Above: Hitting the target – AFC Wimbledon at Sporting Khalsa in the FAWNL National Plate Semi-Final yesterday. Photo: Glyn Roberts.
By George Jones – AFC Wimbledon Ladies(7/3/22)
AFC Wimbledon made history on Sunday by reaching their first national final since being reformed.
The journey in their FA Women’s National League Plate competition has been a long one with the Dons have already beaten Norwich City, Chesham United, Portishead Town and Portsmouth so far this season in the competition and went into Sunday’s game knowing only Sporting Khalsa stood in the way of reaching their first national final since 1994.
With Plough Lane hosting the Continental Cup Final on Saturday, the Wimbledon players were guests at the game before making their way up to the team hotel just outside Wolverhampton. Despite the late arrival at the hotel, the team were in good spirits determined to make more history in what has already been a historic season for the Dons.
The game itself got off to a scrappy start with Sporting Khalsa having the first chance as they were carrying a real threat from set-pieces. On the 15th minute mark, there was a lengthy delay after a collision between the Dons ‘keeper Lauren Allen and a Sporting Khalsa forward which forced the hosts into making a substitution thankfully Lauren was able to carry on. The rest of the first half had few clear-cut chances for either side in what was a very scrappy and physical first half.
However, the second half was a different story, and less than 60 seconds into the second half the Dons found themselves in front after Ashlee Hincks headed the Dons in front after some brilliant play from Katie Stanley out wide.
Wimbledon doubled their lead on the hour mark as Katie Stanley finished from close range with Hincks claiming the assist. With a little over 20 minutes remaining, the Dons further extended their lead as Hincks got her second and the Dons’ third goal of the game.
With 15 minutes remaining the Dons went 4-0 up with Hincks completing her hattrick and in the process scoring her 35th goal in only 27 games this season. Sporting Khalsa was able to get a consolation goal with five minutes remaining.
The Dons stayed composed and ended up deserved 4-1 winners and booked their spot in the FAWNL Plate Final where they will face Nottingham Forest who beat Cheltenham Town 3-0 in the other semi-final.
Dons manager Kevin Foster said: “In the first half we were not at our best. We made it quite scrappy and didn’t pass the ball as well as we could. We spoke to the players at halftime and changed a few things in the way that we do this and to be fair in the second half they have taken on board a lot of what we said and that’s probably one of the best second-half displays I’ve seen from us.”
Ashlee Hincks said: “It was a game of two halves, how we started the second half just put the game to bed early doors and from there we could enjoy the game a little bit more.”
Brisbane are coming home strong as they play out their catch-up matches, unfortunately, too late to have any impact on the Finals, but at least restoring some pride to the team.
This was your proverbial match of two halves with Brisbane in control, despite less possession, and seemingly scoring at will in the first half. Newcastle tightened up the defence in the second half as well as stepping up on the attacking. This resulted in a lot of near misses but very little on target.
Brisbane opened their account very early, in just the fourth minute, when Katrina Gorry did what Gorry does best and took a pot shot at goal. She found herself in a bit of space and had a crack from the top of the box. The rocket launched to the left of goal and Claire Coelho had no chance of stopping it. Brisbane take the early lead at 1-0.
Not long after, Shea Connors broke clear and chanced another long shot. This wasn’t as well directed and went out to the left.
Holly Palmer got a similar opportunity shortly after and took quite a considered shot to the top right but Coelho anticipated it beautifully and glided across to capture it.
The continued pressure found the cracks eventually. Gorry set this up with a pass for Mariel Hecher to run onto in the box. She rounded Coelho after drawing her out, headed for the byline, and cut back to Larissa Crummer who had the easy tap in for Roar’s second goal, scored in the 13th minute.
Newcastle instigated a fightback when Sophie Harding took the ball down the right and centred it to Elizabeth Eddy. She turned and flipped it into the right-hand side of the goal but was called offside and the goal was disallowed leaving the score at 2-0.
Once again, Gorry found some space, performed some magic, and passed out to Connors who was unmarked on the left. She got a clear shot as she touched it into the box and Coelho had it covered with a jump but didn’t quite catch the ball and it bounced out of her hands, rolled behind her, and limped into goal as Coelho scampered towards it but not before it crosses the line. At 29 minutes Roar suddenly have a commanding lead of 3-0.
Above: Katrina Gorry (left) of Brisbane Roar takes on Bethany Gordon today. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Gorry tried another long-range shot that was caught safely by Coelho. Then it feels like the floodgates opened as Gorry started off another movement that ended in a goal when she sent the perfect pass through to Connors. Coelho came out again and was rounded again. Tiana Jaber got back to defend the goal but she was easily sidestepped too and the ball went past and into the right side of goal. We’re at 4-0 to Brisbane with just over five minutes left in the half.
Bethany Gordon tried to retaliate with a long shot but it flew just a little high and over the crossbar. The shots are 11-2 to Brisbane despite the Jets having slightly more possession.
Coming back from halftime, Brisbane are straight back onto the attack. A Gorry corner gets cleared by the Jets and Lauren Allen, who’s just come on to replace Lucy Johnson, took a little breakaway run up the field. The defence recovered to swamp her and it went nowhere.
Connors was found offside three times in front of a virtually open goal each time. Some poorly timed runs which probably cost some extra goals.
The rest of the second half is marked by the Jets stepping up the attack but just being off-target constantly. At half time the shots are 11-2 in favour of Brisbane but on target shots are 8-0, By full time the shots are equal at 14 all but on-target shots are 9-1 in favour of Brisbane. Never has the much-used term, “Need to be more clinical in front of goal” been more apt.
