Young Matilda Milly Boughton goes Pro at Scottish Champions Hibs

By Kieran Yap & Gethin Thurlow (4/9/25)

Above: Boughton unveiled at Hibs’ Easter Road stadium Photo: hibernianfc.co.uk

As she signs her first professional contract, Australia and UK editors Kieran Yap and Gethin Thurlow combine to look at what Boughton can bring to Hibernian, and the role she could play.

Milly Broughton has been almost a mainstay in the Young Matildas setup since her inclusion for the 2024 Asian Cup.

The former Tottenham and Arsenal youth team product is a versatile, dangerous forward who can play anywhere across a front three. Broughton is a composed finisher, a natural forward who’s positioning and speed around the penalty box can help her make the most of chances.

While Broughton has shown a lot of promise and is not short of determination, she has limited experience at senior club level. Regular competitive football is now an essential step in her development.

This is something Hibernian can give her. While the SWPL is a good, competitive level, it is an easier jump from U-21’s level than going straight up to the WSL is.

Despite Boughton’s attacking exploits, Hibs named the Aussie as a midfielder when introducing her. This does make sense given the gap in the team since attacking midfielder Michaela McAlonie departed for Southampton.

Within the 4-2-3-1 system employed by Hibs, that number 10 role is more connected to the front three than with the two defensive midfielders behind, so Boughton’s skills would still be useful in that position.

Young attacking forwards have been pretty much the only thing targeted in the transfer window by Grant Scott, so she could also be seen as added competition/depth to those attacking areas alongside fellow youngsters Tiree Burchill and Hannah Jordan.

Celtic were absolutely decimated by their Champions League qualification last year, so Hibs will be clearly aiming to avoid this. While their Champions league dream is over, the Europa Cup still presents as many midweek games as long as they keep progressing, so being able to rotate and manage the workload of those attacking players will be crucial.

Whether we see Boughton on the wing or in the midfield, she will be adding the final ingredient – regular minutes, to her development. Her progress with Hibs is worth following for any Matilda fans as she will look to breakthrough even more at national level.

This is very much a mutually beneficial transfer. Boughton gets the playing time she needs, and Hibs get her talent, which they hope can help them to another SWPL title and to cause some upsets in the Europa Cup.

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Game Changers of the NPL Victoria Finals: Sofia Sakalis

By Kieran Yap 4/9/2025

Above: Sofia Sakalis during the ASEAN Championships with Australia U23’s Photo: Football Australia

Sofia Sakalis has had a year to remember and is hoping to add even more highlights. The Box Hill United attacker has been in dynamic form this season, that is nothing new. But she now has an ASEAN Cup winner medal with Australia’s U23’s and will be a key player in Box Hill United’s push for a Grand Final appearance.

A product of Box Hill’s youth system and an almost eight-year veteran of the A-League Women, Sakalis has been in career best form of late. Her ability to create chaos and panic in as defence with either a clever pass, or surging run have helped her childhood club to third place on the table and a meeting with Bulleen Lions on Saturday afternoon.

That form also earned the recognition of the national team setup and a call up to the U23 squad to travel to Vietnam.

That tournament win, the first by an Australian side since 2008, could be the ideal preparation for NPLW finals.

Close wins in the semi final against Vietnam and the 1-0 win over Myanmar in the final have reinforced an already fierce winning mentality.

“That feeling of the semi-final and then the final, it’s kind of do or die,” Sakalis said to Impetus.

 “I think that’s the kind of mentality that we’re going to need to have in the semi-final as well, so it’s definitely going to help me to, try and get the girls into that kind of mind set.

“Obviously Box Hill haven’t been in finals For a while, so it’s something that we’re going to really have to instil before the game, and make sure we just leave it all out there.”

Box Hill have always been fun to watch, but something has felt different this season. There is as ruthlessness to how they attack, and they have only lost five times this season.

This finals appearance has been hard earned but well deserved by a club that has trusted in local stars as well as attracted decisive recruits. Although the hard work is just beginning, Sakalis is proud of what her club had achieved so far.  

“I’ve been very invested in the growth of Box Hill over the years, and I feel like we’ve been creeping up each year, and we’ve been closer and closer, and now this season to finally making the finals feels so special.

“Especially for myself, being a junior of the club, and being there the last couple of seasons, and just think we’ve got the right mix this season with the players we’ve brought in, with the experience of player like ‘Mini’ Pollicina now, and our internationals have been fantastic, as well as our coaching staff.

“It’s just been a great mix, and it’s really exciting to be able to see what we can do now in the finals.”

Rhianna Pollcina and Sakalis are now in their second season together and it has been one of the most dangerous and entertaining partnerships in the NPLW. They have similar skillsets, but work in tandem to create chances for each other and their teammates.

“It’s been great playing with her,” Sakalis says of the Box Hill number 10.

“She’s probably one of the best players I’ve played with.

“Just the way she thinks, and obviously her experience and her expertise coming from that many seasons at Melbourne City as well.

“It’s also great to learn off her, but also just to be able to connect like that on the field and try and produce something that’s special and, help our team as well.

“It’s definitely been exciting, and I always look forward to playing with her.”

Although Pollicina and Sakalis have led the way alongside the likes of Josephine Aulicino, Box Hill’s rising stars have been valuable contributors to this benchmark season.

Teenagers Sienna Techera and Georgia Karaparides have both scored vital and spectacular goals, with Techera’s Round 22 effort a late contender for goal of the season.

“They’ve all been amazing,” Sakalis says of her teammates.

“I just feel like this season, we just have, like, the perfect mix of, that A-League experience and younger talents. I think Georgia has been fantastic. She’s a very raw talent. Same with Siena.

