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Canberra Get Maiden Win As Wanderers Flounder

Western Sydney Wanderers 0-5 Canberra United

Above: Margot Robinne shows what it means as her late goals put the icing on the cake for Canberra’s first win. Photo: Canberra United.

By Ben Gilby (16/2/22)

Western Sydney Wanderers crashed to their second 5-0 defeat in three days as previously winless Canberra United swept them aside at Wanderers Football Park.

The loss of Clare Hunt due to injury has been a major part of turning what was a pretty sound defensive until into one which is leaking goals at an alarming rate. This, plus the team’s record of only scoring three goals all season is causing an alarming end to the campaign for Wanderers fans.

Canberra were on top, but it took 22 minutes for the first goal to arrive. Grace Maher stepped up with a corner on the right and Michelle Heyman got up at the near post to head home.

Five minutes later United doubled their lead. Ash Sykes took on Caitlin Cooper along the left. Sykes looked to be winning the physical tussle as she advanced well into the box but lost her balance just as she tried to get a shot away and Sham Khamis gathered. The danger looked to have been averted.

However, Khamis’ resulting throw-out went straight to Laura Hughes and the Canberra midfielder was able to supply Chelsee Washington to advance into the area and slot home with ease.

**Above:** That winning feeling at long last for Canberra United. **Photo:** Canberra United.

A rare first-half attack was launched by Western Sydney as the period reached its denouement. Libby Copus-Brown escaped along the left and played a centimetre perfect ball into the path of Bryleeh Henry, but superb covering by Allyson Haran swept away Wanderers’ hopes.

Canberra’s response to Henry’s opportunity was a dangerous breakaway along the same wing with Sykes leading the charge. She played in Heyman who linked to Washington. The American turned to create space and lofted an effort was just kept out with Khamis on tip-toes to claim.

One final chance fell the visitors way as Heyman linked up with Sykes 30 yards from goal. The 30-year-old was forced wide by Cooper as she advanced into the right hand side of the box to get a shot away which Khamis claimed.

Wanderers needed to come out firing in the second half in a bid to try and wrest the game away from the capital city side. It was Canberra who created the first chance. Washington out muscled Cooper and turned away from traffic in the centre of the field to play a low, long ball into the stride of Heyman. The competition’s record scorer accelerated away from Alex Huynh but her effort was gathered up by Khamis.

With 25 minutes to go, Canberra added a third which effectively wrapped up the points. Margot Robinne got away down the left and pulled a ball across which Cooper headed away, but only into the path of Chloe Middleton who took two touches and fired a glorious effort around Galic and into the net from 20 yards.

As hard as Western Sydney tried, opportunities were never really looked like being taken. Rosie Galea created two chances that were virtual carbon copies. The first saw her cut in from the right and sent a 30-yard effort goalwards, the second from slightly closer range, but on both occasions, Chloe Lincoln’s goal was never seriously under threat.

Wanderers profligacy was further punished in the closing stages. With six minutes to play, Allira Toby lifted a pass through the middle to fellow substitute Robinne who advanced one-on-one with Khamis who smothered the shot, but the ball came loose, but despite some pressure on her from the nearest defender Alexia Apostolakis, Robinne was able to smash home Canberra’s fourth.

**Above:** Sasha Grove, Margot Robinne and Allira Toby celebrate. **Photo:** Canberra United.

It got worse still for Catherine Canniuli’s side as on the brink of stoppage time at the end of 90, Lincoln’s long clearance bounced clear for Robinne to gallop through comfortably to slot home her second and Canberra’s fifth.

For Canberra, their first win and the promise of four games to play means that their season could take on a very different look after such a frustrating spell.

Wanderers need to lift quickly as their next two games are against teams immediately around them in the table as they face Newcastle Jets and then Wellington Phoenix. If they can’t take at least four points from those two, their campaign will be finishing on a worrying note.

**Above:** Lots for Western Sydney Wanderers to ponder ahead of their next two games. **Photo:** Western Sydney Wanderers.

Teams: WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-4-2): Khamis, Huynh, Cooper, Matos, Gallagher, Galic, Price, Henry, Copus-Brown, Habuda. Substitutes: Massih, Apostolakis, Galea, Halloway, Willacy (GK).

