Above: Inverness Caledonian Thistle, one of the clubs in the SWF Championship for next season. Photo: P&J Sport.
Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) has unveiled the structure of its top leagues for the 2022/23 season.
With the highest two leagues in the country, the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) One and Two being administered by the Scottish Professional Football League from next season, SWF’s top tier will become the Championship, a competitive national league made up of eight teams, the membership of which is determined by specific criteria, such as commitments to youth pathways and player wellbeing. Under that, a national League One will be made up of 14 teams.
There will be no relegation from the Championship after the first season, with two teams who have met minimum requirements promoted from League One to create a Championship League of ten criteria-compliant teams.
The new criteria will require clubs to provide sanitary products at games and work to support the well-being of players. A meeting of the new league structure will take place on the 4th July.
Above: Aileen Campbell, Scottish Women Football CEO, Photo: Colin Poultney/Scottish Women’s Football.
Commenting, Scottish Women’s Football CEO Aileen Campbell said: “Women’s football in Scotland is growing and reaching every part of the country.
“Our new Championship will represent an exciting and competitive contest among eight teams from right across Scotland, culminating in a prestigious trophy in its own right. I’m delighted that participating clubs have shown a commitment to the wellbeing of their players – things like ensuring sanitary products are available at training facilities – and providing player pathways, to give girls opportunities to play at a grassroots level.
“League One will also be a fiercely competitive league, with the prize of two places in the Championship up for grabs. As professionalism grows at the top of the game we need to ensure a route is there for every woman in the country to have the opportunity to participate and reach the top, and I’m confident the new structure will showcase the best our clubs have to offer.”
Above: Grampian Ladies – members of the new SWF League One.
The new SWF Championship participating clubs: Ayr United, Dryburgh Athletic Women, Hutchison Vale WFC, Inverness Caledonian Thistle WFC, Livingston WFC, Morton FC Women, Rossvale FC Women and Renfrew Ladies FC
The new SWF League One participating clubs: Airdrie Ladies FC, Bishopton FC Ladies, BSC Glasgow Women, Buchan Ladies FC, Dundee City West WFC, Edinburgh Caledonia FC, Edinburgh City Women, Falkirk FC Women, Giffnock SC, Grampian Ladies FC, Gleniffer Thistle Ladies, St Mirren Women, Stenhousemuir Women FC, and Westdyke Ladies FC.
The ParaMatildas World Cup runner-up speaks to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about thechallenges that she faced to adapt after two life-changing strokes, and how she overcame them to record some of the greatest achievements in Australian female Para Football(3/6/22).
Above: Nicole Christodoulou (2) in action for the ParaMatildas against Spain in the World Cup last month. Photo: Marianna Galanopoulos/Football Australia.
“I had two strokes. Before that, I used to play a lot of football for my school and clubs as well as indoor soccer. When I had my stroke, the only thing going through my mind was ‘Would I play again?’
Nicole Christodoulou, ParaMatildas World Cup Silver Medallist.
ParaMatildas star Nicole Christodoulou’s path to a World Cup runners-up medal is incredible. Two strokes, needing to learn to use her limbs again, and then redevelop her footballing skills which saw her progress to the highest possible level of the sport.
“I had paralysis on the left side of my body and that left me asking questions that no one had the answers to. After my stroke, my limbs started functioning differently. I was born and raised able-bodied. I was strong, I was fast, and agile. To come back not having any of these, having to go back to the beginning and train myself to move my limbs, it was tough.”
Above: Name on the back of the national team shirt – Nicole living her dream at the World Cup. Photo: Marianna Galanopoulos/Football Australia.
Her love of football never diminished and she was determined to get back into the sport again. “I looked up and found an all-abilities team and I played with them. I remember the first game I played four years ago. I’d run a few strides and my leg would get very heavy and I couldn’t run anymore. I wasn’t as agile and as co-ordinated as I used to be, and that was a very big challenge mentally for me as well as physically.”
Yet despite these significant challenges, Christodoulou wanted to aim high and go as far as she could as a Parafootballer, as she explained.
“I wondered if I would qualify to play in the Paralympics, so I looked up and found the Pararoos (men’s national team). I emailed their coach and he replied asking me if I wanted to attend one of the ‘Come and Try Days’ and I did. That was back in 2018. Now in 2022, I am a ParaMatilda.”
Her path to the national team started in her home state of New South Wales where Christodoulou recorded a landmark achievement.
“There is a New South Wales Paralympic football team, and I was the first female to be invited to train with the males, and ever since then, more females have started to get involved. In 2019, I participated in the National Championships where I represented the ACT (Australian Capital Territory). I even scored a goal!”
Above: Nicole sharing her joy with ParaMatildas teammate Tilda Mason. Photo: Marianna Galanopoulos/Football Australia.
Fast forward to this year, and the announcement that Australia would have a ParaMatildas team at last. Nicole outlines how the whole process unfolded.
“So, I received an email saying that there was going to be a national selection camp for the ParaMatildas squad at the AIS (Australian Institute of Sport) in Canberra. We had three days there and on the Sunday, the last day, just before we left, the coaches took us out one-by-one and told us whether we were selected and I was the first one to be told that I was selected to go to the World Cup. “I was ecstatic! So ecstatic that I fell off my chair!”
The fortnight in Spain was one that will live in Christodoulou’s memory forever. The sheer pride in what she and her teammates achieved in Spain just leaps off the page.
