In the latest of our series reviewing the season with Impetus’ sponsored players and partner clubs, Brighouse Town’s Leah Embley spoke to Ben Gilby about her superb first season at the Yorkshire club who flourished in their maiden Tier Three campaign in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier(16/6/22).
Above: Leah Embley (left) in action for Brighouse Town in their superb draw at eventual National League Northern Premier champions Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux. Photo supplied by: Leah Embley.
Leah came into Brighouse Town from Championship side Blackburn Rovers ahead of their first ever campaign in the third tier of the women’s game, and the season went about as well as it could have done both for her personally, and her team.
“I think we’ve had a great first season in tier three. We’ve taken points off a lot of the top teams in this league and I think that just shows how good a group we’ve got,” the star attacker enthused.
As well as an excellent league campaign, Brighouse Town lifted the County Cup with a dramatic victory over Leeds United in the Final. Brighouse were leading before Leeds levelled in the dying moments of the second half, which took the final to a penalty shoot out. Leah was of those who stood up to dispatch a penalty to win the trophy. She looks back on the game with real pride.
“I thought first half we dominated, we were comfortable on the ball and Leeds didn’t really trouble us. I thought we had a few chances where we could have killed the game off early doors. In the second half, we lost our way a little bit and it became a battle, we didn’t really keep hold of possession and Leeds threatened us.
Above: Leah Embley pictured with the County Cup after Brighouse Town’s dramatic win over Leeds United in the Final. Photo supplied by: Leah Embley.
“Luckily we won on penalties otherwise it would have been a very disappointing night. I really enjoyed playing in it, the crowd was amazing and when I walked out from the changing rooms to the pitch I couldn’t believe how many people had come down to support. It was a great occasion for women’s football and we topped it off by bringing the trophy home.”
As well as a successful campaign results-wise, Leah sees the season as one which was hugely positive personally on a more fundamental level.
“I think a big thing for me was getting my confidence back and enjoying my football. I’ve scored goals this season and put myself in a position where I knew the team could rely on me to put the ball in the back of the net. I think 26 goals in one season is a massive achievement and one I am proud of.
“From a team perspective, we’ve had some really good performances, everybody wants to work hard and put a shift in and I think you can tell that in some of our results against Wolves and Derby County. I was welcomed into the team from the start and I was made to feel part of it from the staff and players straight away which I think is massive.”
Above: Leah Embley in possession at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Photo supplied by: Leah Embley.
Leah touched on her goal scoring record, but among those 26 were a fair number of absolutely sensational strikes. That is something that the Brighouse star puts down to getting her confidence back since moving to the club for this season.
“Haha! Yes, I’ve scored a few good ones. I think I went through a spell when every goal I scored was a special one. I think it goes back to having the confidence to shoot from them kind of areas. Finishing is something I know is one of my strengths, even though I’m not an out-and-out number nine, I always felt like I could score in every single game. The confidence I had in myself this season was top class and I think some of my goals showed that. This is probably the best goal-scoring season that I’ve had.”
As always, there were challenging moments during the campaign, and Leah specifically found the number of midweek games her team had to play towards the end of the season was tough.
“They were a struggle not physically but mentally. When you get the win you feel like it’s worth it but they are hard games.”
Above: Leah Embley in action for Brighouse Town – she can see nothing but more good times ahead for the club next season. Photo supplied by: Leah Embley.
With the club comfortably securing another season in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier, the Brighouse attacker sees more positive times ahead next season. “I think with another pre-season together gelling as a team, we can punishing opponents more when we get in the final third. It’ll be another great season next season.
“Before we finish, I want to make clear how much I’ve really appreciated all the support I’ve received from Impetus this season and it has really driven me to keep performing. A massive thank you for everything this season and hopefully you’ve enjoyed being part of the journey.”
We certainly have, and everyone connected with the site is really excited to see what comes next for both Leah Embley and Brighouse Town.
In the latest of our WA On Wednesday interviews featuring players from the NPL WA Women’s competition, Subiaco‘s Keziah Burgis talks to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about the tough first year for the club in the competition,her pride in her team’s continual growth, and the difficulties that women’s football needs to overcome in Western Australia(15/6/22).
Above: Keziah Burgis (left) – a key part of Subiaco’s growth in the NPL WA. Photo: Fotoenzo, supplied by Keziah Burgis.
Whilst Keziah Burgis has been a key part of the Subiaco team for several years now, she came to football quite late, as she explains.
“I was introduced to soccer in my last few years of high school. I did soccer as a subject to make friends and have a run around at school. I didn’t join a club until after I graduated high school. This will be my fifth year playing for a club, my fourth year at Subiaco, and my third year in the NPL.”
Keziah describes herself as “a very physical player. As a wingback, I love one on one challenges, where my strength and speed can be utilised. I compete in CrossFit during the off-season so I am always working on fitness and strength. Since being at Subiaco, I have been lucky to partake in additional technical sessions and receive lots of constructive criticism. My technical ability has improved a lot since being in the NPL, but is definitely something I want to continue to improve on.”
With this being the third season of NPL competition in Western Australia, Keziah has been part of a Subi team who has made the jump from State League to the new level. It’s been a challenge, with players making real sacrifices for their club. It shows that there is huge pride in the shirt and a desire to grow. The consequence is now that Subiaco are bridging that gap with signs of real progress, particularly this season. Keziah reflected on the experience.
“The first year in the NPL, it’s well known Subiaco finished bottom of the ladder without a win. The gap between the state league and NPL was more than I think any of our team could have anticipated. Our squad also suffered numerous injuries, including our goalkeeper, Marissa Pigeon, breaking her finger early on in the season.
“As a result of injuries, a lot of players, including myself, would play back-to-back games to ensure we could field both a U23s and first-team each week. While not much went our way the first year, we had a dedicated coach in Iain Jolly and a great captain in Jennifer Walsh, who both pushed our team to work harder and develop our skills.
“Subiaco finished last again in the second year of the NPL, but that result, in no way, reflected the exponential improvement. Our coach, captain, and countless other important players and staff stayed on to ensure that we continued to head in the right direction.
Above: The Subiaco team that won their first-ever NPL game against Fremantle City. Photo via: Keziah Burgis.
“We also managed to get a few new players which helped out with the depth of the squad. Subi won its first game against one of the top teams, Fremantle City. Our squad went on to win another game against NTC, and were very unlucky not to have had other wins. To top it off, our goalkeeper, Marissa Pigeon, won goalkeeper of the year. While the end result was not ideal, and perhaps unlucky, the hard work everyone put in did not go unnoticed.
“While finishing on the bottom of the ladder was a hard blow, I strongly believe Subiaco developed over the last season more than any other team. We worked a lot on fitness outside of training and the club organised for players to have access to additional technical sessions. I think our development and club culture has been a significant factor in attracting a number of new players this year.”
That continued development has continued this season as Subiaco won plaudits for performances in the opening weeks, including a superb effort against unbeaten league leaders Perth RedStar last weekend. Keziah is delighted in the way things are going but sees the potential for further growth.
