Above: Ashlee Hincks smashes home for AFC Wimbledon against Harlow Town at Plough Lane yesterday. Photo: Glyn Roberts.
AFC Wimbledon marked their last game at Plough Lane this season with a swashbuckling 7-1 win over Harlow Town yesterday in the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East.
It didn’t take long for Kelly Highman to open the scoring as she headed home emphatically in the eighth minute after a cross by Ashlee Hincks. There was better to follow as Hincks turned from provider to scorer in stunning style with a fantastic shot from 25 yards out.
With the Dons 2-0 up, Harlow had their best spell of the game as they searched for a win that would ensure that they avoid relegation. However, fine saves by Lauren Allen denied the visitors and it remained 2-0 heading into half-time, Rebecca Sargent heading against the crossbar twice at the other end.
Wimbledon started the second-half strongly, aiming to reassert their dominance and take control of the game once again. With only seven second-half minutes gone, Hincks got her second goal of the game by taking the ball around the keeper, before rolling it into the empty net. Less than two minutes later, it was 4-0 with Katie Stanley getting in on the act.
The goals just kept on coming, Hincks completing her hat-trick with a composed finish, which meant that three goals had been scored in just 10 minutes. Despite a goal for the visitors, the Dons were not to be denied in search of more goals and Hincks scored with a cheeky lob, before Chloe Sampson rounded off the scoring.
Speaking after the game, El Sueno Tequila player of the match Ashlee Hincks said: “We had a bit of a disappointing result a couple of weeks ago against Harlow, so it was nice to finish the season at Plough Lane and get some goals in front of a good crowd.”
Wimbledon play their final away league game next Sunday at Norwich City who will need to win to stay on the right side of the drop zone. Dons follow that up with the big FA Women’s National League Plate Final against Nottingham Forest, which is being played at Solihull Moors FC with an 11.00 am kick-off. AFC Wimbledon complete their season against Cambridge United at Carshalton Athletic FC on the 1st May with a 2.00 pm kick-off.
Table From: FA Women’s National League.
Teams: AFC WIMBLEDON: Allen, Oliver, Highman (Fowler), Sargent (Taylor), Billinghman (Childerhouse), Mann (Russell), Stow, Donovan, Stanley (Carter), Hincks, Sampson.
Ben Gilby provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Western Australia NPL Women’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other games along with photos (11/4/22).
Above: Balcatta Etna (blue) tussle for possession at home to Murdoch University Melville. Photo: JASP Photography.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Balcatta Etna 0-1 Murdoch University Melville
Last year’s top side Murdoch University Melville came out winners in a fiercely fought encounter of few real chances at a wet Grindleford Park.
It was a real test of the new look Murdoch side who came into the game on the back of an opening day draw with last year’s bottom team Subiaco. Balcatta had a tough baptism to the new campaign away at Perth SC which saw them go down 2-0.
MUM started the strongest and forces the opening corner with just over 60 seconds played. They also called home goalkeeper Gaby Dal Busco into action early on when Rachel Gillies’ free-kick from the left was met by the head of Poppie Hooks, who played A-League Women football for Perth Glory this season at the age of 16. Dal Busco gathered comfortably.
The early torrential rain subdued after 10 minutes and Balcatta settled, beginning to assert some assertive play. Cass Harvey put in a long cross for Tayna Campos whose effort deflected out for a corner. Monique D’Opera, who looked composed and tidy on the ball throughout also came close with a free-kick that went into the side-netting.
However, despite the home side’s growth, it was Murdoch University Melville who took the lead just before the break. Gillies took a throw on the half way line which led to Molly Bolton playing a crossfield ball out to the right. The ball came in and was met by a flick header by Hooks to put the visitors ahead.
Above: Poppie Hooks (on ground) is mobbed by her team-mates after putting Murdoch University Melville ahead at Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography
The second half saw the return of the intense bursts of rain. Balcatta needed to grab the momentum, but real chances remained at a premium.
With an hour gone, Monique Prinsloo was rewarded for her efforts in the build-up to receive a return pass which put the Balcatta player in with Murdoch keeper Monique Todd, but the latter gathered.
As the half developed, the influence of MUM’s Meghan Hulsman grew along the right. Hulsman was dangerous with her runs, but also with deft footwork, passes and crosses. The wide player also created an opportunity for herself when cutting in from the right, but was denied by a superb diving save from Dal Busco.
For the home side, Tahlia D’Opera was an absolute workhorse, busy, battling hard and putting herself about both defensively but also on occasion coming forward along the left.
Above: Eyes on the ball – Murdoch University Melville advance against Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography,
With a quarter of an hour remaining, Balcatta won a corner. Campos rose and the ball was recycled by substitute Mia Yeo for Tahlia D’Opera on the edge of the box whose shot was well handled by Todd in the face of the onrushing hoards.
Each side had one remaining opportunity, both in the dying stages. Samantha Mathers broke clean through for Murdoch but Dal Busco came out to meet her and slid the ball away expertly.
Balcatta’s was a golden opportunity three minutes into stoppage time when a ball in from the right by Prinsloo went over Todd and found Yeo at the back post who chested the ball down, but it was somehow swept away on the goal-line by Murdoch University Melville to clinch the win.
Balcatta has had a tough two fixtures to open the campaign and although yet to win or score, will certainly come good very soon. They will also hope that what at the time looked like a painful hit on Lauren Continibali won’t prove to be too serious ahead of next week’s trip to Subiaco.
Teams: BALCATTA ETNA: Dal Busco, M. D’Opera, T. D’Opera, Harvey, Campos, Godding, Jorquera, Prinsloo, Doust, Continibali, Veroni. Substitutes: Davis, Hayes, Yeo, Murray, Alberts.
Above: Hyundai NTC (yellow) battle it out with Perth SC on Friday night. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Hyundai NTC came from behind with less than 15 minutes to go to defeat Perth SC 3-2 at E&D Litis Stadium on Friday night. Perth went ahead with just two minutes on the clock when Jaime Duncanson volleyed in. The scores were level before the half-hour when Olivia Trueman charged down Perth goalkeeper Rebecca Bennett’s attempted clearance to equalize.
