Pride In Defeat

Pride Park 0-4 Draycott Victoria

Above: Pride Park’s Rachel Weaver, who had an impressive performance on Sunday. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

By Doug Outt (13/4/22)

Pride Park knew the Derbyshire Ladies League Division One leaders will have been stung by their first defeat of the season at their hands last week and – whilst, in all probability, it only delayed the inevitable – that there would be a reaction from them in the second of two consecutive games at Moorways on Sunday yesterday. However, boosted by last weekend’s win it was a challenge that the home side were looking forward to.

There was a late change to the starting eleven, as Maja Znamirowska was held up by a motorway accident, but otherwise, The Pride had the unusual sight of an almost full bench.

Both teams were joined for the walk-out by mascots from #ThePride U8 and U9s who also enjoyed a penalty shoot-out on the pitch at half-time.

Above: Members of Pride Park’s U8s and U9s meet the players pre-game. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Pride Park FC.

Pride Park made a bright start to the game and enjoyed good possession and territory in the opening stages. There was an early shot from distance by Sayavong that drifted wide, before a really good chance for Bryan after a powerful run down the left took her clear and into the box but her shot cleared the crossbar.

It was a high tempo game, broken up by a series of free-kicks – a yellow card being shown to a Draycott player for a late challenge on Pride’s Weaver. The teams were like two boxers circling each other in the ring, throwing the odd jab but looking for the opportunity to land a decisive blow – which came from the visitors after 25 minutes. A high bouncing ball down the Pride Park left was headed on by a Draycott player for a half-volley lob from the edge of the area.

It was a setback, but Pride Park responded well – Jones had a shot saved, and Sayavong and Znamirowska had shots but were unable to work the goalkeeper. As the half was ending, there was a scramble in the Park goalmouth, but Weaver and Sayavong combined to block the chance and clear for a corner, which came to nothing. 

Above: Eliot Sayavong who was a key player for Pride Park on Sunday. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

Pride Park had edged the first half, both in terms of overall play and chances created – but it was Draycott who went in ahead at half-time.

The second half started in much the same vein as the first half – a foul on Znamirowska giving Pride Park a free kick on the angle of the penalty area. Weaver took the kick, curling an inswinging shot in towards the far corner and forcing the keeper to turn it behind. 

The game was more or less decided as The Pride lost concentration at the back, allowing balls in from the left to find an unmarked player to hit her shot home – three times in five minutes – to effectively seal the game for Draycott.

Despite this, the home side rallied and pushed in search of at least a consolation goal, creating several good chances; Bryan putting in a low cross that first Allderidge and then Evans were only inches away from putting in. Evans had a couple of good chances after beating defenders – putting a shot over when clear – and seeing another shot slip through the keeper’s hands, but she recovered just in time to prevent the goal. Znamirowska also shot wide, and had a shot blocked on the line, and it was confirmed it was going to be that kind of day when Bryan skipped through two tackles in the box and her shot was blocked, only to ricochet against her, up onto the crossbar and over! 

Above: Lottie Bryan in possession for Pride Park. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.

It was particularly disappointing for Pride Park to concede in the way they did in that costly five-minute spell, as they otherwise defended well and largely contained the threat from Draycott. The Pride had more than matched the league leaders and created enough good chances for the game to have – potentially – even finished in a draw, but having been ruthlessly efficient in front of goal in recent games, their eye for goal, or luck, deserted them on Sunday, whilst Draycott took their chances well. 

It was a battling and committed performance all round. Sayavong and Allderidge were again outstanding together in centre midfield, Bryan was a constant threat down the left, and Ayton did well in reverting to her original right of midfield role for this game.

The win for Draycott means only Borrowash Victoria can catch them now, but two more wins for Draycott will seal the title, even if Borrowash win their remaining games. There’s no game for Pride Park this Sunday, with the next fixture being at Borrowash Victoria on Sunday 24th April (1.30pm ko).

Artwork: Graphics by PW.

Percival Injury: What Does This Mean For Spurs?

Impetus welcomes new contributor Rachel Lara Cohen from the Spurs Women Fansite. In this her first article, she highlights the importance of Ria Percival to Tottenham and ponders what the serious injury that she suffered on international duty means for the Super League side (12/4/22).

Above: Ria Percival – a key member of the Tottenham Hotspur team. Photo: Getty Images.

Last Friday in Townsville, Australia during the fifteenth minute of a dramatic friendly between New Zealand and Australia women’s teams, Ria Percival went down. There was no contact, it was no one’s fault.

But, unlike the innumerable times this season that we’ve seen Ria get fouled or watched as she’s gone in for a tackle, end up on the ground and then brush herself off and get up again with nothing worse than a muddy shirt, this time she didn’t get up. It was immediately obvious that what had occurred was serious. She was helped off the field grimacing.

The next day New Zealand Ferns coach Jitka Klimková confirmed that it was an anterior cruciate ligament injury: “Ria has gone back to her club, Tottenham. She is so important for us. It is a long-term injury, an ACL injury to her left knee. Depending on the assessment she will out for the rest of the year.” This has now been confirmed by Tottenham. She’s being treated by Spurs’ medical team and should have the best possible support.

Obviously, this is terrible for Ria, and we wish her a speedy recovery. It’s also bad news for Ria’s national team the New Zealand Ferns, for whom she plays a key role (not to mention being the most capped New Zealand player ever).