Harding was in the clear and got a shot from the top of the box but sent it just over the crossbar.
A bad clearance by Isabella Shuttleworth went straight to Eddy who was also in open space but she was closed down quite quickly by the defence and her shot sailed over the crossbar.
Hannah Brewer took a long shot that was cleared by Hecher on the edge of the goal. Harding later found Kirsty Fenton and her shot is just high again. Gooch tried a very ambitious shot from 30 meters out that’s easily gathered by Shuttleworth.
Above: Brisbane Roar’s Jamilla Rankin is held off. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Jaber sent a lovely cross over to Eddy but her header isn’t quite directed to the right spot and goes just wide of the goal.
A Fenton header from an Eddy corner went close to goal but once more, it’s just to the right and does not require a save from Shuttleworth who’s had a light shift today.
A Harding cross went begging as it flew past the far post. She was involved again with a shot from the left that required a dive from Shuttleworth but she’s wrapped it all up safely and the Jets can’t crack the defence.
In the final play of the match, Gooch skips through the midfield and executes a nice pass to Allen who entangles with Shuttleworth and got a shot away but it’s also wide.
In the post-match interview, Gorry mentions that she’s proud of the girls and that it was so good to get some wins on the board. The season is not too long and they got there in the end and will come back bigger and stronger.
Cass Davis said that Newcastle had been struggling with numbers and it was a disappointing way to end the season. It was tough on the girls with so many injured.
Connors was awarded player of the match. She said they wanted to make the most of the match and the last game. It means everything to them and Queensland has had it rough and they wanted to bring some joy to QLD and northern NSW post the floods.
Garrath McPherson said the win was down to the adaptability of the team. Their mindset and positivity. What’s changed is a real attitude of the players to work for each other. Together is better. They are trying to help others on the field and wanted to see Mini off with a big win.
Brisbane play Canberra in their final match of the season at 7.05 on Thursday night. The finals have been decided and Sydney will play Melbourne City and Adelaide will be playing Melbourne Victory over the weekend.
Above: The ParaMatildas players and coaching staff today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia (Getty Images).
Football Australia today announced the launch of the ParaMatildas, Australia’s first national team for women and girls with cerebral palsy (CP), acquired brain injury (ABI), and symptoms of stroke.
A first in the Asia-Pacific region, the ParaMatildas become the 10th member of Australia’s national teams’ family and the first new senior national team in 22 years.
Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, is delighted to welcome the ParaMatildas to the fold.
“Today is a momentous occasion for Football Australia as we celebrate the inclusion of the ParaMatildas in the Australian football family,” he said.
“With the launch of the ParaMatildas we are closing the gap in Australian football and ensuring that women and girls have the same pathways as men and boys in our game. This announcement is the result of years of incredible commitment, hard work and belief from many people in our football community, and it will be transformative for our All Abilities programs.”
“With Australia co-hosting the Women’s World Cup 2023 in 500 days, and as a global leader in women’s football, we now plan to leverage this milestone event to develop a sustainable, world-class ParaMatildas program. This will demonstrate to women and girls with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury or symptoms of stroke that football is a game which they can enjoy and excel, and that their achievements will be celebrated by an Australia that embraces diversity.”
More than 2.2 million women and girls live with disability, with 700,000 Australians living with an ABI and one in six Australians set to have a stroke in their lifetime.
Above: Members of the inaugural ParaMatildas squad pictured today at their launch in Sydney. Photoprovided to Impetus by: Football Australia (Getty Images)
CP football is a seven-a-side sport with smaller goals, 30-minute halves, and no offside. Players are classed as FT1, FT2, and FT3 depending on how their disability affects a player, with at least one FT1 player and a maximum of one FT3 player required to be on the pitch at all times.
A long-standing All Abilities coach and program coordinator, ACT’s Kelly Stirton will be the ParaMatildas inaugural Head Coach. Stirton expressed her pride at being named Head Coach and how the potential impact of the ParaMatildas cannot be understated.
“As a Head Coach in the All Abilities space, this has been a dream of mine to be able to take a team at the national level,” Stirton said. “Being able to say I’ve coached an Australian team has been a dream because we now have a pathway created from young children to adults and the ability to say to players that they can represent their country.”
“This team will stand proudly alongside their Commonwealth Bank Matildas teammates as iconic female footballers and that is an incredible visual that we are portraying as a sport.”
ParaMatilda and London 2012 Paralympian, Georgia Beikoff, said: “This will be an absolute dream come true for all of us. Knowing this will create opportunities to break barriers around the stigma of disability is something that we are all ecstatic about.”
“The girls and I have all faced all sorts of challenges growing up, living with a disability that has been incredibly tough. To platform what we bring as women with CP, ABI, or with symptoms of stroke as a national football team, I believe will help pave the way for young girls and boys living with a disability in Australia to face life with a determined and fierce spirit.”
“We are so stoked to be able to don the green and gold and join that national team family at Football Australia. In launching a team like the ParaMatildas, I truly believe we will represent and further contribute to the values of diversity, inclusion and a sense of belonging that our sport upholds.”
The ParaMatildas will hold their first camp in April as they prepare to compete in the inaugural IFCPF Women’s World Cup in Spain. The tournament will take place from 8-18 May 2022.