Perth SC re-established their lead just after the hour mark as a missed attempted clearance from the NTC keeper allowed Duncanson in to pounce again.
But the NTC, who had most of the offensive play, mounted a dramatic late comeback. With 13 minutes left, Louise Tana hit a 20-yard sensation into the net. On 83 minutes, Grace Johnstone curled in the winner directly from a corner on the left.
Perth RedStar ran out comfortable 6-1 winners at Curtin University also on Friday night. Hannah Insch gave them the lead with 12 minutes played when she rolled an effort into the net with ease. Yet, just before the break, Curtin levelled after winning a challenge with RedStar keeper Shivani Battaglia to slide the ball in.
That was as good as it got for the home side as RedStar ran riot in the second half along the right and Larissa Walsh benefitted by putting her team back in front. It was 3-1 shortly afterwards as Jacinta Coleman’s effort came back off the bar and eventually was worked for Renee Leota to volley home.
In the closing stages, Perth RedStar added another two as Akira Mogridga fired high into the net and Coleman rolled in the fifth easily at the far post.
Above: There was plenty to celebrate for Fremantle City at Subiaco yesterday. Photo: NPL.
Fremantle City came back from Subiaco with the points after a 4-1 victory at Rosalie Park to maintain their 100% start to the campaign.
Freo took the lead with 13 minutes gone when Matilda Boyle headed home. But Subi showed their mettle and levelled just after the half-hours when Frankie Murray’s free-kick on the right was touched in by Chelsie Whinchcombe.
Two goals in three minutes in the second half put the game firmly in Fremantle’s favour with Mikayla Lyons hitting both low into the net. Kayla McCulloch sealed the deal four minutes from time.
P
W
D
L
F
A
Pts
GD
Perth RedStar
2
2
0
0
11
1
6
+10
Fremantle City
2
2
0
0
6
1
6
+5
Murdoch University Melville
2
1
1
0
1
0
4
+1
Perth SC
2
1
0
1
4
3
3
+1
Hyundai NTC
2
1
0
1
3
7
3
-4
Subiaco
2
0
1
1
1
4
1
-3
Balcatta Etna
2
0
0
2
0
3
0
-3
Curtin University
2
0
0
2
1
8
0
-7
Round Three Fixtures: Hyundai NTC v Murdoch University Melville, Perth RedStar v Fremantle City, Perth SC v Curtin University, Subiaco v Balcatta Etna.
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPL Women’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other games along with photos (11/4/22).
Above:Action from Calder United (white) v Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Calder United 4-0 Football Victoria Emerging
The game of the week in round two was Calder United’s return to form. Calder are one of the most successful women’s only clubs in Victoria. They are never easybeats but are missing some big names from previous seasons.
Polly Doran, Catherine Zimmerman, Harriet Withers, and Laura Spiranovic are not currently with the squad. Doran made her name with Calder before enhancing it at Victory. She has continued her career in the New South Wales NPL for this season at least.
FV Emerging were one of the most impressive sides last season. As a development squad, it is inevitable that they will lose players each season. Two of last year’s stars, Alana Murphy and Caitlin Karic are currently in the Young Matildas camp.
After a goalless draw in round one, Calder came out of the blocks firing this week. Ava Groba opened the scoring in the sixth minute. FV Emerging had controlled possession in the opening minutes but a Calder counterattack resulted in Groba cutting in past two defenders and finishing in the top corner.
It was another counterattack and another long ball to Groba that doubled Calder’s lead. This time, she slowed down, then quickly changed pace to beat the defender on the outside. Her first goal was on her right foot, this one on the left. They both found the same corner of the net.
Above: An aerial battle between Calder United and Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).
Isabella Accardo seemed to have done everything right. She kept Groba on her left foot, and did not lunge in, but the quick acceleration and finish were perfect.
The FV Emerging defender almost made amends straight away. A defence-splitting pass from deep created a chance in front of goal, but it could not be turned in.
Calder continued to pile on the goals in the second half. Adriana Taranto raced in on goal and eventually, the ball fell to Stacy Papadopoulos who was bundled over in the box.
Taranto made no mistake from the second opportunity in a minute and buries the penalty kick to make it 3-0 with half an hour left to play.
In a day full of memorable goals, the fourth might have been the best. Again Papadopoulos was involved. The attacker had been dangerous since coming off the bench and she teased the defender on the wing before laying the ball back to Alanna Cerne.
Above: Calder United on the front foot against Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).
Cerne took a tough and a few strides forward from deep. She lined up her shot and fired it into the net from 30 yards with enough power to beat Hrehoresin with an early goal of the season contender.
The game ended 4-0 with Calder the much more clinical of the two sides. FV Emerging were attacking and industrious but were caught out by quick attacks by Mark Torcaso’s side.
Sarah Cain was one of Emerging’s best. In a central midfield role, she broke up play and continued to move the ball forward. The young team was only missing some composure in the final third. It was the only thing missing from their performance in an attacking sense. Either the final pass or the finish went astray.
Calder United were not dominant for the entire game but had control of the play even without the ball. Emma Rober’s was composed in midfield and Cori Cain’s long passing was the key to many attacks.
The 4-0 scoreline might seem unfair to FV Emerging, but Calder took their chances and the home side might be disappointed they did not add to the tally.
The confidence that this win provides will come in handy next week when they face the undefeated and untied Bulleen Lions.
FOOTBALL VICTORIA EMERGING: Hrehoresin, Lohrey, Varley(Beidis 74′), Richards, Sewards, Vlaeminck (Bulic 56′), Curtis, Kilderry, Brown (Liacopoulos 90′), Cain, Accardo, Cortellino.
Referee: Shab Roshan.
Round Two Round-Up:
The second round of the NPLW saw Bulleen Lions continue on their winning ways. Tiffany Eliadis scored first to set them on their way to a 2-0 victory over Box Hill United to put them at the top of the table with Rosie Rodger adding the clincher.
Above: Action from Heidelberg United (yellow) against Alamein. Photo: Sally Tsalikidis.
After a big opening round win, Heidelberg United fell 2-1 to Alamein and a Kat Nikpour brace. Danielle Wise scored for Heidelberg.
Above: Tijan McKenna (blue), scorer of South Melbourne’s second goal in action at Bayside United this weekend. Photo: Bayside United.
