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Tahlia D’Opera: Balcatta Etna Through And Through

To enhance our coverage of the NPL WA Women’s competition this season, Impetus will be publishing regular interviews with players and coaches from across the league. To kick our WA On Wednesday series off, in the first of a two-part feature, Tahlia D’Opera, defender at Balcatta Etna speaks to Impetus’ Ben Gilby. Part One focuses on the close links between the D’Opera family and the Balcatta Etna club. Tahlia also discusses her footballing journey and the importance of female role models in male-dominated sports (20/4/22).

Above: Tahlia D’Opera – an integral part of Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography, supplied by Tahlia D’Opera.

The D’Opera family form a major part of the Balcatta Etna set-up.

As well as Tahlia and her twin sister Monique being part of the playing squad, mother Anthea has been a key part of the club’s organisational and administrative group for nine years commencing with voluntary administrative duties and managerial responsibilities when Tahlia and Monique arrived at the club in 2013. Since then, all three members of the family have played an essential role at the club.

“Mum has played a pivotal administrative role in female football at Balcatta Etna Football Club and is a well-respected ambassador in the Western Australian Female Football NPL Women (NPLW) and Junior Girls League”, Tahlia outlined. “She has willingly taken on Junior Girls and NPLW registration duties and co-ordinating and organising annual Gala Presentation Evenings to ensure the advocacy and recognition of female football at the club level.”

As for her own introduction to football, the Balcatta Etna defender revealed: “As a young girl, it used to be routine to attend my older brother Matthew’s training and games. He was a goalkeeper and often needed people to fire in shots or practice within the backyard and of course, this was myself and my twin sister Monique.

“Reflecting back to 2006, the Female Football Pathway was very novel with most young girls who wanted to play competitively joining the Junior Boys Leagues. After begging my parents to play, I commenced my junior playing years at Wembley Down’s Soccer Club, playing in the Junior Boys’ Leagues until 2013. At the time, of course, my family was concerned about myself and my sister being pushed around by the boys but like most passionate young girls at the time, we used to get knocked and stood straight back up. I reflect back on these junior years and I was very fortunate to be surrounded by such a supportive young group of boys and coaches.

“In 2013, I transferred to Balcatta Soccer Club under Lisa Tana where I played U15s Girls for one season, before quickly transitioning into the Senior Women’s Team (Bankwest Women’s State League at the time) at the age of 15.

“Whilst still playing for Balcatta FC, I was selected as an associate for the National Training Centre (NTC) with coach Jessine Bonzas in 2014 for two years, where I was able to participate in elite training and camps, and learn from so many high-quality players, who I still play either alongside at Balcatta or for other clubs in the NPLW.

“Since 2014, my time as a member of the Senior Women’s side has been filled with many highlights and memories that I’ll cherish for a lifetime. These include winning the Top Four Championship in its inaugural year in 2018, winning the Night Series in 2021, playing my 100^th First Team game in 2021, and picking up a couple of awards along the way, including 2021 Club Player of the Year.

“I’ve learnt many lessons as a footballer, particularly at Balcatta Etna FC under Lisa Tana. She has taught me how to be loyal, how to win graciously and how to learn in defeat. I think back to my first Premier League game at the age of 15 when she reminded me to be brave, and even if I wasn’t, pretend to be, because no one can tell the difference.”
Tahlia D’Opera, Balcatta Etna FC.

“Most importantly, through the people I’ve met and coaches I’ve had throughout my football journey, I have been taught to leave everything better than I found it, and this has driven my passion for coaching young players, mentoring others, and fostering relationships with my team-mates.

“Someone once told me, you won’t always remember what someone has said, but you will remember how they made you feel. I am very grateful for all the older and experienced players that lead me to where I am now and who have inspired me to help others as they did for me.”

**Above:** Tahlia (right) with the 2018 Top Four Cup with sister Monique (left) and Tessa De Leo (centre). **Photo:** via Tahlia D’Opera.

With so many great football achievements and memories behind her already, I wondered how Tahlia would now describe herself as a player.

“Ooh! That’s a tough question! I like to think I’m dynamic, so I can either play a full 90 minutes or substitute in depending on what the match demands.

“I’m continually looking to combine with the midfield or threaten the opposing defence where possible, but I’m pretty disciplined with the coaches tactics, so will try to keep the ball in possession.

“I’m a lifelong learner so I’m always looking for ways to develop or improve my skills and confidence on the ball. I’ve recently focused more on my functional strength and fitness which has proven positive so far so I’m hoping for this to transition into my game. I also don’t mind a conversation with the referees as well!”

It is often said these days in relation to the importance of providing young girls with sporting role models that “you can’t be who you can’t see”. Tahlia admits that she had few female sporting idols growing up, but she is thrilled to see the situation changing for the current generation.

“With the women’s game still evolving, female footballers didn’t really have a place in the spotlight during the early years of my football journey.

“My first football jersey was a David Beckham number seven England 2003-2005 home jersey. Being such as household name at the time, it was inevitable to watch his incredible class, passing ability, and freekicks.

“However growing up and playing in a more defensive role, I’ve always loved watching Sergio Ramos at Real Madrid – his aggression, his leadership, his technique, and his success. I’d be lying if I said I did have one of his famous kits.

“Having said this, female athletes in male-dominated sports inspire me on each occasion. To note, athletes such as Ronda Rowsey (UFC Athlete) and Sam Kerr’s demonstrations of persistence is truly inspirational.

“With the overall growth of the female football over the past few years, the success of the Matildas, and hosting the 2023 World Cup, young female players are surrounded by many role models and leaders to look up to at the club, state, and national team level which is inspiring. Watching the Matildas play together, with their comradery and ‘Never Say Die’ attitude, it’s hard not get goosebumps.”

