Above: England joy after the sensational comeback win over Spain in Brighton last night. Photo: Lionesses.
Following the total breeze of Group A which saw three wins, 14 goals, and none conceded, the Lionesses faced their first major test for some time. What a test it was as Spain were outstanding for 70 minutes of this contest and nullified any England threat.
Lauren Hemp and Fran Kirby two of England’s greatest forces were well shackled on a night of great challenge for the host nation. As it their wont, Spain were there to frustrate and England hearts sank when Gonzalez scored nine minutes after the interval.
It looked a game too far for Beth Mead also as the Arsenal star struggled to get into this contest and was substituted accordingly on 58 minutes.
However England found a way as Ella Toone popped up on 84 minutes and Georgia Stanway became the nation’s latest icon with an extra time rocket to set up a semi-final date in Sheffield on Tuesday.
A Tactical Masterclass
Above: The true value of Sarina Wiegman as Lionesses head coach was seen last night. Photo: Lionesses.
In all seriousness, Spain were heading through, they had done the ultimate job on England. Being difficult to play against, they frustrated the hosts and got the goal they needed. England were on the floor, hopes of progression in this tournament were disappearing before their eyes.
It was the perfect away performance by Spain. Had Sarina Wiegman not been present they may very well have probably progressed. However, we saw the true masterclass of all proportions as Wiegman rang the changes and got them absolutely spot on.
Toone and Russo were the most influential of the lot and the latter found the former and England were level.
Georgia Stanway then had the stage all to herself as she glided towards goal and was walking on water it seemed, as she stroll through an open door and promptly blasted in to win the tie.
Wiegman’s substitutes were key and they absolutely delivered to get England back in the game.
The Kelly and Greenwood Influence
Above: Chloe Kelly – an influential substitute. Photo: Lionesses.
The other substitutes from Wiegman who deserve a mention are Chloe Kelly and Alex Greenwood
Kelly replaced the out-of-sorts Mead just before the hour and was superb from the moment she was introduced. Greenwood replaced Rachel Daly on 84 minutes and promptly assured the back line.
These tweaks restored some assurance and provided calmness as the pair were superb across the remainder of the action.
Russo Pushing to Start
With three goals in the two matches against Norway and Northern Ireland, Russo is beginning to give Wiegman a true selection dilemma. These are the thoughts Wiegman will have to have between now and Tuesday and come to the solution best suited for the semi-final to come.
Brilliant Bright
Above: A masterful performance by Millie Bright last night. Photo: Lionesses/
Player of the match and rightly so was Millie Bright. The Chelsea stalwart was influential in ensuring Spain were limited to just the one goal.
Bright commanded the defence all evening and when your backs are against the wall it is often defenders who make the headlines. The Derbyshire-born star was outstanding and will be required again on Tuesday when an equally tough challenge awaits against Belgium or Sweden.
Superb Stanway
Above: Georgia Stanway celebrates her sensational strike. Photo: Lionesses.
A player for the biggest of moments and greatest of occasions is Georgia Stanway. That penalty back on 11th July against Norway saw England off to a flyer in that 8-0 demolition.
Last night was just the same as Barrow-born Stanway delivered in the biggest moment, a 96th-minute stunner of a strike measured at 57.23 MPH and from a distance of 23.2 yards that ended up hitting the net in 0.83 seconds from the moment Stanway connected with the ball, was an extraordinary moment to send England into the Semi Final.
Sweden or Belgium Await
Following sealing the Semi Final place, thoughts now turn to who England will face the winners of the Sweden against Belgium Quarter Final which takes place at Leigh Sports Village on Friday night.
Sweden will be favourites, but Belgium surprised some by qualifying from their group. They will fancy themselves causing another upset.
As part of our WA on Wednesday series featuring NPL WA Women players, Perth SC’s exciting attacking weapon Jaime Duncanson spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby abouther footballing journey, trying to find a positive growth mindset, and why she loves life at Dorrien Gardens(20/7/22).
Above: Jaime Duncanson celebrates after a goal against Subiaco earlier this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Whilst Jaime has loved sport since a young age, it was relatively late in her childhood that she made a conscious decision to focus on football. She explained: “I’ve always loved sport, so growing up I played lots of different sports all year round. It wasn’t until I was about 12-13 when I really fell in love with football and saw myself taking it up all year round.
“I remember going to my first ever Perth Glory Women’s game with my grandad and watching Shelina Zadorsky play. I was so in awe that she had travelled overseas to play, it was her job. I remember in that moment realising that this is something I could actually do. I will never forget that feeling.”
Above: Jaime Duncanson rifles in an effort against Subiaco this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Duncanson’s footballing journey began 70kms to the south of Perth. “I grew up in Mandurah, so my first proper club was Mandurah City FC, I loved it there – they really pushed me to keep trying to be the best I could. When I finished high school, I decided to take football a bit more seriously, so came up to the Women’s State Premier League and became a part of what was Melville at the time. After the folding of Melville, I moved to Queens Park SC (QPSC).
“This club truly changed me as a player and person. I will always be so thankful to the amazing players, coaches, and Woodfin family for my time there. After a few amazing years at QPSC, the NPL change came in, and unfortunately, our team had to fold, so I landed at Perth SC. Somewhere I am really proud to say I was there from the beginning.”
Duncanson highlighted the one club and totally inclusive nature of the Dorrien Gardens based club, and knows how lucky she is to be at The Azzurri.
“The reason we play sport is for a sense of community and belonging. That is exactly what I feel at Perth SC. The clubs’ emphasis on the women’s game really helps the accountability of our group, and I feel we are treated with the same trust and respect as our men’s team. And above all else, I love my team and the heart we train and play with.”
