“Stay Humble And Realise There Is A Lot Of Work To Do”

Impetus’ Kris Goman was our representative at Comm Bank Stadium for Australia’s first game on home soil since early 2020. She sums up the evening in words and pictures plus brings us all the news from the post-match press conferences.

Above: Clare Polkinghorne after scoring the Matildas’ opening goal. Photo: Kris Goman

The last time I saw the Matildas play at Commbank Stadium (then Bankwest Stadium) was in March 2020. It was the match against China that sent the Matildas to the top of the table in the Olympic qualifiers. The match that was originally supposed to be played in Wuhan was moved to Sydney because there was a virus running rampant. It was just weeks before the world shut down and matches were played in empty stadiums globally. It felt lucky that all the Olympic qualifiers were moved to Sydney and we got to witness games that should have been played in China.

It feels like it’s come full circle now. We’re moving to a post-Covid phase. Most people in Australia are now vaccinated, lockdown restrictions are easing and the Matildas are back in town. But post-Covid is not the same as pre-Covid and this was evident at this match. All spectators had to be fully vaccinated and vaccination certificates were examined to gain entry.

Above: Ellie Carpenter waves to the crowd. Photo: Kris Goman.

More interestingly, the players were subject to strict quarantine bubble conditions that meant they didn’t have to quarantine for 14 days. It was the only way to get them back to their clubs within the international break timeframe but came with strict conditions. It essentially means they are restricted to their hotel, their training grounds, and the match stadium and can’t interact with any locals, including their families.

Because the Australian borders have been closed since the pandemic began, all the overseas-based Matildas haven’t been home for over 18 months and haven’t seen their families in that time. And this match would be the first time for many that they could actually see their families. But they had to stay over two metres away and could not touch them. This resulted in tears at the end of the match as players waved to their families in the crowd.

Above: Sam Kerr spots a familiar face in the crowd on her return to Australian soil. Photo: Kris Goman

I won’t go into any detail about the match, as that’s already well documented, other than to say Australia beat Brazil 3-1, had the bulk of possession, celebrated Alanna Kennedy’s 100th match, and debuted Remy Siemsen and Bryleeh Henry.

One thing of note though was the crowd and in particular the Brazilian supporters. They brought the passion, they brought the songs and they brought their voices. Although they made up probably only about 10% of the crowd, they made about 70% of the noise. When Adriana scored and Marta came on, it was as loud as when Sam Kerr was introduced and when Claire Polkinghorne scored the first goal. It made the night electric.

But back to the Covid restrictions and the final thing it impacted was the post-game press conference.  Because the players weren’t allowed near the media, it was held via zoom. Not that big a deal but the logistics of attending immediately after the match made it interesting. Tracey Holmes was obviously in the car park with the Brazilians who were all honking their horns. After finding a quiet spot in the stadium to listen, I was asked to move outside. Thankfully the crowds were gone by this time but tuning in from a bench outside the stadium wasn’t ideal.

Above: Caitlin Foord in the post-game press conference. Photo: Kris Goman.

Unlike normal zoom meetings, the players and coaches couldn’t see those posing the questions. Caitlin Foord was up first. Sam Lewis asked if the difficult couple of weeks and external pressure affected their performance. Foord said she felt no pressure and they just wanted to enjoy the home fans and being on home soil again. Tracey Holmes asked what changes or confidence Gustavsson has brought to the team. She said he’s got a lot of intelligence and he’s brought out the best of each player’s ability and wants the team to be able to express themselves and do what they do best. She went on to comment on Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross and said it was exciting to watch them grow and become a big part of the team. When asked the most difficult aspect of the last couple of weeks, she replied it has been hardest to be here and not see their families. They’ve been able to block out outside noise.  There was a question about building to the World Cup. The year missed to Covid meant they lost a year with Tony but she feels they have plenty of time to grow and learn and it’s exciting. Did the team put healthy pressure on each other to perform? Their goals for the matches were to keep a clean sheet and win. They weren’t able to stop one goal from getting past but were excited by winning. They now want two wins and another good performance and a clean sheet.

Above: Pia Sundhage faces the media after the game. Photo: Kris Goman.

Pia Sundhage was up next and spoke about her relationship with Tony when they were coaching the USWNT together and how she gave him his first break and how it was good to see him here being successful. She said they were friends off the field but business on the field.

Above: Tamires post match. Photo: Kris Goman

I asked Brazilian captain, Tamires whether the small but very vocal Brazilian fans impacted their game. She said the support was amazing and they could hear the songs of the local Brazilian clubs being sung. She was very thankful for the support and said it was incredible.

Above: Tony Gustavsson speaks to the media in detail after the game. Photo: Kris Goman.

Tony Gustavsson was the last to be interviewed and was thoughtful and considered in all his answers. You almost don’t need to ask a leading question with Tony because he’ll elaborate anyway which is refreshing.

Speaking about his personal view on the experience of his first game in charge on Australian soil, Gustavsson said: “I could get used to this! It was a phenomenal atmosphere and the way the players played. I thank them for giving me a win for my first time on Australian soil. It was a special moment for me.”

