Above: Vanessa Giles (24) celebrates her goal with Ashley Lawrence (10) and Desiree Scott (11). Photo: Hannah Parnell for Impetus.
By Darrell Allen at Carrow Road for Impetuswith EXCLUSIVE photos from pitchside from Hannah Parnell.
Three hours after the Lionesses match against Spain concluded, Carrow Road hosted its second match of the day in the Arnold Clark Cup with Canada and Germany facing off as both teams looked to be the first winner of a match in the competition.
Storm Franklin continued to batter Norwich between the two games with howling wind and torrential downpours still happening as the second game of the day got underway.
A very disappointing crowd of just 119 were in attendance in one half of the Geoffrey Watling City Stand just alongside where the Canada dugout was situated. It was not a huge surprise that the number was so low as a combination of a three hour wait between matches, terrible weather, and a bad kick off time for families with a Sunday night 8.15pm start not something that you ever associate with football in England.
The game started brightly with very good opening exchanges both teams knocking the ball around well.
It was Canada who got themselves the advantage on seven minutes when Beckie played in a wonderful corner which was headed down and into the bottom right-hand corner by Gilles.
Above: Canada hit the front at Carrow Road. Photo: Hannah Parnell for Impetus.
Canada tried to capitalize on their productive start when Prince broke well but the attack was cleared well by Brand.
Germany began growing into the game after Canada’s positive opening exchanges and Anyomi fed Buhi through on goal but it was intercepted well by Buchanan for Canada.
The game was being played at a fast and frenetic pace and was very pleasing on the eye.
Germany captain Lina Mangull fired a shot that hit Gilles arm, but penalty appeals were waved away by referee Emikar Caldera. It wasn’t to be the only penalty appeal of the evening.
As we headed towards the half-hour mark, both teams were happy playing their passing game, but with both defences playing well, there was little to write home about in this phase of the first half in terms of chances.
Germany upped the anti and Magull floated in a free-kick but it was easily headed away.
Beckie then curled a shot wide. Canada were in the groove as Lawrence found Prince who turned Doorsoun with a sublime piece of skill but couldn’t produce a finish. By far the best piece of football of the entire day and a move that had real wow factor but sadly for Canada no end product.
Above: Lina Magull (20) in possession for Germany at Carrow Road. Photo: Hannah Parnell for Impetus
The first half ended with a series of Germany chances Magull to Buhi who curled inside and forced a save from Sheridan in the Canada goal.
Another Germany corner was cleared by Prince before Dongus fired sky high and over the bar.
The final Germany corner was cleared before being put back in and headed clear as Canada dome well to protect their lead and head into the break leading.
The second half began with a Canada chance as Prince was through on goal but fired over the bar.
A good Germany break followed but Buhi was superbly intercepted on the penalty spot.
Germany then put an inswinger of a corner which went everywhere but nothing to show after an incredible scramble.
A game that ebbed and flowed twisted and turned then saw Prince taken out by Chelsea star Ann-Katrin Berger in the Germany goal but appeals were again waved away. Germany fired a free-kick over as they continued to build. Gwinn was dragged back after Gilles lost balance but penalty appeals were again waved away.
German pressure continued and Anyomi found Gwinn but it was saved by Sheridan’s legs.
Above: Jessie Fleming battles for possession at Carrow Road. Photo: Hannah Parnell for Impetus.
Corners were being significantly affected by wind as the Storm Franklin continued to rage through Carrow Road.
Lots of Germany pressure followed and a lot of set plays were being won. A free kick by Rauch was headed wide by Schuller. With 12 minutes to play Germany kept knocking on the door Dabritz and Dallmann both had scrappy shots which didn’t come to anything.
All the action was in the Canada half as Germany continued to try desperately for an equalizer. Rose put it into Berger’s hands in a rare second-half chance for Canada.
A series of Germany corners were all then wind-assisted and went all the way through the box and out the other side. In a frenetic finale where it was attack after attack from Germany, Dabritz played in Dallmann and it was cleared but Rall then lashed a shot towards goal.
Four minutes of added time were signalled and through its entirety Germany laid siege to Canada. Corners were earned, the closest of which was cleared but Dabritz floated it back in for Schuller to head towards goal but the keeper saved.
The game ended with Canada breaking and Beckie crossed but it ended up in Ann-Katrin Berger’s hands and there was no time left for Germany to force any more attacks.
This was a win for the Olympic champions that required hard work, determination, team spirit, and togetherness as Canada stood firm through the German onslaught to protect their early lead.
Above: Germany’s Nicole Anyomi (18) battles with Kadeisha Buchanan (3). Photo: Hannah Parnell for Impetus.
Germany will be frustrated. They created more than enough and should definitely have had at least one penalty, but Canada did themselves proud and defended together as a unit to become the first winners of a match at the Arnold Clark Cup.
They have now put themselves in pole position to take the trophy in the final round of games in Wolverhampton on Wednesday night when they play Spain. Germany will face England and the Lionesses will have to perform well defensively to deny Germany a result. It promises to be an exciting day on Wednesday to decide the tournament.
Above: The view behind the goal as AFC Wimbledon go ahead from Ashlee Hincks’ corner yesterday. Photo: Glyn Roberts.
From George Jones – AFC Wimbledon Ladies(21/2/22)
AFC Wimbledon suffered a rare defeat yesterday after lower league Ashford Town (Middx) gained another impressive win in the Capital Women’s Cup Quarter-Final.
Kevin Foster’s side had their 13-match unbeaten run ended by the London and South-East Regional Premier leaders.
The Dons went into the game knowing it was going to be a tough fixture with Ashford unbeaten in the league all season and having beaten sides from the same level as Wimbledon and higher in other cup competitions this season.
And so it proved as Ashford started well, forcing Dons keeper Lauren Allen to make a fantastic save. The Dons took the lead though in the 19th minute when Ashlee Hincks scored direct from a corner. In the match played at Carshalton, visitors Ashford stormed back and earned a deserved equaliser from Impetus sponsored striker Ashley Cheatley, before their goalkeeper Sophie Shults made a fine save to stop Hincks from putting the Dons back in front.
Ashford had a dream start to the second-half as they took the lead with less than five minutes gone after the restart through Kalani Peart. The Dons responded by exerting more pressure, but Allen was required to made another superb save to keep the hosts in it. Though a free-kick by Hincks was well saved by the Shults, the visitors held on for an impressive victory.
El Sueno Tequila Player of the Match Lauren Allen said: “Fair play to Ashford. We knew it was going to be a difficult game, and a real challenge for us. They deserved it, but from our perspective, it was not good enough. We will go into training on Tuesday and we’ll work hard to bounce back from it.”
Above: The Ashford Town (Middx) team who claimed another higher division cup scalp yesterday. Photo: Ashford Town (Middx).
Teams: AFC WIMBLEDON: Allen, Oliver, Fowler, Highman, Billingham, Childerhouse (Mann), Taylor (Sargent), Stow, Pickett (Rebecca Carter), Hincks, Sampson.
Round 12 of the A-League Women saw some huge games in the Finals race as well as clashes between sides looking to pull away from the lower reaches of the table. Our writing team for the competition. Ben Gilby, Kris Goman, and Kieran Yap highlight who caught their eyes this week(21/2/22).
PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
Ben: If Cortnee Vine was the player of the first half of the season, then Adelaide United’s Chelsie Dawber is going to be a serious contender to take that crown for the second half of the campaign. She is starting to show the form and scoring consistency that she’s threatened for the last few seasons. On the scoring sheet once more this weekend as Adelaide took another massive leap towards the Finals. An honorable mention also to Perth Glory’s Cyera Hyntzen whose runs and delightful back pass for her team’s second goal on Saturday was sublime.
