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Dominant de la Harpe Seals The Glory

Perth Glory 1-0 Western Sydney Wanderers

By Ben Gilby (23/1/22)

Above: Perth Glory celebrates Deborah-Ann de la Harpe’s (centre) stunning free-kick which sealed an important three points. Photo: Perth Glory.

A sensational free-kick from Deborah-Ann de la Harpe, a player in outstanding form, gave Perth Glory a positive ending to another tough week for the club.

Glory put in a dominant offensive performance in the first half without reward, but five minutes into the second 45, they got the goal their efforts deserved. The Western Australian side are now only a point outside the Finals places.

Western Sydney Wanderers handed a first appearance to Alex Huynh as per head coach Catherine Cannuli’s hints in the pre-match press conference, she started for the first time since returning to the club from Fortuna Hjørring.

Perth were without Susan Phonsongkham, Cyera Hintzen, Gemma Craine, and Sarah Carroll amongst others. One positive was the return of Alana Jancevski on the bench. Head coach Alex Epakis, out of isolation after testing positive for COVID last weekend, had spoken pre-game about concerns about a flat start from his team after the devastating news late in the week that the Western Australian state border will remain closed, effectively rendering his team stranded in New South Wales.

Wanderers had the first opportunity of the game when Erica Galloway forced a misdirected backpass from Abbey Green along the right which allowed Bryleeh Henry to get a shot in from a tight angle that went wide.

Immediately afterward, another piece of loose play from Perth gave Western Sydney a corner. Henry played a delightful nutmeg through Mie Leth-Jans’ legs with Tash Rigby tidying up at the cost of another corner.

Also prominent for Wanderers in the early stages was the 15-year-old Alexia Apostolakis who was connecting her team well with passes through the midfield and standing up impressively to De Vanna.

**Above:** Alex Huynh pictured on her return to Western Sydney Wanderers colours against Perth Glory. **Photo:** Western Sydney Wanderers.

After a period of careful passing to keep possession, Glory almost took the lead. Leth-Jans gained possession in a crowded midfield and played a ball out to Deborah-Ann de la Harpe who was in space on the right. The midfielder curled a ball into the box around Danika Matos towards Sofia Sakalis whose effort came off Clare Hunt who was then able to clear off of the line.

The Western Australians were able to penetrate the Western Sydney defence again with Sakalis combining well with De Vanna down the left which Huynh did well to clear for a corner. Perth continued to build, but it all ended with Leth Jans’ effort troubling the water across the road from the stadium more than it did Sarah Langman in the Wanderers goal.

The corners were beginning to rack up for Perth with de la Harpe consistently curling them dangerously into the near post. The midfielder was also full of running down the right and providing consistent accurate passes into the stride of her teammates.

Another dangerous corner from de la Harpe from the left was met with a powerful header by an unmarked Leth Jans which Langman pushed onto the bar and then knocked forward as it bounced down.

de la Harpe was involved once more in the action after she was found in space at the back post by Hana Lowry, but Rosie Galea got back in time to put a tackle in to deny the 21-year-old Perth star who is in the form of her life.

The Western Australians hit the bar again just before the break when de la Harpe’s ball in from the left was met by the head of Sakalis. Langman was beaten, but she was saved by the woodwork. Despite all the Perth pressure, it remained goalless at the break.

Western Sydney’s central defensive pair of Huynh and Hunt both received yellow cards in the opening three minutes of the second half. From the latter, Perth was awarded a free-kick just outside the box to the left, parallel with the penalty spot. Up stepped de la Harpe to fire a curling rocket shot into the far corner of the net. A sensational way to score a first A-League Women’s goal.

**Above:** Goal scorer Deborah-Ann de la Harpe is swallowed up by delighted team-mates after scoring the only goal of the game. **Photo:** Perth Glory.

Perth continued to dominate and Lowry came close after being fed by De Vanna with her back to goal in the ‘D’. The 18-year-old turned and shot with Huynh dispatching the ball away at the cost of a corner.

Whilst the Wanderers were seen more from an offensive perspective in the second half, Perth had the majority of the chances.

With 13 minutes to go, they should have doubled their lead when substitute Leena Khamis was played in with a ball over the top, but Langman stood up strong to repel her effort away for a corner.

Khamis had another golden opportunity when she was found by the newly arrived Aideen Keane, but again her effort was repelled by the Wanderers goalkeeper.

Despite missing these final chances, Perth held on comfortably to record their third win of the season – a result that lifts them to fifth place – just one point away from Melbourne Victory in third.

Reflecting on events, Western Sydney Wanderers defender Alex Huynh said: “They had the momentum. We did well to absorb the pressure. Credit to Perth, they have been hammering us. With a team like Perth, we need to respect them, but I think we showed them too much respect.”

A disappointed Wanderers goalkeeper Sarah Langman was extremely disappointed post-match: “We need to do better in the final third, to be honest. Defensively we were OK. We just need to have more shots in general.”

Lisa De Vanna spoke about the difficulties of the week that her team overcome. “I’m a bit sore, but luckily I have the young players to do the running for me. I don’t think I’m quite right still, but another game or so I’ll get there. Overall I’m very proud of the girls because you can see a lot of heart which drives me to push a bit.

It was a good win after the news in the week (the Western Australia state border remaining closed indefinitely). I’m devastated about the Premier making those calls, particularly as I wanted to finish my career in front of home fans.

“The response this weekend has been great, I think every WA sporting team has won. We’re showing that we can come across adversity.”

**Above:** Deborah-Ann de la Harpe and Hana Lowry (facing camera) – two players who Perth Glory coach Alex Epakis was delighted with today. **Photo:** Perth Glory.

Alex Epakis was full of pride in his team’s performance afterward. “After the Newcastle game, we realized that we put together a performance for 70% of the match, and the focus this week was to pull that to 90 and 100% and we absolutely did that.

“For me it was the best performance we’ve had over the two seasons (that I’ve been head coach). We controlled the match from start to finish. They didn’t have many chances. We just needed to score a couple more goals for it to be an absolutely perfect performance.”

With his team now just a point outside the Finals places, Perth’s head coach outlined how this matches up with his pre-season aims. “I knew pre-season that, with the squad we had, despite having a lot of new faces…I knew we’d have players with the right attitude and mentality. Our position now for me is justifiable. I know people outside the club didn’t really expect that as they wrote us off from day one.”

With the state border closure extended indefinitely, it has been another tough week for the club, but the players’ response continued to be impressive as Epakis underlined: “They’re like absolute champions. I only got out of isolation myself yesterday, but the whole group have been fantastic. Every session that I watched on video whilst I wasn’t there was good.

“With the news that then came through later in the week, we made sure that we drew a line in the sand and said that the only way we could respond to it was through our performance on the field. It’s our only way to express how we feel and we did it in a way that would make us proud, and I think we did that today.”

It was another impressive display from both Deborah-Ann de la Harpe and Hana Lowry as Perth’s coach recognized: “They’ve both been great over the last two weeks, good contributors to the team’s performances. Deb has found form at the right time of the season and made a huge contribution. The goal was fantastic, but there were other really good things that she did in general play.

“With Hana, as she has Sadie (Lawrence) and Mie (Leth Jans) being behind her, it means that she just has the support to be free and attack, doing the things she needs to do help us in the front third. The experienced spine behind her is a big help.”

Epakis also addressed the fact that Gemma Craine was not in the squad today by stating: “She doesn’t have COVID, she just was not selected for tactical reasons. She’s fit, healthy, and ready to contribute to the team this week.”

He also emphasized the fact that will be making sure that his side will not be resting on their laurels after this performance: “It’s very important that we do assess the game. Although the majority of the performance was good, I know that we can do better. We’ve got a high at the moment, we’ve got momentum, the group is buzzing and we just want to harness that for as long as we can.”

Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-2-3-1): Aquino, Green, K.Carroll, Anton, Rigby, Leth Jans, Lawrence, Lowry, De Vanna, de la Harpe, Sakalis. Substitutes: Cain, Keane, Jancevski, L.Khamis, Newbon (GK).

