Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United Annouce Pride Cup

Artwork supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United.

26/8/22

Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United will set aside their rivalry, coming together to celebrate LGBTI+ inclusion in football, as they compete for the A-Leagues Pride Cup at AAMI Park on Sunday 26th February 2023.

This historic community partnership with Pride Cup Australia will see Victory host a spectacular double-header event at AAMI Park, with the Men going head-to-head at 3pm while the Women face-off at 6pm.

Pride Cup Australia represents a national movement changing sporting culture and uniting communities through education and events. Working with all levels of sport, Pride Cup is helping clubs to create environments where every LGBTI+ person feels included, accepted, and proud to be who they are.

Since 2018, Pride Cup has worked with over 450 clubs in more than 15 sporting codes across Australia.

Pride Cup began working with Adelaide United in October 2021, following Josh Cavallo’s brave decision to come out as, at the time, the only openly-gay, active professional male football player in the world.

Together, the inaugural A-Leagues Pride Cup was born; hosted by Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium and involving Melbourne Victory’s Women’s team in February 2022.

Above: AAMI Park – location for this year’s Pride Cup match between Melbourne Victory’s and Adelaide United’s men’s and women’s teams. Photo: AAMI Park.

Pride Cup Chief Executive Officer, James Lolicato (he/him), said: “We are so thrilled to be partnered with Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United to celebrate LGBTI+ inclusion in football.

“Working with two clubs so enthusiastic and dedicated to creating meaningful change in the culture of sport is very special, and we couldn’t be prouder to deliver this event.

“With 78% of LGBTI+ people not feeling safe as spectators at sporting events, this is a huge opportunity to show LGBTI+ people that football can be a safe and welcoming place for all.

“Through the 2023 Pride Cup, we have a fantastic opportunity to both celebrate the wonderful LGBTI+ players, fans, and officials of the game, deliver important education, and highlight how sport can change hearts and minds.”

Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Caroline Carnegie (she/her), said: “We’re incredibly proud to be hosting the A-Leagues Pride Cup in 2023 after the success of last season’s launch and we’re looking forward to working with Adelaide United and the Pride Cup to make this fixture a mainstay in the A-Leagues calendar.

“Melbourne Victory was established as a Club for everyone and the chance to celebrate LGBTI+ inclusion in football with both our Men’s and Women’s sides on the same day truly reflects this.

“Pride Cup will be a celebration of all that is great about our game and how the football field is a place that only differentiates sides by the colour of their shirts.” 

Adelaide United Chief Executive Officer, Nathan Kosmina (he/him), said: “Following last season’s monumental Pride Game at Coopers Stadium, we’re extremely proud to continue supporting the work of Pride Cup Australia alongside Melbourne Victory.

“This annual fixture will ensure LGBTI+ inclusion is a consistent theme raised amongst A-Leagues supporters and will aid in helping those from the LGBTI+ community feel safe and welcome in football. 

“We saw tremendous support for our Pride Game last season and we’re confident that will only continue to increase for many years to come.

“Our appreciation goes to Pride Cup Australia for assisting us in developing this event and want to thank Melbourne Victory for aligning with our Club for this important cause.”

Western United Unveil Local Legend Whilst Adelaide Reveal New Kit

Impetus’ Ben Gilby brings us the latest news from Australia ahead of the new A-League Women season (26/8/22).

Graphic: Western United.

Victorian football icon Aleksandra Sinclair has signed her first ever Liberty A-League Women contract, joining her local side Western United’s inaugural team for the 2022/23 season.

A Melton local, Sinclair has become a popular figure in NPLW Victoria for her exploits on and off the pitch, and she said she is humbled by the opportunity to represent Western United.

“It feels amazing (to sign for Western United). It’s something I’ve been working hard for many years, so to have the opportunity to play for Western United and my community is amazing,” she said.

“To represent Western United is an honour in itself, but to then represent your community where you’ve grown up and lived your whole life – it’s an opportunity that I’m so grateful for.”

Having worked with her over a number of years at Calder United, Mark Torcaso heaped praise on Sinclair and said bringing her with him to Western United was an easy decision.

“Everyone knows what Aleks is about as a footballer, but more importantly as a person, and that’s why this is so special,” he said.

Above: Aleksandra Sinlair (left) pictured after winning the Premiers Plate with Calder United last weekend in the NPLW Victoria. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

“She has given so much to the game and brings so much joy and passion every time she steps out on the pitch and she has built such a reputation in the game in Victoria.

“Added to that she’s a local talent, born and bred in the West, and has given absolutely everything to get this opportunity. I’m really honoured to give that to her and I’m excited to see what she makes of it.”

Sinclair has captained Calder United throughout much of its success in recent years, winning the NPLW Victoria Players’ Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019.

After bagging 26 goals in 29 games in 2019, Sinclair produced a remarkable best-on-ground performance in the Grand Final as Calder defeated Bulleen Lions at AAMI Park to claim the Championship. 