“They’re both great talents, and they’ve also been at Box Hill for a while, and also been part of, like, the junior ranks.

“So it kind of just shows as well what Box Hill has been able to produce.

“Then there’s Josie (Aulucino.)

“I think Katie (Cox) has been amazing too, so both of them have been pivotal, and they’ve obviously been there from the start of the season.

“It’s just been a great mix of players, and I think it’s exciting what we’ve achieved, and see what more we can do.”

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Preview: Is this the year Everton start to make a climb?

Above: Katja Snoeijs celebrates her goal that opened the scoring at Anfield in the second WSL Merseyside Derby of 2024/25. Photo: Everton FC.

By Alyce Collett (3/9/25)

In the past few years it has not always been easy to be an Everton fan. The Toffees have never been among the title contenders and have consistently been around the middle of the pack.

Season 2024/25 was another one of those types of seasons.

It was not an easy start to the season for the Toffees, only picking up three points from their first seven matches of the season and not picking up a win until the first Merseyside Derby of the season two months into the season.

But just after that match against Liverpool, a defining moment for the season came for the club.

After being in the works for months, the Fredkin Group completed their takeover of the club in mid December, finally giving some financial security to the club, and from a WSL perspective, it allowed coach Brian Sorenson to really attack the January transfer. And attack that window Everton certainly did, bringing in three players on loan deals (Martina Fernandez, Emma Watson and Louna Ribadeira) and three players in on permanent deals (Kelly Gago, Hayley Ladd and Maren Mjelde).

This could not have come at a better time for Everton, who at the time were down in 12th and very much in the relegation battle. They already had two players out for the season with ACL injuries, and this was before captain Megan Finnigan went down with an ACL injury of her own in late January.

As you take a look back at Everton’s stats from this season, the difference between before the take over and after the take over is quite obvious.

Although some stats did not change too much, the important ones when it comes to scoring – shots on target, saves and score – all improved significantly after Everton were able to bring in some more players.

The players used stat is an interesting one, because although the averages show one story, in reality it was completely different.

Before the takeover, Everton had a match day squad that was equal to or larger than their opponents’ one three out of the eight matches. After the takeover, that number rose to nine of the 14 matches.

This increase in financial stability has also allowed the Toffees to have a pretty productive summer transfer window too, locking down several of their January transfers – including Kelly Gago and Martina Fernandez – and bring in even more new faces, including English international Katie Robinson and Philippines international Maz Pacheco.

Above: Katie Robinson (left) and Maz Pacheco (right) were two of the bigger name signings of Everton’s busy summer signing period. Photo: via Everton FC

Another one of Everton’s inclusions in the summer transfer window was young star Ruby Mace, who moves north from Leicester City.

Everton coach Brian Sorenson spoke very highly of Mace ahead of the season getting underway, saying that “I think she has a great future in front of her and that’s also what we identified.

“Despite her age, she actually has a lot of experience in the WSL. I think she has the same amount of games as Grace Clinton, who has two years more in the league but Ruby already is in on a similar level…

“and she also wanted to come because we weren’t the only team who wanted Ruby me and she chose us because of the project and the playing style. She could see the potential in the team but also in her personal development.”

Above: Ruby Mace is one new face that has already drawn plenty of praise from Everton coach Brian Sorenson. Photo: via Everton FC

Although these are not the big names that some of the other teams have made, that is not a reason for Everton fans to not be excited about how the new season may go for their team.

As the back end of last season showed, having squad depth allowed cohesion in the Everton side to grow, and although there were only four wins from 12 matches, the losses were significantly tighter than they had been earlier in the year. For example, the first time Everton played Chelsea last season the score was 5-0 in Chelsea’s favour, whereas second time round the margin was only a single goal.

Now that they do have that solid foundation in terms of squad size, Sorenson said that one of the biggest goals for his team this season is ”having consistency and stability in the team because we haven’t had that for three years.

“I think for me, I don’t think the hardest thing is to get a good result at against the top four, potentially a top five with how London City is spending.

“So I think we can always make a plan, get everything right and then we can beat a City, or we can take a point from Arsenal and so on. But the harder thing is to be consistent against the teams around us – to win against Liverpool on the weekend, to win against Brighton, to win against Villa, Leicester, West Ham and so on.”

This weekend is a great chance for Everton to get their season off to the best start in a number of years. They have not won their opening weekend fixture in the WSL since they beat Bristol City on the opening weekend of the 2020/21 season, and this weekend sees Everton take on Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby, a team the Toffees have lost too since November 2019.

With all of this in mind, Everton will be an interesting side to watch this season. It will likely take some time for them to truly compete with the Arsenals and the Chelseas of the competition, but with a solid foundation in place to build on, there is no reason that Everton cannot be challenging around the fourth or fifth place mark on the WSL ladder.

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Game Changers of the NPL Victoria finals: Paige Zois

By Kieran Yap 3/9/25

Above: Paige Zois. Photo: Bulleen Lions

Paige Zois is back to her best. After a long term injury, the midfielder has bounced back with goals, assists and brought her famous passing range to full effect. Bulleen Lions are playing their best football at the right time of the season, and Zois in the centre has been a huge factor.

“Going through that whole injury process was really difficult,” Zois said to Impetus.

“I feel like I didn’t really understand how hard rehab a rehab process was.”

Zois was injured in a collision against Heidelberg United last season, which cut short her NPLW campaign and limited her availability with Melbourne Victory. After months on the sidelines she made her return in April to wide celebrations from fans.

It was a long road back, but in some ways, it makes playing finals football with Bulleen all the more rewarding.