Across town, BaysideUnited drew with South Melbourne 2-2. Julia Budiongo put Bayside ahead before the half hour, but Akeisha Sandhu levelled with half-time in sight. It is an unusually slow start to the season by the traditional power club South Melbourne, but Tijan McKenna added another moment to her growing highlight reel with a goal to put them ahead five minutes into the second half. Amanda Stevenson levelled matters just before the hour mark.
Artwork: International Surrey Football. Photo: Girl Tiny Shooter.
International Surrey Football this morning announced that they will be hosting the Afghanistan Women’s Development Team in a friendly fixture on Sunday 29th May at the Meadowbank Stadium in Dorking.
The match which will also mark our Surrey Women’s first full debut since playing their opening trial game against the University of Surrey in 2021 which was won 8-1 by the county team. The game in Dorking will also be Surrey’s first game where fans will be able to attend and support the team on such an important occasion.
The Afghanistan Women’s Development team is made up of players forced to leave their homes in Afghanistan following the fall of Kabul to Taliban forces and the withdrawal of NATO forces in August 2021. The team had been planning to compete in the under-23 Central Asian Football Federation’s women’s championship, unfortunately, those plans fell apart suddenly with the Taliban’s quick advance on the Afghan capital in scenes many of us will remember.
This event placed all Afghan women’s players at immediate risk, with many players encouraged to destroy their own kit to protect themselves and not be identifiable as footballers. Fortunately, many of the players and their families were able to safely leave Afghanistan, the women’s first team, now based in Melbourne, Australia, and recently admitted to the regional Victoria football competition with assistance from A-League side Melbourne Victory FC.
Above: Members of the Afghanistan Women’s Team. Photovia: Surrey International Football.
Meanwhile, the Afghanistan Women’s Development team were initially unable to be evacuated to the UK. The team went into hiding on their journey to Kabul’s airport. They were at the airport when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a gate on the perimeter, killing 170 Afghan nationals as well as 13 US service members. It wasn’t until they had managed to safely cross the border into neighbouring Pakistan that they were able to leave for the UK with the help of Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani that the team were able to reach the UK and are able to train at Leeds United FC.
The Afghanistan Development team recently enjoyed a trip to London with a game against the UK Parliamentary Women’s team with assistance from Amnesty International and played at Dulwich Hamlet and included a visit to Westminster. The Afghan team won every game they played against the British MPs.
The plan to bring the team to Surrey isn’t over just yet, with travel and accommodation costs to cover for what is being planned as a two-day trip for the Afghan players, International Surrey Football will be running a crowdfunding campaign, as well as seeking donations, to help contribute towards the travel and accommodation expenses for their stay in Dorking.
As well as individual donations, larger corporate donors can contact International Surrey Football directly to discuss sponsorship opportunities as well as to help cover the various costs for travel and accommodation.
Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from the head coaches of Australia and New Zealand, Tony Gustavsson and Jitka Klimková ahead of tomorrow’s second game between the two nations in Canberra (11/4/22).
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson at today’s media conference. Photo: Football Australia.
Tony Gustavsson has said that he is focussing on his team “converting chances when they come” ahead of tomorrow’s friendly with New Zealand in Canberra.
The Matildas dominated the first game against the Football Ferns in Townsville on Friday but had to wait until stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to turn a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 win.
“I don’t want things to change too much for us because I think we played really well on Friday. What we have looked at a lot though is converting chances when they come. We should have been three or four-nil up at half-time. Almost 90% of our attacks in that game ended inside the final third.
“Another pleasing thing was the different ways we were creating chances – central combinations, transitional movements, longer passing sessions, and set plays.”
Gustavsson revealed that as well as regular training, there have been a lot of meetings with players ahead of tomorrow’s game.
“There have been further Asian Cup reviews and reviews of the first New Zealand game.”
In terms of reflecting on the disappointing Asian Cup campaign, the Matildas head coach said: “We had seven players with COVID over Christmas and 12 players playing zero minutes into the weeks leading into it. In the Korea game, we had a 45% reduction in sprints in the second half which impacted the way we want to play.
“In the Korea game, we had some good moments against them in the first half, but the second half it got a bit nervy and we started playing long balls. We also created lots of chances but did not convert. Games are won and lost like that. In the tournament, we conceded only two goals. One against Thailand near the end which was a lack of game management near the end and the free-kick in the wide-area against Korea. Those are things we need to guard against.”
Above: Making a point to the media today, Tony Gustavsson. Photo: Football Australia.
Gustavsson addressed the criticism he is getting in some quarters for results and selections, asking for fairness and understanding the process that he was employed to oversee.
“Being a head coach – there is always criticism. Honestly, I like a debate and there will always be opinions about players selected and tactics. You just need to be fair and educated about what we are doing.
“When I came into the job I mentioned our stats in results against the top sides in the world and from 2011-2020 and you will see bad stats, to be honest. We said we need to play them more to be prepared next time. Therefore, the results in those friendlies may not make expectations. I think we’ve played too many lower-ranked opponents to prepare for tournaments before.
“The other thing is to connect to the Gap report about having more fringe players getting exposed. On average, we have fielded 2.4 new players per decade. Last year we fielded 14 debutants. If you combine that with playing some of the world’s top teams, it’s natural that results will be hard. I’m not saying that to try to protect myself, I’m just saying it is part of a process, a bigger journey.”
Australia’s head coach ended by highlighting what he particularly wants to see from his team tomorrow.
“Tomorrow is a different game and New Zealand will show learnings from the first one too. I want to see how fast we can play – the international game is getting quicker all the time and I want to see what we can do.
“The other focus point for me is in defence. There were times on Friday when we got away with being below 100% at the back. We need to fix that. We can be hurt against the top nations in the world if we are not focussed all the time.
“One of the biggest victories we have now is that we have 100% availability for tomorrow’s game. It makes it tough for me to decide who starts and who will be the game-changers.”
Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková talking to the media today. Photo: NZ Football.
New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková believes that her team are over the devastating way they lost a 1-0 lead against Australia in the first match on Friday.
“The team have recovered. Our sessions in Canberra have had quality and a lot of smiles. We are planning to compete in the same way and obviously have things to improve on. We’re glad to have another chance to play against strong opposition.