Kris: Ash Brodigan. Gave 100% all-match long for Newcastle Jets against the Wanderers with a lot of damaging runs. Created the penalty that equalized and scored a beautiful goal for her first ever in the A-League Women.
Above: Adelaide United’s Chelsie Dawber – Ben and Kieran’s choice for player of the week.
Kieran: It’s Chelsie Dawber. She might also be the best striker in the competition. She’s intelligent and has perfect technique in the box.
COACH IN THE WEEK:
Ben: Alex Epakis. To go to AAMI Park and set his team up to produce a fantastically sustained attacking performance was brave, but completely his style. Every time you think Perth might have missed their Finals chances he keeps the belief in the team to pull off another superb win. After two months on the road.
Kris: I really can’t decide between Cath Canulli of Western Sydney and Ash Wilson of the Jets this week. It was the battle of the bottom dwellers and they were both facing embarrassing records if they didn’t score. Both teams rose to the occasion and produced an enthralling match, so a draw between the coaches too seems fitting.
Above: Perth Glory’s Alex Epakis, picked up two votes for coach of the week. Photo: Perth Glory.
Kieran: Alex Epakis. It was close between him and Rado Vidosic, but Perth Glory won on the road (again) against the reigning champions and kept them to their only scoreless game this season.
EVENT OF THE WEEK:
Ben: Sydney’s trip to Melbourne. They had looked impregnable all season, but dropping a 2-0 lead to Victory and going down 2-1 to City saw the end of both their clean sheet record and unbeaten run. They gave it a real good go to hit back in the second half against City and were within minutes of beating Victory. Two huge games and outcomes.
Kris: Perth’s win over Victory. To see them come from the wooden spoon last year to bring a serious finals contender had been wonderful. This win over Victory is one of their most important and keeps them in the race for the finals.
Kieran: Catherine Zimmerman’s late equalizer against Sydney FC last Wednesday. It was a well-executed left-foot volley to send Victory fans into raptures. Gotta love some late drama.
We’ve been keeping a tally of all the votes for player and coach of the week during the season which will count towards naming our player and coach of the season.
Above: Rhianna Pollicina celebrates her opening goal with team-mates including Holly McNamarawho would latersuffer a potentially season-ending injury.Photo: Melbourne City
By Kieran Yap (21/2/22)
Sydney FC’s undefeated run has ended and Melbourne City has closed the gap on the defending champions to one point. However, City fans were far from jubilant at the whistle after what looked like a season-ending injury to young star Holly McNamara.
Sydney started the match the slower of the two teams. They were playing after only three days break following a tough 2-2 draw to Victory on the Wednesday night.
City attacked from the whistle, but it was Sydney who crafted the first real chance of the game. Remy Siemsen played in Cortnee Vine who sprinted into a shooting position but hit it straight at Melissa Barbieri from a tight angle.
City’s in-form playmaker Rhianna Pollicina tried her luck from a free-kick that skimmed the top netting. Jada Whyman looked to have it covered but it was a good effort from the City number 10.
Minutes later, City opened the scoring. Kaitlyn Torpey received the ball in space on the right and played a quick pass inside to Rhianna Pollicina.
She was unmarked in the box in the middle of an unusually open Sydney FC defence. There was no hesitation in what she did next. A quick turn and a right-footed shot rifled the ball into the bottom corner. It was her fourth goal in as many matches and the only time this season that Sydney FC has conceded first.
Above: Rhianna Pollicina )(left) celebrates with Leah Davidson after scoring for Melbourne City. Photo: Melbourne City.
City held onto the momentum. Pollicina played in Holly McNamara who outpaced the defenders easily but Whyman was equal to the close-range effort.
It was not long before City had a second. Tyla-Jay Vlajnic had been excellent in the opening half, and she set up Torpey for a terrific goal.
The fullback, who occasionally drifted into midfield, cut inside and curled a perfect pass from her right foot. The ball dissected the Sydney defence and landed perfectly into the stride of Torpey.
After setting up the first goal, Torpey had one of her own. The first time finish slipped beyond Whyman and into the net.
Sydney’s best chance came when Mackenzie Hawkesby collected the ball at the edge of the area. She had time and lined up her shot. Somehow Barbieri was able to get a strong enough hand to it and palm it over the bar. It was a spectacular effort to stop a well-hit shot.
The second half began with Sydney FC in the ascendancy. Melbourne City’s defence remained compact and organized and easy chances were hard to come by.
Charlize Rule almost pulled one back for the visitors. She connected well with a Mackenzie Hawkesby corner but it crashed off the woodwork. Ibini came close from the follow-up but City scrambled the ball away.
Above: Melbourne City’s Tori Tunmeth (left) battles against Sydney FC’s Tori Tunmeth. Photo: Sydney FC.
Siemsen and Vine combined once again, this time to play in the Matildas centre forward. However, Barbieri was on hand to stop her first-time shot once again. The City goalkeeper might be the best player in the competition right now.
Leticia McKenna was enjoying a rare start for Melbourne City. She was in the side in place of Rebekkah Stott who was away with New Zealand’s national team and almost scored twice in succession.
Both efforts displayed great composure and footwork in the penalty area. Whyman was tested and saved well from what looked like certain goals.
Hawkesby was once again the best creators of opportunities. She earned a free-kick and took it herself. The pass was perfectly clipped over the defensive line and Charlize Rule was able to time her run precisely. The finish was not as exact and the ball skied over the bar.
As the game reaches the closing stages, Sydney earned a lifeline. Siemsen was fouled in the area and Princess Ibini stepped up to take the penalty. The winger scored her third goal in three games when she took the direct approach, smashing it down the middle low and hard.
Above: Sydney FC’s Princess Ibini strokes home the penalty. Photo: Sydney FC.
A nervy end to the game saw City hold on for the win that takes them within a point of first place. The top two sides had met, and City reversed the loss suffered against the same team a few weeks prior.
However, the win was sadly soured by the injury to Holly McNamara. She has been one of the brightest discoveries of this A-League Women’s season and one of the most exciting young Matildas to debut for the national team in recent years.
McNamara is an exciting, gifted, and inventive forward that fans adore and neutrals admire.
It was a sad end to an otherwise terrific outing by City.
Sydney will have faith that they can rebound quickly. The premiership is still in their hands and they will expect to win it with no major injuries and a first choice starting eleven available.
Their week in Melbourne was far from their best football, but they still look like ending the season as the best team.
Teams: MELBOURNE CITY (4-3-3): Barbieri, Torpey, Tunmeth, Checker, Heatley, Davidson, Vlajnic, Westland, Pollicina, McNamara, McKenna. Substitutes: Blissett, James (GK), Karic, Malone, van der Meer.
In this concluding part of Darrell Allen‘s chat with Caister manager Sophie Gillett and captain Hayley Muir, the pair reflect in detail on Caister’s first season so far and look ahead to today’s big England v Spain match just up the road from them in Norwich(20/2/22).
Caister currently sit top of the Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two and manager Sophie Gillett recognizes that it has been a positive campaign so far.
“Yes in terms of results and currently being top of the league. But the grand scheme of things is that we as a collective are enjoying our football so much, the training and attitudes have been spot on and that’s reflected in not just the results but the performances too.