“The fact that we are the first squad, the first ParaMatildas to represent our country in a World Cup, there are no words to describe how thankful I am that this is happening in my lifetime and that I got to be a part in it. I’ve always said that I want to leave something behind.
Now my name is going to be in the history books, and no one can take that away from me. To have scored a couple of goals in the World Cup – my name is going to be there forever. It’s a dream that many people have but not many get to live.
Nicole Christodoulou, ParaMatildas World Cup Silver Medallist.
“On and off the pitch, we worked hard to be the very best players that we can be. We went into the World Cup only having been a team for two months and only having had two camps together and we finished second in the whole world. If we had had more time together before, I think we would have dominated every single other nation in that tournament.”
Above: Nicole (2) in action against the USA at the World Cup. Photo: Marianna Galanopoulos/Football Australia.
One of the main challenges of the tournament was the scheduling. The competition was effectively played over a week. Australia played five matches in seven days, which included a spell of three games in successive days. Such a program would be tough for an able-bodied player, but for athletes with physical and neurological disabilities, it was an immensely challenging time.
“It’s been physically and emotionally tough because we put a lot of pressure on our own shoulders to perform to the best that we could for our country. There was lots of training, recovery, and preparing to be the best we could be,” said Christodoulou.
“It was tricky playing on consecutive days, particularly when the weather was starting to get warm because as athletes you need time for your body to rest and recover. When you don’t have that, it exhausts you, physically especially. On top of that, we have physical disabilities, neurological difficulties in our limbs too. We fatigue pretty quickly compared to able-bodied players. Rest for us is just as important as training, so it was tough, but we got through it and came second.”
With the World Cup over, Nicole is not resting on her laurels. If anything she is stepping it up
“I’m training weekly now and I’m going to increase that to also attending a gym and going for runs to make sure I am physically fit for the next tournament. We don’t know when our next games are yet, but I’m preparing myself for when that comes.”
Above: Striding confidently into the future – ParaMatildas star Nicole Christodoulou. Photo: Marianna Galanopoulos/Football Australia.
Christodoulou has learned much from her challenges, and ended our conversation with an observation that everyone should take note of.
“What has inspired me is going from being paralysed to be back playing football. I’ve had many therapy sessions, one of them being neuro-psychologists, they have taught us lots of things that go on in our brains. They showed us a video of what happens in the brain when a new neural connection is made and that for me was a moment that made me realise that anything can happen. I might be paralysed, but I can form those new neural connections and that is what kept me going.
“The more we practice something, the better we get at something. When you see a new neural connection in the brain, two lines join up, and the more you practice that new skill, the bigger and stronger the connection gets, which means the better you get at your skill. That was a very big motivator for me.”
This is the latest in Impetus‘ series of interviews with the ParaMatildas. The others in the series can be viewed by clicking on these links:
Thetford Town manager David Skipp speaks to Darrell Allen about the team’s first season in the tier seven Norfolk Women and Girls Football League (NWGFL) Division One(3/6/22).
Above: David Skipp (blue baseball cap) speaks to his Thetford Town squad this season. Photo: Richard Brown.
Thetford Town have had a fantastic first season in the tier seven Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One, finishing in fourth place.
Manager David Skipp outlined to me the clubs’ thoughts pre-season as they approached their maiden Division One adventure.
“Due to a restructure of the Norfolk Women and Girls Leagues, the team was placed into Division One for the first time. There was apprehension around the squad not knowing how they would gel going into the new season or if indeed we had the quality to compete at a higher level as we were entering into the unknown.
“The apprehension was short-lived as we embarked on a pre-season programme against higher league opposition which helped our preparations.”
Thetford Town got the season off to a flyer winning their opening three games which included a double over Long Stratton and success over North Walsham. David reflected on those opening encounters.
Above: Thetford Town boss David Skipp (in baseball cap) alongside assistant coach Stuart Terry on the touchline. Photo: Richard Brown.
“The season got off to a flyer with the ladies winning their first three games and going to the Christmas break unbeaten, returning after the festive break we had a few key players pick up injuries, and at one point the team had no recognised defenders.
“This said, the group plugged away to produce battling performances, but results didn’t go our way. Gaps between games due to weather postponements helped with the recuperation of some of the players and slowly one or two began to return for the run-in.”
The team started to put a little run together and fought hard to secure themselves fourth spot at the end of the campaign to the credit to the whole squad of which every player played a part.
David emphasised his pride in the staff he has brought in this season as well as the sponsors and people who have supported the club to ensure the season was a success.
“Off the pitch, the team were bolstered by Amber Browne coming into a coaching role and this helped the ladies gain structure to their play. With Amber on board, the team are in good hands moving forward.
“Darrell, you obviously also came in to bolster our media coverage including introducing us to Impetus, and what a fantastic difference this has made, the profile of the club has risen and has helped us when injuries hit.
Above: David Skipp is proud of his squad’s achievements in their first season in tier seven. Photo: Richard Brown.
We were able to dual sign players. I would like to thank King’s Lynn Town, Wroxham, and Norwich City for all their help. Not forgetting my assistant manager Stuart Terry who works tirelessly behind the scenes attracting sponsors raising the profile of the club in the community and the main role being my right-hand man.”
“Talking of sponsors, I would like to thank our kit sponsors Beez Leisure along with Silver Fern Ceremonies and Chilterns for their continued support along with the many tracksuit sponsors who individually sponsored a player. Your support goes a long way in helping the team run whilst giving our players an identity so thank you from all of us at Thetford.”
