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Norfolk Weekly Wrap

The new season is underway and Impetus‘ Darrell Allen returns with his weekly round-up of all the women’s football action in Norfolk. Each week Darrell will bring us an in-depth report from one game and a detailed wrap of all the other matches (23/8/22).

Above: Last-ditch defending from London Seaward’s Lucy Cockerill and Megan Burrows as Wymondham Town get a shot in. Photo: Touch Tight Media.

Game Of The Week:

Wymondham Town 1-2 London Seaward

London Seaward were victorious on the opening day of the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East season as they came from behind to beat newly promoted Wymondham Town.

Wymondham took lead through a Brook Cheal goal but the visitors were level before halftime thanks to a header from Maise Cannon. A second-half penalty from Katherine Long was enough to take all three points back to North East London.

This Tier Four contest played at the headquarters of Norfolk County FA, the state-of-the-art 3G facility the FDC Harrod Sport Arena, which will be Wymondham’s home for the season in the west of Norwich to comply with the ground grading requirements of the FA Women’s National League.

In the blazing heat it was London Seaward who dominated the initial phases controlling possession as they began to close on the Wymondham goal. Katherine Long tried an audacious lob but it went wide of Yaz Walford in the Wymondham goal.

Walford, who had a busy afternoon was a commanding presence at the back for Wymondham constantly instructing her defence and a great voice which will be needed through the season.

Lauren Kett for Wymondham then found Hannah Waters with a delightful ball which Amber Cantwell then received but couldn’t finish. Cantwell, then had a thunderous shot at Alicia Garwood in the Seawood goal as the former Cambridge United star looked impressive and at home in a Wymondham shirt with her brother, Norwich City men’s star Todd and other family members watching on.

The opener came when Mary Croft was free down the left and put in a great ball which was flicked onto the crossbar by Cantwell but Garwood could only turn it onto the bar and Brooke Cheal was in the right place at the right time to give Wymondham the lead.

**Above:** Maisie Cannon heads London Seaward’s equalising goal at Wymondham Town. **Photo:** Taught Tight Media.

Seaward produced an onslaught in response, earning a series of corners. Walford punched one away spectacularly before another hit the bar. Leah Newcombe was doing an exceptional job dealing with the threats. However, any team could only resist a barrage of this nature for so long and the visitors levelled when Maisie Cannon rose highest to head home Kayleigh Xidhas’ corner.

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first. Sophie Lee forced Walford into a good save with a strike from distance before Long floated a ball across goal.

The game’s winning goal came 18 minutes from time when Seaward substitute Ashleigh Marchant was fouled in the box, Katherine Long stepped up to convert the spot kick.

Wymondham responded positively again to going behind as Cantwell won a free kick which was floated in and cleared away before substitute Sian Douglas had a thunderous shot at Garwood in the Seawood goal.

There were to be no further goals though as the visitors were professional throughout and claimed an important opening day victory on the road.

For London Seaward, this was a case of getting the job done in an awkward fixture on a long trip away to a newly promoted side and they did just that. For Wymondham, there are lots to be learned, but you feel if they play with the same heart and desire, then points will be picked up where required in order to stay in the league.

Teams: WYMONDHAM TOWN: Walford, Osborne, Croft, Kett, Newcombe, Codman, Cheal, Youngs, Cantwell, Catchpole, Waters. Substitutes: Douglas, Shipman, White, Studd, Goodenough.

Scorer: Cheal.

LONDON SEAWARD: Garwood, Xidhas, Lee, Mcnally, Cockerill, Cannon, Davies, Burrows, Long, Malik, Thomas-Arayo. Substitutes: Mackler, Pace, Marchant, Bracelli, Butler.

Scorers: Cannon, Long (pen).

Attendance: 62.

Referee: Elora Hardstaff.

Weekend Wrap:

**Above:** Natasha Snelling celebrates with teammates after getting her second for Norwich City at Cambridge United. **Photo:** Darren Gilham.

The weekend saw Norfolk’s most senior teams conduct their opening league fixtures of the season with Tier Four Norwich City and Wymondham Town both involved in their FA Women’s National League Division One South-East openers, King’s Lynn Town and Wroxham getting their Tier Five Eastern Region Premier Division campaigns underway and Fakenham Town began life in the Tier Six Eastern Region Division One North.

It was Norwich City who were the day’s headline makers in Tier Four as they travelled to Cambridge United and produced a stunning performance to run out 4-1 winners in a game played at United’s men’s home at The Abbey Stadium, to increase publicity after the successful summer of the Lionesses. It worked with an excellent crowd of 648 in the ground.

Francesca Partridge gave the hosts the lead on 18 minutes but after that, it was all about the Canaries.

Natasha Snelling scored her first of the afternoon before the break to see the sides go in level. The second half saw Megan Todd tee up Snelling who slotted home to put Norwich in front before Ellie Smith put the game beyond Cambridge. There was time for a penalty for the visitors as Snelling finished from 12 yards to complete her hat trick and a stunning opening day victory for Shaun Howes and his team.

In the day’s other Tier Four contest involving a Norfolk team, Wymondham Town‘s clash with London Seaward is featured in detail above.

**Above:** Wroxham’s Becky Russell (blue shirt) in action against Royston Town. **Photo:** Wroxham Women.

In Tier Five, it was Wroxham who produced all the headlines with an emphatic 4-1 win at last season’s Eastern Region Premier Division runners-up Royston Town.

Garden Walk is becoming somewhat of a good ground for The Yachtswomen having won 5-3 on their visit in December 2020 and having won 1-0 on their visit in February 2022.

Joe Simpson’s first game in charge was another Garden Walk triumph as they made it a hat trick of success on this ground as after a goalless first half, the Yachtswomen took control in the second half period.

Holly Connell was first on the score sheet before the experienced Paige Shorten doubled the advantage and then Connell made it a brace for herself and three for Wroxham. Royston pulled a goal back through Amy Cooper before Keela Olive was on hand to make 4-1 and a very happy start to the season for Joe Simpson and his team.

**Above:** Luton Town (orange) and King’s Lynn Town line up in front of an excellent crowd at Kenilworth Road. **Photo:** Richard Brown,

It was different fortunes for Norfolk Tier Five rivals King’s Lynn Town who travelled to face Luton Town at Kenilworth Road in front of a crowd of over 500.

After a goalless first half, Luton took the game by the scruff of the neck and scored three goals in the first ten minutes of the second half period thanks to Adi Milton, Jess McKay, and Elly Wade.

Fi Constable added a fourth for Luton but King’s Lynn played their part in the contest as Deva Rawlings and Samara Nche replied with a goal each to make Luton think.

However, Jess McKay put any lingering Luton worries to bed with the home side’s fifth and final goal of the game.

**Above:** New Haverhill Rovers signing Rebekah Finch, who was on the scoresheet at Fakenham Town. **Photo:** Haverhill Rovers.