Australians can get behind the ParaMatildas’ World Cup campaign by making a tax-deductible donation to the team here. Every donation over $2 made to the squad is tax-deductible and will go directly to supporting national team training camps, coaching, sports science, and tournament costs to ensure that the ParaMatildas have the best possible chance to represent Australia on the world stage.
Another way to support the ParaMatildas, while also supporting the Commonwealth Bank Matildas, is to purchase a ticket to Australia’s upcoming international friendly against New Zealand at Canberra’s GIO Stadium. $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the ParaMatildas. Tickets to CommBank Matildas v New Zealand are on sale
Above: Sydney FC celebrate winning the Premier’s Plate after defeating Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium today. Photo: Sydney FC.
By Kieran Yap (6/3/22)
The title would be decided in Adelaide. Sydney FC travelled south in need of a draw to finish top of the table. A chaotic first half yielded few clear-cut chances and neither team could impose themselves on the contest.
Reona Omiya had a chance that she should have buried in the opening minutes. Fiona Worts’ high, looping cross was not cleared and the ball fell to Omiya.
She hit her shot well but directly at Jada Whyman who got down low to block it and hold onto the bobbling rebound.
Worts almost got in on goal again and appealed for a penalty as Charlize Rule looked to have fouled the striker. The referee did not consider the contact to be enough and waved play on.
Sydney FC are normally a team that dominates in midfield. Although all of their midfield trio were involved heavily they were unable to control the pace of the game. Adelaide prefer the match played at a frenetic pace and turnovers for both sides were common.
With final passes often cut off by Kayla Sharples and Matilda McNamara, Rachel Lowe decided to skip that and go direct for goal from long range. Annalee Grove scrambled back to stop it but it over overhit and sailed beyond the goal.
Above: Adelaide United’s Ella Tonkin (right) keeps her eyes on the ball under pressure from Sydney FC’s Rachel Lowe. Photo: Adelaide United.
Mackenzie Hawkesby was dynamic in midfield and attempted to knit play together but the Adelaide back four played with a low-risk mentality, clearing any first-half attacks with either a solid boot to safety or running the ball out individually.
Chelsie Dawber almost added to her 10 goals for the season with an attempt to hook the ball over her shoulder. The shot was on target but Whyman was well placed and held onto it firmly.
The half ended with a rare passing move involving Princess Ibini, Hawesby, and Paige Satchell. The New Zealand winger shot well at the near post but Grove was equal to it
Remy Siemsen had the first opportunity after the break, her half-volley from a tight angle swung wide but it was the first sign that Adelaide’s defence could be penetrated.
A slick passing move by Sydney FC involving Ally Green and Siemsen put Ibini in space and within range. Her curling effort looked good off the boot but did not dip in time to trouble Grove.
Mackenzie Hawkesby continued to threaten with long-range shots as Sydney started to find some momentum. Adelaide United remained dangerous on the counterattack but could not find any easy openings in attack.
Above: Sydney FC’s Ally Green in possession (right) under the watchful eye of Adelaide United’s Isabel Hodgson. Photo: Sydney FC.
On the hour mark, the deadlock was finally broken. Paige Satchell teed up Siemsen for a shot that Grove did well to block. The resulting corner kick fell to Satchell who clipped it up and over Grove with a terrific finish.
That goal put Sydney FC in a strong position to retain to the Premiership. Adelaide would need to score twice to hand the title to Melbourne City.
Fiona Worts lined up a shot from 20 yards out, it was blocked at close quarters by Nat Tobin who took the pain to save a goal.
As the game wore on Adelaide started to rest players with an eye on finals. Matilda McNamara had already been withdrawn and skipper Isabel Hodgson joined her on the bench.
The Reds could go neither up nor down on the ladder, but they continued to attack. A classy flick by Dawber put Amelia Murray through on goal but she scuffed the shot.
Above: Sydney FC’s Remy Siemsen (left) competes with Adelaide United’s Ella Tonkin for possession. Photo: Sydney FC.
Grace Taranto on for her second appearance of the season almost levelled the scores but her shot was deflected wide. From the corner kick, Emma Stanbury looked to have been fouled from behind by the referee was unable to see it clearly from her angle.
Satchell went right up the other end and rocketed a shot toward goal. Grove stretched athletically to tip it over.
Adelaide looked suddenly energized by the missed penalty shout and lifted in injury time, the game opened up momentarily but Sydney FC held out to win and be crowned Premiers for another consecutive year.
Adelaide would not be too troubled by the loss. They have finished third, their best ever position, and will play finals with players rested and returning from injury or suspension. They should add Nanako Sasaki and Emily Condon to this side with Paige Hayward possibly joining them too.
Sydney FC are the 2021/22 A-League Women’s Premiers. They have only lost one game and been held to a draw only twice. They have dominated most games and broken defensive records. Two of their attackers became capped Matildas and they have a young, talented squad that deserve to be crowned premiers once again.
Speaking after the game, Sydney FC’s Nat Tobin spoke of her initial reaction to claiming the Premier’s Plate. “I almost cried there, it’s just so exciting, we’ve had the best season and to be rewarded for it is incredible and I’m so, so proud of the girls.
“We’ve got a young team and we lost some really good players last season and I think we had that expectation to win because we did so well, so it’s really overwhelming.”
Head coach Ante Juric was a proud man after the game: “It’s been a fantastic season by the squad. We have worked hard and deserve this Premiership.
