Gustavsson and Klimková Reflect On Second Matildas v Football Ferns Clash

Impetus’ Ben Gilby was in the post-match media conference for us and heard from both Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson and New Zealand counterpart Jitka Klimková (12/4/22).

Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson saw positives and development points from his side in today’s game with New Zealand in Canberra. Photo: Football Australia.

Reflecting on how Australia played tonight, head coach Tony Gustavsson reflected: “We were mixed tonight. When we had speed of play, New Zealand couldn’t cope with our combination play and the way we were zipping the ball around. There were parts when we lacked concentration and New Zealand looked to catch us on the break and they could have scored one or two more goals. We need to learn from every moment. When we play fast we are difficult to stop.”

Gustavsson recognized that after her strong performance in Friday’s match, the Football Ferns were going to target reducing the threat of Katrina Gorry.

“I had a talk with ‘Mini’ (Gorry) about how they will have a plan to stop her. We too then had a plan to see how we could get her around that. She is so skilful that she can get away from pressure. She can turn on a dime. You saw that when she played in Mary (Fowler). She wasn’t as impactful as in the first game, but she still played well.”

The Matildas head coach insisted that there is clear progression in his side’s performances during this international window, but equally is aware there is still much to do.

“We internally have seen the progress and the journey for a while now even though result-wise that may not be obvious. We started to see good things in the first game with Brazil in 15-minute bursts and the last 30 minutes of the first half in the first game against the USA.

“We came into this camp saying we needed to believe in what we are doing and the process along with a cohesion and chemistry. The players have been patient with me as a coach with curveballs, rotations, and rosters I have thrown at them. Now we are narrowing it down with greater continuity. I think one of the reasons that we have seen better combination play during this camp is because we have more continuity in what we are doing.”

Tony Gustavsson, Australia head coach.

“There’s also the addition of players with different profiles who have given us a different dimension in how we are playing.”

Asked by Impetus’ Ben Gilby about the reduced intensity from Australia in the second half, Gustavsson admitted: “I think there was a drop-off. I made changes at that point because I wanted players to come on with energy and with something to prove to me as a head coach.

“I do also think there was a second wave of drop-off (around the 70-minute mark) and that was a good opportunity to practice game management. New Zealand took over and that was us letting them have the ball. We need to prepare for a World Cup scenario protecting leads and trying to be flexible. We need to train on those aspects going forward.”

Above: It was an impressive performance from Australia’s Hayley Raso. She spoke to the media after the game. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia’s Manchester City star Hayley Raso reflected on her superb goal when she spoke to the media after the match in Canberra.

“It’s always nice to get on the score sheet. We needed to be better in the final third. We’ve worked hard on that.

“We know that whoever plays combines well together. The cohesion is really there. We work on how to develop and get better and we can see how things are gelling now.”

Asked about whether going 3-0 up so early made it a challenge to keep a relentless attacking game going, Raso said: “For us, we try not to get ahead of ourselves. We wanted to come into the game and score goals. We got a few within a certain period, but that doesn’t stop what we want to do. We stay calm, play our football and continue to push.”

Impetus also understands that Cortnee Vine missed the game today after pulling her groin. It is not thought to be a groin strain, but the Matildas wanted to reduce any risk of more serious injury.

Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková. Photo: NZ Football.

New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková was philosophical about her team’s performance in Canberra against Australia, insisting that there were positives to take.

“Australia put their strongest 11 out and played for a win from the start. This time they put their chances in the goal and that was the difference between the first and second games. I did see positives though.

“We switched our way of defending. We pushed them high and got close to causing trouble. Our high press caused them problems, we need to be consistent now as to how we win the ball further up the field.”

“We wanted to put the pressure on the ball as soon as possible, making them have possession further back on the pitch. We wanted to keep how we defended on Friday in the same way. We wanted to be more aggressive with our squeeze and put pressure on the ball earlier and that is something that we need to do better.

Jitka Klimková, New Zealand head coach.

“The last 20 minutes saw how we really want to play – trusting each other. Not just possession for possession sake, but looking to break the line and score some goals ourselves. Stotty showed how good she is with the ball today as well. She will help us in future to get more control.”

Despite these aims, Klimková’s side found it hard to compete with the Matildas in the first half. New Zealand’s head coach believed that ultimately it was more about how good the hosts were than any weakness in her own side.

“Huge credit to Australia for how they played. The first half was incredible football from them.”

Key attacker Paige Satchell had to leave the pitch in the early stages with what appeared to be breathing problems. The Football Ferns head coach detailed the issue.

“We know that she has some challenges with her heart, so just in case, we wanted to have things under control. It was the right decision to take her off the field. The medical team will work with her to get things right and I am confident that she will be with us in the next international window.”

Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková saw positives from today’s game. Photo: NZ Football.

Klimková was pressed by the New Zealand media about her decision to take Victoria Esson out of the starting line-up despite her outstanding performance in the first game against Australia on Friday, and it is not the first time such a move has occurred.

“We are still in this development of our team phase. We want to have more players ready. That was the reason that Erin (Naylor) got the chance today. She has made good performances for her club and did well at training. It was a simple decision for her to play today and I thought she did a good job.”

The Football Ferns head coach, overall was pleased with what she saw from her team over the matches.

