Tigers Set For Rams Showdown After Huge Semi Win

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chelsea Travel To Liverpool On A Mission To Be Better

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chelsea play Liverpool on Sunday at 5pm local time.

Chambers Positive Ahead Of United Clash

by Holly Wright (16/9/22)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Emma Chambers, Reading head coach on Manchester United.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Powell Hopeful Ahead Of Gunners Test

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Canberra, Western United, And Adelaide United Add Major Names

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

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

Canberra United are delighted to welcome back midfield playmaker Grace Maher who has re-signed with the club for the forthcoming Liberty A-League season.
 
The talented Canberra local has been a mainstay of the club in recent seasons, having burst onto the elite level scene as a teenager, going on to make over seventy appearances in the league, scoring ten goals in the process.
 
Widely known for her ability to strike from range, Maher is a fan favourite having initially made her name in the local leagues before being snapped up to make her Canberra United debut in the 2014 season.
 
“I am thrilled to be signing for Canberra United for another season in green and am looking forward to working with Njegosh (Popovich), the Canberra United staff, and the rest of the squad,” Maher said.
 
“Canberra United are my local team and, whilst it may be cliché, they are my team and one that I feel privileged to play for. To represent my hometown team in the national competition is something I treasure, and I can’t wait to get back out in front of our magnificent supporters.
 
“Njegosh is building a squad that will be capable of playing creative, attractive football and with the combination of our loved homegrown players and new interstate talent, we will be fighting to bring trophies home to Canberra for the 2022/23 season.”
 
Maher, who has represented Australia at U17 and U20 levels, has spent all of her career with United, bar a couple of campaigns with Melbourne Victory, and has scored nine goals for Canberra and one for the Melbourne-based side.
 
“Grace is a top-class player, a technician, who has excellent control, a wide range of passing, and the ability to strike at goal from distance,” Njegosh Popovich, United’s Head Coach, said of the signing.
 
“We have witnessed at first-hand the qualities that Grace possesses over her eight seasons in the Liberty A-League and I am delighted that she has decided to re-sign for another season with the club.
 
“Not only is she a great footballer, but she also brings an understanding of Canberra and the culture of the club and the city, and that is important when you are building a harmonious and successful football club.”

Artwork: Western United.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Artwork: Adelaide United.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


 

Arsenal Ready And Gunning For Glory

Impetus’ Johnathan Stack was in Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall‘s media conference for us ahead of the Gunners’ opening WSL game against Brighton and Hove Albion tomorrow night (15/9/22).

Above: Jonas Eidevall at this week’s Arsenal media conference. Photo: Arsenal WFC.

After an exceptional summer of women’s football that gripped the nation and ended in Euro’s glory for the Lionesses, the Barclays Women’s Super League returns this weekend.

Starting a week later than planned out of respect due to the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the WSL has seen a soar in popularity and ticket sales off the back of England winning UEFA Women’s Euro 2022.

At Arsenal, they have sold out of season tickets for the 2022/23 campaign and over 40,000 tickets have already been snapped up for the WSL North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium on 24th September.

The Gunners were supposed to get their season underway against Manchester City away at the Academy Stadium in the live TV game, but with all football being postponed last weekend, Arsenal will now get their campaign started at home at a sold-out Meadow Park against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Above: Arsenal in training this week. Photo: Arsenal WFC.

Head Coach Jonas Eidevall gave his thoughts on Friday’s opponents saying: “I’ve been very impressed by Brighton during the pre-season because I also saw that they had a huge turnover (of players). I’ve seen them play against Bayern Munich, I’ve seen them play against us, I’ve seen them play against Manchester City and they looked like a good team in those games.

“I think that some of the players they have got in over this window are of a really high quality, so we are expecting and preparing for a competitive game here on Friday.”

The 39-year-old Swede also gave his thoughts on how the WSL is going to respond to the increased interest after the Euros: “I’m sure that the players will respond in a way that will be excellent because of the quality on the pitch and we see that the sporting product is of high quality.

“We just need to make sure that we now find stadiums that allow all attendances to come in and watch. I think that will be the problem because we have a very low number of medium-sized stadiums in the country.”

Above: Reflecting on the challenge posed by Brighton and Hove Albion plus the correct venues to play WSL games – Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall. Photo: Arsenal WFC.

“You either have smaller stadiums or really big stadiums and our game that didn’t go ahead against Manchester City is a perfect example of that. We’re two good teams with a lot of interest which is going to be a sell-out in their academy stadium, so the question is: if so many more people want to watch the game, where do we play that? So we really can have all the people who want to come to the game and make sure they have access to it.”