Earlier this month, Sinclair scored in the NIKE F.C. Cup Final for the second year in a row, helping Calder to win a fifth consecutive title.

Sinclair signs as Western United’s inaugural A-League Women team continues to take shape ahead of the commencement of the season in November.

Adelaide United Reveal New Home Kit

Above: Adelaide United’s Dylan Holmes shows off her team’s new kit. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United.

Adelaide United revealed its new home kit for the 2022/23 season earlier today.

The jersey is inspired by the structural elements of Coopers Stadium’s Western Grandstand and newly redeveloped Eastern Stand. Utilising scarlet red, the 2022/23 jersey incorporates an intricate, layered triangular pattern woven into the jacquard, depicting the cantilever roof space trusses.

Subtle transparent yellow and navy trimming around the sleeves and inside collar, plus the inside of the neckline including the Coopers Stadium’s coordinates completes the design.

Adelaide United’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Marius Zanin, said: “We’re really proud of the overall design and bolder colour choice of the kit by reverting back to a darker shade of red, in this case scarlet sage.

“We know our fans will be proud to represent our Club and the state of South Australia with this kit, but also the others that we will be releasing soon.”

Kite will feature on the front of the Liberty A-League kit for the first time after becoming the new Co-Major Partner of the Women’s team. Fans can now purchase the new 2022/23 home jersey at the Adelaide United Store in Hindmarsh and online via the Adelaide United Online Store. 

Brooke Hendrix: Drawing On Experiences To Push Reading On

Impetus’ Nathan Edwards was invited to Reading‘s media day ahead of the new WSL season. In this the first of three interviews from the event which will be appearing on the site over the coming weeks, he speaks exclusively to the club’s new signing Brooke Hendrix, who had A-League Women success with Melbourne Victory last season, and asked head coach Kelly Chambers about the influence that her new arrival will have on her team (25/8/22).

Above: A Royal looking for many more Victories – Brooke Hendrix. Photo: Reading FC.

Brooke Hendrix is ready to have “the biggest impact” at Reading after finally signing a two-year deal for The Royals from Melbourne Victory.

Hendrix, born in Sharpsburg, Georgia in the USA, arrived in Berkshire off the back of a Grand Final victory against Sydney FC, but the defender was close to joining Kelly Chambers’ side earlier in her career, before her eventual transfer to Melbourne.

Hendrix said, “I have actually tried to be a part of Reading for a while now, even before my move to Australia. You know how football goes, a lot of it is about timing and I finally got the chance to come over in this window.

“The manager is just looking for me to be my usual, big, old-school centre-back self that will put my body on the line to help the team win.”

The 29-year-old has had a well-travelled career, playing in three different continents and already experiencing the Barclays Women Super League before with West Ham United.

From her travels and success, the American is looking to install a winning mentality within her new team.

Above: Brooke Hendrix (right) in action for Melbourne Victory at Adelaide United in the A-League Women lasgt season. Photo: Noe Lamas/SPP

“Kelly (Chambers) definitely brought me in for my experiences, and just having played in different football cultures and the things I have learned in each place has been really amazing to bring to this team.

“I think I will be useful in this young team, sharing my experiences and what I have learnt, with various formations, different teams and playing in the Champions League,” Hendrix said.

It has been three years since Hendrix’s last appearance in England, which was in the FA Cup final as The Hammers lost 3-0 to Manchester City.

But despite only a short period away from the WSL, the women’s game in England has evolved massively.

The American said “It has only been a couple of years since I left, but the growth has been amazing.

“Teams are bringing in top-notch players from all over the world, and England are really investing in the women’s game.

Above: Brooke Hendrix pictured during her previous spell in the WSL with West Ham United. Photo: Wikipedia.

“I also think with the Euros victory, it is carrying over into the league in terms of the resources, money, and attention that is going into it and if it wasn’t the best league in the world, it definitely is now and I have played everywhere so I can say that.”

And, along with five other new signings, the former Melbourne Victory defender, Kelly Chambers feels like her squad is ready for Liverpool at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

The Reading manager said, “I wanted players who have had experience in this league, Brooke (Hendrix) is one of them, Diane Caldwell is another player that shows great leadership qualities.

“I need leaders in this group that will keep driving those that need to be driven and making sure our standards are high at training, and that we are pushing each other every day, but all for the best for the team.

“Hopefully it will reflect on the pitch that we have brought those players in and had a challenging environment that will help the people who were already here.

“I think we have added to a really good foundation, and we are done in the transfer window, so we are excited for the season to start.”

NWSL Weekly Wrap Round 15

Impetus’ Blaise Ogutu brings us his detailed weekly round-up of all the action from the NWSL (25/8/22).

Above: Houston Dash’s Ebony Salmon takes on Mandy Freeman and McCall Zerboni of the NJ/NY Gotham FC. Photo: @HoustonDash/Twitter.

