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Finals Preview: Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory

Ahead of Sunday’s second A-League Women semi-final, Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Adelaide United‘s Dylan Holmes and Fiona Worts along with Melbourne Victory head coach Jeff Hopkins (12/3/22).

Sunday’s semi-final at Coopers Stadium between Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory will see the winner face Melbourne City next weekend for the right to face Sydney FC in this season’s Grand Final in the Harbour City.

Adelaide United star Dylan Holmes looked ahead to their first-ever W-/A-League Women Finals match by admitting that she still isn’t sure if she really believes that it’s happening.

“I don’t know if it has fully sunk in yet. I’m so excited and it’s been a long time coming. I think that the fact that we have so many South Australian girls in the squad makes it even more special.

“We’re going to go into the game with a lot of confidence and with the crowd supporting us. We’re in a totally new situation. I don’t think any of us have ever played a Finals game before, but luckily, we’ve played Melbourne Victory twice this season so we know what to expect and that’s a good thing.”

“It’s Finals, so everything gets thrown out of the window. What happened a couple of weeks ago is not relevant now.”

**Above:** Adelaide United Dylan Holmes speaks to the media on Wednesday ahead of her team’s first-ever W-/A-League Women Finals match. **Photo** **supplied to *Impetus* by:** Adelaide United.

Whilst some might just be delighted to actually have made their maiden A-League Women Finals campaign, Holmes is positive that her team aren’t just there to make up the numbers.

“There is a feeling that we can now go all the way. We’ve had a great run to the end of the season and scored a lot of goals. We’re clicking at the right time and there is so much belief that things won’t end here. We’re going to fight for it (a Grand Final win).”

“This is the biggest game for the club’s women’s team. It’s at Coopers Stadium, so we really hope lots of fans will turn out to support us.”

“We’ve grown a lot between when we played them the first time (Adelaide lost 5-1) and the second time (Adelaide won 3-0). We have a lot of belief that we will beat them.”

**Above:** Adelaide United’s Fiona Worts at her media conference on Friday. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Adelaide United.

Adelaide United striker Fiona Worts, the A-League Women’s leading scorer is all out to top what she described as “the best season of her career” by recording her team’s first-ever W-/A-League Women Finals win tomorrow.

“It’s exciting, (but) it’s going to be a very different game against Victory this time as we know they won’t have liked the result when they last played here (a 3-0 Adelaide win).”

Whilst unlike a number of her team-mates, Worts wasn’t in South Australia for the club’s difficult days, she recognizes the incredible progress her side have made in recent years.

“For me I’ve only known a strong Adelaide United – almost making Finals last year and qualifying this year. We deserve to be here. Towards the end of the season we have been really strong.

“A lot of these girls have been here for a long time. It’s credit to them the progress that has been made here and where we are now. We’re hoping that it will be a big crowd tomorrow and with it being a double-header, it would be great if the fans turn up in numbers early for our game rather than coming in late second half for the men’s game after ours.”

This may be the first post-season A-League Women match for the club’s players, Worts points out that there is big match experience in the Adelaide United side.

“I’ve played in cup finals and that before for other teams and some of the other girls have too, so there is experience of these big games here. This has definitely been the best season of my career. I’m happy here and enjoying things, so that’s a big part of me doing what I’ve done this season.

“I feel confident on the ball now whether it is laying off to team-mates who I know can take it on well, or me going on to shoot.”

Worts hinted that she has been approached by clubs overseas as a result of her outstanding form this season, but insisted that right now her focus is solely on Adelaide United.

“For me, I want to play at the highest level I can for as long as I can. I’m not thinking about what happens after the next few weeks, it’s all about the Finals with Adelaide. When you have a good season, doors open elsewhere, but that’s for the future.”

**Above:** Melbourne Victory head coach Jeff Hopkins talking to the media on Friday. **Photo:** Melbourne Victory.

Melbourne Victory head coach Jeff Hopkins knows that his team will have to do it the hard way if they want to retain their title after finishing fourth going into the new Finals system.

“The new Finals format means it’s harder for us, meaning we’ll have to win three games now and will have to play away three weeks in a row. I really like the format though. Last season we lost to Sydney near the end of the campaign and then had to go away to Brisbane to win the semi.”

After a heavy fixture schedule in recent weeks, Hopkins’ squad have had time to rest and recharge, and have generally positive selections news ahead of the game. “Kyra (Cooney-Cross) is not available, but everyone else is. It’s a nice position for me to be in as a coach. Melina Ayres could start if called upon. She played 20 minutes last week and came back really well. She has good game understanding and really looked after her body whilst she was injured. I pretty much know who I’m selecting. Kyra is out, but we have a good squad, it is not fazing us.

Victory are Finals regulars, but they travel to an Adelaide United side on Sunday who are preparing for their first-ever W-League/A-League Finals campaign.

“I think we have an advantage on Adelaide as we have lots of Finals experience,” Victory’s head coach asserted. “Having said that, it could go the other way with Adelaide really buzzing having made it for the first time. We can’t do anything about them though. I’m impressed with the quality of our training and energy.

“Last time we went there, just a couple of weeks ago, we lost 3-0, but we are in a very different place now. Different personnel and we were in the middle of a lot of fixtures in a short turnaround. There are a couple of areas, particularly midfield duels that we lost badly out there and I wasn’t happy about that and the team have recognized that they want to put that right. The attitude will be completely different.

“Bungey (Claudia Bunge) will be back and as far as I know, we haven’t conceded a goal when Bunge and Brooke Hendrix have played together. Melina (Ayres) will play a big park and so will AJ (Amy Jackson). Our form coming into the game isn’t fantastic, but there are definite reasons for that and we understand why. Fatigue crept in. We’ve been through it and come out of it.

“Physically we are a lot better now, but mentally as well, knowing we came through it unscathed. We know what we’ve got to do and it is down to us to go there and to show we are capable of putting in a performance that we are capable of. If we can do that I am confident that we can go to Adelaide and win.”

Sydney Seal Sensational Grand Final Return

Sydney FC 4-2 Melbourne City

After Extra-Time

Above: Sydney FC players and fans go wild after Cote Rojas’ equalizer one minute into stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Report and EXCLUSIVE pitch side photos from Kris Goman at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium (12/3/22).

What. A. Match. Seriously, just go and watch it.

It’s hard to even describe this match and do it justice, there was so much going on. Sydney FC v Melbourne City, arguably the two best teams in the comp by a stretch. Semi-Final. Winner goes straight to the grand final and gets to host the Grand Final. Loser plays the winner of the other semi for a second chance. There’s a lot at stake.