“I definitely got what I wanted out of these two games. We were aiming to build connections on the field. Result wise it was not what we wanted. The first game was so close, but we know we need to be better with our game management and we have to learn those lessons. The players will remember and will be smarter.

Matildas Ease To Second Football Ferns Win

Australia 3-1 New Zealand

By Ben Gilby (12/4/22)

Above: The Matildas celebrate with two goal Sam Kerr tonight in Canberra against New Zealand. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia produced a dominant first-half performance, scoring three goals in a 17 minute spell to see off New Zealand in Canberra.

That opening 45-minute showing saw the Matildas convert a greater percentage of their shots on goal than in recent performances. Whilst building a big lead half-time lead can often lead to a second half-drop off, there does remain an element of frustration about a more pedestrian second-half which saw the hosts fail to impose their overall dominance onto the scoreboard.

The real positives again came from players coming into the squad. Alex Chidiac’s eagerly awaited arrival from the bench brought a superb cameo involving stunning flicks, eye of the needle passes into space, and energetic running. Whilst slightly more shackled this time by Katie Bowen, Katrina Gorry also produced another performance to be proud of.

Above: New Zealand’s Katie Bowen (right) who worked hard against Katrina Gorry (left) all night long in Canberra. Photo: Football Australia.

The Matildas went into the game with just the one change as Caitlin Foord came in to start ahead of Kyah Simon. Cortnee Vine, so dangerous in the final stages on Friday in the first friendly between the two sides was unavailable due to a late injury.

New Zealand brought Erin Naylor in for the hugely impressive Victoria Esson in goal, with Mikayla Moore staying in for the injured Ria Percival.

The earliest stages saw some attacking vim and vigour from the Football Ferns as they imposed a pacey high press which resulted in forcing some defensive errors from Australia in the form of loose passes.

It was not long though before Australia began to impose themselves on proceedings. Naylor had to make her first save with just three minutes on the clock after Foord played Steph Catley in along the right. Claudia Bunge’s clearance fell to Hayley Raso who hit a cross shot which the Ferns goalkeeper gathered under the bar.

New Zealand pressured the Matildas defence shortly afterwards as Hannah Wilkinson was played through and beat the off-side trap. Clare Polkinghorne and Alanna Kennedy failed to close her down sufficiently and the Melbourne City striker’s shot was narrowly wide of the far post.

The Ferns suffered a set-back before the 10th minute when Paige Satchell went down with what looked like breathing difficulties. She would eventually leave the pitch to be replaced by Gabi Rennie, but took her place on the bench which alleviated any initial major concerns.

Above: Australia celebrate Sam Kerr’s opening goal against New Zealand. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia stepped up the intensity, and unlike Friday, got almost immediate rewards. With a quarter of an hour played, Steph Catley’s corner was headed home by an unmarked Sam Kerr. It was a trademark Kerr goal from a set-piece, but major questions need to be asked about an international defence giving the Chelsea star that sort of freedom.

Two minutes later, the Matildas doubled their advantage as Gorry’s pass through came back off Bowen and into the path of Raso to curl a shot into the far corner of the net on the bounce. Whilst it may have been fortuitous that the ball fell to her, it was a superb finish by the Manchester City player.

At this stage, Australia had scored two goals from their three shots on target – something which after the wastefulness of last week’s encounter was a positive.

New Zealand’s defensive organization was a major plus point from Friday’s game, but this time round, they were struggling and guilty of ball watching too often. Being under constant pressure will always highten the possibilities of errors, yet the Ferns showed previously that they can do it. The challenge now is to do it more often, as when the World Cup comes round, lapses will prove costly.

Just after the half-hour mark, it was 3-0. Emily van Egmond’s long ball allowed Kerr to beat Ali Riley and run comfortably between two defenders and roll home a finish into the far corner.

Above: Two goal Sam Kerr celebrates in Canberra tonight. Photo: Football Australia.

With 73% possession, The Matildas were still looking for more goals. Kerr squared a ball across which New Zealand could only clear into the path of Ellie Carpenter, but Naylor saved well.

Two minutes into stoppage time, Australia paid the price for a momentary slip of concentration at the back when Olivia Chance released Wilkinson who advanced towards goal. Lydia Williams blocked the initial shot but the Ferns’ striker won the physical battle with Polkinghorne and hit an effort between the Matildas’ defender’s legs which went in.

Whilst the Matildas came out firing at the start of the second period, with Foord hitting an effort against the bar, the pace began to ease. Australia were comfortable in possession, but were not able to replicate the creation of chances that had come before.

In a bid to inject more energy, Matildas’ head coach Tony Gustavsson brought on five substitutes, including Alex Chidiac who went into midfield along side Gorry. The Melbourne Victory A-League Women champion’s first touch was sublime – a flick with the outside of the foot. She was threading balls through holes beautifully.

Carpenter then made a break along the right and crossed in. Sub Tameka Yallop managed to rescue it at the back post with a first time volley across for Kerr who headed wide of the left hand post. Shortly afterwards, there was a potential penalty shout as Ferns goalkeeper Naylor looked to have made contact with Kerr in the box, but nothing was given.

The final 20 minutes saw New Zealand have the greater share of possession and territory. Chance hit a lofted shot which Williams needed to be alive to, but they couldn’t get any closer.