In the last match this week, Fakenham Town were beaten 5-1 at home by Haverhill Rovers on their debut in Tier Six. Fakenham, who should be applauded for taking the step up of leagues welcomed the Suffolk side to Clipbush Park in the sunshine.

It was Haverhill who quickly got down to business though as Laura Mills opened the scoring. Fakenham were quick to reply thanks to a goal from Vicki Lubbock.

However, it was Haverhill’s afternoon as they regained the lead thanks to Georgia England and then Laura Mills completed her brace. The second half saw Rebekah Finch add a fourth and Jordanne Sillitoe completed the scoring from the spot to make it a commanding win for the visitors.

NPL WA Women Round 20 Wrap

Ben Gilby provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Western Australia NPL Women’s competition. As always there is an in-depth report from one game and a full wrap of all the other matches along with action shots from the games (23/8/22).

Above: Perth RedStar pictured with the NPLW WA championship trophy that they lifted on Sunday as they played their final home game of the regular season. Photo: Fotoenzo via Football West.

Perth SC 1-0 Subiaco

Perth SC controlled the vast majority of their encounter with hard-working Subiaco on Sunday afternoon, but needed a classy goal from Abbey Meakins with just over fifteen minutes to go in order to claim the points

The Azzurri‘s victory in a match that was switched from their Dorrien Gardens home to Balcatta’s Grindleford Reserve, guarantees them second spot in the final NPLW WA table going into the Top Four Cup barring a freakish set of results in next weekend’s final round of the regular season.

Perth SC were dominant from the start, looking comfortable in possession and out to impose their game on Subiaco at their own pace. They patiently probed, looking for the right moment to play through a killer pass. Yet it was a feature of the opening half that the final pass never quite materialised in the way that they would have liked.

**Above:** Abbey Meakins in possession for Perth SC against Subiaco on Sunday. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

Faye Phillips was the pick of the Azzurri crop in the first half, getting lots of possession on the right and looking to play in team-mates both on the inside and with crosses.

For all Perth’s possession, Subiaco, without Lisa De Vanna, were comfortable in defence and goalkeeper Zara Board had little to do. The Azzurri earned several three kicks in potentially dangerous positions but on each occasion, the visitors cleared without any problems.

As the half wore on, Subi began to earn more of the ball. Ingrid Gomez Basallo won possession along the left and got away, but none of her teammates made it into the box in time for the cross.

**Above:** Subiaco goalkeeper Zara Board had relatively little to do in the first half for all Perth SC’s dominance. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

Perth may have had the possession, but a lack of creating a clear-cut chance almost came back to haunt them with eight minutes before the break. Frankie Murray got away along the right and played a ball in towards Marianna Tabain at the back post who had three bites at the cherry, but was repelled by Rebecca Bennett in the Perth goal and her defenders.

Subiaco were given time to play out from the back at their own pace and were rarely harried when they had the ball. Perth would need to tighten up in the second half and take their chances because the warning signs were there if they did not.

Whilst the opening to the second period was somewhat cagey, it exploded into life 10 minutes in when The Azzurri‘s Ella Lincoln let fly from outside the box and saw her shot cannon back off of the bar. It set the tone for another prolonged period of Perth control.

**Above:** Ella Lincoln – Perth SC’s young star in possession against Subiaco on Sunday. **Photo** **supplied by *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

The introduction of Jessica Flannery from the bench added some pep to the Perth SC attack, and just after the hour mark, they momentarily thought they had gone ahead. Board’s goal-kick went straight to the home side’s Stella Zampogna who ran onto the ball and rolled it home before the assistant referee’s flag intervened.

With Jaime Duncanson also brought on by The Azzurri, the chances continued to come. Flannery, in from the left found Sophia Papalia inside, who in turn played in Duncanson who hit a shot that Board held.

Within three minutes, Perth finally hit the front. Board’s goal kick fell in the zone between her own penalty area and the halfway line. Abbey Meakins pounced on possession, advanced towards the box, and let fly with a superb lifted shot which landed in. It was a classy finish from one of the NPLW WA’s most classy players.

**Above:** Perth SC celebrate Abbey Meakins’ winning goal (second Perth SC player from left). **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

Subiaco were game opponents all afternoon long, further showing the advancements they have made this season, but the visitors were not able to fashion a response to Meakins’ goal.

Perth SC could have added to their tally with six minutes remaining when Duncanson pulled the ball across from the right for Flannery at the back post who hit a shot agonisingly wide.

It was an important three points for The Azzurri who have the squad to do real damage in the Top Four Cup, but they need to ensure that more of the chances they create are converted.

Teams: PERTH SC: Bennett, Harvey, Van Heurck, Zampogna, Phillips, Cook, Meakins, Lincoln, Papalia, Gibbons, Byrne. Substitutes: Spatafore, Duncanson, Flannery.

Scorers: Meakins 73′.

SUBIACO: Board, Winchcombe, Burgis, Ylias, Tabain, Murray, Mastrantonio, Bassett, Gomez Basallo, Gronewald Shield, Shepherd. Substitutes: Paul, Fyneman, Harding, Pidgeon.

Referee: Stephen Knight.

Round 20 Wrap:

**Above:** Grace Johnston (8) hits Hyundai NTC ahead at Curtin University on Friday night. **Image:** NPL.

The penultimate round of regular season action began on Friday night at Edinburgh Oval as Curtin University hosted a Hyundai NTC side who needed to return to winning ways to ensure their Top Four Cup qualification hopes remained realistic.

With Curtin struggling all season, and still looking for their first win of the campaign, the NTC got the all-important early lead. There were just 11 minutes on the clock when, as they like to do, the teenagers played out from the back and a superb weighted pass dissected the Curtin midfield to allow Louise Tana to get away and then play a low cross in from the right. The hosts had two chances to clear, failed, and Grace Johnston dispatched the ball into the net.

Curtin showed character, forcing corners and shots on target. They levelled the scores from the penalty spot eight minutes before the break with Taylor Reid rolling home coolly. The home side came agonisingly close to taking the lead not long after as Dakota Van-Vugt showed great fight in midfield to gain possession. Play eventually found its way out to Keilin Fagan on the right and she crashed in a shot from the edge of the box which hit the bar and bounced down on the wrong side of the line from Curtin’s perspective.

The NTC stepped it up after the break, but it took until the 72nd minute to turn their momentum into a lead on the scoreboard when Tanika Lala rose highest in the centre of the box to head home a lofted corner from the right.

**Above:** Louise Tana volleys home NTC’s third on Friday night. **Image:** NPL.

The points were sealed four minutes later as Violet Longmore’s high ball in from the left was volleyed home at the far post superbly by Louise Tana.

With the NTC facing Fremantle City in their final game of the regular season next Sunday, the youngsters will go into the game knowing what they need to do in order to take that final Top Four Cup spot with their rivals for that place, Murdoch University Melville having played their last match two days previously against Perth SC.

