season, which led to her being called up to the Football Ferns last month.
Taylor was the Nix’s vice-captain in their inaugural campaign, despite only turning 18 last October, and started 13 of the team’s 14 matches. “I wanted to stay if I could and it’s worked out really well,” she said.
“It felt like we were together for a long time and we experienced a lot as a team during the season so I had some loyalty there. And obviously, I know Gemma [Lewis] and Nat [Lawrence] really well and I trust them a lot.”
Above: Calm, composed and with a maturity beyond her years, Kate Taylor is a real prospect. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
The Cantabrian is looking forward to renewing her combination with fellow centre-back Mackenzie Barry and goalkeeper Lily Alfeld, who have also re-signed with Phoenix.
“I can’t wait. We’re all quite close now and we’ve been in and around each other for a while so we know each other quite well and know how we all play. Hopefully that’s going to build during pre-season and when the season gets underway.”
Taylor also can’t wait to play in front of Phoenix fans in Wellington. “I was thinking about it the other day and it just made me smile. That excitement is definitely building, family and friends are keen to come watch and hopefully, we can get as many people as possible coming to our games.”
But her focus for now is on next month’s FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica, with Taylor captain of the New Zealand side.
Above: After finishing their debut 2021/22 season in style, Kate Taylor is hoping for greater success with Wellington Phoenix next season. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
“It’s just an amazing opportunity. With COVID, a lot of us didn’t get to go to an under-17 World Cup so to be leaving in a couple of days again it puts a smile on your face and makes you so excited.
“Our aim is to get out of the group. We don’t aim to just participate and obviously, we saw what the under-17s did last time. Putting on the New Zealand jersey everyone will get up for that and give it their all no matter what, which is what us Kiwis pride ourselves on I think.”
Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis is also in charge of the New Zealand U-20 side and expects Taylor will thrive in Costa Rica.
“She’s going to be in the limelight as the captain of the team and when she comes back and brings those learnings to the Phoenix it’s something we’re looking to maximise,” Lewis said.
Above: Kate Taylor will be a key part of an exciting-looking Phoenix team being assembled for 2022/23. Photo: Wellington Phoenix
Lewis also believes the Nix are the best place for Taylor to be to push for selection in the Football Ferns squad for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“We play out from the back, we let them make decisions under high pressure, they have to solve the problems, they’re busy one-on-one defensively and busy inside the box so there’s not really much more you want as a centre-back.
“Kate gets put under the pump a lot of times and we do it in a really positive way where she gets to learn and grow. She won’t get that at other clubs and I think she knows that. For her there’s an element of loyalty as well as wanting to come back and put a mark on the team this year and push it forward even more.”
Kate Taylor is the Phoenix’s sixth signing for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League season, joining fellow Football Ferns squad members Betsy Hassett, Paige Satchell, Lily Alfeld, and Mackenzie Barry plus rising star Alyssa Whinham in the Nix squad that will assemble in Wellington in October.
Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Naomi Chinnama from inside the Young Matildas U20 World Cup training camp during a media event yesterday (26/7/22).
Above: A relaxed Naomi Chinnama speaking to the media yesterday. Photo: Football Australia.
After earning her first call-up to the Young Matildas earlier this year, Naomi Chinnama has gradually found her feet with the U20 Women’s National Team.
Playing her A-League Women’s football with Melbourne City, Chinnama is emerging as one of the next generation of defenders and believes her recent exposure to international football – and potentially the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup will be an important part of her education.
Above: Naomi Chinnama in training this week ahead of the U20 World Cup. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“This is very new for me,” she said to the media. “My first camp was the first New Zealand series camp [in April] and definitely getting used to that environment had to happen pretty quick.”
“I would say I definitely had to learn how to manage myself, to listen to my body and make sure that I remained disciplined.”
Assisting with the transition from club to international youth football has been a familiar face in her City head coach, Rado Vidošić.
Above: Naomi Chinnama driving forward in training this week. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
The A-League Women’s championship-winning coach is Leah Blayney’s assistant for this FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup campaign and his presence has helped the 18-year-old settle in over the past couple of months.
“It’s great to have a familiar face. It just makes the environment more comfortable. I do think he brings a wealth of knowledge. He has a ton of experience, and he’s definitely a valuable asset to the team.”
“It’s really great working under Leah Blayney. I think she makes us all feel like one big happy team. She knows what she’s doing, and I definitely trust her completely.”
“We go into training feeling like we are nice and prepared. I just really like working under her. Also the rest of the staff have been really good. I know they don’t get enough credit but behind the scenes they’re phenomenal.”