Before we even start, Sydney get presented the Premier’s Plate and plenty of fans got in early to enjoy that triumph. The plate was presented, the plate was hoisted, the fireworks went off and the streamers fell. A nice start to the evening for the Sydney fans.

Sydney started well and really dominated the first half with possession, territory, and shots however City got the first runs on the board on a transition play. Leticia McKenna sent a ball from midfield out to Tyla-Jay Vlajnic on the left. She ran onto it and with one touch, put it to the centre of the box just into reach of Nat Tobin who tapped it right into the path of Hannah Wilkinson coming around from behind her.

One movement with her left foot and the Kiwi striker had it into the bottom right corner of the box despite Jana Whyman’s best efforts and outstretched foot. Against the run of play, City take the lead and that’s the way it stayed going into halftime.

**Above:** Melbourne City’s Hannah Wilkinson (17) celebrates with Tyla-Jay Vlajnic after putting City 1-0 up. **Photo:** Kris Goman for *Impetus*.

Into the second half and once again Sydney are dominating play but City are biding their time and at 58 minutes Rebekah Stott does a bit of nifty footwork to avoid Charlotte Mclean on the left and passes to an onrushing McKenna. She brings the ball into the box and down to the byline and cuts it back to Wilkinson who has timed her run beautifully and smashes it into the back of the net with Whyman unable to do anything about it. Melbourne have taken a 2-0 lead and have quietened the Sydney crowd. At this stage it looks like we’re going to Melbourne for the Grand Final.

However, Sydney don’t give up that easily and now it gets really interesting. Cortnee Vine came on at halftime for Paige Satchell and Maria Jose Rojas was subbed in at 64 minutes for Remy Siemsen and this partnership defines the term Game Changers.

With seventeen minutes left, Ally Green makes a gang busting run through the entire City defence on the left into the box and right down to the byline to then lob the ball back to the middle of the goal as Vine rushes through and leaps into the air to connect and put the ball past Melissa Barbieri who hasn’t missed a beat yet but is caught flat footed and dejectedly watches it sail past her. It’s a glorious goal and Sydney are back in the match. Green really did all the work on that and deserves the assist.

Things tighten up as Hawkesby lobs a ball from the far side of the centre circle to Vine who’s in the clear with only Barbieri to beat who rushes out from the box. Vine taps it past the City keeper and Vlajnic who is in hot pursuit catches her foot and sends both of them sprawling.

As the last defender, there’s only one result and the ref pulls out the red card. Unfortunately, Vlajnic has hurt herself quite badly in the process and would have been subbed off anyway but now there’s no sub and City are down to ten players which is the last thing they needed.

**Above:** Sydney FC star and inaugural *Impetus* A-League Women Player of the Year Cortnee Vine captured in a familiar pose during yesterday’s semi-final. **Photo:** Kris Goman for *Impetus*.

Shortly after, almost exactly the same thing occurs with Green sending the long ball to Vine who finds herself in wide-open spaces with just her and the City keeper. She chests to the left creating a tight angle before shooting high. It looks like Barbieri gets a hand to it before it slams into the woodwork and over the goal.

Due to a few injuries, we go past 90 minutes and Sydney keep pressing. Mackenzie Hawkesby punts into the box. Nat Tobin runs onto it and is tackled by Tori Tunmeth in the middle of the box and both go down. It’s play on as the ball is cleared by Marisa Van der Meer but it goes straight to Ally Green.

She kicks it straight back to almost where Tobin is still lying in the box and Hawkesby’s outstretched foot brings it down and under control and puts it in front of Rojas. She swivels past Tobin who’s still lying on the field and shoots and the little master makes no mistake as it avoids a diving Barbieri and hits the back of the net. The crowd goes wild. It’s even at 2-2 with minutes to go. The game must be decided so there’s be an extra 15 minutes each way.

At 96 minutes Sydney get a corner and Hawkesby steps up to take it as she usually does. She’s placed it perfectly to the back post and Sarah Hunter finds herself in a bit of space, jumps up, and heads the ball straight in across the goal to the top right. What a time to score your first goal for Sydney! She’s ecstatic and the team goes wild with congratulations and celebrations. As do the crowd.

With eight minutes left on the clock, after a shot on goal by City, Whyman catches and quickly boots the ball upfield, releasing Rojas. She’s not alone but splits Meisha Westland and Kaitlyn Torpey with a pass through to Vine who’s sprinted to catch up with play. She runs on to the ball and slots it past Barbieri. It seals the match at 4-2 and secures the home grand final for Sydney FC.

**Above:** Sydney FC celebrate their place in the Grand Final after coming from behind to beat Melbourne City in some style. **Photo:** Kris Goman for *Impetus*

However, there’s one final piece of drama to unfold. Vine once again finds herself in the clear with just Bubs to beat. Barbieri isn’t having another goal though and comes out of the box and jumps with all arms and legs out as Vine shoots. It catches her hand and she knows it. The ref also knows it and brings out a red. The City keeper is off along with Vlajnic and both will miss the next game in a sensational finish.

There’s so much that’s not detailed in this report. The coaches got yellows too, there was drama, aggression, injury, heroes and some incredible play. 27 shots by Sydney. The full game needs watching. Seek it out.

Speaking after the game, Sydney FC attacker Cortnee Vine said: “I wanted to be a game-changer when I came on. I know our team is the fittest in the league and I knew we’d run over them and that’s what we ended up doing. I just wanted to get on and score and change the game and I think I ended up doing that.”

The Premier’s head coach Ante Juric was delighted and showed his pride in his team’s achievement. “It was an epic encounter. I wasn’t surprised because City are excellent and it went back and forth and we came back from 2-0 which was nice. I’m real happy and proud of everyone. I just want these girls to win the Grand Final so much and I’ll try and do everything I can to get them there.”

Kris Goman’s EXCLUSIVE Photo Gallery From Netstrata Jubilee Stadium For Impetus: Cick on first image to start sideshow

Teams: SYDNEY FC: Whyman, Green, Tobin, McLean, Rule, Ray, Hawkesby, Lowe, Ibini, Siemsen, Satchell Substitutes: Offer, Nash, Hunter, Rojas, Vine.

Scorers: Vine 73′, 113. Rojas 90+1, Hunter 96’.

MELBOURNE CITY: Barbieri, Torpey, Tunmeth, Checker, Heatley, Vlajnic, Davidson, Stott, McKenna, Pollicina, Wilkinson Substitutes: James (GK), Van der Meer, Blissett, Westland, Karic.