Scorers: de la Harpe 50′.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-4-2): Langman, Matos, Hunt, Huynh, Apostolakis, Galea, Price, Cooper, Halloway, Henry, Copus-Brown. Substitutes: Collister, Galic, Gallagher, Allen, S.Khamis (GK).

Referee: Rebecca Mackie.

Attendance: 493.

King’s Lynn Town: Beating Targets & Pushing For Silverware

Above: King’s Lynn Town lineup prior to their game with Caister in the Norfolk Women’s Cup last weekend. Photo: Richard Brown.

One of the real success stories of the season so far in Norfolk has been that of King’s Lynn Town from the fifth-tier Eastern Region Premier Division. Captain Tiffany Forshaw and vice-captain Jodie Hopkins spoke to Darrell Allen (22/1/22).

Tiffany and Jodie began by introducing themselves. Tiff’s story is one of progression which now sees her as King’s Lynn Town Club captain: “I have been playing football since the age of nine and have played for Kings Lynn Town now for the last six years.

I’ve been within the different leagues in women’s football starting in Norfolk League Two with Brandon Town to the Women’s Premier League with Lowestoft Town. I originally started at King’s Lynn before venturing out to other teams through the years. So, feel I have a good experience at all levels. I have been King’s Lynn Town’s vice-captain and now for the last two seasons, captain.”

Jodie’s story also represents one of progression and a football career to date spanning more than 20 years. “I first started playing football when I was four years old. So football has always been a huge part of my life! It is all I have ever known to be honest. My grandad used to take my brother to football training with the village team and I went along for fun, but it wasn’t long before I was joining in with the boys’ team.

I first started at King’s Lynn when I was seven years old. I joined the Player Development Centre that used to take place in Hunstanton with Jess Ibrom. I went through the age groups here, but I was then put forward for Norwich City Football Club trials at the age of eight, after which I got accepted into the girl’s academy pathway there which was known as ‘The Girls Centre of Excellence’.”

**Above:** Tiffany Foreshaw in action for King’s Lynn Town. **Photo:** Richard Brown.

“I continued to play for King’s Lynn for as long as I could but due to training twice a week for Norwich and games on a Saturday, I then had to give up my King’s Lynn commitment as they fell on the same day. I then went through Norwich CoE from under 10s to under 16s after which I then made the step up to Norwich Ladies football team continuing to play for a further two years.

“After a short time out, I was contacted by Lynn Ladies manager at the time, Shelly Stewart. I went along to their open session back in the summer of 2016 and I re-joined Lynn as one of the ladies. I was then at Lynn for a few years before I went to play for Peterborough Northern Star FC but decided due to travel commitments, I was ready to play closer to home and was welcomed by back Shelly with open arms.

“I re-joined Lynn Ladies in 2018 and haven’t left since. Over the last couple of seasons, we have become more involved with the main football club and became officially amalgamated with the club, so we now come under the banner of King’s Lynn Town Ladies Football Club. My current role at the club is vice-captain of King’s Lynn Town Ladies football team”

In terms of her own role at the club, Tiffany was noticeably thanked the contribution of others. “As captain of this great bunch of girls, it makes my job so much easier especially with the help of Jodie. We together drive the team through difficult games that do not always go our way. With our experience together we drive the team match days and in training. I enjoy my role the girls are so willing to learn and develop it really is a privilege to wear the armband!”

Jodie revealed that her roles are varied: “I have several at the club which can be very busy at times, but when you are dedicated to your team there’s nothing you wouldn’t do for them. At current, I am a player and vice-captain of the team. I am an active committee member of the Ladies’ team which involves my regular communication with club chairman Steve Cleeve and Norman to arrange bits for match days.

**Above:** Jodie Hopkins of King’s Lynn Town. **Photo:** Richard Brown.

“I run the social media pages. I write the articles for the Ladies’ team that get published in the men’s home game match day programmes and with our manager Joe Simpson leaving, I have recently stepped into that department too.

“Over recent weeks myself and Alice Collins (also a player) have taken training sessions but with Alex Cook now coming in, the pressure of organizing and leading training sessions and match day organization has been slightly lifted but as vice-captain it’s my job to support Alex in getting his feet under the table as this is his first experience with a women’s team as I continue to drive the standards of the ladies in training and on match days. I couldn’t be prouder of the girls; their efforts and commitment are absolutely phenomenal. It’s an honour to represent the club in the way that I do on and off the pitch.”

King’s Lynn Town’s season so far has been fantastic as the team sit on 20 points in fourth place. Jodie is extremely pleased with how things have been going.

“I personally believe we have already proved a lot of people wrong and given other teams a lot to talk about with regards to our debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division. We came in as underdogs after our application for promotion was accepted and I believe we have fully stepped up to the standard of this league.

“The team cohesion is second to none both on and off the pitch. It’s difficult to pick a specific stand-out moment because of everything we have achieved so far this season, when you play football with not just friends but friends who become family it makes the experience 100 times better.

**Above:** Tiffany Foreshaw battles for possession. Photo: Neil Dady.

Jodie also acknowledged the contribution of the fans in her stand out moments to date, “Two big stand out moments for me so for this season are the support we receive at our home matches at The Walks. It is amazing and it really helps to boost us with match day performances to know we have a 12th man behind us. The other moment is beating one of our county rivals and also current league leaders Wymondham Town at The Walks in a 4-0 victory.”

Much of Kings Lynn Town’s success has been down to the leadership of manager Joe Simpson who left the club to pursue new opportunities following the 1-1 draw at St. Ives on 5^th December. Captain Tiffany was only full of praise for the outgoing boss and what his departure meant to the club.

“Joe leaving was a massive loss to this club, his dedication and commitment to this club was outstanding. His late nights and early morning trying to get the ladies’ team on par with the men never went unnoticed by us as a team. For me personally, he challenged me to think outside the box when it came to developing my football abilities, sometimes with a little resilience from me but I trusted in his process.

“The team also believed in this when our formation changed and structure of how we play, as the season so far supports it was for the better. With Alex coming in he has the same ethos so this will no doubt continue. We wish Joe all the best in his new venture”

Since Joe’s departure, King’s Lynn have played two matches, losing 4-1 at Wymondham on 9th January and last weekend saw a 6-0 success against Caister in the Norfolk County FA Women’s Cup quarter-final. Jodie gave me her thoughts on the game.

**Above:** Jodie Hopkins on the ball for King’s Lynn Town. **Photo:** Neil Dady.

“It’s always hard to give much detail as when I’m playing, I’m just in the moment and don’t really think about anything else. It has massively helped having Rich Brown come in and take on the role as Press Officer. Rich has provided match reports that I really can’t disagree with so far.

“As Rich said, we started in bullish mood, setting a high press and taking much of the play to Caister so they knew from kick-off that we weren’t going to let them out easily. I feel we displayed a very dominant first-half performance. We started the second half composed and maintaining possession. We moved the ball patiently awaiting scoring opportunities. It’s a great feeling winning 6-0 away from home under new management. A win always boosts everyone’s spirits which makes a lively bus journey home.

“Caister are currently three leagues below us and have been on a very successful run, prior to the game we looked to see how they were getting on, and its quite clear they score quite a lot of goals. As Rich said, Caister endeavoured to absorb the Linnets constant onslaught by playing the ball long and high from their defensive line but they never gave up and they worked us right to the final whistle.”

King’s Lynn Town return to The Walks this Sunday for their first home game of 2022 against Dunstable and I asked Tiffany what it means to play all home games at the venue.

“It means a lot to play at The Walks, it gives the ladies team a more professional look. We also have a ground well looked after and no longer have to set up goals and check for debris. It will be great to have some home games, some of the travel can take it out of you on match days. Hopefully, this gives us some consistency as we push on the league.”