Above: Proud to be a Young Matilda – Naomi Chinnama heads out to training this week. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Chinnana highlighted the challenges that the squad are having to face in the build-up to the tournament. “We had 24 hours of travel and now we need to get used to both the time differences and altitude levels, so we haven’t completely settled in yet, but we’re getting there. The first day or so we were walking around like zombies – sleeping when we were supposed to be awake, awake when we had to be sleeping, yeh, not good!” she laughed.
One positive is that the Melbourne City A-League Women player knows her teammates very well. She has been playing NSW NPLW football over the last few months with eight of the Young Matildas squad at Blacktown Spartans. “That’s kinda funny!” Chinnama laughed, “The coach must be going spare, but we’re all getting on really well here, whether we are from Spartans or elsewhere.”
The Young Matildas will commence their FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup campaign on Thursday 11th August 2022 at 12.00pm (AEST) against host nation Costa Rica.
All of Australia’s matches will be broadcast live, free, and in HD on SBS and SBS On Demand with a full studio broadcast.
Above: The Young Matildas training base ahead of next month’s U20 World Cup. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Above: France show their delight at making the Euro 2022 Semi-Finals. Photo: Euro 2022.
It took until extra time for this end-to-end heavyweight clash between France and the Netherlands to reach its conclusion when Ève Périsset converted her penalty in the 102nd minute to put an end to the Dutch’s title defence.
With Les Blues now turning their attention to a semi-final match against Germany who so often conquer this Championship, winning eight of the 12 Euros. Here are five things we learned from yesterday’s game at the New York Stadium.
French History Makers
Above: Louisa Cadamuro whose agonising miss in a shoot-out against Denmark in the Euro 2013 Quarter-Final set the trend for French defeats in the last eight of major tournaments. Photo: The Athletic.
France have made a habit of spectacularly falling short at the quarter-final stages in international tournaments, in fact, they have headed home in the last five international competitions at this stage.
It started with a penalty shootout defeat to Denmark at Euro 2013. After drawing Les Blues level in the 90 minutes from the spot Louisa Cadamuro missed the opening penalty, allowing the Danes to progress. It was followed up two years later with another heartbreaking defeat on penalties to Wednesday’s opponents, Germany. Along with these quarterfinal losses, it has repeated itself in the Olympics in 2016, Euro 2017, and the 2019 World Cup.
But with two of those exits, being at the hands of a penalty shootout, Périsset’s coolly converted spot-kick was a sweet way to put an end to Les Blues’ quarterfinal curse.
French Profligacy
Above: Kadidiatou Diani – one of a number of French attackers who couldn’t quite turn dominance into goals. Photo: Sven Beyrich/Imago.
Despite both sides being evenly ranked, France dominated the fixture peppering the Dutch backline and creating 33 efforts on goal, and the only penetrative attempt was from 12 yards.
Blue wave after blue wave attacked the Oranje defence, who managed to keep them at bay for the majority of the match. Kadidiatou Diani was the first to be denied by Daphne van Domselaar after a rapid counterattack unleashed Diani through.
Even when they managed to work their way past the Dutch shotstopper, Stefanie van der Gragt’s knee came to rescue Melvine Malard’s shot from hitting the back of the net.
Corinne Diacre’s side were deserved winners and the fact that it went to an added 30 minutes, is a credit to the robust Netherland’s defence and shoddy, wastefulness from France’s attackers.
The Dutch Wall
Above: Sensational goalkeeping from Daphne van Domselaar for the Netherlands against France. Photo: Euro 2022.
One of the reasons France failed to convert their 33 chances into more than one goal was down to van Domselaar.
At the start of the tournament, the 22-year-old was the backup to Sari van Veenendaal, but the first-choice goalkeeper picked up a campaign-ending injury against Sweden, allowing van Domselaar to step in.
And not only did she step in, but she also stepped up in big moments through the quarterfinal match. She made ten saves throughout the 120 minutes, more than her opposite number, Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, had done during the whole competition.
The most impressive save came in the dying moments of normal time, denying Wendy Renard’s header with a finger-tip save. The FC Twente goalkeeper also made two stops in quick succession earlier on in the game, flying across the goal to cover Dominique Janssen’s potential own goal and Charlotte Bilbault’s long shot.
Vivianne Miedema Felt The Blues
Above: Vivianne Miedema who played 120 minutes after missing two games with COVID. Photo: Give Me Sport.
Mark Parsons headed into Saturday’s match with the added bonus of having the country’s top goalscorer available for selection. Miedema missed the last two group stage games after testing positive for COVID-19.
But it was apparent throughout her return that she wasn’t able to be her usual-menacing self. Her underwhelming cameo saw her play 120 minutes and fire one shot off target, as France’s backline had a much quieter evening compared to the Oranje’s four.
Playing 120 minutes without having to overcome the hangover of coronavirus is difficult enough; even for one of the world’s best players, it was a step too far.