Scorers: Wilkinson 21′, 58′.

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello

Attendance: 942

A-League Women Awards For 2021/22

This season, our writing team covering the competition – Ben Gilby, Kris Goman, and Kieran Yap have been voting for their Player and Coach of the Week from Round One onwards. With the regular campaign now over, it is time to tally up all the votes and reveal the inaugural Impetus A-League Women Player of the Year and Coach of the Year (11/3/22).

Every Monday during this season, we announced our votes for the one player and head coach that we felt was the standout for each of the 14 rounds of the A-League Women campaign. With the regular season now over, we tallied up all the votes.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR:

How the votes tallied up: Cortnee Vine 6, Chelsie Dawber 5, Fiona Worts 5, Mackenzie Hawkesby 3, Nanako Sasaki 3, Hannah Wilkinson 3, Kyra Cooney-Cross 2, Cote Rojas 2, Lynn Williams 2, Jada Whyman 2, Ash Brodigan 1, Larissa Crummer 1, Deborah-Ann de la Harpe 1, Annalee Grove 1, Cyera Hintzen 1, Sarah Langman 1, Rachel Lowe 1, Hana Lowry 1, Rhianna Pollicina 1.

BEN’S VIEW Cortnee Vine was by far the best player in the first half of the season and the Sydney FC attacker quickly piled up a lot of votes during this period. Whilst she wasn’t quite in the same form after the Asia Cup, her lead was big enough to see off the challenge of Chelsie Dawber and Fiona Worts who were the stars of the last few months. Vine’s influence both on the wing and cutting in to deliver either pin-point crosses or powerful efforts on goal rendered her unplayable for much of the early part of the campaign. Coming back after a devastating injury at the end of last season, the Sydney star looked better than ever. If she can reproduce that form in the Finals, then it will be hard for anyone to defeat the Harbour City side.

Chelsie Dawber and Fiona Worts who were second and third in the standings respectively, have both had the best seasons of their careers. Crucially, the pair were outstanding in the South Australia NPL Women’s prior to this A-League Women campaign. Dawber’s Adelaide City and Worts’ Fulham United were not challenging for titles in that competition in 2021, but that didn’t stop these players dominating matches and scoring sackfulls of goals. Worts’ efforts were particularly impressive for a Fulham side who went months without a win. Adelaide will likely receive offers from overseas clubs for both.

KRIS’ VIEW: When it comes to Cortnee Vine, I have to admit I’m a total fan girl here. I can’t get enough of her penetrating runs and superb crosses. She reminds me of Lauren Hemp with a little more control and a little less aggro but just as effective. I could not have been more thrilled that she made the Matildas team. To win this award after missing a few matches being away with the Matildas is testament to how dominating she was this season. A very worthy winner from a very worthy team.

It was kind of fitting that Chelsie Dawber and Fiona Worts came in on equal points in joint second place. They have been a force up front for Adelaide United and a goal-scoring phenomenon. Worts took the golden boot for the season with 13 goals but Dawber wasn’t far behind with 10 of her own. Both exceptional performances in anyone’s books. But combined it took Adelaide to the finals for the first time ever. The team and both these players got better as the season went on which bodes well for their finals campaign.

**Above:** Cortnee Vine’s superb form in the first half of the A-League Women season earned her a first call up to the Matildas – and enough points to become our inaugeral Player of the Year award winner. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Football Australia.

KIERAN’S VIEW: Any of the top three players in our voting charts this season could have won it. I think in hindsight I would have liked to have given Barbieri and Pollicina more votes because they were both excellent in every game. But Cortnee Vine is a deserved winner. She was far and away the best player in the early stages of the season to help set up Sydney’s premiership charge. At her best she is unstoppable with her pace and finishing.

Fiona Worts and Chelsie Dawber both reached double figures and helped Adelaide United to third. Worts caught fire late as Vine did early. It is a signal of Adelaide’s strength as a team that both players possibly took votes from each other. Three amazing players in career-best form lit up the league this season. Congratulations Cortnee Vine for taking out the Impetus Award for best player.

COACH OF THE YEAR:

How the votes tallied up: Alex Epakis 9, Gemma Lewis 8, Adrian Stenta 8, Ante Juric 6, Jeff Hopkins 3, Rado Vidosic 3, Catherine Cannuli 2, Garrath McPherson 2, Sergio Malfara 1, Ash Wilson 1.

BEN’S VIEW: There will no doubt be those who believe that a coach whose team didn’t make Finals perhaps shouldn’t be winning this award – but this was not a normal season – and Perth Glory’s experiences and performances were far from normal. Their achievements, led by Alex Epakis were nothing short of sensational. A carefully constucted major re-build which brought together a number of young talent along with some much needed experience led to an exciting looking team on paper pre-season. However, only being able to play one home game and spending three months 4,000 miles from Western Australia could have led to a tough season. Yet, Perth chalked up a number of superb results and excellent performances. Having spoken to nine of Glory’s players during the season, they were unanimous in stating the importance of Epakis in bringing the team together, creating a unique bond and giving them the belief to go out and achieve no matter what hurdles were placed in front of them. With much of his squad tied down for another year, you can’t help but feel this is just the beginning for Epakis’ Perth side.

Adrian Stenta‘s work with Adelaide United has been consistently impressive. After missing out on Finals by a single goal last time round and losing some key players, it could have been tough to lift the side this season. However, Stenta helped to foster a sense of determination to go one better. Adelaide peaked at the right time as the campaign reached its pointy end and they go into their first A-League Women Finals as the in-form team. Gemma Lewis‘ achievements with Wellington Phoenix are remarkable and worthy of recognition. Building an exceptionally young team at the eleveth hour and developing their belief, ability and determination as the season went on, despite being based away from New Zealand for the whole of the campaign was nothing short of outstanding.

KRIS’ VIEW: It’s interesting that these coaching awards haven’t gone to the winners but to the most improved teams. Perth Glory did not win a match last season. This season they nearly made the finals. The turnaround was incredible to watch in an extremely difficult session for this team that included being locked out of their home state, away from family and friends, with only one home game in front of their fans, littered with Covid, isolations, and injuries. It felt like Alex Epakis hand-picked the team, molded them to his plans, instilled his game tactics, kept morale at its peak, and got all the wins – well most of them. It was a joy to watch.

**Above:** Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis – the first-ever *Impetus* A-League Women Coach of the Year. **Photo:** Perth Glory.