“I think it’s kind of made me appreciate, where I am now, and made me appreciate how, exciting the opportunity to play in a semi-final is.”

From the outside, it has looked like she has not missed a beat. Zois’s familiar defence splitting passing and controlled midfield presence was a big factor in some of Bulleen’s tougher games this season. An outstanding gritty performance amid freezing, hailing conditions in the Nike FC Cup quarter final went hand in hand with a spectacular free kick to score  against FV Academy.

For Zois, it has been the result of a lot of hard work behind the scenes.  

“It’s taken me, like, I think since I was cleared at Victory until this last few weeks to really feel like I’m getting back into the groove of it.

“I think it’s taken me a bit, but, (Bulleen coach) Caitlin Friend has been really helpful, and all my teammates have been so great and supportive that it’s helped make it a lot easier.

“I think I’ve learned that, things just take time, and you have to stick it through and work through things, and it’ll eventually get there.

“But (I have) greater appreciation for everyone else who’s gone through a really difficult injury, because it’s not easy.”

Zois’s best form has coincided with Bulleen’s. Although the 2024 premiers have rarely been out of the top four this season, it has taken some time for them to really unlock the best on field combinations in a star studded but still young squad .

The return of Tiffany Eliadis, the growing stature of Nia Salleh and the explosiveness of Alana Cortellino and Danella Butrus on the wings have all been factors.

In midfield, the combination of Zois and Sarah Cain has looked like one of the league’s best duos.

“I played with her, I think, in NTC when we were super young, and she was a little bit older than me, so I kind of, like, looked up to her, even back then.

“I absolutely love playing with her. I think she could be, like, one of my favorite, midfield partnerships that I’ve had.

“We talk about, like, being on a rope together, because, I feel like she just, like, understands what I need, and I understand what she needs in a game.

“I think she’s just one of those players that, like, make you better as well. And I’m just, like, really happy that I got to create this partnership with her, and it’s been really fun so far.

“It came really naturally, and I think that was also thanks to Caity as well, because she, like, kind of lets you have a bit of freedom on the field, and, like, do what, you know, comes natural to you.

“I think when I’ve been at Victory, like, I’ve been, like, predominantly, like, a number six that does a lot of defensive duties, but it’s nice coming here to Bulleen and be given some freedom to, you know, roam up the field knowing that Sarah has my back, and vice versa.”

Cain and Zois form a midfield partnership that look comfortable receiving the ball anywhere on the pitch and both have the experience to know what the game needs at any given time. They can both keep the ball on the deck or send long balls to the wings before the defence has time to react. If either has time to shoot, it spells trouble for goalkeepers.

What has long set Zois apart from most other midfielders is her ability to put the ball exactly where she wants it.

That gives Bulleen an enviable weapon from set pieces, and with four assists in the last two games, she could easily be the difference in a knockout game.

Even if the midfield rhythm can be disrupted, at some point she will get a chance to send in a corner or free kick. If you are an opposition defender all you can really do is hope.

She is modest about her deal-ball prowess and quick to give credit to her teammates for their finishing and arial ability.

“I think that we’ve got some just really dominant girls on the team.

“I try my best to get it in some sort of space that they’re in, so they can kind of do their job.

“Honestly, I think it’s more down to them.

“I just whip it in and then they’re getting on the end of it.”

It is an attribute well known across the league and one honed through years of practice.

“In my house, when I was younger, we had a little room, and I had soccer goals, in the room and every day, I would go and play in there and continuously curl the ball into a little target that I had.”

Bulleen enter finals after a 4-1 win over newly crowned premiers Heidelberg United and an 8-0 thrashing of Brunswick Juventus. Those impressive results are the latest in a 12 game undefeated streak that featured only two draws.

In most seasons that sort of form would have been enough to secure a third consecutive premiership, but knockout games are different and they face an equally dangerous Box Hill United, themselves fresh off a seven goal game against Preston in Round 22.

As the business end of the season approaches, the intensity of training has ramped up at The Veneto Club.

“The (training) games are so difficult and intense, and it really, tests you, I guess, and I think that puts us in  good shape for the weekend.

“I don’t want to speak too soon. I hope that we continue the form that we’ve been generating, and I’m really looking forward to this week.

“It’s going to be a really challenging game

“Playing anyone that’s finished in the top four will be challenging, so it’ll be fun and exciting, but hopefully we can continue the form that we’re in.

“Obviously both teams can score a lot of goals, so maybe it’ll be, like, a battle of who can keep a clean sheet and defend really well. Finals are just different though.  

“It’s hard to really predict what’s going to happen.

“It’s going to be really important for some of the older girls, like myself and Tiff and Sarah, to kind of maybe lead by example. because there are going to be some nerves.

“I’ve been there where I’ve been absolutely terrified, but I think coming in this week, I’m more just excited at the opportunity to play in a final.

“They’re the best type of games to play in.  I’m just coming at it from that point of view.”

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Preview: A new era for Manchester City begins

By Eloise Smallbone and Rachel Gore (02/09/2025)

Above: Manchester City’s squad during preseason. Photo: ManCityWomen on X.

As the start of the new season draws near, one of the teams hoping for a strong start to a new era is Manchester City. With a new head coach, new players and major returns from injury, City are looking to improve on a disappointing 2024-25. 

A new manager leads the side

This season Manchester City Women are welcoming a new Head Coach, Andrée Jeglertz. From Sweden, Jeglertz has made the move to the Manchester from the Denmark national team, having a range of experience in both club and international football. 

Above: Jeglertz at the Joie Stadium. Photo: Manchester City website.

As a former player, Jeglertz knows what it’s like to be on the pitch. Beyond this, he has a wealth of experience in managerial positions. 