“The football played at times has been great to watch and we really don’t look the same team we were a year ago. Looking at the depth and quality in our squad I’d have been disappointed not to be in or at least around the position we are now, but it’s not been easy, Gorleston has in a short space of time got a young good squad, Shrublands, although we haven’t played them in the league yet, are contenders. UEA is a very good young side and we lost to King’s Lynn away.
“For me personally, the togetherness, friendship, and cohesion is our biggest success and as long as we have that off the pitch we will carry that onto the field too. It’s been a great year so far and nothing would make me more proud to gain promotion and obviously, if we won it in our first season as Caister that would be amazing.”
Back in January, Caister went toe to toe with Step five King’s Lynn Town, and despite losing 6-0 and being three leagues below, the Caister squad can be very proud of their performance. Sophie spoke in detail about that game.
“We knew what we were up against and how good technically King’s Lynn are and how much fitter they’d be. I said to the girls before we won’t see much of the ball in terms of possession and may not create many chances but lets at least let them know we are there.
“The girls ran their socks off, battled all over, I think even King’s Lynn would say that they felt they had played us and we made them work a bit. Yes, the scoreline was 6-0, yes, they were great on the ball, created a lot of chances, particularly long-range shots, but from a coaching perspective, I learned a lot more about my team that game than I have over the rest of the season.
Above: Sophie Gillett pictured in the home dugout with Caister chairman Alan Peace at the Allendale launching the ladies team for the new season. Photo: Caisyter FC.
“The defensive element of our game that hasn’t really been tested too much this season, showed what we as a collective were capable of. Our work rate was something that really impressed me, it showed that we were able to do the nitty-gritty stuff and would dig in deep to try and compete.”
It was also an extremely proud day for captain Hayley Muir as she explained. “King’s Lynn were tough, you know the term ‘make or break?’ I can honestly say, although we lost that match 6-0, it made Caister stronger than ever. I was an extremely proud captain that day – the girls gave everything they had and more. Never did they stop fighting, never did they give up. We go on as a team, we come off as a team as always.”
In terms of the key components of the Caister squad, Sophie highlighted: “I think looking at our goal tally I could easily highlight any attacking players. Three of our strikers are in the top five positions for goal scorers in the league, with Beth Turner and Ellie Hills first and second which is incredible.
“We have attracted some quality players this year who have really made a difference, Maria Jardim in goal has been fantastic on and off the pitch and her character is one that provides so much laughter and energy it’s great to have her back. For me though Hayley Muir and Chantelle King, my captain, and vice-captain are just inspirational.
“Hayley is such a valued member of not only our team but is a role model across the women’s game in Norfolk, people still can’t believe her age. She is inspirational, her work ethic, attitude, dedication, and commitment is one of or if not the best I have ever come across, you haven’t had an inspirational team talk unless you have had one from Hayley! She is my go-to person through anything and everything, for words of advice, support, pick me ups, I dread the day I get told she’s retiring. It doesn’t bear thinking about!
“Chantelle King is another person I look up to a lot, again like Hayley is always there for support. She has given up her own playing time when I’ve not been available to manage the team and has just taken on board the role of the ladies fitness coach, she is an absolute legend and someone I rate very highly. As a whole though, all the girls are great, it’s just such a happy camp at the moment and it’s a blessing to lead this team.”
Hayley stressed the importance of all team members. “Each and every player is a well respected, highly thought of, important cog in the Caister wheel. Beth Turner has matured both mentally and physically. Her work rate and attitude towards being a team player is for me, a highlight of this season.
“Nic Sheldrake is playing her best football to date. She is a very strong dominant player in the middle of the park. Maria our goalkeeper, came for one match to help us out, after loving the team atmosphere. She signed at the start of the season and has been solid every game. Chantelle King our vice-captain, the most unselfish player you ever met, puts everyone before herself, does anything and everything she possibly can for this team. She is a diamond.”
Above: Caister Captain Hayley Muir receives a player of the match award from club sponsor and number one fan Dave Roots. Photo: Caister FC.
The pair highlighted their favourite moments of the season so far and Sophie pointed to the local Derby vs Gorleston.
“I think everyone had eyes on the Gorleston game because of the occasion and obviously as a team us leaving Gorleston to join Caister. There were a lot of nerves that day but to win that at the Allendale was special.
“However, for me personally, the UEA game was a turning point, in terms of character, we were losing had lost a player to injury and one played injured and couldn’t even run at one point. To be losing with 10 minutes to go, I said I’d happily take a point if we can get it, but to score two goals late on and to see players being helped off and emotionally and physically drained, was the point where I realized how far we have come as individuals and as a unit.”
Hayley’s was a very personal one. “My favourite moment so far was putting that red kit on for the first time and walking out on that pitch at the Allendale with my teammates. My manager standing proud having led us to this point in time, after all her hard work, effort, stress, and worrying months she endured for her team and for us to be there”
Both Sophie and Hayley then wanted to highlight the one club ethos that comes through at The Allendale.
“It’s easily the best set up I’ve ever been at,” enthused Sophie. “The support we get from the club as a whole is fantastic. We are treated exactly like everyone else, the Allendale is always full of spectators and representatives from the club watching. The management group chat always passes on their best wishes and congratulations before and after games and the publicity on social media is amazing.
“I know I speak as a whole when I say this, this has been the most any of us have enjoyed playing or coaching football in years and a big part of that is from the foundation of the club and that community feel it brings with it.”
Hayley backed that up and confirmed that Caister involves their ladies team in everything they do. “We have the full backing of the club and they involve the ladies in everything. Communication is fantastic and nothing is too much trouble. We are respected, thought of, and valued. The team has never been happier, we are very lucky!”
Today is a momentous day in Norfolk as England face Spain in the Arnold Clark Cup at Carrow Road, Sophie is excited that both her teams will be attending.
Above: Caister FC in the dressing room. Photo: Caister FC.
“Yes in fact both my ladies and my u15s sides are taken the short trip up to support, some of my youth have never been to a live game before so I’m excited that their first will be the Lionesses!
“Women’s football is growing massively and you see it locally how many teams we have playing, so for us all to be able to cheer our nation on locally is incredible! There are a lot of the team I am excited to see. Lucy Bronze is a big favourite amongst most of the ladies, but obviously, Lauren Hemp is a local girl who played for Norwich, so it will be great to see her too! As I support United, I’m looking forward to seeing Ella Toone. What a player. I love the whole squad, they are such an inspiration.”
Hayley is looking forward to seeing her first international match. “Yes, there are many of us attending the match at Carrow Road, it’s the first time I have ever seen an international match. I particularly like Steph Houghton. I think she’s a class leader, calm under pressure, a true workhorse with bags full of grit and determination.
“It is fantastic that the women’s game has evolved so much over the years. From me being a youngster with no opportunities until 13, to girls now having endless opportunities from young ages to progress , be supported and natured in a sport they love.”
Sophie and Hayley concluded by identifying their aims for the rest of the season.
“I think I’d be disappointed if we weren’t still challenging for top spot,” Sophie revealed. “My main goal is to obviously get promoted and see how we match up in Division One. We’ve had some friendlies against some Division One teams and competed in all three so it shows how far we have come.
“I’d be lying if I said I don’t want to win the league and would obviously be gutted if we didn’t. However this year has been about rebuilding and gaining confidence again . Enjoyment is as equally as important as success so as long as the team continues to develop and enjoy it I’d be happy.”
For Hayley, it is all about enjoyment. “My manager Gillie has all the time and patience in the world for me and continues to teach and advise me and courage and support me. My team mates are the reason I can still be a part of all this too, without them and their continued hark work and their non judgemental attitude towards my age, I wouldn’t still be enjoying the game I love after all these years.