He also gave his thoughts on how the WSL can maintain the levels of interest from the summer “In the end, it’s about creating a product that means so much to people that you go there and you watch the game even if it’s a snowstorm! You go there and watch even if it’s not convenient because you care so much about the team and you want to be there so much. We try to do our best on the pitch to create that.”

“Of course, if I speak just about Arsenal, as a whole club, we try to work together with all the departments so we can reach out to all our potential audiences and bring them to the stadium so we can experience that together. That’s not a quick fix just to do one thing, but it’s about creating that connection with people so they want to go and they feel that they have to go because it’s their first priority and then you don’t have to worry about the weather in January when you have created that.”

When asked about his Matildas pair of Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley, Eidevall confirmed that both are fit and available for selection.

Arsenal take on Brighton and Hove Albion at Meadow Park tomorrow night (Friday), 7:30pm.

A-League Women Fixture Schedule Announced

Impetus’ Ben Gilby brings news of all the important dates and matchups for the season ahead, plus hears from Wellington Phoenix CEO David Dome on the excitement of finally hosting an A-League Women game in New Zealand, and Adelaide United‘s head coach Adrian Stenta and Isabel Hodgson on the excitement to build on their maiden finals appearance of 2021/22 (15/9/22).

The Liberty A-League fixture schedule for 2022/23 was announced earlier today with the season getting underway on 19th November with the last of the 20 rounds of regular season matches being played between 1st-4th April 2023.

With Western United entering the competition this season, the league will run with 11 teams, meaning one side will have a bye each week. Western Sydney Wanderers will be the recipients in the opening weekend.

The 2022/23 campaign will open with a match-up between two sides who just missed out on Finals football last season with Canberra United welcoming Perth Glory to McKellar Park. Also on the same day, Brisbane Roar host Newcastle Jets at Perry Park, and Western United’s historic first-ever A-League Women game is a Victoria derby against reigning champions Melbourne Victory at City Vista Recreation Reserve. The following day, Wellington Phoenix will finally play a game in New Zealand a year after entering the competition when Melbourne City journey to Sky Stadium. The round concludes with a mouthwatering clash between two of last season’s finals qualifiers, Adelaide United and Sydney FC at Service FM Stadium – SA’s state centre of football.

Above: City Vista Recreation Reserve – the first venue to host Western United in an A-League Women match. Photo: Austadiums.

Western Sydney Wanderers enter action in Round Two with a trip to Newcastle Jets. Perth Glory will finally return to Western Australian soil to play A-League Women football for the first time in a year when Adelaide United arrive at Macedonia Park. There will be one other notable fixture in week two with a repeat of the Grand Final of the last two years with Sydney FC hosting Melbourne Victory. It will therefore be a testing opening to the campaign for both these two sides.

There will be a range of fixtures over the Christmas and New Year period. December 23rd sees Canberra United host Melbourne City and Newcastle Jets welcome Brisbane Roar to No 2 Sportsground. There is a Christmas Eve Sydney derby with Wanderers travelling to Allianz Stadium.

New Year’s Eve sees Brisbane Roar take on Sydney FC at Perry Park, Melbourne Victory host Canberra United at CB Smith Reserve, and Newcastle Jets play Adelaide United at No 2 Sportsground. New Year’s Day sees Perth Glory welcome Western United to Macedonia Park, whilst Wellington Phoenix take on Western Sydney Wanderers at Sky Stadium on 2nd January.

The final round of matches between 1st – 2nd April starts with Wellington Phoenix’s game with Melbourne Victory at Sky Stadium, Brisbane Roar host Perth Glory at the atmospheric Perry Park, Western United take on Western Sydney Wanderers at City Vista Recreation Reserve, Sydney FC welcome Newcastle Jets to Allianz Stadium and Melbourne City will take on Canberra United at AAMI Park.

Above: Alyssa Whinham and Wellington Phoenix are finally going to be playing on home soil. Photo: Welloington Phoenix.

Speaking about the excitement of finally being able to host A-League Women in New Zealand, Wellington Phoenix CEO David Dome said: I’ve never been this excited heading into a Phoenix season. It’s the start of a massive 12 months for women’s football in New Zealand and I simply can’t wait for our opening game against Melbourne City.”

Dome has set the bar high, targeting a record A-League women’s crowd for the season opener.

“I want to see 10 thousand plus fans come to Sky Stadium on Sunday, November 20. The players and staff deserve a big homecoming for everything they went through in their maiden season in Australia and we have the chance to show everyone that we have the best fans in the A-League.”