Jeglertz has worked with numerous teams in the Swedish domestic leagues with his five year stint at Eskilstuna United being particularly impressive. He improved the side’s competitiveness and helped the club to reach the top tier of Swedish women’s football. Following his role at Eskilstuna, Jeglertz moved to Goteborg FC.

He also has experience working in international football – taking Denmark to this summer’s European Championships, where they failed to escape the group stage.

At City, Jeglertz will be pushing to finish in at least the top 3 of the WSL. He will do so by employing his usual tactics; ensuring a solid defence is present, keeping formations flexible, and focusing on the development of the players in his squad.

City’s new signings

Some of the players that Jeglertz will be coaching are new signings; this summer, Manchester City have signed numerous new players. 

The most notable of these signings is that of Sydney Lohmann; a midfielder who has signed a 3-year deal with City after spending 9 years at Bayern Munich. 

Lohmann is a technical player who dictates play by making strong passes from the defence to the attacking forwards. Lohmann knows how to win, she has four Bundesliga titles to her name and won a cup double in her final season in Germany. The baller has also played in high pressure international matches for Germany so will be ready to step up for City and deliver in crucial moments.

Laura Wienroither’s permanent transfer to the club has been much anticipated by City and Arsenal fans alike. Wienroither came to City on loan last season and is an experienced defender who is known for her knowledge of the game. 

City have already benefited from Wienroither’s presence on the pitch, particularly from the ways in which she stops incredibly technical and fast-paced wingers.

Playing for her former club, Arsenal, and internationally for Austria has led her to become accustomed to high pressure situations. This will be crucial as she will be key in City’s fight for Cup and League titles.

Above: Laura Wienroither signs for Man City. Photo: Manchester City Website.

Eartha Cumings is a goalkeeper moving over to the WSL from the Swedish league where she played with FC Rosengård. Cumings will join City’s existing goalkeeper rotation and will wear number 1. As a player, she has quick reflexes and great distribution allowing her to control a game from her place in the goal. 

As well as helping to keep City in games, Cumings will provoke competition amongst City’s existing goalkeepers, who are Eve Annets, Khiara Keating, Katie Startup and Ayaka Yamashita. This will further raise the standard of all keepers at the club.

Iman Beney will also be joining the WSL from a different league, she’s making the move from the Switzerland side, Young Boys. 

As a forward, Beney threatens defenders and provides assists alike as she breaks through strong defensive lines and creates goal opportunities. Beney often plays down the wing so is a necessity addition to City’s squad after the announcement that Chloe Kelly has made a permanent move to Arsenal.

The youngest, and first, of City’s signings during this transfer window is Jade Rose. She is moving from Harvard Crimson in the states and will join City’s backline. 

Crimson can play as a full-back or as a central defender. This versatility will only benefit City as it will allow for tactics to evolve throughout games. 

International success within the team

There have been several of Manchester City’s squad that have achieved international success over the summer. Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp, Jess Park and Khiara Keating were all part of the Lionesses squad who won Euro 2025, whilst Kerolin won the 2025 Copa America with Brazil in Ecuador during the summer too. The club celebrated the triumphant members of the squad before their men’s team’s fixture against Tottenham Hotspur. 

Above: City’s Euro 2025 winners. Photo: ManCityWomen on X.

Five of Andrée Jeglertz’s side achieving major international tournament success brings important experience to the team, and could be influential in their drive for trophies this season. Each of the players also demonstrated resilience under pressure, which could also be a key contributor to their success this season. 

Greenwood and Hemp stood out in the Euros, with both players starting for Sarina Wiegman’s side in the final against Spain, and Greenwood scoring one of the penalties in the final shootout. 

Kerolin also played a crucial part in her country’s success, as she scored a hat-trick in their group stage win against Bolivia and also played in their victory over Columbia. This experience of success could be a difference for Manchester City this season, with the squad undoubtedly being hungry to extend their success to club level too.

Developing from their performance in the 2024/25 season

The 2024/25 season was disappointing for Manchester City, particularly after they came second in the WSL after only losing out on goal difference to Chelsea. They suffered with many injuries, as well as a change of manager during the season, and finished fourth in the WSL. They also reached the FA Cup semi-finals but lost out to Manchester United and were runners-up in the League Cup.

They will be hoping that with Hemp, Greenwood, Vivianne Miedema and Khadija Shaw being able to play again, they can make significant improvements in all competitions this season. They have also brought in reinforcements over the summer with signings, and this increased squad depth should help them challenge this season. With managerial stability too, they could be in the running for the FA Cup or the League Cup, and may challenge their rivals in the WSL more than they did last season. 

Despite not finishing in a position to qualify for the Champions League being disappointing, it could also have its benefits for the squad this season, leaving them in a better position to challenge Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United in domestic competitions. 

Manchester City’s season kicks off on Friday 5th September. They will be hoping to secure points from a difficult away fixture, as they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

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NPLW Vic R22: Goals galore in the final round of the season

By Kieran Yap 2/9/25

Above: Heidelberg United celebrate one of their three goals. Photo: Isabelle Campbell.

The regular season of the NPLW Vic has been completed. The final four has been decided, there were goals galore in the last weekend and we say goodbye to FV Academy’s senior team. 

Box Hill had the most to gain from this round. A win against Preston Lions would consolidate third place and allow them to avoid premiers Heidelberg United in the semi final. 

Preston have not had the easiest season but were eager to deliver a strong performance to farewell their departing Grand Final coach Dan Foden. 