**Above:** Janice Kiama (left), who was involved in three of Fremantle City’s four goals against Balcatta Etna, shows her joy after scoring. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Denyse McCulloch.

Fremantle City completed a week of big victories against rivals for a place in the Top Four Cup as they saw off Balcatta Etna 4-0 in the Sunday afternoon sunshine at Hilton Park – a result that ends Balcatta’s dreams of qualification for the season-ending competition.

Freo won the rescheduled encounter against Murdoch University Melville 3-0 in midweek after the original match was abandoned last weekend after wild weather hit Besteam Stadium. This victory now confirms that the port city side will play in the Top Four Cup.

It took until five minutes before the interval for the first goal to arrive. Janice Kiama was on the left and found Kate Nolan who cut inside Elizabeth Doust and crossed for Jess Darmago to shoot. Balcatta keeper Gabby Dal Busco palmed the shot away across the box for Mikayla Lyons to follow up and score.

**Above:** Fremantle City’s Jess Darmago wheels away after scoring against Balcatta Etna on Sunday. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Denyse McCulloch,

Within three minutes, Freo doubled their advantage with Kiama involved again on the left. This time, she spread play for Perth Glory captain Tash Rigby on the opposite flank. Rigby advanced and continued a move which led to a ball into the box which was squared for Darmago to sweep home.

The home side went 3-0 up 20 minutes from the end. A corner on the right came into the centre of the box for Kiama to head goalwards. Dal Busco repelled the danger initially, but the ball came back to Kiama to head home.

Fremantle City completed the scoring 10 minutes later as Rigby advanced down the right and played in Darmago at the far post to make it 4-0. After a tough run of results, Freo are finding form at the right time of the campaign.

**Above:** Olivia Wood (red shirt left of image) sees her cross-shot curl into the net to give Perth RedStar the lead on Sunday. **Photo:** Fotoenzo via Football West.

In the final game of the weekend, Perth RedStar hosted Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC).

After going down 3-0 at home to Fremantle City in midweek, MUM FC knew that if they could become the first side to defeat RedStar this season, they would be in the driving seat for the remaining Top Four Cup place. However, with RedStar lifting the NPLW WA title on the day, it would take a supreme effort.

The hosts went ahead just over 10 minutes before the break as Jayna Ridley found Carla Bennett along the right. The RedStar legend played in Olivia Wood who curled a sensational cross-shot into the far corner of the net to continue her excellent recent scoring record.

**Above:** Perth RedStar head coach Carlos Vega Mena (left) and captain Shawn Billam (right) with the NPLW WA trophy on Sunday. Photo: Fotoenzo via Football West.

RedStar opened the second half with four further shots on target, but it took until the 76th minute for them to double their lead. Bennett’s free kick out on the left, just in from the by-line came deep into the mix. Murdoch keeper Monique Todd couldn’t make contact and Renee Leota was on hand to score.

The points were wrapped up four minutes from time with an excellent move that saw Emily Dunn play in Shawn Billam who exchanged passes with Larissa Walsh before calmly slotting home.

	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts	GD
Perth RedStar	19	17	2	0	69	9	53	+60
Perth SC	20	11	4	5	42	14	37	+28
Fremantle City	20	10	4	6	47	32	34	+15
Hyundai NTC	20	8	5	7	34	38	29	-4
Murdoch University Melville	20	8	3	9	25	25	27	=
Balcatta Etna	20	8	1	11	26	31	25	-5
Subiaco	20	5	3	12	28	61	18	-33
Curtin University	19	0	2	17	19	80	2	-61

ROUND 21 FIXTURES: Murdoch University Melville v Perth SC, Hyundai NTC v Fremantle City, Balcatta Etna v Perth RedStar, Subiaco v Curtin University.

Matildas To Welcome Sweden To Melbourne

20/8/22

Above: Australia’s Kyra Cooney-Cross (3) and Madelen Janogy tangle when the two sides met in the Olympic Games last year. The Hammarby teammates will be in opposition again in November. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia and Sweden will continue their strong rivalry in November when the Matildas host the reigning Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medallists at Melbourne’s AAMI Park on Saturday, 12th November 2022.

November’s Saturday afternoon blockbuster clash will be the first time the Matildas have played in Melbourne since March 2019 when they beat Argentina 3–0 in a Cup of Nations Tournament, at AAMI Park.

This will also be the first time the two sides have met since a classic Olympic Women’s Football semi-final in Yokohama, Japan. It will also be the first time Blågult will set foot on Australian shores in almost 20 years with the last meeting at the AWSA Australian Cup on 1st February 2008 in Canberra.

The match in November is part of the lead-up preparation for the World Cup where the Australia will utilise six FIFA International windows for the strongest possible preparation for the tournament which commences on 20th July 2023.

**Above:** Melbourne’s iconic AAMI Park which will host the Matildas’ game with Sweden in November. **Photo:** AAMI Park.

Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, said: “When it comes to women’s football, Australia and Sweden have a strong history, connection, and mutual respect. We are delighted to welcome another of the world’s best teams to Australia as the Matildas continue to attract and play high-quality opposition in the lead-up to the World Cup.

“The battles between our two nations over the last 18 months have been close and exciting. With world-class names on both teams, and many of our own Matildas currently playing their club football in Sweden, it is a fitting fixture to mark the Matildas’ return to Melbourne and the iconic AAMI Park.”

A nation with a storied history in the women’s game, Sweden are also current reigning FIFA Women’s World Cup bronze medallists. The world number three ranked nation has recently come off a semi-final appearance at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 in England and qualification for next year’s global showpiece for the ninth time.

Tickets to the encounter will go on pre-sale for Football Account holders on Tuesday 30th August, 2022 with the General Public tickets window opening on Thursday 1st September, 2022 from www.ticketek.com.au. $1 (plus GST) from every ticket sold will be donated to the CommBank ParaMatildas, Australia’s silver medal-winning women’s CP national team for female footballers with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, or symptoms from stroke. Ticketing information is available from the official CommBank Matildas website at www.matildas.com.au.

Football Account holders able to access an exclusive pre-sale window with a 10% discount offer.

Canberra Lock In Brush As Another Key Player Returns

by Ryan Miller-Woods (19/8/22)

Above: Ellie Brush (left) celebrating for Canberra United in her previous spell with the capital city club. Photo: Canberra Times.

Canberra United announced this morning the signing of Ellie Brush who returns to the club for the 2022/23 Liberty A-League season.

Brush is a familiar name for supporters of Canberra United having played over 100+ games for the club and during her first stint at the capital city club was a part of two Championship and two Premiership winning teams.

She last played for Canberra in 2017 before then making the move to New South Wales, where she played for both Western Sydney Wanderers and most recently Sydney FC.

**Above:** Ellie Brush talking to the media today after she was unveiled as Canberra United’s latest signing. **Image:** Canberra United.

“I am extremely excited to be returning to Canberra for the new season and reacquainting myself with the club and its fantastic supporters,” Brush said.