“I want to win the league. For Gillie, for Matthew (coach), for the team. I would love for this squad to continue going from strength to strength and compete in Division One next season, because we most certainly can.”
Above: Melbourne City’s Holly McNamara pictured whilst at the Asia Cup with Australia. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
With tomorrow’s huge A-League Women match between Melbourne City and Sydney FC, Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from City striker Holly McNamara and head coach Rado Vidosic (19/2/22).
Melbourne City’s teenage Matildas star Holly McNamara spoke of how much she is looking forward to Sunday’s huge game with Sydney FC after missing out on their previous encounter last month.
“I was away at the Asia Cup last time we played them, so it’s exciting. After their 2-2 draw with Victory (on Wednesday), I think we can really do well against them. If we can play our game, we are one of the best in the league on our day. We know they have big players, need to focus on ourselves, play our game and we can do well.”
City go into the game without key players Rebekah Stott and Hannah Wilkinson who are on international duty, but McNamara is confident that the team have more than enough depth to worry Sydney.
“They are big losses, but we have strength and depth in our squad to cover that and bring people in. (Rhianna) Pollicina has scored five goals, had lots of assists but is underrated doing a lot of work that no-one sees. She’s having a great season.”
Asked about how she assesses her first A-League Women campaign with City, the teenager beamed: “I’m just having fun. It’s so much fun playing for City. Playing with players like (Rhianna) Pollicina and Wilkinson is great. Knowing that Rado (Vidosic, head coach) is backing me too is great.
McNamara knows how well she has progressed over the last four months. “At the start of the season I was less composed and I was missing chances, now I’ve grown and got confidence. Rado has given me confidence to go out there and just have fun.”
Looking ahead for the remaining weeks of the campaign, the 19-year-old striker said: “We’re still pushing hard to make Finals. We need to play our game because one slip-up could ruin everything. We really want a home Final. Everyone is buzzing and keen to play. Getting to those Finals makes everyone so keen to play.”
Above: Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic is positive but realistic ahead of Sunday’s game with Sydney FC. Photo: Melbourne City.
Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic knows that his team has a lot to prove when they take on Sydney after their 3-0 defeat to the table toppers last month, but he is confident that things will be different this time.
“This will be Sydney’s third game in a week, so we can expect that maybe they will be a bit tired. We must stay in the game. The longer we can stay in the game, the more chances you get.
“We’re not going to change anything in our approach – just maybe work harder, but that’s it. If we can score the first goal, that would be big. I don’t think they’ve gone 1-0 down in a game yet. We will need to defend though, but you never know. Victory showed on Wednesday that you will get your chances.”
Vidosic explained what he wants to see from his team on Sunday. “Before every game, we go in to win. We have to be realistic though. They have really been smashing teams for 10, 11 games now. They were even dominant against Victory the other night. We need to stay in the game for as long as we can to exploit their weaknesses.
“The first time we played them, they finished us off before we had a chance to stay in the game. Things should be more even this time, even though we are missing a few players. We have worked on our culture and our environment. Regardless of how we go against Sydney FC on Sunday, this season has been successful.
“Some people have been saying that we are clearly the best two teams in the league, but that is not true. Adelaide United haven’t played Sydney yet! For us to play Sydney so close to Finals is important for us. It’s in our hands, although if they win on Sunday they will probably clinch the title. It gives us insight on how to play them in the Finals. If you want to win the Grand Final, you will have to play them again.”
Focusing on Holly McNamara, who wasn’t available the last time City played Sydney due to Asia Cup duty, Vidosic observed. “It’s not like she hasn’t been noticed, so it’s not going to be a surprise for them seeing her. We need speed upfront and that is the key. Especially late in the game is fatigue kicks in for them. Holly is their problem so lets see how they deal with her. We’re going to use her smartly. She has the x-factor for all parts of the game.”
More widely, City’s head coach spoke of his pride in how the season has gone. “It’s been great. A lot of the players hadn’t played (due to COVID-related NPL cancellations). The enjoyment has been high and for me to see that as a coach is wonderful.”
On the availability front, Rebekah Stott and Hannah Wilkinson are both on international duty with New Zealand at the SheBelieves Cup. Vidosic also revealed that there may be some further changes.
“There were a few niggling injuries after the Perth game. This meant training was a bit disjointed earlier in the week. Stotty has been inspirational and Wilkie has been a great scorer. It is hard to replace them, but it opens up the door for younger players and maybe youth will shine on the weekend.”
Above: Newcastle Jets’ Ash Brodigan and Jemma House celebrate. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
By Kris Goman (19/2/22)
This was a hectic game. Considering both teams are out of the finals race, playing for pride is clearly still very important.
A loss by either team would create a record they didn’t want. Wanderers were facing seven losses in a row and the Jets, three matches without a goal. Both avoided these blots in the history books but may have created a new record with the number of yellow cards issued. Twelve yellow cards were issued in total. Six for each team, including both keepers. Fouls aside, or maybe because of them, it was an exciting game marked by a number of goals which has been a rarity for both sides.
Wanderers kicked proceedings off, both literally and figuratively, with an early bout of possession and numerous attempts. Liv Price tried an early shot from way downtown that was saved. Then Libby Copus-Brown broke free of the defence and got a shot into the low right side of goal that was punched away by Coelho.
In the 12th minute Tiana Jaber earns the first yellow after a tussle with Teigan Collister.
Ashlie Crofts continues the pressure with a run down the left and approaches the box but her shot is to the right of goal. Then Danika Matos passes to Crofts who crosses but it’s cleared by Jets.
Elizabeth Eddy eases the pressure when she gets the ball and turns and sends it downfield but no one is there and it comes back for free kick. Sarah Langman grabs it safely.
The next attack sees Ashlee Brodigan’s cross end up on the roof of the net. In a near chance for the Jets, Eddy flicks back to Tara Andrews from near the byline but her header is just off target to the right of goal.
Collister gets a clear run down the left. Her cross is cleared to Price standing outside the box and she shoots but Coelho gets to it in the bottom left corner.
Cass Davis takes a free-kick and Langman rises above the oncoming hoards to take an AFL style mark to pluck it out of the air.
Cooper secures the Wanderers’ first yellow at 25 minutes for holding up the free-kick after a foul on Tara Andrews.
Andrews is down with a knee problem at 28 minutes which appears to be the result of the earlier tackle by Cooper. Then Bianca Gallic is down after a clash with Sophie Harding. Then Cooper is also down injured after clashing with Langman. It feels like carnage
Newcastle get a free kick on the edge of box for a tug on Brodigan by Teigan Allen. Cooper tries to head it away but Langman grabs it safely.
Newcastle are much more attacking now, but against the run of play Wanderers manage to sneak one in. Halloway is able to get into the box and pass to Croft. She rolls her marker in front of goal, and shoots high over Coelho’s fingertips. The drought is finally broken and Wanderers take the lead for the first time in a long time and it’s 1-0.
The Jets up the ante as they try to equalize before halftime. Eddy is awarded a free kick near the top of the box. She tries to go over the wall but Langman smothers it. Then a lob comes over for Harding who runs onto it and shoots. Langman comes out to reduce the angle and it works and Harding’s shot is out to the left of goal.
The final attack of the half see Johnson lob over the defence and Eddy gets it but just taps a bouncing ball into the hands of Langman and missed a sitting goal really. In the end, she was offside so it’s a moot point anyway.
The Wanderers go into the second half in an unfamiliar position, in the lead.