Starting from a higher baseline, Adrian Stenta took the next step this year. The season built as the team gelled and the wins got better, the goals piled up and they beat harder teams above them on the table. They looked good and turned into a formidable team.

Another team facing an absolute uphill battle due to circumstances out of their control, Wellington Phoenix’s Gemma Lewis had limited time to even find a team. On top of this, they had no real home games, being locked out of their whole country and extra regulations to work within. Lewis pulled the team together and made them very competitive. Despite being the wooden spooners, they were no easy beats. Every match was hard-fought and most, particularly towards the end of the season, were very close. It was admirable work, especially their first win.

KIERAN’S VIEW: Alex Epakis improved Perth Glory beyond what many thought possible this season. He recruited strongly and targeted players for specific purposes to rebound from Glory’s winless 2020/21. With the team living away from home for most of season, they overcame every obstacle except goal difference to finish marginally outside of the finals. Perth was compelling to follow and enjoyable to watch. This young side and their Impetus Award winning coach will be ones to watch again next season.

Adrian Stenta made history as the first coach to make the finals with Adelaide United. It was the culmination of many years of planning as an assistant and first-team manager at the club and thoroughly deserved. Gemma Lewis created a team from scratch and despite their inexperience, they never took a backwards step. She uncovered some absolute stars of the competition, names like Kate Taylor and Alyssa Whinham are now familiar to us as key players in everybody’s second favourite team.

Finals Preview: Sydney FC v Melbourne City

Ahead of Sydney FC’s Finals game against Melbourne City, Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Sydney FC striker Remy Siemsen and the City duo of Emma Checker and head coach Rado Vidosic (10/3/22).

This season sees an additional week of Finals. On Friday night, the top two, Sydney FC and Melbourne City go head to head for a place in the Grand Final at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium. The losing team will get a second chance the following weekend against the winner of Sunday’s Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory Final.

Sydney FC‘s Matildas striker Remy Siemsen highlighted how focussed she is on getting over the line tomorrow night. “Melbourne City were the one team that has beaten us this season, so we’re all out for revenge. We have fire in our bellies for a big win. I have faith and confidence in the squad that they will get the job done tomorrow.

Whilst the losing team will have another opportunity to make the Grand Final, Siemsen is going all out to beat City to qualify at the first attempt. “A semi-final is super-important and we don’t want to be overwhelmed, we just want to focus on ourselves and our game plan and book ourselves a ticket into the Grand Final. That’s super important for us. We want redemption after losing to Victory at the death last year. It is nice to have a second chance if we lose, but we are out to do everything possible to book that ticket tomorrow.”

**Above:** Sydney FC’s Remy Siemsen (left), pictured battling with Wellington Phoenix’s Kate Taylor, is firmly focused on defeating Melbourne City tomorrow to make the Grand Final at their first attempt. **Photo:** Matt King/Getty Images

“Melbourne City are a quality team with quality players throughout their squad. We have met them a lot over the years in Finals series and in Grand Finals. We know though that we have quality all through our squad too to overcome them.

“Winning the Premiership is a huge achievement. At the outset this season we said we wanted to win both trophies this year. We did celebrate in the changing room after last weekend’s game, but any more celebrations are waiting until after the Grand Final which is what we want now.”

The striker feels that the special bond between players at the club, who have been together for so many years now could be the decisive factor in their favour against City.

“Winning the Grand Final is something I’ve wanted to achieve. I love this club more than anything, they are my home away from home. We are all best friends on and off the pitch, which would make it even more special. We are doing anything mentally and physically to make sure we are working to win.

“I love big games and Finals. It’s a position I’ve been in plenty of times before, so I just want to do my job and help the team tick off the goal of winning the Grand Final.”

**Above:** Melbourne City’s Emma Checker speaking to the media today. **Photo:** Melbourne City.

Melbourne City‘s Emma Checker spoke of the pride she feels in the way the team has hit back this season from the disappointments of 2020/21 to finish second this time round.

“I’m absolutely stoked about our season. We believed we were capable of this, but we’ve proved it to everyone. The new Finals format is a positive and we are in it to win it. The positive of winning the one v two Final guarantees you a home Grand Final.

“We are going to play it like it is a knockout as we really want a week off and have that home Grand Final.”

Checker tried to put her finger on why the club had experienced such a tough time last season, but also saw those challenges as a major aid to their performances this time round.

“It’s harder to stay at the top, it’s not an easy place to be. We’ve had a lot of success since we came into the league, but we had a lot of learning opportunities as a result of last season, and Rado and his staff worked really hard to get good players, good people. Maybe we needed that tough season last time round to help us drive us for something special this season.”

The Australian international spoke of what her own personal goals were for this campaign and how she feels she has done so far in achieving those aims.

“I have been focusing on becoming a better leader and I wanted to focus on being the best person I can be. There was a big turnover of players and I needed to see how I could help bring everyone together. I like to think I’ve done everything I can to make sure that happened.”

Looking specifically at the challenges that Sydney will post City this weekend, Checker knows the threat of her opponents’ strikeforce.

“We respect the quality of Sydney’s front line. They have shown that they are a powerhouse. We are very confident that we can play at that level and match that quality. It will be a good challenge for us. They are coming in full strength. We are missing Holly McNamara, but we are looking really strong too.

“As a squad we don’t just learn our own position, but a wider understanding of other roles too, so there is an awareness of what we might need to do should someone come off and we need to change positions. That’s a massive plus for us. Adelaide were able to rattle them last week, we are wanting to do the same this time.”

**Above:** Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic at today’s media conference. **Photo:** Melbourne City.

Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic opened his media conference by highlighting player availability this week.

“Stotty (Rebekah Stott) will be back. We used last weekend to rest a couple of players, but we have no concerns apart from Holly (McNamara) who is out for the rest of the season.”

City has played Sydney twice this season, the second occasion saw them become the only side to defeat the Harbour City team during 2021/22.

“We have analyzed both games against Sydney, and we will be using things from those matches, but a lot of things have changed since then. We need to remember that we are playing away against them and we lost that. They were excellent against us that day.

“Our players know their responsibilities and have adhered to our principles so we are confident. Obviously, there is always a chance of a mistake. Whoever makes less mistakes will win the game.”

Melbourne City have come a long way since the disappointments of last season. A strong recruitment pre-season has built a hugely talented squad. Vidocic pointed out that the key to their campaign has been the number of players at the top of their form for so much of the campaign.

