Impetus’ Martin Townleywas in today’s Wales media conference and heard from head coach Gemma Graingerand captain Sophie Ingle(27/6/22).
Above: Gemma Grainger at today’s media conference. Photo: FAW.
Wales manager Gemma Grainger spoke to the media ahead of her side’s friendly international against New Zealand. The match on Tuesday will take place in Pinata, Spain where the squad has been enjoying some warm weather training.
“Since we travelled out last Wednesday, we’ve had a real opportunity to enjoy some time together both on and off the pitch. “That was always the plan really to come to pinata was that we had that time, which we haven’t really had as a team before.”
This camp is the last time the squad will get together before they face Greece and Slovenia in their final World Cup Qualifiers. Wales, who are second in their group will make the playoffs if they can win the two games and Grainger is using the time to keep improving her side.
“It’s given us an opportunity to speak about some key themes that we want to talk about as a team to take on to the pitch and really continue our improvement as a team on and off the pitch.
“So, the week is a week has been great, it is hot, I think we knew it was going to be hard. There’s an enjoyment part to that when we’re not training. But then when we are training, we obviously have planned for the heat.
“It’s been quite a nice opportunity to do a different type of session, you know, a different type of coaching session, because when it is hot, we do get the opportunity to you know, to talk a little bit more whereas, sometimes in the cold, we must move things on quite quickly. So nice relaxed vibe, but preparation going well so far.”
Grainger has continued playing opposition of a higher ranking in friendly games with New Zealand ranked 22nd in the current FIFA rankings. “We’ll play a higher-ranked opposition, but what we’re hoping to get out of it is a competitive game.
Above: Wales boss Gemma Grainger emphasised the importance to her side of playing higher-ranked opposition regularly. Photo: FAW.
“We want to utilise the game to continue our progress. And with preparation for September in mind, you know, New Zealand will be an opportunity to play a higher-ranked nation. And then that will build into the September prep nicely.
With the option to use up to six substitutions in this game the Wales manager will make use of all options, believing that the squad depth she has available is exciting.
“When we had the development camp on Monday and Tuesday, we’re really starting to explore and learn more about the whole group, because what we do know is that player depth and squad depth is a real sign and correlation between successful teams.
“You know, when I look at the teams in the European Championships this summer, and the teams that people tip to win it, there’s no clear favourite, but the teams that have the best depth, there’s a good opportunity for those teams”
Grainger also praised the way the New Zealand side will play and that she is excited for the game
“You know, they like to play football, which is a credit to them, they have a real clear playing style in terms of how they want to play. They have some fantastic qualities, both in and out of possession. And they’re an opposition and we’re excited to test ourselves against”
The last meeting of the sides saw Wales win a close game 1-0 with Kayleigh Green getting the winning goal.
Above: Sophie Ingle speaking to the media today. Photo: FAW.
Wales captain Sophie Ingle spoke about the positives and challenges of how Wales’ warm-weather training camp today.
“Yeah, it has been nice. Obviously, it’s always helps training when it’s warm weather, but it’s tough as well, because it’s a bit warmer. And, you know, we’re out of season. So that heat kind of gets to us a little bit quicker than it usually would.
“Away from football pitches, we’ve done some team bonding activities, down the beach, and just to get out the hotel and enjoy the nice weather.”
Ingle will lead Wales into their final World Cup qualifying games in September and revealed that the squad have been using this time to prepare for those games.
“Yeah, more prep for September. I think the girls know that. Obviously, we’ve got New Zealand to play, and they play potentially a different way to the two teams we’re coming up against, but we can still work on things for September.”
Wales beat the Football Ferns the last time the side met in Cardiff and the Wales captain reflected on what transpired in that encounter.
“I remember a lot of rain! I remember was it Kayleigh Green who scored. “It was quite an even match game. I think we were probably a little bit better in possession than them. But it could have gone either way.”
Wales are playing just one game in this window, but New Zealand travelled to Norway on Saturday losing 2-0. Ada Hegerberg and Guro Bergsvand getting the goals. Ingle is hoping that the busy schedule can work to Wales advantage.
“They’ve travelled to Norway, and then got here yesterday, so hopefully they are a bit fatigued which might work in our favour. But they’re quite direct team, they’re athletic, they like to get it to their number nine, or their striker and kind of play off her.”
“We want to win, and that’s why we play football, but it’s the performance at the end of the day. We’ve worked on a few things this camp on the training pitch. That’s kind of what I want to see that comes out in this game, that the things we’ve worked out on the training pitches, we’ve been able to transfer into a game situation.”
With two big games top come in the Autumn, Ingle emphasised what making the World Cup in 2023 would mean the world to her.
“It would obviously mean the world to me and the girls if we do qualify for the World Cup. You know, not just the World Cup, we want to go on to then qualify for the next Euros and so on and so on.
“We want to put Welsh women’s football on the map. I think we’re going in the right direction.”
Above: Action from Austria’s game with Northern Ireland. Photo: Irish FA.
Austria have assembled a squad that contains players who are more than capable of troubling the top nations. With Arsenal goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger at the back, and quality from the likes of Viktoria Schnaderbeck, Carina Wenninger, Sarah Zadrazil, and Nicole Billa, the Austrians are capable of a strong tournament.
Above: Irene Furhmann, Austria’s head coach. Photo: Wiener Zeitung.
Irene Fuhrmann took over as national coach in July 2020. Fuhrmann is totally immersed in the direction of her national team. FOr almost 10 years, from 2011 to 2020 she was assistant to Dominik Thalhammer and was a part of Austria’s superb achievements at Euro 2017 when they reached the semi-finals.
Before that, in 2008 she was a coach for the Austrian U19 team. Most of her football career was spent at USC Landhaus Wien. The challenge for Fuhrmann and her team will not be easy, to overcome what was achieved in the last Euro, but the Austrian fans can rest easy, they are in the hands of a great coach.
Euros History:
In 2013 the Austrian women’s team came close to qualifying, but lost the playoff 3-1 on aggregate against Russia. But in 2017, they finally made it, and what a tournament they had. After getting through the group stage with wins over Switzerland (1-0) and Iceland (3-0), plus a 1-1 draw with France, they overcame Spain after a penalty shoot-out. This set up a semi-final with Denmark, which again went to penalties, but this time the Austrians were eliminated 3-0.