Above: Tara Andrews on the ball for Newcastle Jets today. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
From the kickoff, Price takes a long-range shot after Taren King and Crofts collide. It’s too high and there’s a delay as King is treated. Shortly after, King goes off, unable to continue due to the injury, and is replaced by Bethany Gordon.
Collister gets a yellow after a heavy tackle on Johnson. Brodigan gets away and gets a clear shot on goal and Langman, who’s been a hero, saves another goal with a dive to the right. Another attack by the Jets sees Andrews pass to Brodigan who shoots again but wide.
Brodigan once more comes into the box from a pass from Andrews. This time she’s tackled late by Alexia Apostolakis and goes down in the box. Apostolakis gets a yellow and the Jets get a penalty kick. Eddy steps up to take it and goes low to the right and it’s unreachable for Langman. The score is level at 1-1 at 59 minutes.
Wanderers attack again. Halloway tries a through ball but Copus-Brown is offside. Crofts is replaced by Isabella Habuda.
Eddy has an attacking run and shoots and Langman gets a finger to it and it curls out. Wanderers are straight back on the attack and Coelho saves as everyone rushes into goal.
Marie Dølvik is introduced and her impact is immediate as she sends Harding into the clear on the right but her right-footed shot is wide across goal. Dølvik then gets the opportunity to go for goal herself but it’s also wide to the left. Jets have had lots of shots but very few on target.
Wanderers get a free-kick after a Jaber and Collister tackle. Copus Brown kicks to the back post and Gallic tries to head it but can’t connect.
Another foul after another tackle on Collister. Copus-Brown takes it again and Apostolakis breaks free and gets a rebound to belt it on the half volley and go top right with a beautiful strike and it’s in the back of the net. It’s her first goal in the A-League and she becomes the Wanderers’ youngest scorer. It also evens out the penalty that she gave away earlier. Wanderers take the lead again at 76 minutes and it’s 2-1.
Coelho managed to get a yellow during that goal too.
Gordon gives away a free-kick at the top of the box. Massih to take it. She shoots low into the wall and the shot is stopped dead.
Price gets a yellow too for a bad foul. A minute later David gets a yellow. So many yellows in this match. Is this a record?
Langman tries to eat some time by setting up and then moving a goal kick and riles up the home crowd desperate to equalize. She scores a yellow for her troubles. Almost immediately after, Massih gets a yellow for a foul. This is turning into an Oprah show. You get a yellow! You get a yellow!
There’s a couple of corners at the end as five minutes of stoppage time is announced. Then Dølvik escapes down the left and positions a perfect cross Brodigan who slips it past Langman for a beautiful goal. Cooper has head in her hands as she sees the three points disappear in the dying seconds of the match. This is also Brodigan’s first A-League goal.
But it’s not over until Dølvik gets a yellow too for yet another foul.
Above: Newcastle Jets celebrate coming from behind twice against Western Sydney Wanderers. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
In a last-ditch effort, Copus-Brown takes massive strike, and Coelho tips it over spectacularly. With a minute left, Galea does a late tackle on Dølvik and then gives her a slight shove on the way up. The Norwegian turns and gives her a big shove back. Dølvik is on a yellow but the referee decides to have a quiet chat rather than showing her another yellow. Galea also gets a chat and the foul awarded against her. The Jets free kick goes straight to Langman.
Collister trips, but on ball as Gordon tackles her. Wanderers free-kick and Gordon gets the final yellow card of the game, somewhat unfairly. Galea to take it instead of Copus-Brown who is standing out to the left unmarked. Instead of going for goal, Galea passes to Copus-Brown who crosses. It’s cleared as the final whistle blows.
Despite the huge number of fouls and yellows, it’s pretty obvious after the game that most of the players are good friends as they embrace and joke together. Both teams get a point and there’s no impact to the finals race.
Above: Perth Glory celebrate their opening goal at AAMI Park. Photo: Perth Glory
By Ben Gilby (19/2/22)
Perth Glory produced a hugely creditable performance that combined organization and offensive quality to gain a vital win in the Finals race at Melbourne Victory.
Whilst Jeff Hopkins’ side has games in hand to overhaul Perth in the long run, the Glory have now claimed impressive wins against both Adelaide United and now the defending champions.
Victory brought Lia Privitelli and Tiff Eliadis into the starting line-up for injured Amy Jackson and Mindy Barbieri who went down to the bench. Emma Robers came in as a substitute.
Perth Glory made a number of changes, with 18-year-old former Melbourne Victory train-on Claudia Mihocic making her debut. There were also some notable returnees as Susan Phonsongkham was back after suspension and Alana Jancevski was back in the matchday squad after several weeks after COVID. Alex Epakis needed to make a late change in goal after original starter Morgan Aquino hurt a finger in the warm-up which necessitated Courtney Newbon to come in.
Whilst the home side started on the front foot, the Glory defence was largely solid. Cyera Hintzen provided the visitors’ first opportunity on the counter as she released Phonsongkham who lofted a ball towards goal but Casey Dumont gathered comfortably.
Perth continued to grow into the game. With a quarter of an hour on the clock, Hana Lowry laid off to Hintzen in the centre-circle who returned the favour to the teenager who moved out to the right flank. Lowry curled a ball into the box around the Victory defence for Sofia Sakalis. The finish was disappointing, but the move was class.
Equally class was Catherine Zimmerman’s effort shortly afterward. Kyra Cooney-Cross found Alex Chidiac who, in turn, played in Courtney Nevin. The Matilda fed Zimmerman who turned away from her marker and curled an effort which narrowly went over the bar with Newbon beaten.
Victory were narrowly denied again on the half-hour when Zimmerman beat Deborah-Ann de la Harpe down the right and clipped a ball in which Newbon needed to tip over for a corner.
At the same time, Jeff Hopkins’ injury headaches increased with Alana Murphy needing to leave the pitch with an ankle concern with Mindy Barbieri coming on.
After riding out a ten-minute spell of Victory ascendency, Perth rebounded with Hintzen showing her dangerous pace against Nevin once more to get a shot away which Dumont pushed away.
It remained goalless at the break, but with Victory having had a big game just two days earlier against league leaders Sydney FC, the visitors knew that an energetic start in the second half could leave their hosts feeling the strain.
Above: Polly Doran gets away from Perth Glory’s Sofia Sakalis. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
Polly Doran was masterminding Melbourne Victory’s positive opening to the second half, driving along the right to get balls across, but again, the Western Australian defence was comfortable.
Perth were patient and considered in their build-ups, looking to keep possession when possible to maximize the amount of running Victory had to do before looking to create out wide. From one such move, a powerful run from Sarah Cain through the middle found Phonsongkham whose teasing ball in was put out for a corner which Dumont dealt with comfortably.
Lisa De Vanna’s arrival aided Perth’s momentum. She added energy along the left with the Matildas legend quickly earning a corner. de la Harpe pulled a dangerous one into the mix of the six-yard box with Mie Leth Jans getting a header in that Eliadis had to clear off of the line.
Perth continued to dial up the pressure, earning two further corners which the hosts had to hack away. Further offensive pressure came with the introduction of Aideen Keane and Leena Khamis.
From yet another corner, de la Harpe bent one in from the left which was meant by a flick header from Leth Jans which came back off Withers and Zimmerman and rolled into the net.
Glory continued the pressure with Victory dropping off and allowing them to dominate the possession.
De Vanna fed Hintzen who turned and found the veteran star once more. Her low ball into the near post was met by Khamis who slid an effort narrowly wide.
The pressure was rewarded with a second Perth goal in four minutes. Keane got away from Nevin comfortably along the right and played a cross into the near post which Hintzen brilliantly back flicked towards Khamis who headed home into an empty net.