“We have been consistent in our levels of performance, which is a credit to the attitude of these girls. It is hard to continually be successful and always be at the top, as everyone steps up against us and wants to beat us. We embrace this and know it’s a privilege to be in this situation.
“For the club to win the Premiership for a second straight year is a great achievement and a rare achievement. We know there is more to do and more to achieve as we prepare for Finals, but we are focussed and driven to keep working hard to succeed.”
Melbourne City travelled to play the Wanderers with a chance to jump into first place place in the league. A win against Western Sydney would mean that Sydney FC would need at least a draw against the in-form Adelaide United to retain the title.
Although the hosts were out on finals contention and still without Byrleeh Henry or Sarah Gallagher, they had pride to play for. A loss to City could potentially result in them finishing bottom of the ladder, an unthinkable result for the club in a season that began in optimism.
Melbourne City began with Caitlin Karic upfront. The 16-year-old NPLW star was playing as the centre-forward with Rhianna Pollicina in support and Hannah Wilkinson roaming the flanks for much of the game.
The Wanderers welcomed back Alex Huynh to the bench and began with Ashlie Crofts up front who was looking for score for the third game running.
City were in a precarious position. They needed to win, but also had to rest players as the “Football Frenzy” came to a conclusion.
Tyla-Jay Vlajnic and Rebekah Stott began on the bench but Rado Vidosic’s team has developed significant depth during the campaign and were solid favourites to take out the three points.
The first real chance of the game came in the 20th minute. Rhianna Pollicina took possession outside of the area and cleverly created space with a shift of her feet and a slight change of direction. Her shot from outside the box was low, hard, and beat Sarah Langman. It was the playmakers’ seventh goal of the season and as usual, it was done in some style.
Above: Melbourne City celebrate Rhianna Pollicina’s goal. Photo: Melbourne City.
Crofts almost pulled one back for Western Sydney but her shot crashed off the woodwork. She has been one of the good news stories to come out of a tough season. Crofts is a confident, unpredictable, and powerful forward and has given the Wanderers fans something to cheer for.
The goal aside, the first half was relatively even. City were in control at the break but Wanderers were not out of the contest. Crofts had a second half chance to level the scores again after some good team build-up play, but uncharacteristically mistimed her effort from directly in front of goal.
For all of City’s dominance, clear chances on goal were hard to come by. Tori Tunmeth had the best effort when she met a corner kick at full pace but her header flew over the bar.
Hannah Wilkinson entered the match two goals behind Fiona Worts in the race for the Golden Boot. In the 73rd minute, she took a step closer to catching the Adelaide star with she received the ball wide with only Caitlin Cooper to beat.
Wilkinson sized up her options, knocked the ball ahead, and surged past Cooper to finish beyond Langman and bring her season tally up to 12 goals.
With the result seemingly secured, the mission to catch Worts became the focus of neutral and City fans. Wilkinson was played in on goal by Pollicina but she unselfishly returned the pass instead of shooting. Pollicina’s curling shot glanced agonizingly off the bar when it looked likely to bounce in.
Above: Melbourne City’s Chelsie Blissett (left) battles with Western Sydney Wanderers’ Alexia Apostolakis. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers.
The New Zealand striker had another chance to score a second when she headed well toward an empty net. Somehow the woodwork denied her again and it looked it like it was not meant to be.
The match ended 2-0. It was an unfussy, expected win by City. They took the opportunity to not only rest some players but to give others some much-needed minutes.
Sally James was brought on for Melissa Barbieri and responded with an encouraging display. Her close-range stop from Rosie Galea’s effort was a highlight of the second half.
Leticia McKenna entered in place of Karic and did well to forge an opportunity to score but Sarah Langman responded with what is likely the save of the round. The Wanderers keeper dove the wrong way but managed to stick a foot out to prevent a third goal.
With Adelaide United and hosting Sydney FC a few hours later, City’s players had done all they could, not they could watch the next match in support of The Reds who had every chance of beating the reigning premiers at home.
Above: Manchester City lift the Conti Cup at Plough Lane last night. Photo: FAWSL.
By Darrell Allen(6/3/22)
For the first time ever Chelsea and Manchester City went head to head in a major final. The 2022 Conti Cup final was played at a sold out Plough Lane, the home of AFC Wimbledon.
Both teams came into the game in form but Chelsea were without Fran Kirby who was ill and Jessie Fleming who tested positive for Covid.
Chelsea started the game much the brighter with an early Harder cross missed by Kerr. The cup holders continued the pressure. Ji played the Australian in once more, but it was covered well in the Manchester City defence by Alex Greenwood.
Chelsea kept up their excellent press in search of an opener and it was Ellie Roebuck in the Manchester City goal who had to punch clear to further deny Kerr.
City then went on the attack, Jess Carter intercepted but played a ball back to Berger who took a big touch and almost played herself into trouble but it was just cleared away.
Above: Lucy Bronze (left) battles with Guro Reiten at the Conti Cup Final last night. Photo: FAWSL.
That was a wake-up call Chelsea needed, as they then went up the other end. Again, there was great movement from Ji who found Pernille Harder, but the move was read well by Roebuck who dealt with the pressure.
A Guro Reiten cross was cleared by Greenwood. Chelsea then had a penalty appeal turned down when Kennedy handled but the referee was unsighted.
The game was end to end as Raso then found White but it came to nothing. Stanway had a half chance which fell to White who fired over the bar but the flag was up for offside.
City were getting in the groove, A Stanway ball in and it was Lauren Hemp who fired against the post. City then had their penalty appeal turned down as Hayley Raso’s shot hit the arm of Sophie Ingle but penalty appeals were waved away.