“This year in the NPL, Subi has continued to improve. The goal of Subiaco has always been to play possession-based football and our new coach, Greg Farrell, has been an ideal fit to continue on from the foundations that our former coach laid down.
“We also are very lucky to have Chelsie Winchcombe join our team this year, who has made team of the week numerous times already. She has been an amazing role model and provided the team with a wealth of experience and guidance. With the amount of new players on the squad, there have been a few growing pains, but I have no doubt that Subiaco will only get stronger and stronger.
“Subiaco started the campaign with, barring a few players, a completely different squad from the previous season. The Night Series was a challenge with the squad not having had much of a chance to play together. With the start of the regular season, after Greg Farrell stepped in as coach, the squad really started coming together.
“Playing a possession-based game, we have had a few games we have conceded easily from making mistakes. However, we have shown numerous times this season, that we are capable of putting pressure and holding the ball up against top teams. We have a squad that’s very capable as individuals, with young players such as Zara Board, who has been selected for the Junior Matildas.
“The task now is to gel together as a team, and with the guidance of Greg and our captain Chelsie, this has started to come together. As we continue to develop as a squad and learn from mistakes made, I see no reason why Subiaco can’t push to be in the top four.”
Above: Keziah Burgis (left) in possession against Perth SC. Photo: Fotoenzo, supplied by Keziah Burgis.
Every team in the NPL WA has had to overcome the challenges of COVID this season, which has seen numerous postponements and clubs needing to play midweek games to catch up. Keziah outlined the difficulties it has imposed.
“It can be difficult when almost every week a different starting team takes the field. Building momentum and consistency is hard when COVID has left many uncertainties about the team that will be playing each week, or whether there will be a game at all. One positive about COVID is that it has given a number of the under-21s a chance to step up and play for the first team. Our first team and under-21s coach have worked together to develop the whole squad so that players are ready to play when they get called up and thus far have done a great job.”
On a personal level, this season has been a real challenge for Keziah who suffered serious injury. “My biggest challenge in football has come this year in the form of a dislocated knee cap. Having started every game for Subiaco over the previous two seasons, it has been really hard to sit back and not play. However, watching my team play, I can see how far we have come since we first started in the NPL, so I am really keen to get back out there and play again.”
“My overall aim for the season is to become a more well-rounded player. Sometimes my lack of experience shows in my decision making and it has been something I have consistently tried to work on. For Subiaco as a team, the aim is pretty straightforward, to play possession-based football. We want to continue to hold the ball up and pressure teams, while working towards minimising the mistakes. Subiaco has been developing as a squad since we started in the NPL and this year it’s no different, we always want to do, and be better, than the last game.
Looking more widely, Keziah shares the commonly held view around the competition that NPL in WA looks a lot different this year than it did last year. “One of the only teams that has shown a lot of consistency is Perth RedStar. It feels like every game you don’t know what to expect. I believe this is largely due to COVID as well as the departure of a number of players from last year. It has been said time and time again that there are not enough pathways for females in Western Australia to move up from the NPL. Playing soccer in WA, I think you have to sacrifice a lot of time with not as much reward as players would like.”
The most prominent theme that cropped up time and time again in our discussion was Keziah’s sheer passion and pride for her club. She ended our chat by outlining why this was so prominent.
“It’s hard to sum up the best thing about playing for Subiaco. For me, what’s kept me coming back to play has been the culture. Since the beginning of the NPL, there has been a strong focus on player development and learning. Part of the learning process is making mistakes, but rather than playing the ‘blame game’, our team has worked together to improve and stop making the mistakes.
“Especially in the first year of the NPL, which was undoubtedly the toughest year, the players in the squad were the reason I kept coming back to training and giving 100% in games. Being surrounded by players that genuinely want to see you do well and help you improve is something I have always valued with Subiaco.”
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos (15/6/22).
Above: Alana Jancevski who put Bulleen Lions in front ahead of Bayside United. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Bulleen Lions 3-2 Bayside United
Bulleen Lions FC would have been confident going into this game with Bayside United. Caitlin Friend’s team had gone three games without a win. Although the only defeat in that run was 1-0 to fellow title contenders Calder United, they needed to reverse that form.
The last time these two teams met, Bayside was subjected to a 7-0 loss. After starting the season relatively competitively, they began losing by huge margins culminating in a 9-0 defeat away to South Melbourne. A 5-2 loss against Heidelberg United showed that they could still cause problems, but they sat at the bottom of the table with the league’s worst defensive record.
Things looked to be going as planned for Bulleen early on. Coco Parker may have given them an early scare when she almost scored in the opening minutes, but Bulleen were 1-0 up after 11 minutes.
Alana Jancevski created some space for herself on the edge of the penalty box. Once she gets on to her left foot, it usually spells trouble and her strike was too powerful for Kelsey Quinn. The Bayside goalkeeper was well positioned but after a deflection, the ball squirmed beyond her and into the net.
That chance had come from a Bayside turnover. A short goal kick quickly succumbed to the Bulleen press and the mistake was punished. It was not one that Bayside would make again. For much of this season, they have struggled to control the midfield. After that goal, they started to bypass it with longer, more direct balls towards Parker and Maryam Anvari up front.
Above: Coco Parker, who was influential for Bayside United at the weekend. Artwork: Bayside United.
Jancevski almost scored a spectacular second. Receiving the ball on the wing, she tried to catch Quinn by surprise with a curling effort from almost 40 yards. The keeper had to get down low to block it, but it was another example of what the Bulleen attacker can do without hesitation or warning.
Somewhat surprisingly, Bayside turned their effort into an equaliser. An intercepted pass on the flank led to a cross from Molly-May Ramsay. Anvari lifted the ball onward where Parker rose highest and levelled the scores with a close-range header.
Parker continued to cause problems for the Bulleen defence in her best performance of the season, but the next clear chance fell to the Lions and Melbourne Victory skipper Lia Privitelli.
Emily Dolzan passed the ball inboard from the right and Privitelli raced clear of the defenders. She composed herself before placing the ball past Quinn but unfortunately not the post.
Quinn had done very well to come off her line and close as much space as possible, Privitelli’s search for a first goal this season continued.
Above: Lia Privitelli, two goals for Bulleen Lions from the Melbourne Victory A-League Women star. Photo: Sam Anfield
She made no mistake with her next chance. After running onto a bouncing ball, she shimmied around Quinn to finish and give Bulleen a 2-1 lead.
Bayside almost restored parity after another chance was created by Parker’s persistence. Her ball across the face of goal was dangerous but Kirstie Shearing’s shot was saved by Emily Shields.
Jancevski continued to search for second. Her movement from a set play created an opening but her shot curled away from the goal.
Bayside kept attacking. They had a newfound confidence and purpose in their play. Substitute Julia Budiongo charged down the right-wing and slipped an excellent pass through to Anvari. The striker shot first time and Shields was able to get a touch to it, but it was not enough to stop it from bobbling over the line and making it 2-2.