Don’t miss Part Two of our chat with Tahlia D’Opera next Wednesday when the Balcatta Etna defender reviews the club’s 2021 campaign and considers the new season of the NPL WA Women’s competition.

Impetus’ weekly round-ups of all the NPL WA Women’s matches are published on the site every Monday. This week’s can be read here: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/04/18/npl-wa-women-round-three-wrap/

The Swedish Scene

Ben Gilby rounds up all the key action from Round Three of the Damallsvenskan and Round Two week of the Elitettan. (19/4/22).

Above: Goal-line drama in the game between Hammarby and Piteå. Photo: BK Häcken.

DAMALLSVENSKAN:

Round Three kicked off on Friday night with AIK’s home game with BK Häcken at Skytteholms.

The Solna-based side’s new signing from Sydney FC, Remy Siemsen, was in the stands along with 543 other fans to watch her team in action for the first time. Häcken were comfortable 3-0 winners thanks to a hat-trick from Filippa Curmark. Her first goal came with 26 minutes played as she headed home. Curmark grabbed her second 11 minutes later when Johanna Rytting Kaneryd cut along the right and squared into the box for the ball to be swept home.

**Above:** BK Häcken celebrate during victory at AIK. **Photo:** BK Häcken.

The pair combined again with 51 minutes played as Rytting Kaneryd supplied from the right and Curmark lifted the ball into the left hand of the net to complete the scoring.

Siemsen is likely to be in a position to make her AIK debut next week when she faces a Rosengård side containing international teammates Teagan Micah and Charli Grant.

Djurgården suffered a third straight defeat after going down 5-2 to defending champions Rosengård at Stockholm Stadium.

Här är Persson! 💥

Mia Persson sätter första baljan för säsongen borta mot Djurgården. pic.twitter.com/JmPmD9kogy
— OBOS Damallsvenskan (@_OBOSDamallsv) April 15, 2022

Despite there being seven goals scored during the Good Friday afternoon clash, it took until three minutes before the break for the first to go in. Loretta Kullashi supplied the ball for Mia Persson to score. The game went significantly in Rosengård’s favour with two goals in sixty seconds just before the hour mark. Olivia Schough found Persson to grab her second with Stefanie Sanders playing in Kullashi to make it 3-0.

**Above:** Aerial challenges during Djurgården’s game with Rosengård (white). **Photo:** DIF.

With just over fifteen minutes to go, Djurgården grabbed a lifeline as Tove Almqvist supplied a pass for Hayley Dowd to score. Yet the home fans’ hope lasted just four minutes as Persson and Kullashi combined again for the latter to grab the visitors’ fourth of the afternoon.

The remaining two goals came in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes as completed her hat-trick for Rosengård. The final say went to the hosts as Tilde Lindwall played in Almqvist for Djurgården’s second. The Stockholm side has now conceded 11 goals in their opening three matches.

Umeå IK won their first match since being promoted back to the Damallsvenskan with a 4-0 win at home to Vittsjö. However, it was not quite as straightforward as the scoreline suggests. Umeå had four shots on goal and scored each time. Vittsjö earned seven corners and more shots on goal, but it was the home side who came out well on top on the scoreboard. Despite only returning from international duty less than two days previously in Australia, Clare Polkinghorne started for the visitors

Two goals from Lisa Bjork at either end of the first half set the ball running for the hosts before Sarah Mellouk’s penalty just after the hour mark made matters comfortable. A fourth goal from Henna-Riikka Honkanen with 10 minutes to go completed the impressive win in front of 325 fans.

**Above:** Celebration time for Linköping at IFK Kalmar. **Photo:** Filip Oskarsson.

Linköping continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 4-1 win at IFK Kalmar. They took the lead with 15 minutes played thanks to Cornelia Kopecs’ strike. However, in the early stages of the second period, the home side levelled from Juliette Kemppi’s goal.

However, the game took an important twist just four minutes later as Linköping went ahead once more due to an own goal. Yuka Momiki’s penalty with 20 minutes remaining ultimately sealed the points with Amalie Vangsgaard adding a fourth in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes.

**Above:** KIF Örebro were delighted with a 2-1 win at IF Brommapojkarna which continues their strong start to the 2022 season. **Photo:** Jesper Zerman / Bildbyrån

KIF Örebro continued their positive start to the campaign with a 2-1 win at newly-promoted IF Brommapojkarna.

Two goals in three minutes midway through the second half earned Örebro the points. Amanda Rantanen put the visitors ahead after being played in by Heidi Kollanen. Elli Pikkujämsä made it 2-0 shortly afterwards. Ida Bengtsson supplied a pass for Klara Andrup to get Bromma’s consolation at the death for the majority of the 126 crowd.

**Above:** Emilia Larsson shows her joy after scoring Hammarby’s winner over Piteå. **Photo:** Hammarby.

New signing Courtney Nevin inspired her new team Hammarby to their first win of the season as she made her debut at home to Piteå.

The only goal came with 13 minutes to go when Matilda Vinberg found Emilia Larsson to score. A best of the week crowd of 1,109 was present at Hammarby Idrottsparken.

In the final game of the round, Kristianstads played out a 2-2 draw at home to Eskilstuna United in front of 912 fans.

**Above:** Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene – a prominent performer in Eskilstuna United’s draw at Kristianstads. **Photo:** Eskilstuna United.

The visitors went ahead after 10 minutes when Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene found Paulina Nystrom to score. Kristianstads finally levelled five minutes into the second period when Tabby Tindell continued her fantastic scoring run at the start of the season after being played in by Evelyn Viens.

Eskilstuna retook the lead 12 minutes before the end with Okobi-Okeoghene benefitting by the build-up play of Elise Stenevik to net. Their lead was short-lived as Klara Rybrink levelled four minutes later.