**Above:** Jodie Hopkins – confident about her team’s chances for the rest of the season. **Photo:** Neil Dady.

When King’s Lynn Town were promoted to Step Five many people including myself were expecting them to struggle, Tiffany spoke about how targets have now been altered but still remain achievable, “I personally think we have already proved a lot of people wrong about where we would be sitting in the league this season. I think with this talented group of players nothing is impossible. We very much are competing for the top three and on the basis of our first half of the season, this is not an unrealistic goal. The team will continue to push hard and fight for every game. Let’s say it will be a very entertaining second half of the season!”

Jodie also acknowledged new targets but whilst also telling me standards have been increased and nothing has been accomplished yet

“First of all, our job is to finish what we have started this season, we have already proved a lot of people wrong and given other teams a lot to talk about with regards to our debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division. We want to continue to develop our squad adding strength and depth across the pitch, in the changing room, and off the pitch. We really want to cement the foundations that we have laid so far this season.

“At the beginning of the season, we said where we would like to finish and we said in our first season mid-table would be amazing. But from the first half of the season we have proven we are more than capable enough of this and we have accepted the challenge of competing for the top three.

“This week we have found out that we will play Mulbarton in the semi-final of the county cup. The hope of all the team is to play in the final, challenging to be one of the best teams in Norfolk.

“In addition to this, the main goal for the remainder of the season is to continue what we’ve started as underdogs and continue to step up to the standard of this league.”

Matildas Trio Speak After Opening Asia Cup Win

Above: Holly McNamara, who spoke about her Australia debut on Friday’s Asia Cup opener against Indonesia. Photo: Football Australia.

Ben Gilby hears from debutant Holly McNamara, two-goal Ellie Carpenter, and Clare Wheeler who started her first Matildas match on Friday (23/1/22).

It has been a fairytale few months for Holly McNamara. The Melbourne City youngster has taken the A-League Women by storm and on Friday, she made her international debut. “It felt great, it was such an honour,” the teenager explained. “I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me and given me the opportunity to do this.

“The biggest thing that’s gotten me here is the support I’ve had from my family and friends. They’ve got me through the tough times to get to the good times.

“I spoke to them afterward and I got some videos sent through by my siblings of my parents’ reactions when I came on – there were a few screams!

McNamara explained her feelings on Friday as she was told she was coming off the bench. “I was just told to go for the jog and straight away I was so excited…ecstatic! Then the adrenaline took over and I was just focused on coming on and making an impact.”

The youngster, who is 19 today has been on a rollercoaster ride of emotions in recent times “These whole two weeks have been crazy, quite a shock and overwhelming. The game itself was crazy, very different from what I’m used to, and I’m glad I got to go on.

“The overall thing that came out of that game was the clean sheet and preparing for the next one.

As well as the clean sheet, the game saw Sam Kerr break Australia’s goalscoring record – and made even more special for McNamara as it was the striker who presented her with her first Matildas cap.

“First, congrats to Sam, she definitely deserves it, one of the hardest workers that I’ve seen. Getting my cap from her, especially after her milestone in the game was amazing. The little speech she made for me was very heartfelt.”

“For me, I need to work hard in training to earn more game time prove my worth and be confident in the way I play.”

**Above:** Ellie Carpenter who highlighted the importance of Australia’s strong start to the Asia Cup.Photo: Football Australia.

Ellie Carpenter highlighted what her focus was immediately after Friday’s win over Indonesia. “Right now, we’re looking at recovery, which is very important, especially in a short tournament like this, similar to the Olympics where we had to back up every two days. Ice baths and massage are particularly important for me.”

Looking back on Friday’s game, the Olympique Lyonnais star emphasized the importance of their dominant performance: “Reflecting on the game, it was a great start for us. We really wanted to hit the ground running and be clinical in the final third and we definitely did that. Now it is about building the performance and getting to where we want to be for the final games.

“It was really important for us to set the tone early. Some tournaments we haven’t had the best of starts. This was one big thing that we wanted to do, and we definitely achieved that. We’re keen to keep it going and build on every match.”

“It was important to be clinical and get those final third shots in to get confidence in the early games so come the semi-final or final we know we can finish those chances. Anything that we can do to be prepared for those final matches we will. We wanted to come in from the start and set the tone.”

Carpenter had her own personal reasons for enjoying the outcome – she trebled her goalscoring tally for her country during the match. “It felt really nice to get on the scoreboard (twice). I’ve been working on my play in the final third and in my finishing, so I’m happy it has paid off. Any way that I can contribute to this team winning I will.”

The defender also spoke about her pride in Sam Kerr breaking Australia’s goalscoring record. “To see her break record after record is amazing and I feel very honoured to be playing alongside her. She’s a great captain and an even better player for our country and we’re honoured to have her in our team. She’s the best striker in the world at the moment and it was nice to share that moment with her on the field.”

Looking ahead to tomorrow’s second group match with the Philippines, Carpenter identified the aims for the tie. “We just want to build on our performance from the first game. We know how we want to play and we want to take the next step to the next level. Whatever team we play, we’ll come out with the same motivation and mentality. We’re ready for this match.”

**Above:** Clare Wheeler talked about her joy at getting a first Matildas start and why the first result and performance were so vital. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Clare Wheeler spoke about her pride in starting her first Matildas match in the Asia Cup on Friday. “I can barely find words to describe it – an amazing feeling to get my starting debut. The result and performance were the icing on the cake.

“When Tony told me (that I would be starting), I was ecstatic. I knew I had a job to do and we really wanted to make a statement in the opening game and that’s what we did.

Wheeler highlighted the thought process behind fielding such a strong team for the game against Indonesia before reviewing the outcome. “Regardless of ranking, we treat every team the same. We want to win this tournament – no ifs or buts, so that’s the way we treat every game and that’s what we did.

“There were many positives from the match – Sammy (Kerr) breaking the goalscoring record, Holly (McNamara) making her debut plus myself, Mary (Fowler), and Courtney Nevin making our Asia Cup debuts, all amazing things to see in a first game.”

“We’ve been focusing on recovery, getting movement into our legs with this short turnaround for the Philippines on Monday and we’re looking at that as the next game we need to win.”

Finals Hopes On The Line In Gosford

Above: Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Catherine Cannuli speaking to the media ahead of tomorrow’s game. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers (22/1/22).

Tomorrow’s A-League Women game between Perth Glory and Western Sydney Wanderers sees two teams with Finals hopes facing off in Gosford. To preview the game, Ben Gilby heard from both head coaches, Catherine Cannuli of Wanderers and Alex Epakis of Perth. Glory’s Danish international Mie Leth-Jans additionally spoke about her thoughts on the competition halfway through her first season in Australia.

Ahead of Sunday’s game against Perth Glory, Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Catherine Cannuli began her media conference by reflecting on last weekend’s 1-0 defeat at home by Melbourne Victory.

“We should have got a little bit more out of that game, I thought it was a tough one. It took me a few days to re-group and start to look ahead towards Perth. I thought the girls worked super hard and we just have to put it behind us and look forward.

Cannuli spoke about how her players are continuing to come together as the season reaches an important stage. “Team cohesion is great. They are a good bunch of girls who have a great work ethic. We’ve been through a few tough times, but they are gelling really well. I can’t believe we’re halfway through the season already.”

The Wanderers head coach highlighted 15-year-old midfielder Alexia Apostolakis who is becoming a regular member of the starting 11. “Her development has been great. She is a shy, quiet girl, but the older girls are really getting around her and mentoring her and giving her that confidence and belief to get better and better every week. She’s going to be one to watch for the future, but she is already putting her mark on the A-League Women.”

Cannuli also hinted that Alex Hyunh may well make her first appearance for the club since re-joining temporarily. “We don’t just sign players just to sign them. Alex is a big part of this team. She knows what the culture of the club is and, yeah, you might see her this weekend.”

With Western Sydney having scored only two goals in their six matches so far, the coach emphasized that improvements are needed. “There is no denying the fact that we haven’t scored enough goals this season or been fluent in the front third. It’s something we are continuing to work on. We need to be creating more chances and getting more shots on goal.”