Above: Adelaide United head coach Adrian Stenta – excited about the fixture reveal. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United.

Excitement is also building in South Australia with Adelaide United looking to build on their first-ever appearance in Finals football last season. Head coach Adrian Stenta said: “As a Club, we could not be more excited for this new campaign. The steps we took last season were very promising and we’re confident we can continue building on that and improve even more. 

“With the core of our squad retained, I know the strong bond we have as a group will remain, as we welcome our new signings with open arms. The positive impact this chemistry can have on the success of a team cannot be undervalued and holds us in good stead ahead of 2022/23.” 

Reds captain Isabel Hodgson is also full of anticipation: “Making history last season by reaching our maiden finals series was amazing, although there’s no denying the disappointment we felt when our season came to an end.

“But this has just fuelled the fire within us. I know I speak for the entire group when I say we’re entering this season with another point to prove and will be doing everything we can to make a proper statement in 2022/23.”

Calder Clinch NPLW Victoria Glory

Calder United 2-0 Bulleen Lions

by Kieran Yap (14/9/22)

Above: Calder United celebrate with the trophy after winning the NPLW Victoria Grand Final against Bulleen Lions. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Calder United have capped off a remarkable NPLW season by winning Victoria’s Grand Final 2-0 over Bulleen Lions.

It was Calder’s third trophy of the season following their first-place finish and a Nike FC Cup triumph. Mark Torcaso’s team was rebuilt in short time and dominated the league, scoring 55 goals while conceding just seven in 2022.

The Grand Final was a case of the unstoppable against the unpredictable. Bulleen had been hampered by inconsistencies throughout the season. Caitlin Friend had forged a squad built on a strong pedigree and some exciting youngsters.

At the start of 2022, Bulleen had six players who were in A-League women’s sides last season. Tiffany Eliadis, Lia Privitelli, and Paige Zois from Melbourne Victory, Tyla Jay Vlajnic and Rebekah Stott from Melbourne City, and Alana Jancevski from Perth Glory.

They were complimented by some less familiar but eventually impressive players like the deceptively powerful Aroha Little and the fearless Rosie Rodger.

Importantly, all of the A-League players had come from clubs that either went deep into the season, or had highly unusual campaigns, like Perth’s COVID bubble or Victory’s congested February.

Above: Calder United (green) and Bulleen Lions battle it out in Sunday’s Grand Final. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Towards the end of the season, Paige Zois was called up to international duty while Vlajnic and Stott secured unmissable European opportunities. That Bulleen secured third place comfortably and won their semi-final is an amazing achievement by the club, players, and managers.

However, even at full strength, they may have been no match for this Calder United squad, nobody this season was.

Calder United began the season in form and maintained that throughout the season. the Grand Final win was their seventh straight victory. Up until the finals, they had only lost twice and dropped points on five occasions in total.

Scoring against them felt unlikely, preventing them from scoring was almost impossible. They only failed to score on two occasions this season and although the team was littered with individual talent, choosing one standout player is difficult.

So the two teams met in the Grand Final and it felt as difficult to bet against Calder as it did to count out Bulleen. The game was hotly contested, but not a classic contest,  and an even first half saw the three best chances fall to Bulleen, while Calder went into the break 1-0 up.

Raquel Derales had the first shot on goal for Calder. The scorer of the semi-final winner made space in the box but was on a difficult angle when she shot. Emily Shields was able to make the first save of what would be a busy afternoon.

Zois returned fire for Bulleen. Calder seemed to put a lot of effort into swarming the Young Matilda and preventing passes to her feet. She was able to run towards goal and get a clean shot away but Alyssa Dall’ Oste was untroubled.

Above: An aerial battle from Sunday;s NPLW Victoria Grand Final. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Calder’s opening goal was both fortuitous and deserved from the build-up. A corner kick was only half cleared by Bulleen. Emma Robers maintained possession on the edge of the box and instead of blazing back into a crowded area, she played it back out wide to Alana Cerne.

Cerne whipped in a dangerous cross and the ball deceived Shields to fly into the back on the net. It was a goal crafted from patience, discipline, and luck. To win a Grand Final, all three are handy.

The goal arrived in just the 16th minute, but Bulleen suddenly seemed rushed for a short period. They were more hurried to get the ball forward, but once they regained composure they enjoyed two good chances to end the half.

Both came from the left foot of Alana Jancevski. Her low cross from the wing somehow missed everybody in the area when any touch would have scored. Then in the closing minutes, her free kick was on target and dipping, but Dall Oste’ was able to hold onto it to deny a lurking Eliadis.