Budiongo’s impact continued. Late in the game, she had a claim for a penalty after trying to wriggle through Bulleen’s defence. The referee was well placed to make a quick decision and called for play to continue.
The winner eventually came late, heartbreakingly so for Bayside United. Fittingly it was Bulleen’s captain who did the job. Rosie Rodger turned cleverly in midfield and played a good pass into the path of Privitelli. She surged into the penalty box from a wide area and finished off on her right foot for an 88th-minute goal.
Bayside did enough to deserve a draw against a highly fancied opponent, but they should be buoyed by their ability to relieve pressure on themselves and put it directly on the opposition. Bulleen will be relieved to win, but they had the polish and composure when it mattered.
Artwork: Bulleen Lions.
Their dip in form is not all that surprising. They have plenty of Melbourne Victory and City players in the squad. The problem is that they have plenty of Melbourne Victory and City players in their squad. Both of these teams had exhausting, intense A-League seasons that ended late into the finals. Fatigue may be an issue. The other is losing high-quality players to international camps like Zois.
Caitlin Friend still has them playing winning football and they still sit comfortable third with only two losses so far.
Above: Caitlin Pickett’s South Melbourne saw their winning run come to an end at the weekend. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
In other games, South Melbourne’s momentum was halted by FV Emerging’s 2-0 win. Two wonder strikes by Ellie Vlarminck and Isabella Sewards were enough to lift the NTC side to fifth on the table. It was Sewards’ 100th NPLW game and she celebrated in style.
Above: Calder United (green) in action against Heidelberg United. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
Calder United continued their winning ways with a 1-0 win in the top-of-the-table clash with Heidelberg United. Adriana Taranto’s first-half goal was all that separated the two teams. Calder now have a five-point lead in first place.
Above: Alamein (red) in possession at Box Hill United. Photo: Box Hill United.
Box HillUnited and Alamein met on the Friday night, with Alamein coming away 2-1 winners over the home side. Nia Stamatoploulos opened the scoring for Alamein in the 27th minute, with Elaina Vatcky doubling the lead before halftime. Melinda Barbieri pulled one back for the home side in the 83rd minute but Alamein held on for a win to keep them in fourth place on the table.
Ben Gilby rounds up all the action fromboth the Damallsvenskan and Elitettan as their mid-season break draws ever closer (14/6/22).
Above: In-form Hammarby celebrate after their latest victory – 4-0 against IFK Kalmar. Photo: Hammarby IF.
DAMALLSVENSKAN
Above: Vittsjö’s Clare Polkinghorne keeps her eye on the ball against BK Häcken on Sunday. Photo: BK Häcken.
BK Häcken‘s poor run, which has seen them lose their last two and take only four points from the last 15 available continued as they went down 3-2 at home to Vittsjö in front of 1,028 fans.
Matildas star Clare Polkinghorne started for Vittsjö with international teammate Katrina Gorry on the bench, and their side went ahead just before the half-hour through Sandra Adolfsson, yet the lead only lasted eight minutes as Mille Gejl Jansen levelled. It remained level until the 59th minute when the visitors re-took the lead thanks to Jutta Rantala and a decisive 3-1 scoreline was earned when Linda Sällström fed Clara Markstedt to score. Marika Lundin gave BK Häcken hope within two minutes, but the visitors earned the points which put them up to fifth, just behind Häcken on goal difference.
Above: Rosengård celebrate during their win over Umeå – they are now five points clear at the top. Photo: FC Rosengård.
Rosengård moved five points clear at the top, and are now 10 ahead of perennial title rivals BK Häcken after a 5-2 win at home to Umeå IK in front of 1,181 fans. Teagan Micah continued her form in goal, with Charli Grant not selected for this encounter. The defending champions were 2-0 up at the break after goals from Katrine Vejle and Olivia Schough. Two further strikes in four minutes at the start of the second half sealed the outcome as Sofia Bredgaard and Loreta Kullashi netted. An own goal six minutes from time further increased Rosengård’s advantage. Umeårallied with two goals in the final three minutes thanks to Lisa Dahlqvist and Villemo Dahlqvist which will frustrate the hosts. However, it looks hard to see anyone stopping Rosengård from adding another Damallsvenskan title to the Svenska Cupen that they have already put in the cabinet this season.
Above: Hammarby celebrate during their 4-0 win against IFK Kalmar. They are in red hot form right now. Photo: Hammarby IF.
Hammarby‘s sensational run continued with a fifth successive win as they comfortably saw off IFK Kalmar 4-0 in front of 983 ecstatic fans. In-form Courtney Nevin started, with Kyra Cooney-Cross listed on the bench, without coming on. Hammarby also has former Chelsea star Jonna Andersson to come into the team – so this exciting side will get even stronger after the break for the European Championships.
Nevin’s fine form continued as she supplied Emma Jansson for the opening goal after just two minutes. Adelina Engman doubled the Stockholm side’s advantage just ahead of the half-hour mark. Jansson made it three right on half-time from the penalty spot. Eva Nyström completed the scoring sixteen minutes from time. Hammarby are now up to sixth – five points outside the top three and have a massive game against out-of-form BK Häcken in their final game before the break.
Above: Evelyn Viens (right) – scorer of both Kristianstads goals at IF Brommapojkarna. Photo: Mathilda Ahlberg.
Kristianstads are third after a 2-1 win on the road at IF Brommapojkarna – a fifth straight win. Canadian star Evelyn Viens continued her red-hot form with both goals. They came either side of Vaila Barsley’s goal for the hosts, a strike which came courtesy of an assist from Daniella Famili in front of 137 fans.
Above: Olga Ahtinen, who put Linköping ahead against AIK. Photo: Linköping.
Linköping remain Rosengård’s closest title rivals after a 2-1 win over bottom club AIK. Olga Ahtinen strike on the quarter-hour mark put the hosts ahead with Amalie Vansgaard doubling the advantage four minutes into the second half. Australian international Remy Siemsen provided hope for the Solna-based side when she supplied the assist for Linda Hallin. However, to the delight of the 542 fans, Linköping ran out 2-1 winners.
Eskilstuna United are sixth after a 2-0 win at home to KIF Örebro in front of 902 fans at Tunavallen. Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene put them on the way to the three points with a goal after just six minutes. Noor Eckhoff’s free-kick decided matters five minutes before the break.
Above: The scene is set for Piteå’s home game with Djurgården. Photo: DIF.
Piteå returned to winning ways after a midweek loss to AIK when they saw off Djurgården 3-0 at their Lombia IP home. It was goalless at the break, but an own goal put the hosts ahead eight minutes into the second half, with Hlin Eiríksdóttir continuing her good goalscoring form by making it 2-0 with just over 20 minutes remaining. She grabbed her brace just three minutes to the delight of the crowd of 932.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll.
Round Fifteen Fixtures: Hammarby v BK Häcken, AIK v Rosengård, IF Brommapojkarna v Eskilstuna United, Kristianstads v Piteå, Linköping v Umeå IK, IFK Kalmar v Djurgården, Vittsjö v KIF Örebro.