Above: Jaime Duncanson (third from front) sees the ethos and togetherness of Perth SC as one of the key reasons that she loves being at the club so much. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Jaime sees herself as a player who “offers a quick and varied attacking threat to my team.” She enthused: “I always want to score! I have always wanted to be the kind of player where the opposition has to think twice about where I am or what I’m doing.” That has certainly been the case this season as she’s been part of a consistently dangerous group of Perth SC offensive players who have been linking up well and scoring high-quality goals.
Despite her excellent performances so far this season, Duncanson readily admits that the mental side of the game is one area that she is looking to grow in.
“The biggest battle I have had/still have struggles with sometimes is the mental one. Staying in that positive and growth mindset is easy when you are playing well, but as every player knows, rough patches come and go. It’s about accepting those times but being strong enough to know that they will come and go. I think how you come back from those moments of doubt or self-criticism says more about you as a player than your best performance.”
Perth SC went into this season on the back of a place in last season’s Top Four Cup Final, which saw them defeated by eventual champions Murdoch University Melville. The Azzurri star reflected on the 2021 campaign.
Above: Jaime Duncanson pictured on a typical surge forward – this time against Curtin University. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
“We were so happy to make the final last year, and it’s definitely something that is on our radar for this year too. Last season was only our second as a group, so we were still building our identity as a team. There was no lack of heart or effort from the team and staff, so we are looking to keep that up this year, as well as build on our identity and new brand of football.”
That new brand of football that Jaime highlights sees Perth SC playing a passing-based game that focuses on bringing their talented midfield and striking players together in a fast-paced, skillful build-up approach. She believes that it is having a positive impact on their form so far this season.
“We have come out with a fairly new team, and new style of play, so I think we have done really well so far! It’s always going to take a while for things to settle and everyone to be on the same page, however I think the moments in games gone by are an indication of what our team is capable of. It’s been so great to be a part of and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the season brings.
“Personally, I am always striving to be the best player I can. I take it really personally when things don’t go our way and I just want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to help my team win each week. I think I’m having a good season so far in terms of scoring, so I just want to make sure I keep that up throughout the rest of the year.”
Above: Comfortable on the ball and looking to bring teammates into the game – qualities that has made Jaime Duncanson such an impressive player this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Looking more widely at the NPL WA Women’s competition this season, Jaime sees positive growth and believes things are only going to get better.
“It’s great to see the growth of teams and clubs over the last few years. To be able to have such competitive games each week is great for all players and for the competition as a whole. We’ve seen old and new teams come and go, but what’s great is the vibe around the competition – in my opinion, players, clubs, and staff are taking it more seriously which is helping raise the bar.”
Above: Deadly with the ball at her feet and in front of goal – Jaime Duncanson celebrates a strike at Balcatta Etna earlier this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Impetus’ Kris Goman is our roving reporter at the Euros. She is travelling the length and breadth of England watching matches at just about every venue possible. With the group stage now at an end, she reflects on the opening few weeks of the event(20/7/22).
Above: One of Kris’ favourite moments from the tournament the atmosphere created at Brighton when England crushed Norway 8-0. Photo: Kris Goman.
So I’ve been here nearly three weeks and seen nearly half of the group stage matches. The only teams I didn’t see play were Finland, Northern Ireland, and Belgium. I’ll see Belgium as they are through to the quarters but now won’t see the other two unfortunately.
It’s been a great tournament so far. Fairly well run, although I can think of quite a few improvements. The stadiums have been great but each time it’s a bit of a surprise as to where I’ll be sitting. I’ve got a range of cheap tickets and expensive tickets. The more expensive ones have, on a couple of occasions, meant I’ve ended up in a suite with extra catering and a free drink and pretty good seats.
Other cheaper tickets have meant I’ve ended up with the gods looking down from on high and I expect that’s where my tickets for tonight’s first quarter final will be, unfortunately. I really should have spent more money for the quarters and semis but when I bought the tickets I wasn’t even sure if I could go.
Above: The Dutch fans’ fun bus. Photo: Kris Goman.
All the games have been great but the ones that really stick out are the ones where the fans are really engaged. Netherlands definitely have the best fans. They bring this huge orange bus with them that leads the fan walk. They have DJs on board and a cranking sound system and everyone knows all the words to all the songs. Many are chart hits but I don’t know if they’ve changed the words to be about the team or if it’s just the dutch version of the songs, as I don’t speak Dutch.
The passion is contagious and super fun and many of the fans dress up. They are really well organised. They even hand out flags to everyone following the bus and get them back afterwards. I think the Matildas supporters have a long way to go to reach this level of enthusiasm but I know we could get there with a bit of organisation and maybe some financial support.
The next best fans are the Icelandic fans. They have block booked a lot of tickets and look fantastic in their blue, red and white. What is noticable is that they are here for the women and almost all the fans have women players’ jersey on, not jerseys of male players which is often the case with other teams. They are here for the woman.
Above: Iceland fans doing the Thunderclap during their nation’s game with Italy at Manchester City Academy Stadium. Photo: Kris Goman.
I heard the Icelandic Prime Minister was here and saw some people that looked like Mayors walking around too. They are passionate, have a small band leading the chants and again they are well organised, have great chants and of course, the world-famous, Thunderclap.
The next best are the English fans just from the sheer weight of their numbers. Less organised as there’s so many of them, but there’s power in numbers and with a rich history and tradition, they know what to do. If anyone starts a chant, they all join in. ‘Sweet Caroline’ is de riguer at the end of the match and with each goal and win the calls of “It’s coming home” get louder. One I particularly like is “Beth Mead’s on fire, your defence is terrified, Beth Mead’s on fire, your defence is terrified, naa, na-na, na-na naa-naa, na naa-naa, na na” to the tune of ‘Freed From Desire’ by Gala.
The atmosphere at Brighton the night they demolished Norway 8-0 is something I’ll not forget for a long time. I’m on my way to Brighton again, as I write this and am expecting something similar tonight against Spain as the knockout stages commence.