CANBERRA UNITED (4-2-3-1): Lincoln, Ilijoski, Keir, Haran, Vidmar, Hughes, Maher, Grove, Washington, Sykes, Heyman. Substitutes: Caspers, Esposito (GK), Middleton, Robinne, Toby.

Scorers: Heyman 22, Washington 34′, Middleton 66′, Robinne 85′, 90′.

Referee: Caitlin Williams.

Attendance: 381.

Bronze & Stanway Relish The Challenge Of The New Lionesses Regime

Above: England star Lucy Bronze speaking to the media yesterday ahead of the Lionesses game with Canada. Photo: FA.

Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from both Lucy Bronze and Georgia Stanway ahead of the Lionesses opening Arnold Clarke Cup game against Olympic champions Canada at the Riverside Stadium (15/2/22).

England’s Lucy Bronze and Georgia Stanway both spoke of the confidence in the Lionesses squad and the difference in camp since the arrival of Sarina Wiegman as head coach ahead of the Arnold Clark Cup competition which will see them face three of the world’s top sides in Canada, Spain, and Germany over the next week.

At the media conference in the North-East ahead of the competition opener against the Olympic champions, Bronze told Impetus that despite the Canadian head coach Bev Priestman and a number of their players knowing the Lionesses’ well, England will pose them a very different challenge at Middlesbrough.

“Bev knows a lot of our players well, but we have changed since then, both in terms of personal and the way we play. There will be players that they don’t know as well – our younger players who have been performing well this season. We know that where we were back then is very different to where we are now.

“This is the first time we’ve played a really high-ranked team with Sarina (Wiegman) as our manager and a new way of playing, whereas Bev was part of the England team over a year ago and things are very different now.

“The team is a lot more settled and we’re in a much better place as a squad now. It’s also a different dynamic for Canada now as they go into the game as Olympic champions.”

Bronze went on to note that it was her first international camp for quite some time due to injury and remarked how noticeable the number of new faces there are among the squad under head coach Sarina Wiegman. “Yeah! There are still a few old faces around though, which is nice. We had a good catch-up yesterday and so far things are going well.

**Above:** Lucy Bronze pictured during the 2019 FIFA World Cup. **Photo:** SIPA USA/PA Images

“I’m still trying to get to know what this team is about, what our strengths are, and what we can improve on. Once I know that I can help feed that back into the team.”

The defender admitted that whilst it was hard to be on the sidelines for both club and country over recent months, it was important to put herself first and get better. “I had been impacted the previous season by it in my play, and so whilst it was frustrating to be out this season, it was something that I needed to get right for myself.”

Having games in three different parts of the country – after Thursday’s game in Middlesbrough, the Lionesses go to Norwich and then Wolverhampton is vitally important in growing the fanbase and giving youngsters the chance to see their heroes close up.

“It’s massively important,” enthused Bronze. “Growing up in the North-East, the chance of watching England internationals was few and far between, so it’s nice to give people the chance to see us play and build that support network. Particularly as we missed so many games during COVID.”

Focusing specifically on the game with Canada, Bronze is expecting a tough game. “It will be an exciting match-up, with Canada being off the back of the Olympics. A lot of the girls know Bev (Priestman, head coach, and formally Phil Neville’s assistant with the Lionesses) really well and what she has achieved is great.”

Whilst a home European Championships are on the horizon, the Manchester City star is only interested in the here and now. “Whilst there is excitement and having played in major tournaments and seeing the boost the host nation gets, for now, I’m now just focusing on what is in front of now with these three games rather than looking ahead to the Euros.

“We’re super excited for this competition. It’s nice to play in England against top nations playing big games and match ourselves against the best players in the world. We were dead set on (facing) these teams. They all offer something different. Canada have a lot of energy, Spain will look to possess the ball a lot, and Germany are so well organized. It will be all about how we match up to that, but I’ll back our players. We’ve got a strong squad.”

**Above:** Georgia Stanway discussed the development of England under Sarina Wiegman and her preferred position when she faced the media today. **Photo:** FA

Manchester City’s Georgia Stanway highlighted to Impetus‘ Ben Gilby the differences that she has noticed in the Lionesses set up since the arrival of Sarina Wiegman as head coach.

“We have had a lot of change. It is nice to know that the future is set in stone and we can build relationships with staff members as a team. For me, the massive aspect I’ve found with Sarina is the support. She wants the best for every single player and will go out of her way to make sure that every single one of us is comfortable and happy in the environment.