“Our progression has been very good. If we had everyone available for matches, I think we would have been the league winners and at home this weekend. We have helped Stotty come back. Tori (Tunmeth), ‘Mini’ (Rhianna Pollicina), Hannah Wilkinson have all had their best-ever season. Holly McNamara has been amazing. We haven’t seen much of Leticia McKenna after injury, but she is wonderful player.”

As good as City’s season have been, their head coach recognizes that Sydney are full of top-quality players.

“Sydney have been the best team in the league. They have arguably the best coach in the league. They have so much power and attacking threat. They even have (Paige) Satchell and (Cote) Rojas on the bench! There is a solid backline and goalkeeper in the team of the year. Their midfield is better than most as well. They are a very good team.”

Asked whether he sees his team as underdogs this weekend, Vidosic said: “I don’t want us to be underdogs, I want us to be big dogs! We have adjusted this year. A lot of the girls who came into us this year have not been part of a big team. They have been in teams in the middle of the table. We have helped them to progress and it is fantastic.”

In terms of how he views the game being played, City’s head coach outlined a match on three levels. “First, I see a macro game which is the 11 v 11 game. Then there is a mini-game which takes place around the ball which is often a 4 v 4 or 5 v 5. The final level is the micro game which is the 1 v 1 situations.

“For me, it is irrelevant what system Sydney play, we need to outnumber them in the micro game. We have developed this throughout the season. Regardless of what formation Sydney have we will adapt.”

Roar + Canberra = Late Drama Again

Brisbane Roar 3-3 Canberra United

Above: Canberra United’s Michelle Heyman celebrates at Brisbane today. Her hat-trick extended her record-breaking tally of A-League Women goals. Photo: Canberra United.

By Kieran Yap (10/3/22)

Brisbane and Canberra faced off in the final game of the season for both sides and played out a classic to match the incredible 3-3 draw in round three.

Both clubs had started the season slowly but had gained cohesion, confidence, and form in the recent rounds. Finals were out of reach but a competitive first half meant that any suggestion of it being a dead rubber were put to rest.

Mariel Hecher had the first chance of the game. The Brazilian forced Chloe Lincoln into a good early save. Brisbane’s next attack would score the only goal of the first half.

It was no surprise that Katrina Gorry was the architect. The Roar playmaker has been at her best in recent games with assists in both games against Newcastle. The Matildas’ midfielder only needed a flick with the outside of her foot to bisect the Canberra defence. Larissa Crummer raced onto the through ball and finished well beyond Lincoln.

Crummer is another player that has found her feet in the second half of the season. Five of her eight goals have come in the last fortnight of football, and this finish was as good as any.

The former Golden Boot winner has the pace to trouble any defenders and soon found herself in on goal again. Unfortunately for Brisbane, her shot was around Lincoln but also wide of the goal.

Canberra’s best opportunity of the first half came through the combination of Michelle Heyman and Allira Toby. The chance could not be turned in and it was cleared for a corner kick.

**Above:** Celebration time for Brisbane Roar against Canberra United. **Photo:** Brisbane Roar.

Brisbane maintained control as the second half kicked off. Crummer and Shea Connors both almost turned the ball in but it somehow crawled past goal and Canberra survived the scare.

Hollie Palmer tried her luck from range, but it was a comfortable save for Lincoln. Palmer was being played in a deeper role alongside Ayesha Norrie. It gave Brisbane control over the middle of the park and allowed Gorry a free reign to weave her magic.

Her eventual replacement by Rie Kitano only underlined the depth that Brisbane have in the team but has been missing on matchday for much of the season.

Brisbane were on the attack for much of the second half. Connors did very well to outpace and then turn Lauren Keir, but her shot did not trouble Lincoln after some excellent footwork created the opening.

Canberra were holding on, but a second goal looked likely. Connors stole possession in the forward third and released Hecher out wide. She cut inside and the ball moved through Gorry until Norrie received possession in space.

The Roar captain launched a left-foot shot that flew past Lincoln and nestled in the back of the net. It was the second goal that Brisbane had deserved and was scored in nice style.

Canberra answered quickly. Barely 10 minutes later, Heyman stepped up to score her 80^th career goal in the A-League Women.

Toby carried the ball through the middle and played it out in front of the star striker. Heyman kept her body between the ball and Jessie Rasschaert and held her off while finishing calmly to beat Shuttleworth in the Brisbane goal.

**Above:** Michelle Heyman (far right) celebrating after one of her three goals against Brisbane today. **Photo:** Canberra United.

The goal spared Canberra. Grace Maher almost equalized with a trademark effort from long range. Shuttleworth was back pedalling and managed to get a fingertip to the ball as it bounced on the crossbar. Margot Robbine was well placed underneath it but perhaps unaware of the time she had, the French midfielder tried an overhead kick that bounced harmlessly wide.

Robbine made up for that slight error when she created the chance for Heyman to equalize. There are few surer things in Australian football than Michelle Heyman scoring when one-on-one with the keeper and she pulled Canberra level with a well-taken finish.

Both sides were eager to end the season on a high, and although they were providing a spectacle for neutrals, they wanted a win. Connors showed tenacity to win the ball wide and get the ball to Gorry who slipped another ball into Crummer. Lincoln was quick off her line to smother the chance.

Much of Brisbane’s season has been defined by late drama, and this game was no different.

Heyman looked to have scored the winner when she nodded in Grace Maher’s free kick in the 88^th minute. The delivery was curled in perfectly, Shuttleworth was well positioned but the swerve and pace on the ball evaded her and Heyman needed only to direct it in.

It looked like Canberra had snatched a dramatic win, but Brisbane had other ideas.

Without Gorry and with injury time looming, The Roar went on the attack. Megan McElligot received the ball from Crummer’s pass and kept her cool to slot home a late equalizer to make it 3-3.

There was still room for one more piece of late drama. Heyman’s volley was blocked by what looked to be a Brisbane defenders’ hand. It was from point-blank range but the hand was away from the body. It may have been a lucky escape for the Roar but it was in keeping with the hectic nature of the afternoon.

**Above:** Katrina Gorry (left) of Brisbane Roar takes on Canberra United’s Emma Ilijoski.

And so the season ends for both of these clubs, and probably too soon. Canberra United brought in a lot of new players this season and took some time to adjust. They were just hitting form as the season ended much too quickly as it always does.

Vicki Linton’s side uncovered a few gems though and some slight tinkering could see them improve quickly in the next campaign. Sasha Grove is a young player with a lot of skill and swagger. She is one to watch going forward. Chloe Lincoln is another impressive young goalkeeper following in the footsteps of Sally James, another teenager who made an impact between the sticks last year.