Whilst this was a comfortable win for Australia, there is still plenty to work on for head coach Tony Gustavsson. More 90 minute performances, consistently tighter defence, and continuing to focus on taking chances when they come remain the focus.

Teams: AUSTRALIA: Williams, Carpenter, Kennedy, Polkinghorne, Catley, van Egmond, Foord, Fowler, Raso, Gorry, Kerr. Substitutes: Simon (for Raso 58′), Yallop (for Foord 58′), Wheeler (for van Egmond 58′), Luik (for Polkinghorne 58′), Chidiac (for Fowler 58′), Grant (for Kennedy 72′).

Scorers: Kerr 15′, 32. Raso 17′.

NEW ZEALAND: Naylor, Riley, Moore, Bunge, Hassett, Green, Cleverley, Bowen, Chance, Wilkinson, Satchell. Substitutes: Rennie (for Satchell 20′), Steinmetz (for Cleverley 46′), Ward (for Green 46′), Jale (for Hassett 48′), Stott (for Wilkinson 69′), Rolston (for Rennie 78′).

Scorer: Wilkinson 45+2′.

Referee: Haruna Kanematsu (JPN).

Attendance: 13,077.

Four From Hincks As Dons Ease Past Harlow

AFC Wimbledon 7-1 Harlow Town

By George Jones – AFC Wimbledon Ladies (11/4/22)

Above: Ashlee Hincks smashes home for AFC Wimbledon against Harlow Town at Plough Lane yesterday. Photo: Glyn Roberts.

AFC Wimbledon marked their last game at Plough Lane this season with a swashbuckling 7-1 win over Harlow Town yesterday in the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East.

It didn’t take long for Kelly Highman to open the scoring as she headed home emphatically in the eighth minute after a cross by Ashlee Hincks. There was better to follow as Hincks turned from provider to scorer in stunning style with a fantastic shot from 25 yards out.   

With the Dons 2-0 up, Harlow had their best spell of the game as they searched for a win that would ensure that they avoid relegation. However, fine saves by Lauren Allen denied the visitors and it remained 2-0 heading into half-time, Rebecca Sargent heading against the crossbar twice at the other end. 

Wimbledon started the second-half strongly, aiming to reassert their dominance and take control of the game once again. With only seven second-half minutes gone, Hincks got her second goal of the game by taking the ball around the keeper, before rolling it into the empty net. Less than two minutes later, it was 4-0 with Katie Stanley getting in on the act.

The goals just kept on coming, Hincks completing her hat-trick with a composed finish, which meant that three goals had been scored in just 10 minutes. Despite a goal for the visitors, the Dons were not to be denied in search of more goals and Hincks scored with a cheeky lob, before Chloe Sampson rounded off the scoring.

Speaking after the game, El Sueno Tequila player of the match Ashlee Hincks said: “We had a bit of a disappointing result a couple of weeks ago against Harlow, so it was nice to finish the season at Plough Lane and get some goals in front of a good crowd.”

Wimbledon play their final away league game next Sunday at Norwich City who will need to win to stay on the right side of the drop zone. Dons follow that up with the big FA Women’s National League Plate Final against Nottingham Forest, which is being played at Solihull Moors FC with an 11.00 am kick-off. AFC Wimbledon complete their season against Cambridge United at Carshalton Athletic FC on the 1st May with a 2.00 pm kick-off.

Table From: FA Women’s National League.

Teams: AFC WIMBLEDON: Allen, Oliver, Highman (Fowler), Sargent (Taylor), Billinghman (Childerhouse), Mann (Russell), Stow, Donovan, Stanley (Carter), Hincks, Sampson.

Scorers: Highman 8′. Hincks 25′, 52′, 56′, 73′. Stanley 54′. Sampson 81′.

HARLOW TOWN: Salmons, Bassett, Brooks, Bilson, Farmer, Stacey, Messore, Howell, Dickens, Becs, O’Leary.

Attendance: 247.

NPL Victoria Women Round Two 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 on one game and a wrap of all the other games along with photos (11/4/22).

Above: Action from Calder United (white) v Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).

MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:

Calder United 4-0 Football Victoria Emerging

The game of the week in round two was Calder United’s return to form. Calder are one of the most successful women’s only clubs in Victoria. They are never easybeats but are missing some big names from previous seasons.

Polly Doran, Catherine Zimmerman, Harriet Withers, and Laura Spiranovic are not currently with the squad. Doran made her name with Calder before enhancing it at Victory. She has continued her career in the New South Wales NPL for this season at least.

FV Emerging were one of the most impressive sides last season. As a development squad, it is inevitable that they will lose players each season. Two of last year’s stars, Alana Murphy and Caitlin Karic are currently in the Young Matildas camp.

After a goalless draw in round one, Calder came out of the blocks firing this week. Ava Groba opened the scoring in the sixth minute. FV Emerging had controlled possession in the opening minutes but a Calder counterattack resulted in Groba cutting in past two defenders and finishing in the top corner.

It was another counterattack and another long ball to Groba that doubled Calder’s lead. This time, she slowed down, then quickly changed pace to beat the defender on the outside. Her first goal was on her right foot, this one on the left. They both found the same corner of the net.

Above: An aerial battle between Calder United and Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).