Glory’s experienced duo combined with 15 minutes left as De Vanna found Khamis who rounded Eliadis and rifled in a curler which Dumont pushed away equally as impressively.
With six minutes to play, Barbieri crashed a shot in which came back of Jancevski’s arm outside the box. The Perth teenager didn’t know much about it, but referee Rebecca Mackie had no option in awarding a free kick. Barbieri hit her free-kick over the bar.
Zimmerman provided Emma Robers with a great opportunity at the death but the sub shinned an effort well wide.
Above: Melbourne Victory’s Alex Chidiac who rued her team’s inability to play for 90 minutes after the game. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
Perth saw out the remaining time to earn another hugely impressive win. Being on the road for over two months now and battling a COVID outbreak, Alex Epakis’ side has gone above and beyond this season. The spirit is strong and the potential endless.
Melbourne Victory’s Lia Privitelli said: “Both teams need to win today and we went really hard at it. We needed to keep the ball more and be composed.”
Perth Glory’s Leena Khamis was thrilled afterward with the character of her team: “I’m super excited. We needed to win to stay alive in the fight for the final four. We knew we needed a goal to win. We went for it. The girls are brilliant. It’s a great bunch of girls and a great coaching staff.”
Victory’s Alex Chidiac was a picture of frustration post-match. “We’re depleted in energy. We’ve been a one half team too often this season and we need to build that up. It’s really difficult playing so many games. We have to move past this game and move on to Canberra on Tuesday.”
In his post-match media conference, Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis spoke of his huge pride in the result. “Oh, it’s a massive win. The playing group and I just spoke in the changing room about it. It was a special performance. We know that if performances are good over these three weeks the Finals will take care of themselves.
“It was a controlled performance, we stuck to the game plan from minute one to minute 90. I’m thrilled, I’m absolutely thrilled.”
Epakis was particularly pleased with the way his players took on board his key message ahead of the game. “All week we talked about capitalizing on moments. We had moments against Melbourne City last week which if we had capitalized on, the result would have been different. Today we capitalized on those moments.”
Perth’s head coach named a bench consisting solely of attacking players (apart from a goalkeeper). “For me, we have that have the mentality of attacking the game. It was probably the first time all season that we had all of those players fit at the same time and it made a difference. We’re not here to draw games, we’re here to win them.”
Whilst Perth’s attacking weapons will take the headlines, young Claudia Mihocic made her debut in the backline and Epakis had no doubts about bringing her in. “I knew she had been training well. She was well guided by an experienced back four. I really believe in her ability. She is a special person and a special player. To do that against her old club too, she was wonderful.”
Looking ahead, Perth Glory has a week now before facing unbeaten league leaders Sydney FC. Their plans for the next seven days initially centre around: ”Absorbing today and being really proud. We need to make sure we don’t lose this moment. There are still things that we can do better, but we take it one day at a time.
“I’m in the high point of my career. I love this club, I’m well supported here and have a great staff and group of players. I’m really happy.”
Above: Adelaide United celebrate during their win over Wellington Phoenix. They have now scored 12 goals in their last two games. Photo: Adelaide United.
By Kieran Yap(19/2/22)
Adelaide took another big step towards a first Finals appearance with a 4-1 win over a spirited and unlucky Wellington Phoenix.
The unsung hero of this game is Charlotte Lancaster, the defender was forced to act as the backup goalkeeper after Wellington were not allowed a replacement for Lily Alfeld.
This left a squad already missing Kate Taylor and Alfeld with one less outfield option on the bench, and a player with no senior experience as the only alternative should Brianna Edwards get an injury in the match.
Both sides attacked from the start. However, it only took until the fifth minute for the Reds to take the lead. “Goal difference” seems to be Adelaide’s mantra this season after narrowly missing finals last time, and they started with the same spirit as they did in the 8-2 thrashing of Brisbane Roar in the previous round.
On this occasion, it was Chelsie Dawber who opened the scoring. Nanako Sasaki’s slaloming run ended in a shot that was well blocked. The ball fell to Dawber just outside the box and she spread it wide to Matilda Mcnamara on the right.
The central defender drilled in a low hard cross to the near post and Fiona Worts attacked the ball but Mackenzie Barry was able to turn it away.
Above: Adelaide United congratulate Chelsie Dawber after she put them in front in Wollongong. Photo: Adelaide United.
Dawber had stayed back from the cluster of players and was in space to meet the clearance. Her shot was well struck and was good enough to beat Edwards through a crowded penalty area.
It was intelligent forward play by Dawber. She held back run running into the box initially and was left unmarked when the opportunity came to her. For the second week in the row, she had opened the scoring with a similar style finish.
Wellington almost replied when Ava Pritchard intercepted a lateral pass in Adelaide’s defence. She cut onto her left foot to shoot but her curling effort went over the crossbar.
Fiona Worts hit back for Adelaide. After scoring five times against Brisbane, she was eager to add to her increasing goal tally. The English striker gathered the ball near halfway and fired a long-range effort that skimmed wide, although Edwards looked to have it covered.
Wellington started the season learning how to defend. In recent weeks they have become a team that can rely on scoring goals most games. Alyssa Whinham and Pritchard combined to cross for Grace Jale.
Jale turned in the box and shot without hesitation. Annalee Grove dove and stretched but the ball nestled in the net and the Phoenix were level in brilliant style.
Unfortunately, parity would not last long. Zoe McMeeken sent a long back pass in the direction of where she thought Edwards would be.
To the horror of the young goalkeeper, it was as good as an Adelaide shot and the Reds were 2-1 up through some horrible fortune.
McMeeken’s error was as surprising as it was uncharacteristic. She has been one of Wellington’s best performers since the season began. It was a costly mistake, but it will not be what her season is remembered for. Both her and Edwards were understandably frustrated in the moment but to both players’ credit, they were able to put it behind them quickly.
Edwards was called into action one more time before the first 45 was up.
Georgia Beaumont, in for the injured Paige Hayward turned cleverly. Her shot was hard and on target. Edwards was well-positioned and her hands were even better, she tipped it over the keep Wellington in touch at the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern to the first, most Adelaide games do recently. Worts and Sasaki both saw their strikes whistle over the crossbar. Edwards saved well after Worts sped down the left and shot from an angle.
Above: Georgia Beaumont in possession for Adelaide United against Wellington Phoenix. Photo: Adelaide United.
Whinham created, and then neatly finished an opportunity for Wellington after she nutmegged her opponent and then received the ball back from Jale. Her hurried shot almost crawled over the line but was cleared by a desperate Emily Hodgson.
Adelaide finally extended their lead. Dawber had come close minutes earlier but set Worts on her way to her 10th of the season. It was a lighting quick attack, involving two passes. A defensive clearance was hit long and Dawber instantly moved it on to Worts.
The in-form striker sized up her options and took on Mackenzie Barry, the defender did well to stay with her but Worts created just enough space to get the shot away into the far corner.
As the game opened up, Adelaide were able to add one more. Dylan Holmes, in her 50th senior game as an Adelaide United player, carried the ball through midfield. She split the defence with a perfectly placed and weighted ball for Dawber to run onto. Her first touch took her into space and her second was into the net.
The game ended 4-1 as the Reds go marching on.
Adelaide’s front two of Dawber and Worts both have double figures for the season now. The pair have 10 goals each making them both equal first on the league scorers table.
Both players are in terrific touch but are more than just scorers. They are involved in build-up play and open up space for their teammates with their movement, or well-timed lack of movement if needed.