“If we see the amount of grit and determination every time we step onto the pitch, I will be really pleased. We can control the game better and keep the ball better no doubt, but we are going through those processes and focussing on them. I was very proud how we fought on Friday.”
Klimková had mixed news about player availability for tomorrow’s game starting with the worst possible outcome for Ria Percival.
“Ria has gone back to her club, Tottenham. She is so important for us. It is a long-term injury, an ACL injury to her left knee. Depending on the assessment she will out for the rest of the year.”
The Ferns though are hopeful of being able to call on Rebekah Stott who missed the game in Townsville. “We have to be careful. There are priorities with players’ health. However, it looks promising. If she is ready, she is always going to play. We think Stotty will step on to the field. She will help us to keep the ball better.”
New Zealand’s head coach highlighted the improvement areas that see is looking for from her team from Friday’s game to tomorrow’s.
“Set piece defending is one of our real work-ons after the first game. Along with this is the opportunity to play to win, to redeem ourselves. We want to show that grit from Friday. If we start to be consistent with that competitiveness and connection on the field, that is the way our future will look like. We need to keep hold of our friend, the ball more. That starts from trusting each other in possession.”
Klimková’s slightly longer-term aims are all about getting the Football Ferns in the right place for a home World Cup.
“The main thing we need is to play more games, keep the process and belief that this team can achieve its first wins in the World Cup and get out of the group. It won’t happen in one or two international windows. It is what we will keep working on for the rest of this year.
“What the players do outside of the window is important. We are making sure that players are continually pushed and learning ahead of July 2023.”
Above: The scene at College Meadow as Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers faced Sprowston. Sprowston’s Rosie Graham (16) is front of shot. Photo: Darrell Allen.
By Darrell Allen (8/4/22)
Two Norfolk Women and Girls League (NWGFL) Division One sides met on Wednesday night in the NWGFL Plate Cup Semi-Final. Due to lack of pitch availability this game was played on a neutral facility at College Meadow in Beccles, the home of Beccles Town Ladies who are a fellow Step Seven club in the NWGFL.
After an energetic team talk from manager Dean Leggett, Sprowston started the game on the front foot getting the ball down nicely and playing some good football and it was they who created the first big moment of the match when Emma Clarke thundered an amazing strike at goal that hit the under-side of the bar and bounced the right side of the line to give Sprowston the lead.
Sprowston were determined and looked most up for it in the initial phases of play to build on the lead but they could not find a second goal.
Dussindale got their own passing game going and Abbie Hutchin was the first to have any real opportunity of note for them when she put a great cross in but the Sprowston keeper Jade Knight was there to deal with it.
A game of you attack, we attack was in progress and a joy to watch as Vicky Leyer for Dussindale hit a great shot but it was parried by Knight and cleared. Siesha Humphries hit a shot too, but it was high and to the right of the Sprowston goal. Shanice Sutton was then fouled in the box but penalty appeals were waved away.
Dussindale managed to level the score as their period of pressure finally paid off as Vicky Leyer forced Sprowston into an error and slotted beyond keeper Knight and in to level the scores at 1-1.
Dussindale were in their groove, a wonderful free-kick was tipped over by Jade Knight but they had better luck when taking the lead after a clever ball was played across to Leyer from Calista Tink and Leya chipped it over the keeper and in.
Above: Sprowston boss Dean Leggett addresses his players at half-time. Photo: Darrell Allen.
A crowd of more than 40 was in attendance which was a good number considering both teams had to travel from Norfolk into Suffolk for this fixture. A brilliant game continued with Sprowston’s Courtney Leggett having a free-kick that went all the way through and straight at Cole in goal.
Sprowston’s effort, attitude and togetherness was outstanding as they continued to go toe to toe with Dussindale, who are regarded along with current league leaders Mulbarton as one of the best teams the NWGFL has to offer.
They seized their moment and levelled the score when they scored another impressive goal when Katie Fray hit a strike from distance that went over Cole’s head and into the net to make the scores level at 2-2 which it remained at the break.
Sprowston started the second half well, but couldn’t make the most of their early pressure as Dussindale gradually began to get a grip of the second half and after some excellent build up play it was Vicky Leyer again who scored to give Rovers the lead with a wonderful strike from distance to complete her hat trick.
Dussindale made it four from the spot. Shanice Sutton was through and brought down by Sprowston goalkeeper Jade Knight who was shown a red card. Lois Irving went in goal but there was no stopping Shanice Sutton who superbly dispatched the penalty to give Dussindale a two-goal lead.
With Rovers having the player advantage they dominated the possession in the late stages of the contest and Vicky Leyer added her fourth and Dussindale’s fifth with a smart finish across the keeper and in to round off the scoring.
Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers will now take part in the Norfolk Women and Girls League Plate Cup Final and will face either Caister or Freethorpe who play their Semi Final on Sunday 24th April at 1.00pm.
Player of the Match: Vicky Leyer (Dussindale and Hellesdon)
Impetus Ben Gilby was in the post-match media conferences and heard the views of Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson and midfielder Emily van Egmond plus New Zealand’s head coach Jitka Klimkováand goalkeeper Victoria Esson(8/4/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson, who saw plenty to be proud about in his Matildas team’s performance today. Photo: Football Australia.
Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson expressed his delight at The Matildas never-say-die effort which saw them score two goals in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to seal a 2-1 win over New Zealand in Townsville.
“I am so proud. It is all credit to the players. I was not surprised as I know the players’ belief and mindset. We panicked a bit against Korea in the Asian Cup in the second half, but that wasn’t the case today. It really impressed me that the players were not satisfied to get back to 1-1, they wanted to go out to get the win.”
Highlighting some of the aspects of the game that pleased him most, the Matildas head coach highlighted the quality of his team’s build-up.
“We felt we could do more in our build-up play after the Asian Cup to bring it back to what we saw at the Brazil game. Then think about the first half against the USA, we were losing, but the ability in build-up was good.”
“Also, Mini (Katrina Gorry) came in and gave us a great match and some great combination play. That’s another step in the right direction. I would have loved to have had Mini in the Asian Cup. I want to use her as a six due to her positioning and passing which is phenomenal. She can activate our central diamond and that’s great. But her defensive activity was brilliant. Her duels with Hannah Wilkinson were world-class.