Isabella Accardo seemed to have done everything right. She kept Groba on her left foot, and did not lunge in, but the quick acceleration and finish were perfect.

The FV Emerging defender almost made amends straight away. A defence-splitting pass from deep created a chance in front of goal, but it could not be turned in.

Calder continued to pile on the goals in the second half. Adriana Taranto raced in on goal and eventually, the ball fell to Stacy Papadopoulos who was bundled over in the box.

Taranto made no mistake from the second opportunity in a minute and buries the penalty kick to make it 3-0 with half an hour left to play.

In a day full of memorable goals, the fourth might have been the best. Again Papadopoulos was involved. The attacker had been dangerous since coming off the bench and she teased the defender on the wing before laying the ball back to Alanna Cerne.

Above: Calder United on the front foot against Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).

Cerne took a tough and a few strides forward from deep. She lined up her shot and fired it into the net from 30 yards with enough power to beat Hrehoresin with an early goal of the season contender.

The game ended 4-0 with Calder the much more clinical of the two sides. FV Emerging were attacking and industrious but were caught out by quick attacks by Mark Torcaso’s side.

Sarah Cain was one of Emerging’s best. In a central midfield role, she broke up play and continued to move the ball forward. The young team was only missing some composure in the final third. It was the only thing missing from their performance in an attacking sense. Either the final pass or the finish went astray.

Calder United were not dominant for the entire game but had control of the play even without the ball. Emma Rober’s was composed in midfield and Cori Cain’s long passing was the key to many attacks.

The 4-0 scoreline might seem unfair to FV Emerging, but Calder took their chances and the home side might be disappointed they did not add to the tally.

The confidence that this win provides will come in handy next week when they face the undefeated and untied Bulleen Lions.

Squads: CALDER UNITED: Dall’Oste, Cain, Cerne, Stojevski (Stella 50′), Talevski (Robers 50′), Groba (Papadopoulos 59′), Eike, Dakic. A. Taranto, Mathews, Sardo.

Scorers: Groba 6′, 34′. Taranto 64′. Cerne 81′.

FOOTBALL VICTORIA EMERGING: Hrehoresin, Lohrey, Varley(Beidis 74′), Richards, Sewards, Vlaeminck (Bulic 56′), Curtis, Kilderry, Brown (Liacopoulos 90′), Cain, Accardo, Cortellino.

Referee: Shab Roshan.

Round Two Round-Up:

The second round of the NPLW saw Bulleen Lions continue on their winning ways. Tiffany Eliadis scored first to set them on their way to a 2-0 victory over Box Hill United to put them at the top of the table with Rosie Rodger adding the clincher.

Above: Action from Heidelberg United (yellow) against Alamein. Photo: Sally Tsalikidis.

After a big opening round win, Heidelberg United fell 2-1 to Alamein and a Kat Nikpour brace. Danielle Wise scored for Heidelberg.

Above: Tijan McKenna (blue), scorer of South Melbourne’s second goal in action at Bayside United this weekend. Photo: Bayside United.

Across town, Bayside United drew with South Melbourne 2-2. Julia Budiongo put Bayside ahead before the half hour, but Akeisha Sandhu levelled with half-time in sight. It is an unusually slow start to the season by the traditional power club South Melbourne, but Tijan McKenna added another moment to her growing highlight reel with a goal to put them ahead five minutes into the second half. Amanda Stevenson levelled matters just before the hour mark.

Table Round Two:

From Football Victoria NPL Women’s.

Surrey To Host Afghan Women’s Development Team

11/4/22

Artwork: International Surrey Football. Photo: Girl Tiny Shooter.

International Surrey Football this morning announced that they will be hosting the Afghanistan Women’s Development Team in a friendly fixture on Sunday 29th May at the Meadowbank Stadium in Dorking.

The match which will also mark our Surrey Women’s first full debut since playing their opening trial game against the University of Surrey in 2021 which was won 8-1 by the county team. The game in Dorking will also be Surrey’s first game where fans will be able to attend and support the team on such an important occasion.

The Afghanistan Women’s Development team is made up of players forced to leave their homes in Afghanistan following the fall of Kabul to Taliban forces and the withdrawal of NATO forces in August 2021. The team had been planning to compete in the under-23 Central Asian Football Federation’s women’s championship, unfortunately, those plans fell apart suddenly with the Taliban’s quick advance on the Afghan capital in scenes many of us will remember.

This event placed all Afghan women’s players at immediate risk, with many players encouraged to destroy their own kit to protect themselves and not be identifiable as footballers. Fortunately, many of the players and their families were able to safely leave Afghanistan, the women’s first team, now based in Melbourne, Australia, and recently admitted to the regional Victoria football competition with assistance from A-League side Melbourne Victory FC.

Above: Members of the Afghanistan Women’s Team. Photo via: Surrey International Football.

Meanwhile, the Afghanistan Women’s Development team were initially unable to be evacuated to the UK. The team went into hiding on their journey to Kabul’s airport. They were at the airport when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a gate on the perimeter, killing 170 Afghan nationals as well as 13 US service members. It wasn’t until they had managed to safely cross the border into neighbouring Pakistan that they were able to leave for the UK with the help of Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani that the team were able to reach the UK and are able to train at Leeds United FC.