Above: In-form Chelsie Dawber battles away against Wellington Phoenix. Photo: Adelaide United.
Adelaide are playing brilliant, entertaining, and effective football. Their back four are solid defensively and are all capable of scoring or assisting and the midfield are dynamic and hard working.
Annalee Grove is reliable in goal and although Adelaide rarely keep a clean sheet, teams have to work hard to beat her.
The only thing stopping the Reds is injuries or (temporarily) the weather.
Wellington will be disappointed in this result, which is an indication of how far they have come. This young team go into games believing they are an even chance against the opposition.
This is not without justification. They defend well without dropping huge numbers behind the ball and are now scoring regularly. Jale now has four this season, and other attackers are no longer hesitating around goal.
Wellington have a nice long break now before they face Western Sydney on February 27th in a game they will be confident of winning. Adelaide’s next game is against Melbourne Victory the day before in a game that will likely determine their place on the ladder.
Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis speaks to the media post-match. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
Speaking after the game, Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis said: “The own goal changed the game. We were a bit of the makers of our own undoing really. When you put the ball in the back of your net like that after that, the players’ heads went down and they were a bit gutted.
“We talked at halftime and felt like they were already a bit defeated as soon as that goal went in. I wasn’t too thrilled with the response because we’ve been in tough situations before.
“We played a little bit high risk, we played a little bit more on the front foot, we sent out fullbacks forward, we wanted to get the goal back because we felt like we could be in the game.
“And then obviously Adelaide are super dangerous on the counter and we knew that but we wanted to risk that anyway because lose 2-1, 3-1, it’s a loss in my eyes.
“Adelaide were good in the counter and undid us when that happened, two goals off of us trying to push and chase the win put the game to bed to be honest.”
Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from the head coaches from three of the four teams in action on Saturday: Perth Glory’s Alex Epakis, Melbourne Victory’s Jeff Hopkins, and Newcastle Jets’ Ash Wilson. He also hears from Perth Glory midfielder Sarah Cain (18/2/22).
Above: Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis speaking at his media conference this week. Photo: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis revealed that there were no hesitations whatsoever when it came to extending his tenure to a third season.
“The club didn’t need to convince me to stay. I’m really invested in the players and what we are trying to achieve. It was an easy decision and one I’m delighted about.”
“In my mind, we have an unlimited amount of potential, both individually and collectively. As a group, we have a great balance of players who are all contributing towards success. It’s exciting to be part of and I’m proud of it. I get to work with these players and staff every day and I’m proud of that.”
With Perth’s A-League Women season coming down to their final three matches against Melbourne Victory, Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix, they face a tough battle to make Finals, but one that remains realistic.
“I don’t want to put a limit on what we can achieve or what that may look like. We want to finish with three strong performances. If we pick up enough points to make the top four, great. Next year we want to have even more success and build towards that. A lot can happen in the next few weeks and I’m not writing off our chances.”
Perth’s head coach reiterated his observation that he knew early in pre-season that his team had huge potential going into the campaign.
“For me, having a six-week pre-season with the players was always going to be a huge starting point which was so much better than last year (when Perth had minimal preparation time and were still putting a squad together a month before the season started due to border restrictions).
“The players who were coming in and those we retained meant that I could have a specific pre-season. Every player came to the club knowing what to expect and I knew what to expect from them. I knew we had a strong foundation and we’d have stronger performances and it was exciting to see what we could achieve as a group.”
Whilst some saw last weekend’s 4-0 loss to Melbourne City as a decisive blow in the Western Australian side’s Finals hopes, Epakis has other thoughts.
“Our performances have been really good. The 4-0 loss to City needs to be put in context. It was 2-0 after 88 minutes and we kept trying to get something and as a result, it blew out. Those last goals were not huge lapses either.
“We’ve also showed in other games – Adelaide for example. They won 8-2 the game after we played them, and we beat them 1-0 with ten players. That was a huge result. If we focus towards what we did there against Melbourne Victory, we’ll be OK.
“I would describe our top four chances as optimistic. I am more interested in our performances over the final three weeks. That’s what we’re striving for. If we can try and do that regardless of opposition, then we have a chance of top four.
Above: Perth Glory’s Lisa De Vanna battles against Melbourne City’s Winonah Heatley last weekend. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
“The remaining fixtures for the teams, there are lots of equations and it can muddle your head. That is why I’m focusing on our performances. A lot of football is still to be played and lots can happen.”
For Perth Glory to be even being talked about as Finals contenders when they have only played one game at home all season (back in Round One), is an incredible achievement. That was something that the club’s head coach underlined.
“We want to be playing in Perth. We’ve lacked a competitive edge from not being able to play in WA. There’s the playing in front of our own support and the impact on the opposition with the travel and the time difference.
“You can’t dismiss that. It’s a really huge factor. We are trialling a bit of everything at the moment, but it is not home. Home advantage for Perth Glory is worth several points a season. Without that, the players have had to go above and beyond. It is us against the rest.
“I think if we’d had been able to play in Perth we’d be in an even stronger position. What this situation has caused though is a really big bond between the group and that has helped in difficult situations. Yet, it comes without the outside support network. You don’t want to just be suffocated by football, you need family and friends too.”
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s clash with Melbourne Victory, Epakis said: “It was a good opportunity to watch Victory play Sydney on Wednesday as we saw some real strengths of theirs. They have a fantastic front three who can create and take chances with very little space. We also saw a few little things in their structure which hopefully we can take advantage of and attack.
“They are an experienced team. Jeff (Hopkins, head coach) and the players have been together for a number of years now. It’s a match where both teams go into it knowing they need the three points. It will come down to which team can manage the critical moments better.
In terms of availability for tomorrow’s game, Perth’s head coach revealed: “Some players have had to go back to WA for school or other commitments. We’ve sent Poppie Hooks and Tijan McKenna back with our best wishes as they are about to enter their HSC year at school. Gemma Craine has gone back as well after her injury and she needs to be getting back to Perth. We have no new injuries though.”
Meanwhile, the club has revealed that their final regular-season A-League Women “home” match against Wellington Phoenix will be played in Tasmania at Launceston’s UTAS Stadium as a doubleheader with Glory’s men’s team playing Western United.
Above: Sarah Cain at her media conference on Thursday. Photo: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory’s Sarah Cain also spoke to the media this week and began by reviewing last weekend’s loss to Melbourne City.
“It was disappointing to lose to Melbourne City. Performance-wise we could have done more in that game, but there were factors like fatigue from the short turnaround. This week we’ve worked and made small changes on what let us down. We’re ready to go again now. The gap between us and the top four isn’t a 4-0 scoreline. We want to aim this weekend to prove that on any given day we can beat the top teams.
“Making the Finals would be massive given the circumstances we’ve had to face this season. Everyone has sacrificed so much to be here and we’re going for the same goal. Having a chance to make Finals is huge.”
Cain emphasized her focusses this season in developing herself as a player. “Physicality is something I’m looking at adding to my game. It’s been a big focus in training for me. Size is never going to be my thing, so I’ve tried to work harder on tackles and it came to life in the City game.”
With Perth now approaching their third month on the road, Cain reflected that she has had it easier than other players in the squad.
“Life on the road has been OK for me. Obviously, I relocated from Melbourne to the club anyway, so in that respect, it’s an easier adjustment for me compared to the local girls. I was already prepared to leave my family for five or six months anyway. Day to day there are challenges, but on the whole, the group are doing well.”
Examples of how well the group are doing came with the 22-year-old midfielder revealing how Glory have been celebrating birthdays in a rather unique fashion recently.