ROUND FOUR FIXTURES MIDWEEK: Rosengård v AIK, KIF Örebro v Umeå IK, Linköping v Hammarby, Piteå v IFK Kalmar, Vittsjö v Djurgården, Eskilstuna United v IF Brommapojkarna, BK Häcken v Kristianstads.

ELITETTAN:

SELECTED MATCH DETAILS:

Växjö have continued their strong start to bid to seal an instant return to the Damallsvenskan with a 4-0 win at home to newly-promoted Team TG FF. Hanna Stokki gave the hosts a powerful opening with two goals in as many minutes as they built an early 2-0 lead. Elin Nilsson made it three just six minutes before the break. Stokki completed her hat-trick nine minutes before the end. Växjö have won both of their opening matches to the delight of the 319 crowd.

Rävåsens IK Karlskoga tough start to life in the Elitettan continued after an 8-0 home defeat to IFK Norrköping in a game brought forward from the Round Three schedule. The visitors raced to a 5-0 lead with just 25 minutes on the clock thanks to goals from Lovina Gustafsson (two), Sabina Ravnell, Minnie Asperot, and My Cato. Two further goals in nine second-half minutes from Taylor Townsend (one penalty) added to the tally before Townsend completed her hat-trick in the closing stages. Karlskoga have now conceded 15 goals in their opening two games after being promoted into the league at the end of last season. The home crowd of 125 will be hoping for better times ahead.

**Above:** Action from Lidköpings game with IK Uppsala. **Photo:** Lidköpings FK.

IK Uppsala, who for much of last season looked to be definites for promotion to the Damallsvenskan are in the leading pack after two games. They gained a point from a trip to Lidköpings FK. Rosa Ossorio put Uppsala ahead just before the half-hour mark. Ronja Karlsson Törnborg levelled matters with three minutes remaining in front of 101 spectators.

Full Results Round Two: Lidköpings FK 1-1 IK Uppsala, Växjö 4-0 Team TG FF, Ifö Bromölla IF 1-2 Gamla Upsala SK, Mallbackens IF Sunne 1-1 IFK Norrköping, Alingsås FC United 1-1 Jitex BK, Bergdalens IK 2-0 Älvsjö AIK FF,Sundsvalls 1-1 Rävåsens IK Karlskoga.

Round Three Fixtures (Midweek): Rävåsens IK Karlskoga 0-8 IFK Norrköping, Gamla Upsala SK v Team TG FF, Ifö Bromölla IF v Mallbackens IF Sunne, Jitex BK v Lidköpings FK, Växjö v IK Uppsala, Älvsjö AIK FF v Sundsvalls, Alingsås FC United v Bergdalens IK.

NPL Victoria Round Three Wrap

Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPL Women’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report of one game and a wrap of all the other games along with photos (19/4/22).

Above: Celebrations for Box Hill United after Candela Ferreyra Bas‘ late leveller against Bayside United. Photo: Joaotam.

MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:

FC Bulleen Lions 1-1 Calder United

This week we were all waiting for Easter Monday. Two recent powerhouses of Victoria’s NPLW faced off with first placed Bulleen hosting the resurgent and undefeated Calder United.

FC Bulleen Lions were without A-League pair Tiffany Eliadis and Lia Privitelli but went into the game after two encouraging wins. Calder United arrived at the Veneto Club confident after a 4-0 defeat of FV Emerging in round two.

The match was frenetic from the kick-off, and the home side had the first opportunity with Alyssa Dall`Oste being forced into a good early save in the Calder goals.

Bulleen were more patient in the build-up and in possession early. Rebekah Stott had been dominant in the Melbourne City midfield this season but returned to her traditional centre-back role for Bulleen. She was composed and helped them build from the back.

Calder gradually grew into the match as the half developed. Emma Rober’s chased down a long ball and her first-time cross almost landed inside the far post. Emily Shields looked unbothered in the Bulleen goal and watched it sail wide for a goal kick.

Robers had the next good chance for Calder United. Ava Groba was dangerous and energetic upfront for the visitors and played in the midfielder with only Shields to beat. Her shot was well hit but fizzed wide of the post in another warning for Bulleen’s defence.

Both teams looked to attack, although Calder were quicker to move the ball forward than the hosts. A dangerous Stacey Papadopoulos flicked on Rober’s shot but it again missed the target.

The final chance of the half fell to Bulleen. Claudia Fruscalzo’s header looked destined for the net but bounced off the woodwork and the teams went in to the break on level terms.

The second half was as frenetic as the first. Emma Shields has been officially credited as conceding an own goal in the 59^th minute. However, Natasha’s Dakic’s header looked on target and she might feel aggrieved not to be listed as the scorer.

In any case, Adriana Taranto’s free-kick was perfectly hit and caused chaos in the Bulleen defence. There was no room for error when dealing with it and Calder United had a somewhat surprising but not undeserved lead.

It would not last long. Paige Zois pulled one back for the Lions just four minutes later. There was little that Dall`Oste could do to stop her from point-blank range, but the tricky midfielder stayed composed to tap the ball home.

Neither team was satisfied with a draw. But clear-cut chances were hard to come by. The ever-creative Adriana Taranto came closest in the late stages. Her long-range effort was on target but Shields saved well as she did for most of the night.

The 1-1 draw was not the worst result for either team. Bulleen maintain their spot in first place, one point clear of Heidelberg United. Calder jumped up to third on the ladder although Alamein might have a game in hand at the time of writing.

Squads: FC BULLEEN LIONS: Shields, Natoli (Govic 65′), Friuscalzo, Zois (Lettieri 87′), Burn, Little, Stott, Johnson, Vlajnic (Sernio 87′), Rodger (Dolzan 65′), Zarkos.

Scorer: Zois 63′.