Scordonez Brace And An All-Timer Celebration: NWSL Round 15

This week, nine teams were in action in the NWSL with the Portland Thorns, OL Reign, and Racing Louisville all engaged in other club tournaments. Both Houston Dash and Gotham FC played twice with the first game coming up on Wednesday.

Houston Dash compounded more pressure on Gotham with a slender 2-1 win at the PNC Stadium in Houston.  Chances were few and far between in the first half with both Nichelle Prince and Ifeoma Onumonu both having chances to open the scores for their respective teams.

Things opened up in the second half as Gotham’s Midge Purce was handed a second yellow card and sent for an early shower after encroaching on a free kick in Houston’s half. All three goals would come in the final 20 minutes of the game as Ebony Salmon got her seventh goal in as many games. It is form like this that saw Salmon given a recall to the England national team this week. Teammate Maria Sanchez put her cross into space and Salmon’s well-timed half volley was met by Michelle Betos who pushed it onto the crossbar but not enough to keep it away from crossing the line.

In the 76th minute, Dash’s lead was doubled courtesy of Marisa Viggiano. Gotham’s defence failed to get tight allowing the midfielder to set herself up for the perfect strike veering away from Betos. Gotham pulled one back three minutes later through McCall Zerboni. Jane Campbell had fouled Paige Monaghan through on goal and the resultant free-kick was taken by Kristie Mewis who planted the ball on Zerboni’s head.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough as the Houston Dash broke down Gotham’s improved defensive structure to stretch their unbeaten run to five games.

Above: Lo’eau LaBonta celebrates after her equaliser against Angel City. Photo: @thekccurrent/Twitter

On Friday, Lo’eau LaBonta’s penalty kick in the 82nd minute cancelled out Cari Rocarro’s opener minutes earlier as the Kansas City Current and Angel City played out to a 1-1 draw in front of a record crowd at the Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas.

With Angel City chasing the play-off spots, they were up against it early on when Claire Lavogez missed a chance to put Kansas City ahead in the 16th minute. Jun Endo nearly scored a glorious goal on the other end in the 27th minute. She attempted a cross that became a shot and Adrianna Franch had to be alert to deny the Japanese international.

The home side dominated proceedings in the second half but DiDi Haracic and the Angel City defense remained resolute to deny Kansas. Their first attempt on goal produced the opener. Defender Ali Riley from the left flank floated in a well-weighted ball for Rocarro to nod home over Franch who was off her line.

The hosts looked to respond quickly and did exactly that as Paige Nielsen fouled LaBonta in the box as the forward pinched the ball from behind. LaBonta stepped up to slot her fifth of the season and possibly the best celebration of the season. Neither team could find the winner and had to share points that suited Kansas City more than Angel City.

Gotham was again in action on Saturday night hoping to snap their winless streak against a resurgent Orlando Pride at the Subaru Park in Philadelphia.  This wasn’t to be as again they fell 2-1 to Seb Hines’ side who on the other hand, extended their unbeaten streak to seven games.

Both teams had opportunities to score in the opening 20 minutes with Kerry Abello striking the post for Orlando in the fifth minute. Nicole Baxter on the other end nearly punished Erin McLeod’s mistake but the shot-stopper made amends and denied Gotham to keep things level. Gotham had another chance in the 32nd minute but Taylor Smith skied her right-footed attempt.

The visitors found the opener through Celia Jimenez immediately after the break. Abello again was involved with brilliant dribbling down the left before getting her cross towards Celia at the back post. Her initial header was blocked but a second bite of the cherry is what the Spanish defender needed to put the ball away.

Above: Ally Watt celebrating her debut goal in Orlando vs NJ/NY Gotham FC. Photo: @ORLPride/Twitter.

Pride doubled their lead with 17 minutes remaining when substitute Ally Watt got her first goal in Orlando colours. Dribbling one-v-one against Mandy Freeman, Watt managed to quickly shift her feet and shoot towards the far post way beyond Betos for her debut goal.

Two minutes later, Kristie Mewis pulled one back for Gotham with a header from Nahomi Kawasumi’s cross setting up a nervy finish for both sides. In the end, Seb Hines and his charges would hold on to continue their surge for the play-off.

Meanwhile, at the WakeMed Soccer Complex in Carolina, Diana Ordonez continued her brilliant form with a brace as the North Carolina Courage hit Chicago Red Stars for four. The Mexican rookie opened proceedings ten minutes in with a header. Carson Pickett’s out-swinging corner found Ordonez completely unmarked in the middle to head into the bottom corner.

Brianna Pinto could have doubled the lead with a strike from outside the area but it was kept out by Naeher and the post. Mallory Pugh had a chance to equalise for the visitors with four minutes of the half remaining with a mazy run dribbling past defenders. Her effort however did not match the run as she saw her shot rise high.