Today marks a year until the start of the World Cup in Australia and that should be the Euros on steriods. There’s certainly some improvements they can make and I hope that starts with the stadium food. I’ve been going to a match every day so most of my main meals have been at the stadiums and the sausage rolls and pies are wearing a bit thin.
Above: The Academy Stadium, Manchester – the venue with the best food so far…Photo: Kris Goman.
Manchester Academy had slightly better food with a pulled beef roll and where I’ve lucked into the premium seats including hospitality, there’s been a half-decent pizza and some quite good chips but other better food on offer too. What’s noticable is the food and drinks of the sponsors and this limits healthy options when the sponsors are Pepsi, Heineken, and Doritos.
One thing I find weird that won’t be an issue in Australia is not being able to drink beer in your seats. No alcohol is allowed to be consumed in the stadium so it all needs to be drunk where the kiosks are. This is law in England to limit drinking so it’s great we don’t have these problems in Australia. Not to that extent anyway and never in the women’s game.
What has been good is access to the players and given the rise of Covid again, it’s been a little surprising. I’ve been able to get autographs and photographs from quite a few teams. Iceland, Italy, France, Austria, Norway, and Spain have all been good. The Danish players wanted to sign but were stopped by their management but did take photos.
This was a bit surprising as they’d just been knocked out so there wasn’t as much at stake while the Spanish players who were still in the tournament were signing everything. The English team wouldn’t sign anything but Beth Mead and Hannah Hampton were taking photos but most of the rest of them went straight to the bus after the match. I guess they are here to win and aren’t taking any risks at this stage.
Above: Austria and Norway line-up at Brighton. Photo: Kris Goman.
Anyway, it’s onward and upwards as I try to get around to all the remaining matches via train. It’s a challenge right now as many services have been cancelled after the exceptionally hot weather yesterday and the day before. To make matters worse, there’s a train strike on the 27th which will affect the second semifinal at Milton Keynes.
I’ve found a way to get from Sheffield to Milton Keynes but I won’t be the only person and I expect significant delays. Thankfully all the games are at 8pm but I’m going to need most of that time to get there as will most people.
It’s generally been fairly easy to get around by train despite having to go from Sheffield or Manchester to Brighton or vice versa numerous times. I am wondering how it will be done in Australia and New Zealand with the vast distances between host cities. It’s just not possible to drive or get the train but I guess it will depend on the schedules. And flying will be expensive so I hope they release the schedules with plenty of time to plan and book ahead. I guess we’ll know in October when the tickets go on sale.
Regardless, this has been a fantastic experience and I can only recommend people buy as many tickets as they can to the World Cup and throw themselves into the tournament and the experience. I know I will.
Above: The Women’s World Cup – the tournament starts in a year’s time today. Photo: USA Today.
Australia and New Zealand have started the 365-day countdown to the Women’s World Cup with the unveiling of the Unity Pitch in Sydney, along with some other big announcements for football fans.
Landmarks across the two nations’ host cities were lit up in lights to celebrate the fast-approaching tournament. The Sydney/Gadigal, Harbour Bridge and Aukland’s/Tāmaki Makaurau, Sky Tower joined Wellington’s/Te Whanganui-a-Tara Parliament House and numerous other locations in the visual celebration.
In another huge announcement, FIFA revealed that the first tickets will go on sale to the public on 6th October. Prices will begin at $10 (£5.75) for children and $20 (£11.51) for adults.
At the launch of the Unity Pitch, FIFA Secretary-General Fatma Samoura had one more surprise. Although discussions are still underway, there is a possibility of massively increased prize money for the 2023 World Cup. The hope is that it will be as high as $100 million for whoever lifts the trophy next year.
“Today is a great day in the build-up to the ninth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” said Samoura at the ‘One Year To Go’ event
“The excitement at the lighting ceremony in Hamilton/Kirikiriroa and the enthusiasm around women’s football here at Barangaroo Reserve for unveiling of the Unity Pitch, is wonderful and this support and passion will make the FIFA Women’s World Cup truly unforgettable.
Above: Youngsters gather at the event in Sydney today marking a year until the 2023 World Cup starting. Photo: FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023/
“This competition will provide a platform to inspire and unite through the power of women’s football and FIFA, together with the host countries, looks forward to welcoming players and fans from around the world and going Beyond Greatness together in 2023.”
Created with the tournament’s colourful livery in mind, The Unity Pitch it will be open to the public and local football groups until 24 July.
Following that it will tour each of the tournament’s nine Host Cities over the next year. A Unity Pitch will be gifted to both Host Countries, Australia and New Zealand, as part of FIFA’s commitment to leave a lasting legacy in the region.
Joining Samoura at the unveiling was Matildas’ star Ellie Carpenter and FIFA’s Chief Women’s Football Officer Sarai Bareman.
“Today is a hugely exciting milestone,” said Bareman. “And with qualifications taking place around the world for the competition, more community spaces for women and girls to play football, and tickets about to be released, FIFA is hugely excited to see women’s football go Beyond Greatness in 2023.”
It’s the biggest signing in Wellington Phoenix‘s short A-League Women’s history. Impetus hears from both Paige Satchell and head coach Gemma Lewis (20/7/22).
Above: Paige Satchell – the Football Fern is coming home. Photo: NZ Football.
Paige Satchell has chosen to continue her football career in New Zealand in the lead-up to next year’s World Cup.
The pacey Football Ferns forward has signed with the Wellington Phoenix for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League, after playing for Canberra United and Sydney FC the previous two seasons.
“I’m excited for this new adventure with the Wellington Phoenix,” Satchell, 24, said. “I’m excited to see what the girls can do and I’m ready to get going. I’m always looking to push myself and leading into the World Cup it’s going to be an important season for me. Game time’s really important so I’m going to make the most of any game time I get and push myself to make sure I’m in the best form coming into the World Cup.”
