Tom Freeman previews this weekend’s action in the third and fourth tiers of Scottish Women’s Football (3/9/22).
Above: Jemma McQuillan hits Rossvale’s first goal in their win at Dryburgh last weekend. Photo: Ger Harley/Sportspix.
The lack of SWPL action this weekend allows the spotlight of women’s football in Scotland to fall on the Championship and League One.
The highly competitive leagues run by Scottish Women’s Football are playing their fourth week of ties, with Livingston unbeaten at the top of the eight-team Championship with seven points travelling to Petershill to face Glasgow club Rossvale, who are just a point behind. Also on six points are Edinburgh’s Hutchison Vale, who host Dundee club Dryburgh Athletic in Wester Hailes, and Renfrew Ladies who are visiting Ayr United in Cumnock.
Inverness Caledonian Thistle will host Morton on Sunday with both sides looking to build on their three-point tally.
All eight teams are aiming for promotion, with the Championship winner gaining an automatic SWPL place at the end of the season, and the second-placed team also entering into a playoff.
Above: Livingston (amber) are unbeaten in the SWF Championship so far. Photo: Joe Patterson.
Falkirk’s victory in their local derby with Stenhousemuir last weekend has put them in pole position in the Women’s League One, and on Sunday they travel to face Paisley club Gleniffer Thistle, who are still looking for their first points of the campaign.
Also unbeaten in League One are Westdyke, who will host newcomers Giffnock to the northeast, and FC Edinburgh, who welcome Airdrie Ladies to Meadowbank. Grampian Ladies, who have scored 12 goals in their last two games will welcome Dundee West to the Bank of Dee.
Elsewhere, BSC Glasgow will be looking to pick up their first points of the season at home to St Mirren and Stenhousemuir play Edinburgh Caledonia at Ochilview.
Commenting, Scottish Women’s Football CEO Aileen Campbell said: “There are no SWPL games being played this weekend because of the international break, but there is plenty of quality, competitive women’s football happening across the country. Whether you are in the Highlands, the Northeast, Ayrshire or Central Scotland, everyone has the opportunity to get along to support their local girls in action.
“Even if there is no Championship or League One action near you, we also have our Biffa SWFL regional leagues and the Highlands and Islands league, providing opportunities for women and girls to play and get involved all across the country. If you are interested in watching a game, check out all the fixtures on the Scottish Women’s Football website.”
Above: Jayden Simmons of underbeaten League One side FC Edinburgh, who face Airdrie this weekend. Photo: Ger Harley/Sportspix
Above: Celebrations for AFC Wimbledon at Ashford Town on Thursday night. Photo: Glyn Roberts.
AFC Wimbledon bounced back to winning form in style on Thursday night with Ashlee Hincks striking a superb hat-trick in a 4-1 win at newly promoted Ashford Town (Middx) in the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East.
The victory was achieved without captain Hannah Billingham, Emily Donovan, and Amy Taylor, but young talent Remmi Gardner stepped up impressively as she marked her first-team elevation by scoring with a lovely lob.
Aiming to make amends after Sunday’s disappointing 1-0 defeat to QPR, things certainly didn’t go to plan initially as Ashford took the lead inside 10 minutes as the home side’s dangerous striker Ashley Cheatley took advantage of a defensive mix up to put her team ahead.
The reaction that followed from the Dons was exactly what was required in the circumstances though as Ashford keeper Sophie Shults was required to make several fine saves. The woodwork was then rattled by Ashlee Hincks, who also came close to levelling the scores with a free-kick from range that went just wide.
It was starting to look like another frustrating match for the Dons, but then came that moment of brilliance from Remmi Gardner, who struck a lob from outside the penalty area that left Shults with no chance.
The second-half continued with more Dons pressure, but patience was required to gain the upper hand. With 15 minutes remaining, Ashlee Hincks bundled the ball in from close range to get her first of the season and that opened the floodgates. Two more from last season’s top scorer completed a quick-fire hat-trick, sending a warning to the rest of the league in the process.
Manager Kevin Foster said: “Unlike Sunday when we couldn’t get that breakthrough goal, we got it today, and it calmed us down, helping us to start finding the back of the net again.”
Remmi Gardner added: “I felt that we started off well, but getting the goal gave us the momentum to go and get the next three goals. I thought it was a good battle.”
With Wimbledon’s next scheduled fixture at Hounslow on Sunday having been postponed, Kevin Foster’s side have to wait until Sunday 11 September to be back in action with a game at Cheltenham Town in the FAWNL Plate.