In the second half, Chicago had another attempt on goal. This time, Vanessa Dibernardo’s shot struck the crossbar and a scramble in the area failed to materialise into a goal. After the hour mark, it was the home side who doubled their advantage through Fuka Ngano. Her first NWSL goal came about after the Red Stars again failed to clear a set piece and Nagano poked it home within the confusion inside the area.

Sarah Luebbert could have pulled one back after working the ball well in the 70th minute but Casey Murphy stood strong to deny her. Ordonez got her brace with a fantastic finish five minutes later. A well-worked sequence by the Courage, Ordonez was found on the left. With a deft touch, she sat her defender before rifling her shot at the far post beating Alyssa Naeher.

Above: Diana Ordonez and Fuka Nagano celebrating a goal vs Chicago Red Stars. Photo: @TheNCCourage/Twitter.

The final nail on the proverbial coffin came through via substitute Rylee Baisden who started off the move to find Kerolin who cut back bringing Baisden into play to score her first NWSL goal of the season and Carolina’s fourth of the night.

The final game saw San Diego Wave arrest a two-game slide with a 3-1 win over Houston Dash in their final game at the Torero Stadium. Ebony Salmon continued her impressive form in front of goal with a seventh-minute opener. Off a corner, San Diego failed to properly clear and Salmon taking a touch to set herself up, fired one to beat Carly Telford.

The lead would not last for long as Alex Morgan replied in the 13th minute. Capitalising on poor defensive play, Morgan ripped her shot from a difficult angle beating Jane Campbell in between the sticks. Her 50th NWSL goal.

Parity would remain throughout the rest of the half and in the second half, Amirah Ali put the hosts ahead in the 67th minute. Alex Morgan was again involved as she nodded the ball into Ali’s path who bundled in following chaotic defending for Houston.

The away side threatened as they searched fervently for the equaliser. Their best chance in the second half came through Sophie Schmidt in the 88th minute. Her attempt however agonisingly struck the post.

Substitute Sofia Jakobsson put the game to bed in the 90th minute. Latching onto a pass from Makenzy Doniak, the Swedish midfielder found space between her markers before calmly slotting from a tight angle through Jane Campbell’s legs. The win took San Diego level on 28 points with Portland Thorns at the top while the Dash had their unbeaten streak snapped.

Here is how things stand going into the next game week.

Irish National League Round-Up

Post To Post Sport‘s Ciarán Duffy provides us with his weekly round-up of the action in Ireland’s top domestic league as the competition reaches Round 20 (25/8/22).

Above: Peamount United come away with the ball against Athlone Town. Photo: Mick O’Shea/WomensSoccerPhotos.

With Shelbourne in Champions League action during the week, the likes of Wexford Youths and Athlone Town had the chance to close the gap at the top of the table. In the UEFA Women’s Champions League, Shelbourne went to Slovenia for their round one games. They beat hosts Pomurje 0-1 in the semi-finals before being beaten by Icelandic champions Valur 3-0 in the final.

Back home there were just four games over the weekend in the Women’s National League. Those games saw a total of eighteen goals between them.

Peas Take The Win In Televised Game

Above: Peamount United celebrate during their win over Athlone Town. Photo: Mick O’Shea/WomensSoccerPhotos

Live on TG4 (Ireland’s Irish language terrestrial television station), the surprise package of the season, Athlone Town played host to the early season league leaders. The television coverage of the league on TG4 has been excellent over the past two seasons, but Peas would be forgiven for being camera shy given their last televised game saw them throw away a two-goal lead that ultimately cost them the title on the last day of last season.

The away side would have better luck this time around with goals from Karren Duggan and Chloe Moloney either side of the break. Duggan received the ball from Erin McLaughlin and drove home a powerful shot ahead of halftime. In the 53rd minute Moloney headed the ball off the woodwork but made no mistake with the rebound.

Both sides had chances late in the game, but Peamount were able to keep the Midlands side at bay. It was an even and enthralling contest with Peamount showing they have another gear to get three points. Athlone Town 0-2 Peamount United

Wexford Show Class Against Waves

Above: DLR Waves on the ball against Wexford Youths. Photo: Andy Fitz/The WNL Show.

The three-goal winning margin didn’t reflect the competitive nature of the match, but at Ferrycarrig Park on Saturday, Wexford were ruthless late on to move within two points of leaders Shelbourne.

Youths had that little bit extra on the day. Young striker Jess Lawler made her first start at centre forward, but it was a more familiar young name in Ellen Molloy who made the game her own early on.

Molloy found herself in plenty of space and fired a low shot into the Waves net. The second half saw an excellent finish by Sarah McKevitt as the winger superbly curled a shot passed Maeve Willimas to get Waves back into the game. Wexford pushed on and their two star performers Kylie Murphy and Ciara Rossiter helped secure the win. Both were excellent in the game with Ciara Rossiter getting two goals.