The biggest part of the football club is of course the players, and David acknowledged his debt to them.
“My biggest thank you goes to all the players that have pulled on the Thetford shirt and given 100% commitment. Without them, there is no team, and they should all be proud of what they have achieved as a squad.
“From the first training session to the last game, I cannot fault anyone one of them, and to finish fourth is a testament to how far they have come not only as a team but as individuals. The whole squad has been fantastic, we’ve had laughs, we’ve had squabbles, but we have always stuck together and that is what has made it an honour to coach them this season.
“As for next season watch this space! Who knows what we could achieve but our players have set a marker and the hard work begins again during preseason which begins on 20th June.
“My thoughts in September 2021 were ‘let’s stay in the league and build on that’, my thoughts at the end in May 2022 were ‘what a squad’ and to finish fourth is what is meant as teamwork.”
Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the 22nd and final round of D1 Arkemawhere he was at the Groupama Training Centre for us to watch Olympique Lyonnais lift the title(3/6/22).
Above: Olympique Lyonnais celebrate their fifteenth D1 title success. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Olympique Lyonnais lifted the D1 championship trophy for the fifteenth time after their 4-0 win at home against Issy. There were 2,000 fans gathered at the Olympique Lyonnais Groupama Training Center for this last game of the season. With Issy struggling at the bottom of the table, and relegated as a result of this defeat, it was no surprise that Lyon dominated proceedings (72% possession) even with a few changes in the team which saw youngsters Alice Sombath and Inès Benyahia start, and a few key players not even on the bench in Christiane Endler, Selma Bacha, and Ada Hegerberg. The great performance of Cosette Morché, Issy’s goalkeeper, needs to be noted. Without her, Lyon would have scored many more goals. The future for the club looks exceptionally bright – at halftime, the U19 Olympique Lyonnais team presented their own championship title to the fans. Goals for Lyon from: Eugénie Le Sommer (30), Melvine Malard (52), Daniëlle Van De Donk (82), Wendie Renard (90+1).
Above: Lyons U19 squad celebrate their own championship-winning season. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Fleury won 3-0 away from home against Guingamp. In a game slightly edged by Guingamp (57% possession), Fleury had more opportunities (18 shots against seven) and was more efficient. To be noted was the return in goal of Katriina Talaslahti for Fleury ahead of her potential appearance in the Euros for Finland. Goals for Fleury from: Rosemonde Kouassi (25, 83), Dominika Grabowska (90+2).
Reims ended their campaign with a superb 1-0 win at home against Paris Saint-Germain. In a game dominated by the visitors, who chalked up 64% possession, Reims scored at the last minute of the first half. While the home side was playing with their usual team, Paris SG, whose title hopes went up in smoke at the weekend, left out a lot of their key players. Goal for Reims from: Melchie Daëlle Dumornay (45+2).
Above: Olympique Lyonnais’ Australian star Ellie Carpenter was part of the title celebrations last night despite her ACL injury. Here Christiane Endler gives her a helping hand around the pitch. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Bordeaux won 1-0 away from home at Montpellier. In an even game, Bordeaux scored at the last minute to finish their season with a win. Goal for Bordeaux from: Mickaëlla Cardia (90+3).
Paris FC won 2-0 at home against Dijon. Paris FC dominated largely this game (67% possession) and won easily, confirming that they have deserved third-place finish, which ensures them a spot in the qualifying rounds for the UEFA Women’s Champions League next season. Goals for Paris FC from: Mathilde Bourdieu (15), Ouleymata Sarr (49).
Soyaux won 3-0 at Saint-Etienne. Strangely, this game was largely dominated by Saint-Etienne (67% possession), but it was won by Soyaux who were far more efficient with their time on the ball. With this win and the loss of Issy at Lyon, Soyaux saved their place in D1 Arkema for next season. Goals for Soyaux from: Eden Avital (41, 63), Marie-Charlotte Léger (85).
Above: Olympique Lyonnais show off both the D1 title and UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy that they have won this season. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
In this, the first of our post-season catch-ups with Impetus’ sponsored players and partner clubs, Lisa Topping of FA Women’s National League Division One North side Chorley spoke to Ben Gilby(2/6/22).
Above: Lisa Topping (right) in action for Chorley against Newcastle United this season. Photo: John Shirras.
For the second season running, Impetus sponsored Chorley defender Lisa Topping. The Lancashire side has had a superb season in league and cup. Only four league defeats all season and a marvellous run in the FA Cup, defeating higher league opposition along the way. Lisa was overjoyed about so many elements of the season.
“Yes, absolutely, we did have a very successful season. We managed to take valuable points away from big clubs in the league, including an amazing win over Newcastle United towards the end of the season, who were fighting for top spot and we had a really good run in the FA Cup. But above all that, we’ve seen young talent come through the development and reserve teams into the first team squad which is fantastic to see.”
The former Liverpool defender believes that Chorley probably haven’t had the attention they deserved this season as a result of their impressive sequence of results.
Above: Lisa clears the ball for Chorley at FC United of Manchester. Photo: John Shirras.
“We only had four losses in the league this season which is a very low number and demonstrates how hard it is for teams to play us and get an easy result. One thing about Chorley is that teams will always have to work hard to take anything from us.
“Chorley is a real family club and always has been. But, this season the camaraderie between the players and amongst the coaching staff has been a different level. We all fight for each other and we’re all striving for the same goals for the team and the club.
“We want to be there and we want to train hard. In terms of training too – everyone has been improving this year and that’s down to Ben (Gooden, head coach) and the coaching staff’s time, commitment and focus.