ELITETTAN
Artwork: Elitettan
There was huge drama in the Uppsala derby as league leaders IK Uppsala gained a sensational 5-4 win at Gamla Upsala on Friday night in front of a bumper crowd of 613. Mathilda Henriksson put the home side ahead with 17 minutes gone, but two goals in eight minutes turned the game on its head. Johanna Renmark and Taryn Ries put IK Uppsala ahead with the prolific Nicole Robertson making it 3-1 six minutes into stoppage time at the end of the first half.
Above: Sanna Öhlund, whose second-half strike brought Gamla Upsala back into the game. Photo: Elitettan.
The drama took hold early in the second period as an own goal brought Gamla back into the game at just 3-2 down. However, there was another twist involving two goals in quick succession – this time two in four minutes as Rosa Ossorio and Robertson pushed IK out to a 5-2 advantage. The crowd, royally entertained all night were treated to yet another rally of goals. Sanna Öhlund and Josefin Lindström brought Gamla Upsala back into the game at 5-4. There were still 20 minutes remaining on the clock at this stage, but IK Uppsala remained in front on the scoreboard by the odd goal in nine at the final whistle.
Above: Ifö Bromölla IF’s Amanda Olsson who earned her side a superb point against promotion-chasing Växjö. Photo: Elitettan.
Växjö lost vital ground at the top after being held 1-1 away to Ifö Bromölla IF. The newly-promoted team are now in their best form of the season and looking to pull away from the lower reaches of the table. Hannah Stokki put the visitors ahead just before the half-hour mark, but Amanda Olsson delighted the majority of the 154 spectators by levelling 11 minutes later.
Above: Alexandra Roholt, who hit the winner for Alingsås FC United at Sundsvalls. Photo: Alingsås Tidning.
Alingsås FC United continued their promotion push with a 1-0 win at Sundsvalls in front of 65 spectators . The only goal came from Alexandra Roholt with 20 minutes played.
Above: Minnie Asperot – who grabbed a hat-trick in IFK Norrköping’s 5-0 win at Team TG FF.
IFK Norrköping moved up to third with a comprehensive 5-0 win at Team TG FF. The game was pretty much over within the first half-hour when the visitors built a three-goal lead. Minnie Asperot netted after both two and 28 minutes with Sabina Ravnell scoring in between. Asperot completed her hat-trick just before the break. Thilde Alvberger grabbed Norrköping’s fifth with 11 minutes remaining.
Round 11: Gamla Upsala 4-5 IK Uppsala, Sundsvalls v Alingsås FC United, Bergdalens IK 2-7 Mallbackens IF Sunne, Ifö Bromölla 1-1 Växjö, Älvsjö AIK FF 0-4 Jitex BK, Lidköpings FK 3-2 Rävåsens IK Karlskoga, Team TG FF 0-5 IFK Norrköping.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll.
Round 12 Fixtures: Ifö Bromölla v Sundsvalls, IK Uppsala v Team TG FF, Jitex BK v IFK Norrköping, Mallbackens IF Sunne v Lidköpings FK, Växjö v Bergdalens IK, Alingsås FC United v Rävåsens IK Karlskoga, Gamla Upsala v Älvsjö AIK FF.
Ben Gilby provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Western Australia NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos(13/6/22).
Above: Abbey Meakins, scorer of two of Perth SC’s goals against Fremantle City on Sunday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Perth SC 3-0 Fremantle City
Perth SC gained a deserved and vital win over Fremantle City to leapfrog their opponents into second place in the NPL WA.
This was the first of two massive NPL home games for the Azzurri in six days as after meeting Freo, they will face off against runaway league leaders Perth RedStar next Saturday.
This second against third clash in the ladder brought two teams against each other at Dorrien Gardens with identical numbers of wins, draws, losses, and goal difference for the season. Just about the only key difference was that only one side had managed to score against Perth SC this season – Hyundai NTC – and the youngsters managed five in their two wins against the Azzurri.
Above: Liana Cook in action for Perth SC in a pervious encounter with Fremantle City. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
It was the home side who started strongly, forcing six corners in the opening 22 minutes. Their dangerous attacking group of Jaime Duncanson, Abbey Meakins, and Liana Cook were all showing their worth.
With seven minutes on the clock, Meakins released Duncanson who danced through the centre, and only a superbly timed sliding tackle from Laura Waltman denied the Perth SC player. Shortly afterwards, Meakins was involved again, getting in a fierce effort that Dayle Schroeder did well to get down to save at the expense of a corner. The resulting flag-kick came in, Cook was able to get a free header at the back post but the ball went over.
It was from another corner that Perth SC’s next chance came. Zoee Spadano played the set-piece back for Faye Phillips to hit a high ball into the back post. Cook headed across goal for Courtney Butlion to hit a shot that rolled wide.
Above: Jessica Darmago – Fremantle City’s dangerous attacker was full of more powerful running. Photo: Denyse McCulloch, supplied by Jessica Darmago.
Whilst Fremantle’s chances were not as frequent, they were a threat with Jess Darmago’s pace and vision a key factor. Twelve minutes into the encounter, Matilda Boyle won possession and threaded a centimetre perfect pass into the stride of Darmago to motor away. Nadia Harvey’s excellent tackle denied the Freo flyer. Siobhan Longmore then fired in a stunner from over 25 yards that nudged the bar.
Darmago went close again 23 minutes into the half when Kayla McCulloch brilliantly won the ball in the centre before releasing her teammate with another perfectly timed pass. The eventual shot was deflected out for a corner.
The Azzurri had the possession and the territory, but just lacked the final touch in front of goal. Duncanson’s vicious inswinging corners were creating chaos in the Fremantle box, but as the half wore on, the visitors were shutting down the home side quicker. It was goalless at the break.
The early stages of the second half resembled a tactical chess-match-type battle with both sides aware of the importance of the outcome.
Spadano went close for the home side twice in quick succession in the early stages of the stanza. First with a shot going wide of the back post from a free-kick and then with a curling effort from the edge of the box that Dayle Schroeder in the Fremantle goal held.
Above: Jaime Duncanson (right) – another excellent performance and another goal for Perth SC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Two goals in a five-minute spell on either side of the hour mark eventually settled matters. Emma McMurdo took advantage of a heavy Freo touch to find Meakins who in turn fed Duncanson outside her. The Azzurri star controlled the ball and fired into the net with the outside of her foot.
Perth SC benefitted from back-to-back corners to double their advantage. Duncanson lifted the second of them in for Cook to get a header on and Meakins was there to slam home from close range.
Despite continuing to work hard, Fremantle were not able to fashion a response, and Perth SC remained the most likely side to score.
Above: Abbey Meakins, pictured in a previous Perth SC v Fremantle City clash, played a key part in each of her team’s three goals. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
With eight minutes remaining, Meakins’ influence continued as she spread the play for Butlion who in turn found McMurdo, but the shot went over the top.