Ellie La Monte-Whyte gave Preston the best possible start, a clever first touch, a better second one and a decisive third gave the Lions the opening goal in the fourth minute. That lead only lasted a few minutes before a freak goal restored parity. A bad defensive turnover gave Sofia Sakalis the chance to set up Maho Murakami for a long range strike. 

The shot was blocked but somehow bounced and spun over the goalkeeper’s head for a remarkable goal.

That goal opened the floodgates and the scoring did not stop for the rest of the afternoon. Sakalis won the ball back in midfield and the ball worked its way wide to Olivia Ellis. Her cross evaded everyone to fly into the back of the net and give Box Hill the lead.

Preston drew level through a stunning solo effort from Emily Roach. The midfielder created space for herself before unleashing a 30 yard missile over the head of the Box Hill goalkeeper. 

Josephine Aulicono’s long run from defence created Box Hill’s third. She took off from fullback and cut into midfield. Sakalis provided the final ball and Carina Rossi finished confidently to restore Box Hill’s lead. 

The combination of Sakalis and Rhianna Pollicina has been a key reason for Box Hill’s surge up the table this season and after supplying two, Sakalis scored one for herself. She turned into space at the edge of the box and with the Preston defence retreating slightly, she shot from distance to make it 4-2. 

Box Hill’s fifth arrive almost immediately after. Pollicina’s cross was hammered home by Elwen Parbery with a brilliant half-volley. With Box Hill’s attack now competing for goal of the season contender Sienna Techera was next to nominate herself. She cut inside from the right wing and sent a curling effort into the far top corner. 

Box Hill’s seventh and final of the day arrived in the 85th minute. Auicino rounded the goalkeeper and provided Pollicina with an easy finish in the six yard box. The result was the latest in a nine-game winning steak from Box Hill and an ominous warning for their finals rivals. They are a team in form and playing their best football at the right time of year, but comparing Round 25 results, anything they can do, Bulleen set out to do better. 

Around The Grounds:

By the time most people had found their seat and nagivated the maze caused by a Veneto Club Salami Fesitval, Bulleen were already 2-0 up against Brunswick Juventus. 

Danella Butrus scored the first from lose range and then earned a penalty minutes later for Tiffany Eliadis to score from. 

After being a late withdrawl from last week’s game against Heidelberg, Butrus looked like she was on a mission to make up for lost time and potential Gold Medal votes. 

The winger scored a trademark goal, cutting in from the left and shooting viciously with her right to make it 3-0 in the 12th minute. 

Brunswick’s ladder position was already established coming into this game and Bulleen could not drop below second, so this was a chance for the Lions to sharpen their claws ahead of finals. Alana Cortellino made space for herself on the left and set up Izabel Dahakiz for the home side’s fouirth in the 21st minute. 

It was 5-0 before half time. Paige Zois over a set peice usually spells trouble for the opposition and her excellent corner was directed in with a strong Isaballa Accardo header. 

Another Zois corner, this time from the opposite side provided Butrus with her third before half time. The winger nodded in from close range to make it six goal Bulleen before the break. 

Butrus’s trickery earned Bulleen a 57th minute penalty and complete a remarkable performance in an incredible individual season. Zois stepped up to convert the spot kick and scored a well deserved goal after two assists and coming close from open play herself. 

With the result well beyond doubt, attention turned to keeping the staring players fresh and giving others and opportunity to be match sharp for the semi final. Five changes were made including Claudia Mihocic taking to the pitch and Rosie Rodger putting in a promising looking shaft. 

The eighth and final goal arrived in the 75th minute. Accardo scored her second via a glancing header from Ava Brieidis’s out swinging corner kick. 

The 8-0 result means that Box Hill will be facing the only team that outscored them in Round 25, and sets up an entertaining match up in the semi final. 

Heidelberg United rediscovered their winning form with a 3-0 win over fellow finals side Essendon Royals.

Steph Galea opened the scoring after taking advantage of a defensive error and Tamar Levin added their second after half time following a rapid counter attack.

Caitlin Karic sealed the win with Heidelberg’s third. She finished from close range after another end to end move from the premiers

South Melbourne ended the season on a high with a 5-0 win over Boroondara–Carey Eagles.

Heidi Dalton was the first to find the net with a long range effort on the turn.

The second came almost directly from a corner kick with Alexis Pantazopoulos being eventually credited for the goal.

Isabella Rako scored their third after rounding Mia Mossman and keeping her composure from a tight angle.

South scored twice in the dying minutes of added time to cap off the victory. Akeisha Sandu made it 4-0 with a close range header and Dalton brought up her brace following Grace Taranto’s excellent tackle,  run and pass.

Alamein FC ended a strong season with a 1-0 win over Spring Hills FC. Jessica Shilton was the only scorer of the game after getting on the the of a long ball into the box.

Alamein pushed until the end of the season, and although they will be disappointed with missing finals, it was a year in which nobody looked forward to playing them.

The final game of FV Academy’s senior team’s history ended with a 2-1 win over Bentleigh Greens.

Emily Rutkowski’s free kick opened the scoring. It was the latest in a series of spectacular strikes from the versatile defender.

Bentleigh drew level after Sidney Allen’s cross was finished at the far post by Caitlin Storay.

But FV Academy were determined to end their season with a win and achieved that through a late penalty kick from Jasmine Millar.

It was another good result and strong performance by FV Academy, and although it will be a shame that this is the last we will see of this squad together, many of them are sure to be stars in this league and likely on bigger stages.

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What Taylor Ray brings to Victory

By Isabelle Campbell 1/9/25

Above: Taylor Ray for Australia. Photo: Football Australia

Taylor Ray, one of the A-League Women’s most accomplished and resilient players, has officially signed with Melbourne Victory following three back-to-back championships across two different clubs.