Getting the chance to play regularly in New Zealand in the lead-up to the country co-hosting the world’s biggest women’s sporting event is also a major drawcard for Satchell.
Above: Paige Satchell in action for Canberra United during 2020/21 against the club she would join the following season, Sydney FC. Photo: Canberra United.
“That’s huge. There are some other girls in the team that could also potentially be in the Ferns squad for the World Cup next year so that’ll be great to play alongside them and get to know them a little bit more.
“It’s great that we can play at home during the A-League season and continue that at the World Cup next year as well. It will really build momentum leading up to the tournament as well, getting some support from fans in New Zealand.”
Her family are also looking forward to seeing the Tokyo Olympian play, with just one of her 30 international caps being in Aotearoa since she made her debut in 2016.
“They’re super excited. They haven’t been able to see me play at home for quite a long time so they can’t wait. They’ll definitely be flying down to watch some of the games, which will be awesome.”
Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis expects Satchell to fill the goalscoring void left by Grace Jale’s departure.
“We don’t feel like we’re necessarily missing out by losing Grace,” Lewis said. “She’s a great player but by signing a starting Fern, one that has scored goals on an international stage with the qualities that Paige has, we don’t feel we have a hole. We’ve filled that gap with somebody that has a lot of experience and a lot to offer.”
Above: Paige Satchell training with Sydney FC last season. Photo: Cessnock Advertiser.
One of Satchell’s main attributes is her speed, and that is something Lewis is looking to take advantage of next season.
“We saw ourselves how much we struggled to deal with that sort of pace,” Lewis said. “You can see it has an impact at the highest international level, so within the A-League it’s definitely something that players and teams will be worried about.
“For us it’s going to be about how we utilise that and how we give her the best opportunity and provide her with enough ball that she can really show what she can do.”
Paige Satchell is the Phoenix’s third signing for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League season, joining foundation players Mackenzie Barry and Alyssa Whinham in the squad.
The Phoenix plan to announce further signings over the coming weeks.
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos (19/7/22).
Above: Action between Heidelberg United (yellow) and Alamein when the two sides met earlier in the season. Photo: Sally Tsalikidis.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Heidelberg United 3-2 Alamein
Heidelberg United’s match against Alamein was an intriguing match-up. Heidelberg shook off a dramatic Nike FC Cup semi-final loss to South Melbourne with a comfortable 2-0 win over Bayside United.
However, that was against the bottom side. Round 16’s opponents presented a very different challenge. Alamein are fourth place in the table but have been one of the more consistent sides this season. They have beaten the sides below them with regularity, but their only win against another top four side was against The Bergers, and that was in Round Two.
Heidelberg are enjoying a strong season. With five games remaining, they are the only side to defeat league leader Calder United and have both attracted and developed top-level A-League Women’s talent at the club.
This match was the only one of the round between two top-four sides. With their position eyed off by both Box Hill and South Melbourne, Alamein needed a win.
Alamein started well, but it was the home side that had the first chance of the afternoon. Danielle Wise was set free on the counter-attack by Stephanie Galea. She remained composed as she carried the ball into the area and held off the attention of Mia Lantieri-Barley but her near post shot was saved by Evelyn Goldsmith.
Although Alamein had controlled the midfield, it was a reminder of the quality that Heidelberg have to turn a game.
Above: Sidney Allen (with headband) who fired Alamein ahead at Heidelberg United. Photo: Alamein FC.
It was the visitors that eventually struck first. A turnover in defence gave Katerina Nikpour a chance to shoot. The ball was blocked but deflected to the edge of the box where Sidney Allen fired home a volley to make it 1-0.
It was a deserved lead on the balance of play. Alamein went into the break ahead, but also with 11 shots on goal compared to Heidelberg’s four. They had won the midfield battle and played the game on the front foot. Heidelberg were still dangerous and all four of their efforts had been on target but needed to change the game’s momentum in the second half.
Johnno Clemente’s side wrestled back control and by the hour mark had scored twice. A long throw earned Heidelberg a corner kick. Galea’s ball in was excellently placed to the back post and Grace Jale rose highest to nod it into the net in textbook style.
The recent Canberra United recruit was mobile and dangerous from the second the half kicked off. She is creative and hard working when dropping deep, but remains deadly in the box and only needs half a chance to score. She was given far more than that by the Alamein defence and levelled the scores.
Jale added an assist to her name in the 59th minute. A long ball forward from goalkeeper Natasha Stathopoulos bounced beyond the midfield and the former Wellington Phoenix player only needed one touch to set Wise through on goal.
Wise accelerated into space and flicked the ball beyond the goalkeeper with her left foot to change the dynamic of the match within 15 minutes.
Above: Grace Jale, who grabbed a brace for Heidelberg United. Photo: Heidelberg United.
Danielle Wise is one of the NPLW’s most in-form attackers. Her runs from deep and ability to find space with her pace and close control has made her a difficult player to stop and her 12 goals in 16 games should have the attention of A-League scouts.
Grace Jale’s momentous week continued. In the 73rd minute, she pressed high up the pitch and robbed the Alamein defence of the ball. The New Zealand striker exploded towards goal and steadied before placing it beyond the keeper to make it 3-1. She had an involvement in every Heidelberg goal and all three were very different.
She linked up once again with Wise minutes later, but the well-struck shot by Wise was powerfully struck, though easily saved.
Alamein pushed to regains a foothold in the contest, but the home side were brimming with confidence. There were no obvious tactical or formation tweaks after halftime, but Heidelberg looked like a completely different team.
The game did not end tension-free. Alamein pulled themselves back into the contest with an 86th minute goal. Heidelberg’s back four was defeated by a well-timed through ball and Betti Michael finished well. But there was not enough time to find a late equaliser.
Above: Alamein’s second goal scorer Betti Michael (red shirt). Photo: Passion Creations Photography.