The talented forward was finding it hard to find time and space on the ball. She does not need much, but Calder were in no mood to risk her having any.

Calder attacked more throughout the second half. Alexis Rossi hit the woodwork with a spectacular long-range effort. Then Shields made a miracle save from Melissa Taranto’s follow-up. She was called into action seconds later from a header that was clawed away at full stretch.

Cerne played the pass of the game to Taranto again in the3 60th minute. She dropped the ball perfectly over the defence from deep. Taranto’s volley connected well and only the post prevented it from being 2-0.

The second goal came at a bad time Bulleen. The Lions were starting to get a foothold back in the game and were desperately unlucky not to score Lia Privitelli’s flick at a corner kick.

Minutes later, Calder drove forward. Stacy Papadopoulos, who was almost unstoppable on the wing all day, found Melissa Taranto in the box. The forward stopped and turned to find a shot. When it wasn’t on she played it back to the winger.

Above: Aleks Sinclair (on the ball) tries to get away from Bulleen Lions’ Tiff Eliadis. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Papadopoulos played a dangerous ball across the face of goal where Taranto was on hand to tap it home. It was a wonderfully crafted goal, where individual skill and team chemistry combined.

Importantly, it left Bulleen with only 15 minutes to score twice, against a team that had barely conceded all year.

Jancevski offered the best hope of that. Her long-range effort looked dangerous off the boot and she looked disappointed when it whizzed over despite the high degree of difficulty.

In a show of force and intent. Torcaso withdrew fullback Montana Matthews and replaced her with striker Ava Groba.

Bulleen could not attack without risking a third, Groba’s pace would leave them vulnerable and she almost scored after a counterattack, before Aleks Sinclair nearly sealed it with a near miss.

After five minutes of injury time, Calder United were crowned Champions with the trophy presented by Tony Gustavsson.

With the core of this squad set to feature in the A-League with Western United, they may surprise a few teams next season. They have talent, they are well organized, and will be complemented by some senior experience.

Above: The sheer joy for Calder United on Sunday. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.

Bulleen pledged to be back next season. Caitlin Friend’s first full season in charge was an admirable one. They were in championship-winning form in the COVID cancelled year and did well to rebound for this one.

But this was Calder’s day as it was their season. They were undeniable, tenacious, and skilful. Julia Sardo received player of the match awards, but Montana Matthews is also due some appreciation.

The full-back has routinely kept dangerous wingers quiet while being confident carrying or passing the ball forward. She has had a breakout season in the NPLW and surely as A-League football in her future.

The Grand Final was no exception. Up against Lia Privitelli, she had her work cut out for her, but was diligent and combative without the ball, while willing to take risks with it. She is a bit special.

That concludes Victoria’s NPLW coverage for 2022. It has been an absolute pleasure to write about these players and clubs this season, and a privilege to see some of Australia’s best and future stars in action up close.

Attention now turns to the upcoming A-League Women’s season. With a new club in the mix, many of Victoria’s players will feature. Anybody who watched this league will be excited to watch them seize the opportunity.

Teams: CALDER UNITED: Dall’Oste, Cerne, Derales (Cain 64’), Robers, Dakic (El-Hayek 90’), Taranto, Sinclair, Papadopoulos, Mathews (Groba 82’), Sardo, Rossi.

Scorers: Cerne 16’, M. Taranto 75’.

BULLEEN LIONS: Shields, Natoli, Zois, Burn, Privitelli, Eliadis, Little, Johnson (Rodger 76’), O’Bryan, Dolzan, Jancevski.

Referee: Caitlin Williams.

Artwork: Graphics by PW.

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 22 (14/9/22).

Above: Kate Mooney heads DLR Waves in front against Athlone Town. Photo: @MinoguePeter. 

Round 22 of the 2022 Women’s National League saw 20 goals scored. We have new league leaders after a twist in the title race.

Wexford Win To Go Top

Women’s National League legend Kylie Murphy scored her 100th goal for Wexford Youths in all competitions as Wexford Youths took top spot in the Women’s National League.

Cork stunned the would-be league leaders early on with a goal from Christina Dring set up by Eva Mangan. The away side remained solid, but Youths were awarded a very controversial penalty when Danielle Burke was penalised for the most minimal of contact on Becky Watkins. Aoibheann Clancy scored from the spot. Shortly after Clancy scored a second penalty to put Youths in front.