Action then switched to the other end of the pitch. Greenwood and Roebuck were very causal. Harder intercepted but no finish.
Chelsea then took the lead, an instinctive finish from Sam Kerr after a Reiten cross and mix-up between Roebuck and Demi Stokes allowed Kerr was to finish.
Above: Sam Kerr celebrates with Millie Bright after putting Chelsea ahead. Photo: FAWSL.
Niamh Charles had an opportunity to double Chelsea’s advantage with a great chest down and control but she fired over the bar. Half Time arrived with Chelsea deservedly leading 1-0.
An inspired half time team talk from Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor saw them come out for the second 45 minutes with their heads up.
The equalizer soon arrived, Georgia Stanway to Caroline Weir who was in acres of space following Charles being off the pitch after colliding with an advertising hoarding. Weir took a touch before firing into the corner.
It was a good reply from Chelsea, a strike from Charles but Roebuck saved. However, this would prove to be the last serious chance that Emma Hayes’ side would fashion.
City then took the lead, Hemp danced around the Chelsea defence before drilling the ball across, Berger spilled and Ellen White was there to finish.
Above: Ellen White’s delight after putting Manchester City in front. Photo: FAWSL.
A series of Manchester City corners by Stanway followed, the best of which saw Kennedy head wide.
City increased their lead after a Stanway corner was headed down by Bronze, Ingle cleared into the path of Caroline Weir who fired into the top corner to make it a personal brace and three goals in 20 minutes from City.
The Sky Blues continued to press. Stanway’s corner was played in, Bronze headed on but Raso couldn’t finish after Berger spilled.
Chelsea were in a mess as Manchester City dominated. Gareth Taylor’s side were able to see the clock down with relative ease and without fear with a two-goal cushion.
Chelsea did look brighter after Bethany England was introduced but they never really looked like getting back into it. It was Manchester City who take England’s first silverware of the domestic season.
Sunday sees two huge matches which will decide the destination of the Premier’s Plate. Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard the pre-match views ofMelbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic whose team face Western Sydney Wanderers, along with Adelaide United head coach Adrian Stenta and defender Kayla Sharples ahead of their game with leaders Sydney FC(5/3/22).
Above: Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic at today’s pre-game media conference. Photo: Melbourne City.
Melbourne City go into their game at Western Sydney Wanderers knowing that if they can win and third-placed Adelaide United defeat Sydney, then his team will win the Premier’s plate.
Preparations for the game have been impacted by the match in Parramatta being pushed back to Sunday to aid with pitch drainage after heavy rain in the area. Vidosic believes that extra day will benefit his team.
“We’ve had an extra day to rest. We had a day off on Friday. That is good for us. Physically we are ready. They could have played our game and the Sydney one simultaneously as that was good when Melbourne Victory and Perth Glory’s ones were (on Friday when both sides were contesting the final spot in the top four), but I’m not privy to the decisions of the APL, Paramount and Channel 10. They make decisions for the good of the game.”
In terms of injuries and availability, City’s head coach had good news to report. “There are no major concerns going into the game. We will finalize our squad and starting 11 when we arrive. We want to give the girls as long as possible, it’s been a disrupted build-up and we need to ensure no one is exposed to risk, but we are needing to win.”
In terms of how his team perform tomorrow, Vidosic does not see any danger of complacency taking on a struggling team in Wanderers. For him, it will be all about mental attitude having played a game on Tuesday night.
“We have tried to refresh them as much as we could over these past few days. If we can play to our best, we expect to win the game. Our we play will depend on how mentally focussed we are. If we get that right, we will have a good performance and every chance to win the game.”
Above: Kayla Sharples speaking to the media this week at Marden. Photo: Adelaide United.
Adelaide United defender Kayla Sharples spoke of her excitement at the team’s achievement of making their first W-/A-League Women’s Finals berth. She also warned the other teams in the top four – including Saturday’s opponents Sydney FC – that Adelaide United want to do some serious damage in the Finals.
“Last week’s game was crucial, to get that win (over Melbourne Victory) and lock in Finals. It’s my first season, but I know how much it means to the team and the club. I just wanted to make an impact and I’m loving my time here. But, we’re not done yet!”
Reflecting on game with Victory last weekend, Sharples was pleased with how the team grew into the match. “We did have a slow start, but we knew they would press high, so we just had to ride that wave, which we did.
“Scoring three goals against them was massive. We also wanted redemption after losing a lot of goals against them. We’re really connecting and being relentless right now. There are no limits to what we can do. After the final whistle, we were so excited, but there was an element of relief. For us, this year to lock in the Finals with a game ahead was important.
“We’re very hungry. We’re not content with where we are. I don’t think we’ve hit our peak yet. When we play our best, there are no limits. We can definitely make it to the last game and win a championship for the first time.”
Whilst Adelaide United’s goal-scoring prowess has taken the headlines this season, Sharples was keen to shine a light on their backline, which she has been a crucial part of.
“I’ve loved working with the girls at the back with me – Matilda (McNamara), Izzy (Hodgson). We’re a relentless unit. We put our bodies on the line and will do everything we can to prevent the ball going into the net. We have a crucial relationship and it’s part of our success.”
The American believes that the time is right to be facing league leaders Sydney FC. “I’m happy to play Sydney last as we’re hitting our stride. It’s the best time to play them. They are a great team with a lot of talent, they are well-coached. But we’re getting better and better. At the end of the day, we want to win and get more goals so we’re in good form going into Finals.”