“In general, we’re all tight as a team which is fantastic. We’re good at welcoming in new players and having fun at training and on game days. But, our skipper Laura Walker plays a key part, without a doubt. She’s a fantastic captain and a worthy leader of the Chorley team. She checks in with everyone and makes sure we’re all always focused on what we need to achieve.”
In such a fantastic season, there were so many potential high points, but for Lisa, it was their astonishing FA Cup game with higher level Middlesbrough that stands out.
Above: Lisa in possession for Chorley at FC United of Manchester. Photo: John Shirras.
“It was a fantastic moment for the club to beat a team in the higher league and progress to the next round when all the odds were against us. There was a buzz around the club for weeks. It went one way then the other and then to penalties!
“There was one other highlight for me. Scoring the opener against Leeds United away in the league. I don’t score very often but that one was a special goal and on YouTube too! My Grandma passed away a few weeks earlier so I was able to dedicate that one to her.”
Lisa has been happy with her performances this season, highlighting: “I’ve been a part of a team and backline who has not allowed many losses and I’ve managed to get my name on the score sheet a couple of times. As a left back, I always try to be hard to beat regardless and enjoy getting forward into the attack too and I think I’ve done that.”
Whilst the season now at an end, the defender is still focusing on keeping in good shape ahead of the new campaign.
“I’ve signed up for a gym now that the season is over. For me, it’s important to not lose all of the fitness I’ve gained so I’ll go straight into fitness work in preparation for next season.
Above: Chorley FC 2021/22. Photo: John Shirras.
“Personally, it’s a nice time to have full weekends back for a little bit and not have Sundays booked up, so I’ll go on lots of camping trips or walking over the weekends and make use of the spare time.”
Lisa believes that Chorley’s mix of exciting youngsters and experienced players puts them in a really good place to experience more success in 2022/23.
“Next season is going to be exciting and I can’t wait. The blend of players that we have puts us in a really good position to build on this past season and push on further towards our goals.
“The group that we have is extremely special with a good work rate and a tough attitude that makes us hard to break down. Another pre-season together will allow us to fix a few things and come back stronger.”
Above: Pride Park midfielder Bleu Lewis-Wilson challenged by Borrowash Victoria’s Tebble. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
By Doug Outt (2/6/22).
The curtain fell on Pride Park’s 2021/22 season in the tier seven Derbyshire Ladies League Divison One with an away match at Borrowash Victoria, which was ultimately won by the hosts. With runners-up trophies waiting for the team at full time it was already a successful season regardless of the result.
The home side were boosted with a much bigger bench than usual and were in search of a draw or a win to see them leapfrog Sandiacre Town into third place in the league. They started the brightest, opening the scoring within a minute as Nat Eley latched onto an under-hit back pass and made no mistake after rounding Jade Howell.
After that rude wake-up call, the match evened out, with Vics enjoying the lions’ share of possession but not creating many chances. The two best sights of goal were for Pride Park, with Summer Evans seeing a shot blocked at the last moment, and Maja Znamirowska finding the back of the net with a tidy finish, but was called offside – a very tight decision.
It was Borrowash that found the net next though, as a long ball from midfield went straight over the backline and was volleyed home from inside the box by Eley for her second.
It had been a disappointing scoreline at half-time as although Pride Park kept Borrowash at bay, the goals that were conceded were sloppy and life hadn’t been made difficult enough for the home side when they were on the ball.
Above: Summer Evans scored the Pride’s goal and finished the season as top scorer with 15. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
The second half started much brighter, and within five minutes Pride had pulled a goal back. Evans did well to hassle a midfielder and win back possession high up the pitch and lay the ball off to Znamirowska on the right-hand side. She returned the pass and Evans swept the ball home for her 15th goal of the season.
Much like the first half, there were not too many chances for either side, although Borrowash were able to make it 3-1 with 15 minutes to go, Scott – on as a substitute – coolly finishing a one-on-one opportunity.
With nothing to play for in the league, there was an opportunity to experiment a little with players in different positions.
Ultimately it was not the result Pride wanted to round off the season, but everyone involved should be proud of their efforts throughout the year, having secured the highest league finish since 2017/18.
In the latest of our WA on Wednesday series of interviews with NPL WA Women players, Fremantle City captain Mikayla Lyons spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about her footballing journey, leadership experiences, and the challenges that the women’s football scene in Western Australia has to both confront and overcome(1/6/22).
Above: Mikayla Lyons (black kit) in possession for Fremantle City. Photo supplied by: Mikayla Lyons.
Whilst she is an integral part of the Western Australian footballing scene now, Mikayla Lyons made the switch to the sport at a relatively late age.
“I actually grew up playing tennis as my main sport until I was about 12/13,” the Fremantle skipper revealed. “Funnily enough, my journey in football started at the same club that I’m currently playing for, albeit under a different name – East Fremantle Tricolore, who are now Fremantle City.
“Although I enjoyed playing football informally at school and in local five-a-side competitions, it wasn’t until I played my first year at Tricolore in an organised format that I really fell in love with the game.”
Once she caught the football bug, there was no turning back for Lyons who quickly earned representative honours.
“At 13/14, I was lucky enough to get selected into the WA State team and travel over to Coffs Harbour to compete in the National Youth Championships each year following that,” Lyons said. “At 15, I entered the NTC pathway and stayed there for three years before moving into the NPL competition where I’ve been playing ever since.”