Five Talents You Should Watch Out For From The U-20 World Cup
by Emmanuel Faith (2/9/22)
Above: The new U20 World Champions, Spain. Artwork: FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
Although the FIFA under-20 World Cup wrapped up on Monday, a lot of football fans are still basking in the array of exhilarating moments of the tournament.
From Spain scoring three goals in 27 minutes, to Brazilians singing for and wrapping the player of the tournament Maika Hamano in a warm embrace, and Tarciane scoring a bicycle kick to put her team ahead against Dutch after losing a penalty, monumental moments like this would live in our hearts forever.
FIFA Under-20 World Cups have produced players that later went on to shine for their countries and this year’s edition is no exception. Having witnessed amazing talents like Christine Sinclair of Canada in 2002, Marta of Brazil in 2004, Alexandra Popp of Germany in 2010, and the Nigerian whiz Asisat Oshoala in 2014. Costa Rica has shone the lights on another amazing set of talents and below are a few you should watch out for.
1. Tarciane Karen: The Brazilian defender and captain was one of the most outstanding players of the tournament. Besides scoring three important goals and shouldering the responsibility of being the team’s designated penalty taker, her leadership qualities marshalled the Brazilian defence while contributing to the attack with her pace when and tackles when required. Little wonder the Brazilian coach Pia Sundhage mentioned in an interview that she would be glad to give her a trial time with the senior national team.
2. Inma Gabarro: How do you know a player who is going to be the football rockstar in the next couple of months? By her impressive goal-scoring abilities. Scoring eight goals in six matches was more than enough for the Sevilla attacking midfielder to pick up the golden boot and if she continues with this form, the Spanish senior team can be assured of another top-tier talent in a few years. Who knows, she might even be part of the team travelling to Australia and New Zealand.
Above: Maika Hamano (left), Inma Gabarro (centre), and Yuzuki Yamammoto (right) pose with the silver, golden, and bronze boots. Photo: FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
3. Imuran Abiola: Despite the quarter-final exit of the African starlets at the competition, the Nigerian team were one of the dazzling teams and the 18-year-old defender was one of the stars who glistened with resplendence. Apart from her incisive contributions to the attack, providing two assists during the process, her defensive contribution in the first two matches, positioned her as one of the stars to watch out for in the nearest future. It isn’t surprising she has been called up to the Super Falcons for their friendly against the reigning World champions, the United States.
4. Maika Hamano: She plays with grace, poise, and flair. Winning the golden ball award was a deserving consolation for the Japanese striker whose immense contribution kept the Asian heroines going. While a lot of Asians haven’t been in the spotlight in Europe and WSL, we have seen the likes of Ji So-Yun and Sam Kerr of Chelsea, Iwabuchi of Arsenal, Saki Kumagai of Bayern Munich engrave their name in the frame of modern football. Hamano might be following their footsteps soon, especially if she makes it to the FIFA World Cup next year or the Olympics in 2024.
5. Yaya: The Brazilians were a handful in the tournament and the lanky midfield maestro was one of the spotlights of the young Selecaos. The way she dazzles the ball reminds you of prime Marta, or Ronaldinho, and who knows, she might be playing in the NWSL or Europe in the nearest future.
Above: The Brazilian rockstars; Yaya and Tarciane celebrate a goal. Photo: FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
There are also astounding talents like the dazzling Dutch midfielder Liz Rijsbergen, the Nigerian midfield engine Esther Onyenezide, the Spanish forward; Slama Paralluelo among others.
The world is waiting for these talents and we can’t wait to see how far they would go. Which other amazing youngster caught your attention? Please comment below.
Impetus’ Kris Goman heard from Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson in his Brisbane media conference ahead of tomorrow’s first of two friendlies with Canada (2/9/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson speaking to the media earlier today. Image: Football Australia.
The Matildas are back in Australia after their northern hemisphere summer break to play reigning Olympic Champions Canada.
With less than a year until the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, a very mixed bag of results since taking over means that the pressure is really now on head coach Tony Gustavsson to pull some tricks out the bag and get some consistent runs on the board.
The headline news of today’s media conference though is that Gustavsson has moved to Australia as of last Tuesday and is looking for a home to live in in the run-up to the World Cup. That will be a big change and give him the opportunity to have a good look at and work with the A-League players as well as the established Matildas. There’s been some criticism of Gustavsson living in Sweden so this is proof of the commitment and should quieten some of the dissent. He says it feels fantastic to finally, officially be in Australia.