However, on the positive side of the ledger, in those six matches, only four goals have been conceded, something that is the result of a lot of hard work pre-season. “First and foremost we worked on our defensive structure, it’s something we’ve been poor on in previous campaigns and so that was a big focus in our pre-season.”

With Sunday’s game being officially a home game for Perth Glory, despite it being played in Gosford, New South Wales due to Western Australia’s border closure, Cannuli sees a big advantage for her team in avoiding having to travel across the country to play the Glory.

“Perth has been on the road for a few weeks now. They have been chopping and changing and it’s not easy to be away from home and living out of a hotel. It can definitely be an advantage to us. However, we’re not going into the game thinking we are definitely getting the three points. We’ll know we will have to work hard for them if we want to get them.

“The girls will go out there knowing that they need to get the three points. If we want to stay in the pack, we need to get as many points as possible. They know how crucial it is for us to get a win this week to keep building momentum.”

**Above:** Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis – buoyed by an excellent performance in difficult circumstances last weekend. **Photo:** Perth Glory.

Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis has revealed that he is well on the road to recovery after testing positive for COVID on matchday against Newcastle Jets last weekend.

“I’m feeling OK. I’ve not really had any symptoms since I tested positive. It’s frustrating that I can’t be out there at the moment, but I’m looking forward to getting out soon.

He highlighted the impact that the club’s recent run of matches so close together has had on his players. “The competition schedule wasn’t sensible from a sports science point of view. After going three weeks without a game, we were expected to play three games in a week.

“Some players couldn’t cope with that schedule and have got medium-term injuries. We are hoping to get them back in the next couple of weeks.

“We have a good squad and the last match [at Newcastle] showed that players can step up, even out of position, and still play well.

“At this stage, I am the only COVID case in the group, so things are getting better. The three players are out of quarantine.

“Those that were injured last weekend will not be back for Sunday. If I test negative on my next PCR then I am out of quarantine too.”

Perth’s head coach explained what it’s been like to have to coach from his living room over the past week. “Yeah, it’s been interesting, I’d never missed a matchday before or training session. I’ve just had to accept it.

“I don’t think I’ve ever done anything as difficult as watching a match from my living room. We did our best to have communication with the bench throughout the match, but there was an empty feeling.”

“Having said all that, it emphasizes again how good the performance was against Newcastle, considering all the disruptions. It is a real significant milestone and achievement for us.

Looking ahead to Sunday’s game against the Wanderers, Epakis said: “I think it’s going to be a tense game because it’s a critical one for both teams. Western Sydney is a proud team, they probably haven’t had the consistency of performance that they were hoping for.

“It’s a bit similar to our situation and so it’s timely for us to be playing each other. It will be tense to start with, but when the game gets its flow, it should be a good one for the neutral.

“I’m really excited about what the second half of the season looks like. I think there is a sense of optimism about the group in terms of what we can achieve.”

**Above:** Mie Leth-Jans, Perth Glory’s Danish international pictured in action against Canberra United in Blacktown recently. **Photo:** Kris Goman.

Perth Glory’s Danish international Mie-Leth Jans is halfway through her first season in Australian football. She spoke to the media this week about how she’s finding life at the club.

“I’ve known from the start what is expected of me as Alex (Epakis, head coach) and I had good conversations before I got here. I feel that I have gained a lot from being part of this group.

“I feel very comfortable now I know the style of play here. It has been good that people are noticing what I can bring to the team.

“I find the standard very interesting. It’s a lot more of a transitional game, very nice and intense as well.

“It’s quite physical, but the Swedish and Danish leagues I’ve played in are physical too. The difference is in what the referees allow – they allow more to go on here.”

Despite Perth having put in a hugely positive performance at Newcastle last weekend, it is now four games since Glory won. Jans emphasized that confidence remains high in the squad.

“We’re good as a team. The first three games when we moved to a hub in New South Wales were tough as we played them all in a week. However, we recovered well, better than I expected.

“We went over in detail what we need to do to be better and we connected well. It has helped us to get on even better as a group and know who we are.

“Right now we are having to take each day as it comes. We never know what is happening with COVID.

“We are being precautions when around each other, following all the rules and that’s the best we can do to keep safe.”

Reflecting on the Jets game specifically last week, the Dane “We played some parts of the game really well last week and were disappointed not to get three points as we deserved them. We’re ready to go again [against Western Sydney Wanderers on Sunday] and hopefully, we’ll get the three points this time.”

“We’re focused on the final third of the pitch for the next game – that’s where the goals are scored and where we can win the game.”

A-League Women Top Tussle Previewed

Above: Sydney FC goalkeeper Jada Whyman, who is aiming to equal Lydia Williams’ record of seven consecutive clean sheets when she faces Melbourne City. Photo: A-League Women.

Ahead of Saturday’s A-League Women game between unbeaten leaders Sydney FC and second-placed Melbourne City, Ben Gilby heard from Sydney goalkeeper Jada Whyman plus the Melbourne City pair of Rhianna Pollicina and head coach Rado Vidosic (21/1/22).

Jada Whyman is looking to equal a record held by her hero this weekend. Lydia Williams’ run of seven consecutive W-League clean sheets is in Whyman’s sights and if she can keep second-placed Melbourne City out on Saturday, it will be a milestone achievement in her career.

The 22-year-old Sydney FC shot-stopper, who is also an ambassador for Impetus‘ charity partners, John Moriarty Football, spoke to the media this week about the battle of the top two in the A-League Women.

“I have become aware of the record over the last week or so from commentary watching last week’s game back and a few people have mentioned it!

“Lydia was a big inspiration to me coming into this league. It’s just been nice to match her in some areas. I still look up to her, but I also want to take a step away from being that little kid looking up to Lydia!

“Going into the Matildas camp I’ve been competing with her for a spot and even both playing in this league at the same time it’s competing against her. It’s about trying to be better. Coming up against her pushes me to become a better goalkeeper. It’s all about development for me and having chances to push myself a bit harder.”

Whyman knows that, if she is going to equal Williams’ record, she will have to do it the hard way against a Melbourne City side boasting the A-League Women’s top scorer, Hannah Wilkinson, and the second-placed side on the table.

“It is a big game. Melbourne City have been doing great, but we are also in good form. The things we have been doing in training have gone out onto the pitch and that’s a testament to the team. The way we have defended through the first six games has been awesome. We’ve just got to keep doing what we’ve been doing and if records get broken, then records get broken. If they don’t, then that’s OK too.

“There hasn’t much specific focus on Melbourne City, we’re just focusing on ourselves and our normal defence. I have no doubt that we’ll do the same fantastic job that we’ve done previously.”

**Above:** Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic speaking to the media today. **Photo:** Melbourne City.

Rado Vidosic, Melbourne City’s head coach spoke about the feeling in the camp ahead of Saturday’s big game. “The overwhelming emotion in the team is not nervousness ahead of the game but excitement. We have had a strong run in our last four games. We won in Adelaide with a clean sheet. We are quite confident that we can have a similar result in Sydney. Maybe confidence is the right emotion.”

In terms of specific focuses for the game, Vidosic emphasized that “We know all about their strengths and how they utilize them. If we can control them (Sydney) in those moments when they are dangerous, then half of our job is done. They need to concentrate on our strengths too, so it won’t be all one-way traffic. We are confident that we can get something out of the game.

“We’ve played our last four games against top four teams. Tomorrow is the first time that they (Sydney) have played a top-four team so it is a little bit unrealistic to measure their success. They have not been outside of New South Wales either.

They were dominant against Canberra, I thought that would be their biggest test, but they were unbelievable. It is not so much about what they have done so far. Against us, it should be much harder for them.

“The key game for us this season was Melbourne Victory, which made us think ‘Hang on! We are good enough to do something!’ This (the Sydney game) will be our biggest test so far as we will be playing a team that is high on confidence and they are full of top-quality players. They are young, mobile, and have an excellent coach.”