Emma Ilijoski enhanced her burgeoning reputation, while Chloe Middleton and Mikayla Vidmar impressed in the later rounds.

Michelle Heyman is likely to return, there are still more chapters left in her iconic career and many more goals to score. Nikki Flannery may return from injury by round one and suddenly Canberra United are looking very good when things kick off again.

Brisbane had a funny season. Like Canberra, they hit form late. Garrath McPherson recruited almost entirely from the Queensland NPLW and with the exception of one match, they were always competitive and usually dangerous.

Their strike force of Shea Connors and Larissa Crummer came into some criticism for missed chances, but 15 goals between them is a good return over 14 games.

Brisbane Roar were mostly undone by conceding late goals throughout the year. As with Canberra United, some minor changes could improve the side significantly.

Jamilla Rankin’s emergence as a quality central defender is a bonus for the club and they have brought through two very promising young goalkeepers in Isabella Shuttleworth and Mia Bailey.

**Above:** Brisbane Roar players and fans together post-match to farewell Katrina Gorry. **Photo:** Brisbane Roar.

Brisbane Roar were always worth watching this season, this last game was another example of that. It was not a successful season, but it was a memorable one and they have more than earned a rest after three games in the last week and half.

Teams: BRISBANE ROAR (4-3-3): Shuttleworth, Rasschaert, Haffenden, Rankin, Tathem, Palmer, Norrie, Gorry, Hecher, Crummer, Connors. Substitutes: Bailey (GK), Kitano, Margraf, McElligott, Stamatopoulos.

Scorers: Crummer 13′, Norrie 64′, McElligott 90′.

CANBERRA UNITED (4-3-3): Lincoln, Ilijoski, Keir, Haran, Vidmar, Hughes, Robinne, Maher, Toby, Heyman, Middleton. Substitutes: Caspers, Espositio (GK), Grove, Karrys-Stahl.

Scorers: Heyman 67′, 72′, 88.

Referee: Rebecca Mackie.

Attendance: 875.

Victory Vikings: Bringing People Together (With Homer)

Above: The Victory Vikings’ famous mascot Homer is taught to play the drums by Melbourne Victory players. Photo: Victory Vikings.

For this week’s #MidweekDub feature, Simon from Melbourne Victory’s A-League Women fans group, Victory Vikings spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about the club’s season, crazy schedule, and thoughts ahead of the Finals (9/3/22).

Melbourne Victory’s Active Support Group, the Victory Vikings have their roots in a discussion in France during the 2019 Women’s World Cup as Simon explains.

“We were formed as a direct result of our experience at the World Cup in France in 2019. Some of us met over there and had huge fun being part of the Matildas Active Support at Matildas games.

“The night before the England v Norway quarter-final in Le Havre, we got chatting to some Portland Thorns fans who were part of the Rose City Riveters and over the course of a few beers decided it’d be fun to form a group when we got back to Australia. So shortly before the new season started in 2019/20, we put a call out on Facebook for any Victory fans wanting to join us.”

The Victory Vikings have also fostered a positive relationship with the club, which has ensured special access and dialogue.

“They help us out with ensuring we can get our drum and banners into the ground each week,” Simon revealed. “They also help us out when we go to away games by letting opposition clubs know we’re coming so again we don’t have any issues getting our drum etc into the ground.

“They’re also happy to meet with us and discuss any concerns or thoughts we have about the future direction of support at home games etc. and in return, we help them out with things like volunteering our time to appear in the membership advertisement that was made for this season.”

Active Support Groups in many clubs in the A-League Women are a key part of driving the atmosphere at stadiums around Australia. Simon highlights what a typical matchday is like at a Victory match.

“First, we have to make sure Homer isn’t too hungover from the night before and if he is, trying to fix this (see below!) Then it’s about going through our checklist to make sure we have everything we need ahead of the game – megaphone, banners, drum, camera etc.

“We’ll be messaging each other all morning to gauge our confidence levels/mood before the game. We’ll also be busy keeping an eye on social media for any news and of course posting things ourselves to build the hype. As we’re playing home games at AAMI Park this season we usually meet up at the pub a couple of hours before the game starts for a couple of quiet nerve settlers and then head to the ground just in time for when the gates open.

“Once inside it’s all systems go in setting up our banners and the drum, having a chat to others as they come along about what their predictions are.”

Victory Vikings’ Homer ‘mascot’ is a famous part of the A-League Women scene. Simon takes up the story of how it all began.

**Above:** Fans, Players and Staff – The Victory Vikings aim to bring everyone together. **Photo:** Victory Vikings.

One of our Homers was a gift to one of the members of our group from their nephew as they knew what a massive Simpsons fan they were. The other Homer belongs to another member of our group. Prior to the first game of last season as a spur-of-the-moment decision, they decided to take Homer with them for a laugh as we’re all huge Simpsons fans.

“Initially, we decided it’d be fun to have a photo taken with Homer and the player of the match. Last season we flew up to the Gold Coast for the game against Brisbane and after the game, player Amy Jackson asked us where Homer was as we hadn’t brought him with us. We assured her he’d be back for our trip to Adelaide the following week as we were driving so she asked us to post updates on Instagram of his journey along the way and it just grew from there.

“The photos we do of him and the players is because we’re all Simpsons obsessives and it’s something that brings us a lot of joy. It’s also an easy way of generating engagement which in turn will help us grow. As for anyone we regret not getting a photo of him with yet, it’s a tie between Kayla Morrison and Angie Beard.”

Not surprisingly, the players warmly welcome and recognize all the efforts that the Victory Vikings put in.

“Our relationship with the players is really strong,” Simon said. “They’ve really embraced us and especially love all the Homer content we do. They’re always happy to stop and have a chat with us after the game, pose for photos win lose or draw. The coaching staff are also great at engaging with us, Jeff (Hopkins, head coach) is really great at coming over to us after a bad loss (especially at an away game) to say thanks for coming which is really good as if that was us we’d probably be wanting to go and bury our head in the sand.”

With the Finals campaign about to start and Victory facing an eliminator at in-form Adelaide United this weekend, Simon outlined how he’s seen things this season.

“This season has been its usual chaotic self. Sydney being top is no surprise as they always have quality squads and consistency in the playing group as well. We’re still trying to figure out how good Melbourne City is, but it’s massively annoying that they’re strong again this season after only a one-season blip.