Meakins exchanged passes with McMurdo outside the box before the latter advanced and was brought down by Janice Kiama who was shown her second yellow card of the afternoon by referee Stephen Knight. A penalty was also awarded. Meakins stepped up and rolled an effort into the left-hand side of the net. However, due to encroachment, a re-take was ordered. Meakins was not fazed and hit a more powerful effort into the same part of the net.
Perth SC deserved the win having looked dangerous in attack and well organised at the back. Next Saturday’s clash with Perth RedStar is mouthwatering and one that the Western Australian NPL women’s football community is greatly anticipating.
Above: Smiles and celebrations for Murdoch University against Curtin University on Friday night. Photo: NPL.
This weekend’s NPL WA action kicked off on Friday night as Murdoch University Melville hosted Curtin University at Besteam Stadium.
The hosts went ahead at the half-hour mark when Nikita Strickling was fed on the left wing before cutting inside. She played an angled pass which was touched on into the path of Penelope Clayton to calmly put Murdoch ahead.
It was 2-0 just three minutes later as the home side again profited down the left with Meghan Hulsman advancing to square a pass to the middle of the box which was then moved towards the back post. An awkward bounce hampered Curtin’s attempts to clear and Clayton was on hand to double her tally for the night.
Above: Curtin University celebrate Keilin Fagan’s strike at Murdoch University Melville. Photo: NPL.
Yet less than sixty seconds later the visitors were back in it as Keilin Fagan profited from a poorly directed pass to confidently sweep the ball past Monique Todd in the Murdoch University Melville goal.
It stayed that way until 20 minutes from time when Rosie Lehane took possession against the by-line and angled a ball into the box for Hulsman to take a touch and then find the net. Hulsman continued her fine performance by scoring two goals in stoppage time at the end of the game to complete her hat-trick.
Hulsman’s second strike came a minute into added time when she pounced on a loose pass out of defence from the visitors to slam a first-time shot home. The hat-trick was completed when a defence-splitting run found Hulsman who smashed a shot high into the net.
Above: Balcatta Etna (left) and Hyundai NTC battle it out at Grindleford Reserve on Sunday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: JASP Photography.
On Sunday, Balcatta Etna‘s strong recent form continued with an important 3-0 win over Hyundai NTC at Grindleford Reserve to leapfrog their opponents into the top four.
The hosts hit the front just past the quarter of an hour mark when Tahlia D’Opera turned her player on the left and advanced. The ball eventually was laid off for Lauren Continibali to slam into the net from the right-hand side of the box.
Eight minutes later, it was 2-0 as NTC keeper Lilly Bailey’s clearance fell perfectly for Alanah Veroni to loop a shot straight into the net.
Balcatta Etna completed this vital win with 19 minutes remaining. A corner came high into the box from the right which beat both Bailey and her defence, allowing Monique Prinsloo to sweep home.
Above: Balcatta Etna celebrate their opening goal against Hyundai NTC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: JASP Photography.
The final game of the round saw Subiaco host Perth RedStar at Rosalie Park. Whilst the unbeaten league leaders took the points as expected, it was the home side who deserve plaudits for a fantastic effort full of desire, belief, and determination. Subi worked their socks off all afternoon to close down RedStar.
Above: A perfect example of Subiaco keeping it tight to their Perth RedStar opponents on Sunday. Photo: NPL.
Despite the visitors racking up 13 shots on target to their three, Subiaco remained competitive and in the game. The only goal came with 63 minutes gone when Larissa Walsh squared a low ball from the left for Sarah Carroll to sidefoot into the net under the dive of Subi goalkeeper Zara Board.
Above: Perth RedStar celebrate Sarah Carroll’s winning goal. Photo: NPL.
P
W
D
L
F
A
Pts
GD
Perth RedStar
10
10
0
0
45
5
30
+40
Perth SC
10
6
2
2
19
5
20
+14
Fremantle City
10
5
2
3
24
16
17
+8
Balcatta Etna
9
4
1
4
10
8
13
+2
Murdoch University Melville
10
3
3
4
12
11
12
+1
Hyundai NTC
10
3
3
4
11
22
12
-11
Subiaco
10
1
2
7
8
32
5
-24
Curtin University
9
0
1
8
9
39
1
-30
Round 12 Fixtures: Curtin University v Balcatta Etna, Perth SC v Perth RedStar, Fremantle City v Murdoch University Melville, Hyundai NTC v Subiaco.
Ben Gilby hears from Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson as he unveils his squad for this months’ two tough matches as well as from newly called-up Sydney FC stars Taylor Ray and Mackenzie Hawkesby(13/6/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson, who has wrung the changes ahead of this month’s challenges against Spain and Portugal. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson has called up a host of fresh faces to the 24-player squad to take on Spain and Portugal in the June FIFA International Window.
Australia will take on the two Women’s European Championships-bound nations later this month with the opening match against Spain on Saturday, 25 June (local) at Estadio Nuevo Colombino in Huelva. Three days later the Matildas will line up against Portugal on Tuesday, 28 June (local) at the Estádio António Coimbra da Mota in Estoril.
Gustavsson said: “This upcoming camp and international window is a big opportunity for many players in the squad selected. I am excited to see the group in action and witness how we can rise to the challenge as a team and as individuals.”
“Spain and Portugal are quality nations in the final stages of their preparations for one of the biggest trophies in women’s football and they will be a tough challenge in many aspects of the game.”
Above: Courtney Nevin, who is thriving at Hammarby in Sweden, and is back in the green and gold. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Gustavsson has chosen a combination of regular national team squad members, a cohort of recalled players, and some first-time senior national team attendees.
The roster includes 14 members of the squad that defeated New Zealand in the April series with several players in strong form. Midfielder Clare Wheeler was recently named the Fortuna Hjørring Player of the Year in a season where the Danish club claimed the Cup title and finished runners-up in the league.
San Diego Wave’s Emily van Egmond has been instrumental in their winning start to their inaugural NWSL season and Swedish-based duo Teagan Micah and Charli Grant assisted league leaders FC Rosengard in claiming the Swedish Cup title last month.
Their fellow Damallsvenskan-basedMatilda Courtney Nevin is in outstanding form for Hammarby, scoring three goals, assisting her team to four wins in their past five matches.
Elsewhere in the squad, Larissa Crummer will enter a national team training camp for the first time in four years. It continues the hard-fought return to football for the 26-year-old following a broken leg in 2019 which kept her out of the sport for nearly two years.
Meanwhile, the FIFA window will see goalkeeper Lydia Williams in line to become the first female Australian goalkeeper to reach 100 appearances for Australia.
Above: Taylor Ray speaking about her joy in being called up for the Matildas. Photo: Football Australia.
When it comes to fresh faces, the call-up of both Mackenzie Hawkesby and Taylor Ray, in addition to Princess Ibini, Rachel Lowe, Cortnee Vine see recognition for Sydney FC’s A-League Women season. Also rewarded for a strong season domestically is Adeliade United’s Matilda McNamara. Returning after absences are Angela Beard and Amy Sayer. Uncapped defender Winonah Heatley and Celtic FC’s Jacynta Galabadaarachchi have also received a recall for this window.