Adaptable change is what it’s all about as many players from the Olympic team are not available for this series against Canada – tomorrow at least. Obviously, Ellie Carpenter is out and Hayley Raso has not come over for this camp. Kyah Simon is also out with injury and it’s just been reported that Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Mackenzie Arnold, and Tameka Yallop also won’t be available. Cortnee Vine is in doubt but will be assessed tonight for a soft tissue issue. Chloe Logarzo is not quite ready yet. “It’s going to test the investment in the depth of the roster”.
Sam Kerr will be playing and bringing her unique leadership to the matches. Gustavsson believes she’s a winner and says he loves working with her. Despite winning big awards, he reports that she doesn’t get complacent and is never satisfied, and always wants more. She continues to work on her finishing technique and that’s going great.
The Matildas head coach feels that Canada are a great defensive team and also very strong on the break. Australia really felt that in the Olympics, they should have been in the final against Canada and now they have the chance to play that game.
Above: Canada head coach Bev Priestman speaking to the media today. Image: Football Australia
It will be quite a different Canadian team too though as defensive stalwart Olympic champions Ashley Lawrence, Vanessa Gilles, and Deanne Rose are all out for these matches. Canada head coach Bev Priestman will be trialing a few newbies herself.
Gustavsson believes his team’s strength currently is with Katrina Gorry who has come back from having her baby and playing the best football of her career. “We want to dominate and penetrate in the middle of the park and Gorry is the final piece of the puzzle in that number six role.”
When asked directly if he thinks we can win the World Cup, Gustavsson described what they are up against. The upcoming year has five FIFA windows giving the team 46 days available together, 10 of those days will be travel days leaving only 36 days. There’ll be 11 games and pre-game sessions leaving only 10 proper training sessions.
“It’s around the corner and every minute counts.” They need to control the controllables and “want to inspire” and “will leave their heart out there.” They are going to be very aggressive and want to concede less goals. But they have to understand the difference between expectations and belief and they believe they can achieve more.
Gustavsson wants to see what he saw against Brazil and what he saw in the first half against USWNT and against NZ. “Things were working there”. He felt that his squad were pressing well, and brilliant in set plays. The challenge now is to see this in longer spurts and keep the tempo high.
The Matildas play Canada on Saturday 3rd September. Kick-off is 2.45pm AEST in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium. In Australia, the game will be shown live on Ten Bold and Ten Play. Overseas viewers could view the match on Football Australia’s YouTube channel depending on location. Tickets are still available.
Above: Sam Kerr in training today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Ann Odong/Football Australia.
Impetus’ Kieran Yap speaks exclusively to Alana Jancevski who is heading into NPLW Victoria Finals action with Bulleen Lions this weekend about the club’s season, what she learned at Perth Glory last season, and how she’s looking forward to going back West(1/9/22). Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
Above: Alert and in deadly form – Alana Jancevski. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
Alana Jancevski has the ball on the halfway line. She is up against the touchline on the left wing, and if you are a goalkeeper that is where you would prefer her to be.
Between the Bulleen Lions striker and the goal are four defenders. There looks to be little danger for Box Hill United, but Jancevski sees it differently.
After a short burst of pace, she curls a long ball simultaneously behind and around the centre backs. It lands perfectly into the path of Lia Privitelli who scores with a delicate chip.
The finish was brilliant, but the pass defied physics.
It was just one of four assists for Jancevski that day, and just one game in a season that has elevated her into one of the Victorian NPL’s most exciting players.
“To be a striker and not score, but get four assists is quite bizarre,” she said to Impetus.
I keep saying that Alana Jancevski is going to win goal of the season at some point.
“I think it’s a proud moment of mine because it showed I can help my team in a different way. I think that’s the best one I’ve ever done,” she says of that assist.
“It’s really special, because your teammates get around you, but nothing beats a 30-yard screamer.”
Alana Jancevski is known for her prodigious and powerful left boot. It was that ability to strike a ball that delivered a stunning goal for the Junior Matildas in 2018. In her first full season in the A-League Women it took only two games for her to score for Perth Glory with a match-winning volley.
After months on the road with Alex Epakis’s impressive side, Jancevski returned to Bulleen for the NPLW season and has been crucial to their climb to a third-place finish.
Being back at home, both in Melbourne and at the Veneto Club is something that the 19-year-old has enjoyed.
“You make a big commitment to move away from home and put yourself through an enjoyable but tough season, so being around family was a major thing. Seeing friends and playing with teammates again that you’ve played with since you were younger, that has been really fun.
“Also getting to play with players like Rebekah Stott is always enjoyable, and you learn off those sorts of players, so I think those are the main things that I’ve really enjoyed about being home.”