Though only 24, Ray brings with her an impressive record of success. In her eight seasons in the league, every club she has been part of has reached the Grand Final, highlighting her experience within consistently high-performing teams. It’s a remarkable streak and one that underlines exactly why Victory have moved to bring her in.

Arriving at Melbourne Victory as a gritty, hard-working midfielder who does the tough stuff exceptionally well. Known for her tenacity, discipline, and ability to win back possession, she brings the kind of edge Victory will need in a reshaped midfield.

A Career Marked by Strength and Determination

Ray made her A-League Women debut with Sydney FC in 2017 at just 16 years old. Over her time with the club, she worked her way into a key player role, becoming an integral part of Sydney’s dominant era. She was with the team as they reached six consecutive Grand Finals and secured three Championships.

Despite the extensive list of accolades, her journey has not been without challenges. Over six years, Ray suffered three ACL tears. She fought her way back from two of these to finally make her senior international debut for the Matildas against Spain in June 2022, a huge milestone after years of hard work.

However, the very next day in training, she suffered a third ACL rupture due to a contact injury. Once again, she rebuilt herself physically and mentally to return to professional football.

Her determination and mental toughness are now among her defining qualities, traits that Melbourne Victory will no doubt value alongside her on-field skills.

The Central Coast Chapter

Ray joined Central Coast Mariners ahead of their second season back in the league, 2024/25, quickly becoming beloved by fans and influential within the team. Though originally a midfielder, she found herself playing most of the season out of position as a centre-back, filling in due to squad injuries, and thriving. She went on to play every single minute of the regular season, anchoring the defence, organising play, and displaying the same intelligence and composure she’s become known for in midfield.

In the finals, she battled through an ankle injury sustained in the Elimination Final win over Canberra. After missing the first leg of the Semi-Final against Melbourne City, she returned for the second leg and then played the full 120 minutes of the Grand Final against Melbourne Victory, putting surgery on hold to see her team through to silverware.

The Mariners won on penalties, securing Ray’s fourth A-League Women Championship and her first with a new club after an already impressive three titles with Sydney FC.

At the 2024/25 Mariners Medal Dinner, Ray made a clean sweep of the individual honours, clinching Mariners Women’s Player of the Year, Fans’ Women’s Player of the Year as well as the Mariners Medal (Club MVP)

It was a season that confirmed what fans already knew, Taylor Ray is fast becoming one of the most valuable players in Australian football.

What She Brings to Victory

Melbourne Victory have recently seen the departures of three midfielders, fan favourite Alex Chidiac, young gun Alana Murphy, and USA-born Sara D’Appolonia, leaving important gaps in the squad. Ray’s signing is seen as a crucial addition to Melbourne Victory’s midfield, providing defensive solidity, sharp decision-making, and an undeniable winners mentality.

Her ability to play across midfield and also easily adapt to defensive roles means she can provide valuable flexibility, helping Victory to maintain balance and control in the middle of the park.

Naturally, one of the most newsworthy factors in this move is the fact that Ray helped the Mariners clinch the championship by defeating Melbourne Victory in the Grand Final. Now, she’s joining the club she once overcame, bringing invaluable experience and a champion’s mindset to Victory’s quest for silverware.

The Ultimate Competitor

Taylor Ray’s career to date is defined by success and perseverance. Though injuries have at times sidelined her, she has been part of teams that consistently reach the highest level. She’s overcome significant setbacks, adapted to new roles, and performed under pressure, proving herself a true champion and player to watch.

With the right environment at Victory and a strong, uninterrupted season, Ray could be in a position to begin to put herself back in the frame for national team consideration. The Matildas midfield is currently one of the more competitive areas to break into, but if she can stay fit and consistently perform at a high level, a return to the international stage isn’t out of the question.

Now that they’ve brought in the player who so recently helped defeat them, do Victory have all the right ingredients? What’s undeniable is Taylor Ray will be determined to continue her streak of Grand Final appearances in her ninth season.

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SWPL refereeing under fire as Rangers escape with win

Rangers 2-1 Motherwell

By Gethin Thurlow (31/8/25)

Above: Kirsty Howat scores to put Rangers 2-0 against Motherwell Photo: @RangersWFC on X

Referee Lauren Whitehead was the centre of attention as several poor decisions impacted the game, overshadowing Rangers’ victory over Motherwell, which kept them in touch with Celtic at the top of the SWPL.

While Rangers were allowed unfettered access to the Motherwell half in the first half, the away side held strong at the back. Leanne Crichton’s team certainly mixed up their forms of attack, trying long balls, crosses, and more controlled passing moves into the box. Where they looked most threatening was from set pieces, although Rebecca Cameron stepped into action whenever it was required.

The only time Rangers were able to break this Motherwell defensive deadlock was the controversial first goal. As Katie Wilkinson and Chelsie Watson challenged for the ball, Watson went down clearly clutching her head, causing the Motherwell players to stop, waiting for the referee’s whistle. That sound never came, and instead Lizzie Arnot slipped Brogan Hay in, with the Motherwell defence totally switched off. Even an initial save from Cameron wasn’t enough to keep the score level. 

Motherwell were able to win the ball from the Rangers’ defence in some high areas, but their front four did not have the quality or communication to link up and turn that possession into goals. As the second half began with Paul Bronwlie’s side trailing, they started to push up more and that opened the Motherwell defence slightly. 

Katie Wilkinson, usually known for her clinical finishes; played an inch perfect through-ball to Kirsty Howat who found the bottom corner to put Rangers in full control of the tie. As the game seemed to be petering out, Rangers keeper Jenna Fife was far too casual, getting caught on the ball by Kodie Hay, who squared it to Carla Boyce and suddenly that game was back to life.