The Afghanistan Development team recently enjoyed a trip to London with a game against the UK Parliamentary Women’s team with assistance from Amnesty International and played at Dulwich Hamlet and included a visit to Westminster. The Afghan team won every game they played against the British MPs.

The plan to bring the team to Surrey isn’t over just yet, with travel and accommodation costs to cover for what is being planned as a two-day trip for the Afghan players, International Surrey Football will be running a crowdfunding campaign, as well as seeking donations, to help contribute towards the travel and accommodation expenses for their stay in Dorking.

As well as individual donations, larger corporate donors can contact International Surrey Football directly to discuss sponsorship opportunities as well as to help cover the various costs for travel and accommodation.

Donations can be made to: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/afghanistan-to-dorking-football

Above: The Afghan Women’s Development Team pictured after taking on British MPs at Dulwich Hamlet FC. Photo via: International Surrey Football.

Gustavsson & Klimková Outline Aims Ahead of Matildas v Football Ferns II

Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from the head coaches of Australia and New Zealand, Tony Gustavsson and Jitka Klimková ahead of tomorrow’s second game between the two nations in Canberra (11/4/22).

Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson at today’s media conference. Photo: Football Australia.

Tony Gustavsson has said that he is focussing on his team “converting chances when they come” ahead of tomorrow’s friendly with New Zealand in Canberra.

The Matildas dominated the first game against the Football Ferns in Townsville on Friday but had to wait until stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to turn a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 win.

“I don’t want things to change too much for us because I think we played really well on Friday. What we have looked at a lot though is converting chances when they come. We should have been three or four-nil up at half-time. Almost 90% of our attacks in that game ended inside the final third.

“Another pleasing thing was the different ways we were creating chances – central combinations, transitional movements, longer passing sessions, and set plays.”

Gustavsson revealed that as well as regular training, there have been a lot of meetings with players ahead of tomorrow’s game.

“There have been further Asian Cup reviews and reviews of the first New Zealand game.”

In terms of reflecting on the disappointing Asian Cup campaign, the Matildas head coach said: “We had seven players with COVID over Christmas and 12 players playing zero minutes into the weeks leading into it. In the Korea game, we had a 45% reduction in sprints in the second half which impacted the way we want to play.

“In the Korea game, we had some good moments against them in the first half, but the second half it got a bit nervy and we started playing long balls. We also created lots of chances but did not convert. Games are won and lost like that. In the tournament, we conceded only two goals. One against Thailand near the end which was a lack of game management near the end and the free-kick in the wide-area against Korea. Those are things we need to guard against.”

Above: Making a point to the media today, Tony Gustavsson. Photo: Football Australia.

Gustavsson addressed the criticism he is getting in some quarters for results and selections, asking for fairness and understanding the process that he was employed to oversee.

“Being a head coach – there is always criticism. Honestly, I like a debate and there will always be opinions about players selected and tactics. You just need to be fair and educated about what we are doing.

“When I came into the job I mentioned our stats in results against the top sides in the world and from 2011-2020 and you will see bad stats, to be honest. We said we need to play them more to be prepared next time. Therefore, the results in those friendlies may not make expectations. I think we’ve played too many lower-ranked opponents to prepare for tournaments before.

“The other thing is to connect to the Gap report about having more fringe players getting exposed. On average, we have fielded 2.4 new players per decade. Last year we fielded 14 debutants. If you combine that with playing some of the world’s top teams, it’s natural that results will be hard. I’m not saying that to try to protect myself, I’m just saying it is part of a process, a bigger journey.”

Australia’s head coach ended by highlighting what he particularly wants to see from his team tomorrow.

“Tomorrow is a different game and New Zealand will show learnings from the first one too. I want to see how fast we can play – the international game is getting quicker all the time and I want to see what we can do.

“The other focus point for me is in defence. There were times on Friday when we got away with being below 100% at the back. We need to fix that. We can be hurt against the top nations in the world if we are not focussed all the time.

“One of the biggest victories we have now is that we have 100% availability for tomorrow’s game. It makes it tough for me to decide who starts and who will be the game-changers.”

Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková talking to the media today. Photo: NZ Football.

New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková believes that her team are over the devastating way they lost a 1-0 lead against Australia in the first match on Friday.

“The team have recovered. Our sessions in Canberra have had quality and a lot of smiles. We are planning to compete in the same way and obviously have things to improve on. We’re glad to have another chance to play against strong opposition.

“If we see the amount of grit and determination every time we step onto the pitch, I will be really pleased. We can control the game better and keep the ball better no doubt, but we are going through those processes and focussing on them. I was very proud how we fought on Friday.”

Klimková had mixed news about player availability for tomorrow’s game starting with the worst possible outcome for Ria Percival.

“Ria has gone back to her club, Tottenham. She is so important for us. It is a long-term injury, an ACL injury to her left knee. Depending on the assessment she will out for the rest of the year.”

The Ferns though are hopeful of being able to call on Rebekah Stott who missed the game in Townsville. “We have to be careful. There are priorities with players’ health. However, it looks promising. If she is ready, she is always going to play. We think Stotty will step on to the field. She will help us to keep the ball better.”

New Zealand’s head coach highlighted the improvement areas that see is looking for from her team from Friday’s game to tomorrow’s.