When asked about how he expects the match to go, City’s head coach said: “The game will be played all over the pitch, so we will be defending as high up as possible. We will try to force them to play a different style of football. We need to be organized and defend with 11 players if we need to do that. We need to have a great piece of concentration and know the micro-game with everyone involved. They can punish you very easily, so we even have to think about defending when we are attacking.

“In terms of training during the week, we don’t separate our starting 11 from the rest, so everyone gets the opportunity to practice and is exposed to our principles. The only time we have a clear starting 11 is on the weekend, that way everyone is prepared to do their job. When our players get a chance to perform, they all put their hands up and do their best.”

City’s head coach then outlined the important influence that Rhianna Pollicina has had on his team this season. “She has been a very important player for us, outstanding and creative in our midfield. I have challenged her to score more goals as she doesn’t enter the penalty box enough, but it is happening more frequently and she is reaping the rewards for it. She has great close control.”

Vidosic revealed that Winonah Heatley is back with his squad after returning from Australia’s pre-Asia Cup training camp and is potentially available to play some part in the game at Sydney.

“Obviously she was disappointed not to make the final squad. She had a conversation with (Tony) Gustavsson (Matildas head coach) and he explained why he didn’t select her and she’s back here and happy to have a chance to play. She has been with us for a few months and has developed friendships and camaraderie at our club. Hopefully, she can get another invitation to the Matildas camp for future tournaments and future games.”

**Above:** Rhianna Pollicina speaking to the media ahead of Melbourne City’s top-of-the-table clash against Sydney FC. **Photo:** Melbourne City.

Rhianna Pollicina spoke about how different life is like in Victoria compared to her previous club Newcastle Jets.

“The difference in the facilities is the biggest thing and how professional it is here. The access to dietrist and full-time strength and conditioning is top-notch, no disrespect to the Jets.”

Pollicina reviewed her performance in City’s win at Adelaide last weekend by explaining “It was obviously nice to get on the scoresheet, but it was also about the other 10 players. We travelled over there on the day as well. Hopefully, I can now get a few more goals for the club.

“The first 30 minutes we struggled, Adelaide definitely came to play and we always knew that. Once we got past that 30 minutes, we started to stick to our game plan and look after the ball more. From half-time it was a question of could we stay composed in that front third, could we keep recycling the ball and make Adelaide run. It was a different City side. When we lost the ball, we got it back within five seconds. The goal eventually came. Credit to our girls, we didn’t give up for the whole 90.

“We’re definitely improving each week. We didn’t play at our best against Wellington, but that came after a week off. The improvements are coming and we’re developing the game plan that Rado (Vidosic) wants. We all want to work for each other. The energy and effort that everyone puts in for each other is there and as the weeks go on we all get better.

The 24-year-old highlighted how well she is linking up with Rebekah Stott in the midfield. “Playing with Stotty is amazing. I think we offer the same qualities. We’re both good on the ball, so we just understand each other as players. She can hold the ball up, she can beat players and play the killer pass. She saw me and played me through perfectly.”

Looking ahead to this weekend’s battle of the top two, the striker said: “Going over to Sydney is exciting. Most of my family will be coming down for the game and my friends. Sydney FC are the benchmark team in the competition as they are top of the table, but all of our 16 players travelling are up for the game.

“When you look at Sydney FC’s midfielders, they are all quality players and they have all played together for a while. But our formation can trouble any team and so they don’t faze us. We’ll stick to our game plan and focus on ourselves. We’ll start with our press.

“They have quality players missing but have others to come in. We’ll all be ready to go for the battle.”

Multiple Records Tumble As Tillies Open Cup Campaign

Australia 18-0 Indonesia

By Kieran Yap (21/1/22)

Above: Ellie Carpenter jumps for joy after scoring for the Matildas in Mumbai as they opened their Asia Cup campaign in some style. Photo: Football Australia.

The Matildas hit the ground running with an incredible 18-0 win over Indonesia to kick off their Asian Cup campaign. Nine goals on either side of halftime meant that Australia had the best possible start to the tournament and sent a strong message to the other contenders.

Not only was this Australia’s biggest ever Asia Cup win, it saw Sam Kerr become her country’s all-time record goal scorer, female or male.

It was a ruthless opening, from the kick-off Steph Catley found Sam Kerr with a long pass from the left flank. Australia won a succession of corners but could not convert them into goals. Kerr scored Australia’s first and her personal 50^th in the ninth minute. Emily van Egmond, playing in an advanced role found Kerr with a defence splitting pass that the skipper easily put beyond the Indonesian goalkeeper.

**Above:** Sam Kerr, officially the greatest goalscorer in Australian football history. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Two minutes later Kerr doubled the lead with another easy finish and Caitlin Foord added a third after controlling a cross and shifting onto her right foot to shoot from close range.

Mary Fowler was next to get in on the act. Ellie Carpenter raced infield from right-back and released Fowler behind the defence. She had options in the middle but chose the safest one, her shot was buried with confidence and it was 4-0 by the 20^th minute of the match.

Hayley Raso never seems to miss an opportunity to risk her own safety for the Green and Gold and her first goal typified her attitude if not her usual method of scoring.

Foord was put into space on the left and sent in a dangerous cross. Raso launched herself ballistically at the ball and headed into the net after colliding with the goalkeeper.

Amid the scoring, Australia had numerous calls for penalties turned down, mostly for debatable handballs. In the 26th minute, they finally received a spot-kick after Foord was brought down in the box. Kerr completed her hattrick with ease.

**Above:** Ellie Carpenter – who after only scoring once in her previous 50 plus caps added two in one match today. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Prior to this game, Ellie Carpenter had only one international goal to her name. Despite being one of The Matildas best-attacking weapons, she rarely shoots. Her last goal was in the 2017 Algarve Cup when she bundled over a corner against Denmark.

Last night, her addition to the goal procession was much more stylish. A flowing, inventive move that involved a Kerr backheel and a Fowler run, resulted in Raso turning the ball to Carpenter. Her acceleration took her into space and her finish was emphatic. The ball hit the top corner to make it 7-0, and as the tournament goes on, it will be handy to know that she can score these types of goals if needed.

Kerr scored another from close range and then earned another penalty that van Egmond dispatched to round off the scoring for the first half.

In the second half, Gustavsson took the opportunity to rest players. Four changes were made at halftime with Catley, Fowler, Foord, and Clare Polkinghorne making way for Courtney Nevin, Kyah Simon, Tameka Yallop, and Aivi Luik.

**Above:** Emily van Egmond, Australia’s hat-trick hero (centre) celebrates. **Photo:** Football Australia.

It was a chance to preserve some of the top talent in the squad such as the irreplaceable Catley and Polkinghorne and to help players like Simon and Yallop find their scoring touch. If Australia is to be successful in this tournament, these players will need to be confident and in form.

Carpenter scored her second with a cross that sailed into the far corner. Nevin made her first impact with a strong run and low cross for Kerr to score her fifth of the afternoon.

Van Egmond scored her second with a close-range header before Yallop struck through a crowded penalty area to bring up Australia’s 13^th goal.

Kyah Simon scored her first of the tournament when Kerr and Carpenter exchanged passes to set her up. The Tottenham striker controlled and turned to squeeze in a 14^th goal for the rampant Aussies. Van Egmond added another a minute later and with Indonesia still reeling, Simon scored her second and Australia’s 16^th.

**Above:** Aivi Luik (centre) marked her return from international retirement by scoring her first-ever Matildas goal at the age of 36. **Photo:** Football Australia.

After a long career, a retirement, and a return to the national team. Aivi Luik scored her first international goal. A near-post corner was met by the defender who flicked it with her heel to score the most artistic and stylish of the 17 goals so far.

Raso wrapped things up in a nice green and gold ribbon when she met a cross at the far post to end the rout with an 18^th Matildas goal.

This by any measure was a job well done by the players and Tony Gustavsson. Australia needed to win the first game and to do so convincingly. China had won their match 4-0 and looked dangerous. An 18-0 victory over any opponent is a statement of intent.