Rangers were not fully able to shut down Motherwell in that subsequent time, and they got lucky again when Nicola Docherty appeared to pull Teoni Steele back with the Motherwell substitute through on goal. Had that foul been given, it would have constituted a red card for denial of a clear goalscoring opportunity.

Above: Rangers captain Nicola Docherty was lucky to avoid a red card in the dying moments of the game Photo: RangersWFC on X

Shortly before the hosts doubled their lead, the referee seemed to miss an obvious handball by Motherwell in their own area, which gave the impression that Whitehead’s poor decisions were more down to incompetence rather than any agenda. This will not take away the sour feeling from Motherwell though, who will feel that the game was taken away from them through those refereeing decisions.

It does not take away from the performance, though. Only in one moment were Rangers able to fully slice through this Motherwell side, and they can take so much pride and confidence from that going forward into other games. The other professional sides will take note of how Motherwell managed to foil Rangers so well, both to try and overcome that when they face Paul Brownlie’s team and as inspiration for ways to shut down this Rangers team.

For Rangers, the first goal perhaps underlined a club-wide attitude that winning matters more than anything else. Some fans will no doubt feel that their willingness to take advantage of such a situation goes against so much of the positive spirit with which the women’s game has traditionally been played.

On the footballing side, it is once again a very underwhelming performance as things have yet to properly settle under Leanne Crichton. Whether the intention was there or not, it felt like they were comfortable with that two-goal lead and were happy to play the game out in this manner, rather than trying to push for as many as possible. It is another effort full of learnings to be taken and improvements to be made, as they look ahead to an Old Firm derby that already looks like a must-win game for Rangers given the start to the season from their old rivals.

For the SWPL, there is much to be taken from this. Player welfare is the top priority of any sport, and this is why football has pushed so hard on the head-injury rule in recent years. If a player goes down and the injury does not look serious, then play can continue. However, if the injury is to the head, the game should be stopped instantly. Watson very clearly suffered a blow to the head, and the referee should have stopped play. The league needs to consider whether they are emphasising this enough or how they can adapt the way referees are trained and monitored, to ensure that player safety has priority over keeping the flow of the game.

Teams

Rangers (4-4-2): Fife, McLeary, Austin, Docherty (c), Conelly-Jackson, Hay, Griffiths, McLoughlin, Arnot, Howat, Wilkinson

Substitutes: Hill (for Austin 63’), Shin-Ji (for Griffiths 63’), McAulay (for Hay 63’), Cruft (McLoughlin 74’), Berry (for Howat 80’)

Scorers: Hay 28’, Howat 53’

Motherwell (4-1-4-1): Cameron, Inglis (c), Browning, Watson, Burn, Ronald, Bulloch, Collins, Blyth-Clark, Rice, Boyce.

Substitutes: Cairns (for Inglis 65’), Denholm (for Rice 79’), Hay (for Bulloch 79’), Steele (for Blyth-Clark 86’)

Scorer: Boyce 80’

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Fremantle City seal State Cup success

Fremantle City 3-0 Balcatta Etna

by Ella McShane at the Sam Kerr Football Centre for Impetus (30/8/25)

Above: Fremantle City lift the Western Australian State Cup earlier today. Photo: Ella McShane for Impetus.

Fremantle City claimed their first Western Australian State Cup today with victory over Balcatta Etna at the Sam Kerr Football Centre.

Goals from Annabelle Leek (penalty), Sophie Meaden, and Leyna Wood ensured that the Port City side ended their season on a high, despite missing out on Top Four Cup action.

Freo came into this game having won nine of their last 12 games in league and cup, but still Balcatta had denied them a top four finish in the NPLW WA. Sam Geddes’ team were fully motivated to ensure that their superb run of form in the second half of the season got some reward.

This was a thrilling showdown where determination and grit were much in evidence. It was Balcatta who had the best of the early exchanges, and just five minutes in, Alyssa van Heurck struck a clear warning sign with a shot that forced a superb diving save from Fremantle City goalkeeper Megan Phillips.

Balcatta’s efforts to build carried a sustainable optimism ,with Fremantle’s strong but fleeting attacks on the counter a reminder that they too offered a threat.

Balcatta’s dominance continued to grow as they continued to control the midfield, prompting superb saves from Phillips.

The tide turned in the latter stages of the half for the port side when Mia Yeo’s excellent read of the play enabled her to break through the hitherto organised Balcatta defence. Called to action, Etna’s keeper Rebecca Bennett smothered the ball just enough to ward of danger.

Building on the momentum, Yeo made yet another spectacular charge up the centre a mere minute later. In a direct parallel to her previous chance, Yeo hit a shot from inside the left hand side of the box only for it to agonisingly be denied by the crossbar.

With Freo’s threat building, in the heat of the moment, Balcatta defender Zoee Spadano committed a handball in the box, resulting in a penalty being awarded. Captain Annabelle Leek stepped up to the penalty spot and secured Fremantle the lead with composure.

After the break, Fremantle continued to build on their attacking momentum and their efforts were rewarded just six minutes into the second half.

Abbey Green sent a screaming cross towards Fremantle’s favourable goal that was defended brilliantly by Balcatta with three shots cleared off the line, but Sophie Meaden was on hand to deservedly double the port city side’s lead, effortlessly tapping the goal into the bottom of the net.

As the half progressed, Balcatta steadied the ship and began to balance out the control of midfield once more.

However, Etna’s defence was kept on high alert throughout the half, notably when Leyna Wood made a surging run down the pitch, threatening Bennett’s goal. However, Bennett’s calm read of the threat neutralised danger with composure.