“We’ve had four birthdays in the last month among the team. We’re sticking together and taking every opportunity to be together. We added up the collective age of the birthdays in February and it came to 115 so we all went out to op shops, got old person clothes, and had an old people’s dress party!”
In terms of Victory the game against Melbourne Victory on Saturday, Cain knows there is a major challenge ahead: “They have lots of players in great form. Chidiac, Zimmerman who scored to draw the game for them against Sydney. We need to make sure that those sorts of players don’t get time on the ball. We need to shut them down quickly and not give them a sniff in the final third.”
Above: Melbourne Victory head coach Jeff Hopkins speaking to the media ahead of Saturday’s game with Perth Glory. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
Melbourne Victory head coach Jeff Hopkins opened his media conference by speaking of his pride in the team’s comeback from 2-0 down against Sydney FC on Wednesday.
“The performance in the second half was great. We could take our intensity and play to another level, and that was really good. It’s given us a lot of confidence that come Finals time once we get there that we can really give it a shake with any of the teams in the league.
“We’ve played well over the last four games. We’ve won and kept clean sheets. To put a performance in against the top team is great. First half we were well up against it and they (Sydney) were on top. The quality in our response in the second half was very pleasing. We made some changes at half-time and the players who came on really sparked the turning around of the game. One or two of the players were disappointed that we didn’t go on to win the game.”
Whilst that point against Sydney puts Victory in a great place in the Finals race, Hopkins is not looking any further ahead then Saturday’s game with Perth Glory.
“Right now, we just have to deal with what is in front of us on a day-to-day basis, look at the opposition and get out there. We’re game to game and going out to win each one.
“Perth have been great this year. They have really built and recruited really well. They will be tough, but we’re at home. We’ve looked at them, but it’s about our strengths and imposing ourselves on the opposition. We want to play at our intensity and focus on us.
“There are two teams who are desperate for a win. If we win, we’ll put a big gap between us and then. There will be some desperation from them. Whether that means they will be attacking or trying to keep things tight, I don’t know. The last 15-20 minutes could be like a cup-tie/Finals type game as there is so much at stake for both teams.”
Melbourne Victory’s head coach revealed that availability-wise, the news is reasonably positive. “Amy Jackson has a calf strain so she won’t be involved. Everyone else is looking good. Kyra (Cooney-Cross) copped a knock on her knee against Sydney, but she’s OK. There is some fatigue, so we might have to shuffle the pack a bit, but no-one else is definitely out.”
Above: Ash Wilson pictured in training. She gave a wide-ranging fascinating media conference today. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
Newcastle Jets head coach Ash Wilson provided an insight into the realities of being an A-League Women coach and player whilst having to work full-time amidst the unclear remaining schedule of matches this season.
Asked about the departure of goalkeeper Georgia Boric due to work commitments, Wilson said: “Georgia works for a private school as a rowing co-ordinator. She has a massive role organizing their program and with the number of catch-up games ahead and a lack of information about when they are going to take place, it means employers don’t have knowledge about the situation. It makes things very difficult. Her role changed into a more full-time role at the school as well as having to come into training.
“It’s an unfortunate reality of the women’s game – players working and trying to balance that with being full-time athletes. In some cases, it becomes difficult for the employer to balance that out and make the best of it for everyone involved.
“Georgia is saddened by the fact that she has had to make such a difficult decision. We want to make sure she feels supported by us, but sometimes in the women’s game, work is what keeps a roof over your head and that is the reality of it.
“The door is 100% open for her to come back next season. She is a quality keeper. This year has been unprecedented at the curve balls that it has thrown at everyone. I still can’t give players clear-cut guidelines as to when we are playing all our matches this season. Employers have every right to have concerns.
“The majority of my players have jobs. Tara Andrews is an engineer, Hannah Brewer is a teacher. Lauren Allan is a radiographer. So much is going on in their lives. The league does need to look into solutions into more investment. I’m in a position where I work full-time as a PE teacher and I’ve come straight from it to do this conference. We do it because of the passion we have.”
Above: Georgia Boric, who was forced to leave Newcastle Jets this week due to work commitments. Photo: Newcastle Herald.
Jets come into this weekend’s game at home to Western Sydney Wanderers on the back of a positive performance against Sydney FC – a game that Newcastle almost got a draw out of.
“We’ve got a lot to take out of that game against Sydney. The way we played, the pressure we put on Sydney. We fought til the end. They had a lot more shots than us, but quite a few were from outside the box. We need to keep going now. That’s the standard we need. Also taking that frustration from the end (disallowed equalizer at the death) and channel that. Training has been great and we’re all buzzing.”
With Jets’ upcoming fixtures against teams who are all around them in the table, Wilson is confident of positive results if the level of performance against Sydney can be replicated.
“Yeah. That’s the message. We have to put distance between ourselves and the others. We need to maintain that regardless of where our opposition are on the ladder. We need to be playing our best. We have to maintain that.”
“For us, the last games are really important. We can’t think about what’s happened in previous seasons (where Jets have played well but not got the number of wins that they could have) as its a different team now. We’ve earned more points than in the last two seasons. Our goal was to make Finals. That’s looking unlikely now, but we need to keep building and making those improvements.
“Over the next couple of weeks, we have no excuses and need to put in performances that warrant points and finish as strongly as we can. Finishing fifth or sixth is better than where we were last season (nearer the bottom).”
Asked about the specific areas that she feels there is room for improvement, the Jets head coach said: “There are times when we could be a little bit more clinical and composed, but I can’t fault the energy and effort of the girls or defensive setup.
“A lot of teams have been in the same boat as us. We’ve lost players at unexpected times. COVID and isolation has hit in a way that no-one could predict. The league has been like that for everyone though.
“We’ve scored more goals than we did last year, we have more different goalscorers. It’s just composure now.”
“We’ve had a normal training week in the way we’ve loaded the players up towards peaking towards Sunday.”
With regard to availability for tomorrow’s match, Wilson revealed: “Gema Simon has a low grade in the calf and won’t be available, but the rest of the girls have pulled up well after last week. Hannah Brewer is coming back into the mix after her time in isolation.”
Artwork: Newcastle Jets.
Also ahead of the game with Western Sydney Wanderers tomorrow, Newcastle Jets have announced the signing of young goalkeeper Sophie Magus for the remainder of the season.
Magus will join the team as a replacement for Georgia Boric who has had to leave the club due to work commitments.
The 22-year-old joins after spending time with the Western Sydney Wanderers back in 2020, and recently with top NPLW sides APIA Leichardt and Sydney University.
Coach Ash Wilson said she was pleased to be able to bring in someone of Magus’ quality after the unfortunate loss of Boric.
“It’s obviously disappointing to lose Georgia at this stage of the season,” Wilson said.
“Due to unexpected changing work commitments, she had to make the difficult decision to discontinue the season and it’s an unfortunate reminder of some of the pressures and challenges the women’s game brings of balancing work and football.
“Sophie is a promising young goalkeeper. She is brave, confident with her feet, and has a fantastic attitude toward making the most from her opportunities.
“It is great to be able to bring in someone with such potential and drive and I look forward to working with her over the coming weeks.”
Magus admitted she’d be looking for a move to the Jets and to work with Wilson for some time.
“I’ve been following the Jets for the past year and am really impressed with the setup Ash has,” Magus said.
“I think working under her was one of the biggest motivators for me coming here.
“I’m really excited to be part of an extremely professional and high-quality club. The girls have been so welcoming and I’m looking forward to ending the season on a high and working towards a place in the finals.”
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