Qualifying:
Above: Austria’s Laura Feiersinger (black shirt) takes on Serbia’s Tirana Filipovic in their qualifying game. Photo: Imago.
Austria qualified as one of the best second-place finishers in a group. Their campaign opened with a 3-0 over North Macedonia. The second game was more complicated, but a solitary goal from striker Nicole Billa in the 12th minute gave them the second win, this time away in Serbia. The third game repeated the dose against North Macedonia, but this time away, 3-0 was the score.
The matches against Kazakhstan were the easiest matches, the first game was decided with a 9-0 in favor of the Austrians with four goals from Hickelsberger and three from Nicole Billa. In the away match they won 5-0. Those games were just training to get to the most difficult matches of the qualifying campaign against the French favorites, the first game was in Vienna, and the match ended 0-0. In the game that decided the first place in the group, Austria defeated 3-0 by lesBleus. The last game was key, since the three points would clinch qualification as one of the best second-placed nations, and it was not until the 81st minute when Nicole Billa scored the winning goal against Serbia.
Strengths:
Without a doubt, it is their defense. In all the qualifiers for the European Championship, they only conceded three goals, and all of those came in one game against the French and are currently looking to repeat that stat in the World Cup qualifiers. This defence is commanded by veteran Bayern Munich defenders Carina Wenninger and Tottenham’s Viktoria Schnaderbeck, accompanied by English Arsenal player Laura Wienroither, and a group of young defenders who play for different FrauenBundesliga teams such as Katharina Naschenweng and Celina Degen from Hoffenheim. They will seek to zero out the hosts, plus powerful Norway with Northern Ireland also in the group.
Areas For Development:
A fairly competitive and balanced team wherever you look at it, a couple of excellent goalkeepers, defense is their strong point, a young but experienced midfield, and a forward line capable of scoring goals against the best teams in the world. However, they have a tough group. Opening against the powerful English, and close against one of the favorites, the Norwegians with a must-win game against Northern Ireland in between.
The player to watch for Austria is Nicole Billa: A born, lethal scorer who is at the right time, scoring goals and providing assists. The 26-year-old Kufstein striker is the main card that the Austrian team could be so strong. Billa made her debut at the age of 14 with Wacker Innsbruck, later moving to one of the most popular teams, St. Pölten-Spratzern, and from there he made the jump to the FrauenBundelisga with TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in 2015. There at Hoffenheim, she had a quiet start, scoring six goals in her first two complete seasons.
But she did not lose patience, nor did the team lose it with her, in 2018/19, she scored nine goals, and for the following season, she finished as runner-up in the scoring charts of the FrauenBundesliga with 18 goals. In the 20-21 season and at the age of 25, she won the scoring title that season with 23 goals, becoming the first Austrian to achieve such an achievement in the German league. These are numbers that make their rivals in Group A worry a lot about her. Regarding the national team, Nicole Billa has impressive numbers, in 77 games she has scored 42 goals, although she has never scored a goal in the European Championship, so in this summer’s competition she will go out with everything to get her first goal.
Prediction:
It is unlikely the Austrians will have another fairytale-like Euro 2017 and it seems to me that they will go home early. They share a group with a couple of favourites. England will seek to get rid of the bad taste in their mouths of that Euro 2005 when they were hosts and did not manage to even get out of the group stage. Just a few months ago they met at Southampton, and England struggled to beat Austria 1-0, with that result the Austrians will cling to a good result against the hosts.
They also share a group with Norway, which is motivated by the return of one of the best players in the world, Ada Hegerberg. If they want to aspire to a hypothetical second round, this is the key game. Northern Ireland complete the group, and even this will pose a threat for Austria as the Northern Irish already drew against Austria in recent times.
Group Fixtures:
6th July: England, 8pm, Old Trafford, Manchester.
11th July: Northern Ireland, 5pm, St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton.
15th July: Norway, 8pm, Amex Stadium, Brighton.
Impetus is previewing a different nation every day between now and the start of the European Championships. Click below to read the previously published articles:
Impetus’ Ben Gilby was in the post-match press conference which followed an experimental Australia squad’s 7-0 defeat to Spain. Heheard the Matildas head coach Tony Gustavssonoutline how initial plans to field his strongest squad went up in flames and how he believes that deeper investment is needed to bring the next tier of players up to top international standard (26/6/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson in his post-match media conference after last night’s 7-0 loss to Spain. Photo: Football Australia.
Tony Gustavsson went into this clash with Spain claiming that regardless of the outcome on the scoreboard, finding just one new player for his World Cup squad would be a good result. After his team’s second-half mauling by the Euros-bound Spanish, there are more searching topics for him to examine.
“I’m always honest,” he said. “When we planned this match, the plan was to have our best team here. We wanted to match ourselves against one of the best teams in the world. We knew 12 months ago that this was the only time this year we could go up against one of the best teams in Europe, a week out from the Euros.
“We would have loved to have had the strongest group here. But, at the end of the day, we had to look at well-being in a long-term way. We entered into a contract with the Spanish so the game was always going ahead.”
Above: Lots to ponder now for Tony Gustavsson and Football Australia. Photo: Football Australia.
Asked about what this result shows about the depth of the Australian game that Gustavsson has long made a point at wanting to work on, the head coach said: “We need long-term answers. It’s about legacy from 2023 and the investment after the World Cup. The answers we have now is a wake-up call for a lot of people.
“It was too fast for some players. They need to be exposed to that. I’m not saying that to criticise these players, I’m saying it to get them to where they need to be. If they are not quick enough to get into the right positions, we’re not going to win.”
Given the squad that was available to him for this match, Gustavsson outlined how he approached the clash.
“We wanted to look at this game as two forty-five-minute periods. In the first of those periods, we got answers showing that, considering the experience, or lack of experience that we had on the park, to commit to a game-plan like that against Spain, one of the best teams in the world, I was happy with the girls’ efforts and commitments. The effort in the defending – it was a good mix between high pressing and low walk defending.
Above: Katrina Gorry’s performance was one of the few positives for Tony Gustavsson last night. Photo: Football Australia.
“A real positive was Katrina Gorry. ‘Mini’ was world-class. She showed she has the tactical ability to match any player in the Spain team. If she can get in an environment where she can be forced to play at maximum speed football, it will be even better for her. This is not me saying she doesn’t play at a club where she can do this, it is about her working on it now between international camps.”