“We’ve been decimated by injuries – it started when Melina Ayres injured her hamstring during the pre-season and carried on into the first game when Kayla Morrison went down with an ACL. Also because of Covid, the draw didn’t do us any favours as we had to play City and Brisbane twice in the first five rounds. It’s always really hard when that happens as you don’t get much chance to analyse what worked/what didn’t before you play them again.”

Into the New Year, Melbourne Victory were impacted by Covid which led to a number of games being postponed. The consequence was a spell of playing seven games in 21 days to ensure they completed all their scheduled matches before the Finals. The consequences of an already injury-hit side were far-reaching.

“The schedule in second half of season was ridiculous,” Simon reflects. “Players were coming off exhausted and then having to do it again in a few days. As fans, we care deeply about players’ welfare so was hard to watch. It seemed like we could never catch a break with injuries which made it worse.”

In the end, Melbourne Victory’s hopes of a place in the Finals came down to a straight fight with Perth Glory for fourth place which went right down to the wire on the final day of the season. Perth needed to defeat Wellington Phoenix and hope Canberra United defeated Victory at AAMI Park. Glory were comfortably ahead against Wellington. In Melbourne it was far from comfortable as Simon explains.

“The battle with Perth was a slow burn but then became increasingly stressful in the final round, we’d be panicking every time Canberra got the ball.”

With the Finals getting underway this weekend, Melbourne Victory travel to Adelaide United for the right to take on Sydney FC or cross-city rivals Melbourne City for a place in the Grand Final.

Simon is not sure what to expect. “It’s hard to get a read on Finals as injuries mean we’ve not been able to build much momentum. Our best is good enough to beat anyone and our key players are Claudia Bunge, Amy Jackson Alex Chidiac, and Melina Ayres. The last time we played away against Adelaide wasn’t a great day (Victory lost 3-0 a fortnight ago) so avenge that and anything else is a bonus.”

Holly Caspers Reviews Her Season At Canberra

Above: Canberra United’s Holly Caspers (left) in action against Melbourne City at Viking Park. Photo: Canberra United.

Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard Canberra United’s Holly Caspers review her first season in the A-League Women with the club, and how her team’s long search for a win has helped to develop her resilience (8/3/22).

Canberra United’s 22-year-old forward Holly Caspers is about to complete her first season in the national capital.

Coming to the club in pre-season after a successful NPL campaign with Sydney University, Caspers has been up close and personal with two of the competition’s most experienced strikers in Ash Sykes and Michelle Heyman. It’s safe to say she has learned a lot.

“It’s amazing playing with Ash and Michelle. They all have different qualifies. Ash’s ability to get in behind is incredible. Michelle’s touch and vision on the ball is insane. Learning off of them and Allira (Toby) has been amazing.”

Another major area of learning for Caspers came with having to ride the storm of Canberra’s long wait for their first win this season. Whilst it was not an enjoyable experience, it was one that the striker feels will stand her in good stead in the future.

“Not getting a win for a long time was really disheartening. It’s not something I’ve been used to. At Sydney Uni in the NPL, we had a strong team and won a lot. That losing streak was different and it tested resilience.

“The team came together well to fight. You have to rely on the experienced players to drive the team in that situation. Michelle, Grace (Maher), and Laura Hughes have really driven us this campaign. Now finishing the campaign strong has been positive now. It’s important to finish on a high point.”

Canberra’s clash with Brisbane is long-delayed after being postponed due to the recent horrendous weather conditions in Queensland. Caspers has fond memories from the previous time the teams played just before Christmas.

“When we last played Brisbane, it was a tough game, being 3-1 down in the last 10 minutes before getting a draw (Caspers’ stoppage-time goal made it 3-3). It will be interesting to see how better we are now and how we do.”

The striker reflected how quickly the season has passed and what she wants to take out of the last four months.

“Honestly, the time has flown by. Time flies when you are having fun. Pre-season lasted for ever, but now the last game against Brisbane on Thursday has come round so quick. I’ve really enjoyed it.

“My soccer has really improved. It has been a new experience moving down to Canberra. I especially enjoyed that game at Melbourne Victory last week, getting a draw, playing at AAMI Park was amazing and I played my socks off!”

“I want to play A-League Women again and I’ve found what happens when I push myself. When you are the most experienced player in the room you never learn anything, so I’ve learned a lot from Michelle and Ash that I can take back to Sydney Uni in the NPL now.”

Matildas Turn To Townsville

Above: Townsville’s QCB Stadium, which will host the first of Australia’s two matches against New Zealand next month. Photo: Queensland Government.

Just under a month before the Football Ferns come to play Australia twice, the venue for the first encounter was revealed today, and it is a brand new city for the team to showcase their talents in (9/3/22).

The opening match of Australia’s international series with New Zealand will take place at Townsville’s 25,000 seater QCB Stadium on Friday 8th April.

This will be the first time the Australian women’s national team has ever played in Townsville, with the match set to be the first football fixture to be played at world-class QCB Stadium, home of the North Queensland Cowboys NRL side, since it opened in 2020.

Speaking about the historic announcement, Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, said: “Football Australia is delighted to be bringing Australia’s favourite sporting team, the Matildas, to Townsville in what will be a night of firsts for the team, the city, and the region,” Johnson said.

“North Queensland and Far North Queensland has a rich history of producing players for our men’s national teams, and we know that female participation continues to soar in these regions, so it’s our hope by playing this women’s international in Townsville we will enable these participants to watch their footballing heroes in action and inspire a new generation of Commonwealth Bank Matildas.

“With just under 500 days to go, it’s our vision to provide the football community and as many Australians as possible with the opportunity to watch the Commonwealth Bank Matildas on home soil while we continue to build towards the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia & New Zealand 2023.

“We appreciate the support of the Queensland Government, Tourism and Events Queensland and Townsville City Council in partnering with us to bring the Matildas to Townsville for the very first time.”

The last time the two sides met was at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with Australia coming out on top with a 2-1 victory in the opening group match.

Queensland Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Commonwealth Bank Matildas and the Football Ferns would make football history in Townsville.

“The women’s international in Townsville will be a game of firsts,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“It will be the first time the Matildas have played in North Queensland and the code’s first match at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium. Queensland is seeing solid growth in women’s football and the number of girls taking up the game.

**Above:** QCB Stadium, the new home ground of North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL, and venue for Australia’s first game against New Zealand next month. **Photo:** Sporting News

“By bringing international football to Townsville we can show young North Queenslanders what’s possible and inspire them to bring their best game and stay active.

Mayor of Townsville, Cr Jenny Hill said the hosting of the Commonwealth Bank Matildas was a real coup for the city.