Above: Adelaide United head coach Adrian Stenta speaking to the media on Friday. Photo: Adelaide United.
Adelaide United head coach Adrian Stenta opened his discussion with the media on Thursday by placing his team’s Finals qualification in context.
“Its significant because of our club’s history. It’s been a long time to play in a competition without making Finals. We’re really proud to represent the club in the Finals and everyone who has played for and represented the club down the years on the journey.”
Stenta knows that his team are playing consistently well at present, and as such he feels that they are capable of going a long way in the Finals.
“I’m extremely confident and the players’ confidence is growing. We are in good form coming into Finals and it’s good to play Sydney on Sunday as it is a good indicator as to where we are coming into the Finals.”
Looking back at the win over Melbourne Victory last weekend that clinched his team’s place in the top four with a game to spare, Adelaide’s head coach was pleased about his team’s ruthlessness when chances came their way.
“It was an interesting game. There were times when we didn’t have a lot of the ball, so Victory probably shaded us in terms of possession, but I thought we were clinical with the ball and did well with the ball in possession. We scored goals. The goal at the start of the second half was important.
“We’ve got multiple avenues to goal. It doesn’t bother me who scores them, it’s about just scoring. It does though make it difficult for the opposition knowing we have so many avenues to scoring. I’ve been so pleased with Chelsie (Dawber) and Fiona (Worts)’ contributions all year.”
Stenta also highlighted the importance of his team’s defence and pointed to continual improvements throughout the campaign.
“Keeping clean sheets is something that we focussed on after we conceded quite a few at the start of the season. I thought our structure was positive last weekend against Victory. They had a fair bit of the ball, so to defend as well as we did and deny them goalscoring opportunities was very pleasing.”
Looking ahead to Sunday’s game, Adelaide’s head coach knows his team will have their hands full, but is confident that they can win.
“Playing Sydney is always a difficult game. They are a side that has kept their playing staff and coaching staff very consistent. We know what to expect. One of the quirks of the draw this season is that we’ve played some teams twice and yet we haven’t met Sydney until the last day of the season. We’ll see how it stacks up and we’re keen to have a go at them.”
When it comes to team selection, Stenta was clear – there will be no resting players ahead of Finals. It’s all about going for the win.
“I’m a simple guy. I don’t look at ‘what ifs’ or resting players. I’ve made it clear to the players that I want to win whether it’s games in training or actual matches. We’ll go into the game putting out the strongest team we can possibly field.”
Above: Perth Glory’s New Zealand international Liz Anton (left) competes in the air. Photo: Perth Glory.
By Ben Gilby (5/3/22)
Perth Glory’s superb season ended with a mixture of disappointment and pride as they missed out on Finals football on just goal difference from Melbourne Victory.
Virtually no one unconnected to the Western Australian club expected Alex Epakis’ side to perform so well this season. Add in the fact that this is a team that only played one home game and have been forced to spend the last two and a half months based in New South Wales, it just adds to their outstanding achievement.
Glory made several changes in their matchday squad with key player Mie Leth Jans missing due to a fractured left wrist with Sadie Lawrence coming in. Liz Anton returned from international duty from New Zealand, and Aideen Keane, who scored off of the bench against Sydney FC in Launceston last week, made her first start of the season. Morgan Aquino replaced Courtney Newbon in goal.
A lively opening saw both Susan Phonsongkham and Hana Lowry prominent for Glory. The latter was popping up in central midfield and on both flanks and driving the game from all areas for her side.
Phoenix’s 18-year-old Alyssa Whinham has had a meteoric rise this season, and she came the closest for her side in the opening quarter of an hour with a low effort going narrowly wide of the left-hand post.
With 22 minutes gone, Perth were awarded a free-kick after Sarah Cain was fouled by Hannah Jones centrally, around 40 yards from goal. Glory set-piece specialist Deborah-Ann de la Harpe lifted a ball in towards Hintzen on the left of the box. The American used her strength and guile to win a corner from Te Reremoana Walker.
The flag-kick was a vicious inswinger from de la Harpe and was met with a back flick header from captain Tash Rigby which was turned into her own net by Isabel Gomez who couldn’t get her feet sorted to clear properly.
Above: Perth Glory’s Hana Lowry, who had a particularly influential first half. Photo: Perth Glory.
Wellington responded well with Grace Jale, who had been in good goalscoring form, trying to create via the left-hand side.
Perth continued to be dangerous from set-pieces with Lowry bending a succession of corners from the right under the Phoenix crossbar. Her former team-mate Lily Alfeld, though under heavy pressure from the corners, managed to deal with them without the concession of any further goals.
It was the Western Australians who had the best of the second period as they looked to add further goals to boost their chances of making Finals.
Just after the hour mark, another set piece led to their second. de la Harpe curled in a free kick on the left just outside the box. Rigby got up for the header, Phoenix cleared, but only as far as a Glory shirt. Anton got away down the right and fired a ball across for Hintzen at the near post to volley first time into the top of the net. It was her fifth goal in nine games.
Less than two minutes later, Phoenix gifted Perth another goal. Gomez conceded a free kick in her own half for pushing Lowry in the back. Phonsongkham took the set-piece quickly looking to release Keane, but Kate Taylor looked to have everything under control. However, the Phoenix vice captain got her body in completely the wrong position which allowed the Glory striker to race through unmarked and she fire home past Alfeld.