As he moved on to the plan for the second half, Gustavsson recognised that he knew it was always going to be difficult.
“The second half, we looked at different things, different players, and I want to be very clear now that it’s not about blaming players for this loss. It’s more about representing the situation that we are in right now (in terms of a less experienced squad in this international window).
“We finished the game with four players who are playing NPL and one player in college, and to expect those individual players to match up against Spain, it’s not fair for them to take that hit.
“I will take that hit as a coach. I said it from day one, we need answers. We need investment in our program, and I think this was very clear. We need to make investment and players need to get into an environment where they can thrive and be ready for international football.”
Above: Teagan Micah – has impressed when given chances for Australia and is in consistent form for her club side in Sweden. Photo: David Lidstrom.
One of several key matters to consider once the dust settles on this defeat is Gustavsson’s inability to settle on a regular goalkeeper. With Teagan Micah regularly playing well at international level when she gets a chance, and consistently at a high level for her club side, Rosengård, the time has come to give her a consistent run of 90-minute opportunities for the Matildas.
It would appear that Lydia Williams will play at least some part in next week’s friendly in Portugal to claim her hundredth cap, but with chances few and far between for her at Arsenal, and the Rosengård custodian in consistently good form, it is time for Micah to get as many minutes as possible behind her in the national team.
Above: The French national team pictured after qualifying for the European Championships. Photo: Equipe de France Feminine.
The France women’s national football team is known or nicknamed as Les Bleues (The Blue ones) and are currently placed third in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings.
There are five players from both Olympique Lyonnais and Paris Saint-Germain in this squad; this is not surprising as these two teams dominated D1 Arkema this season. Furthermore, most of these 10 players will probably be in the starting team.
There were though some surprises. Amandine Henry (Olympique Lyonnais), in pretty good shape in the end of D1 Arkema season and scorer of an outstanding goal in Champions League Final, is not in the squad. According to a lot of people who follow women’s football, it is only because she spoke out against Corinne Diacre in previous years in the media.
Some players not selected are easier to explain in my opinion. Eugénie Le Sommer, Olympique Lyonnais, is still a great player but she had not played a lot this season and was never in the starting team when she came back to Lyon from her loan at OL Reign in USA. Goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi of OL Reign then Olympique Lyonnais this season has only rarely played when she came back from USA, apart from when Christiane Endler was injured. Perle Morroni, Olympique Lyonnais, lost her starting place in Lyon team for Selma Bacha.
The Head Coach:
Above:France head coach Corinne Diacre. Photo: Picture Alliance.
Corinne Diacre, 47 years old, has been in charge since 2017. She spent her entire playing career with Soyaux. She earned 121 caps for France, scoring 14 goals, and appeared at the 1997, 2001, and 2005 European Championships. Diacre also scored the goal that ensured France’s first-ever qualification for the World Cup of 2003.
Diacre’s coaching career saw her as Soyaux’s manager and assistant to the national side and notably, in 2014 she took charge of men’s second-tier side Clermont Foot. This was the first time a woman had led a men’s team in the top two divisions of a European league. She left the role in 2017 to take over the head coach position for the French Women’s National Team.
Controversy has followed Diacre with selections for the national side and some players have spoken openly in the media to question her decision-making.
Euros History:
France have appeared six times in the European Championships. They first qualified in 1997. Their best results came in making the Quarter-Finals in 2009, 2013, and 2017.
Qualifying:
France topped Group G with seven wins and a draw. They did not concede a goal throughout. The campaign included wins of 12-0, 11-0, and 7-0 over Kazakhstan (first scoreline), and North Macedonia (remaining two scorelines). Austria was the only team to prevent France from winning when they earned a 0-0 draw.
Strengths:
Most players have a lot of international experience either with France national team or with their club side. France has several top players capable of outstanding performances and they played more and more like a team over the last few months.
Development Areas:
They need to be more efficient in attack and be able to keep the ball in midfield.
Key Players:
Above: Wendie Renard, who remains one of the world’s top defenders. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
WendieRenard who has a lot of experience as centre-back and is devastating in the air, particularly from corners and free-kicks close to the goal. There is also Marie-Antoinette Katoto who was the top scorer with 18 goals in D1 Arkema this season. Selma Bacha has been outstanding. As well as putting in a superb personal display in the Champions League Final, she took the honour of providing the some of the most assists in the competition with nine. This is on top of seven assists this season in D1 Arkema, a competition that she scored also three goals in.
Above: Ella Palis in action for Bordeaux against Olympique Lynnais. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
One To Watch:
Ella Palis. 23 years old of Bordeaux, with four caps in the midfield. Palis has been selected in almost all the junior national squads and was the captain of France’s U19 team during the U19 Euros in 2018. She has made a lot of progress this year and could be a new key player of France team
Prediction:
France should finish top of Group D as they are facing nations in Italy, Iceland, and Belgium who are below them in the rankings, although it must be said Italy has made a lot of progress in recent years. Personally, I think France could go far in this summer’s tournament and reach the final.
Group Games:
10th July: Italy, 8pm, New York Stadium, Rotherham.
14th July: Belgium, 8pm, New York Stadium, Rotherham.
18th July: Iceland, 8pm, New York Stadium, Rotherham.
by Darrell Allen at Elland Road for Impetus(25/6/22).
Above: Beth Mead in celebration mode afterscoring against the Netherlands at Elland Road. Photo: Lionesses.
The Lionesses overcame an early setback to come from behind and see off the Netherlands in superb style at Elland Road.
The Dutch took the lead through a beautifully placed header from Lieke Martens but their joy didn’t last long. A Lucy Bronze equaliser before halftime was followed by a second-half brace from Beth Mead and further goals from Ella Toone plus one from Lauren Hemp.
The game was an enjoyable watch throughout as the 19,365 battled the UK-wide travel problems of the week to ensure a fantastic atmosphere for the Euro 2022 warm-up match at the home of Leeds United.
A slow start from England saw them caught out when careless passing allowed the Netherlands to take the lead. A corner from Sherida Spitse found Martens who headed past Mary Earps at the far post.
Above: Netherlands joy after Lieke Martens put them ahead at Elland Road. Photo: Oranje Leeuwinnen.