And of course, it’s bad news for Spurs Women.

Ria’s role for Spurs Women

Ria has been a core part of Rehanne Skinner’s team (see article on Ria from February). She has started every WSL game this season. Indeed, across the seventeen games to date, Ria has played all but 19 minutes so far (only Molly Bartrip been on the field for more minutes).

Ria’s statistics indicate some part of her role in the team. For instance, she is sixth in the league for key passes and she has scored two goals and has two assists (her xA, or expected goal assists, is actually 3.3, placing her ninth in the league, but given the team’s finishing problems goals have not always resulted where they were statistically likely). Ria’s defensive figures are also strong. She has made 54 tackles of which she’s won 34 (a figure that puts her second only to Ashleigh Neville among Spurs Women players and fourth in the WSL). Most of her tackles (33) have been in the middle third of the pitch, where she has made more tackles this season than any other Spurs player.

Above: Great stats for a great player. Tottenham Hotspur’s Ria Percival. Photo: Getty Images.

The fact that these strengths span different areas of play are a huge part of Percival’s importance to Spurs Women: she is an enormously versatile and intelligent player. Over this term, the Football Fern has played at right-back, defensive midfield, at the wing, and as a forward.

In many games she starts in midfield but seems to have the leeway to roam forwards, getting into the box and pressing high, but also dropping back into defence where needed. Meanwhile, Ria’s midfield tackling is a sign of her work rate and the part she plays in chasing down players and reducing their time on the ball, something that has been essential in producing the defensive solidity that the 2021-2 Spurs Team has become known for.

What are Spurs’ options if Ria is unavailable?

Ria has provided an option at right-back that has allowed head coach Rehanne Skinner to move Ashleigh Neville higher up the field (e.g. at home against Manchester City, where it partially worked). Given our problems with scoring and Ash’s speed on the break unleashing her higher up the pitch may be critical if we’re going to create goal-scoring opportunities, especially against stronger teams where there is not a lot of space (and a reminder that we’re yet to play Arsenal or Chelsea (twice)). Moreover, with no Ria in midfield, Ashleigh Neville’s tackling may become needed further forward.

For this to work we will need an alternative at right-back. The most obvious answer is Asmita Ale. Ale has only started seven games (many of these coming before Kerys Harrop nailed down her position at left-back), but Ale recently played at right-back away at Birmingham to excellent effect. The only other defensive player in the squad is Viktoria Schnaderbeck (who has so far been a relatively under-used loan-signing from Arsenal). From what I’ve seen Vikky is more of a central defender, meaning that her inclusion requires more rejigging – and risks disrupting the central partnership of Bartrip and Zadorsky.

Conversely, of course, if Neville stays at right-back we may stymie her attacking guile and midfield tackling, but would keep what has typically been the first choice back four (Neville, Bartrip, Zadorsky and Harrop).

In midfield

This is where Percival has most often played, typically in front of Maéva Clemaron, who occupies a defensive role in the engine room of midfield. And, over the last run of games, alongside Evelina Summanen. Summanen has become a regular starter since her January transfer and like Ria she plays as a flexible attack-minded hard-tackling midfielder, making 16 tackles and taking eight shots in her four starts (five games) in the WSL. With Ria out, Evelina’s part in the team may become even more critical. That means, that with Summanen and Clemaron a lock-in central midfield we could have Ashleigh Neville and Jessica Naz on the wing, and Rachel Williams and Kyah Simon in front.

Other options

There are a few other options in the squad, but finding options that retain our whole-team defensive energy while releasing players to go forward, are limited.

Above: Rosella Ayane – an outside chance of helping to plug the gap left by Ria Percival’ injury. Photo: Andy Rowland / PMI / Imago.

If Neville remains at right-back, Rosella Ayane is a possibility on the wing. But she has been consistently – and frustratingly – ineffective this season, at times seeming to lose concentration. Angela Addison is another possibility. She has demonstrated her ability to find space in the box, but can find herself bullied off the ball and in her numerous substitute appearances has too often seemed peripheral (although this may just be a lack of game-time).

A different approach would be to bring Josie Green into midfield, allowing Summanen to move forward or out wide. Josie’s been reliable but hasn’t regained the rhythm of a couple of years ago (and has remained down the pecking order from Clemaron, Summanen, and Percvial). Cho So-Hyun also plays in central midfield and could be more of a replacement for Ria, but has only shown glimpses of what she can do since joining Spurs and does not always seem interested in the harrying or pressing aspects of how this team is set up to play.

The other options are less useful in terms of filling the Ria-size-hole: Tang Jiali is more of a pure striker, and yet to make a mark, while Chioma Ubogagu, who had occasional good games in the Autumn, is either injured or has been otherwise side-lined, not appearing in the squad since January.

If the main point is to replicate the pressing game (especially in the attacking and midfield thirds) that Ria is so good at, Green or Addison perhaps come closest, but there is no like-for-like replacement.

Moreover, and somewhat ironically perhaps, it is clear that Ria’s flexibility has previously provided the manager with options in making substitutions, insofar as Ria could be moved to accommodate the introduction of other, less flexible, players. Therefore, Ria’s absence is not just a hole, but also makes it harder to resolve the jigsaw puzzle of team selection and make best use of those players that remain.