Facing Familar Foes
Above: Germany and their in-form scorer Alexandra Popp await in Wednesday’s semi-final for France. Photo: Euro 2022.
And after all, France managed to tame Arsenal’s superstar, penetrate the Oranje defence and break the quarter-final hoodoo, they will now need to do it all over again against Germany.
The Germans beat a difficult Austria side 2-0 and having an extra two days rest compared to France, they head into it with the advantage.
But it will be down to France to become the first team in this competition to score past Germany and knock out the most successful nation in this competition, in what will be a tasty battle between two old rivals.
It was a big weekend for women’s football in Western Australia and Impetus’ Ben Gilby reviews both the Hyundai Women’s State Cup Final and a historic outcome for Subiaco, who handed a debut to Matildas legend Lisa De Vanna in the weekend’s only NPLW WA match (25/7/22).
Perth SC 1-2 Perth RedStar
Above: Perth RedStar celebrate with the trophy after the match. Photo: Fotoenzo.
Perth RedStar once again showed their ability to take opportunities when they arise to keep their incredible unbeaten run going this season by seeing off a dogged Perth SC in the Hyundai Women’s State Cup Final at Inglewood Stadium yesterday.
In what was a tightly contested game in front of an excellent crowd, it was goals from Larissa Walsh and Jay Coleman either side of Jaime Duncanson’s strike just before the break for The Azzurri, that sealed the victory.
RedStar’s path to the final was been typically ruthless, as State League opponents UWA Nedlands (4-0) and Armadale (12-0) were seen off in their first two rounds before Curtin University were dispatched 4-0 in the semi-final.
Perth SC defeated three fellow NPLW sides en route to their first-ever State Cup Final. They began with a 12-1 thrashing of Subiaco in the first round before Fremantle City were seen off to the tune of 4-0 in the last eight. This then set up what turned into a dramatic semi-final win against Balcatta Etna. That latter game saw a late penalty leveller from Abbey Meakins break Balcatta hearts before an incredible penalty shoot-out decider, which included an excellent spot kick from Azzurri goalkeeper Rebecca Bennett in her team’s eventual win.
It was a harum-scarum start to the final with Perth SC looking aggressive offensively from the off, but RedStar weathered the early storm successfully and began to assert themselves in a half where disciplined defending by both sides reduced the amount of space available in which to mount dangerous attacks.
Above: Shivani Battaglia, Perth RedStar goalkeeper, had a strong afternoon. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
On the occasions that they were called into action, both goalkeepers were in excellent form. Rebecca Bennett advanced quickly to gather the ball at the second attempt as Sarah Carroll advanced menacingly on goal. Her opposite number, Shivani Battaglia in the RedStar goal was constantly impressive amidst heavy traffic from high balls played into the mix from set-pieces.
One of the big successes for Perth SC this season has been their dangerous wide players using pace and quality footwork to run, cut inside and supply. However, for the vast majority of the opening 45, The Azzurri were forced to play most of their attacks through the highly congested central channel, robbing possession to the likes of top scorer Jaime Duncanson, one of the NPLW’s most eye-catching threats along the flanks.
Ruthless ability to turn territory into a scoreboard advantage has been one of Perth RedStar’s real qualities all campaign long, and as Carlos Vega Mena’s team remained on top of possession, they made it pay.
Winning a throw on the right-hand side from Nadia Harvey, the ball was recycled to Carla Bennett who played in a high cross towards Jay Coleman at the back post. The former Fulham player gathered possession, looked up, and saw leading scorer Larissa Walsh in space parallel to the penalty spot. Showing her skill, Walsh received the pass and swung a first-time shot which looped into the net. The most deadly player in the NPLW was on target yet again.
Yet, Perth SC responded brilliantly and fashioned an equaliser just four minutes later. RedStar’s Tessa De Leo played a pass back towards her goalkeeper which lacked the necessary pace and Battaglia’s attempted clearance was charged down with the ball falling to Duncanson to slot home the leveller with five minutes of the half remaining.
Above: Perth SC celebrate Jaime Duncanson’s equaliser. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri were energised and began imposing their pressing, passing game on RedStar with real intent and conjured up the half’s final opportunity when Duncanson fed Faye Phillips who shot just over the top.
Perth SC began the second period as they ended the first, and looked much more like their usual selves in terms of establishing both their passing and wide games. Within two minutes of the re-start, Leana Cook hit a cross-shot from the right which rebounded off of the angle of post and bar.
Peter Rakic looked to build on his team’s strong start to half by introducing Stella Zampogna. The youngster has been in superb form for Perth SC’s U21 side, scoring 18 goals in 15 games this season. She was joined shortly afterwards by another attacking young gun, Ella Lincoln.