“Australia and New Zealand will host the FIFA Women’s World Cup next year, so to have each country’s national football team play an international match in Townsville ahead of the World Cup is a major coup for the city,” Cr Hill said.

“Council is proud to throw its support behind bringing these two national-level women’s football teams to Townsville. To have the team back on home soil for the first time in 2022 and playing in Townsville for the first time will be great for our city’s economy and for diehard football fans across the state.

“During the past year Townsville has had plenty of practice showing support for world class sporting matches at Queensland Country Bank Stadium, with State of Origin and the Rugby Championship both hosted in our city. Council is already looking forward to activating the city to welcome the teams and supporters to the north.”

Tickets to this historic encounter start at $69 family, $26 adults, $21 concessions, and $16 children excluding transaction fees.

The pre-sale for Football Account holders will commence at 10.00am (AEST), Thursday 10 March, with the General Public tickets window opening at 11.00am (AEST), Monday 14 March via Ticketmaster.

$1 (plus GST) from every ticket will be donated to the ParaMatildas, Australia’s first national team for women and girls with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury or symptoms from stroke.

The second match in the two-match series will see the Commonwealth Bank Matildas in action on Tuesday, 12 April 2022 at Canberra’s GIO Stadium.

Lionesses Outline Pre-Euros Preparations

Above: Lauren Hemp in action for England in their recent Arnold Clark Cup match against Spain in Norwich. She will be a key part of the squad for the forthcoming friendlies announced today. Photo: Hannah Parnell for Impetus.

(9/3/22)

England’s final preparations before UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 will include two home internationals against fellow tournament contenders in June.

The Lionesses, unbeaten in nine matches under Sarina Wiegman, will take on Belgium at Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Molineux Stadium – scene of last month’s Arnold Clark Cup triumph – on Thursday 16 June. England will then welcome the Netherlands, the reigning European champions, to Leeds United’s Elland Road on Friday 24 June. Both matches are set to kick off at 8pm.

Tickets for both fixtures will go on sale exclusively to My England Football members from 1pm on Wednesday 9 March via www.englandfootball.com/members. General sale will begin from 1pm on Thursday 10 March, with tickets available on: thefa.com/tickets.

An overseas fixture against opposition to be confirmed will then be played before Wiegman’s squad return to England to begin the last preparations for the opening match of the UEFA European Championship against Austria at Old Trafford, Manchester on Wednesday 6 July.

**Above:** Elland Road, the home of Leeds United which will stage the Lionesses’ friendly with Netherlands in June. **Photo:** Leeds United.

Speaking about today’s fixture announcements, England head coach Sarina Wiegman said: “Although at the moment we are fully focused on the two upcoming April qualifiers, with the Euros approaching you also feel the excitement growing. These matches against Belgium and the Netherlands will be just the challenge we need in the last weeks of our work to be ready for the Euros.

“I hope we can continue the progress we have shown so far and build on the strong team spirit and togetherness that we will need to have in the final tournament. And of course, playing Netherlands, and seeing so many familiar faces again who Arjan and I have worked with for many years gives a special touch to a game against good opposition.

“I am excited to be going back to Wolverhampton. We were given a tremendous welcome against Germany. I am also very pleased to have the match in Leeds. I know it is an area that has a big passion for football and I hope we can give the fans plenty of excitement at both matches.”

England have also confirmed the Lionesses will be based at the national football centre St. George’s Park in Staffordshire in the build-up to the two warm-up fixtures and the opening match of the Euros.

The June warm-up fixtures will follow two 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers away to North Macedonia and Northern Ireland on 8 and 12 April respectively with the Lionesses top of qualifying Group D on the road to Australia and New Zealand.

The View From France

Above: Fleury goalkeeper Katriina Talaslahti makes the decisive save in her team’s penalty shoot win over Paris FC. Photo: Anne Talaslahti.

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the France Cup 2022 Quarter-Finals (8/3/22).

Paris Saint-Germain won 3-1 at Montpellier. Paris SG made a serious game and passed this round easily. No surprise, and the best team won. Goals for Paris SG from Kheira Hamraoui (35), Grace Geyoro (51), Marie-Antoinette Katoto (63). Goal for Montpellier from Maëlle Lakrar (72).

Fleury needed a penalty shoot-out to overcome Paris FC after a 1-1 draw. Even if Paris FC scored first in the 20^th minute, Fleury never stopped thinking that they could change the course of the game and equalized at the 59^th minute. Katriina Talaslahti needs priase for her performance after a return from injury (cut on the right index finger), as she saved Paris FC’s final penalty to seal the win for her team. Goal for Paris FC from Gaëtane Thiney (20). Goal for Fleury from Ewelina Kamczyk (59).

Penalty Shoot-Out: Fleury: Dominika Grabowska – Goal (0-1), Paris FC: Gaëtane Thiney – Goal (1-1), Fleury: Marine Dafeur – Goal (1-2), Paris FC: Julie Soyer – Missed (1-2) Fleury: Ewelina Kamczyk – Goal (1-3), Paris FC: Théa Greboval – Goal (2-3), Fleury: Julie Piga – Missed (2-3), Paris FC: Mathilde Bourdieu – Goal (3-3), Fleury: Jeannette Grace Ngock Yango – Goal (3-4), Paris FC: Daphne Marie Corboz – Saved by Katriina Talaslahti (3-4).

FFYAA (Football Féminin Yzeure Allier Auvergne) won 1-0 at Rodez AFF (Rodez Aveyron Football Féminine). This game between two teams from the France D2 (second division) saw the team fourth in D2 Group B standing win against the team first in the standing with only one goal scored in the first quarter of the game. Even playing at 10 against eleven during the last 30 minutes, Yzeure kept the score to 1-0 up to the end of the game. Goal for Yzeure from Seynabou Mbengue (12). Red card for Yzeure Mafille Woedikou (64).

Second Division Nantes defeated D1 Arkema side Reims on penalties after a 0-0 draw away to the higher division side. Even with 8 minutes of stoppage time at the end of the second half, none of both teams scored a single goal. The team first in the D2 Group A standing eliminated the team seventh in D1 Arkema. Penalties shoot-out: Nantes: Océane Ringenbach – Missed (0-0) Reims: Julie Pasquereau – Missed (0-0) Nantes: Pauline Dhaeyer – Goal (0-1) Reims: Océane Deslandes – Missed (0-1) Nantes: Margaux Bueno – Goal (0-2) Reims: Chloé Philippe – Missed (0-2) Nantes: Thelma Eninger – Goal (0-3)