CALDER UNITED: Dall`Oste, Cain (Cerne 56′), Groba, Robers, Eike, Dakic, A.Taranto, Papadopoulos (Stella 86′), Sardo, Talevski, M.Taranto

Scorer: Sheilds (OG) 59′.

Referee: Caitlin Williams

NPLW Vic Wrap:

Elsewhere in the league, there were only two other games played. Heidelberg United continued their strong start to the season with a 1-0 win over the improving FV Emerging. Emily Roach scored in the 15^th minute to secure Heidelberg’s second win of the season.

**Above:** Bayside United on the attack at Box Hill United. **Photo:** Bayside United.

Box Hill United FC and Bayside United Seniors played out a 2-2 draw across town. Amanda Stevenson took only three minutes to open the scoring for Bayside before Sofia Sakalis pulled one back for Box Hill on 34 minutes. It was the Perth Glory and former South Melbourne attacker’s first goal for her new club after returning from Young Matildas duty.

Sienna Fogarty put Bayside ahead again in the 51^st minute, but with only minutes remaining, Candela Ferreyra Bas rescued a point for Box Hill.

The draw left both sides without a win so far this season, but the return of Sakalis to the squad and the scoresheet signal for better days ahead for Box Hill.

Mulbarton Clinch Title At Hardworking Thetford

Thetford Town 0-4 Mulbarton Belles

By Darrell Allen (19/4/22)

Above: Atlanta Griffith celebrates after putting Mulbarton Belles 2-0 up. Photo: Richard Brown.

The game of the day on Easter Sunday in Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One saw Thetford Town host runaway league leaders Mulbarton Belles at Mundford Road. Mulbarton knew a point from this game or better would see them crowned step seven champions in Norfolk.

Mulbarton got a good early footing in the game, knocking the ball around well and trying to get their prolific front three of Ellie Hunter, Atlanta Griffith, and Rebekah Lake involved early on. It was Hunter who had the first opportunity when a great ball came through from midfield but Lydia Ward came out well in the Thetford goal to prevent any trouble for Town.

Mulbarton continued their early confidence and momentum but found Becky Russell in the way. The dual signed midfielder from step five Wroxham but played at centre back for Thetford last Sunday in the 4-0 victory over Beccles and impressed so much that Thetford manager David Skipp gave her the role again against the league leaders and she was a commanding prescence.

Russell’s centre back partner and Thetford stalwart Rachel Lynch was also on form in making an incredible last ditch tackle to deny Lake as Thetford bravely defended to keep the score level.

**Above:** Becky Russell (red boots) another impressive performance for Thetford Town. **Photo:** Richard Brown.

Having survived the initial early phases, Thetford then began to believe in themselves and went on the ascendancy, Abbie Corbyn and Rebecca White linked up well all afternoon and Corbyn played a delightful ball through but White could not provide an end product.

Kirsty Andrews playing in goal for Mulbarton yesterday in place of the unwell regular number one Cara Anderson was then called into action as Thetford upped the pressure. Andrews had to stop a shot from White but it then rebounded to the same player who crashed a shot against the crossbar.

Mulbarton then opened the scoring with a strike from distance from Laura Hedtke that seemed to take an age to go in and trickled past the Thetford defence and ended up in the back of Ward’s net. It was a disappointing way to go behind from a Thetford point of view.

The visitors then added a second from Hedtke’s free-kick which was superbly headed in by Griffith.

**Above:** Thetford Town player of the match Rachel Lynch heads away. **Photo:** Richard Brown.

Despite Mulbarton’s continued pressure, Thetford could be proud of their efforts. Corbyn and White linked up well as a duo. They communicated well in a shift that was always going to be difficult against the league leaders.

The second half started with Olivia Smith having a shot from distance but this was tipped over by Ward in the Town goal. Thetford responded as Russell played a wonderful ball to captain Boulton who then fired across the pitch to Corbyn who fed White but again nothing materialised.

Lake had two further chances for Mulbarton but Ward was in the way of everything that tried to find the net. However, nothing was to stop a wonderful third from distance by Sophie Jermy to put Mulbarton firmly in control.

A Mulbarton game is not complete without a Lake goal and the NWGFL legend rounded the keeper and finished well to get Mulbarton’s fourth and final goal of the match.

**Above:** Rebekah Lake (centre) celebrates after scoring Mulbarton Belles’ fourth goal. **Photo:** Richard Brown.

Thetford kept their heads and had chances to score, Russell fired over the bar before the best Thetford chance of the game saw a wonderful Boulton cross headed wide by Lynch which should have been a goal for Town but the final score ended in a 4-0 win for Mulbarton.

The final whistle saw Mulbarton officially confirmed as champions of Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One. The honour was respected by the hosts as Thetford Town gave all the Mulbarton players a guard of honour as they left the pitch and headed down the Mundford Road tunnel.

From a Thetford perspective, this was a performance to continue confidence from the previous back-to-back wins and another exciting game awaits when Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers visit Mundford Road this Sunday.

Thetford Player of the Match: Rachel Lynch

THETFORD TOWN: Ward, Hardie, Klimcke, Howard, Lynch, Russell, Corbyn, Eccles, White, Boulton, Musgrove. Substitutes: Escreet, Lloyd, Smith, Knight.

MULBARTON BELLES: Andrews, McNorton, Belsey, Smith, Belsey, Hedtke, Jermy, Hunter, Griffith, Smith, Lake. Substitutes: Smith, Anderson, Ryan, Ladbrooke, Jenkins.

Scorers: Hedtke, Griffith, Jermy, Lake.

Referee: Jaden Lister

Attendance: 50

The View From France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the 19^th round of D1 Arkema (19/4/22).

Above: Katriina Talaslahti makes a save for Fleury against Olympique Lyonnais. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Reims won 2-1 away from home against Soyaux. In a very even game, Reims was a little bit more efficient. With this win, Reims are now sure to finish no lower than seventh the standing. Goals for Reims from Kethna Louis (32), Tanya Romanenko (83). Goal for Soyaux from Camille Collin (50).