“This was her first step back. We need to expose her now to top-ranked opposition where the pressure on us is high for 90 minutes.”
Gustavsson had pointed out in his pre-game media conference yesterday that he expected to see a lot of substitutions made during the game as a result of the late arrival of many of his players into camp from Europe. In the end, apart from Caitlin Foord coming on at the start of the second half, only two further changes were made with Tameka Yallop coming on with 12 minutes left and Cortnee Vine in stoppage time.
“We had multiple pre-planned subs planned for tonight with the jet-lag and well-being angle,” the Matildas head coach admitted, “but the live stats coming in showing the players physical output had our numbers much lower than normal. A player recommended to play just 60 minutes had figures way lower than expected, so the Sports Science people gave me the OK to keep them on.
“As a result of that, when we used the subs tonight, I wanted to do it tactically. Normally we have two days between games, now we have three days to recover so many of the players who played today would be ready to play again on Tuesday. We had a year of experimentation and looked at many players, now we need to narrow things down. It’s a balance to make.
“Sam (Kerr) had a limitation on her in terms of how long she would play, but the way we dominated, her stats meant she could stay on. She was tired, but always finds a way to find that extra edge. There is no coincidence that she is who she is and the fact that she is our captain.
“It says a lot about our players that some only arrived on Wednesday, but they are so determined to be here, part of the team, and put on the performance they did tonight.”
Above: Emily van Egmond pictured in action at the Asian Cup in January. Photo: Football Australia.
Australia midfielder Emily van Egmond who scored her country’s equalizing goal two minutes into stoppage time revealed that she never had any doubts that they would comeback.
“It shows the belief we have in the team. You can have 90% of the ball but not win, that’s the game, it’s about how you work and your mindset.”
The former West Ham United player highlighted the importance of Katrina Gorry in Australia’s performance today.
“It’s so good to have Mini back. She contributed immensely tonight. Playing with her is super fun. Having Mini there at six means I can play further forward. She was dominant in that six role. That allowed the rest of us to push on up-front.”
Above: Football Ferns head coach Jitka Klimková. Photo: NZ Football.
New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková felt nothing but pride in her team’s performance.
“We are still in that stage where our team is getting together. If we are going to play the way we played today, we all will be very proud of each other. I’m happy about the process, not about the result. For 90+2 minutes it was an unbelievable performance and I was a very proud coach.
“We will look at the whole game and how we performed and fought to the end. That is what we will take from the game. We have learned a lesson to keep fighting until the end. It is an unbelievable journey from our team. We are very proud.
“We know we were playing at the home of the Matildas. Our goal was not beating them, but how we play. We played to win and that is how we want to play in the future.”
Klimková was full of praise for her goalkeeper Victoria Esson who produced a number of outstanding saves throughout the game. “She is a quality keeper. She always focuses and when she has a chance she takes it like she did today. She kept us in the game.”
The Football Ferns head coach revealed the latest news about the knee injury that Tottenham Hotspur’s Ria Purcival suffered in the first half. “Ria will be assessed and scanned tomorrow morning. We need to wait until the result and will inform everyone then. Fingers crossed it won’t be a long-term injury.”
Above: Victoria Esson, who had a superb game for the Football Ferns. Photo: Hanne Davis/stuff.co.nz
Goalkeeper Victoria Esson reflected on a bitter-sweet night for her. “It is gut-wrenching losing how we did. In saying that I’m proud of the team as at times we had to ride out a storm and we scored a great goal. Our defending was phenomenal and there were bodies on the line.”
“I wasn’t concerned by all the shots coming down on me as I knew the game would turn in our favour at some point.”
Above: The Matildas celebrate Sam Kerr’s late winner against the Football Ferns in Townsvile today. Photo: Football Australia.
Australia turned the game on its head with two goals in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to defeat New Zealand 2-1 in Townsville.
The Matildas were dominant throughout with 16 shots on target to the Football Ferns one and earned 72% of possession. Yet, as was the case during the Asian Cup, they failed to turn these chances into goals and trailed from just after the half-hour mark.
Australia named Katrina Gorry in their starting line-up, for her first international appearance in over 800 days after a pause in her career to give birth. The midfielder was deployed in the number six role which allowed Emily van Egmond the potential to get forward more. Who to fill the number six position for The Matildas has been an issue for Tony Gustavsson for some time. In the first half, Gorry offered enough in her link-up play to suggest that she offers a solution.
New Zealand had not beaten Australia since October 1994. In the intervening 27 and a half years, the Matildas had won 26 of the 29 matches between the two sides. For much of the first half, it looked as though that trend would continue.
Put simply, Australia were rampant – but in a worrying flashback to their Asian Cup campaign, for all the possession held and shots on target (71% and six shots to one in the first half alone), they could not translate that into a scoreboard lead.
The Matildas imposed their high press, fast passing game from the off with Gorry and Fowler prominent. The latter, made herself available both wide and centrally and gave yet another performance of maturity and skill way beyond her teenage years.
It took Australia just three minutes to fashion their first chance when Victoria Esson saved Hayley Raso’s shot after the Manchester City star was played in by Fowler. Less than 60 seconds later, Kyah Simon got up highest to direct a thumping header narrowly wide.
The pressure continued to build and with nine minutes on the clock, Simon had a shot blocked on the left which was recycled back into the box by Steph Catley. Clare Polkinghorne directed a header goalwards but Esson stretched out a left palm to deny the Queenslander with a sensational save.
There were more difficulties for the Football Ferns when Spurs’ Ria Percival twisted her knee when changing direction off the ball and had to leave the pitch to be replaced by Meikayla Moore.
Shortly afterwards, there was another opportunity for Australia as Fowler’s long ball found Alanna Kennedy near the six-yard box. The Manchester City defender’s flick header was claimed by Esson.
With 26 minutes played, New Zealand earned their first corner which only led to another Matildas attack after Polkinghorne comfortably headed clear. Raso made yards down the right and squared for Kerr but to no avail.