“Set piece defending is one of our real work-ons after the first game. Along with this is the opportunity to play to win, to redeem ourselves. We want to show that grit from Friday. If we start to be consistent with that competitiveness and connection on the field, that is the way our future will look like. We need to keep hold of our friend, the ball more. That starts from trusting each other in possession.”

Klimková’s slightly longer-term aims are all about getting the Football Ferns in the right place for a home World Cup.

“The main thing we need is to play more games, keep the process and belief that this team can achieve its first wins in the World Cup and get out of the group. It won’t happen in one or two international windows. It is what we will keep working on for the rest of this year.

“What the players do outside of the window is important. We are making sure that players are continually pushed and learning ahead of July 2023.”

Dussindale See Off Spirited Sprowston

Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers 5-2 Sprowston

At Beccles Town FC.

Above: The scene at College Meadow as Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers faced Sprowston. Sprowston’s Rosie Graham (16) is front of shot. Photo: Darrell Allen.

By Darrell Allen (8/4/22)

Two Norfolk Women and Girls League (NWGFL) Division One sides met on Wednesday night in the NWGFL Plate Cup Semi-Final. Due to lack of pitch availability this game was played on a neutral facility at College Meadow in Beccles, the home of Beccles Town Ladies who are a fellow Step Seven club in the NWGFL. 

After an energetic team talk from manager Dean Leggett, Sprowston started the game on the front foot getting the ball down nicely and playing some good football and it was they who created the first big moment of the match when Emma Clarke thundered an amazing strike at goal that hit the under-side of the bar and bounced the right side of the line to give Sprowston the lead. 

Sprowston were determined and looked most up for it in the initial phases of play to build on the lead but they could not find a second goal.

Dussindale got their own passing game going and Abbie Hutchin was the first to have any real opportunity of note for them when she put a great cross in but the Sprowston keeper Jade Knight was there to deal with it.

A game of you attack, we attack was in progress and a joy to watch as Vicky Leyer for Dussindale hit a great shot but it was parried by Knight and cleared. Siesha Humphries hit a shot too, but it was high and to the right of the Sprowston goal. Shanice Sutton was then fouled in the box but penalty appeals were waved away.

Dussindale managed to level the score as their period of pressure finally paid off as Vicky Leyer forced Sprowston into an error and slotted beyond keeper Knight and in to level the scores at 1-1. 

Dussindale were in their groove, a wonderful free-kick was tipped over by Jade Knight but they had better luck when taking the lead after a clever ball was played across to Leyer from Calista Tink and Leya chipped it over the keeper and in.

Above: Sprowston boss Dean Leggett addresses his players at half-time. Photo: Darrell Allen.

A crowd of more than 40 was in attendance which was a good number considering both teams had to travel from Norfolk into Suffolk for this fixture. A brilliant game continued with Sprowston’s Courtney Leggett having a free-kick that went all the way through and straight at Cole in goal. 

Sprowston’s effort, attitude and togetherness was outstanding as they continued to go toe to toe with Dussindale, who are regarded along with current league leaders Mulbarton as one of the best teams the NWGFL has to offer. 

They seized their moment and levelled the score when they scored another impressive goal when Katie Fray hit a strike from distance that went over Cole’s head and into the net to make the scores level at 2-2 which it remained at the break.

Sprowston started the second half well, but couldn’t make the most of their early pressure as Dussindale gradually began to get a grip of the second half and after some excellent build up play it was Vicky Leyer again who scored to give Rovers the lead with a wonderful strike from distance to complete her hat trick.

Dussindale made it four from the spot. Shanice Sutton was through and brought down by Sprowston goalkeeper Jade Knight who was shown a red card. Lois Irving went in goal but there was no stopping Shanice Sutton who superbly dispatched the penalty to give Dussindale a two-goal lead.

With Rovers having the player advantage they dominated the possession in the late stages of the contest and Vicky Leyer added her fourth and Dussindale’s fifth with a smart finish across the keeper and in to round off the scoring. 

Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers will now take part in the Norfolk Women and Girls League Plate Cup Final and will face either Caister or Freethorpe who play their Semi Final on Sunday 24th April at 1.00pm. 

Player of the Match: Vicky Leyer (Dussindale and Hellesdon)

Teams: DUSSINDALE & HELLESDON ROVERS: Cole, Wilson, Humphries, Sutton, Roe, Nobbs, Whetherell, Tink, Leyer, Hutchin, Brister. Substitute: Rusted.

Scorers: Leyer (4), Sutton (pen).

SPROWSTON: Knight, Curtis, Whayman, K.Braithwaite, M.Braithwaite, Irving, Shipman, Fray, Clarke, Morris, Leggett, Substitute: Winter, Graham.  

Scorers: Clarke, Fray.

Referee: Ryan Starkey.

Attendance: 40.

Australia v New Zealand: Media Conference Wrap

Impetus Ben Gilby was in the post-match media conferences and heard the views of Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson and midfielder Emily van Egmond plus New Zealand’s head coach Jitka Klimková and goalkeeper Victoria Esson (8/4/22).

Above: Tony Gustavsson, who saw plenty to be proud about in his Matildas team’s performance today. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson expressed his delight at The Matildas never-say-die effort which saw them score two goals in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to seal a 2-1 win over New Zealand in Townsville.