Most importantly, all of the Aussies that took to the field played their roles. Clare Wheeler was disciplined and committed as the designated defensive midfielder. When the Indonesian’s did try to carry or play the ball through midfield she snapped into tackles and presses hard. Wheeler was also an outlet for any lateral or sideways passes, she is a natural for the role and played Indonesia with the same intensity she showed against Brazil and the USA.

Emily van Egmond and Mary Fowler make a fearsome attacking duo in midfield. They created chances for others and scored goals themselves. Both are creative, ambitious playmakers who were given the time and space to damage the opposition. Essential to Australia’s dominance was a willingness to create turnovers from the front and they worked hard to win the ball back when it was lost.

**Above:** Holly McNamara – a promising debut.

Foord and Simon both found the net and Holly McNamara was impressive, although unlucky not to score. For Australia to win this tournament they need more than just Sam Kerr in scoring form. If Foord and Simon are confident in front of goal it makes Australia a much more dangerous proposition for anybody coaching against them.

The experiment with Alanna Kennedy upfront was interesting. She did not score, but she provides an element of chaos. There is little chance Indonesia was prepared for that to happen and it may have been a view into Gustavsson’s other attacking plans.

Sam Kerr did was she always does. Five goals is a spectacular output from the striker. She finished the game as Australia’s all-time leading scorer and had enough chances to miss a penalty and hit the bar with another effort, yet still finished as the game’s top scorer.

This was a game in which Australia played at their best for the full 90 minutes. They were clinical, unrelenting, hard-working, and stylish, sometimes in the same passage of play.

Despite the score, there were no attempts at lairising. No unnecessary freestyle attempts or excessive stepovers. Celebrations were muted and the intensity was maintained.

This was a thoroughly professional performance by a team that has shown the rest of the tournament that they mean business.

Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-1-4-1): Arnold, Carpenter, Kennedy, Catley, Wheeler, Raso, Fowler, van Egmond, Foord, Kerr. Subs used: Nevin, Luik, Yallop, Simon, McNamara.

Scorers: Kerr 9′, 11′ 26′ (pen), 36′, 54′. Foord 14′, Fowler 17′, Raso 24′, 88′. Carpenter 34′, 49′. van Egmond 39′ (pen), 57′, 69′. Yallop 59′, Simon 68′, 71′. Luik 79′.

INDONESIA (4-5-1): Supriyanto, Rumbewas, A.Oktafiani, Riski, Lestari, P.Oktafianti, Nurmalita, Maeisyaroh, Silfianus, Amiatun, Muzdalifah. Subs used: Nurhalimah, Nurrohmah, Viandrisa, Mulysari, Pattinasarany.

Referee: Mahsa Ghorbani (Iran).

Attendance: Behind Closed Doors.

I Wouldn’t Want To Support Any Other Team

Above: It’s time for the Matildas to come together and deliver at the Asia Cup which starts today. Photo: Football Australia.

Kieran Yap previews Australia’s Asia Cup campaign which kicks off against Indonesia tomorrow (20/1/22).

As fans, it is a little bit different before an international tournament. There are nerves, excitement and a slight change in perspective, but there is much to be excited about as the Asian Cup kicks off.

When it comes to the national team, club allegiances give way to the common cause. A loss for our ‘Dub’ team can be tempered by the excellence of a national team prospect.

For Victory fans, it was not fun watching Holly McNamara dismantle their defence in a 5-1 win. But in the context of 2022, imagine if she did that to Indonesia or even Japan.

Nobody likes watching their team be beaten by Sydney FC. They have swept aside all opposition in the first seven rounds, only being temporarily paused by Western Sydney Wanderers in a 0-0 draw.

But we do like watching Cortnee Vine in career-best form and Remy Siemsen scoring regularly. The two Sydney attackers have been in irrepressible form so far and have been rewarded with call-ups to the final squad for India.

**Above:** Cortnee Vine – a picture-perfect season in the A-League Women season for the new Matilda. **Photo:** Football Australia

This feels weird to say as a Victorian and I needed to take a deep breath before typing this but on the eve of a major Matildas tournament… I am glad that Sydney FC has played so well.

Australia was undone in the 2018 tournament by committed and organized defences. Thailand proved difficult to break down in the semi-final and Japan shut down hopes of regaining the title.

The likes of Vine and McNamara have the skill to unlock packed defences, they are both fast, tricky, and unpredictable. You can research what Vine does, but that has not helped any A-League Women defenders stopping what happens when she has the ball.

It is not just the new faces, the build-up to this tournament feels like a risky yet deliberate plan by the new manager. Even in poor team performances in exhibition matches, something useful has been learned each time.

Tony Gustavsson has prepared for the 2022 Asian Cup very differently than any other Australia coach before him.

He has sought out the most difficult opposition to play in warm-up matches. The score-lines have been far from perfect, but they have yielded some good long-term results.

**Above:** Courtney Nevin who has become a solid international footballer over the past few months for the Matildas. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Courtney Nevin was uncovered as a senior international footballer. Over the course of the post-Olympic friendlies, she justified Gustavsson’s faith in her. Her performance in central defence against the USA could be a pivotal moment in her career and Australia’s fortunes.

Kyra Cooney-Cross was revealed to be adept as a deep-lying or defensive midfielder. Her command of the role against Ireland and in the first game against Brazil unlocked new midfield possibilities.

Clare Wheeler immediately impacted any game she was brought into to. Against each opposition, in very different circumstances, she flourished.

Charli Grant was impressive against Brazil, showing some excellent footwork in tight spaces. Against the USA she displayed her trademark explosive pace to race past the defenders and cross perfectly for Sam Kerr.

Grant has the potential to be another option at right-back or left-back. Gustavsson has shown a willingness to use Ellie Carpenter more defensively and when the Lyon defender was missing in the Bronze medal match in Tokyo, it showed.

Grant’s rapid improvement in the post-Olympic friendly matches gives Australia more possibilities and depth in that position.

**Above:** Charli Grant – who has improved at a rapid pace and is worthy of her place in the squad. **Photo:** Kris Goman.

The loss to Ireland and the 3-0 defeat to the USA were hard to watch. But as the Asian Cup squad is announced, it is clear that they were not a waste.

The Asian Cup has been a strange tournament for Aussie fans. The fact that it doubles as a World Cup qualifier has often meant that success is judged on two separate criteria and there literally were prizes for finishing second.

This time, they go to India with one goal in mind, to win the trophy.

The Matildas have come close repeatedly in the history of this cup, but things feel different this time.

The expectations are more defined, the preparation has been more rigorous and the squad feels more flexible and versatile.

It is easy to be nervous before a major tournament. Anything can happen and we have no right to success, but Aussie fans should be optimistic.

**Above:** The Matildas are a team with players with plenty of top-level experience. **Photo:** Football Australia.

The team has had rigorous preparation, has players at some of Europe’s biggest clubs, a World Cup-winning manager, and the best players from the A-League Women.

They have a manager who revels in tournament football and working out the permutations of each match. He has chosen young players who are breaking through and experienced campaigners playing at their peak.

The Matildas have options at left-back and right-back for the first time in years and Caitlin Foord, who missed the 2018 cup is back and playing at a higher level than ever.

Oh, we also have the top striker in the world.

The Matildas kick off on Friday night. Until that first goal goes in, it will be stressful and if a game goes to penalties, it may be unbearable on our health, but Australia goes into this tournament in a strong position to win it.

All we can do as fans now is enjoy the ride.

Adelaide Out To Stop Phoenix Rising

Above: Isabel Hodgson pictured during the press conference ahead of Friday night’s game against Wellington Phoenix. Photo provided to Impetus by: Adelaide United.

Round Eight of the A-League Women season gets underway tomorrow night with Adelaide United hosting Wellington Phoenix at Coopers Stadium. Ben Gilby heard from the Reds’ Isabel Hodgson and Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis ahead of the game (20/1/22).

Adelaide United star Isabel Hodgson will make her 50th appearance for the South Australian club tomorrow night. She reflected on her career and spoke of her pride and excitement in making the milestone.