All of which is to say that Ria will be hugely missed.

It will be Rehanne Skinner who now has the complicated task of deciding how to reconfigure the team to accommodate her absence. Of course, Skinner has already performed miracles this season in getting this Spurs team to where it is challenging at the top half of the table. So, here’s hoping she’s got another miracle up her sleeve. She’s got a couple of weeks before our next game, to come up with it.

Till then we’re all sending lots of good wishes to Ria – and to her teammates and coaches, all of whom must be devasted by news of her injury.

This article was originally published on the Spurs Women Blogsite. https://spurswomen.uk/

NWGFL Round-Up

By Darrell Allen with contributions from Stuart Terry (12/4/22)

Above: Thetford Town interim captain Melissa Boulton (left) presents Beccles Town captain Lola Barber-King with a bouquet of flowers for her teammate Mae who suffered a serious injury in February. Photo: Hannah Parnell.

A warm afternoon greeted Thetford Town and Beccles Town on Sunday afternoon for their Norfolk Women and Girls’ League Division One fixture.

Before the game Thetford interim captain Melissa Boulton presented a bouquet of flowers to her Beccles counterpart Lola Barber-King for the Beccles player Mae who was seriously injured in a road traffic accident in February and Thetford also donated £180 to Mae and her family following a club collection at the men’s and women’s games over the weekend.

Thetford were boosted before kick-off by the news that Becky Russell their dual signing from Wroxham was available for late selection after Wroxham’s game was postponed. Becky was named as one of Thetford substitutes but would later play a significant key role for David Skipp’s team at the heart of the Thetford defence. 

Above: Becky Russell in action for Thetford Town. She recently signed on a dual deal from Wroxham. Photo: Hannah Parnell.

The first 10 minutes saw an even contest before Thetford broke the deadlock on 14 minutes thanks to a delightful through ball by Abbie Corbyn that gave Chelsea Page the chance to round the keeper and give Thetford a one-nil lead. 

Thetford went on to dominate the game but a number of chances were missed before a deep cross by Boulton gave Hannah Claughton the chance to score her first goal for the club and a few minutes later Claughton made it a personal brace and a 3-0 lead for Thetford from a delightful three-player move that Claughton calmly slotted into the back of the net.

The second half started much the same as the first ended with Thetford pushing and probing at the Beccles defence and the inspirational and super talented Abbie Corbyn was at the heart of most of Thetford’s moves.

Above: Abbie Corbyn (right) in control for Thetford Town against Beccles Town. Photo: Hannah Parnell.

The super wing play of Boulton was causing all sorts of problems and Claughton completed a hat-trick with a delightful 20-yard lob over the keeper to round off a comfortable 4-0 win for Thetford.

The only downside of a very good Thetford performance was an injury to Boulton who was carried from the pitch in the 64th minute. 

Abbie Corbyn showed why she is so highly regarded with another great performance that won her the player of the match award.

With six fixtures to go before the end of the season, a top-four finish is still very much an achievable target for David Skipp’s talented squad.

NWGFL Division One Round-up

In the day’s other fixtures, leaders Mulbarton Belles made it 17 wins from 17 thanks to a 2-0 victory at Long Stratton. Goals from Sophie Jermy and Lucy Lincoln gave Martin Francis’ team all three points and leaving them only needing a draw at Thetford Town on Easter Sunday to secure the title.

Second place Fakenham Town ran out 9-0 winners at home to North Walsham thanks to a hat trick from Sophie Lubbock, a brace each from Olivia Barker and Aimee Hutchinson, and a goal each from Shelley Woods and Megan Spurrell.

Third place Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers fresh from reaching the NWGFL Plate Cup Final with a 5-2 win over Sprowston, this time travelled to Sprowston on Sunday and ran out 3-0 winners thanks to goals from Shanice Sutton, captain Calista Tink, and Tallulah Bell. An important three points as they keep up the pressure on second place Fakenham.

Table From FA Full-Time.

NWGFL Division Two Round-Up:

Third-placed King’s Lynn Soccer Club went level on points with second place UEA with a fine 6-1 win at Freethorpe. King’s Lynn’s goals came from Jordan Turner (hat-trick), Kersey Ramm, Sophie McNeill and Viktorija Burkauskaite.

In the day’s only other game fourth place Gorleston ran out 9-1 winners over Horsford thanks to four goals from Rebecca Waters and other strikes from Sienna Saunders, Mariana Lino, Hannah Halfnight, Megan Bartlett, and Kelsi Adams.

Table From: FA Full Time

Gustavsson and Klimková Reflect On Second Matildas v Football Ferns Clash

Impetus’ Ben Gilby was in the post-match media conference for us and heard from both Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson and New Zealand counterpart Jitka Klimková (12/4/22).

Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson saw positives and development points from his side in today’s game with New Zealand in Canberra. Photo: Football Australia.

Reflecting on how Australia played tonight, head coach Tony Gustavsson reflected: “We were mixed tonight. When we had speed of play, New Zealand couldn’t cope with our combination play and the way we were zipping the ball around. There were parts when we lacked concentration and New Zealand looked to catch us on the break and they could have scored one or two more goals. We need to learn from every moment. When we play fast we are difficult to stop.”