Wexford play Shels on the last game of the season and will know if they win their remaining seven fixtures they will be champions. Wexford Youths 4-1 DLR Waves

Galway Fire Home Six In Limerick

The scoring started early for the Tribeswomen and didn’t stop. It took Lynsey McKey under a minute to get the first goal when she got on the end of an excellent ball from Chloe Singleton. Kate Thompson got the second with a shot from long range. At the start of the second half Singleton would get one herself before Saoirse Healey added a fourth. Late goals from Rola Olusola and Jenna Slattery made for a comfortable evening for Galway. Treaty United 0-6 Galway

Cork Secure Fourth Win Of The Season

Above: Sligo Rovers play the ball through against Cork City. Photo: Sligo Rovers Women.

It was a dramatic game at Turner’s Cross. Cork started the brighter and got their reward with a goal from Laura Shine. Sligo would hit back immediately when Paula McGrory scored a long-range effort.

The two sides continued to cancel each other out with McGrory putting Sligo ahead before Becky Cassin equalized minutes later. Eva Mangan provided the late winner as Cork got the win, which is something they have found hard to come by this year. Cork City 3-2 Sligo Rovers

Due to Shelbourne’s Champions League commitments, their game against Bohemians was rearranged and took place on July 27th. It finished 0-0 at Tolka Park.

Table

PosTeamPldPts
1Shelbourne2045
2Wexford Youths2043
3Athlone Town2039
4Peamount United2037
5Galway2033
6DLR Waves2027
7Bohemians2027
8Sligo Rovers2019
9Cork City2012
10Treaty United201

Wexford Youths cut Shelbourne’s lead at the top to two points as we enter head into the run-in. Athlone Town remain in the title hunt but their loss to Peamount United sees Peas regain some hope of a title challenge. Galway strengthen their grip on a top-half finish with their win combined with DLR Waves losing. Bohemians are still in the mix for fifth place, while Sligo will be looking over their shoulders at Cork City. Treaty United remain a distant last place.

Fixtures – August 27th

DLR Waves vs Cork City

UCD Bowl, 16:00

Peamount United vs Treaty United

PRL Park, 17:00

Bohemians vs Wexford Youths

Dalymount Park, 18:00

Athlone Town vs Sligo Rovers

Athlone Town Stadium, 19:00

Galway vs Shelbourne

Eamonn Deacy Park, 19:35

Follow @PostToPostSport on Twitter and Instagram for coverage of the WNL. Our website is currently being renovated, but you can contribute to our fundraiser for Ireland’s National Autism Charity here.

Grainger Announces Welsh Squad For Final World Cup Qualifiers

25/8/22

Above: Wales head coach Gemma Grainger, who today announced her squad that she hopes will take her team towards a World Cup spot. Image: FAW.

Gemma Grainger has announced a 26-player squad for her side’s key 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Slovenia.

Four points in the two matches will guarantee Cymru’s place in the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time, and the head coach will head into the international window with a near full-strength side. Jess Fishlock and Charlie Estcourt return to the squad after being rested for June’s friendly match against New Zealand, while Esther Morgan and Hannah Cain are absentees as they continue their recovery from long-term injuries.

Above: Cardiff City Stadium/Stadiwm Dinas Caerdydd – where Wales will play in front of the biggest ever crowd to watch the women’s national team in the Principality when they host Slovenia. Photo: Cardiff City FC.

Cymru will first travel to Greece on Friday 2nd September (KO 18:00), before a final qualifier match against Slovenia on Tuesday 6th September at the Cardiff City Stadium (KO 19:45). The match in Cardiff is already a record breaker with more than 8,500 tickets sold, beating the current attendance for a Cymru Women’s home international match (5,455). Grainger and her side are hoping to welcome more than 10,000 to the ground as the noise of The Red Wall will play a key role in getting the side through to the play-offs.

Tickets for the match against Slovenia start at only £2 (group bookings) and £4 (individual bookings) for kids, available at faw.cymru/tickets

CYMRU SQUAD FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS AGAINST GREECE AND SLOVENIA:

Laura O’SULLIVAN (Cardiff City Ladies), Olivia CLARK (Bristol City), Safia MIDDLETON-PATEL (Manchester United), Rhiannon ROBERTS (Liverpool), Josie GREEN (Leicester City), Hayley LADD (Manchester United), Gemma EVANS (Reading), Rachel ROWE (Reading), Lily WOODHAM (Reading), Sophie INGLE (Chelsea), Anna FILBEY (Crystal Palace), Angharad JAMES (Tottenham Hotspur), Georgia WALTERS (Sheffield United), Charlie ESTCOURT (Unattached), Jess FISHLOCK (OL Reign), Carrie JONES (Leicester City – on loan from Manchester United), Ffion MORGAN (Bristol City), Megan WYNNE (Southampton), Elise HUGHES (Crystal Palace), Kayleigh GREEN (Brighton & Hove Albion), Helen WARD (Watford), Natasha HARDING (Aston Villa), Ceri HOLLAND (Liverpool), Maria FRANCIS-JONES (Sheffield United – dual agreement with Manchester City), Chloe WILLIAMS (Blackburn Rovers – dual agreement with Manchester United), Morgan ROGERS (Watford).