Bordeaux won 2-0 away from home against Dijon. In a game edged by Bordeaux (58% possession), they were only a little bit more efficient, and it was enough to score twice. Goals for Bordeaux from Katja Snoeijs (15), Melissa Gomes (32).

Guingamp away from home, won 3-1 against Saint-Etienne. In a game slightly dominated by Guingamp, only the shots on target made the difference between these two teams. Goals for Guingamp from Maïwen Renard (26), Sarah Cambot (36), Laurie Teinturier (65). Goal for Saint-Etienne from Kelly Gago (65).

**Above:** Rosemonde Kouassi (13 far left) scored at the 36^th minute for Fleury. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

Paris Saint-Germain won 6-1 at home against Issy. With 73% possession and 23 shots with 11 on target, Paris SG largely dominated this game and won easily even if the score was only 1-1 at half time. Goals for Paris SG from Marie-Antoinette Katoto (31, 83), Grace Geyoro (49), Sara Däbritz (65), Kadidiatou Diani (68), Ramona Bachmann (90+1). Goal for Issy from Julie Perruzzetto (35).

Olympique Lyonnais won away from home 2-1 against Fleury. Even if they dominated the game (61% possession), it was far from an easy game for Lyon. Fleury showed that they have made a lot of progress since the beginning of this season and scored first. They could have scored more goals with a little bit more efficiency in front of the goal; they hit the bar twice. We must note that most of the Lyon players were back only three days before this game from their international duty and that it had not helped them to deliver their usual game.

Katriina Talaslahti, Fleury goalkeeper, injured her right eye by one of her teammates during a corner just before Catarina Macario flag kick flew straight in. Speaking to me after the game, Talaslahti said: “I did not see clearly the ball on the corner from Catarina.” The injury was unfortunate as prior to this, the Fleury keeper made several good saves. She was replaced just after the goal after 62 minutes. I just had a talk with Talaslahti while I am finishing this report, on April 18 in the evening, and she told me: “It’s better now, I will see the doctor tomorrow morning.” Goals for Lyon from Katariina Talslahti (37 Own Goal), Catarina Macario (60). Goal for Fleury from Rosemonde Kouassi (36).

**Above:** Own goal from Katriina Talaslahti following a shot from Lyon’s Delphine Cascarino just under the crossbar. **Photo:** Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*

Paris FC won 3-1 at home against Montpellier. The pressure from Montpellier’s players during the first quarter prevented Paris from getting going. Then the game was pretty even with Paris FC having more opportunities, but their strikers did not always make the best decision. At the 24^th minute, after a clearance by Lisa Schmitz, the Montpellier goalkeeper, following a shot from Rachel Corboz and a block on the line by Maellys Mpomé, Clara Matéo opened the score.

One minute later, Ouleymata Sarr scored on a counterattack after a pass from Gaétane Thiney. Then, at the end of the first half, Lisa Schmitz was not lucky because Gaétane Thiney put her penalty against the cross bar, but the ball bounced onto her back to finish in the net.

At the beginning of second half, Mathilde Bourdieu had a huge opportunity to score for Montpellier, but she lost her one to one by shooting directly on the goalkeeper. Montpellier had a very good first quarter, and Mathilde Bourdieu had two other opportunities without scoring: at the 50^th minute when she put the ball over the cross bar from 6 meters, and at the 62^nd minute when she put again the ball at the goalkeeper who cleared with her hands. With this win, and the loss of Fleury, Paris FC are now sure to finish third in the standing and qualify for the UEFA Women Champions League next season. Goals for Paris FC from Clara Matéo (24), Ouleymata Sarr (25), Lisa Schmitz (41 Own Goal). Goal for Montpellier from Nérilia Mondésir (50).

Norwich End Dons Seven Month Unbeaten Run To Stay Up

Norwich City 1-0 AFC Wimbledon

By George Jones – AFC Wimbledon Ladies (18/4/22).

Above: Action from The Nest. Photo: Glyn Roberts.

AFC Wimbledon suffered their first league defeat since August on Sunday as they slipped to a disappointing 1-0 defeat away to Norwich City. A result that saves the hosts from relegation out of the FA Women’s National Leagues.

Wimbledon went into the game without Kelly Highman, Steph Mann, and Captain Hannah Billingham who were all unavailable. However, it presented the opportunity to Dons U23s players Remmi Gardner and Olivia Clement to potentially make their league debut from the subs bench.

The game itself got off to a scrappy start with both Faye Baker and the Norwich keeper Bryony Williams was called into action in the first 10 minutes. However, then it looked like the Dons were starting to control the game even if they did lack the composure that’s normally a key part of their game.

Despite that, with 30 minutes gone Norwich took the lead with the ball being bundled past Faye Baker in the Dons goal by Ellie Smith. With the visitors lacking the clinical edge up front and snatching at several half chances we went into the break a goal down.

The second half followed much of the same fashion with Wimbledon taking shots from long range forcing the Norwich keeper Williams into action, however, the Dons never really looked like scoring, and the game ended in the Canaries’ favour.

Speaking afterwards, Dons’ Emily Donovan said “Credit to Norwich they did not give up, they pushed us hard and had a lot to play for today, and ultimately they have gone and got it so credit to them.”

First-team coach Andy May wasn’t overly impressed by his team’s performance: “Firstly credit to Norwich, they came here with a game plan and a result that they needed and they have gone and got that result and made things difficult for us.

“At the same time that is not a performance that we are proud of, we didn’t do the basics that we look for, didn’t set the standards, the tempo or the intensity that we look for.”

Next up for AFC Wimbledon is the FA Women’s National League Plate Final against Nottingham Forest taking place on Sunday 24th with an 11 am kickoff. This game is being played at Solihull Moors.