Gustavsson recognized that after her strong performance in Friday’s match, the Football Ferns were going to target reducing the threat of Katrina Gorry.

“I had a talk with ‘Mini’ (Gorry) about how they will have a plan to stop her. We too then had a plan to see how we could get her around that. She is so skilful that she can get away from pressure. She can turn on a dime. You saw that when she played in Mary (Fowler). She wasn’t as impactful as in the first game, but she still played well.”

The Matildas head coach insisted that there is clear progression in his side’s performances during this international window, but equally is aware there is still much to do.

“We internally have seen the progress and the journey for a while now even though result-wise that may not be obvious. We started to see good things in the first game with Brazil in 15-minute bursts and the last 30 minutes of the first half in the first game against the USA.

“We came into this camp saying we needed to believe in what we are doing and the process along with a cohesion and chemistry. The players have been patient with me as a coach with curveballs, rotations, and rosters I have thrown at them. Now we are narrowing it down with greater continuity. I think one of the reasons that we have seen better combination play during this camp is because we have more continuity in what we are doing.”

Tony Gustavsson, Australia head coach.

“There’s also the addition of players with different profiles who have given us a different dimension in how we are playing.”

Asked by Impetus’ Ben Gilby about the reduced intensity from Australia in the second half, Gustavsson admitted: “I think there was a drop-off. I made changes at that point because I wanted players to come on with energy and with something to prove to me as a head coach.

“I do also think there was a second wave of drop-off (around the 70-minute mark) and that was a good opportunity to practice game management. New Zealand took over and that was us letting them have the ball. We need to prepare for a World Cup scenario protecting leads and trying to be flexible. We need to train on those aspects going forward.”

Above: It was an impressive performance from Australia’s Hayley Raso. She spoke to the media after the game. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia’s Manchester City star Hayley Raso reflected on her superb goal when she spoke to the media after the match in Canberra.

“It’s always nice to get on the score sheet. We needed to be better in the final third. We’ve worked hard on that.

“We know that whoever plays combines well together. The cohesion is really there. We work on how to develop and get better and we can see how things are gelling now.”

Asked about whether going 3-0 up so early made it a challenge to keep a relentless attacking game going, Raso said: “For us, we try not to get ahead of ourselves. We wanted to come into the game and score goals. We got a few within a certain period, but that doesn’t stop what we want to do. We stay calm, play our football and continue to push.”

Impetus also understands that Cortnee Vine missed the game today after pulling her groin. It is not thought to be a groin strain, but the Matildas wanted to reduce any risk of more serious injury.

Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková. Photo: NZ Football.

New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková was philosophical about her team’s performance in Canberra against Australia, insisting that there were positives to take.

“Australia put their strongest 11 out and played for a win from the start. This time they put their chances in the goal and that was the difference between the first and second games. I did see positives though.

“We switched our way of defending. We pushed them high and got close to causing trouble. Our high press caused them problems, we need to be consistent now as to how we win the ball further up the field.”

“We wanted to put the pressure on the ball as soon as possible, making them have possession further back on the pitch. We wanted to keep how we defended on Friday in the same way. We wanted to be more aggressive with our squeeze and put pressure on the ball earlier and that is something that we need to do better.

Jitka Klimková, New Zealand head coach.

“The last 20 minutes saw how we really want to play – trusting each other. Not just possession for possession sake, but looking to break the line and score some goals ourselves. Stotty showed how good she is with the ball today as well. She will help us in future to get more control.”

Despite these aims, Klimková’s side found it hard to compete with the Matildas in the first half. New Zealand’s head coach believed that ultimately it was more about how good the hosts were than any weakness in her own side.

“Huge credit to Australia for how they played. The first half was incredible football from them.”

Key attacker Paige Satchell had to leave the pitch in the early stages with what appeared to be breathing problems. The Football Ferns head coach detailed the issue.

“We know that she has some challenges with her heart, so just in case, we wanted to have things under control. It was the right decision to take her off the field. The medical team will work with her to get things right and I am confident that she will be with us in the next international window.”

Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková saw positives from today’s game. Photo: NZ Football.

Klimková was pressed by the New Zealand media about her decision to take Victoria Esson out of the starting line-up despite her outstanding performance in the first game against Australia on Friday, and it is not the first time such a move has occurred.

“We are still in this development of our team phase. We want to have more players ready. That was the reason that Erin (Naylor) got the chance today. She has made good performances for her club and did well at training. It was a simple decision for her to play today and I thought she did a good job.”

The Football Ferns head coach, overall was pleased with what she saw from her team over the matches.

“I definitely got what I wanted out of these two games. We were aiming to build connections on the field. Result wise it was not what we wanted. The first game was so close, but we know we need to be better with our game management and we have to learn those lessons. The players will remember and will be smarter.

Matildas Ease To Second Football Ferns Win

Australia 3-1 New Zealand

By Ben Gilby (12/4/22)

Above: The Matildas celebrate with two goal Sam Kerr tonight in Canberra against New Zealand. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia produced a dominant first-half performance, scoring three goals in a 17 minute spell to see off New Zealand in Canberra.

That opening 45-minute showing saw the Matildas convert a greater percentage of their shots on goal than in recent performances. Whilst building a big lead half-time lead can often lead to a second half-drop off, there does remain an element of frustration about a more pedestrian second-half which saw the hosts fail to impose their overall dominance onto the scoreboard.