“If you score one goal, if you score 10 goals, or if you don’t score at all, everyone is treated the same and everyone is valued in the squad which is very important. Everyone has a purpose and has a reason to be here.”

The 23-year-old Barrow-born star spoke about the difficult period she’s had this season having to play in so many different positions for her club. She is clear where she wants to be located long term.

“I want to be able to master a position and call it my own. It’s hard being versatile. It can work in your favour when you talk about tournaments and in small squads when someone is injured. I have hit a point now where I want to knuckle down in one position and be the best I can be in that position.

“For me, it’s midfield where I want to be. I played as a youth coming through age-group football and I started there at Manchester City.

“It’s been a difficult 15 months for me at Manchester City having to fill in for people. Whether it be me playing full-back, the nine, the back three, second choice goalkeeper. I need to be able to knuckle down now and master one position and focus on the things I want and need to get better at in that position.”

Looking at the Arnold Clark Cup, Stanway was excited about the challenges that she and the Lionesses face. “It’s an opportunity to play world-class opposition and with our focus on the Euros, that’s really important. It feels like part of the Euros preparation and we need to be ready to perform from 6th July for the Euros.

O’Sullivan: Reflecting On Her First Fifty Caps

Above: Wales goalkeeper Laura O’Sullivan talking to the media today. Photo: FAW.

Impetus editor Ben Gilby heard from Cardiff City and Wales goalkeeper Laura O’Sullivan at today’s media event ahead of Wales’ Pinatar Cup opener with Scotland (15/2/22).

Laura O’Sullivan is likely to win her fiftieth cap for her country during this week’s Pinatar Cup competition, and she highlighted what a special moment it will be.

“It will mean a lot, particularly as I didn’t get started until quite late (O’Sullivan’s first cap came in her mid-twenties).”

As a part-time player with Cardiff City, it has been a particularly impressive achievement. “The whole Welsh squad are like a family really, and it’s been fantastic that they are so supportive, particularly as I have work and I kind of train on the side. It’s a huge opportunity, but when you have them you have to grab them.

“Being on the brink of a 50th cap is amazing. Working and then having to train, that’s four times a week, plus a game – it’s hard, so these things (getting a 50th cap) make it worthwhile. During the week, I often don’t get home until 10:30pm or 11pm at night. Living in Cardiff, it’s helpful as the FAW facilities are down the road and I have support there.

“I have to keep on my toes, there’s two younger goalkeepers who are pushing me all the way now. My major goal now, like many others in the squad is to play in a major championship for Wales.”

Whilst O’Sullivan is still very much part of the scene at Cardiff City, she has huge pride in the number of players in the current national squad that came through the ranks at the capital city club.

“It speaks for itself the players that Cardiff have produced for the Welsh team. There are so many. It’s been a huge part of Wales having this club. Just being a part of it is wonderful. They are progressing and producing these players for the national team.”

**Above:** Laura O’Sullivan pictured in action for Wales against England in Southampton. **Photo:** PA Wire.

The goalkeeper reflected on some of her proudest moments in a Welsh shirt. “There are so many. I think my first cap. I was thrown in at the deep end. It was an away camp and getting the call up was a shock!

“Playing Norway was a good game with very technical players. Canada was memorable with them now being Olympic champions too.”

Looking ahead to Wales’ opening Pinatar Cup game with Scotland, O’Sullivan said: “I’m looking forward to the challenge. We know what Scotland are all about and what they are going to bring. We have a game plan in place.

“They have top-level tournament experience and are higher ranked than us. Scotland are a good attacking team with good players.”

O’Sullivan highlighted the importance of competing in the Pinatar Cup rather than a couple of friendlies during this particular international window.

“We are here to prepare for the qualifiers ahead. This being a tournament is helpful meaning we can stay together for nine days and iron things out ahead of the next batch of World Cup qualifiers.”

Those qualifiers include a re-match with France, who Wales put in a spirited performance against at the end of last year.

“We took so many positives from the last game with France. There is so much more we can give. Rather than say ‘we did OK against a top-level team’, we were more disappointed. We can do better.”

Mulbarton Take The Points & Thetford The Plaudits

Mulbarton Belles 7-0 Thetford Town

Above: Thetford Town’s Abbie Corbyn (7) faces the action at Mulbarton’s Mulberry Park on Sunday. Photo: Darrell Allen.