Teams: NORWICH CITY: Williams, Johnston, Larkins, Drake, Daviss, Smith, Snelling, Todd, Stanley, Bishop, Harper. Substitutes: Gambell, Symonds, Gooding, Ward, Fuller.

Scorer: Smith 33′.

AFC WIMBLEDON: Baker, Russell (Clement) Fowler (Childerhouse), Sargent, Oliver, Stow, Donovan, Taylor, Hincks, Sampson (Stanley), Carter (Gardner). Unused Sub: Allen (GK).

NPL WA Women Round Three Wrap

Ben Gilby provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Western Australia NPL Women’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos (18/4/22).

Above: An aerial challenge at Dorrien Gardens where Perth SC (blue) hosted Curtin University. Photo: Rob Lizzi.

MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:

Perth RedStar 3-2 Fremantle City

**Above:** Jacinta Coleman (middle) celebrates putting Perth RedStar 3-1 up over Fremantle City. **Photo:** NPL

Perth RedStar ran out winners against a Fremantle City side who battled for over an hour with only 10 players.

This was the battle of the only teams in the competition that had won their opening two games. Freo produced an excellent backs to the wall performance in the face of a second-half RedStar onslaught which saw goalkeeper Dayle Schroeder make a number of superb saves, and her teammates reduced the deficit back to just a single goal with five minutes remaining.

The second yellow card for Fremantle’s Siobhan Longmore after 27 minutes was a big setback for the visitors who were gradually growing into the game after RedStar, fielding A-League Women and former Matildas star Kim Carroll for the first time this season, started strong.

The initial momentum for Perth RedStar saw them take the lead with seven minutes played. Longmore lost possession to Olivia Wood who got away before the visitors initially looked to have snuffed out the danger, only to lose the ball again which allowed Larissa Walsh to hit a rising shot into the net off the underside of the bar. It was a superb way for Walsh to mark her 230th game for the club.

It took until the 15-minute mark for Freo to settle, and build a possession-based game around triangular passing moves, but they were still finding it challenging to get out of their own half.

A microcosm of the game in this spell came when the visitors passed the ball around inside their own half before losing possession which allowed Jacinta Coleman to feed Andreia Teixeira. She in turn fed Wood who broke clean through, but was denied by the legs of Schroeder in the Freo goal. Teixeira was involved once more shortly afterwards as Ruby Cohen profited from loose Fremantle play on the right to play the ball across, but the finish was too high.

**Above:** Jessica Darmago (facing camera arm raised) celebrates after putting Fremantle City level. **Photo:** NPL.

With 25 minutes played Freo were level. Longmore was wide on the left well inside her own half and beat two RedStars before playing a superb long ball across for Jessica Darmago who turned and beat Sarah Carroll before looping a shot into the far corner of the net. A goal that may well have deflected off of the Perth Glory A-League Women defender, but Darmago’s skill after superb play from Longmore in the build-up was worthy of a reward.

However, just two minutes later, Fremantle joy turned to misery as Longmore was shown a second yellow card for what could be described as a “tasty” challenge on Wood.

Perth RedStar looked to focus their attacks immediately along Freo’s left where Longmore had been prominent. Coleman created a chance, pulling back to Walsh, but Perth Glory A-League Women captain Tash Rigby got back well to block.

To their credit, the visitors rallied in adversity with Laura Waltman looking calm and cultured on the ball. Before the break, she fed Mikayla Lyons who was denied by RedStar keeper Shivani Battaglia.

The home team came out for the second half on the front foot and dominated. Within six minutes of the restart, Kim Carroll’s free-kick on the far right-hand side was lifted high towards Coleman at the back post where her shot was blocked by Schroeder. The rebound fell to substitute Renee Leota, but the shot was wide of the right-hand post.

Four minutes later, Schroeder was called into action once more and made a superb save to deny Leota at the left-hand post. The pressure continued to rise on the visitors. As Leota broke clean through, Schroeder repelled the shot brilliantly with Walsh putting the follow-up over the bar.

Walsh had another opportunity shortly afterwards, as she broke through, but Rigby chased back and forced the RedStar sharpshooter to rush a shot wide.

**Above:** Larissa Walsh hits hers and Perth RedStar’s second goal against Fremantle City. **Photo:** NPL.

However, with 67 minutes on the clock, Walsh had better luck. Shawn Bilham’s long ball for Leota saw the former Football Ferns star feed Wood in space. Walsh got away from Rigby to score her fifth goal of the season.

Four minutes later, it was 3-1 as a poor clearance from Schroeder went straight to Leota. The sub was able to feed Coleman who advanced and fired into the bottom corner.

Perth RedStar continued to press but were unable to add to their tally. With five minutes remaining, Freo gained some reward for their hugely creditable efforts. Former W-League player Jamie-Lee Gale’s corner was played inside for Dormago and back for Rigby on the right to lift a high ball in. Kate Nolan leapt highest of all at the back post to head in and reduce the arrears to a single goal.

Perth RedStar undoubtedly deserved their third win from three games this season to move clear at the top of the table, scoring a total of 14 goals in the process. For Fremantle City, there will be thoughts of what might have been had Longmore stayed on the field. They face a tough run of fixtures in the coming weeks when they will take on both Perth SC and Murdoch University Melville.

Squads: PERTH REDSTAR: Battaglia, S.Carroll, Walsh, K.Carroll, Walsh, Bilham, Wood, Dunn, Cohen, Teixeira, Monteiro, Coleman. Substitutes: Larsen, De Leo, Doan, Leota, Mogridge, Inch, Diederichsen.

Scorers: Walsh 7′, 67′. Coleman 71′.