Over her period in the game, Lyons has seen many changes and the challenges that come with it as a leader.
“Most of my biggest challenges in football have probably stemmed from large off-field changes – coaching changes and player movement. As a leader, it’s always challenging trying to keep the core of the group together and feeling supported and represented, particularly when there’s a divide in opinions.
“It goes without saying that having a tight-knit squad always helps but ensuring there’s immediate and open communication between all players has been the key so far.”
It is the qualities of a leader that define the Fremantle captain who admits to being: “Extremely passionate and competitive both on and off the field.” In terms of her best qualities as a player, Lyons identified “my acceleration and speed which helps me get into good attacking positions. I’m a lover of short-sharp ball movement, defending from the front, and guilty of doing anything possible to avoid an aerial contest.”
Last season saw Fremantle City finish fourth which saw them qualify for the Top Four Cup. A 2-0 loss to Perth SC in the semi-finals may have been a disappointing way for the season to end, but Lyons sees nothing but positives looking back.
Above: Mikayla Lyons in action for Fremantle City. Photo supplied by: Mikayla Lyons.
“Considering some of the disruptions we faced last season, I was very proud of what we were able to achieve as a squad. The biggest highlight for me was having so many of our young players make their NPL debuts in what was a very unconventional season.
“The confidence and character that they showed on and off the field provided that extra bit of motivation leading into each game, and I think we’ve been able to continue with that this season. It’s obviously never nice to bow out in a semi-final, particularly when you’re expecting to go further, but we’ll use that as extra fuel this time around.”
The Freo star believes that the secrets of their consistent place among the top sides in the NPL WA competition is down to the bond and fitness that the players have.
“We have a special squad at Fremantle City,” Lyons said. “Off the pitch, we’re all very close friends which helps with our performances on the pitch. I think we’ve created a unique environment at Fremantle where players are encouraged and supported by one another. We’re all extremely passionate and competitive, but also like to have a laugh and enjoy playing together.
“On the field, we like to play fast, attacking-style football. We’re a very fit squad and have quick players throughout all three lines, so we like to utilise that as much as possible. We’re a relentless side, and I think we’ve shown that in a few games already this season coming back from being 2-1 or 2-0 down.”
With most teams having played each other at least once and Fremantle well positioned in the top three, things are looking good for the team. But Lyons is not resting on her laurels.
Above: Mikayla offering some words of advice in training. Photo: Mikayla Lyons.
“Personally, my goal this season is to contribute to the team’s success via more consistent on-field performances. As a team, we’re pushing for the title this year, and we know that’s only going to be realistic if we have every player putting in consistent work. We’ve had a few unexpected changes to our squad over the past few weeks, so we’ve had to adapt quite quickly but I’m confident we can push through and achieve what we’ve set out to do.
“As I mentioned previously, we’re a very tight-knit squad and we have great connections with and respect for our coaching staff, so we’re in the right environment. With that, I have no doubt we can make the club and our supporters proud this season.”
As the league starts to shape, Fremantle’s captain believes that there is a gap starting to form in the competition, with equal development of talent potentially becoming an issue.
“I do think there’s still quite a big divide between the top six and bottom two teams this year. In saying that, the gap is definitely closing which is a credit to the new clubs who have come in, experienced some turbulent times, and pushed through.
“I may ruffle some feathers here, but I do think the spread of talent has stayed stagnant at best over the last few years within the NPLW in WA. I don’t think there’s one specific reason or cause, but with more teams coming in, and more players moving away to pursue opportunities elsewhere, there’s only so much growth that can happen within.
“From my experience, NPLW players are extremely competitive. With that, it’s important for players to feel challenged within their training and playing environments to truly enjoy what they’re doing. For those who are aspiring to play at a higher level, there’s the added importance of making sure they’re developing and learning within their NPL club environments, and when the time is right – the best players need to be able to see a clear pathway into the A-League competition or youth national teams for the younger players.
Above: Mikayla drives in a corner for Fremantle City against Subiaco. Photo supplied by: Mikayla Lyons.
“In my opinion, we’re still behind in all of the areas mentioned above in Western Australia, and as a result, some of our best players are moving overseas and over east to chase what we’re currently failing to offer them.
With Lyons identifying the importance of strong foundations for Western Australian based players to develop, I asked her if she still harboured hopes of an A-League Women contract at Perth Glory.
“In short, no. I’m happiest when I’m enjoying my football in a competitive, yet social environment, and that stems from training and playing with some of my best mates each week. For me, keeping football as a hobby is important.
“We have some extremely talented players currently playing in the WA NPLW competition who I think are more than worthy of an opportunity to prove themselves at an A-League club, like Perth Glory. In saying that, I’m not a talent scout or coach, so I won’t comment on the identification process, but it would be good to see some more local talent within the Perth Glory squad in the next few seasons.”
Away from football, Lyons is kept busy by PhD studies at Notre Dame University as well as working as a strength and conditioning coach for Fremantle Dockers in the AFLW.
“Yeah, I currently work as a strength & conditioning coach with the AFLW team and absolutely love it,” she enthused. “The staff and players are all incredible, and the environment they’ve created at the club is second to none. I’ve probably raised my expectations a bit at Fremantle City since working at the Dockers, from both an on-field and off-field perspective.”
With someone of the character of Mikayla Lyons wearing the armband, Fremantle City are always going to be driven towards success. It’s now down to her and her teammates to chase down Perth RedStar and deny the high-flying league leaders silverware later in the season.