NPL Victoria Women Round 20 Wrap

Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPL Women’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos (24/8/22).

Above: Calder United celebrate after lifting the NPLW Victoria Premiers Plate. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Heidelberg United 3-1 Box Hill United

A second-half surge saw Heidelberg United defeat Box Hill United 3-1 at home. A win meant that Heidelberg gave themselves a chance to be crowned premiers after momentarily returning to the top of the table on Saturday afternoon.

Box Hill’s 10th loss of the season meant that mathematically they can no longer finish in the top four. It was a frustrating afternoon from the visitor’s perspective. Despite keeping the dangerous Bergers scoreless to halftime, they could not prevent them scoring three quick goals. Although they remained competitive throughout the match.

Danielle Wise broke the deadlock in the 47th minute. Keely Lockhart won the ball back in midfield as Box Hill looked to create. The immediate counterattack released Danielle Wise behind the defence and she finished as she has so often this season, calmly and ruthlessly.

Wise has a claim to being Victoria’s NPLW player of the season. Whether playing as a striker or an attacking midfielder she has been almost impossible to contain.

Above: Heidelberg United win the aerial battle against Box Hill United. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.

She has scored in 15 games of the 20 played, and only Calder United’s miserly defence has been able to stop her. Wise would make a  valuable addition to any side in the A-League Women that are looking for goals. Her consistency has been astounding in 2022.

Anais Josefski had Box Hill’s chance to respond. A mishit clearance by Melissa Maizels fell to the feet of the Box Hill attacker. Her long-range shot was well hit but badly directed, and the scrambling Maizels was spared from conceding after the uncharacteristic error.

Wise helped set up Heidelberg’s second of the day just minutes after the first. She won the ball on the right flank and Grace Jale’s resulting cross found Lockhart on the opposite wing.

Lockhart cut inside onto her right foot, and took another few touches to run around the entire backtracking defence. after collecting the ball on one side of the box, she eventually scored from the other with a well-placed finish, following the mazy, deliberate run.

Above: Celebrations for Heidelberg United against Box Hill United. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.

Box Hill continued to attack as they have all season. Josefski won the ball once again on the left wing. She raced into the box and held off a challenge but her shot was smothered by Maizels.

Sofia Sakalis was wide open in the middle, but the pass was not forthcoming. It would have been a tap-in for the in-form attacker if the ball had gotten to her.

Heidelberg sealed the win in the 87th minute. Grace Jale’s burst of pace won a corner that Emily Roach stepped up to take.

The delivery was perfect and the ball landed between the goal line and the penalty spot. Bella Wallhead was unmarked but directed her header perfectly into the net. It was strong technique from one of Perth Glory’s rising stars, but Box Hill might be disappointed with the space she was given. Nevertheless, she took the chance well to make it 3-0 with minutes to play.

Above: Bella Wallhead (centre) celebrates after scoring Heidelberg United’s third goal against Box Hill United. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.

Although the contest was over, the scoring was not. In injury time Josefski finally beat Maizel’s with a well-executed near-post finish.

Melinda Barbieri set up the chance with a terrific piece of skill. The flick with the outside of her boot put Josefski in behind the Heidelberg defence. She sped into the box and at full pace slotted the ball into the net.

It would not effect the result, but it was the goal that Box Hill deserved. A final score of 3-1 might feel harsh on the visitors on the balance of play, but Heidelberg have been consistency efficient in front of goal all season and this game was no exception.

Teams: HEIDELBERG UNITED: Maizels, Diblasi (Bitzios 89’), Galea (Jale 45’), Lockhart, McKenna, Parbery (Tiktikakis 18’), Roach (Mcdonald 88’), Torre, Vlahopoulos, Wallhead, Wise.

Scorers: Wise 47’, Lockhart 50’, Wallhead 87’.

BOX HILL UNITED: Hudson, Mackie, Kos, Van Dooren, Langley, Josefski, Hall (Zikas 75’), Petkaris (Pickett 53’), Barbieri, Sakalis, Mazzeo.

Scorers: Josefski 90′.

Referee: Luke Rigo.

Round 20 Wrap:

Above: Calder United show off the NPLW Victoria Premier Plate after beating South Melbourne on Saturday. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Box Hill United took the field again just days later. They played Calder United in a catchup game from Round 15. The game ended with a 1-0 win to the league leaders after another Emma Robers wonder strike from long range in the 28th minute.

It was Calder United’s second win of the weekend, following a 2-0 win away to South Melbourne on Saturday. The combination of wins sealed top spot for Mark Torcaso’s dominant side, who have only dropped points on four occasions in a remarkable season.