Jancevski’s last season at Bulleen was cut short by the pandemic. Before play was suspended in 2021, she had scored eight times in 10 league games. It was more than enough to earn her a contract in the A-League Women, but it was a frustrating way to end the season.
Above: One of the most talented Australian players of her generation – Alana Jancevski. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
“Last year, as a group was disappointing for us. I think we were dominating last season. I was playing really well and in form, for us to not be able to finish the season off was really disappointing. I think that has fuelled us for this season.
“Yes there has been some ups and downs and some personnel changes, but the same fire and team culture is still there. We really want to push for the title this year. To make finals is an amazing achievement and as a group, we’re really proud of that. It has been a tough year as well.
“We’ve had some ups and downs. We’ve lost some players to international duty and amazing achievements like Stotty going to Brighton and Hove Albion and TJ (Vlajnic) going to Champions League and Paige (Zois) playing with the Young Matildas. To know you have those quality players in your side is exciting.
“But on the downside, it is hard when they’re not there because you have lost a lot of the senior bulk. It can be tough to play against team who have still go all their players with them. In saying that, it has allowed a lot of our young players to shine. You see players like Rosie Rodger, and Aroha Little who has been playing really well.
‘We’ve had a lot of debuts and other youngsters coming through as well which you have to look at and be proud of. That we’ve come third with sometimes four or five players missing is showing the culture and resilience that we have. It’s a major strength of ours and that culture can allow us to go all the way this year.”
Jancevski is an explosive player, but she was eased into this season by manager Caitlin Friend. Early rounds saw her come off the bench, and once she regained full match fitness it has been a near-constant series of matchday highlights.
“The slow start was a real challenge for me,” says Jancevski. “There was a game where I felt back into my mojo and that was the Nike FC Cup game against FV Emerging.
“I came on at half time and I just had this real hunger, and I felt alive in that game. To get a goal and assist in the second half to get us into extra time and win on penalties. That game was just a little spark.”
Above: Alana Jancevski in action against Finals opponents Heidelberg United earlier in the season. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
Jancevski has scored 11 times in all competitions for Bulleen in 2022. She has also added seven assists. It is a run of form that was helped by her time at Glory and one that she hopes to carry into the next A-League season.
“I think my confidence has been soaring and to be able to help my team score and win games is everything you want as a forward. I feel privileged to be in a team where I can do that and I think with the ALW season coming up I’m really excited to cement my spot and really show my capabilities and be able to score and assist at a higher level.”
Jancevski is ruthless in front of goal, but like the great entertainers of the game, her near misses are sometimes as spectacular as her successes. In round 11 she scored twice in a win over Bayside, but an attempt from near halfway almost caught the keeper by surprise.
Her teammates and coach give her the confidence to try the spectacular. Both at Bulleen and Perth Glory.
“It’s something that I’ve always liked. Tash Rigby refers to the pitch as my playground, that’s such an amazing compliment and I think it touches on how I like to play. I like to try little things, and shots from long range.
“I can always try to turn a game, and that’s something my teammates appreciate. Caitlin encourages me to try these things as long as there’s not a player free around or it’s the wrong decision.”
Although she has thrived back at Bulleen. Her first season at Perth Glory was something she embraced. Jancevski feels that she came back to the NPLW as an improved player.
“It surpassed my expectations. My first season at Glory is something that I’ll never forget. The main takeaways were the friendships and the family culture that I had with the Perth girls, the staff, and everyone there.
Above: Alana Jancevski celebrates after scoring her late goal for Perth Glory at Brisbane Roar in the opening weeks of the last A-League Women season. Photo: Perth Glory.
“What we have is truly special and from that to come from one season. I can’t wait to be there again this season and build on that. On a personal note, my favourite moments would have to be my debut game and my first goal in the second game.
“That debut game was just something really special. To play in front of a packed small ground, the way we won. And to play at the Macedonian complex was really special as well.
“Getting my first goal was something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid. As a forward you want to score and being able to get the game-winner in the 86th minute and the way we did it away from home is something I’ll always cherish.
“The experiences I got from the A-League Women environment was something that has elevated my game to a whole new level. Being around more senior players, professional players, you know what’s expected of you. At Bulleen this year I’ve tried to use my experiences to help everyone out. I love to help in any way possible.
“The better players you’re around and play with, you’re going to elevate to higher levels. I’m always playing with confidence, and I really have backed my abilities this season. I think that’s showing in my performances.”