Speaking about her call-up, Taylor Ray was overjoyed: “Obviously last time when I was called up for Dubai (the pre-Asian Cup training camp), I got COVID. It was an opportunity that I had been waiting for. So this time, coming off the season Sydney FC had, I’m really pumped.
“I was actually on the way to the movies with friends when I heard the news, so I was really shocked! I went through so many emotions (when I heard I was selected) because of all the different things I’ve been through (two ACL injuries), it really hit home.
“Those two setbacks shaped me into being such a stronger person mentally. The Matildas is something I’ve been wanting to do since I was young in Townsville. It makes me proud of myself and my family. Some of my best mates are going along too having been called up, so what’s better than that?”
Above: A shocked Mackenzie Hawkesby speaking about her selection for the national side. Photo: Football Australia.
Ray’s Sydney FC team-mate Mackenzie Hawkesby echoed those sentiments saying: “I was so shocked to get called-up, I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life. It’s the most exciting thing that’s ever happened to me.
“As a footballer, you work so hard everyday and for this to happen, I’m so humbled by it. For it to be against Spain and Portugal is amazing. Spain are a top nation and they are getting better and better.
June will see the absence of a host of regular names including Matildas captain Sam Kerr, vice-captain Steph Catley, as well as a number of senior players. Defender Ellie Carpenter will also be on the sidelines for the foreseeable future with the Lyon star sustaining a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
“As we draw closer to the commencement of the 2023 World Cup, all our decision-making is centred around the strongest possible preparation for all players vying to be a part of 23 in 23.”
Above: Matilda McNamara who wins a Matildas opportunity after a superb season with Adelaide United. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“Selection for this June squad has been based on a combination of factors but ultimately it has been about individualising player programs with a long-term view. In preparing the specialised plans, we have evaluated where the players currently are and where they will need to be and determined the best course of action for each player.
“For some players, this has meant being a part of these invaluable matches with Spain and Portugal providing a chance to demonstrate how they can make our team stronger. For another cohort, it results in being proactive around reoccurring ailments and re-establishing a fitness baseline without the need to focus on peaking for matches.
“This is a crucial period in our groundwork for next year’s World Cup and there has been a true collaboration between players and staff to ensure we capitalise on the opportunities to position us well for 2023.”
MATILDAS SQUAD | JUNE 2022
Name
Position
Club
Caps (goals)
Mackenzie ARNOLD
Goalkeeper
West Ham United
28 (0)
Angela BEARD
Back
Fortuna Hjørring
3 (0)
Alex CHIDIAC
Midfielder
Racing Louisville
18 (1)
Larissa CRUMMER
Forward
Capalaba FC
23 (4)
Jacynta GALABADAARACHCHI
Forward
Celtic FC
0 (0)
Emily GIELNIK
Forward
Aston Villa
52 (11)
Katrina GORRY
Midfielder
Vittsjö GIK
80 (15)
Charlotte GRANT
Back
FC Rosengård
5 (0)
Mackenzie HAWKESBY
Midfielder
Sydney FC
0 (0)
Winonah HEATLEY
Back
Sydney Olympic
0 (0)
Princess IBINI-ISEI
Forward
APIA Leichhardt
6 (0)
Rachel LOWE
Forward
Sydney University
1 (0)
Matilda McNAMARA
Back
Adelaide City
0 (0)
Teagan MICAH
Goalkeeper
FC Rosengård
9 (0)
Courtney NEVIN
Back
Hammarby
10 (0)
Clare POLKINGHORNE
Back
Vittsjö GIK
143 (12)
Taylor RAY
Midfielder
Sydney Olympic
0 (0)
Amy SAYER
Midfielder
Stanford University
4 (0)
Remy SIEMSEN
Forward
AIK
4 (0)
Emily VAN EGMOND
Midfielder
San Diego Wave
118 (30)
Cortnee VINE
Forward
Sydney Olympic
4 (0)
Clare WHEELER
Midfielder
Fortuna Hjørring
9 (0)
Lydia WILLIAMS
Goalkeeper
Arsenal WFC
99 (0)
Tameka YALLOP
Midfielder
West Ham United
105 (12)
Above: Angie Beard gets a well-deserved return to the Matildas squad. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Above: Hayley Ann Mooney playing football at the Moriarty Foundation’s Dubbo Hub. Photo: Jacquie Manning.
Impetus is extremely proud to have further extended our charity partnership with Moriarty Foundation by announcing that the site is sponsoring young female JMF Scholarship Holders from regional NSW.
The funds will go towards helping these talented young footballers in their skills development, and go towards equipping them with football gear, club fees, travel to games and support for their schooling; putting them onto the pathway to a better future.
Established in 2012, Moriarty Foundation delivers two groundbreaking and interrelated community initiatives in remote and regional Australia, Indi Kindi and John Moriarty Football.
John Moriarty Football (JMF) is Australia’s longest-running and most successful Indigenous football initiative for 2-18 year-olds. JMF’s transformational skills program uses football for talent and positive change. JMF has a proven track record of improving school attendance and achieving resilient, healthier outcomes for some of Australia’s most remote Indigenous communities.
Above: Miley Shipp, playing at the Moriarty Foundation’s Dubbo Hub. Photo: Jacquie Manning.
Each week JMF reaches more than 2,000 children, with equal participation of boys and girls in 19 communities and 20 public schools across New South Wales, Queensland, and the Northern Territory through in-school and after-school sessions, free school holiday clinics, weekend tournaments, and in juvenile justice facilities.
JMF is a holistic initiative that encourages regular school attendance, healthier lifestyles, self-respect, and community engagement through football and teamwork.
Michael MacDougall, Moriarty Foundation’s Scholarships and Pathway’s Manager explained the process of selection for JMF’s scholarship programme.
“The selection is based on talent and their commitment to playing football – for instance training and improving their skills – as well as their dedication to their education and schooling. The scholars mostly come from our grassroots JMF sessions which take place both in-school and after school.”
The scholarship produces incredible opportunities for the young people from both an educational and footballing perspective, as Michael outlined.
Above: Hayley Ann and Miley pictured in Dubbo. Photo: Jacquie Manning.
“The JMF Scholars studying in Sydney work hard at school and on the field. They attend some of Australia’s top schools so they can receive a quality education but also access training with some of the best football coaches in the country.
“Each week they attend an additional technical training session after school with JMF coaches, as well as an intensive tutoring session to support their school work.
“Along with attending a top school, JMF Scholars also play for a NPL football club, which involves training at least three times a week, along with playing matches on weekends during competition season.”
This year’s scholars follow in the footsteps of some outstanding previous scholarship holders.
Marra woman Shadeene Evans is JMF’s inaugural scholarship holder. She went on to debut with A-League Women side Sydney FC, was selected as Young Matilda vice-captain, and was awarded the 2020 Role Model of the Year by Football Federation Australia. Shadeene also won a full academic scholarship to study social work at the University of New South Wales in Sydney. She also played for Adelaide United in the 2021/22 A-League Women season.