This loss puts the pressure on Alamein. They remain marginally ahead of South Melbourne, and travel to play them at Lakeside Stadium in the next round.
Heidelberg were impressive again. Not just for the win, but also how they re-energised themselves and gained control of the match in the second half. Their finishing was ruthless and Jale was imperious.
They look like a near-certain bet for second spot at worst. FV Emerging is their next opponent before a rematch with top-placed Calder United.
Above: Action from South Melbourne’s game with Bayside United (orange). Photo: Behind The Lens LMR.
In other results, South Melbourne continued their second renaissance of the season with a 4-2 win over Bayside United. Francesca Iermano scored again, and Bella Stringfellow notched her first hat trick for the club.
Bayside made a game of it. Claudia Budiongo scored a first half equaliser and another in the 59th minute to give her side a fighting chance.
Calder United’s game with FV Emerging was suspended. The league leaders dropped to second on the table but have two games in hand.
Above: Paige Zois, who opened the scoring for Bulleen Lions. Photo: Bulleen Lions.
At the Veneto Club, Bulleen Lions defeated Box Hill United 5-0 in a ruthless display. Paige Zois curled a free kick home to open the scoring, then Tyla-Jay Vlajnic and Lia Privitelli both scored spectacular braces in the win.
Vlajnic’s two goals were powerful left-foot finishes, while Privitelli chipped the keeper on both occasions, her second was after an Alana Jancevski pass that curled beyond the defence and landed in the path of the Bulleen skipper.
Five goals of the highest quality served as a reminder that Bulleen’s form dip was only temporary.
Above: Iceland’s Karólína Lea Vilhjálmsdóttir in possession at Rotherham last night watched by France’s Charlotte Bibault (14). Photo: Euro 2022.
Whilst France were already qualified for the Quarter-Finals, there was still plenty to play for in this the highest of groups at Euro 2022.
Iceland, like their opponents, were unbeaten and knew that a win would guarantee a spot in the last eight. The superb Icelandic support would also be keeping one eye on goings on some 40 miles to the west where group rivals Belgium and Italy were facing off at the same, with both nations capable of making it through as well.
This was a game at Rotherham bookended by goals. France opened the scoring within 47 seconds when Malard connected with her left foot on a pass from Matéo; this was the new fastest goal in the tournament. Malard had replaced Marie-Antoinette Katoto in this game as central forward after Katoto ruptured her ACL.
Above: Melvine Malard (12) celebrates her early goal and references injured team-mate Marie-Antoinette Katoto. Photo: Euro 2022.
Despite their large domination during the first half, France were unable to add to their lead. Sandy Baltimore was culpable not always making the right decision in offensive positions.
It must be said, the extreme heat – temperatures were still at 36c when the match kicked off at 8pm – had an impact on the game, and understandably so.
At the very end of the match some 12 minutes into stoppage time, Iceland obtained a penalty, awarded by VAR, and Dagny Brynjarsdóttir converted to seal a draw
The draw was no good for Iceland. As Belgium won 1-0 against Italy, it is the Red Flames who join France as qualifiers for the quarter-final from this group. Despite ending their campaign unbeaten, Iceland are out.
Above: Disappointed Agla Maria Albertsdóttir (17) and Hallbera Gudny Gísladóttir thank the Icelandic support after the match. Photo: Euro 2022.
Above: Lucy Watson signs for Chelsea today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Chelsea FC Women.
Chelsea have just announced the arrival of young forward Lucy Watson from Championship side Sheffield United on a two-year contract until summer 2024. She will wear shirt number 25.
The winger from Barnsley comes with a significant amount of first-team exposure, having made her debut for the Blades at the age of 16, joining them halfway through the 2019/20 season from Doncaster Belles, where she made her first team debut while just 15.
Having shown incredible pace and confidence on the ball, she soon secured several starts for United that same season with her first senior goal coming in the form of a sensational strike from range in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup. Watson went on to score in both their FA Cup fixtures that season and went on to boast eight goals in 22 Championship matches in 2021/22.
Watson is also a significant young talent on the international stage, earning regular caps for England at both Under-17 and Under-18 levels, receiving her first call up to the Under 19s squad in June 2021 at the age of 17.
The young Lioness was most recently called up for the England Under-19 squad for the UEFA European Championship qualifiers at St. George’s Park going on to feature in the UEFA Women’s Under-19 European Championship tournament in the Czech Republic, where she made the starting line-up against Sweden.
On signing for Chelsea, Watson said: “I am so proud to have signed for a huge club like Chelsea. I am very excited to continue my development and see what the future holds for me. Thank you to Emma Hayes and the team for giving me this opportunity.’
Blues head coach Emma Hayes added on the signing of Watson: “Lucy is one of the best young attacking players in the country, so we are delighted that she has joined the club.
“We have followed Lucy’s development for some time since her time at Donny Belles, where Paul Green had coached previously and it’s clear she has natural talent and ability.
“Lucy has developed really well at Sheffield United and we now feel she is ready to make the next step. In the short term, we’ll be looking to send her out on loan for the forthcoming season to ensure she gains valuable game time.’
Watson becomes Chelsea Women’s fourth signing this summer following the arrival of Eve Perisset, Kadeisha Buchanan, and Katerina Svitkova.
Ben Gilby provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Western Australia NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos(18/7/22).
Above: Balcatta Etna (blue) and Murdoch University Melville keep their eyes on the prize at Grindleford Reserve yesterday. Photo: JASP Photography.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Balcatta Etna 2-0 Murdoch University Melville
Balcatta Etna took the win in a hugely important game in the context of the race for the final place in the end-of-season Top Four Cup at an overcast Grindleford Reserve on Sunday.