“I have very many happy memories of my time with Canberra United and being part of a wonderful football club in a terrific city. It’s a team that has a special place in my heart and I am thrilled to be back.

“Njegosh (Popovich) is a great coach, we have an excellent coaching and backroom staff that I have had the pleasure of working with previously, and the club are building a strong squad. I can’t wait to get started and get back out on the field in front of some of the best supporters in the league.”

Reflecting on her joy at being back in familiar surroundings, Brush smiled: “It’s like the gang are back together with Michelle (Heyman), Grace Gill, and Sykesey (Ashleigh Sykes) still around the club, yeh, it’s great to be back!”

**Above:** Ellie Brush will be reacquainted with some familiar faces now she is back at Canberra United. **Photo:** Emily Rogic.

Brush is one of the most experienced players to have played in the Liberty A-League. Outside of the competition, she has enjoyed subsequent stints overseas in the USA with Houston Dash and in Norway with Avaldsnes IL as well as winning two international caps for the Matildas which were against Italy in February 2009 in Canberra and New Zealand in June 2012 in Wollongong.

Throughout her career, she has been renowned as a speedy central defender, with both an astute positional sense and an eye for goal where she has found the net a total of twenty times during her time in the competition and will provide a cool head within the ranks at United.

“Ellie brings a wealth of top-level experience and nous to our squad, and I am happy that she has decided to re-join Canberra United for the 2022/23 season,” Head Coach Njegosh Popovich commented.

“She is a very experienced defender that has the ability to find forward passes unlocking defences and is also an aerial threat scoring goals from set pieces.

**Above:** Ellie Brush during her successful time at Sydney FC. **Photo:** Sydney FC.

“She knows and understands the culture at Canberra, being part of the club from the inaugural season, and has captained the club for many years. The supporters are all very familiar with Brushy as she has been an integral part of the team since its formation.

“Ellie also has the winning mentality required to mentor and lead younger players through her own experiences being part of leadership groups, helping us to four trophies in her career. Ellie can impart that knowledge to our youngsters. I am looking forward to working with her again during the year.”

With the signing of Brush, Canberra’s squad is coming together with a significant number of players announced. There is a good mix of both youth and experience which makes Canberra is a team to seriously look out for next season. Njegosh Popovich is putting together an incredibly strong side.

In particular, the permutations in attack catch the eye as Michelle Heyman will join up with Nikki Flannery once more following the latter’s return from a long-term injury. With new signing Grace Jale in the squad as well, this is potentially a potent forward line.

With Heyman scoring 10 in 11 games for Canberra last time round, plus Jale contributing six in 12 appearances at Wellington Phoenix there are going to be fun times ahead for the Greens’ fans.

Impetus welcomes Ryan Miller-Woods as the latest member of our editorial team. You can find out about Ryan and all of our contributors by clicking here: https://impetusfootball.org/about-our-contributors/

NWSL Weekly Wrap Round 14

Impetus’ Blaise Ogutu brings us his detailed weekly round-up of all the action from the NWSL (18/8/22).

Above: Christine Sinclair and Hina Sugita celebrate the equalizer against Washington Spirit. Photo: USA Today Sports.

Nervy Wins, Great Strikes, And A Seven Goal Thriller: NWSL Round 14

The action started last Wednesday night as Morgan Weaver scored a stoppage-time winner as the Portland Thorns rallied from a goal down to beat Washington Spirit 2-1 at Segra Field.

An own goal by Bella Bixby was canceled out by Christine Sinclair in the second half. There were a couple of chances in the opening half for Thorns’ forward Marissa Everett which were snuffed out by Sam Staab and Aubrey Kingsbury at the near post. They could have gone ahead through Yazmeen Ryan from the left-hand side but her shot was easily blocked by Kingsbury. On the other end, Ashley Hatch led a counterattack and cut back to an on-rushing Ashley Sanchez but Bixby was alert to make a point-blank save.

Chances were few for both sides in the second half with questionable finishing. In the 75^th minute, Bailey Feist had a chance and while going down, released a shot that was palmed by Bixby. The resultant corner led to a comical own goal with Bixby failing to claim the first ball. While she grappled with the second one, she stumbled over the line before throwing it back into play straight at Hatch who poked it home to make sure. With seven minutes remaining, Christine Sinclair equalized after she tapped in a rebound from Kelli Hubly’s shot that clipped the crossbar.

The comeback was completed in the 91^st minute when Weaver found space between two defenders and cut to her left before neatly tucking in her shot beyond Kingsbury. Trinity Rodman had a chance to equalize deep in stoppage time but Bixby stood her ground to stop the 20-year-old.

**Above:** Racing Louisville’s Savanah Demelo takes on Ryan Gareis of the Houston Dash. **Photo:** @RacingLouFC/Twitter.

At the PNC Stadium on Friday night, Houston Dash hosted Racing Louisville and played out a drab scoreless draw. It was the sixth time this season that a game ended in a barren draw. The finishing for both teams was suspect for large chunks of the game despite Houston starting strongly and testing Katie Lund through Ebony Salmon. Racing were reduced to 10 two minutes before the end of the first half when Satara Murray tagged Salmon on the edge of the area and received her marching orders for a second bookable offence.

The second half was billed to be a Houston affair but they couldn’t apply the finishing touches to beat Lund in goal and instead pampered her saves record. In the end, a draw would suit both teams on the night that Houston Dash was bidding farewell to long-time star Rachel Daly who is returning to England to play for Aston Villa in the WSL.

On Saturday, Kansas City Current came from behind three times to beat North Carolina Courage 4-3 at the WakeMed Soccer Park in North Carolina. Courage broke the deadlock in the 17^th minute when Diana Ordonez scored her eighth goal of the season. A well-crafted sequence involving Carolina’s frontline with Ordonez being closest to tap in the rebound.

The scores were level three minutes later however through Kristen Hamilton who put away her fifth goal of the season following a scramble in the Courage goalmouth. Brazilian Kerolin had the chance to put the home side ahead midway through the half but her driven shot was kept out by AD Franch in goal. Courage did go ahead in the 36^th minute with a turn-over in midfield for Kansas and in transition, Kerolin found space behind Current defenders before unselfishly laying it off to fellow Brazilian Debinha for a comfortable finish at the back post. Parity was restored courtesy of Lo’eau LaBonta’s rifled shot into the top corner right before the break.

Ten minutes into the second half, Ordonez could have gotten her third brace in a row after being picked out by Carson Pickett but Franch’s frame denied the Mexican rookie. There wasn’t much Franch could do two minutes later as Kaleigh Kurtz’s dominant header flew in off the inside of the crossbar to make it 3-2 on the night.

On the hour mark, Cece Kizer brought Kansas City level again. LaBonta found space to run into before delivering a square pass across the face of the goal with Kizer on the end of it to get her fifth goal in six matches.