Two minutes later, Lowry almost made it four when she escaped through the middle and let fly from outside the box which went narrowly over the bar.
Perth continued to push, but could not add to their tally. On the other side of the ledger, as they have done significantly in recent weeks, Phoenix kept fighting. Whinham continued to pose problems.
Above: Perth Glory captain Tash Rigby (left) challenges for the ball. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
With seven minutes remaining, Lisa De Vanna came on for what could be her final A-League appearance – although there will be many in Perth hoping that they will actually be able to watch their home town hero play in front of them next season – something that only happened once this campaign.
Wellington threatened in the closing six minutes and got a reward. Initially, a shot from just outside the left hand edge of the box cannoned back off the bar. As it bounced down, Abbey Green was adjudged to have fouled Cushla Rue. Referee Rachael Mitchenson pointed to the spot. Grace Jale stepped up to dispatch the spot kick for her sixth goal of the season despite Morgan Aquino getting a hand to the effort as it squeezed into the bottom left hand corner.
That was as close as Phoenix got – but they have so much to be proud of this season. If the season was just a week or two longer they would have been likely to avoid the wooden spoon. They have come a long way, and the league is a better place for their presence.
After the game, Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis reflected on a superb season for his team.
“First and foremost, we need to take a step back and look at the broader picture. Look where we were twelve months ago, look at all the challenges we’ve had this season and the hurdles we’ve had to clear. We’ve achieved so much by overcoming those hurdles and that is even before we think about what we achieved on the field.
“Those challenges have been immense. To be able to overcome them as well as have the success we had on the field, despite not making Finals, we have won something.
“The performance today, we wanted to go out with a bang and we certainly achieved that. I was aware of the scenario in the other fixture (Melbourne Victory v Canberra United), we were trying to block it out. It’s unfortunate, but we have to take stock of what we’ve done. We’re definitely disappointed.
“There is a huge sentiment of being proud but there was a disappointment knowing we wanted to compete with the best all year, and to do that in the Finals would have been magnificent.”
Epakis spoke of the mixed emotions in the group after the final whistle when he addressed the huddle.
“There was a level of emptiness, but I made sure that we were clear. I said from the start I didn’t want to put a cap on what success would look like for this season, and I think it has been a success this season.”
With Glory being forced on the road for so long this season, their head coach reflected on the close bond that has been formed and how hard it will now be to part for seven or eight months.
“When you live together for close to two and a half months every day, you do form that family bond. When any family separates, it’s always hard. I will certainly feel empty when we all go our separate ways. We’ve all put so much into this season. For it all to just stop is a bit of a shock to the system.”
Epakis knows that this season’s results and performances are just the start in a bright future for his side longer-term. A big part of that is keeping the squad together.
“We did a big recruit last season and signed a lot of players to a longer-term commitment. We want to maintain and retain the core of this group. We all know the trajectory that we are going in. I believe that a lot of the players are invested in this. I would love to work with these players again next year and beyond”.
Above: Despite Grace Jale’s late penalty, Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis felt that her team were well beaten. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
Conversely, Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis told media post-game that it “wasn’t our greatest performance” and the scoreline “was probably a fair reflection of the game”.
“We knew the two-day turnaround was going to be hard and to get an own goal in the first half wasn’t really something that set us on the greatest path,” Lewis said.
“As soon as it went two-nil the girls went quite flat. I think it’s hard when you have a two-day turnaround to find that second gear when you’re two-nil down to drive and get three goals.
“I was hoping they could do it with the adrenaline and the emotional charge of it being the last game, but they’ve given so much for us throughout the season that it didn’t really surprise me that they didn’t have much left in the tank at that point.”
Above: Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Casey Dumont comes out to claim ahead of Canberra United’s Michelle Heyman. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
By Kieran Yap(5/3/22)
Melbourne Victory hosted Canberra United with their finals hopes in the balance. It had been just over a week since the sides last met in a dramatic 2-2 draw and a similar result would likely be enough for Victory to finish fourth.
Despite the precarious position, Jeff Hopkins did not start with anything that could be mistaken for a defensive side. Canberra arrived with nothing to play for but pride, and what resulted was an end-to-end game that had both coaches and the AAMI Park crowd on edge.
Victory’s first chance arrived from the artistry of Kyra Cooney-Cross. Deployed in a more attacking role, she had free reign alongside Alex Chidiac. She twisted and turned on the edge of the box before threading a ball through to Catherine Zimmerman. Chloe Lincoln did very well to come out and save at her feet.
Allira Toby fired Canberra United’s first shot. She raced in on goal and cut inside, but her shot was not enough to test Casey Dumont. The Victory keeper was a surprise inclusion after leaving the field on a stretcher against Adelaide United, and showed her value on multiple occasions this afternoon.
Alex Chidiac thought she had scored with a spectacular effort. Her corner kick swung inward and dipped under the bar. It bounced off the far post and both her and Lia Privitelli were in half-celebration before they realized it did not cross the line.
Chidiac tried again after combining with Cooney-Cross. She twisted one way, then the other but her Lincoln was positioned well to claim it.
Above: Harriet Withers shields the ball against Canberra United. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
It was an enthralling, thrilling contest that did nothing to sooth the nerves of Victory fans. There was plenty of space but both sides’ defenders were playing well individually. Lauren Keir has been essential to Canberra United’s late-season resurgence and was on hand on multiple occasions to make life difficult for the talented attack.