Balcatta, who have been on the wrong end of results against clubs above them in the table in recent weeks, named an unchanged team from the one who suffered heartbreak in the midweek Hyundai State Cup semi-final against Perth SC. This meant that Isabella Comito remained in goal replacing Gabby Dal Busco who has COVID.
In that last four tie, Balcatta led The Azzurri for a long time in the game before eventually being denied a place in next weekend’s final in a penalty shoot-out loss.
Above: Isabella Comito in goal for Balcatta Etna yesterday in the absence of COVID stricken Gabby Dal Busco. Photo: JASP Photography.
Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) came into this match in their best form of the season. Much changed from their trophy-laden campaign in 2021, MUM FC’s new squad had been showing their potential in sporadic flashes throughout the campaign, but now are putting some consistent results together. They knew that victory here would see their transformation from a side hovering just above the bottom two to being inside the top four complete.
Murdoch were able to welcome back Sadie Lawrence, a key part of their successful campaign last year who then went on to put in some impressive shifts for Perth Glory in the A-League Women. Lawrence would be on the bench along with Rosie Lehane who had returned from England.
The action started with a bang as Balcatta Etna earned a corner with their first attack of the game with just 30 seconds on the clock. The ball came in at the second attempt from Lauren Continibali and was flicked back at the near post by Monique Godding for Elizabeth Doust to volley home. Despite MUM FC keeper Monique Todd’s best efforts, it went in. There were just 50 seconds on the clock.
Above: Goal celebrations for Balcatta Etna yesterday. Photo: JASP Photography.
Balcatta continued their forward momentum, earning plenty of joy along the right-hand side. Murdoch University Melville weathered the early storm and had a great chance themselves with 11 minutes played. Meghan Hulsman was played through, beat Doust, and got in on goal, but her shot was over the top.
The home side continued to press. Continibali got past Lucy Hope and found Carys Davis who played in a teasing cross towards the near post which Todd repelled for a corner. Balcatta’s sixth in just 23 minutes.
Murdoch began to get a foothold on matters and captured their most consistent period of possession and territory. They were not without chances in the first half. Hooks, Charli Wainwright, and Hulsman were all the leading lights in this period. The home side’s defence remained well-organised and tough to break through. On the occasions that MUM FC did get through, they found Balcatta goalkeeper Comito in good form.
Above: Pointing the way forward – prior to Balcatta Etna’s second goal, Murdoch University Melville were enjoying their best spell of the game thus far. Photo: JASP Photography.
Within 10 minutes, another corner led to Balcatta Etna’s second goal. Continibali played it in. Monique D’Opera went up at the near post with MUM FC’s Poppie Hooks who headed clear, but the ball fell to Doust and the centre-half drove the ball into the net to complete her brace.
There was one further chance before the break as Murdoch’s Sophia Neal found Nikita Strickling who hit a low shot that Comito gathered well on the bounce.
Despite forcing seven corners by half-time, Balcatta had only managed three shots on target to Murdoch University Melville’s five. The difference was in the ability to turn chances into goals.
Above: Dramatic action from Balcatta Etna v Murdoch University Melville yesterday. Photo: JASP Photography.
The second half opened with a worrying incident for the hosts as Davis looked to turn her right ankle and needed to be replaced by Aaliyah Jorquera.
Despite this, Balcatta remained on the front foot. They were confident on the ball with some impressive passing movement. Their pressing was effective and they remained solid at the back to minimise any threat from their visitors.
Clear-cut chances were a lot harder to come by after the break. The home side managed to get the ball into the net again when D’Opera pulled a ball over from the left for Godding towards the far side of the box to smash home, but it was correctly ruled out for offside.
Above: Poppie Hooks (4) was one of the bright lights in Murdoch University Melville’s performance. Photo: JASP Photography.
Hooks remained a threat for MUM FC and the teenager showed some flashes of creative genius. With 20 minutes to go, the Perth Glory A-League Women player strode into the Balcatta half and unleashed an absolute rocket from over 30 yards that hit the bar and bounced down, but the whole of the ball failed to cross the line.
Murdoch rallied and Neal’s corner was directed goalwards by Lawrence. The ball found its way to Wainwright on the far side of the box. She showed great skill to jink past the Balcatta defence to earn another corner.
Realistically, MUM FC never looked like forcing a goal. A combination of a well organised home defence, and a lack of razor-sharp finishing from the visitors ensured that Balcatta kept a clean sheet.
Above: Balcatta Etna had just too much yesterday for Murdoch University Melville. Photo: JASP Photography.
This was an absolutely huge win for Balcatta Etna. It keeps them secure in the all-important fourth spot, and depending on results elsewhere, could possibly see their aspirations raised higher.
Above: A first half chance for Perth SC (blue) at Hyundai NTC on Sunday. Photo: NPL.
Hyundai NTC took on Perth SC on Sunday afternoon on a heavy surface at E&D Litis Stadium. Despite continuing to play some excellent football, the teenage development side have slightly fallen out of the Top Four Cup qualification race in recent weeks.
However, having beaten Perth SC in both previous NPLW encounters this season, accounting for half of their wins for the entire campaign going into this match, there was always a chance that their hopes of post-regular season football could be reignited.
The Azzurri dominated the first half, and within two minutes had the ball in the net as, following an exchange of passes at a short corner on the right, Liana Cook bundled home at the far post, but was ruled to be offside.
This was to be a repeating pattern throughout the first half. Perth SC were caught offside three times in the opening four minutes of the match, and a total of six times throughout the opening 45.
Above: An example of Hyundai NTC (yellow)’s high defensive line against Perth SC yesterday. Photo: NPL.
The NTC defence were playing a very high line that was making it exceptionally tough for the visitors to break through. The only thing that the hosts were not able to do in the first period was to consistently get their dangerous, strong, and pacey attack going.
Jaime Duncanson was the key player for The Azzurri, looking to create along the left and take on defenders with pace. However, no matter what Perth SC tried, the youngsters of the NTC stayed supremely disciplined and well-organised at the back. It remained goalless at the break.