Matt Porter’s charges would have the last laugh as substitute Claire Lavogez scored her first of the campaign. Courage defenders failed to close her down and she managed to get her shot off from distance to take Current’s unbeaten streak to ten games.

Again, North Carolina were involved in a high-scoring fixture with nothing to show as time and games run out for them to try and make the postseason play.

**Above:** Lo’eau LaBonta celebrates Kansas City Current goal with Cece Kizer against the North Carolina Courage. **Photo:** @thekccurrent/Twitter.

The other game on Saturday night saw Orlando Pride grind out a 1-0 win over hosts San Diego Wave at the Torero Stadium. San Diego came out of the blocks flying with Alex Morgan hitting the upright with a fierce strike.

The away side was handed a penalty against the run of play as Julie Doyle’s low cross hit Kaleigh Riehl on the arm in the 22^nd minute. Meggie Dougherty-Howard stepped up to the plate for Orlando to put away the spot kick beyond Kailen Sheridan denying her three penalty saves in as many games.

Orlando found themselves again under severe pressure from Casey Stoney’s side when Morgan yet again rattled the woodwork in the 60^th minute. Two chances fell for Taylor Kornieck but she couldn’t turn them into goals.

The first, going with her foot instead of a header, sailed over while the second was a tame header saved comfortably by Erin McLeod in goal. The Canadian shot-stopper was called into action in stoppage time denying substitute Marleen Schimmer’s powerful shot to maintain a clean sheet for Seb Hines’ side.

On Sunday, OL Reign put on a superb attacking display as they comfortably put four past Gotham FC at a sunny Lumen Field. Rose Lavelle opened proceedings with a timed run behind a defender off a throw-in to confidently finish off the move with a left-foot strike in the 15^th minute.

Megan Rapinoe doubled the scoring from the penalty spot five minutes from the half. Winning the ball off Ellie Jean, the Gotham defender got clumsy in the box with the Reign veteran prompting the referee to point towards the spot.

The home side picked up in the second half where they left off and Tobin heath nearly made it three on the hour mark but her close-range effort was saved by Michelle Betos. Rapinoe got her brace nine minutes later with a first-time shot. Taking advantage of another well-executed throw-in, Rapinoe found space on the left and put enough power behind her shot to get it past Betos.

Gotham pulled one back through Taylor Smith. Forcing Reign into sloppy defending, Smith created space for herself, drifting wide before getting off her shot to beat Tullis-Joyce. The consolation wouldn’t last forever as Rapinoe was again on hand to create the OL Reign’s fourth of the game floating in a ball that Mandy Freeman headed into her own net.

This win ensured OL Reign kept their playoff spot as well as making Laura Harvey the record holder for the most NWSL wins with 82.

**Above:** Angel City’s Savannah McCaskill jumps over Chicago Red Stars’ Alyssah Naeher after scoring. **Photo:** AP Photo/Ashley Landis.

Finally, Savannah McCaskill’s second-half goal for Angel City was enough to see off the Chicago Red Stars at the Banc of California Stadium. Chicago registered the first real attempt in the sixth minute when Danielle Colaprico combined well with Samantha Fisher but the latter saw her strike go just wide off the mark.

The home side grew into the game gradually and had their own chance when Ali Riley floated in a perfect ball for Simon Charley in the middle of the penalty area but her header was saved by Alyssa Naeher in goal.

The deadlock was broken three minutes into the second half after McCaskill bodied the ball into the back of the net for Angel City. A dangerous cross evaded the entire Chicago backline to find the Angel City midfielder for her fifth of the season.

Chicago’s response in the second half was great with substitutes Sarah Griffith and Rachel Hill creating chances for Chris Petrucelli’s side. The only issue was getting the ball to cross over the line. The best chance in the second half came with five minutes of normal time remaining.

Found through on goal by fellow substitute Jillienne Aguillera, Griffith’s left foot shot was expertly smothered by DiDi Haracic who came off her line in time. The hosts weathered late pressure from Chicago to get a very important win in their race for the playoffs.

After another round of full NWSL Fixtures, here is how things stand:

Gorry Returns To Roar And Western United Announce AFF Winner Sawicki

Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from Brisbane Roar‘s Katrina Gorry, Western United‘s Jaclyn Sawicki, and head coach Mark Torcaso (18/8/22).

Above: Katrina Gorry, back in orange again for 2022/23. Photo: Brisbane Roar.

Matildas star Katrina Gorry will return to Brisbane Roar for the 11th consecutive season, it was announced today.

Gorry started her pro career with Melbourne Victory in 2009, but has been with the Roar ever since.

Preparing for her return to Brisbane following the conclusion of the Swedish Damallsvenskan season with Vittsjo GK, Gorry spoke about what drew her back to Brisbane after time in Europe.

“I really enjoyed my season with Brisbane last year and for me Brisbane is home. To be playing in front of my family and friends for the club I’ve played for 10 years makes me so proud and honoured to be a part of this coming season.”

Throughout her decorated career, Gorry has amassed over 100 appearances for the Roar as well as winning two premierships, while also establishing herself as a regular for the Matildas in midfield, winning 78 caps for the national team.

She will have the opportunity to add to those caps next month, having been included in Tony Gustavsson’s squad for the upcoming friendlies against Canada in Brisbane and Sydney.

**Above:** Katrina Gorry’s form has seen her back in the Matildas squad as the World Cup gets ever closer. **Photo:** Football Australia.

In a globe-trotting career, Gorry has also played for clubs in Canada, America, and Denmark before her latest Swedish stint, an opportunity she took plenty of lessons from.

With an eye on next July’s World Cup on home soil, Gorry is eager to hit the ground running for the Roar.

“This season is definitely the most important one, leading into a World Cup at home it’s about showcasing our league and Australia as a whole to the rest of the world and also to our fans and supporters across the country. It’s definitely a very important season and I’m so glad I can be a part of it.”

Having taken on a leadership role with the Roar’s young squad last season, Gorry is looking forward to reuniting with many familiar faces when the side takes to the pitch for their pre-season.

“I’ve loved seeing the release of signings, last year was so enjoyable so knowing we’ll have so many players coming back, I know I’ll have the support I need for me and Harper. Personally, it was the most enjoyable season I’ve had with Brisbane, so I’m looking forward to get back with the coaching staff and my teammates and seeing who else has signed for us!”

Brisbane Roar head coach Garrath McPherson is putting together a strong-looking team so far as the Queenslanders look to improve on last season’s campaign and head back towards Finals football.

CONFIRMED BRISBANE ROAR SQUAD TO DATE:
Eash Norrie (Lions FC), Hollie Palmer (Capalaba FC), Shea Connors (APIA Leichhardt), Larissa Crummer (Capalaba FC), Sharn Freier (Moreton Bay United), Mariel Hecher (Lions FC), Holly McQueen (Lions FC), Katrina Gorry (Vittsjo GK)

Western United Land AFF Champions’ Sawicki

**Above:** Jaclyn Sawicki in action for the Philippines against Vietnam in the AFF Championships Semi-Final recently. **Photo:** Angelo Rosales/Tiebreaker Times.