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos(1/6/22).
Above: Calder United (green) battle it out with FV Emerging at the weekend. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
South Melbourne 9-0 Bayside United
South Melbourne FC made their slow start to the NPLW season seem like a momentary blip with a 9-0 thrashing of Bayside United.
It took less than three minutes for the home side to score. Kiara Hronopoulos won the ball back quickly when Bayside were looking to counter. After Janne Lawson was played into space, she opted to cross instead of shoot. Hronopoulos had continued her run and met the ball at the back post for an easy finish borne of effort.
After setting up the first, Lawson scored the second. Kat Goff brushed aside the Bayside defence on the left and had the vision to find Lawson unmarked in the middle. Her composed finish was her fourth in as many games. Lawson’s form in front of goal has coincided with South’s recent improvement.
The third goal was one that Bayside’s goalkeeper Kelsey Quinn would prefer to forget. Lawson was able to charge in from the right flank almost unimpeded. With a crowd of attackers and defenders arriving in the middle, she opted to shoot. Quinn blocked the initial strike, but the ball squirmed under her and it was scrambled over the line. South Melbourne had a 3-0 lead in the seventh minute.
It was credited as an own goal to Quinn, but that feels harsh on the goalkeeper. Lawson’s shot was on target and the ball was crawling over the line before the final touch amid some goal-line chaos.
South Melbourne’s fourth goal drew muted celebrations from their own players. It was another attack within far too much space for Bayside’s liking. With three defenders to stop three forwards, the ball was kicked almost directly into the net for an own goal. Quinn got a hand to it, but could not prevent the ball hitting the back of the net.
South Melbourne scored their fifth goal on the edge of half time. Grace Taranto timed her run and jumped highest to head powerfully from a corner kick. It was a textbook finish and a move right from the training ground.
The former Calder United, and Adelaide United player is surely on the radar for A-League Women recruiters for the next season. This goal was a good reminder of her ability.
South Melbourne had time to add a sixth before the whistle. Kat Goff delivered a perfect cutback after another aggressive run on the left. Gough took an extra touch that narrowed her angle but put her into more space. South Melbourne had outnumbered Bayside in the box and Caitlin Picket left Quinn with no chance.
Above: By the break, South Melbourne had already built up a match-winning lead against Bayside United. Graphic: South Melbourne FC.
After setting up two, and causing constant problems on the left-wing, Goff scored one herself.
It was another brutally fast attack from South Melbourne, Goff raced onto a long through ball from midfield and ran as close to goal as possible before calmly sliding the ball past Quinn at the near post.
It was a hattrick of assists to Goff and a first for Francesca Iermano for South’s eighth goal. Goff collected a ball at the back post and cut it back. Iermano connected well off her left foot and was too close to goal for Quinn to be able to do much to stop it.
South Melbourne’s ninth and mercifully for Bayside, final goal came from Caitlin Pickett. Her brace was notched up after some strong wing play on the right. It was a simple finish but an exhausted Bayside offered little resistance to the attack.
South Melbourne won this game by outnumbering Bayside in their own penalty area. For most of the goals, there were at least as many attackers as defenders.
Bayside is a young squad and there is not much to gain in the long or medium-term by parking the bus. However these huge losses are mounting up and after offering a much-improved performance in Round Eight, this feels like a step back.
Above: South Melbourne were clear winners against Bayside United. Graphic: South Melbourne FC.
South Melbourne has their swagger back. The start to the season was uncharacteristically slow, but they have now hit form, both individually and as a team.
They face Alamein in the next round as they attempt to climb the table further. After sitting bottom two weeks ago, South Melbourne are now ninth and improving.
Above: Action from Box Hill United (blue) against Bulleen Lions. Photo: HD Creative.
Across the rest of the games, Box HillUnited impressed against Bulleen Lions. The favoured Bulleen hit the lead through Alana Jancevski’s 77th-minute penalty. The home side hit back in the 84th minute through substitute Emma Langley.
Above: Heidelberg United go on the attack against Alamein. Photo: Sally Tsalikidis.
HeidelbergUnited continued to assert themselves as the team to beat at the top of the table. Their 2-1 win over Alamein puts them a point clear of Calder United. Sidney Allan opened the scoring for Alamein but two very late goals by Sophie Papalia and Danielle Wise secured the points for the league leaders.
Above: Calder United on the ball against FV Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
Calder United kept the pressure on first place with a 5-0 win over FV Emerging. Goals to Alana Cerne, Melissa Taranto, Harriet Withers, and a brace to Adriana Taranto made for a dominant performance by a team that all A-League Women observers should be keeping a close eye on.
Ben Gilby rounds up all the action from the Svenska Cupen Final as well as this week’s Damallsvenskan and Elitettan action (31/5/22).
Above: Rosengård lift the Svenska Cupen after defeating BK Häckenafter extra-time. Photo: FC Rosengård.
SVENSKA CUPEN FINAL
The battle of the top two teams in Swedish women’s football went Rosengård‘s way as they defeated BK Häcken 2-1 at their Malmö Idrottsplats home on Thursday evening.
Häcken came out of the blocks strongest with a high pressing and high-intensity game. They went in front after just seven minutes when Hanna Wijk’s long ball found Johanna Rytting Kaneryd who finished confidently. The key for this final was that, despite being so strong in the opening half-hour, Häcken could not add to their lead.
Above: FC Rosengård’s Charli Grant (14) keeps her eye on the ball in Thursday night’s Svenska Cupen Final. Photo: BK Häcken.