The real positives again came from players coming into the squad. Alex Chidiac’s eagerly awaited arrival from the bench brought a superb cameo involving stunning flicks, eye of the needle passes into space, and energetic running. Whilst slightly more shackled this time by Katie Bowen, Katrina Gorry also produced another performance to be proud of.

Above: New Zealand’s Katie Bowen (right) who worked hard against Katrina Gorry (left) all night long in Canberra. Photo: Football Australia.

The Matildas went into the game with just the one change as Caitlin Foord came in to start ahead of Kyah Simon. Cortnee Vine, so dangerous in the final stages on Friday in the first friendly between the two sides was unavailable due to a late injury.

New Zealand brought Erin Naylor in for the hugely impressive Victoria Esson in goal, with Mikayla Moore staying in for the injured Ria Percival.

The earliest stages saw some attacking vim and vigour from the Football Ferns as they imposed a pacey high press which resulted in forcing some defensive errors from Australia in the form of loose passes.

It was not long though before Australia began to impose themselves on proceedings. Naylor had to make her first save with just three minutes on the clock after Foord played Steph Catley in along the right. Claudia Bunge’s clearance fell to Hayley Raso who hit a cross shot which the Ferns goalkeeper gathered under the bar.

New Zealand pressured the Matildas defence shortly afterwards as Hannah Wilkinson was played through and beat the off-side trap. Clare Polkinghorne and Alanna Kennedy failed to close her down sufficiently and the Melbourne City striker’s shot was narrowly wide of the far post.

The Ferns suffered a set-back before the 10th minute when Paige Satchell went down with what looked like breathing difficulties. She would eventually leave the pitch to be replaced by Gabi Rennie, but took her place on the bench which alleviated any initial major concerns.

Above: Australia celebrate Sam Kerr’s opening goal against New Zealand. Photo: Football Australia.

Australia stepped up the intensity, and unlike Friday, got almost immediate rewards. With a quarter of an hour played, Steph Catley’s corner was headed home by an unmarked Sam Kerr. It was a trademark Kerr goal from a set-piece, but major questions need to be asked about an international defence giving the Chelsea star that sort of freedom.

Two minutes later, the Matildas doubled their advantage as Gorry’s pass through came back off Bowen and into the path of Raso to curl a shot into the far corner of the net on the bounce. Whilst it may have been fortuitous that the ball fell to her, it was a superb finish by the Manchester City player.

At this stage, Australia had scored two goals from their three shots on target – something which after the wastefulness of last week’s encounter was a positive.

New Zealand’s defensive organization was a major plus point from Friday’s game, but this time round, they were struggling and guilty of ball watching too often. Being under constant pressure will always highten the possibilities of errors, yet the Ferns showed previously that they can do it. The challenge now is to do it more often, as when the World Cup comes round, lapses will prove costly.

Just after the half-hour mark, it was 3-0. Emily van Egmond’s long ball allowed Kerr to beat Ali Riley and run comfortably between two defenders and roll home a finish into the far corner.

Above: Two goal Sam Kerr celebrates in Canberra tonight. Photo: Football Australia.

With 73% possession, The Matildas were still looking for more goals. Kerr squared a ball across which New Zealand could only clear into the path of Ellie Carpenter, but Naylor saved well.

Two minutes into stoppage time, Australia paid the price for a momentary slip of concentration at the back when Olivia Chance released Wilkinson who advanced towards goal. Lydia Williams blocked the initial shot but the Ferns’ striker won the physical battle with Polkinghorne and hit an effort between the Matildas’ defender’s legs which went in.

Whilst the Matildas came out firing at the start of the second period, with Foord hitting an effort against the bar, the pace began to ease. Australia were comfortable in possession, but were not able to replicate the creation of chances that had come before.

In a bid to inject more energy, Matildas’ head coach Tony Gustavsson brought on five substitutes, including Alex Chidiac who went into midfield along side Gorry. The Melbourne Victory A-League Women champion’s first touch was sublime – a flick with the outside of the foot. She was threading balls through holes beautifully.

Carpenter then made a break along the right and crossed in. Sub Tameka Yallop managed to rescue it at the back post with a first time volley across for Kerr who headed wide of the left hand post. Shortly afterwards, there was a potential penalty shout as Ferns goalkeeper Naylor looked to have made contact with Kerr in the box, but nothing was given.

The final 20 minutes saw New Zealand have the greater share of possession and territory. Chance hit a lofted shot which Williams needed to be alive to, but they couldn’t get any closer.

Whilst this was a comfortable win for Australia, there is still plenty to work on for head coach Tony Gustavsson. More 90 minute performances, consistently tighter defence, and continuing to focus on taking chances when they come remain the focus.

Teams: AUSTRALIA: Williams, Carpenter, Kennedy, Polkinghorne, Catley, van Egmond, Foord, Fowler, Raso, Gorry, Kerr. Substitutes: Simon (for Raso 58′), Yallop (for Foord 58′), Wheeler (for van Egmond 58′), Luik (for Polkinghorne 58′), Chidiac (for Fowler 58′), Grant (for Kennedy 72′).

Scorers: Kerr 15′, 32. Raso 17′.