Western United’s newest signing Emma Robers opened the scoring in the 14th minute. Aleksandra Sinclair added the second in the dying seconds of the match.

Alamein comfortably defeated Bayside United 4-0. In a crowd-pleasing display, Kat Smith’s team scored four times inside of 18 minutes to end the contest. Bayside had been level until Amy Jackson scored in the 61st minute. She completed her brace in the 78th with her goals coming either side of strikes from Ashleigh Lefevre and Emma Runnalls.

Graphic: Bulleen Lions.

A freezing cold Monday night was the setting for FV Emerging to continue their latter season resurgence. A 3-0 win over Bulleen Lions was surprising, but Bulleen have had third spot basically secured for a couple of weeks and although two own goals would not please Caitlin Friend, they surely have one eye on finals right now.

With one game left to play, the top three spots on the ladder have been decided. FV Emerging and Alamein have it all to play for in Round 21. Alamein have the much harder task in defeating Calder United, while FV Emerging will be optimistic of holding onto fourth with a win against Bayside United.

Artwork: Graphics by PW.

 

Wiegman: It’s Absolutely A Big Game

Impetus’ Ben Gilby was in the Lionesses’ squad announcement press conference with Sarina Wiegman this morning and listened to the England head coach discuss her thoughts about the selection, the looming clash with Austria, and how she sees the women’s game in the country after the incredible European Championship triumph last month (24/8/22).

Above: England head coach Sarina Wiegman speaking to the media this morning. Photo: Sky Sports.

Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman began the next chapter in the England national team’s story as she selected her first squad since July’s European Championship success.

Over the last week, the Lionesses have had to come to terms with the retirement announcements of both Ellen White and Jill Scott. Also missing from the squad announced today are the trio of Hannah Hampton, Chloe Kelly, and Fran Kirby.

Wiegman is able to welcome back Jordan Nobbs from injury and has also handed a return to the international fold to Ebony Salmon, who has been in a rich vein of scoring form for Houston Dash in the NWSL. Also back is Chelsea’s Lauren James – a first Lionesses call-up since November 2020. Sandy McIver and Katie Zelem are also given recalls.

Above: Chloe Kelly, scorer of the goal that won the Euros for England is out of the Lionesses’ forthcoming World Cup qualifiers with Austria and Luxembourg, Photo: Lionesses.

Speaking about the loss of Kelly, Kirby, and Hampton, the Lionesses head coach said: “They are OK, but Chloe has a small injury with her leg, it is too early for her at present. Fran – it is too early for her, she should be OK. She hasn’t had too much training, so she just needs more time. Hannah has some personal issues that she has to solve, so it is better for her at the moment that she stays with her club.”

Asked about the loss of England legends Scott and White, Wiegman was effusive in her praise for the pair: “Their impact – they have played for the national team so much. It’s disappointing I can’t work with them for longer, but I respect their decision. They are incredible, we are so proud of them and what they have brought to the game. I hope they stay in the game.”

However, the Lionesses head coach emphasised that her team has some excellent leaders to overcome the loss of the retired pair.

Above: Leah Williamson’s impact as captain at the Euros is one example of the strong group of leaders within Sarina Wiegman’s team. Photo: Lionesses.

“Leah (Williamson) grew into the role (of captain) so well. I do think that the dynamics of the team will change a bit, we will absolutely miss those two, but things will stabilise over the next few camps. We already have other leaders in the team.”

Explaining her thoughts behind the re-calls to several of the players brought into the squad, Wiegman said: “It was very unfortunate that Jordan got injured and she worked hard to get back and so we want to see her in our environment, particularly with Fran (Kirby) unavailable.

“Lauren James has played some minutes for Chelsea over the summer and we want to give her a chance and see what she can do with the national team. Ebony, over the last year and a half, has had a spot in the U23s. She has moved to Houston Dash and is a real goalscorer, so I want to see what she can do now. She has done so well.”

Above: Ebony Salmon in action in a previous appearance for England against Northern Ireland. Photo: Lionesses.

Asked by Impetus about the new set of challenges that England face with teams having extra motivation to bring down the European champions, Wiegman outlined why she believes her team are more than capable of dealing with them.

“I have noticed already that all the countries want to beat England. Now as the European Champions, everyone wants to chase you. We just want to perform at the highest level we can and do our job really well, connect as a team. We can beat all the countries, we just need to stick together. I think it’s nice that all the countries want to beat us!

“Winning the Euros was a fairytale. Expectations were high. There are so many things you hope for – that things go well. That the hopes came real was really nice.”

Above: Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman is aware of the threat that Austria pose. Image: FA.

With the first of England’s two forthcoming World Cup qualifiers being against Austria, who had a strong Euros themselves, the England head coach highlighted the stiffness of the challenge that her side will face in Vienna.

“It’s absolutely a big game. I don’t think there will be many changes compared to how they were this summer. They want to chase us, they want to qualify directly for the World Cup against us. We won’t have 90,000 people behind us, but I think we can do the job.