Alana Jancevski has come a long way in a very short time. It was many years ago that she was using that deadly left foot to boot a ball around the house with her brother, to the detriment of the household’s doorframes and vases.
Now she is one of the A-League’s rising stars and may be the key to Bulleen’s chances against Heidelberg United.
Bulleen Lions have a number of potential game changers, Lia Privitelli has been in fine form, and Aroha Little scored one of the goals of the season. Paige Zois is capable of moments of magic, and Jancevski has the ability to score at any moment, from almost any angle or distance.
Heidelberg has a strong record against Bulleen so far, with three wins from as many meetings this season. But Jancevski is not perturbed by this, she was among the best afield in the Round 21 clash and netted a penalty in confident style.
“We might have lost the last three against them, but the fourth game is the one that’s going to count,” she says.
“Who doesn’t love to be an underdog going into a game? As a team we’re ready to go.”
Impetus brings you all the news from the two club’s signing announcements today, including the views of the players and coaches(1/9/22).
Above: Clare Hunt – her return for Western Sydney Wanderers is a huge boost ahead of the new season. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers.
Western Sydney Wanderers today announced the re-signing of defender Clare Hunt for the upcoming Liberty A-League season.
Hunt joined the Red & Black at the start of last season from Canberra United and quickly became an integral part of the Wanderers defence.
Despite her season being cut short due to an unfortunate injury, Hunt earned plaudits for her performances and was named the Wanderers Medal winner for 2021, and was named on the bench in the PFA’s Team of the Season.
Returning back now for her second season in Western Sydney, Hunt is ready to pick up where she left off.
“Despite the challenges presented last season, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the club. I was given the opportunity and support to continuously develop over the course of the season and this allowed some consistent game time and performances. I am looking forward to continuing this in the 2022/23 Liberty A-League season,” said Hunt.
“It was a privilege to represent the club and to be recognised for my contribution to the last season through the Wanderers Medal. I am excited to build on this form and continue to push myself, and others, within this environment.
“I am hoping to build and be part of a cohesive and successful team environment, that thrives off hard work, resilience and a winning mentality. With this as a building block, there is every potential to be a Finals team and find further success at that point in the season.
“I am extremely grateful to be in a position where I can support and guide my teammates, whilst also learn and develop in their presence. I will continue to strive for excellence and success within this environment, and also encourage others to do so.
“I am excited to start preparing for the upcoming season with my teammates and staff.”
Artwork: Western United
Western United’s defensive stocks in the Liberty A-League Women have been boosted with the Club securing young Victorians Alyssa Dall’Oste and Natasha Dakic ahead of its inaugural campaign.
With Dall’Oste in goal and Dakic in front of her marshalling the back four, Calder United conceded just seven goals in 21 regular season games in NPLW Victoria this season – the best defensive record the competition has ever seen.
After winning the NPLW Goalkeeper of the Year award as a 17-year-old in 2018, Dall’Oste joined Calder United in 2019 and helped the side to a Premiership, Championship, and NIKE F.C. Cup treble.
Dakic moved to Calder a year later and has won two NIKE F.C. Cups and added the NPLW Victoria Premiership this year, shining with her reading of the game and poise at the back.
“It’s an incredible feeling (to sign). It’s something that I’ve continued to work hard towards and to think that the opportunity has come is quite surreal. I’m honoured and excited to be sharing a piece of history as well as this new chapter in my footballing journey,” Dakic said.
“It is an honour to be part of Western United’s inaugural squad, I am so proud to be able to represent such an important part of Western United’s history. The culture that has already been created within the Club is like no other and I’m excited to start this journey,” Dall’Oste added.
Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso has seen both players work hard to elevate their game in NPLW and earn this opportunity.
“Alyssa and Tash both came to Calder with the goal to push for a spot in the A-League Women, and I’m really pleased to reward them for their hard work now,” he said.
“Alyssa has made some phenomenal saves in big games throughout the year and Tash has been one of the standout defenders in the competition with her composure and quality on and off the ball.
“I’m really excited to see them both make the step up to the A-League Women and I look forward to seeing them both continue to work hard and develop their game.”
Both players are set to enter the NPLW Victoria Finals with Calder United and will join their new Western United teammates for the beginning of pre-season in October.
Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Tameka Yallop in Australia’s Queensland training camp ahead of the first of their two friendlies against Canada (1/9/22).
Above: Tameka Yallop speaking from the Matildas training camp earlier today. Image: Football Australia.
The Matildas were back at Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre this morning for a second full team session ahead of their clash with Canada this Saturday afternoon.