NEW ZEALAND: Naylor, Riley, Moore, Bunge, Hassett, Green, Cleverley, Bowen, Chance, Wilkinson, Satchell. Substitutes: Rennie (for Satchell 20′), Steinmetz (for Cleverley 46′), Ward (for Green 46′), Jale (for Hassett 48′), Stott (for Wilkinson 69′), Rolston (for Rennie 78′).

Scorer: Wilkinson 45+2′.

Referee: Haruna Kanematsu (JPN).

Attendance: 13,077.

Four From Hincks As Dons Ease Past Harlow

AFC Wimbledon 7-1 Harlow Town

By George Jones – AFC Wimbledon Ladies (11/4/22)

Above: Ashlee Hincks smashes home for AFC Wimbledon against Harlow Town at Plough Lane yesterday. Photo: Glyn Roberts.

AFC Wimbledon marked their last game at Plough Lane this season with a swashbuckling 7-1 win over Harlow Town yesterday in the FA Women’s National League Division One South-East.

It didn’t take long for Kelly Highman to open the scoring as she headed home emphatically in the eighth minute after a cross by Ashlee Hincks. There was better to follow as Hincks turned from provider to scorer in stunning style with a fantastic shot from 25 yards out.   

With the Dons 2-0 up, Harlow had their best spell of the game as they searched for a win that would ensure that they avoid relegation. However, fine saves by Lauren Allen denied the visitors and it remained 2-0 heading into half-time, Rebecca Sargent heading against the crossbar twice at the other end. 

Wimbledon started the second-half strongly, aiming to reassert their dominance and take control of the game once again. With only seven second-half minutes gone, Hincks got her second goal of the game by taking the ball around the keeper, before rolling it into the empty net. Less than two minutes later, it was 4-0 with Katie Stanley getting in on the act.

The goals just kept on coming, Hincks completing her hat-trick with a composed finish, which meant that three goals had been scored in just 10 minutes. Despite a goal for the visitors, the Dons were not to be denied in search of more goals and Hincks scored with a cheeky lob, before Chloe Sampson rounded off the scoring.

Speaking after the game, El Sueno Tequila player of the match Ashlee Hincks said: “We had a bit of a disappointing result a couple of weeks ago against Harlow, so it was nice to finish the season at Plough Lane and get some goals in front of a good crowd.”

Wimbledon play their final away league game next Sunday at Norwich City who will need to win to stay on the right side of the drop zone. Dons follow that up with the big FA Women’s National League Plate Final against Nottingham Forest, which is being played at Solihull Moors FC with an 11.00 am kick-off. AFC Wimbledon complete their season against Cambridge United at Carshalton Athletic FC on the 1st May with a 2.00 pm kick-off.

Table From: FA Women’s National League.

Teams: AFC WIMBLEDON: Allen, Oliver, Highman (Fowler), Sargent (Taylor), Billinghman (Childerhouse), Mann (Russell), Stow, Donovan, Stanley (Carter), Hincks, Sampson.

Scorers: Highman 8′. Hincks 25′, 52′, 56′, 73′. Stanley 54′. Sampson 81′.

HARLOW TOWN: Salmons, Bassett, Brooks, Bilson, Farmer, Stacey, Messore, Howell, Dickens, Becs, O’Leary.

Attendance: 247.

NPL Victoria Women Round Two Wrap

Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPL Women’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other games along with photos (11/4/22).

Above: Action from Calder United (white) v Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).

MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:

Calder United 4-0 Football Victoria Emerging

The game of the week in round two was Calder United’s return to form. Calder are one of the most successful women’s only clubs in Victoria. They are never easybeats but are missing some big names from previous seasons.

Polly Doran, Catherine Zimmerman, Harriet Withers, and Laura Spiranovic are not currently with the squad. Doran made her name with Calder before enhancing it at Victory. She has continued her career in the New South Wales NPL for this season at least.

FV Emerging were one of the most impressive sides last season. As a development squad, it is inevitable that they will lose players each season. Two of last year’s stars, Alana Murphy and Caitlin Karic are currently in the Young Matildas camp.

After a goalless draw in round one, Calder came out of the blocks firing this week. Ava Groba opened the scoring in the sixth minute. FV Emerging had controlled possession in the opening minutes but a Calder counterattack resulted in Groba cutting in past two defenders and finishing in the top corner.

It was another counterattack and another long ball to Groba that doubled Calder’s lead. This time, she slowed down, then quickly changed pace to beat the defender on the outside. Her first goal was on her right foot, this one on the left. They both found the same corner of the net.

Above: An aerial battle between Calder United and Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).

Isabella Accardo seemed to have done everything right. She kept Groba on her left foot, and did not lunge in, but the quick acceleration and finish were perfect.

The FV Emerging defender almost made amends straight away. A defence-splitting pass from deep created a chance in front of goal, but it could not be turned in.

Calder continued to pile on the goals in the second half. Adriana Taranto raced in on goal and eventually, the ball fell to Stacy Papadopoulos who was bundled over in the box.

Taranto made no mistake from the second opportunity in a minute and buries the penalty kick to make it 3-0 with half an hour left to play.

In a day full of memorable goals, the fourth might have been the best. Again Papadopoulos was involved. The attacker had been dangerous since coming off the bench and she teased the defender on the wing before laying the ball back to Alanna Cerne.