AFF Women’s Championship-winning Filipina midfielder Jaclyn Sawicki has become the second international player to join Western United’s inaugural Liberty A-League Women squad.

The 29-year-old was a key member of the Philippines team, coached by Australian Alen Stajcic, that won the tournament for South-East Asian countries in July.

“I am beyond excited to join Western United in the inaugural season for the women’s side,” Sawicki said.

“I can’t wait to meet and begin working with the rest of the squad, and hopefully this group can set the tone and pave the way for those players who will come after us in this club.”

Sawicki is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in a country she has long admired.

“My mom and I have talked about going to Australia for years, literally,” she said. “We found out Australia was one of the hosting nations for the World Cup in 2023 and now, I am currently fighting for a roster spot.

“My first camp with the (Philippines) National Team was also in Australia and now I’m going to get settled in here leading up to the tournament so it is all just kind of a funny coincidence.

“I am confident that Western United will give me the platform to learn and grow as both a player and individual and hopefully, I’ll give my mom a reason to book a flight out this way for next year.”

Western United’s A-League Women Head Coach Mark Torcaso said he had been impressed by the Philippines team, with Sawicki standing out to him as a player he would love to work with.

“The development of the Philippines team under Alen Stajcic has been incredible in the last 12 months or so, and Jaclyn has been really impressive in that period,” he said.

“We’ve certainly taken notice and identified Jaclyn as someone that will bring a lot of quality into our midfield. With her big-game experience and the level she’s played at overseas, she’ll be a big part of our team and I can’t wait to work with her.”

Born in Canada to a Polish father and Filipina mother, Sawicki represented Canada at youth level and made one senior appearance in 2011 before changing allegiances to the Philippines.

With stints in Sweden, Japan, and Canada under her belt, Sawicki joins with a wealth of experience in international and domestic football.

Sawicki joins American attacker Hannah Keane as the first two international players to join Western United as the squad continues to take shape ahead of the season’s commencement in November.

Gustavsson: It’s Time To Draw A Line In The Sand

Impetus’ Kieran Yap was in Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson‘s squad announcement media conference for us yesterday as The Matildas prepare to play Canada next month (18/8/22).

Above: Tony Gustavsson, pictured prior to the match with Spain in June, is narrowing his focus in terms of squad selection. Photo: Football Australia.

Some familiar names return to The Matildas as Tony Gustavsson commits to narrowing his focus a year out from the World Cup.

Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Sam Kerr, and Aivi Luik return to the squad. They are joined by Manchester City’s Matildas trio of Hayley Raso, Alanna Kennedy, and Mary Fowler.

Kyah Simon will continue to recover from an ankle injury with Tottenham Hostpur. Likewise, Elise Kellond-Knight will remain with Hammarby in Sweden as she continues her return to action.

**Above:** Australia’s bright young star Mary Fowler, now of Manchester City, is back in the Matildas line-up. **Photo:** Kris Goman for *Impetus*.

Gustavsson explained to the media that the beginning of his tenure was dedicated to addressing the depth of the squad. In that time Australia have uncovered or developed Charli Grant, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Courtney Nevin, and Mary Fowler into senior players, while testing many more. However, the focus has now shifted.

“We wanted to kind of draw a line in the sand after these 18 months,” he said at the squad announcement.

“When I started, we said ‘let’s invest 18 months in the Gap Report. Fringe players, and depth pathways. Over these 18 months, we’ve had 17 debutants. The decade before that we averaged 2.3 debutants per year. We tried to look at a larger player pool and tried different tactics against different opponents to invest in the long term and try and catch up.

“We’ve short cut the pathway for some of the players that have been jumping from clubland to national teams even a bit earlier. We’ve been using the national team almost as a development platform which it normally isn’t.”
Tony Gustavsson, Australia head coach.

“We’ve tried to shortcut that based on the Gap Report.”

**Above:** Giving a wide variety of players international game time has had mixed results for the Matildas. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Football Australia.

That long-term planning has meant some painful results for fans and observers. Although Gustavsson is adamant that those inside the camp are clear about the objectives and the plan so far.

“There’s a lot of faith in the process in the (inner) circle. Meaning staff and players know exactly what we’ve done over the 18 months, why we’ve done it why we’ve had so many debutants, why we’ve played the toughest schedule in the history of this program.

“They know where we are and where we’re heading. They also know that we now draw a line in the sand now and narrow it down. That doesn’t mean everything is going to be perfect in the Canada game, but the focus starts there.”

Gustavsson used the example of the Olympic preparation, done with limited time but that ended with a playoff for a Bronze medal. He remains confident in the process.

“I understand what from outside, maybe there needs to be good results to gain back the faith, but in my opinion, it’s about good performances.”

**Above:** Tony Gustavsson is looking to repeat the highs of Australia’s performances against the USA and Brazil. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Football Australia.

Gustavsson recalls some of Australia’s most impressive friendly performances. The second game against the USA and the series against Brazil were used as an example of what he is looking to achieve.

“If you can play that way,” he says, “People can see that we’re headed in the right direction.”

Most of the recent squad were not in camp against Spain and Portugal. The manager came under some criticism for prioritising the players physical and mental load over the opportunity to play against a World Cup contender. However, that decision has been somewhat vindicated by injuries and fatigue to some major stars during the Euros.

He stressed that although it will now be much harder to break into the national team, this does not mean that the door is closed to anybody.

“It’s a huge concern”

When assembling this latest squad, the condition of players remained a consideration. Some were in the middle of North American or Scandinavian seasons, while others were returning from injuries or long breaks.

**Above:** Charli Grant – one of the squad members coming back to Matildas duty from Scandinavian football. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Football Australia.

“There’s a massive debate going on in women’s football when it comes to player load,” said Gustavsson. “It’s a huge concern both from club and country.

“We tried to be ahead of that discussion when we made the decision in the June window which I know caused a lot of question marks and probably some criticism as well. Based on all the expertise I have around me, we thought that was the best decision for both the short and long term, and the player well-being.”

Australian fans have been rightly excited about the return of Elise Kellond-Knight’s return to action, but Gustavsson has taken the long-term view in not selecting the midfield general.

“She could be ready to be selected. If this was a World Cup maybe we would have selected her, but it’s a year out of the World Cup now and she needs to focus and progress slowly back into international football.”

“Right now, the best thing for her, is to have consistent minutes in training and games for club to then be ready for international football.”

**Above:** Back at last – Chloe Logarzo’s return is a big boost for Australia. **Photo:** Bristol City WFC.

One name that the manager is excited to include is midfield star Chloe Logarzo. It will be almost 12 months since her last appearance for Australia. She injured her ACL in the loss to the Republic of Ireland in September of 2021.

“I love working with Chloe,” said Gustavsson. “What a player and what a character. I had the privilege to work with her in the whole Olympic tournament and then the camp after that in September when she got injured.