“I am so proud. It is all credit to the players. I was not surprised as I know the players’ belief and mindset. We panicked a bit against Korea in the Asian Cup in the second half, but that wasn’t the case today. It really impressed me that the players were not satisfied to get back to 1-1, they wanted to go out to get the win.”

Highlighting some of the aspects of the game that pleased him most, the Matildas head coach highlighted the quality of his team’s build-up.

“We felt we could do more in our build-up play after the Asian Cup to bring it back to what we saw at the Brazil game. Then think about the first half against the USA, we were losing, but the ability in build-up was good.”

“Also, Mini (Katrina Gorry) came in and gave us a great match and some great combination play. That’s another step in the right direction. I would have loved to have had Mini in the Asian Cup. I want to use her as a six due to her positioning and passing which is phenomenal. She can activate our central diamond and that’s great. But her defensive activity was brilliant. Her duels with Hannah Wilkinson were world-class.

“This was her first step back. We need to expose her now to top-ranked opposition where the pressure on us is high for 90 minutes.”

Gustavsson had pointed out in his pre-game media conference yesterday that he expected to see a lot of substitutions made during the game as a result of the late arrival of many of his players into camp from Europe. In the end, apart from Caitlin Foord coming on at the start of the second half, only two further changes were made with Tameka Yallop coming on with 12 minutes left and Cortnee Vine in stoppage time.

“We had multiple pre-planned subs planned for tonight with the jet-lag and well-being angle,” the Matildas head coach admitted, “but the live stats coming in showing the players physical output had our numbers much lower than normal. A player recommended to play just 60 minutes had figures way lower than expected, so the Sports Science people gave me the OK to keep them on.

“As a result of that, when we used the subs tonight, I wanted to do it tactically. Normally we have two days between games, now we have three days to recover so many of the players who played today would be ready to play again on Tuesday. We had a year of experimentation and looked at many players, now we need to narrow things down. It’s a balance to make.

“Sam (Kerr) had a limitation on her in terms of how long she would play, but the way we dominated, her stats meant she could stay on. She was tired, but always finds a way to find that extra edge. There is no coincidence that she is who she is and the fact that she is our captain.

“It says a lot about our players that some only arrived on Wednesday, but they are so determined to be here, part of the team, and put on the performance they did tonight.”

Above: Emily van Egmond pictured in action at the Asian Cup in January. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia midfielder Emily van Egmond who scored her country’s equalizing goal two minutes into stoppage time revealed that she never had any doubts that they would comeback.

“It shows the belief we have in the team. You can have 90% of the ball but not win, that’s the game, it’s about how you work and your mindset.”

The former West Ham United player highlighted the importance of Katrina Gorry in Australia’s performance today.

“It’s so good to have Mini back. She contributed immensely tonight. Playing with her is super fun. Having Mini there at six means I can play further forward. She was dominant in that six role. That allowed the rest of us to push on up-front.”

Above: Football Ferns head coach Jitka Klimková. Photo: NZ Football.

New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková felt nothing but pride in her team’s performance.

“We are still in that stage where our team is getting together. If we are going to play the way we played today, we all will be very proud of each other. I’m happy about the process, not about the result. For 90+2 minutes it was an unbelievable performance and I was a very proud coach.

“We will look at the whole game and how we performed and fought to the end. That is what we will take from the game. We have learned a lesson to keep fighting until the end. It is an unbelievable journey from our team. We are very proud.

“We know we were playing at the home of the Matildas. Our goal was not beating them, but how we play. We played to win and that is how we want to play in the future.”

Klimková was full of praise for her goalkeeper Victoria Esson who produced a number of outstanding saves throughout the game. “She is a quality keeper. She always focuses and when she has a chance she takes it like she did today. She kept us in the game.”

The Football Ferns head coach revealed the latest news about the knee injury that Tottenham Hotspur’s Ria Purcival suffered in the first half. “Ria will be assessed and scanned tomorrow morning. We need to wait until the result and will inform everyone then. Fingers crossed it won’t be a long-term injury.”

Above: Victoria Esson, who had a superb game for the Football Ferns. Photo: Hanne Davis/stuff.co.nz

Goalkeeper Victoria Esson reflected on a bitter-sweet night for her. “It is gut-wrenching losing how we did. In saying that I’m proud of the team as at times we had to ride out a storm and we scored a great goal. Our defending was phenomenal and there were bodies on the line.”

“I wasn’t concerned by all the shots coming down on me as I knew the game would turn in our favour at some point.”

For Impetus’ match report of Australia v New Zealand, click: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/04/08/never-say-die-matildas-take-it-at-the-death/

Never Say Die Matildas Take It At The Death

Australia 2-1 New Zealand

By Ben Gilby (8/4/22)

Above: The Matildas celebrate Sam Kerr’s late winner against the Football Ferns in Townsvile today. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia turned the game on its head with two goals in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to defeat New Zealand 2-1 in Townsville.

The Matildas were dominant throughout with 16 shots on target to the Football Ferns one and earned 72% of possession. Yet, as was the case during the Asian Cup, they failed to turn these chances into goals and trailed from just after the half-hour mark.