This was a contest which saw England wear their new orange away kit and the Netherlands playing in white. Confusion and disappointment didn’t last long as the Elland Road crowd got behind the team in superb style.
Lucy Bronze somehow found the net when her cross evaded Netherlands keeper Sari Van Veenendaal to level the scores. It was one of those that clearly was not meant as a shot on goal, but came at a very welcome time in the game.
The Dutch were given a lifeline when Alex Greenwood brought down Danielle Van de Donk in the area and the penalty was awarded at the conclusion of a VAR review.
Van De Donk was unable to restore the visitors’ lead as her penalty struck the post, in the last of any noteworthy action for the Netherlands.
Lauren Hemp by her own standards had been quiet in the first half but came to life when she ran down the wing and found Beth Mead who got the ball and slid in to finish at the back post. England led within a minute of the penalty miss.
Above: Lauren Hemp, who would go on to score a great goal herself, was the provider for Beth Mead’s first goal. Photo: Lionesses.
Toone, like Mead also a substitute on the evening was next to find the net when her shot went through the hands of Van Veenendal into the corner in what was a very poor mistake from the Netherlands keeper.
The fourth was quick to follow as Bronze stormed down the right and found Toone who saw her shot hit the post but come back for Lauren Hemp to finish wonderfully with a volley to put the game out of sight.
Mead rounded off the scoring and made it a brace for herself when she finished well from inside the box. Alessia Russo almost added a sixth but her ferocious strike hit the bar.
A further plus point on the evening was the inclusion of Fran Kirby, her first start for many months as she continues her recovery from recent injury and illness setbacks.
A night of so many positives and which ended with a lap of appreciation from the players. With the Euros beginning on 6th July, there is so much anticipation and excitement for the tournament, especially with England on such fine form.
There is one final warm-up match for England with Sarina Weigman’s team visiting Switzerland in Zurich this Thursday at 5.00pm UK time.
Above: Rachel Daly and Millie Bright together after the match. Photo: Lionesses.
NETHERLANDS: Van Veenendaal, Wilms, Van Der Gragt, Nouwen, Janssen, Groenen, Pelova, Spitse, Roord, Beerensteyn, Martens. Subs: Van Dongen, Miedema, Van De Donk, Jansen, Dijkstra, Van Domselaar, Leuchter, Casparij, Olislagers, Egurrola, Brugts, Lorsheyd.
Impetus welcomes Martin Townley who will be covering Welsh women’s football at both club and international levels for us. He was in Wales’ media conference yesterday to hear from Rhiannon Roberts ahead of the game against New Zealand in Spain (25/6/22).
Above: Rhiannon Roberts in yesterday’s media conference. Photo: FAW.
After a fantastic season with Liverpool, Rhiannon Roberts is with the Wales national team for a friendly against New Zealand. The match, which will be Wales’s final preparations before the final World Cup Qualifiers in September, will take place on Tuesday 28th June in Pinatar, Spain.
Roberts was part of the Liverpool team that won the FA Women’s Championship this season and she reflected with the media about what an amazing season it had been.
“Yeah, it was unbelievable. It was a great season, you know, Matt (Beard) came in and he’s brought in good people staff, and players, and we’ve gelled well. It’s just such a cool group of players to be in. I think that’s what got us on the over the line.
“It was just a fantastic season, winning the league obviously, with the players that we’ve got, it’s just brilliant. You know, it’s nice to win the league, but winning with a good group of people as well is even better.”
The training camp and match with New Zealand will be the last camp before Wales head into two vital World Cup qualifying matches against Greece and Slovenia. Winning both would see the Welsh team make the World Cup play-offs for the first time. Roberts believes that this is a great chance for the squad to work on areas they need to improve on.
“It just gives us a chance to improve on certain points that we want to work on. And obviously, get together as a group. Otherwise, it’d be a large gap without seeing everyone.
“I think there’s always excitement for every camp that we come on, to be honest. So, I don’t think that really changes so much. The environment stays the same. And then it’s just the fact of taking one game at a time. And yeah, hopefully we can get to the next level. But yeah, it just one game at a time.”
Above: Rhiannon Roberts in action for Liverpool. Photo: Liverpool FC Women.
Wales beat New Zealand 1-0 when the sides last met in Cardiff, but the Football Ferns higher ranking will provide a good test for Gemma Grainger’s side.
“It just gives us a chance to prove ourselves against a higher-ranked opponent. And yeah, just work on things that we need to work on. We want to compete against the higher nations. So, it’s just another test for us. And hopefully, we can give them a good run.”
Before the World Cup Qualifiers, the Euros will take place across July, Wales narrowly missed out on a play-off place and Roberts believes it will drive on the Welsh players.
“I think he just gives you an odd drive to go and achieve in the next tournament and better yourself. Just do better than you did in the last game all the time. It’s a tough one obviously to watch. It’s tough, but you know, at the end of the day, there’s nothing you can do about it that, it’s out of your control now. So, our focus is the next one. And hopefully qualifying for a World Cup.”
Roberts is joined in Spain by Helen Ward, and she opened up on how the two have helped each other keep going over the years.
“She has helped me settle in this team so well, we are stuck at the hip a little bit. She’s just a warming person. She’s just a comfortable person to be around. We just help each other mentally. And, yeah, I tried to keep her going for the last couple years, to be honest. I certainly can’t change my roommate; I can’t do it to myself. But yeah, she’s just a great person to be around.
“She’s, like the mother of a group, the person everyone turns to, and everyone goes to and that you can rely on. So, she’s just an all-around great person to be honest.”
Impetus’Jonathan Tay was in Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson‘s media conference for us yesterday. He reviews the squad selections and aims for the tough two games ahead(25/6/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson in the media conference yesterday. Photo: Football Australia.
“We need answers.”
That was the recurring catch-cry from Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson, speaking ahead of Australia’s friendly against the almighty Spain in Huelva.
“It’s actually been really good. One of those camps you want to get a lot of answers: you want to look at different tactics, different players. It’s been a very hectic preparation, with a lot of new players,” he summarised at his pre-match press conference.
Whilst the Swede’s focus has been fixed more so on his own squad’s training camp and process, he understands the daunting task of facing La Roja. Spain come into Saturday’s game gearing up for European Championships and are just over two weeks out from their first group game against Finland.