JMF additionally has two current scholars studying in Sydney who are in their final years of high school and are playing for NPL teams.
Wales and Watford legend Helen Ward spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby abouther incredible career for club and country as well as looking at how the game has developed and how she believes the sport is developing in tiers two and three.
Above: Helen Ward celebrating with Wales. Photo: FAW.
Earlier this year, Helen Ward won her hundredth cap for Wales. However, having been born in Brent, the Watford striker was eligible to represent the Lionesses, and indeed she did represent England U23’s earlier in her career as she reflects.
“I went on a few training camps and played in a game or two for England U23’s but, if I am honest, I never really felt like I fit in. I never felt like it was going to work out and in truth, I didn’t enjoy being away and so I didn’t show my best form.
“I then had a conversation with my assistant manager at Watford who also happened to be the assistant for Wales and he asked if I had a Welsh background or family history. When I explained that my grandparents were Welsh, he invited me along. It didn’t take much to convince me and from the minute I met the staff and players, I felt right at home. It was the best decision I ever made.”
Above: Helen Ward shows her appreciation of the Llanelli crowd after Wales’ World Cup qualifier with Greece in November 2021. Photo: Lewis Mitchell
That decision culminated with Ward making her international debut for Wales in September 2008 away to Luxembourg, an occasion that she still looks back fondly on. “Luxembourg away isn’t the most glamorous of occasions, but it meant the world to me to stand in that line-up and hear that anthem for the first time.
“There have been so many wonderful memories with Wales. It honestly has been the constant in my life for nearly 14 years and I have grown from a younger player to the oldest in the squad, and I feel like I have lived some of my best moments with these girls, certainly in terms of football.
“Other than my debut, the 45-minute hat trick in Haverfordwest against Kazakhstan was a good day – I came on at halftime as a sub at 0-0 and we went on to win 4-0 so that’s another.
“But one of my favourite team performances of all time was the 3-0 home win against Russia at Spytty Park, Newport. Again, it was 0-0 at halftime, it was roasting hot and we were running ourselves into the ground. Then we came out in the second half and absolutely battered them! It was the first time we had beaten a second seed team in a group and kept us in with a chance of qualifying for the World Cup. Ultimately, qualification didn’t come but that was a special game back in June 2018. It was also the first time I had both of my babies at a game.”
Prior to winning her hundredth cap, Ward highlighted how she feels her national team head coach Gemma Grainger had built on the achievements of the previous Welsh coaches. The striker outlined the real qualities that she believes Grainger has brought to the table.
Above: Wales head coach Gemma Grainger, who Helen believes is leading her team to a bright future. Photo: FAW.
“She has been great at acknowledging what and who had come before her and the foundations that we had built. Under Jayne Ludlow, we had become a very strong, defensive unit and a very disciplined team in terms of structure and our individual roles. We learnt how to adapt and adjust and learn new systems quickly and I think Gemma recognised that.
“She has just adapted parts of what we are good at and built on them by not trying to change us too much – particularly in terms of our out-of-possession principles but added an extra dimension to our play as an attacking team.
“We have a new formation but have good foundations and a good identity that has been built on and off the pitch over time.”
That identity is one that is making Wales extremely tough to beat. In their current World Cup qualifying campaign, they may have been beaten home and away by France, but Corinne Diacre’s team were well tested in both encounters. Ward believes that the Welsh are getting closer to the top teams, and it is only a matter of time before a historic win is achieved.
“It’s going to take time, of course, but we are as close as we’ve ever been. We are learning a lot about ourselves and, for me, that’s more important than learning about the other nations. We are learning that we can compete and that we have every right to compete with these sides and that’s showing in our performances. We just need to keep doing what we are doing and trust that it is working. The draw in a friendly against Denmark proves we have what it takes.”
Above: Helen Ward in her Chelsea days. Photo: Akio Hayakawa.
With Helen having grown into the game in a period when it was hard to have prominent female role models in a male-dominated sport, the Watford striker believes there have been major strides in recent times, including the numbers of female coaches.
“I think there has been a big improvement in this area (female coach numbers), to be honest. You look at us with Wales for example where our last two head coaches have been female FIFA Pro License holders so that can’t be a bad thing. The FAWSL and Championship also has a good number of female coaches so it is happening.
“I think in the past, with the game being so young, the focus was on getting more women and girls playing the game and naturally were often being coached by men. Now, those players have got older, learned the game, and are now progressing into coaching.
“You look at some of the pioneers of the women’s game, the likes of Casey Stoney, Jayne (Ludlow), Jo Potter – they played the game and won trophies at the highest level and are now managing and coaching. That’s the start of it and now it is a professional sport, it is the natural progression for many players so we will keep seeing more and more former players going down that route.
“It’s not just coaching, either. We’re seeing more and more women in other roles in football. Whether it is behind the scenes or in the media and that’s what we want. Strong female role models across the whole spectrum of football.
I am interested in coaching but I also like the idea of working in the background of a club, developing pathways for younger players as well as working as a freelance broadcaster and covering the game that way. Let’s just say I am keeping my options open!”
Above: Helen Ward in action for Reading. Photo: Neil Graham.
As well as being a hugely respected long-term member of the Welsh national team, Helen is a legend at Watford, having originally joined the club at the age of nine.
“Yeah, Watford are a massive part of me as a player and a fan. I have had a connection with the club for over 25 years and it will always have a massive place in my heart.
“I was eight or nine when I first joined and it was basically a case of my older brother getting bored of me following him to football and playing in the garden so when he went to senior school and found an advert for trials at Watford he said I should give it a go. And that was that, I was hooked. I then stayed there until I was 22 when I left to join Arsenal.”
After a spell at the Gunners, Ward spent three years at Chelsea and four at Reading before returning to the Hertfordshire side that holds her heart. The striker has seen a lot of changes at Watford over that time.
“Things have changed massively. When I left in 2009 there was a very tenuous relationship between the men’s and the women’s sides and although coming back to finish my career there was always in the back of my mind, it would have to be right.
Above: Helen pictured on returning to Watford in 2017. Photo: Watford FC.
“If I’m honest, it didn’t look great for some time but then, when I fell pregnant with Charlie in 2017, everything fell into place and I realised the strides the club had made and I was ready to return.
“Even since 2017, things have been on an upward curve and despite spending longer than we’d have liked in tier three, it has given us a chance to grow again. We have hit another bump in the road with our relegation from the Championship at the end of this season but I know we are better equipped than ever to bounce back.”
That relegation came in truly dramatic style when Coventry United, who produced a superb late run of form to recover from points deductions to set up a final day decider against Helen’s side at Watford’s main Vicarage Road stadium. There was heartbreak for Ward and her teammates as a stunning 30-yard free-kick from Molly Green, seven minutes into stoppage time at the end of the game kept Coventry up and sent the Golden Girls back to the FA Women’s National League.