“The same night she got injured, I met her in the corridor of the hotel on crutches. She understood then what it was, even though she hadn’t had it confirmed in an MRI.

“She just looked me in the eyes and said ‘Tony you know what? This is going to make me a better player. I’m going to commit like I’ve never done before. I’m going to have that World Cup in the back of my head and I’m going to be back stronger than ever.’

“A player saying that the same night that they go on crutches…that says a lot about Chloe. And she brings that character into the squad. She tough, she’s mentally strong, physically strong, and she combines that with her technical skills as well.”

**Above:** Chloe Logarzo in action against the Republic of Ireland in the game she suffered her ACL injury. **Photo:** Sporting News.

Logarzo’s return to The Matildas will raise the spirits of fans as it has the manager, but Gustavsson cautions about expecting too much from her. Her inclusion is part of assimilating her back into the team with the priority being The World Cup.

“She’s still less than 12 months away from that injury,” Gustavsson said as a reminder. “She’s selected because she hasn’t been with us since we moved to 4-3-3 after that September camp and Olympics.

“I want her in to see the playbook, see the training, and meet the team again. She’s ready for training at international level, but she might not be the best prepared for too many game minutes.”

Australia host Canada in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on September 3, and at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on September 6.

Matildas squad for Canada series:

Mackenzie Arnold (GK), Steph Catley, Alex Chidiac, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Larissa Crummer, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Emily Gielnik, Katrina Gorry, Charlotte Grant, Alanna Kennedy, Sam Kerr, Chloe Logarzo, Aivi Luik, Clare Polkinghorne, Courtney Nevin, Teagan Micah (GK), Hayley Raso, Emily Van Egmond, Cortnee Vine, Clare Wheeler, Lydia Williams (GK), Tameka Yallop.

Jay Coleman: A Key Component of Red Hot RedStar

In the latest of our WA On Wednesday series of interviews with NPL WA Women players, Perth RedStar‘s Jay Coleman spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about her footballing journey and her club’s incredible season (17/8/22).

Above: Jay Coleman (left) putting in a challenge for Perth RedStar against Hyundai NTC earlier this season. Photo supplied by: Carlos Vega Mena.

Jay Coleman’s football career has taken in three countries. The Kiwi has been playing the game for as long as she can remember, and credits the sport for keeping her on the straight and narrow.

“Ah look, football has kept me out of trouble and been a huge part of my life. I started playing in New Zealand when I was five. I played with boys up until I was no longer allowed to play with them and had to join a girls’ soccer team. I started playing women’s football when I was 14, alongside playing for my school team and representative football.

**Above:** Jay Coleman celebrates a goal against Hyundai NTC. **Photo** **supplied by:** Carlos Vega Mena.

“Football basically took over my life when I was an adolescent. I moved to Perth at the end of 2015 and joined Redbacks for a season in 2016, before moving to London in 2017 where I played two seasons for Fulham Ladies in the fourth tier of the game there before moving back to Perth in 2019, and returned to the Redbacks last season.

Coleman describes herself as a player who likes to “try and control the game from the midfield, as well as being strong in the air and having a decent strike on me.” Whilst she has played several seasons for Northern Redbacks, now known as Perth RedStar, her most proudest achievement with the team came as recently as the start of this campaign.

“Winning the night series final this year against Balcatta Etna, coming back from 2-0 down was definitely the proudest moment for me as a Redback. The game meant so much to us as a team and as a club being our last official game as Northern Redbacks. The fight and determination we team showed was incredible and I was honoured to be part of the team.

**Above:** Jay Coleman (second left) celebrates Night Series Cup success for Northern Redbacks in the club’s final game as a stand-alone entity as they overcome an early 2-0 deficit to defeat Balcatta Etna. **Photo supplied by:** Carlos Vega Mena.

“The game was so exciting! We had a nervous start and Balcatta took advantage of that, scoring a couple of goals early on. Our captain Shawn Billam stepped up and scored a much-needed goal just before halftime. We played for each other, and we played for the club, as I mentioned above it was a big game for us, and losing just wasn’t an option.

“We are a great team, work together well, move the ball, and create many scoring opportunities and there was never a moment where I thought we couldn’t win the game.”

With Northern Redbacks being one of Australia’s most successful female-only clubs, their merger with ECU Joondalup to form Perth RedStar – a club with male and female NTC and youth sides – was always going to be one of mixed emotions.

**Above:** Jay Coleman uses her strength to hold off a Hyundai NTC challenger. **Photo** **supplied by:** Carlos Vega Mena.

“I was always for the merger,” Jay explains, “as I only saw positives to come from it. The merger will provide our players with greater opportunities moving forward.

“Having ECU as our home ground is definitely a noticeable difference the field is much wider and bigger than Celebration Park and I think it suits our game more playing on a bigger field. It’s also nice playing after the men and having food after the game, creates a nice team and club culture. In New Zealand its normal to provide food for both teams after the game and debrief on the game, so it reminds me of being home which is nice.”

Whilst Perth RedStar’s NPLW rivals have generally have found it hard to maintain form on a consistent basis, Jay’s team are streets ahead at the top of the table and have already claimed the NPLW WA title having won 16 of their 18 league games, drawing the other two. On top of this, they have claimed the State Cup as well as the aforementioned Night Series. The New Zealander doesn’t take her team’s huge advantage for granted as the season approaches its pointy end with the Top Four Cup.

**Above:** Jay Coleman in possession for Perth RedStar. **Photo supplied by:** Carlos Vega Mena.

“Yeah, look, we have started off the season how we wanted, and we hope to continue that way for the remainder of the season. Personally, I just want to play good football, win games, and score more goals.”

One of the reasons behind RedStar’s successes this season is that they have retained such a large number of their previous season’s squad – something that a number of their opponents did not manage to do, as Coleman observes.

“The competition is always strong but this year with a few players moving to play over in the eastern states, a lot of clubs are rebuilding their teams with younger players coming up to fill those spots. I think as the season goes on and those younger players get a feel for playing at a higher intensity the competition has got stronger and stronger.”

NPL Victoria Women Round 19 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 (17/8/22).

Above: Box Hill United (blue) look to get away against FV Emerging. Photo: Passion Creations.

Football Victoria’s Youngsters Emerge as Finals Contenders

Box Hill United 1-3 FV Emerging

A thrilling first half between Box Hill United and FV Emerging was the highlight of the week in the NPLW Victoria.

A fourth-place finish was within grasp for both sides before the match, and Box Hill started the brightest.

Sofia Sakalis opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Melinda Barbieri played her into space and Box Hill’s leading scorer added her eighth goal of the season with a stunning effort.

The FV Emerging defence gave Sakalis only the smallest opportunity but the Perth Glory attacker turned and struck a dipping shot from 18 yards into the net.