Above: Ella Lincoln involved in the action after coming on as a second-half substitute. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri‘s inability to find a second goal during this period came back to haunt them as, once more RedStar saw out the danger and went on the front foot.
With 25 minutes remaining, Carla Bennett advanced through the midfield and threaded a delightful probing pass which dissected the Perth SC defence to find Sarah Carroll. The Perth Glory A-League Women player ran through unseen to shoot low into the left-hand corner of the net, but the assistant referee’s flag was raised for offside.
After a period of arm-wrestle football, RedStar came again with Sarah Carroll winning a corner as her cross came off of Alyssa van Heurck. Carla Bennett played it in high, Rebecca Bennett was unable to gather and Jay Coleman could not miss from close range to restore RedStar’s lead.
Above: Jay Coleman (centre) celebrates her winner with Larissa Walsh (left) and Carla Bennett (6). Photo: Fotoenzo.
Perth SC worked hard in the final stages and came exceptionally close with two minutes remaining. Zoee Spadano, shortly to be leaving WA to play Serie A Futsal in Italy, played in Lincoln who showed great footwork on the edge of the box before going down. Play continued and the ball rolled out to Meakins to hit an absolute rocket which Battaglia pushed over magnificently.
That was The Azzurri‘s final chance as Perth RedStar ran out winners to lift their second piece of silverware so far this season. They could clinch a third when the two sides meet again in the NPLW in midweek as they need just three points to win the title with seven games remaining.
For the second time this season, Perth SC have gone toe-to-toe with Perth RedStar and shown that the potential is there at the Dorrien Gardens club to lower RedStar colours. Yet to do that, you need to take a leaf out of Carlos Vega Mena’s team’s book – be ruthless and take chances when they come. If not, RedStar will always find a way to win. They are a superb team.
Above: Lisa De Vanna in action for Subiaco yesterday against Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography.
Sunday also saw the rescheduled game from Round Three played at Rosalie Park as Subiaco hosted Balcatta Etna.
Subiaco fielded Western Australian and Matildas legend Lisa De Vanna. It was another superb signing for the club who have also added another local-born international Ella Mastrantonio and Perth Glory hundred gamer Marianna Tabain in recent weeks.
It was a quite sensational match with goals galore, a hat-trick, three penalties, and a historic outcome. Subiaco took the lead just before the half-hour mark as Keziah Burgiss escaped along the right and played a ball in which was turned back to Tabain to fire home from the edge of the box.
However, within nine minutes, Balcatta hit back as Monique Godding comfortably rolled home a spot kick.
Above: Fremantle born Matilda Ella Mastrantonio (left) in possession for Subiaco against Balcatta Etna yesterday. Photo: JASP Photography.
With a quarter of an hour of the second period gone, Subi re-established their lead. Mastrantonio lifted it into the box for Tabain to play a pass back to Ingrid Gomez Basallo to take a touch and dispatch the ball into the net. However, it would be a lead that lasted just seven minutes.
Balcatta once more replied quickly with two goals in as many minutes from Monique Prinsloo. The first came when she fired high into the net from the edge of the box after the visitors dispossessed Subiaco in trying to play out from the back. Her second was reward for an intelligent run in front of Subi goalkeeper Marissa Pidgeon to turn home Godding’s low ball in from the right.
Above: Monique Prinsloo shows her delight at scoring two goals in as many minutes for Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography.
If that run of rapid goals was not dramatic enough, it was nothing compared to the final five minutes. Two goals from the penalty spot – the second as the clock ticked onto 90 minutes from Tabain sealed victory for Subiaco.
Yet this was not just any victory – it was one of historic proportions for the club. This 4-3 win ensured that, with six matches to go, Subiaco have won the most number of games (three) in their NPLW history and gained more points than ever before (12).
It’s a fantastic achievement for a club who have had it tough since coming into the top tier of Western Australian women’s football three years ago – but they are full of character and no little ability down Subi way. The addition of De Vanna, Tabain, and Mastrantonio brings top-level experience to a young side who are reaping the rewards of hard work.
P
W
D
L
F
A
Pts
GD
Perth RedStar
14
14
0
0
55
6
42
+49
Fremantle City
16
8
4
4
39
23
28
+ 16
Perth SC
14
7
2
5
20
8
23
+12
Hyundai NTC
16
6
5
5
26
30
23
-4
Balcatta Etna
16
7
1
8
20
20
22
=
Murdoch University Melville
15
5
3
7
15
18
18
-3
Subiaco
15
3
3
9
17
46
12
-29
Curtin University
14
0
2
12
14
55
2
-41
Round 17 Fixtures (Next Weekend): Murdoch University Melville v Hyundai NTC, Perth SC v Curtin University, Perth RedStar v Fremantle City, Subiaco v Balcatta Etna.
impetusfootball.org 