Australia named Katrina Gorry in their starting line-up, for her first international appearance in over 800 days after a pause in her career to give birth. The midfielder was deployed in the number six role which allowed Emily van Egmond the potential to get forward more. Who to fill the number six position for The Matildas has been an issue for Tony Gustavsson for some time. In the first half, Gorry offered enough in her link-up play to suggest that she offers a solution.

New Zealand had not beaten Australia since October 1994. In the intervening 27 and a half years, the Matildas had won 26 of the 29 matches between the two sides. For much of the first half, it looked as though that trend would continue.

Put simply, Australia were rampant – but in a worrying flashback to their Asian Cup campaign, for all the possession held and shots on target (71% and six shots to one in the first half alone), they could not translate that into a scoreboard lead.

The Matildas imposed their high press, fast passing game from the off with Gorry and Fowler prominent. The latter, made herself available both wide and centrally and gave yet another performance of maturity and skill way beyond her teenage years.

It took Australia just three minutes to fashion their first chance when Victoria Esson saved Hayley Raso’s shot after the Manchester City star was played in by Fowler. Less than 60 seconds later, Kyah Simon got up highest to direct a thumping header narrowly wide.

The pressure continued to build and with nine minutes on the clock, Simon had a shot blocked on the left which was recycled back into the box by Steph Catley. Clare Polkinghorne directed a header goalwards but Esson stretched out a left palm to deny the Queenslander with a sensational save.

There were more difficulties for the Football Ferns when Spurs’ Ria Percival twisted her knee when changing direction off the ball and had to leave the pitch to be replaced by Meikayla Moore.

Shortly afterwards, there was another opportunity for Australia as Fowler’s long ball found Alanna Kennedy near the six-yard box. The Manchester City defender’s flick header was claimed by Esson.

With 26 minutes played, New Zealand earned their first corner which only led to another Matildas attack after Polkinghorne comfortably headed clear. Raso made yards down the right and squared for Kerr but to no avail.

As was all too familiar from Australia’s last outing against Korea in the Asia Cup Quarter-Finals, creating umpteen chances and missing them can often lead to disaster. Just after the half hour, Meikayla Moore, on as a sub for the injured Percival hit a long ball from central midfield for Anna Green on the left. Green hit a sensational shot on the volley which, some will claim was an attempt at a cross, flew into the far corner. Whilst there was a whiff of offside about it, the goal stood and it was another nasty reminder for Australia of their nightmare in India.

Above: New Zealand celebrate Anna Green’s superb goal. Photo: NZ Football.

The second half was a similar story. Caitlin Foord was introduced for her hundredth cap in place of Kyah Simon. Raso sped along the right and cut in to hit a shot which Esson smothered well. Shortly afterwards, Fowler hit an effort from the ‘D’ which was held by the impressive Football Ferns goalkeeper.

The Matildas were now laying siege to the New Zealand goal. Foord saw an effort come back off the bar, Fowler hit a shot narrowly over the top and Claudia Bunge was forced to clear off the line. Still Australia could not score.

At this stage, it seemed puzzling that Tony Gustavsson was not making changes. He had highlighted in his media conference the day before that we would see lots of rotation in the game to aid players, some of whom only arrived on Wednesday, but his second substitute was not made until the 78th minute when Tameka Yallop replaced Mary Fowler. The Matildas head coach would explain in his post-match media conference that in-action stats coming through meant that the starting players were not showing signs of fatigue that necessitated their replacement amidst the team’s domination. For coverage of the full post-match media conference, click here: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/04/08/australia-v-new-zealand-media-conference-wrap/

Cortnee Vine, an absolute sensation for Sydney FC in the A-League Women and one of the positives from the Asia Cup disappointments came on in stoppage time at the end of the match. Despite only being part of the action for a short period, Vine showed her worth as the game turned with typical Matildas never-say-die spirit.

Above: Australian joy after equalizing. Photo: Football Australia.

Four minutes into stoppage time, Carpenter went on a typically marauding run along the right and cut back for van Egmond to sweep home a side-footed shot.

Then, just two minutes later, great work from Vine along the right won a corner from Bunge. Catley curled an effort in which was met by the head of Kennedy and Kerr nipped in to nod home from just outside the six-yard box.

It was a staggering turnaround. In terms of chances created, possession and spirit, Australia deserved the win. Yet, you can’t help but feel that the problem of turning chances into goals is an issue that needs solving.

New Zealand were well organized and defended superbly. It was a devastating way for the game to end, but Jitka Klimková’s side will take many positives from this.

Above: The Australia team line-up in Townsville before kick-off. Photo: Football Australia.

Teams: AUSTRALIA: Williams, Catley, Polkinghorne, Kennedy, Carpenter, Fowler, van Egmond, Gorry, Raso, Kerr, Simon. Substitutes used: Foord (for Simon), Yallop (for Fowler), Vine (for Raso).

Scorers: van Egmond 90+4′, Kerr 90+6′.

NEW ZEALAND: Esson, Bowen, Bunge, Green, Riley, Cleverley, Hassett, Percival, Chance, Satchell, Wilkinson. Substitutes: Moore (for Percival), Rennie (for Hassett), Anton (for Green), Collins (for Satchell), Steinmetz (for Cleverley), Jale (for Chance).

Scorer: Green 32′.

Attendance: 10,779.