As was all too familiar from Australia’s last outing against Korea in the Asia Cup Quarter-Finals, creating umpteen chances and missing them can often lead to disaster. Just after the half hour, Meikayla Moore, on as a sub for the injured Percival hit a long ball from central midfield for Anna Green on the left. Green hit a sensational shot on the volley which, some will claim was an attempt at a cross, flew into the far corner. Whilst there was a whiff of offside about it, the goal stood and it was another nasty reminder for Australia of their nightmare in India.
Above: New Zealand celebrate Anna Green’s superb goal. Photo: NZ Football.
The second half was a similar story. Caitlin Foord was introduced for her hundredth cap in place of Kyah Simon. Raso sped along the right and cut in to hit a shot which Esson smothered well. Shortly afterwards, Fowler hit an effort from the ‘D’ which was held by the impressive Football Ferns goalkeeper.
The Matildas were now laying siege to the New Zealand goal. Foord saw an effort come back off the bar, Fowler hit a shot narrowly over the top and Claudia Bunge was forced to clear off the line. Still Australia could not score.
At this stage, it seemed puzzling that Tony Gustavsson was not making changes. He had highlighted in his media conference the day before that we would see lots of rotation in the game to aid players, some of whom only arrived on Wednesday, but his second substitute was not made until the 78th minute when Tameka Yallop replaced Mary Fowler. The Matildas head coach would explain in his post-match media conference that in-action stats coming through meant that the starting players were not showing signs of fatigue that necessitated their replacement amidst the team’s domination. For coverage of the full post-match media conference, click here: https://impetusfootball.org/2022/04/08/australia-v-new-zealand-media-conference-wrap/
Cortnee Vine, an absolute sensation for Sydney FC in the A-League Women and one of the positives from the Asia Cup disappointments came on in stoppage time at the end of the match. Despite only being part of the action for a short period, Vine showed her worth as the game turned with typical Matildas never-say-die spirit.
Above: Australian joy after equalizing. Photo: Football Australia.
Four minutes into stoppage time, Carpenter went on a typically marauding run along the right and cut back for van Egmond to sweep home a side-footed shot.
Then, just two minutes later, great work from Vine along the right won a corner from Bunge. Catley curled an effort in which was met by the head of Kennedy and Kerr nipped in to nod home from just outside the six-yard box.
It was a staggering turnaround. In terms of chances created, possession and spirit, Australia deserved the win. Yet, you can’t help but feel that the problem of turning chances into goals is an issue that needs solving.
New Zealand were well organized and defended superbly. It was a devastating way for the game to end, but Jitka Klimková’s side will take many positives from this.
Above: The Australia team line-up in Townsville before kick-off. Photo: Football Australia.
Impetus’Jean-Pierre Thiesset was in Wales’ pre-game media conference with captain Sophie Ingle and head coach Gemma Grainger for the game against Francefor us. Ben Gilby reviews the key points that were raised(8/4/22).
Above: Wales captain Sophie Ingle speaking to the media yesterday. Photo: FA Wales.
Wales captain Sophie Ingle sees tonight’s game against France in Llanelli as a real opportunity for her nation to show just how far they have come.
“France are one of the best teams in the world, so it’s a great test of who we are. We were incredible over there, but this time we need to see if we can do it again, but go one better in terms of a result.
“Defensively over there, we were solid more or less throughout. We were disappointed with the two goals that we conceded, but the character we showed in the second half when we went down to 10 players was great and we could have got a goal.”
Wales go into the World Cup qualifier on the back of a fourth-placed finish in the eight-nation Pinatar Cup in February – a positive achievement given the team went into the competition as the sixth highest-ranked team in the event. Ingle took so many positives from the experience.
“The Pinatar Cup was great for us to rotate the team and the young girls who came in really stepped up. We really have a bench now and strength in depth for the first time.”
The game tonight will be played once more in Llanelli, a location with a growing reputation for passionate fans of Welsh women’s football.
“Parc y Scarlets is starting to feel like a home for us now. We have a lot of fans in Llanelli who want to come to our games now and it looks like we’re going to have a record crowd this week as well.
“I can’t wait for the French to walk in and be hit by the atmosphere that we create in Wales. I don’t think they will expect it. They have a lot of fans, but do they expect us to have the sort of atmosphere that will be at Llanelli? I don’t think so!”
“These are the games that I love playing in. We’re little old Wales against France. We’re always the underdog. It’s about us showing who we are, individually and collectively.”
Sophie Ingle
Ingle recognizes that the growth of women’s sport in Wales is growing with increased investment leading to ever-improving national team performances in different sports. “I think it shows that when people back the women’s teams, look what they can do. Look at the Welsh women’s rugby team. Twelve of them have now been able to go professional and look how well they are doing in the Six Nations. It’s the same for us in the Welsh football team.”
The Welsh captain emphasized that Wales’ growing ability and achievements on the pitch are leading to increased expectations. “Our fans now, when we are playing the lower-ranked teams expect us to win four or five-nil and see us as a strong team against the top nations.”
Above: Wales head coach Gemma Grainger is positive ahead of tonight’s game with France. Photo: FA Wales.
Wales head coach Gemma Granger has set her sights on using the foundations of her team’s superb display in France in November to produce something special tonight.
“We’re focussed on building on that performance. These are the teams we want to play. It is about being better at being us. In November in France we were unlucky – a post width away from equalizing with only 10 players.
“We know that Friday’s game will be very different. France are the third-best team in the world. Our ambitions are to compete with them. It’s our mentality. It’s the next step in our journey, 12 months ago we were a very different team. It’s exciting seeing the belief that is pumping into the team.”
“Excited sums us up as a group. We’re riding off the back of the way that the nation is feeling about Welsh football at the moment. We respect France, but we want to be playing them in tournaments, start strong and build on it.”
Gemma Grainger
Grainger highlighted the impact that her player’s performance levels are having. “The amount of game time our players have across the squad for their clubs now really shows how we’re growing. When I first came into the role, we had 10, 15 players able to train on the first day as they hadn’t played for their clubs the day before. This week we only had four or five training on that Monday.”
Despite all the positivity in the Wales camp ahead of the game, Grainger recognizes that France pose her team a huge challenge.
“The individual strength that France have in their team is incredible. Most of them were playing in the Champions League last week. The level they play at, the athleticism. They have some of the world’s best players.”