Above: Calder United on the front foot against Football Victoria Emerging. Photo: Jack Dilks (171819).

Cerne took a tough and a few strides forward from deep. She lined up her shot and fired it into the net from 30 yards with enough power to beat Hrehoresin with an early goal of the season contender.

The game ended 4-0 with Calder the much more clinical of the two sides. FV Emerging were attacking and industrious but were caught out by quick attacks by Mark Torcaso’s side.

Sarah Cain was one of Emerging’s best. In a central midfield role, she broke up play and continued to move the ball forward. The young team was only missing some composure in the final third. It was the only thing missing from their performance in an attacking sense. Either the final pass or the finish went astray.

Calder United were not dominant for the entire game but had control of the play even without the ball. Emma Rober’s was composed in midfield and Cori Cain’s long passing was the key to many attacks.

The 4-0 scoreline might seem unfair to FV Emerging, but Calder took their chances and the home side might be disappointed they did not add to the tally.

The confidence that this win provides will come in handy next week when they face the undefeated and untied Bulleen Lions.

Squads: CALDER UNITED: Dall’Oste, Cain, Cerne, Stojevski (Stella 50′), Talevski (Robers 50′), Groba (Papadopoulos 59′), Eike, Dakic. A. Taranto, Mathews, Sardo.

Scorers: Groba 6′, 34′. Taranto 64′. Cerne 81′.

FOOTBALL VICTORIA EMERGING: Hrehoresin, Lohrey, Varley(Beidis 74′), Richards, Sewards, Vlaeminck (Bulic 56′), Curtis, Kilderry, Brown (Liacopoulos 90′), Cain, Accardo, Cortellino.

Referee: Shab Roshan.

Round Two Round-Up:

The second round of the NPLW saw Bulleen Lions continue on their winning ways. Tiffany Eliadis scored first to set them on their way to a 2-0 victory over Box Hill United to put them at the top of the table with Rosie Rodger adding the clincher.

Above: Action from Heidelberg United (yellow) against Alamein. Photo: Sally Tsalikidis.

After a big opening round win, Heidelberg United fell 2-1 to Alamein and a Kat Nikpour brace. Danielle Wise scored for Heidelberg.

Above: Tijan McKenna (blue), scorer of South Melbourne’s second goal in action at Bayside United this weekend. Photo: Bayside United.

Across town, Bayside United drew with South Melbourne 2-2. Julia Budiongo put Bayside ahead before the half hour, but Akeisha Sandhu levelled with half-time in sight. It is an unusually slow start to the season by the traditional power club South Melbourne, but Tijan McKenna added another moment to her growing highlight reel with a goal to put them ahead five minutes into the second half. Amanda Stevenson levelled matters just before the hour mark.

Table Round Two:

From Football Victoria NPL Women’s.

Surrey To Host Afghan Women’s Development Team

11/4/22

Artwork: International Surrey Football. Photo: Girl Tiny Shooter.

International Surrey Football this morning announced that they will be hosting the Afghanistan Women’s Development Team in a friendly fixture on Sunday 29th May at the Meadowbank Stadium in Dorking.

The match which will also mark our Surrey Women’s first full debut since playing their opening trial game against the University of Surrey in 2021 which was won 8-1 by the county team. The game in Dorking will also be Surrey’s first game where fans will be able to attend and support the team on such an important occasion.

The Afghanistan Women’s Development team is made up of players forced to leave their homes in Afghanistan following the fall of Kabul to Taliban forces and the withdrawal of NATO forces in August 2021. The team had been planning to compete in the under-23 Central Asian Football Federation’s women’s championship, unfortunately, those plans fell apart suddenly with the Taliban’s quick advance on the Afghan capital in scenes many of us will remember.

This event placed all Afghan women’s players at immediate risk, with many players encouraged to destroy their own kit to protect themselves and not be identifiable as footballers. Fortunately, many of the players and their families were able to safely leave Afghanistan, the women’s first team, now based in Melbourne, Australia, and recently admitted to the regional Victoria football competition with assistance from A-League side Melbourne Victory FC.

Above: Members of the Afghanistan Women’s Team. Photo via: Surrey International Football.

Meanwhile, the Afghanistan Women’s Development team were initially unable to be evacuated to the UK. The team went into hiding on their journey to Kabul’s airport. They were at the airport when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a gate on the perimeter, killing 170 Afghan nationals as well as 13 US service members. It wasn’t until they had managed to safely cross the border into neighbouring Pakistan that they were able to leave for the UK with the help of Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani that the team were able to reach the UK and are able to train at Leeds United FC.

The Afghanistan Development team recently enjoyed a trip to London with a game against the UK Parliamentary Women’s team with assistance from Amnesty International and played at Dulwich Hamlet and included a visit to Westminster. The Afghan team won every game they played against the British MPs.

The plan to bring the team to Surrey isn’t over just yet, with travel and accommodation costs to cover for what is being planned as a two-day trip for the Afghan players, International Surrey Football will be running a crowdfunding campaign, as well as seeking donations, to help contribute towards the travel and accommodation expenses for their stay in Dorking.

As well as individual donations, larger corporate donors can contact International Surrey Football directly to discuss sponsorship opportunities as well as to help cover the various costs for travel and accommodation.