The opening period of the second half saw the hosts finally get going from an attacking perspective, and just before the hour mark went ahead with a superb move. Anna Powell received the ball and advanced towards the box before playing a perfectly weighted pass to Louise Tana to fire home near the right-hand post.
Above: Hyundai NTC celebrate Louise Tana’s winning goal. Photo: NPL.
As time wore on, the game become increasingly stretched. Powell steered the ball into the net, but NTC were denied a second goal by the offside flag. Towards the end, Perth SC rallied, but other than one shot that flew just over the bar, were unable to trouble Lilly Bailey in the NTC goal.
This was a really tough loss for Perth SC. Of their five NPLW WA defeats this season, three have been to the NTC. What looked like comfortable qualification for the Top Four Cup is now potentially under threat. Fourth-placed Balcatta Etna are just a point behind, and the NTC in fifth, are only three points in areas. Fascinatingly, Balcatta and the NTC still have to play each other twice.
If the NTC can maintain defensive discipline and unleash their attacking threat, they are more than capable of playing Top Four Cup football. One thing is certain, they are always hugely enjoyable to watch.
Above: They will be together again at Perth Glory next season, but on Sunday, Tash Rigby (left) of Fremantle City and Ella Mastrantonio (right) of Subiaco were opponents in the NPL. Photo: Denyse McCulloch.
Fremantle City took advantage of Perth SC’s slip up to go five points clear in second place with a 6-1 win at Subiaco at Rosalie Park on Sunday afternoon.
Subi welcomed W-League and Matildas star Ella Mastrantonio into their ranks as they looked to continue a season of growth. However, ultimately, it was not to be on the day.
Freo went ahead with 12 minutes gone when Kat Jukic confidently dispatched a penalty down the middle. Despite the hosts forcing a couple of corners in the interim period, the visitors continued to have chances with a looping effort from the edge of the box.
Above: Fremantle City goalkeeper Dayle Schroeder saving bravely at Rosalie Park yesterday. Photo: Denyse McCulloch.
However, with 20 minutes on the clock, they got their second. Sofia Osborne laid off to Kayla McCulloch who played a perfectly weighted through ball for Mikayla Lyons who drew Subi keeper Zara Board and slot home.
Within four minutes though, the hosts were back in it. Mastrantonio picked up possession in midfield and dinked an inside pass for another former Perth Glory W-League player Mariana Tabain. The ball was then recycled around and back to Tabain on the edge of the box to feed Chelsie Winchcombe who found the far corner of the net with a low shot.
Above: Kayla McCulloch (black kit) created two of Fremantle City’s goals with superb slide rule passing. Photo: Denyse McCulloch.
Subiaco’s hopes of a comeback were dashed within two minutes and it was McCulloch once more providing an inch-perfect slide rule pass into the path of Jukic who hit a shot into the right-hand corner. Fremantle then turned the screw, forcing five corners in as many minutes.
The home side responded with Keziah Burgis advancing up the right and finding Tabain who finished from an acute angle, but the assistant referee’s flag went up, adjudging Tabain to have come from an offside position.
Above: Fremantle City’s Mikayla Lyons takes on Subiaco’s Ella Mastrantonio. Photo: Denyse McCulloch.
Fremantle City came out after the break and within five minutes killed off any realistic hopes Subi had of getting anything from the game. Lyons’ short corner was played back to Jess Darmago who returned the favour. The ball into the box from the left was palmed down for Board into the path of Matilda Boyle whose shot was blocked but the rebound fell perfectly for Janice Kiama to score.
The game was wrapped up with two further strikes. First, more good work from Darmago on the left saw the Freo flyer pop across a superb cross for Jukic who was unmarked at the back post to turn a defender and fire into the far corner to complete her hat-trick.
Above: Matilda Boyle, who wrapped up the win for Fremantle City at Subiaco. Photo: Denyse McCulloch.
The sixth game with just over a quarter of an hour to go when Tash Rigby found Darmago on the right who played the Perth Glory captain in once more to fire a cross over for Boyle to head home.
Curtin University‘s home game with Perth RedStar will be played tomorrow evening (Tuesday) at Edinburgh Oval.
P
W
D
L
F
A
Pts
GD
Perth RedStar
14
14
0
0
55
6
42
+49
Fremantle City
16
8
4
4
39
23
28
+ 16
Perth SC
14
7
2
5
20
8
23
+12
Balcatta Etna
14
7
1
7
17
16
22
+1
Hyundai NTC
15
5
5
5
23
28
20
-5
Murdoch University Melville
15
5
3
7
15
18
18
-3
Subiaco
14
2
3
9
13
43
9
-30
Curtin University
13
0
2
11
12
52
2
-40
NEXT WEEK: HYUNDAI STATE CUP FINAL: Perth RedStar v Perth SC (Sunday). No NPLW WA matches next weekend.
Impetus’ Blaise Ogutu brings us his detailed weekly round-up of all the action from the NWSL (18/7/22).
Above:San Diego Wave faithful at the Torero stadium against Racing Louisville. Photo:@sandiegowavefc
Thrilling Draw in San Diego, Hat-Trick in Houston, and a Five-Star Performance in Portland: NWSL Week 12
We are halfway through the NWSL season and teams now find themselves playing the return fixtures. Five games were on the card this weekend however with the Courage and Angel City game postponed due to Covid-19 protocols. Here’s how things turned out for the ten teams involved.
The San Diego Wave and Racing Louisville played out to an enthralling 0-0 draw at the Torero Stadium on Friday night. San Diego took control of the game from the opening minutes but it was Racing Louisville with the better opportunity to open scores in the 20th minute. Carly Telford had to get big to save Kirsten Davis’s shot from a tight angle on the right. Four minutes later the English shot-stopper was again on hand to deny Davis’s attempt while through on goal. Kelsey Turnbow provided Wave’s first real chance midway through the first half after robbing Gemma Bonner but her low strike was kept out by Katie Lund.