By Darrell Allen (15/2/22)

Blustery conditions welcomed both Mulbarton Belles and Thetford Town at Mulberry Park for this latest Step Seven encounter in the Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One.

Mulbarton came into the game full of confidence as they have had 10 wins from their opening 10 in the league and are clear favourites to take the title.

Thetford arrived on the back of an abandonment last weekend at Bungay but was encouraged by recent performances despite losing three games before that.

Thetford travelled with a depleted side missing several key players in defence. A squad of 12 assembled with Amy Skipp the sole substitute for David Skipp’s team.

The pitch at Mulberry Park was in good condition considering the Mulbarton men’s team had played on it the day before.

Mulbarton as expected started the game on the front foot, but early pressure was comfortably dealt with by Thetford Town keeper Lydia Ward.

Ellie Hunter then tested Thetford with a close-range shot but this was also comfortably dealt with by Ward.

After dealing with the early pressure, Thetford then began to believe in themselves with Melissa Boulton and Chelsea Page linking up well but no end product for their efforts.

Mulbarton then ramped up the pressure, Melissa Boulton having to tackle and clear the ball from the feet of Sophie Jermy and out for a corner.

**Above:** Mulberry Park, Mulbarton. **Photo:** Darrell Allen.

The corners were cleared, but Mulbarton got the second ball in and Annie Smith backheeled it towards goal but Lydia Ward was there to deal with comfortably.

After an action-packed start, Mulbarton took the lead. A wonderful ball through to Rebekah Lake who produced a brilliant floated finish over the top of Lydia Ward.

Mulbarton knew there were more goals here for the taking, but Thetford Town stood firm with Dayna Howard and Abbie Corbyn tracking back superbly getting in the way of some key Mulbarton attacks.

Further Mulbarton chances came and went, a corner was headed over the bar, Vicky McNorton lashed a shot against the advertising boards.

Sophie Jermy then doubled Mulbarton’s lead after good play and finished well into the bottom corner.

Mia Bambury and Sausha Levy-Twomey in the Thetford defence were doing a great job rallying everyone together as the visitors dug deep for each other in what was always going to be a difficult game.

That was demonstrated in abundance by Lydia Ward who soldiered on for the cause with a bad back and superbly denied Rebekah Lake from the left-hand side.

The third goal came when Sophie Jermy was denied by Lydia Ward, but Vicky McNorton was on hand to finish well.

Sophie Jermy continued to have many chances cruelly denied twice in quick succession by the post and Lydia Ward.

Abbie Corbyn did her best down the Thetford wing, but this was always going to be an afternoon when the visitors were restricted from an attacking perspective, but none more so than with the depleted defence Thetford had who were working so hard to keep Mulbarton out.

Rebekah Lake fired a golden chance wide, one that nine times out of 10 she would usually find the net with.

**Above:** Thetford Town’s Rachel Lynch (left) on the touchline. **Photo:** Darrell Allen.

Sophie Jermy also had another chance but that was cleared by Dayna Howard. Ellie-Mae Davies also cleared a chance off the line.

Vicky McNorton was on hand to make it 4-0 shortly after.

Thetford ended the half extremely well forcing a good scramble from a Hannah Rogers corner but this was cleared by Mulbarton who then went on a three-pronged attack but Vicky McNorton fired it over the bar.

At halftime, David Skipp rallied the Thetford troops and reminded them just how well they were doing, and told the girls to enjoy the second half with a smile on their face. They absolutely listened to this, each and every one of them.

Thetford started the second half in wonderful fashion Chelsea Page and Abbie Corbyn linking up well but there was no end product and Mulbarton saw a good move out for a goal kick.

Thetford continued the excellent pressure, and Abbie Corbyn was next to fire over the bar. For the first 10 minutes of the second half, Thetford was on fire and had their illustrious hosts firmly on the back foot.

There was to be no panic from Martin Francis and his team who remained calm and made it 5-0 when Rebekah Lake finished well and fired across Lydia Ward and in. Meat and drink for a striker of her talents.

Thetford remained confident and continued to play for each other and the shirt. Melissa Boulton fired over the bar.

This was replicated at the other end of the pitch when Rebekah Lake fired over in similar fashion.