The second half saw the momentum switch towards Rosengård. Jelena Čanković got a stranglehold of the midfield. Eventually, the goal came as Bea Sprung’s shot went in off the crossbar. As the game ticked towards extra time, BK Häcken created a golden opportunity as Filippa Curmark was only denied by a sensational save by Rosengård’s Australian international goalkeeper Teagan Micah who pushed the ball onto the bar.
The outcome was eventually decided amidst huge controversy in extra time. A corner came in and Rosengård’s Stefanie Sanders nudged the ball goalwards which Häcken goalkeeper Jennifer Falk dived on. The assistant referee ruled that the ball had crossed the line. Despite protestations to the contrary from Häcken, the goal was given.
So, a 2-1 victory and it was Rosengård who ended the night lifting the trophy in front of 1,839 fans.
Above: Rosengård players celebrate after the final whistle. Photo: FC Rosengård.
DAMALLSVENSKAN
Above: Dramatic goalmouth action in the game between BK Häcken and Djurgården. Photo: DIF.
Round 11 kicked off on Friday night as KIF Örebro hosted Eskilstuna United in the El Gnällico derby. In a key game between two upper mid-table teams, it was the hosts who ran out 1-0 winners in front of 512 fans. Amanda Rantanen held off Matilda Plan and found Emma Östlund whose shot came off an Eskilstuna player for an own goal after 35 minutes.
Above: KIF Örebro celebrate their win over Eskilstuna United. Photo: Johan Bernstrom/Bildbyrån
BK Häcken‘s winless run stretched to a third straight Damallsvenskan game after they were held to a 0-0 draw at home to a Djurgården side who have only won four of their opening 11 fixtures. 516 fans watched on as Häcken’s recent form means that have taken just two points out of the last nine available and now sit third on the table, four points behind leaders Rosengård.
Above: BK Häcken (yellow and black) battle it out for possession against Djurgården. Photo: DIF.
Vittsjö are fourth after a 3-0 win over IF Brommapojkarna. Matildas star Katrina Gorry was influential once more for her new team in this success in front of 717 fans. Elisabet Klinga played in Kayla Adamek to put the hosts ahead after 36 minutes. Sarah Stratigakis doubled the advantage just past the hour mark. Matters were settled when Gorry fed Linda Sällström to seal the victory.
Above: Action from Vittsjö’s win over IF Brommapojkarna. Photo: Jessica Gow/TT.
Hammarby‘s improved form continued as they gained a 5-1 win at an IFK Kalmar side who are now just above the drop zone. Alyssa Walker gave the home side the lead with 26 minutes gone, but the second half was all about the visitors. Madelen Janogy was immense. The national team star smashed a hat-trick, with her second and third goals coming within 120 seconds of each other. If that wasn’t enough, she also provided an assist for Australian international Courtney Nevin with 53 minutes played. Ellen Gibson scored the other for the Stockholm-based side.
Above: Courtney Nevin celebrates after putting Hammarby 2-1 ahead at IFK Kalmar. Photo: Hammarby.
AIK suffered another defeat as their tough start to the campaign continued, going down 4-0 at home to high-flying Linköping. The visitors took the lead just before the half-hour mark thanks to Therese Simonsson, who added a second ten minutes later. Four minutes into the second half Yuka Momiki made it 3-0. With 73 minutes played Alva Selerud completed the scoring. Life is not going to get any easier for the rock-bottom Solna-based side when they travel to nearby Hammarby this coming weekend – a team who are in form.
Above: Linköping celebrate their win at AIK. Photo: Linköping.
Kristianstads continued their good run of form which has seen them take 13 points out of the last 15, with a 2-0 win at Umeå IK. Mia Carlsson’s strike seven minutes before half-time was added to by Gabrielle Carle with 13 minutes remaining to seal the win in front of 1,950.
Above: The scenes post match in the Kristianstads dressing room. Photo: Kristianstads DFF.
The final game of the round came on Monday night, and there was real drama at Malmö Idrottsplats where leaders Rosengård needed a goal in stoppage time at the end of the game to see off the challenge of Piteå in front of 558 fans. It should be no surprise that the visitors would prove tough opponents as, despite sitting ninth in the Damallsvensan with only four wins, they held BK Häcken to a draw last week. The home side went ahead just after the hour mark when Katrine Veje provided the assist for Loreta Kullashi. With ten minutes remaining, Piteå were level when Hlin Eiríksdóttir converted a penalty. Then came the late drama, and Stefanie Sanders netted the winner for the home side to scenes of huge joy. The win sees Rosengård go two points clear at the top of the table – but they face a huge game this coming weekend away to second-placed Linköping.
Artwork: OBOS Damallsvenskan.
ROUND 12 FIXTURES: Djurgården v IFK Kalmar, Linköping v Rosengård, Eskilstuna United v Vittsjö, IF Brommapojkarna v BK Häcken, Kristianstads v KIF Örebro, Piteå v Umeå IK, Hammarby v AIK.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll.
ELITETTAN
Above: Melissa Davin – who put Alingsås FC United ahead in their top-of-the-table clash with Lidköpings FK. Photo: Alingsås FC United.
The top two sides faced off this weekend in front of the round’s highest crowd of 252. Those gathered at Framnäs IP Bävervallen saw previous leaders Lidköpings FK dethroned after a 2-0 defeat at home to Alingsås FC United who are now top as a result. After a goalless first half, the visitors took the game by the scruff of its neck with two goals in 17 minutes thanks to Melissa Davin and Olivia Sultan.