Donations can be made to: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/afghanistan-to-dorking-football

Above: The Afghan Women’s Development Team pictured after taking on British MPs at Dulwich Hamlet FC. Photo via: International Surrey Football.

Gustavsson & Klimková Outline Aims Ahead of Matildas v Football Ferns II

Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from the head coaches of Australia and New Zealand, Tony Gustavsson and Jitka Klimková ahead of tomorrow’s second game between the two nations in Canberra (11/4/22).

Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson at today’s media conference. Photo: Football Australia.

Tony Gustavsson has said that he is focussing on his team “converting chances when they come” ahead of tomorrow’s friendly with New Zealand in Canberra.

The Matildas dominated the first game against the Football Ferns in Townsville on Friday but had to wait until stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes to turn a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 win.

“I don’t want things to change too much for us because I think we played really well on Friday. What we have looked at a lot though is converting chances when they come. We should have been three or four-nil up at half-time. Almost 90% of our attacks in that game ended inside the final third.

“Another pleasing thing was the different ways we were creating chances – central combinations, transitional movements, longer passing sessions, and set plays.”

Gustavsson revealed that as well as regular training, there have been a lot of meetings with players ahead of tomorrow’s game.

“There have been further Asian Cup reviews and reviews of the first New Zealand game.”

In terms of reflecting on the disappointing Asian Cup campaign, the Matildas head coach said: “We had seven players with COVID over Christmas and 12 players playing zero minutes into the weeks leading into it. In the Korea game, we had a 45% reduction in sprints in the second half which impacted the way we want to play.

“In the Korea game, we had some good moments against them in the first half, but the second half it got a bit nervy and we started playing long balls. We also created lots of chances but did not convert. Games are won and lost like that. In the tournament, we conceded only two goals. One against Thailand near the end which was a lack of game management near the end and the free-kick in the wide-area against Korea. Those are things we need to guard against.”

Above: Making a point to the media today, Tony Gustavsson. Photo: Football Australia.

Gustavsson addressed the criticism he is getting in some quarters for results and selections, asking for fairness and understanding the process that he was employed to oversee.

“Being a head coach – there is always criticism. Honestly, I like a debate and there will always be opinions about players selected and tactics. You just need to be fair and educated about what we are doing.

“When I came into the job I mentioned our stats in results against the top sides in the world and from 2011-2020 and you will see bad stats, to be honest. We said we need to play them more to be prepared next time. Therefore, the results in those friendlies may not make expectations. I think we’ve played too many lower-ranked opponents to prepare for tournaments before.

“The other thing is to connect to the Gap report about having more fringe players getting exposed. On average, we have fielded 2.4 new players per decade. Last year we fielded 14 debutants. If you combine that with playing some of the world’s top teams, it’s natural that results will be hard. I’m not saying that to try to protect myself, I’m just saying it is part of a process, a bigger journey.”

Australia’s head coach ended by highlighting what he particularly wants to see from his team tomorrow.

“Tomorrow is a different game and New Zealand will show learnings from the first one too. I want to see how fast we can play – the international game is getting quicker all the time and I want to see what we can do.

“The other focus point for me is in defence. There were times on Friday when we got away with being below 100% at the back. We need to fix that. We can be hurt against the top nations in the world if we are not focussed all the time.

“One of the biggest victories we have now is that we have 100% availability for tomorrow’s game. It makes it tough for me to decide who starts and who will be the game-changers.”

Above: New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková talking to the media today. Photo: NZ Football.

New Zealand head coach Jitka Klimková believes that her team are over the devastating way they lost a 1-0 lead against Australia in the first match on Friday.

“The team have recovered. Our sessions in Canberra have had quality and a lot of smiles. We are planning to compete in the same way and obviously have things to improve on. We’re glad to have another chance to play against strong opposition.

“If we see the amount of grit and determination every time we step onto the pitch, I will be really pleased. We can control the game better and keep the ball better no doubt, but we are going through those processes and focussing on them. I was very proud how we fought on Friday.”

Klimková had mixed news about player availability for tomorrow’s game starting with the worst possible outcome for Ria Percival.

“Ria has gone back to her club, Tottenham. She is so important for us. It is a long-term injury, an ACL injury to her left knee. Depending on the assessment she will out for the rest of the year.”

The Ferns though are hopeful of being able to call on Rebekah Stott who missed the game in Townsville. “We have to be careful. There are priorities with players’ health. However, it looks promising. If she is ready, she is always going to play. We think Stotty will step on to the field. She will help us to keep the ball better.”

New Zealand’s head coach highlighted the improvement areas that see is looking for from her team from Friday’s game to tomorrow’s.

“Set piece defending is one of our real work-ons after the first game. Along with this is the opportunity to play to win, to redeem ourselves. We want to show that grit from Friday. If we start to be consistent with that competitiveness and connection on the field, that is the way our future will look like. We need to keep hold of our friend, the ball more. That starts from trusting each other in possession.”

Klimková’s slightly longer-term aims are all about getting the Football Ferns in the right place for a home World Cup.

“The main thing we need is to play more games, keep the process and belief that this team can achieve its first wins in the World Cup and get out of the group. It won’t happen in one or two international windows. It is what we will keep working on for the rest of this year.

“What the players do outside of the window is important. We are making sure that players are continually pushed and learning ahead of July 2023.”