“Someone asked me, why are you playing such a tough opponent when you don’t have all your best players available. Well, it’s a great opportunity to actually play one of the best teams in the world, with [this] roster to get answers.”
“I always expect us to step up on the field and give it 100, that’s the Aussie mentality. So far a lot of players have been really good in training and showed me that they want to be a part of the competition for the World Cup 2023. But at the same time, they’ve got to be humble and understand that it’s a big game and a big opponent, both Spain and Portugal.”
Princess Ibini-Isei spoke from camp earlier in the week about wanting to be a fast tempo, high pressing Matildas team. And whilst Gustavsson agreed, he was more measured in his approach, particularly against a side boasting nine players from Champions League-winning FC Barcelona.
“We never want to change who we are; we want to be that team who’s on the front foot, to be aggressive and physical. But at the same time, you need to be able to manage games. We need to understand that there’s going to be parts of this game where our pressing is not going to be at the level to be able to steal the ball from them – their passing is just amazing.
“[We] need to be humble enough to say “Okay, we might not be able to choose whether we have the ball or not, but maybe we can control where they have the ball”. I think that’s a major part of this game plan for us: can we take that step when we can’t press, can we still control the game without the ball?”
With plenty of stand-out performers both locally in Australia and overseas, Gustavsson has the task of answering the question: who can step up and prove to be a legitimate candidate for the Matildas squad going forward, and beyond that, the home World Cup next year?
“I’m curious to see where we sit,” he continued. “We need to have a little bit of a different perspective going into this game in that sense. It’s not just about winning a game. It might be losing a game, but winning a player; meaning if we can find even just one more player in the depth, in the roster going into World Cup ‘23, it’s worth every minute in this camp.
“The number one thing is: can they bring the qualities that they have in the local leagues to the international level. Not just playing international football, but top international football.
Above: Tony Gustavsson in yesterday’s media conference – where he outlined that losing a match but gaining a new player for the World Cup squad was a result from tomorrow. Photo: Football Australia.
“How quick the decision-making is, physically how fast can they run, how quickly can they pass the ball, the first touch, adjust to the tempo. When you talk to players coming into this environment and ask them what is the difference, they say, “I don’t have time, there’s no time”, that’s the biggest step.
“So that’s the analysis as a coach; how quickly can they adjust to the higher tempo when everything is quicker and faster.”
With a number of his core rested, including captain Sam Kerr, there are plenty of opportunities available across the two fixtures; 14 of the 24-player squad have less than 10 caps, with six potential debutantes on board.
An area where the Australia head coach continues to search for answers is the midfield, particularly in the number six or holding midfield position, where there has been a lot of experimentation throughout Gustavsson’s tenure, with mixed results.
“We have a lot of different players with different playing styles who could play in that Number Six role. We were really convinced going into the Asian Cup that we wanted to look at ‘Mini’ (Katrina Gorry) in that midfield role; unfortunately she couldn’t [compete in] the Asian Cup for us.
“But then when she came in against New Zealand, Mini, who normally plays as a 10, an attacking midfielder, I had a conversation with her. I said I really want to look at you as a six, to be that playmaker, a little bit like (Andrea) Pirlo, if I could compare to someone, that playmaking number six, and I think we all saw how phenomenal she was in that role.
“But I also want to be clear: ‘Mini’ can also be used as an attacking midfielder; she has different tools as well where she can unlock a team and she can link the forwards in the way that few players can.
“So I think right now, in this situation where I want to give players a fair chance, we’ve got some new recruits into this camp, and a few of them are looking sharp in training as well, we’ll see where we end up with that and where their form is come the World Cup.
“I actually honestly think it’s going to be one of the toughest spots to break into this roster because we have tons of really good midfielders, and that’s going to be a tough decision moving forward.”
Three newcomers are also vying for spots across the middle of the pitch, Jacynta Galabadaarachchi, Mackenzie Hawkesby, and Taylor Ray. Gustavsson had positive words of feedback for all of them, on the cusp of their possible first international caps.
“With ‘Hawkes’ (Hawkesby) she’s a box-to-box player who always gives 100. Her running game and her commitment, her willing attitude and her work rate – in that top tempo team that we are, we need players to drive up and down the field, to press, track back and she has those attributes.”
“[Ray] is what we call a true number 6. She’s very good in her positioning, at reading the game. She also connects players with her passing game.
“I’m impressed by how much she scans (the field), which I always look for when I’m scouting players. I see how many times she turns her head, scanning for information; she does that consistently throughout any game. Especially at a young age, she plays very maturely.”
Passing Statistics vs All Midfielders (A-League Women 21/22, minimum 800 min) [data: Wyscout]
“When it comes to “Gala” (Galabadaarachchi), she’s a completely different player; her one-v-one is unique, her quickness on the ball, her first touch.
“She’s very brave on the ball, even in this camp and this environment, she’s asking for the ball all the time, and I love that confidence that she wants the ball on her feet to take players on.”
What a lovely ball through from Jacynta Galabadaarachchi for Charlie Wellings to put Celtic ahead here. Right into Wellings’ path off the outside of her boot. Beautiful.
The Matildas head coach tempered expectations though, reiterating that playing time would have to be earned, even with the number of key players who are missing.
“I’ve said it before, we also need to be mindful of not just throwing out caps for the sake of throwing out caps, they need to be deserved. It’s one thing to be selected to be in this environment, and another thing to earn a cap. So we need to be mindful of looking at who actually earns that.”
He didn’t guarantee it would happen tomorrow, but asked what he thinks has gotten Williams to this point, Gustavsson beamed, “She has all the ingredients needed to be a true professional footballer. Not just the football qualities, but its more about “Lyds” as a person.
“How she handles adversity on the field, how she makes people around her better. It’s not just about making saves when the shot comes. You see how much she means to the other players.
“For example, seeing how well she integrates the new players getting used to camp, welcomes them, prepares them. She’s an amazing ambassador for this team, and for the game. It’s a privilege as a coach to be celebrating her 100th cap.
“[The goalkeepers] are doing such a phenomenal job supporting each other. It’s a tough competition right now; its not a clear 1, 2, 3 goalkeeper situation – that spot is up for grabs – and they’re all pushing each other every single day in training.