Wood continued to press, and in the 84th minute, her persistence paid off. Striding into the right-hand side of the box, the American’s initial shot was met by Bennett’s block. But Wood was quick to react, pouncing on the rebound and volleying the ball into the net to seal the historic 3-0 victory for Fremantle City with her 20th goal of the season.

Check out our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball for video from the game courtesy of Ella McShane and Max Parris.

Teams: FREMANTLE CITY: Phillips, Spencer, Poad, Osborne, Leek, Kiama, Meaden, Reynolds, Wood, Green, Yeo. Substitutes: Ireland, Trueman, Siah, Lush, Mayoe, Healy.

Scorers: Leek (pen) 40’, Meaden 51’, Wood 84’.

BALCATTA ETNA: Bennett, Foletta, Spadano, Davis, Murray, Jarvis, Marwick, Van Heurck, Cook, Gale, Meakins. Substitutes: Duncanson, Hargreaves, Britton, Gama, St Pierre, Comito.

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Dominant Bayern brush aside rivals Wolfsburg to win Supercup

Bayern Munich 4 – 2 VfL Wolfsburg

By Catherine MacKenzie (30/08/2025)

Above: Bayern Munich Frauen celebrate their win. Photo: @DFB_Frauen1 on X.

The competition

The Google Pixel Supercup revives the discontinued German Women’s Supercup, which ran between 1992 and 1997, with the premise being that two of the nation’s top teams would compete for a pre-season trophy. The new iteration was launched in 2024, with Bayern handed the trophy after a tight 1-0 win over rivals Wolfsburg. The teams involved normally include the league winner and DFB Pokal winner – however as both were won by Bayern in 2024-25, league runners up Wolfsburg were once again the opposition in 2025.

The teams

Many new faces could be seen around the stadium as new Munich head coach Jose Barcola took charge of his first competitive match, and Stephan Lerch was back on the bench for VfL Wolfsburg. On the pitch, both starting lineups included summer signings: Johannes (from Frankfurt) and Levels (from Leverkusen) for the Wolves, and for Bayern, Danish player Ballisager (from Fiorentina).

The action

Any game between FC Bayern Munich and VfL Wolfsburg is going to be frought with rivalry, but few would have predicted the pure number of times the ref would blow her whistle in the first half. It was difficult for either team to get into the flow of the game, however Munich dominated from the earliest stages. Wolfsburg keeper Johannes was forced into action within the first ten minutes as Georgia Stanway fed Jovana Damnjanovic in the box and she had her first attempt of the match.

Whilst that attempt did not result in a goal, Munich did not have long to wait. 18 minutes in, central defender Magdalena Eriksson stayed forward after a set piece. Unmarked on the edge of the penalty area, she seized the chance and fired a powerful left-footed shot into the net.

Above: Magdalena Eriksson celebrates her goal. Photo: DFB_Frauen1 on X.

Bayern continued to dominate as Wolfsburg struggled to break out of their press, with no Wolfsburg players keeping the strong Bavarian midfield in check. Stanway was allowed to make runs into the box, where her interplay with Damnjanovic caused problems, and Linda Dallman was given ample space to roam on the right.

The second goal came five minutes after the first; Damnjanovic outpaced Joelle Wedemeyer and struck a powerful shot high at the near post. Close to the end of the half, Wolfsburg had their best chance as Dutch striker Lineth Beerensteyn hit the crossbar.

The second half was more open – with more chances on both sides. Wolfsburg pulled one back as Bayern failed to clear the ball in from a corner and Vivien Endemann shot home. There was celebration in the stands as Lena Oberdorf made her long-awaited return from injury for the Munich team on the hour mark, and the game ebbed as both sides fought for the momentum.

Above: Lena Oberdorf makes her return. Photo: DFB_Frauen1 on X.

The goal of the match came from Bayern as they restored their two goal lead in the 72nd minute. Lea Schüller’s last act in the match was to produce a sublime volley as she received the ball on her left, chested the ball, turned and shot with her right.

The fourth goal came as Justine Kielland was adjudged to have brought down Damnjanovic in the box, leading to a red card and a penalty to Bayern. Stanway shot home with confidence to put the game out of reach for Wolfsburg.

In the final minutes of the match, Wolfsburg were awarded a penalty of their own as Lena Oberdorf fouled Beerensteyn on the edge of the box. Janina Minge converted past Mahmutovic.

Bayern Munich kick off the Frauen Bundesliga season against Bayer Leverkusen at the Allianz Arena on the 6th of September. Wolfsburg are away to Hamburger SV.

TEAMS: BAYERN MUNICH (4-2-3-1): Mahmutovic, Kett, Ballisager, Eriksson, Simon, Zadrazil, Stanway, Dallmann, Tanikawa, Damnjanovic, Schüller. Substitutes: Grohs (Tor), Gilles (for Eriksson 82′), T. Hansen, Alara (for Damnjanovic 82′), Caruso, Oberdorf (for Tanikawa 62′), Bühl (for Dallman 62′), Harder (for Schüller 73′) , Padilla-Bidas.

VfL WOLFSBURG (4-2-1-3): Johannes, Wedemeyer, Dijkstra, Minge, Levels, Lattwein, Peddemors, Endemann, Popp, Huth, Beerensteyn. Substitutes: Tufekovic (Tor), Bjelde (for Wedemeyer 73′), Küver, Pujols, Kielland (for Lattwein 64′), Vallotto (for Peddemors 84′), Bussy (for Huth, 84′), S. Freier, Zicai (for Endemann 64′).

Attendance: 16,733

Referee: TBC

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