Dayna Howard had to come off injured for Thetford and it was wonderfully kind to see Mulbarton physio Grace Barley come straight over and into the Thetford bench to volunteer and provide Dayna with the medical attention she needed on an injured arm and helped make her as comfortable as possible. A superb gesture and one that should be rightfully applauded.

The final stages of the game saw Mulbarton add two more goals. Meg Anderton shot wide before Lants Griffith finished well for 6-0.

Laura Hedtke rounded off the scoring making it 7-0.

Sophie Jermy was to miss two further chances. First, a sitter from close range before Lydia Ward saved well from another opportunity.

There was time for Laura Hedtke to head wide before a late Thetford half chance from Chelsea Page.

Despite the scoreline, Thetford Town can take so many positives from this match/ Twelve players came to Mulberry Park and played their hearts out and David Skipp can be very proud of his team.

Teams: MULBARTON BELLES: Anderson, Smith, Belsey, Lincoln, Belsey, Hedtke, McNorton, Hunter, Griffith, Lake, Jermy. Substitutes: Smith, Jenkins, Mungham-Grey, Anderton, Cursons.

Scorers: Lake 2, McNorton 2, Jermy, Griffiths, Hedtke.

THETFORD TOWN: Ward, Bullett, Mae-Davies, Howard, Levy-Twomey, Bambury, Corbyn, Rogers, Boulton, Page, Howard, Substitute: Skipp.

Hannah Gets The Nod

Pride Park 1-1 Sandiacre Town

Above: Pride Park goalscorer Hannah Kwiatek in action. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

By Boot Room (15/2/22).

For the second successive League game, Pride Park hosted Sandiacre Town at the newly named Moorways Sports Village, welcoming back several players that missed the previous encounter. There was, however, another casualty to add to the list of those missing with Hannah Roberts sitting this one out, joining Summer Evans, and long-term absentees Jess Page and Janine Wardman.

Although the pitch was in very good condition, considering the recent rainfall, it was inevitably very soft underfoot which would be energy-sapping so, because of that and the cold wind, the hosts made full use of their rolling subs with regular changes to ensure the players stayed as fresh as possible, and didn’t hang around too long on the touchline. There was a risk this might prove disruptive, but the squad is flexible and adaptable and it was preferable to risking players getting cold and incurring muscle injuries.

Pride Park were playing into the wind in the first half and made a good start, almost taking the lead within the first minute, as Lottie Bryan fed the ball to Hannah Kwiatek in an advanced position on the left. Kwiatek hit a square pass across goal behind the defence and along the six-yard line, which was turned onto the post by a defender with the goalkeeper stranded. The ball rebounded across goal and just needed turning in at the far post – but a defender reacted quickest and was able to put the ball out for a corner.

After that initial chance, both teams had a few glimpses of goal – for Park, there was some good combination play down the right involving Annie Laight, and the pace of Lottie Bryan and Maja Znamirowska was a constant threat, but for the most part, both defences held out well. Just after the half-hour the ball broke to Hannah Kwiatek about eight yards out from goal and on the angle, but her instinctive left-foot shot was hit straight at the keeper.

Three minutes later Park were awarded a free kick on the left, about midway in the Sandiacre half. Tash Allderidge took the kick and lofted the ball into the area just outside the far post. Her kick eluded the defensive line and was met by Hannah Kwiatek, drifting in behind the defence to head home from around five yards out.

**Above:** Tash Allderidge fires in a pass for Pride Park. **Photo:** Shaun Hardwick.

It was a collector’s item – The Pride don’t score many headers and it was Kwiatek’s first goal in the League this season.

At half-time, it remained 1-0 to Pride Park. The wind seemed to drop, at least initially, at the start of the second half. As the game wore on Park were finding it hard to get and hold on to the ball, making it difficult to build up periods of possession to give the defence a breather, and we were opting to hit the ‘out’ ball for strikers to chase a little more than we’d have liked.

Whilst this was at times effective and did lead to some decent opportunities, Lottie Bryan, Maja Znamirowska, and Annie Laight with shots wide or at the keeper, it also resulted in possession being given away when the ball was overhit or the pass forward lacked accuracy. At the same time, Sandiacre started to have more possession and were building promising attacks, but Pride Park’s back five defended well throughout, showing resilience and providing very little in the way of clear cut chances – Jade Howell in the Pride Park goal had a few shots to deal with but those on target were within reach and her positioning and handling in difficult conditions was really good.