“I know ‘Macca’ (Mackenzie Arnold) and Teagan (Micah) are looking forward to celebrating her getting her 100th because that’s the support we have in this team.
“Whether that’s going to be this weekend, or Tuesday, or maybe an upcoming camp, we’ll see.” he deadpanned, with hopefully more answers coming Saturday.
Isabella Wallhead and Tijan McKenna are two of the brightest teenage stars from Western Australian (WA) football. To extend their experience ahead of another season at Perth Glory in the A-League Women, they have travelled across to play NPLW football in Victoria with Heidelberg United. Impetus’ Kieran Yap spoke to both Isabella and Tijan abouttheir experiences in moving across the country to play. (23/6/22).
Above: Isabella Wallhead in action for Heidelberg United this season. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
After impressive starts to their A-League Women’s careers, some of Perth Glory’s best rising stars needed a new environment to develop their football. Due to efforts between the players, their managers, clubs, and new teammates, they have found that in Victoria’s NPLW.
In a boost for the state competition, midfielder Tijan McKenna (17) and defender Isabella Wallhead (19) joined Heidelberg United. It has been a win-win for the club and two of the country’s most versatile and promising young players.
Heidelberg have enjoyed a strong start to the season. With just over half the games played, they had only lost four games, each of those coming by a single goal. McKenna and Wallhead have joined a side aiming for silverware and have been regular starters since arriving in Victoria.
For Wallhead, changing clubs, states, and leagues was a step she felt would help her in the long term.
“I had a few discussions with Dean (Georgio) my manager, about how we felt I needed to get out of my comfort zone in Perth and move somewhere where I don’t particularly know many people,” she told Impetus.
“I felt that I would grow both as a player and as a person with the move and I can already see that coming into effect. It’s not easy moving away from my family but it was a move that was needed to help me best prepare for future opportunities.”
Living away from the comforts and securities of home has not been without challenges. Wallhead says that although she misses family and friends, she has embraced this step.
“Some of the better aspects of living away from home is becoming more responsible, independent and accountable with my actions and decisions. Another positive is becoming part of an amazing community of people and players at Heidelberg. I’m really enjoying Melbourne. I’ve been really lucky with my move.
Above: Isabella Wallhead in possession for Heidelberg United. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
“I’ve been treated so well by Heidelberg, and my host family is absolutely amazing. I wasn’t expecting it to be this cold though,” she laughs.
She may have struggled with Victoria’s eclectic weather, but on the field, she has taken no time to find her groove. Wallhead has appeared in every game of the season so far, starting in each round except the first. Her ability and performances have made her a key part of Johno Clemente’s side as they challenge for multiple trophies.
“Mindset is a massive thing,” she says of her ability to adapt quickly to new surroundings. “I went into the NPL Victoria season quite nervous. However, I told myself I have nothing to lose and to just play my style of football to the best of my ability.
“I also had the support of Heidelberg with their warm welcome and I was able to slot in quite easily. My teammates are honestly amazing. The camaraderie is truly special and I believe we will do very well this season.”
That camaraderie and quality at ‘The Bergers’ was on full display in an epic Nike FC Cup clash against Preston. One of the best games of the season saw Heidelberg win 6-3 in extra time in a see-sawing game that had everything including a dramatically timed power failure.
Wallhead was in the thick of the action in a game that lacked nothing, with a crucial early clearance. It was her first extra-time win as a senior footballer and one of her on-field highlights since moving to Melbourne.
“What a game to be part of,” she reflects. “The atmosphere was absolutely hectic! So many people came down to watch the rivalry game. There was singing, chanting, and the Heidelberg junior girls came down and made signs and banners.
“I still need to learn the words to the Heidelberg chant, but everyone coming on the field and huddling around each after the massive 6-3 extra-time win was crazy, it was something I’d never experienced.”
Above: Isabella Wallhead in action for Perth Glory against Melbourne City’s Rhali Dobson during the 2020/21 season. Photo: Tom McCarthy.
Wallhead’s form has been attracting the right kinds of attention. In May, she was selected for the Young Matildas training camp. It served as vindication for a courageous decision to come to Victoria this season, and reward for the ability she has shown.
“It was a bit of a surprise,” she says of the call-up. “I haven’t been to a camp since the start of 2021 so to be selected for a camp after moving to Melbourne was a big pat on the back for the hard work I’ve put in trying to play my best football and to be seen.”
Not everything in Melbourne has been unfamiliar to the rising star of the NPLW. She is joined at Heidelberg United by fellow Perth Glory prodigy Tijan McKenna.
The midfielder has made an instant impression with a goal against FV Emerging and started three of her first four games at the club. For Wallhead, the prospect of linking up with her Glory teammate was an exciting one.
“When I found out Tijan McKenna was transferring to Heidelberg from South Melbourne I was beyond keen to play with her again. I think it’s only fitting to be sharing the pitch with her as we’ve been on such a big journey together already. So why not continue it as we navigate this opportunity together in Melbourne?”
McKenna is another of Perth Glory’s fast-rising stars. She made her A-League Women debut in the 2020/21 season as a 16-year-old. That season was a tough one for The Glory in terms of results, but players like Wallhead and McKenna grasped the opportunity and built reputations as players to watch.
The reality of playing professional football while completing High School has not been easy. However, McKenna believes it has helped her development on and off the field. She is completing Year 12 online during the season, and embracing that challenge.
“Being in school and playing for Glory has been eventful,” she says. “It’s enjoyable having all my friends support at school and at games. It can get a bit tough juggling training and games whilst still staying on top of my school work.
Above: Tijan McKenna in possession for Heidelberg United against South Melbourne this season in the NPLW Victoria. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
“Throughout the years of State teams, Junior Matildas, and Glory I’ve learnt how to manage both lifestyles and still find time for myself, which I think is a very important thing to do.
“Finding time for myself has kept me mentally healthy as it’s good to take time to enjoy hanging out with friends and resting my body. “I moved over here for the football, knowing it was going to be better for me. I knew moving away from home was always going to be hard but it’s something that had to be done in order for me to develop and grow in stature.
“I’ve met some incredible loving people since my move which has already made me feel like I’m at home. Definitely doing my own washing was a hard one but I know what I’m doing now!”