Växjö are second after a 4-0 win at bottom side Älvsjö AIK FF. Mimmi Strömgren put the visitors ahead with 21 minutes on the clock. Right on the half-time whistle, Älvsjö keeper Wilma Stenman saved Elin Nilsson’s penalty to keep the hosts in touch. However, two goals in nine second-half minutes eventually settled matters as Evelyn Ijeh and Dessislava Dupuy and both found the net. Olivia Mattsson completed the scoring with 73 minutes played in front of 178 fans.
Above: Dessislava Dupuy, on target again for Växjö. Photo: Playmakerstats.
IK Uppsala missed a chance to go top after being held 1-1 at Ifö Bromölla IF. The home side took the lead thanks to Patrycja Jercak’s goal. The prolific Nicole Robertson leveled for Uppsala with seven minutes to go in front of 85 fans.
Above: Ifö Bromölla IF goalscorer Patrycja Jercak. Photo: Kobiecy Futbol.
IFK Norrköping are fifth after a 3-0 win at Bergdalens IK. Lovisa Gustafsson set the scoreboard moving after just five minutes. The other strikes came in a five-minute spell towards the end of the game. Sabina Ravnell and Emelie Johansson were on target.
Above: Success for IFK Norrköping at Bergdalens IK. Photo: IFK Norrköping.
Round Nine: Lidköpings FK 0-2 Alingsås FC United, Mallbackens IF Sunne 4-0 Team TG FF, Sundsvalls 1-2 Jitex BK, Bergdalens IK 0-3 IFK Norrköping, Ifö Bromölla IF 1-1 IK Uppsala, Älvsjö AIK FF 0-4 Växjö, Gamla Upsala SK 3-0 Rävåsens IK Karlskoga.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll.
Round 10 (Fixtures): Team TG FF v Bergdalens IK, IK Uppsala v Älvsjö AIK FF, Jitex BK v Mallbackens IF Sunne, Växjö v Lidköpings FK, Rävåsens IK Karlskoga v Ifö Bromölla IF, IFK Norrköping v Sundsvalls, Alingsås FC United v Gamla Upsala SK.
Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the 21st round of D1 Arkema(31/5/22).
Above: Olympique Lyonnais celebrate their D1 title after beating rivals Paris St. Germain. Photo: OL Feminin.
Olympique Lyonnais sealed their 15th D1 Arkema title after defeating closest rivals Paris St. Germain 1-0 in the capital. Whilst PSG had more possession (59%), Lyon were very strong in midfield and defense which meant that despite creating opportunities, the home side were not able to score. The deciding goal came early for Lyon. With three minutes played, Selma Bacha fed Catarina Macario who netted. It was another impressive display from Bacha, who was outstanding in the recent UEFA Champions League (UWCL) Final against Barcelona. The same player also topped the assist charts for the UWCL with nine. Lyon’s victory in Paris sent them eight points clear, confirming the D1 title ahead of Paris SG. Lyon are able to boast the league’s best attack with 75 goals scored and best defense with only eight goals conceded from their 20 wins and one draw in 21 matches. Goal for Lyon from: Catarina Macario (3).
Paris FC won 4-1 away from home against Bordeaux. This game was slightly dominated by Paris FC (55% possession). Even if Bordeaux scored first at the 20th minute, they were never really in a position to win this game. Goals for Paris FC from: Gaëtane Thiney (35 penalty, 43), Ouleymata Sarr (45+1, 82). Goal for Bordeaux: Melissa Herrera (20). Red card for Taimara de Souza da Silva (85) for a second yellow.
Soyaux won 2-0 at home against Guingamp. In a game dominated by Guingamp (61% possession), Soyaux was more efficient and scored twice with the same number of shots on target (three). With this win, Soyaux can still hope to stay in D1 Arkema next year specially as fellow relegation battlers Issy will play in Lyon for their last game and Soyaux face Saint-Etienne. Goals for Soyaux from: Camille Colin (66), Fadimatou Aretouyap Kome (74).
Above: Montpellier players celebrate their 5-2 win at Issy. Photo: Montpellier HSC.
Reims gained a point from their trip to Dijon which ended in a 2-2 draw. In a game dominated by Reims (57% possession), Dijon twice led, but Reims responded both times. Goals for Reims from: Kethna Louis (44), Melchie Daëlle Dumornay (72). Goals for Dijon from: Léa Declercq (2, 49).
Montpellier won 5-2 away from home against Issy. With this loss, Issy remain on 13 points along with Soyaux but as they will play Lyon for the last game, they will probably be in trouble. Goals for Montpellier from: Nérilia Mondésir (7, 63), Cyrielle Blanc (12), Lena Petermann (38), Mary Fowler (90+1). Goals for Issy from: Adélie Fourré (27), Batcheba Louis (66).
Fleury won 4-2 at home against Saint-Etienne. Despite Saint-Etienne leading 2-0 after 20 minutes, it was always felt that Fleury would come back to win. Nikola Karczewska hit a hat-trick as the hosts settled matters in the final four minutes. Goals for Fleury from: Nikola Karczewska (47 penalty, 60, 86), Julie Piga (89). Goals for Saint-Etienne from: Juliette Vidal (9), Kelly Gago (23).
Above: Olympique Lyonnais fans send a message of support to Ellie Carpenter, who injured her ACL in the Champions League win over Barcelona. Photo: Damien LG/OL Feminin.
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