For midfielder Tameka Yallop, and many of the Queensland-raised team members, the venue brought back some familiar memories.
“I was reminiscing when we drove around the ring road and all the memories came flooding back,” Yallop said. “It’s great to be back here and back in Australia.”
Above: Kyra Cooney-Cross in action during today’s training session. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Ann Odong/Football Australia.
“Today was a good session. It’s great to have the girls all in together and it was a good vibe. We’ve been focusing on defence and attack.”
Yallop touched on the fact that she’s played in so many different positions for the national team, and hinted that she’s been experiencing something a bit different again today.
“Yeah, mostly I’ve been used in an attacking sense, but today I was more in the backline, but I relish it, I like learning new things. I don’t know what makes me so versatile, but it has helped me in my game. Learning the new positions helps me to connect with other players on the pitch – where everyone else would be.
“Obviously, we take it game by game so the first one [against Canada] is most important. It feels like time’s going fast now and to have matches like this, to really narrow down the details and focus on the finer things is really important.”
“We’ve got great focus here within the group so these games will be really good for us heading into the World Cup.”
Above: Charli Grant (centre) and Teagan Micah (right) share a joke with Katrina Gorry at training today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Ann Odong/Football Australia.
In the latest part of our WA On Wednesday series, Fremantle City‘s Tash Rigby, who also captains A-League Women side Perth Glory, speaks to Ben Gilby about Freo’s season ahead of her team’s Top Four Cup semi-final against Hyundai NTC on Friday (30/8/22).
Above: Tash Rigby in possession for Fremantle City this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
Speaking just days before Fremantle City’s NPLW WA Top Four Cup semi-final game against Hyundai NTC, Tash Rigby feels her teammates are in a good place going into their Finals campaign.
“We seem to be peaking towards the end of our season which is really positive and it feels like we have found our groove!” she said with that trademark smile.
Above: Tash Rigby striding away for Fremantle City at Hyundai NTC on Sunday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
“As a collective, we have had a tough season, with injuries, sickness, and other variables affecting our ability to field a consistent team. This has resulted in inconsistencies in our performance across the season.”
The campaign has also had challenges on a personal level for Rigby after she suffered an MCL tear that kept her out of action for eight weeks.
“I am almost back to full strength and fitness now which is great timing! I have really enjoyed playing more of an attacking role as a wingback as well this season, it has helped me develop a new side of my game.”
That role has seen Rigby flying up the flanks on a regular basis this season and becoming just as integral part of Fremantle’s attack as their defence.
Above: Tash Rigby has been seen as much as a wingback for Fremantle City this season as she has in her traditional defensive position. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
The port city side began their run-in to the end of the regular season with tough battles against the eventual top two Perth RedStar and Perth SC, but the last three matches against Top Four Cup rivals saw the club end their campaign on a high.
“The performances against Murdoch, Balcatta, and NTC have been a great showcase of our potential and what we are capable of when we gel, it is also an example of our resilience and grit. Over the last few weeks, have been quite clinical in front of goal which is exciting.”
There has been a lot of discussion about the standard of the NPLW WA this season with a number of locally produced players going across to play in the eastern states. Rigby feels that this is just one of a number of barriers that the competition has had to overcome.
“In my opinion, although I was only a spectator during last season, I think that the quality of the league has taken a step backwards in comparison to last year. I think a lot of teams have struggled with injuries and COVID interruptions. I think also losing a few top-quality players and young stars to the eastern states has contributed to this as well.”
Above: Battling away – Tash Rigby in action for Fremantle City against fellow Top Four Cup qualifiers Perth SC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
The reasons for the player losses are many, but the fact remains that in order for the NPLW WA to maintain an upward trajectory, its best players need to remain in Western Australia.
With the topic of where players decide to pursue their career such a large and wide-ranging one, worthy of a feature all of its own, the conversation returned to the more immediate matter at hand – this weekend’s commencement of the NPLW WA Top Four Cup. Rigby reflected on the qualities of Fremantle City’s fellow qualifiers – Perth RedStar, Perth SC, and Hyundai NTC.
“All the teams in the finals demand a lot of respect and we will just be looking to play our own game and harness our strengths by utilising our attacking players like Mikayla Lyons, Jamie-Lee Gale, and Jess Darmago. Laura Waltman is in expectational form so it is awesome to know the backline is in excellent hands.
“We need to ensure that are strong defensively, we need to take our chances, be clinical in front of goal and play with heart, grit, and determination.
Impetus will be covering all of the NPLW WA Top Four Cup matches in detail with reports every Monday and player/coach interviews in our WA On Wednesday series.