Like her older sister, Melbourne City midfielder Leticia, Tijan McKenna has long been touted as a potential star of the game. As a Junior Matilda, she was part of the group that travelled to Vanuatu to represent Australia.
“Having the opportunity to have been a part of the Junior Matildas is something I’ll forever be grateful for,” she says of the experience. “Being surrounded by some of the best players in our country was truly incredible in itself, I built new lifelong friendships and made some unforgettable memories along the way.
“Looking back on it, being away with the national team taught me so much in such a short time. I learnt new life skills and stepped out of my comfort zone. Being in different countries, trying new foods, acclimatising to weather changes and so much more. It was a life lesson and an amazing experience.
“Whilst being a part of the Junior Matildas, as a player I developed and became a strong-minded individual on and off the pitch. Dealing with missing out on playing or not as much game time really opened my eyes.
“I became more determined and pushed myself. I learnt that you always need to be 100% dedicated to any task you’re given whether you like it or not. You’ll only make it if you put your heart and soul into it, but you just have to make sure you enjoy every part along the way.”
Above: Alert, and looking to create – Tijan McKenna in a familiar pose to those who have seen her develop in Western Australia. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
McKenna is a creative, versatile midfielder with an eye for goal. Her composure and ball control has allowed her to compete in the A-League Women and NPLW against much more experienced players.
She was aware that Perth Glory required their players to be in high-intensity environments during the off-season. As one of Victoria’s powerhouse clubs, Heidelberg was a good destination. Even so, when the decision was made, it was still somewhat unexpected.
“When I first got the call from Dean (Georgio, agent), it came as a big surprise as it wasn’t something I had in mind.
“However the thought process was about moving to a state where football was of higher value than the WA NPL and I just fell in love with the idea of moving across and playing football. Everything happened really quickly almost at breakneck speed.
“One minute I’m discussing the idea then the next, I’m packing my bags and hopping on a plane for my journey. There is something exciting about not knowing what’s going to happen next, and this opportunity fits every aspect of that. I was looking for a new chapter and this couldn’t have come at a better time.”
It was a similarly unanticipated turn of events for Wallhead. She says that playing outside of WA had always been in the back of her mind, but that she had not expected to do it at this age.
“After returning from the Perth Glory hub in Sydney I received a call from Dean saying he had an opportunity in Melbourne for me that he thought would be good for my football and for me personally to grow in stature.
“The offer was too good to pass so about a week and a half after the call I packed my things and moved over.
Above: Tijan McKenna gets away for Perth Glory against Adelaide United in 2020/21. Photo: Tom McCarthy.
“I believe it was a good decision to come and play in the Victorian NPL, there are so many talented players, A-League players, and ex-A-League players that I’m constantly learning from. I believe it’s good preparation for the upcoming A-League Women season getting to play against some top players.”
Victoria’s NPLW is filled with players on the cusp of or returning from the A-League Women. In addition to Wallhead and McKenna, Perth Glory has three other stars across the league. Sofia Sakalis, Alana Jancevski, and Claudia Mihocic are with Box Hill United, Bulleen Lions FC, and South Melbourne respectively.
“Playing against (A-League) teammates is always enjoyable, win, lose or draw as we’re all good mates,” says McKenna. “I love the fact that we bring out our competitive best in each other because to some degree we are all competing for positions at Glory.”
It is not a completely unfamiliar feeling for McKenna. Her older sister Leticia has spent the entirety of Tijan’s senior Perth Glory career at other clubs. “It’s defiantly way more fun playing against Leticia,” she laughs. “It brings out a sister rivalry and fires me up more wanting to beat her. I find it entertaining watching my parents try to support both of us without favouring one.”
Along with that naturally competitive nature, Tijan considers Leticia to be one of her role models. She says she has always looked up to her as a footballer and a person.
“She’s been my inspiration. She’s dealt with a lot of setbacks in her career, but she’s come out on top every time. She’s creative and incredibly hardworking. From when we were young, we’ve helped each other grow as people and as players and I wouldn’t change that for the world.”
Above: Tijan McKenna looks to get away for Heidelberg United against South Melbourne in the NPLW Victoria this season. Photo: Gold Leaf Creative.
Isabella Wallhead is now an established A-League player and a star at Heidelberg United. Her career trajectory is of no surprise to those who have watched her at Glory where she has learned from some of the best players in Australia.
“I’ve always looked up to Sam Kerr and I was lucky enough to train with her in the 2018/19 A-League season. I learnt a lot that season getting to mark the best female footballer in the world, definitely improved me as a player and I’m so grateful I got that opportunity.
“Another player I look up to greatly is Tash Rigby. I’m beyond privileged to have her as my captain, she brings so much energy and enthusiasm to the squad both on and off the pitch. Her work ethic on the pitch is admirable, she never stops and gives absolutely everything 100%.”
Tijan McKenna and Isabella Wallhead are both part of the future of Australian football. They have both taken the step to move out of their comfort zone to help reach their potential as players and people. With team success a strong possibility and individual improvement already apparent, the move east has been rewarding on and off-field.
“I’m loving Melbourne so far and everything it has to bring,” says McKenna. “The standard of football is great, meeting new people and trying new things has been wonderful. I also am grateful to my host family who really put a lot of time into making me feel comfortable whilst in Melbourne.”
Like her fellow traveller, she has but one complaint. “The only thing that is holding Melbourne back from being perfect is the freezing weather, I can never get used to it.”
Isabella Wallhead and Tijan Mckenna might joke about feeling the freeze in Victoria, but on the field, they have started the season on fire. Both have committed their A-League future to Perth Glory, but they are also making a significant impact at Heidelberg United.
Impetus’ Kieran Yapwas in today’s Australia media conference for us and heard Lydia Williams reflect on her time with the national team ahead of her hundredth cap, and the benefits of playing in Europe(23/6/22).
Above: Lydia Williams in action for Australia. Photo: Football Australia.
As her 100th cap approaches, Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams is excited for the future and appreciative of a past filled with highlights.
She is expected to reach the milestone in the upcoming fixtures against Spain and Portugal. Goalkeeper is perhaps the most individual position on the field. But when asked about her journey she spoke glowingly about her long-term teammates and the growth of the game itself.
“To be honest I wouldn’t have dreamt that I would come this far,” Williams told the media. It’s just an honour and a privilege.