FREMANTLE CITY: Schroeder, Boyle, Waltman, Lyons, Longmore, McCulloch, Leek, Darmago, Rigby, Gale, Poad. Substitutes: Buxey, Lush, Nolan, Casilli.

Scorers: Darmago 25′, Nolan 85′.

Referee: Peter Kaiser.

ROUND THREE WRAP:

Round Three opened on Good Friday as Hyundai NTC hosted defending champions Murdoch University Melville (MUM) at E&D Litis Stadium.

**Above:** Hyundai NTC about to take the lead against Murdoch University Melville from the penalty spot. **Photo:** NPL.

MUM were strong on the offensive from the start, forcing three corners in the opening 16 minutes along with five shots on target. Yet it was the NTC who took the lead with half an hour on the clock from the penalty spot.

The youngsters held their lead until the 74th minute when Clara Hoarau gained possession and played a 1-2 with Elysse Shore who crossed in from the left. NTC had two opportunities to clear, but Murdoch earned the ball back allowing Nikita Strickling to turn and side foot the ball home from around 15 yards.

**Above:** Scenes of joy as Perth SC saw off Curtin University at Dorrien Gardens. **Photo:** Rob Lizzi.

Perth SC moved up to third place with a 2-0 win over a winless Curtin University side at Dorrien Gardens.

The home side went ahead five minutes before the break when an attempt to play out from the back by captain Stephanie Waycott went straight to a sky blue shirt on the left and a ball in found Abbey Meakins who laid off a perfect pass to Ella Lincoln to sweep home.

It took Perth SC until the 80th minute to double their lead. A ball out to the left found Jaime Duncanson who squared for Meakins to smash home a superb shot from an acute angle. It was a deserved goal for a player who had been impressive during the game.

The match between Subiaco and Balcatta Etna was postponed, and will now be played on 24th July at Rosalie Park.

	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts	GD
Perth RedStar	3	3	0	0	14	3	9	+11
Fremantle City	3	2	0	1	8	4	6	+4
Perth SC	3	2	0	1	6	3	6	+3
Murdoch University Melville	3	1	2	0	3	2	5	+1
Hyundai NTC	3	1	1	1	4	8	4	-4
Subiaco	2	0	1	1	1	4	1	-3
Balcatta Etna	2	0	0	2	0	3	0	-3
Curtin University	3	0	0	3	1	10	0	-9

Round Four Fixtures: Curtin University v Murdoch University Melville, Hyundai NTC v Balcatta Etna, Fremantle City v Perth SC, Perth RedStar v Subiaco.

**Above:** Curtin University and Perth SC battle it out earlier today. **Photo:** Rob Lizzi.

Matildas v Football Ferns Gallery

Impetus’ Kris Goman was pitchside for us in Canberra last week. In her third photo gallery from the game, she brings you the best of the match action (18/4/22).

Above: Sam Kerr prepares to shoot. Photo: Kris Goman.

Kris’ two other galleries from the match can be seen here:

Post-Match photos: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/04/14/post-match-gallery-matildas-v-football-ferns/

Aivi Luik head shave for Brain Cancer: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/04/14/aivi-luik-shaves-hair-for-brain-cancer-research/

It’s A Blue Day At Meadow Park

Arsenal 0-2 Chelsea

Words and Photos by Ben Gilby at Meadow Park (17/4/22)

Above: Winners are grinners – Jess Carter and Beth England are all smiles at the final whistle as Chelsea made it to Wembley. Photo: Ben Gilby.

**Above:** Meadow Park was packed for today’s FA Cup Semi-Final. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Chelsea’s ruthless second-half performance was more than enough to overcome Arsenal at a packed Meadow Park this afternoon as the holders made it through to a Wembley showdown with Manchester City next month.

**Above:** Beth Mead leaps for the ball for Arsenal between Chelsea’s Guro Reiten (11) and Sophie Ingle. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Whilst this game was far from the classic league encounter at Kingsmeadow or Chelsea’s sumptuous Wembley dismissal of the Gunners in December, the Blues proved once more that when it really matters, they can take their chances.

**Above:** Arsenal and Australia’s Steph Catley – just one of a number of players who only returned to club training at the end of this week. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

The timing of this showdown was not helped by coming just days after the international window which saw both teams only being able to train with full numbers at the very last minute. Chelsea boss Emma Hayes identified this fact in her Friday media conference saying that teams “take a while to gel again after the international break.” This was certainly the case in the first half.

**Above:** Katie McCabe looks for options in the box in the first half. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

It was Arsenal who settled first and had slightly more of the offensive play, but Jess Carter was outstanding at the back, shutting down any potential danger before the threat honed in on goal.

**Above:** Millie Bright (left) looks to close down. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Carter has grown hugely throughout the season. Earlier on, there were occasions when she appeared vulnerable against the very top players, but those days are long gone now. She has the strength, pace, and belief to mix it with and beat the very best. How she deserves the plaudits and international recognition that has come her way.

In truth, the first half was largely played out in the middle third and there was only one real opportunity that fell the way of Vivianne Miedema, but the shot went over the bar.

**Above:** Millie Bright looks to get up as a ball comes into the box. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Chelsea came out for the second period looking both energised and determined. There was a pep in their passing and crispness of vision that wasn’t quite there in the opening 45 minutes.

The outcome of this match effectively came within five minutes of the re-start. Beth Mead broke through for Arsenal but hit an effort wide. Chelsea’s characteristic ruthlessness then broke through to show the Gunners the importance of taking chances as Norwegian star Guro Reiten fired home a rocket shot from the edge of the box.

**Above:** Guro Reiten, Chelsea’s first goal scorer tackles Beth Mead. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

The Blues kept pushing with Beth England a ball of energy and Ji becoming more involved across the midfield.