“Marie-Antoinette Katoto is one of the most in-form strikers in Europe and we learned a lot playing against her in November, but you have to respect their entire team. They have strengths in lots of different areas. You can’t necessarily stop it, it’s about how you defend against it. If we can’t win the ball, it’s about how you deal with the crosses, first contact, second ball. We did that in November and need to do the same on Friday.”
It is not just the Welsh team who are an ever-growing force. The head coach identified her pride in the ever-increasing numbers of fans at their home games.
“One of the most positive things for us is the way we’re growing our supporter base. For the first qualifying game in September we had 1,700 fans at Parc y Scarlets and for us to know that there will be 4,000 or close to 5,000 there is a huge positive. It’s why we do what we do and inspire the next generation. It was noisy in September, so it will be really noisy on Friday!”
“When we went to France there were over 20,000 fans there. I want France to feel something similar when they walk out. They need to feel ‘Wow, we’re not at home,’ and we can take advantage of that.”
Wellington Phoenix had a heroic first season as an A-League Women side. Despite being unable to play a home game and with by some distance the youngest squad in the competition, the New Zealanders defied the challenges to pick up wins and creditable performances.
Supporters group Flight of the Nix members Denise Duffy (DD), Holly Eades (HE), Blair Campbell (BC), Liam Symes-Wells (LS-W), Blake Forbes-Gentle (BF-G), and Jonathan Haggar (JH) spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby (BG) about their team’s maiden season(7/4/22).
Above: Wellington Phoenix celebrate their first-ever A-League Women victory over Canberra United. Photo: Brett Hemmings/Getty Images.
BG: When we spoke at the beginning of the season, there were hopes of the Nix A-League Women side playing home matches in February. That never happened. What methods did you use to continue supporting/watching the Nix A-League Women team?
DD: One cool thing we did was before each match was that I would put up a post asking our group members to send a sentence or two of encouragement to the women’s team. I then flip them to assistant coach Natalie Lawrence. Hopefully, those cheers made it to the athletes.
The reality though was that in New Zealand, we all watched on Sky Sports. Sometimes I would watch at my home with my fellow Flight of the Nix member Tabitha DeSalis. Tabitha also coached with Natalie Lawrence and was targeted by New Zealand as part of their future coaches program. Other times I would watch with my American neighbour across the street, a former referee. Honestly though, the matches were late at night here. Often it was just me in a dark room on the couch cheering for the Nix. And then there was that Western Sydney Wanderers match. We all just followed the admin on Twitter. It was dubbed in our group by David Lim ‘the best match none of us watched’. We were into it through our Facebook group community. I’ve been conditioned over the years to just get women’s football in whatever form I can.
BG: Ahead of the campaign what were your most positive hopes for the team’s achievements this season?
BC: Being a team that was put together at the last minute and filled mainly with very young promising players from both sides of the Tasman, most pundits and supporters, including myself, were optimistic they would show some form of competitiveness in their matches.
To get close in some matches and perhaps steal a point or two were some of the hopes for the team. It was also hoped that players would gain valuable experience and exposure playing in a professional league and be better players for it the following season.
BG: So, how would you sum up what actually happened?
BC: The team really did exceed all expectations across a number of fronts. Straight from the first game, it could be seen the team played with good structure and showed a lot of fight on the pitch. They were up for the physical challenge and won a lot of turnover ball and interceptions.
It became apparent the team had worked first and foremost on their defensive side and their attacking play got better and better as the season went on. They were very competitive in most games and unlucky not to pick up more points during the season. After getting through the first half of the season, I’m sure a lot of supporters would have started to back the team to pick up points against the lower to mid placed teams, which I’m sure would not have been the case at the start of the season.
The players will have gained a lot from playing together in their first season and should feel very satisfied with how they conducted themselves on the field.
BG: In a season of huge positives, what were the biggest plusses for you?
BC: The first win of the season over Canberra United was a real highlight. The reactions from the players after the final whistle told it all. They had toiled very hard over the season for a win, coming very close in some earlier games.
Individual player development was very pleasing, with a number showing considerable improvement. The way the team developed was also evident, with improved passing, positioning, and ability to get forward. This was a team that had hardly any preseason, hadn’t really played together before, together with a number of players still at development level. A full pre-season along with the addition of some more experienced players bodes well for next season.
The coach Gemma Lewis was a real positive too – she has to take a lot of the credit for how she got the team to play and perform.
Above: Flight of the Nix member Blair Campbell. Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy.
BG: Which player(s) impressed you most this season? Why?
BC: Lily Alfeld was a giant in goal and a commanding presence as captain. She really did direct the younger players well (as captain) and played really well herself.
There were big wraps on Grace Jale ahead of the campaign, having previously been in the Football Ferns environment. We saw some glimpses of that potential in the first game, however, whilst she was working her way back to full fitness she suffered an injury that delayed her initial involvement.
Once we got 90-minute performances from her, we started to see her real quality and potential and she quickly became a goal-scoring threat with the lethal pace she possesses. She also started to become more prominent on the ball with some nice touches.
“It was fitting that she was the top goal scorer for the side this season and she has been well rewarded with selection back in the Football Ferns team for the series against Australia. “
The expectations on Chloe Knott were very high, being one of the very few experienced players in the team. After a few games, her quality became apparent, coinciding with a move into the strikers’ role. Her work rate is first class and she surely must be the leading contender for the amount of km’s covered this season on the field.
A very fit player who was always running strong at the 90-minute mark. Other noticeable attributes were her strength on the ball and lay-off passing. A key player moving forward who is also adept playing in the midfield.
I’m sure the general consensus would be that Alyssa Whinham was the find of the season, certainly the surprise packet amongst the team. It’s true, there must really be something in that Canterbury water, which is Whinham’s home province. There have been a number of young players come through the ranks there.
It has to be said there is no player like her in the team. Her composure on the ball, ability to maintain possession when under pressure, and real capacity to beat players with the ball set her apart. Some of her passing and through balls were top-notch at times.
The challenge for Whinham will be that a lot of players will now see her as a threat and strategize to close her down. Her potential, however, remains untapped and if she can continue to work on other areas of her game she will be seen as even more of a threat moving forward. The Football Ferns coach will keenly be watching her development.