“I think I’ve been around for everyone’s first cap so that’s kind of awesome to me seeing how everyone’s developed. Seeing Australian football develop from not a whole lot of press to now, (where) we have the opportunity to host a World Cup and being a part of that whole process. For me, that was really special and definitely a feeling you could ever replicate.”
Williams has been in the national setup since 2007, but made the starting position her own at the 2015 World Cup. It was the tournament that Australia achieved their best-ever finish. The run to the quarter-finals is still one of her fondest memories. Particularly the thrilling, tense, and skilful win over Brazil in the round of 16.
“It was our best (finishing) position,” reflects Williams, who made some crucial saves in the 1-0 victory. “It was just a really good game, no one really believed in us. There were only a few hundred Aussies there supporting us. Doing that in the style that we did off that preparation was really special.”
Williams first entered the Matildas setup at the age of 15. She is now one of the most experienced players in the squad for these friendly matches and has enjoyed seeing the new faces adapt to the national team.
“They’re getting exposed to what playing for the Matildas is like. We definitely need more people coming through. It’s exciting to see what we’ve produced in training.”
In particular, she had praise for those players who had become national team players relatively recently but were taking on more responsibility in camp. “Seeing them step up has been really nice. They’ve come into camp over the last year or so and kind of been a regular, right now at this camp they’re in a senior role.
Above: Lydia Williams training with the Matildas this week. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“It’s nice to see them step up. This is actually an opportunity for them to prove themselves and make sure they’re amongst this squad always.”
Australia goes into these matches in a different position than Spain or Portugal. While their opponents are fine-tuning before a major international tournament. Tony Gustavsson’s Matildas are exploring squad depth and tactical possibilities.
Much of the Matildas squad has been on a post-season break or playing domestically in the state competitions.
“It’s a good preparation for us,” says Williams. “Let’s be honest and real, it’s a team that is going into a major tournament versus a team that’s coming off a break. So right now, it’s going to be a good indication of seeing how these (European) teams are lining up”
These matches are tactically important for Australia’s preparations. European nations remain a challenge for Australia. After two years with Arsenal, Williams sees the difference more games can make to players.
“The good thing is we’re getting exposed to the stresses of European football. Playing in FA Cups, Conti Cups, Champions League, then the league. You’re playing upwards of 40-50 games a year, not to mention your international team. Getting that exposure is what the rest of the world doing so we need to catch up.”
The schedule may be intense, but there is the benefit of an off-season, something many senior Matildas have never experienced as they rotated from one league to the next. The result is, that many of the familiar faces are recuperating or recovering from small injuries or fatigue.
Williams sees this as an opportunity for new players to make an impact, and for the squad to see what areas they need to improve on. She characterizes these games as an “educational tool,” although anybody who has watched her play will know she will be eager to win once she crosses the white line.
“I’ve had a break which most of us have. It’s just getting back into it,” she says about returning from a break. Being back with the team again. This is my favourite team to play for so I’m just really excited to be back here.”
In the latest of our end of season catch up features with Impetus’ sponsored players andpartner clubs, Ted McCarter from Bure Valley Youth in Norfolk filled Ben Gilby in on how their first full season of football in two years has gone. have just ended their first full season in football for a couple of years due to the pandemic(23/6/22).
The last time we heard from Bure Valley, their young players were telling us all about the incredible experience that they had at the Arnold Clark Cup match between England and Spain at Carrow Road.
Above: Bure Valley’s U8 Pumas with a trophy won this season. Photo supplied by: Ted McCarter.
“We had a great time watching The Lionesses,” smiled Ted. “Girls aged from seven to 15 attended and really enjoyed it especially seeing local hero Lauren Hemp in action. This has inspired the girls to watch the Lionesses regularly on TV as well as the FAWSL. We’re now really excited about this summer’s Euros.”
However, the exciting times for the club have certainly gone well beyond that one afternoon.
“It’s been a great season,” Ted smiled. “Player numbers have continued to rise at a very good rate. We added a new U7 boys team and two new girls teams at U8 and U9. We have new teams ready to go for the 2022/23 season. We’re hoping the Women’s Euros inspires some new girls to give football a go.”
Above: This season’s Bure Valley U10 Kittens team. Photosupplied by: Ted McCarter.
The pandemic hit every grassroots club hard, and Bure Valley were no exception. “The challenges remaining from the pandemic are mainly financial. Our coffee shop has remained closed this season but with new confidence and Covid restrictions over, we’re hoping next season will see it fully operational. We’ve been very lucky attracting new sponsors to finance kit. Following Brexit, prices have risen sharply but we’ve managed to ride that storm.”
Whilst there have been challenges, there have been a large number of major successes for the club’s various teams during the season, as Ted explained.
“Our brand new U8s girls reached the Cup Final in their first season losing out to a very good Waveney side. Our U12s girls won the U12 B League to secure promotion, and our U13 Girls finished runners up in a very tough league.
“The rest of our teams all enjoyed plenty of matches, the first time in two years that full seasons were completed. All in all, it was a very successful season.”
Bure Valley has a successful relationship with tier five Eastern Regional Women’s Football League Premier side Wroxham which has now provided a pathway for Bure Valley youngsters to go on and potentially play senior football with the Yachtswomen. It is a partnership that is looking to get stronger for the next campaign.
“Lots of our families have enjoyed going to watch Wroxham Women play at Trafford Park,” said Ted. We’re now looking at a closer relationship as our players come to an end of youth football and look to progress to adult football. Announcements are due over the coming weeks.”
Above: Another trophy haul for Bure Valley – this time their U13 Panthers team. Photosupplied by: Ted McCarter.
Whilst the future is looking rosy at Bure Valley, Ted is well aware that to grow further, there are challenges that need to be overcome, some of which are out of the club’s own control.
“We need more volunteers to get involved. We also need other clubs in the county to take the plunge and add new teams, especially at U7 and u8 girls. We’re improving our facilities all the time but there is still loads to do. Our aim is to create a safe, inclusive, fun environment for everyone to enjoy the beautiful game, so far it’s gone very well but we must continue to be the club that girls, in particular, want to join.
“Our main focus is continued growth. Our fantastic Mini Kickerz for kids aged three to six years of age is very successful with a clear pathway provided into League football. If new players continue to come to us we must be doing something right!”
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