For Victory, Cooney-Cross was tormenting the Canberra defence. The visitors had their own weapon in Michelle Heyman. The captain received the ball wide on the right in a crossing position. Instead, she cut inside, then changed direction despite having no obvious space to do so. Dumont got down to deny her a potential goal of the week.
Victory introduced Harriet Withers and the long-awaited Melina Ayres in the second half. Ayres’ impact was almost instant, she nearly turned a cross in but her half-volleyed through ball to Withers was a reminder of her considerable talent. Withers raced in to goal but Lincoln saved very well from a position where scoring looked certain.
Heyman had fired up for the visitors. She took the direct route and burs through Canberra’s defence. Her shot was right at Dumont and Victory fans were able to pick their hearts up off the floor.
Victory had two more chances to take the lead. Cooney-Cross hit the woodwork after making space in midfield. Her long-range shot beat Lincoln but crashed off the post.
Ayres was almost the hero late but just missed Withers’ cross with a diving effort. The game ended in a draw and Victory’s players did not celebrate immediately.
Above: Melina Ayres’ return was a big boost for Melbourne Victory. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
Either they were unaware it was enough to get them through to the finals or they were exhausted after one of the most gruelling schedules in domestic football history.
With Ayres back, and two central defenders they suddenly look a much more functional team with depth and tactical options on the bench. That Melinda Barbieri was not included in a very strong matchday squad is a signal of what Hopkins has at his disposal.
It has been a rough season on the Victory players and they can now hopefully have a few days off to unwind and recover properly.
Canberra lost no admirers in this game. They were exciting and adventurous. The defence has finally settled after early-season difficulties and Vicki Linton has clearly worked out the best mix in attack. Heyman did was she always does, which is paradoxically something we haven’t seen before.
This is not their last game scheduled this season, but she must go on another year on the strength of her recent performances. Canberra suddenly look a very good side and are victims of the short season.
Newcastle renamed the Number Two Sportsground after the record-breaking Cass Davis for their match against Brisbane Roar.
The stands were packed and the atmosphere celebratory as the club and community acknowledged her run of 110 consecutive league games.
Brisbane Roar arrived after suffering one of the most difficult lead-ups to a game imaginable.
The city had been damaged by torrential rain and dangerous floods. The team had been unable to travel safely to training and Holly McQueen’s house was submerged in the devastating week for Queensland.
They were also without the suspended Shea Connors. The winger was Brisbane’s leading scorer coming into the game and had set up the winning goal against Melbourne City.
Newcastle had their own squad problems and could only name a bench of two outfield players.
A scrappy start from both sides was typified by a bizarre passage of play. Brisbane attacked and the ball from Katrina Gorry bounced off the crossbar before it appeared to have been handled twice.
Above: Newcastle Jets legend Cassidy Davis is welcomed onto the Number Two Sportsground pitch last night. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
The referee did not see it amid the chaos and it was cleared but soon after The Roar made no mistake.
Gorry knitted play together in midfield with a combination of passes before splitting the Jets defence to find the running Anna Margraf.
She used one touch to go around Claire Coelho and the second tucked it away to put Roar up 1-0
Margraf has been one of Brisbane’s better players this season and has perhaps been a victim of her own versatility. She started off the season as an attacking midfielder, then shifted into defence, on this occasion she was playing upfront in place of Connors.
Getting the best out of her next season should one of Brisbane’s priorities. This was her third goal of the year.
The Jets almost levelled the score as the game opened up. Sophie Harding raced beyond the Roar defence but delayed her shot slightly too long. Jamilla Rankin raced back to snuff out the danger with a perfect sliding block.
The potential Matilda has developed from an exciting full-back to a very quick and committed central defender this season. It is a move that has increased the potential for the player, her club, and possibly the national team in future.
Brisbane added a second after Gorry played Rie Kitano into space. She squared the ball to Larissa Crummer who had no trouble tapping into an open goal to double the lead.
Ash Brodigan responded for the home side. Her turn on the edge of the box was excellent and created space. Her shot was hit hard and too high. Isabella Shuttleworth in the Brisbane goal was untroubled by the effort despite the impressive build-up.
In a move that summed up the game, Crummer immediately scored again, Brisbane went straight up the other end and the former Golden Boot winner sped beyond the Jets backline. She composed herself and finished well to make it 4-0.
She brought up her hattrick soon after with a well-headed goal following a corner kick. Crummer has been guilty of some near misses this season, but rediscovered her touch in front of goal with three very good finishes.
Above: It was a profitable night in front of goal for Brisbane Roar’s Larissa Crummer. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Newcastle finally pulled one back when Brodigan found Lauren Allen. The winger showed her usual balance and composure to make it 4-1 and temporarily give Newcastle a lifeline. Allen is always dangerous running toward goal and showed her class to beat Shuttleworth for the first time in two games.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished when Hollie Palmer intercepted the ball in midfield. Her dipping, curling, and very deliberate shot was the best goal of a game that featured six.
Palmer has been limited by injuries this season but this stunning goal was a reminder of what the young playmaker can do with a ball.
Fewer teams will have had a tougher preparation than Brisbane Roar and this was a fantastic, emphatic win under difficult circumstances.
Above: Brisbane Roar’s togetherness in overcoming adversity was the key to their big win at Newcastle Jets. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Newcastle Jets are limping toward to end of the season with a depleted squad and constantly shifting schedule.
Nevertheless, despite the circumstances, it was an entertaining game of football to end off a dramatic and drama-filled Friday night of Dub.
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