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPLWomen’s competition along with photos (31/8/22).
Above: South Melbourne (white) look to get away during their final game of the season at Box Hill United. Photo: Passion Creations.
The Senior NTC Side Emerge As Surprise Title Contenders
The Victorian NPLW has been thrilling from the first round this season, and the final round was no exception despite the top three positions already being decided.
Alamein and FV Emerging both went into Round 21 with fourth place up for grabs, and the challenge for each club could not be more different.
Alamein faced CalderUnited, the newly crowned premiers. Mark Torcaso’s side has been a winning machine in 2022, and deserved to finish in top place. Kat Smith’s Alamein, needed to win to leapfrog FV Emerging into fourth, and even though Calder had nothing to play for, they are still the best side in the competition, and players are fighting for spots in the lineup for the finals.
FV Emerging started the round in fourth and only needed to match Alamein’s result in order to hold onto that position. They faced bottom-placed Bayside United.
Alamein’s hopes took a hit in the 70th minute of a tightly contested match. Raquel Derales turned in a goal for Calder after a cross from the right was hit back across goal.
They hit back soon after in the 78th minute through Elaina Vatcky who sped behind the defence and flicked a classy finish into the net with a single touch.
Above: South Melbourne in possession at Box Hill United at the weekend. Photo: Passion Creations.
Calder were in no mood do to a potential grad final opponent any favours however, and continued to play with intensity. Alamein’s heads did not bow, as they continued to attack, but could not find the winning goal. Their season came to a close in heartbreaking fashion after being in the top four for much of the year.
The day belonged to FV Emerging. The development side made up of some of Victoria’s most promising young players has surged into fourth after winning four of their last five matches.
Mila Bulic opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, but Sofia Galetti equalized for Bayside United who were keen to end a disappointing season on a high.
As far as FV Emerging knew, they needed a win to play finals. And as the clock ticked towards full time they would have been forgiven for showing some nerves. In a remarkable display of game-day maturity and talent, they remained composed and scored a late winner through Silverbell Morris.
It was a back post header from a set piece in the 89th minute. Morris had one chance to guarantee finals for her team and buried the header after a well-timed leap. In a season filled with incredible highlights, this will not be the goal of the year, but is a definitely contender for the best moment.
FV Emerging secured a finals place that might have felt improbable months before. They face Calder United in the first final and will go in as underdogs but will not be lacking in confidence as they ride the wave of their impressive season.
Above: Box Hill United’s goalkeeper Erin Hudson makes a stunning save against South Melbourne. Photo: Passion Creations.
Elsewhere, it was a goal fest. South Melbourne and Box Hill United played out a 4-3 game with South claiming the victory.
Melinda Barbieri scored twice for Box Hill as they looked to recover from being 3-0 down at halftime. The first was a terrific long-range effort in the 72nd minute. Sofia Sakalis played her into space on the left and Barbieri cut inside and fired a rocket into the net on her right boot. She scored her second deep into injury time but as brave as the comeback was, it was too late.
South Melbourne secured the win through Janna Lawson’s brace and goals from new Western United signing Francesca Iermano, with Georgia Kandilas’ 73rd-minute strike proving decisive.
In a preview of the first final, second-placed Heidelberg United played Bulleen Lions. Neither side had anything to gainin this encounter except a possible mental edge. Both coaches would have been keen to try out tactics or options before they meet in the semi final, and the result was an entertaining 3-2 win to the Bergers.
Heidelberg went into halftime 2-1 up, strikes from Stephanie Galea and Kathryn Vlahopoulos had them in control despite conceding through an unlucky own goal.
Lia Privitelli’s persistence and good bodywork earned a penalty kick which Alana Jancevski easily converted in the 65th minute to level the scores.
Above: Box Hill United and South Melbourne battle for possession. Photo: Passion Creations.
She hit it emphatically for her 11th goal this season and second penalty. Melissa Maizels was sent the wrong way but the shot was powerful enough that it would have made little difference.
Emily Roach scored the winner for Heidelberg to make it three wins for the league runners-up from three meetings with Bulleen this season. But the match ended with some concern on both benches as Alessia Tevere and Isabella Wallhead both ended the game off the field from knocks to the face.
They will meet again in a few days to fight for a spot in the final.
The home and away season ends with Calder United as premiers and favourites to win the finals series. It has been a remarkable, consistent, and relentless campaign by Mark Torcaso’s team.