Kate Taylor’s ability and skill became quickly evident during and after the first game of the season. This was a name that the commentators started to repeat over and over. Another Canterbury product that surely is knocking on the doors of the Football Ferns. A very physical courageous defender that partnered well with Mackenzie Barry at the back, winning a number of battles with composure that belied her age. Also very good at taking the ball up, driving the play forward, and a nice passer of the ball. She could potentially move a position forward one day on the pitch and play as a damaging destroyer in a holding midfield role.
One of the standout players of the season and another that will be under the microscope for the Ferns.
Along with Taylor, Mackenzie Barry was an absolute colossus in defence and one of the real reasons the team remained competitive over a number of games. A very strong physical player who disrupted a lot of the opposition’s attack and fought hard every game to stop the ball from going in the back of the net. Duly rewarded with the captaincy on a game towards the end of the season. Higher honours beckon.
Talitha Kramer was another standout player in the team, surely being one of the first picked on the team sheet once she settled in after being a later addition. Her experience was needed at the back and I’m sure we can all remember some of her great driving runs forward down the flanks. A very strong physical player who never backed down to a challenge and no doubt well respected by her team members. I’m sure all Nix supporters are hoping to see her back in Nix colours next season. A very worthy addition to the squad indeed.
Other players deserving special mention include Grace Wisnewski who was very prominent as a box-to-box midfielder and a real team player.
Ava Pritchard who after a quiet start to the season really started to shine, becoming more and more involved in the attacks with some lovely runs through and an increasing threat on goal. Zoe McMeeken, the youngest player in the team who was a regular starter. Just think how good she may become after a few more years playing at this level.
HE: I want to add Lily Alfeld, who was player of the season for me. She was not just a fantastic goalkeeper and captain, but also a fan favourite. Lily always came over to the fans after each match to have a chat, and would contact us before every match to see if we needed tickets. She also just seems like a genuinely amazing person.
Above: Flight of the Nix member Holly Eades. Photo provided by: Holly Eades.
BG: Tell us what you all make of head coach Gemma Lewis?
DD: The coaching duo, of Gemma Lewis and assistant Natalie Lawrence were the Nix’s best hires. They are young, they know these athletes, and their brand of football was exciting. The type of coach that does their job by out of control yelling and generally emotionally abusing athletes is becoming a thing of the past. You see that this style of coach was purged in the NWSL in America last season.
Our athletes were definitely feeling the pressure of having to perform at their top level week after week and live abroad. The coaches did well acknowledging these pressures and supported their athletes’ mental health. As a fan, that was awesome to see.
I will say, there is sometimes a misconception that because it’s a women’s side that mentally they have each other backs and everything will be OK. The men’s side has a chaplain to help with this. The women’s side needs access to mental health professionals during the season, and actually year-round. These days they can even be via online access. It’s a cost that needs to be funded either by the league, players union, or each team.
Above: Denise Duffy (right) with fellow Flight of the Nix member Blake Forbes-Gentle. Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy.
LS-W: I think Gemma has done a really awesome job this season. Looking at how quickly the team was announced, meaning such a short time frame to find players, coaching staff, and all the important things to get the team up and running. I feel she really adapted to this and looking at the success we had, it was a job well done.
Alongside her was Assistant Coach Natalie Lawrence and she also did an awesome job, What made this even better was a few days before each match everyone in the group would send messages for the team and Denise sent these off to Natalie. This really showed we are connected to the team even if we are 4000ks away. The way Gemma dealt with Grace Wisnewski by offering her the help she needed and supporting her the whole time really showed she cared for her players and they were like family.
Even seeing messages of support on the Phoenix’s Facebook really showed how much everyone watched and supported the team, and I am proud to be one of them. To sum it all up in one sentence. Gemma did an amazing job with such a young team and shattered all expectations put in front of her, onto next season and more wins. Hopefully, she sticks around with the team for many more years and we can have plenty more success in the future.
Above: Flight of the Nix member Liam Symes-Wells. Photo supplied by: Liam Symes-Wells.
BG: With the Nix having secured funding for two seasons of A-League Women football, do you know if there is any more news about any longer-term funding for the team?
DD: Gut instinct, I think the Nix are here to stay. General Manager David Dome even spoke of that in the future the A-League men’s sides will all have a women’s side. Honestly, dollar for dollar, I think the Wellington Phoenix organization will find the women’s side to be profitable. These women are stars, market them as such. New Zealand has changed over the last five years. Women’s sports are now all over the news. With the World Cup coming, we will find more and more football fans in New Zealand and they will find the Nix.
BG: Other than being able to play home matches in New Zealand next season, what would you like to see from the team next time round?
BF-G: No nothing more because having the club home is the greatest gift that we could have especially for the woman so we can finally show them all the gratitude and how grateful we are for all the sacrifices they have made over the pandemic and finally be able to repay them with the home crowd is the greatest gift of all.
I am proud to support a club that is so inclusive. Especially because of the story that David Dome shared with us about a blind man who would go to the matches and listen to the radio call. The audio was always behind the actual run of play because of transmission time. To solve this they allowed him to sit in the actual commentary booth. I love how the club tries its best to accommodate its supporters however they can no matter what background of disability, religion, and sexuality.
BG: Is it realistic to assume that more experienced New Zealand players would join the Nix for next season or would you be happy for another season of the talented kids?
JH: A lot of the appeal of the Nix women this season was watching a very young squad showing the entire A-League their ability to be competitive against well-established teams. Discovering the talent of Whinham, Barry, McMeekan and many others was magic!
However, the reopening of the borders for travel will have a big impact on player availability next season. It is possible that Kiwi women who played in other teams this season might switch to the Nix. So many up-and-coming players got an incredible amount of positive exposure by playing in a professional league.
For the Nix women to have a shot at making the Finals, the team needs to recruit a couple of more experienced players to guide the team through the tense moments. This season’s team would have benefited from having players with more experience in the hard-fought matches with super close scorelines resulting in losses or draws. Recruiting a couple of experienced players into the team will help secure more wins when the score lines are tight and calm is needed.
If the Nix can add two or three experienced players while keeping the bulk of the squad from this season, then fans will be happy.
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