Wexford took control after the hour mark with Ciara Rossiter putting in a fine performance and scoring the third. Ellen Molloy chipped in as she often does before Murphy netted her milestone goal. Wexford Youths 5-1 Cork City

Shels Slip Up As Peas Get Revenge

Last season’s winners have had the better of Peamount this year. However, Shels had a setback in their quest to retain the title when they were beaten by their Dublin rivals, who had won the league the two seasons prior to Shelbourne lifting the trophy.

Both sides performed well but it was the away side who had the better chances, Peamount threatened through Ireland legends Aíne O’Gorman and Stephanie Roche.

Jessie Stapleton came close to putting the reigning champions in front, Stapleton had just returned from Slovakia where she was on Ireland duty.

Peamount would finally make the breakthrough when Stephanie Roch latched on to a Sadhbh Doyle Cross. Doyle had an excellent game and was awarded play of the match. Shelbourne 0-1 Peamount United

Athlone Lose Ground On The Top Two

Although Athlone came into the game as title contenders, it was DLR Waves who will feel they dropped points at the UCD Bowl on Saturday.

The visitors did start well and had a chance in the opening half-hour when Gillian Keenan and Emily Corbet linked up. Both have had super seasons but Corbet couldn’t keep her shot down. Waves took control of the game from there and got their reward. Aoife Brophy and Kerri Letmon linked up well on the left, Brophy send a long diagonal ball to the far wing, where Sarah McKevitt was on hand to whip the ball back in for Kate Mooney to head home.

It was very nearly 2-0 shortly after when Mia Dodd smashed a shot in from long range, but it hit the bar. Athlone pressed for an equalizer while Waves continued to make chances. Eventually, the Midlands side equalized through Madison Gibson who finished from close range. It finished all square, but the point a piece does not really do any good for either side. DLR Waves 1-1 Athlone Town

Connacht Derby Provides Another High-Scoring Affair

Above: Galway and Sligo line up ahead of kick-off. Photo: @GalwayWFC.

A hectic match saw Sligo and Galway play out another seven-goal thriller.

The sides were even early on with Paula McGrory putting the home side in front before Jamie Erickson equalized. McGrory would volley in a second for the reds but they would be pegged back just before halftime with Shauna Brennan scoring off a corner-kick routine.

Galway dominated the second half with headed goals from Bryce Reynolds and Chloe Singleton. Janna Slattery scored from long range in the 70th minute to put the result beyond any doubt.  

Just after 18:00 on Sunday, Galway announced they would not be applying to take part in the WNL next season, which would see their spell in the league end since joining in 2012. Sligo Rovers 2-5 Galway.

Battling Treaty Bested By Bohs

Above: Goalscorers Rachel Doyle and Niamh Prior Challenge for the ball. Photo: Conor Wyse.

Treaty United haven’t won a game all season but the Limerick side almost made it to halftime with things level. Abbie Brophy had the ball in the net for Bohs but was ruled out for offside. From there Treaty keeper Trish Fennelly had plenty of saves to make, but couldn’t stop Rachel Doyle’s shot going in after it took a deflection. Bohs led at the break.

The Dublin side took control in the second half. Brophy wouldn’t be denied five minutes into the second period, and she got another shortly after to put the visitors well in control.

Brophy would provide the assist for the fourth. She sent in a ball that was expertly volleyed home by Niamh Prior. Prior joined Bohs from Waves over the Summer in search of more game time. She has been a revelation since and a key figure in Bohemian’s recent wins. Treaty United 0-4 Bohemians.

Table

Wexford overtake Shelbourne at the top of the table with just one point separating the sides. The two teams meet on the last day of the season, so both will know if they win their remaining games, they will be champions.

Peamount and Athlone remain in the title race but will be aware that they cannot afford any more slip-ups.

Galway fasten their grip on a top-half finish with DLR Waves and Bohemians dropping points.

Sligo Rovers, Cork City, and Treaty United all lost meaning the bottom three sides are still well adrift of the rest.

Fixtures

Saturday 17th September Fixtures

Cork City vs Galway

Turners Cross / 17:00

Peamount United vs Sligo Rovers

PRL Park / 17:00

Bohemians vs DLR Waves

Dalymount Park / 18:00

Wexford Youths vs Treaty United

Ferrycarrig Park / 18:00

Athlone Town vs Shelbourne

Athlone Town Stadum / 19:00

Remember you can watch every game live on LOITV.ie for free with sign-up.

Follow @PostToPostSport on Twitter and Instagram for coverage of the WNL. Make sure check out our Women’s Football Blast, where we look at the latest in Irish Women’s Football domestically and international every Wednesday, each week it goes up on our Irish Football Page on PosttoPost.Sport.Blog. you can contribute to our fundraiser for Ireland’s National Autism Charity here.