Lund was called into action in the opening minutes of the second half with a double save to deny San Diego’s Tegan McGrady before Bonner cleared off the line to maintain scores. Louisville had the ball in the back of the net after Jaelin Howell flicked on Savannah DeMelo’s corner kick but was recalled for a foul on Telford. The chance to take the lead was biggest in the 72nd minute for Kim Björkegren’s side as Alex Chidiac was brought down in the penalty area by fellow Matildas international Emily van Egmond. But DeMelo’s attempt from the spot was equally met by Telford who guessed correctly to deny the youngster a fourth goal of the season.
A brilliant end-to-end game for both sides as 39 shots were taken with both keepers combining for 15 saves. But for all the entertainment, neither team benefitted as San Diego failed to pull further ahead at the top of the table and Louisville still sit six points from the play-off positions.
Above: Hat-trick hero in Houston, Ebony Salmon. Photo: @HoustonDash.
The Houston Dash cruised to a brilliant 4-1 victory against a lacklustre Chicago Red Stars side courtesy of a hat-trick by new signing, former Bristol City WSL star Ebony Salmon. In Juan Carlos Amaros’ first game as head coach, there was a significant change in the team’s energy as constant pressure within the first ten minutes allowed Salmon to get her first goal in the orange uniform.
Shea Groom intercepted Emily Boyd’s clearance to set up Salmon for the opener. Ella Stevens could have equalised for the visitors in the 35th minute but her attempt was easily thwarted by Lindsey Harris in Dash goal. Ebony Salmon was on the scoreboard again right before halftime with her second of the night. Salmon outpaced Tatumn Milazzo on the right-hand side before calmly slotting the ball past Boyd.
Ten minutes into the second half, the PNC Stadium was bouncing again when Salmon completed her hat-trick by finishing off a brilliant counter-attack led by Ryan Gareis from the left flank. Chicago had an improved second half but could not create any clear-cut chances as substitute Jill Aguilera skied her attempt from the left. They did get a consolation goal a minute before stoppage time with Notre Dame alumus Samantha Fisher bundling in from close range.
The little sense of joy was quickly dashed away when Dash found their fourth of the night through substitute Joelle Anderson. She saw her shot nearly saved by Boyd but slipped through her fingers to end a frustrating night for the Red Stars. Chicago’s chance to go on top of the table evaded them on the night failing to capitalise on San Diego Wave’s slip up while Houston got back to winning ways and maintain fourth position.
Above: Portland Thorns players celebrating Marissa Everett’s goal against Gotham FC. Photo: @ThornsFC.
In the other game on Saturday night, the Portland Thorns once again run riot at home to Gotham FC with an impressive 5-0 win. A six-minute spell of chaos saw the home side go 3-0 up within eleven minutes with Taylor Porter, Olivia Moultrie, and Marissa Everett all finding the back of the net.
The pick of the bunch was Moultrie’s attempt from outside the box. Finding space in a short space of time and with little thinking room, the 16-year-old expertly placed her shot into the top right corner evading Ashlyn Harris in goal. The game simmered down as Gotham finally found their bearings but could not create decent chances to get back in the game.
The second half was an easy breeze for the Thorns and they added a fourth when Hannah Betfort headed in Madison Pogarch’s cross in the 65th minute. Morgan Weaver rounded off the scoring by pouncing on a loose pass from Harris to bend it into the net and extend Portland’s unbeaten run to eight games. A world of difference between the previous weekend’s expedition for Gotham as they see chances to make the play-off places continue to slip from their grasp.
Sunday featured a drab 0-0 draw at the Audi Field as the Washington Spirit hosted the Orlando Pride. For the latter, a point away from home with the performances they have been putting in recently is still good enough to see them move further away from the bottom of the table. A couple of chances in the first half from forward Darian Jenkins could have broken the deadlock but her first shot in the 16th minute went agonisingly wide and the second was saved by Devon Kerr in the Washington net.
The home side had a chance immediately after the breather through Jordan Baggett but her attempt on the half turn was smartly saved by Erin McLeod in the Pride goal. In the end, a result that pushed Washington’s winless run to 12 games even after outshooting their opponents 17 to four.
Above: Kansas City Current’s Lo’eau LaBonta charges away after scoring against OL Reign. Photo: @thekccurrent.
In the final game of the weekend, a resurgent Kansas City Current narrowly put away OL Reign at the Lynn Family Stadium courtesy of Lo’eau LaBonta’s 17th-minute spot-kick.
Both teams came into the match unbeaten but it was Kansas City who broke the deadlock following a sweeping move from back to front. Victoria Pickett was found in space on the left flank and while cutting inside, was taken down in the area by a clumsy Phoebe McClernon challenge. LaBonta stepped up and went for the top right corner beating Tullis-Joyce in goal. Reign had their chances as Kim Little saw her chance saved by Adrianna Franch after a late run into the box. Bethany Balcer also came close on the half-hour mark but her sharp strike could only strike the upright.
Laura Harvey’s charges dominated the ball for most of the second half but Current again came close to a second goal when Cece Kizer skied her attempt inside the six-yard box which in all fairness was an easier chance to score than miss. Harvey introduced fan-favourite Tobin Heath for her first minutes in the navy blue of Reign in the 77th minute but it was Ally Watt also off the bench with a good chance to equalise two minutes from added time. Cutting in to her left foot from the right side, her shot was saved by the outstretched Franch. This result saw the Current leapfrog OL Reign into fifth place and condemn them to their first defeat in five games.
The NWSL takes a break this coming weekend but teams expect a large cohort of international players to return from national team duty and it will be interesting to see just how they manage the return of regular starts.
impetusfootball.org 