“When you think that we only play 14 games a season, it’s quite a long time (that I’ve been going). It’s always good to get out and play, getting consistent seasons under your belt and now I’ve got to the 50th appearance.

Being one of the club’s more experienced players, Hodgson highlighted some of the biggest changes that she’s seen at Adelaide United.

“Back when I started, the club wasn’t professional, so that’s a massive change between a professional league and a non-pro one.

“As a club, we’re now looking to make Finals and win the league. Eight years ago we were struggling to be competitive, so that’s the biggest change I’ve seen here.”

Hodgson then turned her attention to Friday’s opponents Wellington Phoenix, who at present are bottom with only a point from their maiden season.

“The thing with playing a lower team on the table is they have nothing to lose so they can go into every game just putting everything out there. We know that their results don’t match with how they have played. Last week they were 2-0 up against Brisbane Roar who are a great team.

“It’s easier going into games as the underdogs. You know you’re not going to make Finals. We’ve been in that place before. We were losing games, but we’d pick up the odd win. I want to make sure we’re not one of those teams that are beaten. Games like this are the ones that we have to absolutely get the three points from especially as we didn’t get anything last week.

“We know it’s a winnable game and we want to go out and put on a show to get the three points.

“We need to put in a 90-minute performance. Last week we played well for 45. We know we dropped off in the second half. When we have a good run of play, we need to make sure that we put goals away. If we can play at our best, we can beat any team.”

**Above:** Gemma Lewis, the Wellington Phoenix head coach who spoke about the “honest conversations” she has had with her side this week. **Photo:** Wellington Phoenix.

Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis says her players were “really gutted” after the loss to the Roar and had a few honest conversations about why it felt worse than a 5-0 defeat.

“Once we addressed that and had a bit of an open conversation about it and then looked to Adelaide, the mood in the camp has been good since. They’re bouncing back quicker than I thought they would have.

“I think as a group we have to find that confidence and belief to know that in those games we can compete and we can still get a result out of it.

“The worst thing that could have happened to us, happened to us and we didn’t even get a single point out of it.

“Now it’s that experience, growth and learning opportunity that hopefully when we’re in it again, we’ve experienced it, it’s not unusual to us, it’s not so scary to us anymore and hopefully they’ll have a lot more belief and confidence to finish off a game.”

The Phoenix have just one point to show for their endeavours at the halfway stage of the regular season, but Lewis doesn’t want her players to be results focussed.

“Not focusing on the result is hard to do but that game (against Brisbane) showed how purposeful it was.

“As much as they haven’t been in that situation where they’ve been 2-0 up and winning before they also started to focus too much on it.

“I think it made them panic. We moved away from our game plan, we started to play ourselves into trouble, we started to play frantically (and) we turned over so much possession. I think it caused us problems.”

Instead, Lewis wants the players to focus on the way they want to play, execute and improve from game to game.

“I think if we do that the outcome of the game should come, but we’re trying not to solely focus on the score, or the win, or the loss, or the draw because from our first half of the season that’s where we’ve struggled in the motivation.”

Gemma Lewis concedes they are still trying to strike the right balance with their aggressive playing style.

“We’re still figuring it out. I’m not going to lie.

“We want to encourage the side to play, but…sometimes we overplay and we get ourselves into trouble.

“Sometimes we’re too calm in the moment when we need to move the ball a little bit quicker or react a little bit more quickly. Sometimes we go too far down the other end and we panic and start to get chaotic.

“The way we defend is with an intensity that can be chaotic…so when we defend with that intensity and that almost chaos it’s then being able to shift into possession of now you have the ball and can settle things down.

“I think that’s why we fade in games because we don’t strike that balance well. We defend at hundred miles an hour and we try and play at a hundred miles an hour. We struggle for an in-between.”

Lewis says they have been preparing “for living in the chaos” as Adelaide have a similar aggressive mindset to the Phoenix and are successful at it.

“They live in chaos, they love it. How they press, their counter-press, their defensive transition, their counter-attacking ability, I find they actually thrive in the chaos so they’re going to want to put us under the pump, press us and force us to turn over possession high.

“We’ve done sessions on trying to figure out how to live within that panic and how to not get in that space of letting them dictate the game.”

Forward Kelli Brown will miss her second successive match for the Nix because of concussion, while centre-back Mackenzie Barry remains in doubt with an ankle injury.

“We don’t know how long Kelli’s going to be out for. She’s still got symptoms so she’s not going to be cleared anytime soon, I don’t think.

“To be completely honest we’re being really stretched at the moment.

“Mack is still very much 50/50 right now and then we’ve also got another two players on limited minutes. We’re getting down to the bones of what we’ve got.”

Ashford Town (Middx): A History Making Season

Above: Ashford Town (Middx) 2021/22. Photo: Ashford Town (Middx).

It’s been an incredible season for Impetus partner club Ashford Town (Middx). Chairman and head coach Will Boye spoke about his team who are top of the tier five London & SE Premier and have also enjoyed a historic FA Cup run (20/1/22).

Ashford Town hit the headlines in the late autumn with a sensational FA Cup win at home to FA Women’s National League Southern Premier side Oxford United. Despite being two divisions below their opponents, Will knew his team had a chance.

“Heading into every game, we are always confident of a result as long as we’re able to effectively apply our game strategy. The players were excited about the game, the spectators were bouncing from the first whistle and our home venue gave us that extra edge.

“Oxford are a great side, inform, playing some really good football and posed a constant threat to us on the pitch. We needed to maintain concentration and take our chances when they arrived and I am delighted that the players were able to execute that. Three well-worked goals and a clean sheet left me delighted with what was easily the performance of the season.

It was not just his team’s performance that pleased the Tangerines’ head coach, it was the vibe in the stands on the day as well.

“It was a result that will live long in the memory for many. The match-day preparation was smooth which saw us witness the biggest attendance The Robert Parker Stadium had experienced for some years.

**Above:** Spectators gathered at the Robert Parker Stadium, home of Ashford Town (Middx). **Photo:** Europlan

“It was an unusually sunny afternoon and everyone arrived in such a jovial mood. Excited for the game, aware of the challenge that lay ahead of us but determined to put Ashford on the map, making people aware of just how strong we are as a squad.

“Everything that transpired on the pitch did not surprise us one bit. We worked very hard in studying Oxford’s threats and nullified that effectively on the pitch. Of course, this included our goalkeeper, Sophie Shults, pulling off a number of outstanding saves too.”

That victory over Oxford United set up another plum home tie in round three when Ashford was paired with the second-highest Championship side that they could have drawn, London City Lionesses.

“We knew that we were in for a tough game. The organization around the game to ensure we were COVID compliant and the opposition we were to welcome appropriately was a mammoth task. We got there in the end and I must praise the coaching staff, secretary, and of course our phenomenal volunteers at the football club who are nothing but supportive.

“There was so much to prepare for around the game it never really felt like we could sit back, soak it all in and enjoy the day and occasion, which was history in the making for this football club. In saying that it was an enjoyable game to be part of and one we’ll remember for a long time.”

Despite going behind to the Championship side, in true Ashford style, the tier five league leaders managed to equalize. Will spoke about all the hard work that aided this.

**Above:** Will Boye – Ashford Town (Middx) Chairman and Head Coach. **Photo:** Ashford Town (Middx).

“The mental strength of this team is a huge asset of ours, which our mental performance coach, Tia Prior, works very hard in developing on a weekly basis. This is so apparent in how we approach games, how we guard against, and just how we recover when faced with adversity.

“We knew we should have been 1-0 up after missing a golden chance a few minutes before going behind. Our goal was a deserved one and certainly sent shockwaves through the opposition, who returned after the break more determined, and arguably more domineering.

“Ultimately, it was a pleasing first-half performance on the field, yet a frustrating one from the dugout as we felt we deserved more.”

Whilst London City Lionesses added more goals in the second half, there was so much to be proud of for Will and his team.