“It was a tough season for many reasons,” Ward admitted. “I think the gap between the FA Women’s National League and the Championship is closing, but with more and more of the Championship sides turning professional, it could well open up again.
“Ourselves and Sunderland (promoted with Watford into the Championship for the season just finished) found out ourselves pretty late after having to apply for upward movement due to the pandemic, so that set us on the back foot a little and we had to catch up in terms of player and staff recruitment all over the club. That’s not an excuse, though, and quite simply, we weren’t good enough often enough on the pitch and that is what has cost us our place in the Championship.
Above: Watford come together after the season ended in a heartbreaking manner against Coventry United at Vicarage Road. Photo: Watford FC.
Whilst Helen admitted earlier that as the Championship has more professional clubs, the gap between tiers two and three may grow, she feels that next season may be different.
“I think teams can thrive, of course and I have real high hopes for Southampton to do that next season. Of course, you never know what might happen, but I am hearing all the right things coming out of that club so I am keen to see how they get on.
“In the future, I’d love to see both FA Women’s National League Northern Premier and Southern Premier winners get promoted so that clubs in the third tier have even more incentive to raise their game and get on a level with the Championship sides. In turn, that will filter down the leagues and grow the game from within.”
Our discussion ended with Ward reflecting on what piece of advice she would give an eight-year-old version of herself. Her wise words carry great meaning to all of us, however young (or old) we are.
“Enjoy every minute and don’t put pressure on yourself,” Helen advises. “As a footballer, the best feeling in the world is scoring goals and winning games – so enjoy it!”
It’s been a week of big announcements from the reigning FA Women’s Super League Champions. We hear boss Emma Hayes‘ views on her latest big-name defensive signing(10/6/22).
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan at Stamford Bridge after signing for Chelsea. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Chelsea FC.
Chelsea today confirmed the signing of Canadian defender Kadeisha Buchanan on a three-year deal ahead of the 2022/23 season.
The 26-year-old officially joins the Blues from reigning UEFA Women’s Champions League winners Olympique Lyonnais on 1July until summer 2025. The centre-back will be the first player to wear the famous No26 shirt for Chelsea since Blues legend, John Terry.
Buchanan has spent the past five-and-a-half-years at Lyon where she most recently won the UEFA Women’s Champions League against Barcelona, securing her fifth European trophy with the French side. The Canadian defender has had an illustrious career to date proving to be one of Europe’s best, with 130 appearances and nine goals to her name at Lyon and a further eight domestic trophies secured including winning the Coupe de France three times and the French league title an impressive five times.
Prior to moving to France, Buchanan spent four years playing college football in the States with West Virginia Mountaineers where she made 98 appearances and established herself as one of the top players in the NCAA.
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan with the Champions League trophy she won with Olympique Lyonnais last month. Photo: De Fodi Images.
Buchanan also brings a wealth of experience having started her international career at just 14 years old when recruited into the Canadian Youth Programme in 2010. Her first silverware came in the form of a silver medal at the 2012 CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Championship in Guatemala and she then went on to win the Young Player award at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The centre-back made her senior debut for her country in 2013 against China becoming one of the youngest international players at the time. Since then, she has gone on to make 118 appearances and receive a host of individual honours, being named Canadian Player of the Year three times, nominated for the prestigious FIFA Ballon d’Or, and featuring in the FIFPro Women’s World XI. Last year, Buchanan also took home gold at the 2020 Olympics.
On her decision to join the London side, Buchanan commented: “I am coming to Chelsea with the same ambition I always had – win trophies and become the best in the world. The club has everything in order for us to compete in every competition and it’s time to bring a Champions League trophy to London.
“I’m hoping to bring my experience to the team and continue on the successful pathway that the club has been on for the past seasons. I can’t wait to join my new teammates and the coaching staff on this journey.”
Commenting on Buchanan’s move to the Blues, Emma Hayes added: “Kadeisha is a serial winner at the top of her game and I have no doubt we are signing a world-class player who has proven herself on the world stage.
“She is going to bring a quality to our group and with her brilliant personality and character, we think she will be really liked within the dressing room. We look forward to welcoming Kadeisha this summer.”
Buchanan will join up with the squad in the summer prior to heading to the States for the WICC tour in August.
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan in action for Canada, with whom she won a Gold medal at last year’s Olympic Games. Photo: SB Nation.
A team full of promising youngsters and previouslycalled-up internationals will represent Australia at the tournament for ASEAN member nationals. Impetus hears from Mel Andreatta who will the head coach of a strong-looking team (10/6/22).
Above: Charli Grant, one of the players selected for the preliminary Matildas squad for the AFF Championships with a full Australia cap. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Charli Grant.
An Australian representative team will travel to the Philippines for the 2022 AFF Women’s Championship to run from 4th–17th July 2022.
It will be Australia’s sixth appearance at the biennial competition to see who will be crowned champions of the ASEAN region. Following the official draw, Australia will face the hosts Philippines, and other group members, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand in Group A.
The tournament, which is open to the ASEAN members of the AFC – Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, will be the 12th staging of the women’s event. Australia have previously won the competition in 2008 and finished runners-up in 2013 and 2018. The Matildas were semi-finalists additionally in 2015 and 2016.
Above: Australia competing in the 2018 competition where they finished as runners-up. Photo: Getty Images.
Australia’s group action will commence on 4 July with matches scheduled every two days until the final group fixture on 12 July. The top two teams from each group will progress to the knockout phase and a chance at the AFF Women’s Championship.
Matildas Assistant Coach, Melissa Andreatta, has been appointed as head coach for the Australian representative team with Leah Blayney named as her Assistant Coach.
With several 2023 World Cup-bound nations participating, Andreatta is eagerly anticipating the prospect of providing the next generation of players exposure and growth experiences in a competitive environment and match conditions.
“We have some exciting promising talent across our player pool and since the resumption of international football in 2022, we have been working extremely hard to ensure that they are given every opportunity to grow and develop as players that will represent Australia prominently over the coming years,” Andreatta said.
Above: Mel Andreatta, who will lead the Matildas side at the AFF Championships next month. Photo: Football Australia.
“The AFF Women’s Championships is a tournament with great history that will provide the next generation of player Australian footballers with strong learnings as they embark on their next phase of personal and professional development. More competitive match minutes at the highest available intensity will only be beneficial for the national team in the long term.
“Playing in match conditions allows us to work with the group closely and continue integrating them into the style of play that will give them the best foundations to challenge for a position on the roster for next year’s World Cup.”
A little over a month out from the commencement of the tournament, Andreatta has selected a preliminary 35-player squad. With a host of football action to be undertaken over the coming weeks, the squad will be whittled down over the coming weeks.
AUSTRALIA PRELIMINARY 35-PLAYER SQUAD | 4-17 JULY 2022
NAME
POSITION
CLUB / MEMBER FEDERATION
Alexia APOSTOLAKIS
Defender
Football NSW Institute / Football NSW
Chelsea BLISSETT
Defender
Lions FC on loan from Melbourne City FC / Football Victoria
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