After Gunners keeper Manuela Zinsberger was forced to deny both Sophie Ingle and Reiten, it was the Korean magician who pulled out her magic wand to double Chelsea’s advantage by smashing a shot in off the crossbar before being buried by an avalanche of team-mates.

**Above:** Chelsea celebrate Ji’s goal which put them 2-0 up and earned their place at Wembley. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Arsenal brought on Frida Maanum, Nikita Parris, and Tobin Heath, but Chelsea were comfortable in the closing stages. Emma Hayes’ side are back at Wembley and for the second domestic Cup Final this season face Manchester City. It’s going to be quite a game.

**Above:** Tobin Heath’s introduction was not enough for Arsenal. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Teams: ARSENAL (4-3-3): Zinsburger, McCabe, Williamson, Wubben-Moy, Catley, Little, Miedema, Wälti, Mead, Blackstenius, Foord. Substitutes used: Maanum (for Wälti), Parris (for Blackstenius), Heath (for Foord).

CHELSEA (3-5-2): Bright, Nouwen, Carter, Charles, Ingle, Ji, Cuthbert, Reiten, England, Kerr. Substitutes used: Fleming (for Ji), Harder (for Kerr).

Scorers: Reiten 50′, Ji 61′.

Referee: Rebecca Welch.

Attendance: 3,458.

Emma Hayes: Squad Selection, Fran Kirby & Focus on Wembley

Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Chelsea boss Emma Hayes at her media conference today ahead of their FA Cup Semi-Final against Arsenal on Easter Sunday (15/4/22).

Above: Emma Hayes talking to the media this afternoon. Photo: Chelsea FC Women.

Chelsea head coach Emma Hayes goes into Sunday’s semi-final at Boreham Wood against Arsenal unsure of who is available for selection.

With members of her squad returning to club training from international duty at different times at the end of this week, final decisions will not be made until tomorrow (Saturday). However, The Blues boss was able to confirm that Pernille Harder is likely to be available, but there is contrasting news about Fran Kirby.

Hayes revealed that it is still likely to be some time before the Lionesses star will be able to return due to long-term struggles with exhaustion that the club’s medical team are still investigating.

“Not everyone is in full training today (Friday) due to arriving back from international duty at different times. Pernille (Harder) will be back. I can’t name the team until tomorrow as, due to the nature of the international break, some of them are still recovering from their games.”

In terms of Kirby, the Chelsea head coach went into a bit more detail about the difficulties that the player is experiencing.

**Above:** Fran Kirby who, according to Emma Hayes is unlikely to return for Chelsea or England “for the foreseeable future.” **Photo:** Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images.

“There is no chance of Fran playing. She has been taking some time in the background, suffering with a lot of fatigue. I don’t have a definitive reason why. We are trying to get to the bottom of it and find the right solutions. It’s been ongoing and until we do get to the bottom of it, she won’t be available for selection.

“Forget the athlete. There is a human being involved and she is struggling. We need to get to the bottom of that. Until we understand some of the underlying reasons for the fatigue, I would be just speculating. It’s a process of elimination to try and determine why she is struggling the way she is.

“This is not the first time, it’s been going on for a lot of years if I’m honest. We need to give the time to find the right support so we can come up with a diagnosis. Then we can come up with strategies. Right now, I don’t have any answers other than to say she won’t be available for club or country for the foreseeable future.”

Hayes was though able to provide some reassurance about Beth England and Niamh Charles who missed England’s international in North Macedonia due to testing positive with COVID by saying: “We have a medical briefing later today. I don’t believe that there is any fall-out from those who got COVID during the international window.”

Focusing specifically on the occasion of Sunday’s FA Cup Semi-Final, the Chelsea head coach is revelling at the challenge, which she feels is additionally complex this time round due to coming immediately after the international break.

**Above:** Emma Hayes at today’s media conference. **Photo:** Chelsea FC Women.

“This is what you go to work for, to compete for these special occasions. There is no greater privilege than to play for a place in an FA Cup Final. Playing against Arsenal, we’ve had a lot of battles against them over the years. I certainly enjoy those games.

“I always think that the first game after an international window always makes things difficult. Normally you get a week’s build-up. We only have one training session when we all come back together.

“Performances can take a while to gel again, so the qualities for us to build on are the clear sheets that we’ve worked on this side of January. Most importantly we need to be clinical. It’s a big area for us. The conversion rate is a big difference – the number of goals we’ve put away in recent games compared to previous performances.”

This is a cup semi-final, it’s two really good sides who have battled it out all year. We’ve been in this position enough times to know what to expect. We have a top group of players here.

“I have a game plan in mind, but we need everyone to recover. Tomorrow at training I will be able to pick a team. As long as everyone knows their roles and how to make the impact we need, we’ll be fine.”

**Above:** Chelsea lift the 2021 FA Cup after comprehensively beating Arsenal 3-0 at Wembley. **Photo:** James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images.

Whilst the two teams know each other very well, most notably from December’s 2021 FA Cup Final which Chelsea comprehensively won 3-0, Hayes doesn’t see any way that the previous encounters will influence what happens on Sunday.

“There have been good battles between us and Arsenal over the years. I think they have had a tremendous season. We’re neck-and-neck with them in every competition. They are at home, it’s sold out. We’ll have to suffer at times in the game. We will cause them problems. Previous results are not indicative of what happens.”

With the match at Boreham Wood FC a 4,500 sell-out, the Blues boss believes it is time to reconsider the venues for FA Cup semi-finals to allow more fans in.

“I supported the move in the past to play semi-finals at the home ground stadiums because the neutral venues that were available were so poor as better ones couldn’t be booked in time. You played in places where the pitches weren’t brilliant and the fans couldn’t get down to.

“Maybe we need to have conversations now about whether we need neutral venues just because of the way that our game is going. Perhaps those semi-finals could be more well attended if we open them up. Not necessarily Wembley, but elsewhere for fan reasons.”