“We are disappointed to have lost the game, we’re winners here at the club, and losing is simply not part of who we are, we don’t know how to lose. We’ve looked back at the game and identified the areas of our game that need improvement and we’re working hard to fix that. But as I say, there’s so much to be proud of here at the club and plenty to be positive about for the future, it’s important we don’t lose sight of that and positively strive to be better every week.”

The community support that the club received as a result of the Cup run saw almost 300 people in the ground for the London City Lionesses tie. With Ashford Town homing in on promotion to the FA Women’s National League, Will outlined how he is hoping that support can be mobilized for league games.

“The hope is to consistently get numbers through the gate so that we can continue to grow as a football club. Hopefully the entertainment we provide on the pitch can support this. We’re not the biggest name in football, so climbing up the football pyramid is the best way in attracting, guarding, and keeping this support.”

With the Cup run now over, 2022 sees focus on continuing the club’s hugely impressive league form. These matches now come with an additional challenge as Ashford’s results prior to the New Year including the Cup run makes Will’s team even more of a “target game” for the opposition.

“We always have been that team everyone targets as the one to beat and that’s down to our success over the years. Of course, we’ve had interest in our players too and that won’t change. What I am delighted about is that players want to be at this football club and continue to play with such passion every week.”

Ashford Town is a club that Will emphasizes “are constantly looking to better ourselves every time we take to the football pitch.”

An example of this is the return of Ruby Linton a player that Will is “delighted to welcome back on a permanent basis “as she will add much-needed firepower to our front line and provide us with lots of quality going forward.”

With the club currently top of the table on goal difference from Dartford, albeit with three games in hand, the forthcoming game between the two sides on 30^th January at the Robert Parker Stadium is looming large. You would not back against the Tangerines on present form.

The official matchday programme from Ashford Town (Middx)’s FA Cup Second Round victory over Oxford United can be read here: https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/files.pitchero.com/clubs/51537/VxXURVqfRvWqEW2lvObu_Matchday%20Programme%20(28.11.21).pdf

Kate Taylor: Maturity Beyond Her Years

Above: Kate Taylor (right) battles against Sydney FC’s Australian international Remy Siemsen earlier this season. Photo: Getty Images, supplied to Impetus by: Wellington Phoenix

Wellington Phoenix’s 18-year-old vice-captain Kate Taylor has been one of her side’s stand-out players in their first-ever A-League Women season. The defender spoke exclusively to Impetus for our #MidweekDub feature about her footballing journey and what life is like as part of New Zealand’s first professional women’s football team (19/1/22).

Kate Taylor is one of the young players to watch in the A-League Women competition this season. Whilst she is exceptionally young and has no previous professional footballing experience, the Kiwi reads the game in a way that a player twice her age would be proud of. She opened our conversation by outlining her footballing journey so far.

“So, I started at my local club in my region which was Nomads United (based in Casebrook, Christchurch). It was definitely a boys’ club or a male-dominated club. That helped me. I started with my sister in the team and my Dad coaching. That changed as both are nowhere near the sport now!

“I stayed there until I was 13, playing in the boys’ comp and I never really played any age group tournaments until a later coach picked me up and that was for an under-14s competition. If that coach hadn’t have done that then I don’t think I’d be where I am today.

“From there I started at the Canterbury United Pride Youth set up and played in some junior international programmes. I spent the last year going up and down to Auckland and playing with boys again, and that’s all helped me to get to where I am now at the Phoenix.”

Being part of the Under-14s national competition was the beginning of a realization for Taylor that football could be something she could pursue long term.

“Up until then, I wasn’t sure that football would be my main sport as I always wanted to play any sport I could. Touch (rugby) was a sport I played a lot of as well as Futsal, Cross Country, and Athletics. Being part of the Under-14’s comp was the point I finally realized that football could be something that could take me further than New Zealand and I could earn money playing.”

**Above:** Kate Taylor (left) in action for Canterbury United Pride. **Photo:** Warwick Taylor Stuff

Taylor was part of a hugely successful Canterbury United Pride team who have won New Zealand’s Women’s National League six times in the past nine years. The teenage defender has no doubts as to why the team has had continued success.

“Ah, that’s down to Gunny (Alana Gunn, head coach). She’s been involved for a number of years now and the core group of girls who have been there for six or seven years. New players have come in and changed the playing style in small ways, but those are the reasons, definitely.”

Whilst the defender’s career is still in its embryonic stages, she has still had to overcome challenges. “Having to juggle football and travelling for it whilst still being at school was hard. I was training with boys as well which made it extra hard. They were a bit younger than me and less mature, so that was tough, but it was football and where I wanted to be, so that helped me.

“I had lots of teachers who helped me through because I wasn’t at school much. Knowing I was working towards something bigger helped me to overcome those things. I was trying to push for something in football, so that helped to fix itself.”

With school now over and continuing developments in her game, once Wellington Phoenix’s entry into the A-League Women was announced, it wasn’t long before they came knocking on Taylor’s door. She explained to us how it happened.

**Above:** Kate Taylor (left) tussels with Newcastle Jets’ Tara Andrews in early December. **Photo:** Ashley Feder/Getty Images supplied to *Impetus* by: Wellington Phoenix.

“At the start of 2021, I was in touch a lot with Gemma (Lewis – now Phoenix head coach) and Nat (Lawrence assistant) through the U20s and U17 National Team and the national team’s pre-Olympic camp. It helped me to get to know them better. That is a big reason why I am here.”

Phoenix’s late entry into the competition meant that players were arriving in small numbers throughout the short pre-season period that the club had. Taylor reflected on that situation and admitted that it was hard.

“When we first got together in Wellington, we had up to 12 players. Not many, and that was tough. It was enjoyable as we were doing it together, but hard. When we came over to Australia we were a little bit nervous about meeting the Australian players in our squad for the first time, but it was fine. It was really helpful that all the Aussies knew each other already before they joined us. We all came together really nicely. It just felt normal in the end.

“There was definitely a difference between how Aussies play and how Kiwis play. They are quite transitional in their play and are getting used to how Gemma and Nat want us to play. The Aussies are physical, they like to keep the ball. I think you can see that we play a lot differently to the other teams in the competition and that’s why.”

There were some raised eyebrows when Gemma Lewis announced the 18-year-old as Wellington’s inaugural vice-captain, but her assured and commanding displays in the opening weeks of the campaign marked Taylor out as a player who is wise beyond her years.

“I don’t model my game on other players. I like to watch football but I don’t change my game or do things differently just because I see other players doing it. I haven’t really done too much so far from a vice-captain’s perspective so far. There’s just been a focus on the opening games of the season, which have been hard enough in themselves. I think it will be a fun role. At the same time, extra responsibility comes with added stress and I want to try and relieve that. I’m looking at how I can help Lily (Alfeld – captain), the coaches, and any players that need it.

**Above:** Kate Taylor (right) battles against Brisbane Roar’s Larissa Crummer last weekend. **Photo:** Wellington Phoenix.

As our conversation moved towards its conclusion, the Phoenix defender outlined her personal aims for the season. “Consistency is a big one for me. It’s hard to play the same and hit the same heights every week, so I want to try and bring that across the season.

“I want to improve on the small, little things that I have identified. It’s hard in a team, especially one that is new to improve on those sorts of things. Oh, I want to win some games!”

Taylor also highlighted what, for her, a successful maiden season for Wellington Phoenix would look like: “For us to score more goals, whether they are scrappy or a nicely constructed goals. To get a couple of wins or upsets to build confidence. We’re new and trying to adapt to everything. It’s all an unknown for us still.”

With the 18-year-old in such good form at the start of her A-League Women adventure, international recognition is something that cannot be too far away.

“Playing for the Football Ferns is something I’ve dreamed of since I was young, so I’m pushing for that now and I’d love to go on a tour or to the World Cup or Olympics. But also the U20s, and the U20s Women’s World Cup in August 2022 is getting close now, and I’d love to be part of that.

“I definitely think that playing in the A-League Women with Phoenix puts me in a good place for international recognition. I know that where I am now puts me in the best possible place for me and anyone else who wants to aim higher.”