Calder United did not have the usual big names that have adorned their roster in previous seasons. But they trusted in their youth development and promoted players to the senior roster. They looked a skillful team individually and an extremely cohesive unit throughout.
Calder have scored the most goals and conceded the least. Not one of their players is anywhere near Golden Boot contention, instead, they have threats all over the pitch and a confidence that appeared unshakeable.
Above: South Melbourne look to get away against Box Hill United. Photo: Passion Creations.
Heidelberg will be disappointed with second, but will back themselves in the finals. They are the only side to defeat Calder United this season. Danielle Wise and Galea have been phenomenally consistent in front of goal. Melissa Maizel’s looked impassable in some games, they have gifted fans a terrific home and away season and a thrilling title race.
As for the finals, FV Emerging and Bulleen will go in as underdogs against Calder and Heidelberg. But they do have the talent to win a knockout game. As South Melbourne’s epic run to the Nike Fc Cup final showed, anything can happen on the day, and both sides are stacked with talent that can turn a match.
It has been an amazing NPLW season in Victoria, and we still have finals to look forward to.
Above: Celebrations after Megan Todd scored from the spot for Norwich City. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos.
Norwich City produced a performance of class and cutting edge to thrash local rivals Wymondham Town in the East Anglian Derby as Shaun Howes’ side continued their 100% win rate at the start of the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East season.
A hat trick from Natasha Snelling plus Olivia Cook, Rebecca Russell, and penalties from Megan Todd and Katie Knights saw the Canaries storm to a 7-0 victory.
The game played at the headquarters of Norfolk County FA on the stunning 3G facility at the FDC in Bowthorpe in front of a wonderful crowd of 435 saw the two best teams in Norfolk go head to head but the Canaries were streets ahead on the evening.
Sensational Snelling
Is there a player on better form in the country at the moment than Natasha Snelling of Norwich City? Two hat tricks in her opening three games of the season have got her campaign off to a flyer. The first at The Abbey Stadium on the season’s opening day and Snelling took this huge local derby in her stride notching another hat-trick.
Scoring Norwich City’s second, third and fifth goals on the evening, Snelling had a beaming smile after every strike and it is pleasing to see someone who had given so much to Norwich City Women in her life getting some great success. Six goals in three games with her side sitting top of the league will mean so much to the club but especially Snelling who has been with the Canaries through so many ups and downs.
Happy Howes
Above: Norwich City players and staff together last night. Photo: Norwich City Women.
What a night for Norwich City manager Shaun Howes, he took the whole evening in his stride, speaking to fans before and after the game and managing the team in his ever-popular cool, calm, and collected way with positivity at the forefront of everything he does.
Howes was buzzing as he left the field and remained out on the pitch for nearly 20 minutes after the final whistle engaging with supporters. To his credit, through the dark times, he kept telling everyone things would turn out positive and we are now starting to see the fruits of his labour really coming to the fore.
Reliable Russell
Rebecca Russell is best known as a free kick specialist in Norfolk women’s football having scored many for Wymondham Town last season and now with Norwich City hopes were high for more and she has already delivered.
Following Sunday’s outrageous strike to send Actonians back off packing to London empty-handed, she stepped up 17 minutes from time and caught Yaz Walford out in the Wymondham goal curling a beautiful free kick into the near post for the sixth goal of the night. When you need to capitalise on your set pieces, Russell is the player to have in your ranks. There will be plenty more to come.
Above: Megan Todd converts from the spot for Norwich City against Wymondham Town. Photo: Hardy Scott Photos.
Knights Rounds Off The Night
A big occasion in Norfolk women’s football is not complete at the moment without a contribution from Katie Knights.
Another player Norwich captured from Wymondham in the summer thought she was going to miss out on the scoring last night until the 14th minute of stoppage time, following an injury to Wymondham Town’s Natasha Youngs.
The last act of the game saw Norwich City awarded a penalty and Knights dispatched it emphatically to round off the scoring and celebrated wildly in front of her adoring friends who were gathered on the side of the pitch.
Important For Wymondham To Keep Calm
A tough few days for Wymondham, losing 10-0 at title favourites Hashtag United on Sunday before getting thumped 7-0 by Norwich City in their home local derby last night.
It is important to recognise that these are not fixtures that will define Wymondham’s season. Greater assignments of importance lie ahead with two matches against both Cambridge United and Cambridge City where they will be desperate to pick up the required points in order to survive.
It’s important for them to keep calm and with Rod Dyer at the helm that’s exactly what will happen.
Above: Norwich City celebrate Olivia Cook’s goal. Photo: Norwich City Women.
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