It was doubly disappointing, therefore for the home side to concede an equalizer from a corner in the final minute. Having defended corners well throughout the game, Park failed to cut out a waist height corner from the left – it was missed by the front defender, and an attempted clearance was sliced in by the second defender for an own goal. It was one of those that can happen, but frustrating for everyone, after being so close to a clean sheet and three points.

It shouldn’t overshadow what had been a battling performance in difficult conditions, however. It was also good to end a run of four defeats for The Pride and, on balance, a draw was probably a fair result.

Next week Pride Park travel to Mickleover (ko 1.30pm).

Markovski Thrives On The Challenge Of Ending Sydney Run

Above: Maja Markovski speaking to the media today. Photo: Melbourne Victory.

Ahead of tomorrow’s huge clash between Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC, Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Victory forward Maja Markovski (15/2/22).

Melbourne Victory’s 20-year-old striker Maja Markovski is looking forward to take on A-League Women leaders Sydney FC tomorrow, with the opportunity of becoming only the second player all season to score a goal against them.

“They have only conceded one goal all season, so I definitely see it as a challenge. The girls and I are determined to go for it!” she smiled.

Jeff Hopkins’ side comes into the game in strong form, looking to be hitting their peak at the right time.

“We’ve improved in areas which, earlier on in the season we had struggled with. The test now comes with playing Sydney FC and I think that will be a really good game,” Markovski said.

“It will be a game where we are going to have to remain patient and take chances when they come. Last time it came down to the 120th minute (in the Grand Final). If it goes to the end this time as well, so be it!”

The striker highlighted that she feels Kyra Cooney-Cross and Alex Chidiac can be the key players in threatening Sydney.

“Kyra brings a lot out wide. She’s really fast and can whip some good balls in as well as cutting in and shooting. Not only that but with ‘Chids’ cutting in from behind and getting it, they will be a threat against Sydney.”

With Victory losing Claudia Bunge on international duty, another centre-back reshuffle is required. Markovski outlined the present thinking behind how that will go.

**Above:** Maja Markovski (left) – confident about Melbourne Victory’s chances against Sydney FC tomorrow. **Photo:** Con Chronis/AAP PHOTOS

“We’ll probably have AJ (Amy Jackson) in there. She’s played a few games there before and done really well for us. We also have Brooke (Hendrix) there too as well who has added experience, so we should be OK.”

The 20-year-old outlined the huge respect that she has for Sydney FC, believing that there are very few weaknesses in their team.

“They are really disciplined in the back, their midfield is quality and their forwards are super dangerous. They have quality across the whole park.”

Looking beyond this season, Markovski revealed that she is weighing up options of where to play once the A-League Women campaign is over. Despite saying that no decisions have been made, she asserted: “Anywhere in Europe would be nice, to be honest.”

Epakis Signs On For A Third Year

Above: Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis, who has extended his spell at the club for a third season. Photo: Perth Glory.

After several days of speculation, Perth Glory has confirmed that the club’s Head Coach Alex Epakis has signed a one-year contract extension which will see him remain in charge for the 2022-23 Season.

Currently in his second year at the helm, the 30-year-old has overseen a remarkable campaign in which his side has established themselves as serious Finals contenders despite being based in Sydney since the turn of the year and having to play all bar one of their fixtures away from home.

Having recorded five wins and three draws from 11 games, Glory currently sits just three points outside the top four, with three regular-season games left to play.

Epakis has also established an impressive track record over the last two seasons for handing first-team opportunities to young players, many of whom have developed into consistent performers at Liberty A-League level.

The former Sydney University Head Coach is thrilled to have pledged his future to the club and is confident that his squad will continue to evolve and improve throughout the remainder of this season and onwards into 2022-23.

“I am really excited to extend my stay with Perth Glory,” he said.

**Above:** The sense of togetherness that Epakis has instilled in the Perth Glory team is clear to see. **Photo:**

“I am really passionate about the club and am wholeheartedly invested in the entire playing group and the support staff. The opportunity to continue to work alongside a fantastic group of committed players and people is something that really drives me on a daily basis and I am determined to help the group achieve success.

“As a team, we have faced and overcome some difficult moments, but we are focused on a clear vision. I am well supported by an excellent staff and together we are committed to ensuring that the team finishes this current season as strongly as possible and to continuing our growth and success into next season.