“After the Euros, the players were talking about qualifying for the World Cup and wanting to do well there too. Every game we are hungry to win and do well.”

Above: The strength and togetherness in the England team is a key to their present status. Photo: Lionesses.

Looking ahead to the longer term, Wiegman outlined the latest situation in regard to a potential extension to her contract as England head coach: “I have spoken to the FA, I already have a contract for three years, so we don’t have to do that conversation tomorrow. Now it is about the squad and the games. Then we will have a conversation. I am really happy that they are reaching out to me.”

Wiegman reiterated her determination for the legacy of England’s Euros success to filter down from the WSL to the next generation of female footballers.

“What we want is change. Getting a boost to the women’s game in England, Europe, and the world. We want to change society a bit. The games are sold out, the knock-on impact on the Super League is important. We collaborate well. The players are so fit, and that is not because of 11 FIFA windows, that is the work of the clubs.”

She was delighted with the recent announcement that £92,000,000 will go into funding new sporting facilities, pinpointing the importance of this development.

“The chances for little girls need to be better. The players have asked for that too. It’s good that a plan is in place to encourage little girls to play. It’s important for society and inclusion. They need to be encouraged and given facilities.”

Sarina Wiegman, England head coach.

ENGLAND SQUAD FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS AGAINST AUSTRIA AND LUXEMBOURG:

Goalkeepers: Mary Earps, Sandy McIver, Ellie Roebuck.

Defenders: Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Rachel Daly, Alex Greenwood, Demi Stokes, Leah Williamson, Lotte Wubben-Moy.

Midfielders: Jordan Nobbs, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, Keira Walsh, Katie Zelem.

Forwards: Beth England, Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, Beth Mead, Nikita Parris, Alessia Russo, Ebony Salmon.

Reiten Joins Fox In Extending Blues Deal

by Ben Gilby (24/8/22)

Above: Guro Reiten – a vital member of Chelsea’s success in recent seasons – has extended her contract at Kingsmeadow for a further three years. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Chelsea FC Women.

Chelsea have announced that both Guro Reiten and Jorja Fox have signed new three-year deals at the club.

Norwegian international midfielder Reiten has committed to three more years at the club, signing a contract until summer 2025.

The 28-year-old has been an integral part of Emma Hayes’ team since joining in 2019 from LSK Kvinner and has played a pivotal part in the clubs’ trophy successes having been a back-to-back Champion of England for the past three seasons, also securing two FA Cup trophies and Women’s League cups and the Community Shield during this time.

The influential midfielder made 35 appearances last season with 11 goals added to her tally with her most recent decisive strike securing the Blues the victory against Portland Thorns last weekend.

Above: Guro Reiten hitting the target for Chelsea against Manchester United on the final day of the 2021/22 WSL season. Photo: Ben Gilby for Impetus.

The versatile winger has also featured regularly for Norway since Under-15s level and made her senior debut for her country in 2014, going on to compete in the 2017 UEFA European Championship, 2019 World Cup and most recently featuring in the group stages of the Euro 2022 in England.

Upon signing her extension, Reiten commented: “I’m so happy to be extending my time at Chelsea for three further years. We’ve already achieved so much during my time here at the club and I really can’t wait to see what we can do next.

“A big thank you to all the fans, they have been a huge support throughout, and I look forward to seeing them all this weekend ahead of our new season.”

Chelsea General manager Paul Green added: “We are delighted that Guro has extended her contract with the club. Her goals and assists have been vital to the team’s success in the last few years. 

“We look forward to seeing her continue to improve and develop in the upcoming years here at Chelsea.”

Young Gun Fox Signs On For Another Three Years

Above: Locally produced talent Jorja Fox has extended her deal with Chelsea. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Chelsea FC Women.

Jorja Fox has signed a contract extension with Chelsea which commits her to the club until the summer of 2025, before going on a season-long loan to Women’s Super League side Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Kingston-upon-Thames local joined the Chelsea Academy at the age of eight and progressed through the age groups, making her senior debut for the Blues against Aston Villa during the 2020/21 campaign. Fox then went on to make her first start against the London City Lionesses in a 5-0 victory.

Following the signing of her first professional contract in 2021, the number 29 went on loan to Championship side Charlton Athletic for the second half of the 2021/22 season.

Chelsea Women general manager Paul Green commented on Fox’s extension: “We’re extremely happy to be extending Jorja’s contract for a further two years.

“She has gained a lot of experience with the team over the past season and her loan to Brighton will now help her development further, gaining important WSL match minutes.”

This follows the recent announcement that fellow young Blue Emma Thompson would be heading to Lewes for a season-long loan, as well as Lucy Watson going on loan to Charlton.

Reiten and Fox’s news follows five new signings this summer with Buchanan, Perisset, Rytting Kaneryd, Svitkova and Watson joining the Blues with Bright and Charles both also committing to three more years with the club.