**Above:** Sofia Sakalis’ shot flies into the net beyond the reach of the FV Emerging goalkeeper. **Photo:** Passion Creations.

The lead lasted only seven minutes. Although the pitch was almost dangerously bumpy, both teams were playing fast-paced football. Sakalis, Barbieri, and Anais Josefski menaced the FV Emerging defence at one end, while Caitlin Karic created chances for the visitors.

Karic tried her luck from long range with an effort that brought a good save out of Gidari in the Box Hill goals. Then Silver Bell Morris leveled the scores.

The FV Emerging defender rose highest to meet the corner kick at the back post. She was unopposed but still directed it with power. The game was not yet 15 minutes old, but we had been treated by two expertly taken goals.

Box Hill almost hit back after Sakalis played Guila Mazzeo behind the defence. Emma Olsen saved Emerging by coming off her line immediately to smother the danger.

**Above:** Penalty box aerial dual as Box Hill United look to clear. **Photo:** Passion Creations.

The ever-dangerous Sakalis almost earned her side a penalty when her footwork resulted in a free-kick in a promising position. The referee judged that it had taken place on the edge of the box and Barbieri’s free kick bounced off the wall.

The momentum of the game started to shift towards FV Emerging. Emma Langley made a perfectly timed intervention for Box Hill to stop Candice Kilderry adding to her impressive haul this season.

Kilderry was involved in Emerging’s second goal. After almost making contact with a cross from the right, she chased the ball down, kept it in play, and got it back to her teammate.

Sarah Cain played a quick decisive pass into the penalty box, where Karic made room for herself before prodding it beyond Sienna Gidari to make it 2-1.

**Above:** Celebration time for FV Emerging at Box Hill United. **Photo:** Passion Creations.

As half time approached with the game still tightly contested, Emerging scored the fourth and final goal of the game.

Another corner kick was Box Hill’s undoing. The ball in was only partially cleared, and Isabella Accardo smashed in a half volley with make it 3-1 with almost the last kick of the half.

Despite the admirable and entertaining efforts of both sides in rough conditions, neither could add to the score line in the second half.

The win means that FV Emerging jumped over Alamein into fourth space. With two games left to play, Alamein could yet make the finals. They only lag by one point, and play bottom-placed Bayside next week.

FV Emerging have a tougher test against Bulleen, but the third-placed side has already locked away their ladder position and it is not an unwinnable game.

Teams: BOX HILL UNITED: Gidari, (Hudson 61’), Hall, Kos, Pickett (Zikas 83’), Langley, Josefski, Schaddee Van Dooren, Mazzeo (Petkaris 61’), Mackie, Barbieri (Hilton 90’), Sakalis.

Scorer: Sakalis 7.

FV EMERGING: Olsen, Morris, Richards, Sewards, Curtis, Kilderry, Brown (Dovaston 70), Cain, Accardo (Cortellino 81’), Bulic, Karic (Vlaeminck 70’)

Scorers: Morris 14’, Karic 37’, Accardo 45’.

Referee: James Langoya.

Round 19 Wrap:

**Above:** South Melbourne (blue) and Heidelberg United battle it out at the weekend. **Photo:** Gold Leaf Creative.

In the other games of the round, Heidelberg United travelled to beat South Melbourne 4-0. Danielle Wise continued her dominant season with another brace. Keeley Lockhart added another and Holly Murray conceded an own goal for South.

Nike FC Cup winners Calder United also won 4-0 over Bayside United. Raquel Deralas, Melissa Taranto, and Emma Robers got the goals. Sienna Fogarty conceded an own goal for the home side.

On Monday night, Bulleen Lions secured a top-four finish with a 1-1 draw with Alamein. Elaina Vatcky scored the equalizer for Alamein but Bulleen opened the scoring with a goal of the season contender.

Aroha Little received the ball 20 yards from goal and hit a shot that defied physics. It seemed to go high into the air before taking a sharp dip into the net. It was a sensational way to score and another in a long list of highlights for Bulleen this season.

Two games remain. The title chase is still not over and the race for fourth spot is more exciting than ever.

Lowry And Nash Reflect On Young Matildas U20 World Cup Exit

Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Perth Glory’s Hana Lowry and Sydney FC’s Jessika Nash after the Young Matildas 3-0 loss to Spain today eliminated them from the U20 World Cup at the group stage (17/8/22).

Above: The Young Matildas side who faced Spain earlier today. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia’s dreams of progressing from a fiendishly tough group at the U20 World Cup in Costa Rica are over after a 3-0 loss to Spain today eliminated the Young Matildas.

Ultimately, Spain were clinical in front of goal with Julia Gabarro’s hat trick enough to send them through to the knockout phase and Australia back home.

The Young Matildas were not without their chances. Bryleeh Henry had the Green and Golds’ opening chance of the game. She was allowed to run and dribble down the left flank before moving more centrally and fizzing a strike which was claimed by Adriana Nanclares.

Australia maintained possession well and in the opening stages of the second stanza forced Spain back into their defensive half. This strong spell was highlighted by a Hunter long-range effort which was calmly claimed by Nanclares. However, just like the first half, Spain was able to head down the other end and make their chances count.

**Above:** Hana Lowry speaks to the media earlier today after the Young Matildas’ game with Spain in Costa Rica. **Image:** Football Australia.

Speaking after the game, Lowry highlighted the crushing feeling after the final whistle. “It’s disappointing to get the loss, I was emotional at the end as our journey has come to an end.”

With the Young Matildas placed in a group involving the South American champions, the European champions, and the host nation, Leah Blayney’s side had just about the biggest possible challenge they could have had and despite that, the Perth Glory midfielder is clear that Australia competed exceptionally well and have a lot to be proud of.

“I’m so proud of the girls though as we gave it our all out there and left nothing on the pitch, but couldn’t get the result. The results didn’t go our way in the last two games (against Spain and Brazil), but we’ve been playing the football that we’ve been working on for the last six months – we showcased that to the world. I’m gutted that we’re not progressing through, but proud of what we did.

“I’m proud of our resilience and how we’ve stuck together. This journey didn’t start two weeks ago, it started six months ago and we’ve showcased good football.”

Enter Jassika Nash

**Above:** A bittersweet experience for Jessika Nash, who made her first start of the U20 World Cup, but suffered the heartache of elimination. **Image:** Football Australia.

Young Matildas’ head coach Leah Blayney made three changes to the starting XI from the opening two games against Costa Rica and Brazil, with Abbey Lemon, Jessika Nash, and Charlie Rule earning starts.

There were mixed emotions for Nash after the match. “It’s disappointing to not get the result that we wanted, but look, we can take a lot away and build on it for the future. There’s so much bright talent to come through.”

Nash, who has been a burgeoning talent in the A-League Women for several seasons, emphasised that whilst this tournament is over for the Young Matildas, the squad themselves are in a really good place going forward.

“The international experience that we take away from this tournament is second to none. We can’t fault our effort, we had nothing else to give. This team are not done yet though!”