“Finally, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Glory Owner and Chairman Tony Sage, CEO Tony Pignata, and Football Operations Manager Terry McFlynn, for their ongoing support.

“I appreciate that they have trust in my work and vision and I sincerely thank them for the opportunity to represent the club.”

Pignata, meanwhile, was quick to acknowledge the impact Epakis has had upon the club and believes that he has the potential to help re-establish Glory among the Liberty A-League’s most consistently successful clubs.

“Alex has done an excellent job this year under the most trying of circumstances,” he said.

“He has successfully reshaped the squad and we have certainly come a long way since last year. It has been incredibly tough for the players and staff to spend so long on the road, but Alex has kept them motivated and focused and that has been reflected by some of the hugely-impressive performances they have produced this year.

“We are confident that he has the ability to use the positives from this season as a springboard for further success in 2022-23.”

Impetus Achievers Awards

The weekend’s Round 11 of the Liberty A-League Women was, arguably one of the greatest in the competition’s history. There was the historic first-ever win for Wellington Phoenix and a record defeat for Brisbane Roar. If that wasn’t enough there were 23 goals in five matches. Impetus’ writing team for the competition, Kieran Yap, Kris Goman, and Ben Gilby reveal who caught their eyes this week (14/2/22).

PLAYER OF THE WEEK:

Kieran: Fiona Worts. Kyra Cooney-Cross would have won this any other week with her performance against Western Sydney Wanderers, but Worts scored five goals in a must-win game.

Kris: It’s Kyra Cooney-Cross. A goal, one actual assist, two non-accredited assists. She produced an incredible performance. Her class stood out like a sore thumb this week.

**Above:** What a performance. Two of our three writers plumped for Kyra Cooney-Cross ahead of five-goal Fiona Worts as player of the week. **Photo:** Kris Goman.

Ben: I was badly torn between Fiona Worts and Kyra Cooney-Cross this week. In the end, I went for Cooney-Cross. A sensational individual performance, scoring a goal, and involved in three others. Worts did score five, and in any other week would have taken the honours from me, but such was Adelaide’s team performance, they would have blown Brisbane away regardless of how many Worts scored.

COACH OF THE WEEK:

Kieran: Wellington Phoenix’s Gemma Lewis. It was more than just a heart-warming story. Wellington Phoenix defended well, attacked clinically, and ran relentlessly. They were able to make up for the injury to Kate Taylor and extended their lead even without her. This was an absorbing match and a brilliant win by a well-coached side that will likely destroy us all in years to come.

Kris: It has to be Gemma Lewis. For bringing those girls through to their first historic win. For keeping on believing. For actually getting it done and done impressively.

**Above:** Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis captured during a media conference. **Photo:** Wellington Phoenix.

Ben: Adrian Stenta would have taken the award from me in any other week for the way he set up his team’s relentless ultra-high press to unsettle the Brisbane defence from the off. But, you can’t look beyond Gemma Lewis. At the end of a week when she revealed a number of her players are now so homesick that they are actively counting down the days until they return to New Zealand, for them to produce that performance, and get that result was just sensational. And so deserved.

EVENT OF THE WEEK:

Kieran: Mie Leth Jans being unaware in her half-time TV interview that Perth was winning at half time on Thursday. It was funny but also typical of a player who seems committed and focussed on the current and next passage of play. Perth could be 1-0 up 1-1 or 3-0 down and she would play with the same commitment and enthusiasm.

Kris: The disallowed goal at the end of the Newcastle Jets v Sydney FC match. It set the crowd alight. I haven’t rewatched it and because I was photographing and didn’t really see it, so I can’t cast judgment yet, but the crowd thought it was a goal and really wanted to break the clean sheets record Sydney had and grab a point. The officials really copped a booing leaving the field. I love the Newcastle supporters and this moment really brought them alive. As well as all the players. Love a bit of controversy.

Ben: Wellington winning, Adelaide smashing eight goals at Brisbane, Fiona Worts scoring five goals, Kyra Cooney-Cross absolutely bossing it, late drama at Newcastle Jets. Where to begin? What a round! One of the greatest ever so for me, Round 11 was the event. Wow.

The View From France

Above: Catarina Macario scores for Olympique Lyonnais in the 38th minute. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

By Jean-Pierre Thiesset (14/2/22)

Two games were played on Friday as games cancelled due to COVID were rescheduled.

Paris Saint-Germain at home won 5-0 against Dijon. It was an easy game for Paris SG which completely dominated with 71% possession, 19 shots with 10 on target. Again Marie-Antoinette Katoto scored twice and extended her tally as PSG’s all-time record goalscorer to 134 goals. Goals for Paris SG from Grace Geyoro (3), Marie-Antoinette Katoto (15, 42), Sandy Baltimore (58), Sara Däbritz (70).

Olympique Lyonnais won 8-0 at home against Soyaux. This game was almost too easy for Lyon with the exception of the opening 20 minutes.

Sonia Bompastor, Lyon coach, was missing most of her key players for this game, and this is probably what explain that the first 20 minutes were not so easy. Injured were: Amandine Henry, Damaris Egurrola, Daniële Van De Donk, Christiane Endler, Amel Majri; Sick: Delphine Cascarino, and Perle Morroni; still coming back from injury: Sara Björk Gunnarsdottir and suspended: Eugénie Le Sommer.

**Above:** Laurine Baga, 18 yers old, in action during the game against Soyaux. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for *Impetus*.

So, in this game we saw the young players from Lyon: To start the game, Selma Bacha (21 years old), Emelyne Laurent (23), Inès Benyahia (18), Melvine Malard (21). Coming on as subs: Alice Sombath (18), Laurine Baga (18), Kysha Sylla (18), Celia Bensalem (17). This young team largely dominated the game (62% possession, 27 shots with 15 on target, eight corners). Inès Benyahia scored her first goal in D1 Arkema on her debut, Ada Hegerberg scored three goals and Catarina Macario scored twice. Goals for Lyon from Ada Hegerberg (19, 52, 70), Catarina Macario (38, 86), Griedge MBock (45+1), Melvine Malard (71), Inès Benyahia (77).

Dons Close Gap Further At Top

AFC Wimbledon 2-0 Stevenage

From George Jones, AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Above: AFC Wimbledon celebrate yesterday at Carshalton. Photo: Glyn Roberts.

The Dons ran out eventual winners at Carshalton Athletic on Sunday in a game that was overshadowed by a serious injury sustained by the Stevenage keeper in the first 10 minutes.

Wimbledon went into the game after last Sunday’s incredible penalty shoot-out victory away to Portsmouth to secure their place in the semi-final of the FAWNL Plate. With second place Billericay Town not playing, the Dons knew a victory would further close the gap to the top two.

The hosts got off to a perfect start when Katie Stanley opened the scoring after only nine minutes. However whilst the Dons were celebrating the Stevenage keeper stayed down having sustained a shoulder injury in the process of attempting a save. There was then a 30-minute break in play whilst she received treatment before being transferred to hospital. When play restarted the rest of the first half was a scrappy affair with neither team having any clear-cut chances.

In the second half, the Dons started in a much stronger fashion and doubled their lead just before the hour mark as Ashlee Hincks continued her scoring streak. Wimbledon continued their dominance and kept searching for more goals. However, a well-disciplined Stevenage side dug in and made life difficult for the Dons and prevented them from extending their advantage.

El Sueno Tequila Player of The Match Angel Fowler said “The main thing was we got the win today, it was not our best performance either but we certainly played our game and did what we needed to do to get three points”

First-team coach Andy May reviewed the game saying: “It was a difficult one to be fair looking back at it, we didn’t set our standards and the intensity we wanted to work at but at the end of the day it’s three points so it’s a pleasing thing but I think there is more from us than that performance today.”

Next up, AFC Wimbledon are back at Plough Lane on Wednesday night against Queen’s Park Rangers with tickets now available via: https://tickets.afcwimbledon.ltd.uk/selection/event/seat?perfId=101594902329&ot=0&gtmStepTracking=true

Teams: AFC WIMBLEDON: Baker, Childerhouse, Fowler, Sargent, 20. Billingham, Mann (Russell), Donovan, Stow (Oliver), Pickett (Sampson), Hincks, Stanley (Taylor).

Scorers: Stanley 9′, Hincks 57′.

STEVENAGE: Brooks, Webster, Gunn, Neal, Nebbitt, Straver, Sharos, French, Bellinger, Schofield, Makewell. Substitutes: Southby, Greenwood, Manning, Bennett, Swarres.