I asked Gustavsson about how there’s been some criticism of the defence and how this squad is heavy on defenders and how the Matildas coach felt things looked today: “We had a different formation today and I said before that I want to be flexible and fluid in our formation. Identity doesn’t sit in formation, it sits in what you do. What impressed me tonight was that we had limited time to prepare with players arriving on different days. For the players to absorb everything we did double sessions and some walk-throughs. For the players to execute that game plan in such a short time was impressive.

Above: Charli Grant applauds the crowd post-match. Photo: Kris Goman

“We did look into improving our defence for the game, but not at the expense of our attacking mindset. I do think we got dispossessed in bad areas at times in the game and we could have coughed up a few goals. We were lucky, to be honest. We still have things to clean up, it was far from perfect. It’s a step in the right direction, but we still have work to do.”

He went on to talk further about the qualities of the players in the camp: “The players’ ability to take in information and execute game plans is enormous. I was disappointed in our physicality against Ireland. Tonight, the players showed that they wanted it more than Brazil. It helped that the fans carried us forward. We spoke beforehand about feeding off the energy that the crowd creates and playing the game with them. Whether that’s making a tackle and you get a response from the crowd – you bring the energy that creates into your body.

“The teams that want to compete at the highest level need to get used to performing under pressure and thriving under it – seeing pressure as a privilege is important. Everyone has been phenomenal. The prep work and the players’ response was impressive.”

Above: Kyra Cooney-Cross, who had a superb night. Photo: Kris Goman

Still in her embryonic days as an international, Kyra Cooney-Cross produced her finest performance in a Matildas shirt in the match, with some outstanding vision shown in passes from midfield out to the flanks. The Swede was impressed and highlighted the wider benefits to the team of having the Melbourne Victory teenager playing in the number six role.

“I need to build a playing style around the qualities of the team and Kyra has shown time after time in the training environment that she can cope with pressure, but also something she hasn’t got enough credit for and that’s her defensive presses. We tried her (at six) in the Ireland game and she was one of our best players. It’s also another way of getting EvE (Emily van Egmond) higher up the park. She is a natural eight or ten but has played a lot at six. She is a game-changer. She had one assist and one goal tonight. It shows when she plays higher up the park she can give us points as well.

Above: Alanna Kennedy in action on her hundredth cap. Photo: Kris Goman

Asked about Alanna Kennedy’s performance for her hundredth cap, Gustavsson cautioned against focusing too much on her loss of possession which led to Brazil’s goal. “I think she played more confident tonight than against Ireland. She showed that she can embrace that pressure. She took a big step in the right direction tonight.”

Gustavsson ended the conference by cautioning about getting too carried away with the result.

“We played a Brazil team who are rebuilding right now. They had a lot of debutants and a completely new team with Marta and Debinha on the bench. We need to balance talk about this performance. Are there things I’m happy with? Yes. But we need to stay humble and realise that we have a lot of work to do.”

Above: Mary Fowler – another superb performance. Photo: Kris Goman

Dons Delight As History Is Made

AFC Wimbledon 7-1 Walton Casuals

Words and Pictures By Ben Gilby

AFC Wimbledon ran out comfortable winners against a hard working Walton Casuals side in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup Third Qualifying Round tie.

It was a history making afternoon as the Dons Women played their first match at the new Plough Lane stadium (see photo at top of page by Ben Gilby) in front of a vocal crowd of over 1,500.

Above: The two sides line up prior to kick-off. Walton Casuals on the left, AFC Wimbledon on the right. Photo: Ben Gilby

AFC Wimbledon played their confident passing style from the start, aided by the outstanding surface. Within two minutes they were ahead thanks to a goal from Kelly Highman.

The South London side were dominant, but Casuals were defending with a high line which caught the hosts offside at regular intervals. With seventeen minutes played, Megan Stow played in Ashlee Hincks, who had a hugely influential afternoon, but the finish went over the bar.

The chances continued to come three minutes from the break:

Just five minutes later though, Wimbledon doubled their lead. Rebecca Carter showed searing pace to break through the midfield before advancing into the area to confidently slot home.

With a little over half hour on the clock, Dons went 3-0 up when referee Lucy Clark saw a handball in the box, and Hincks stepped up to smash the spot kick home.

Above: AFC Wimbledon goalkeeper Lauren Allen makes a save. Photo: Ben Gilby

Walton Casuals finished the half with a flurry of opportunities. First, with 35 minutes gone when Brooke Garcia’s thumping drive went narrowly over, and then just before the break Jodie Barker got a goal back for the Surrey side.

The second half took a while to get into its groove. Rosie Russell was looking impressive for the Dons down the right. Emily Oliver had the first real chance of the second 45 when her effort went narrowly wide of the far post.

Walton had a chance when a free kick went narrowly wide:

The game was effectively over as a contest on 64 minutes when Stow crashed home the hosts’ fourth.

Above: AFC Wimbledon look to advance. Photo: Ben Gilby

Carter secured her brace on 71 minutes for 5-1 with Hincks then getting her second with a wonderful finish seven minutes later.

Hincks completed her hat-trick with five minutes left from close range after Walton sub keeper Chloe Donellan parried an effort into her path.

The final whistle was greeted by delight from the massed crowd who stayed around for some time after the final whistle to acclaim the Dons.

Matildas v Brazil: Post Match Reaction

Ben Gilby heard from Caitlin Foord, Alanna Kennedy and Clare Polkinghorne plus debutants Bryleeh Henry and Remy Siemsen.

Above: The Australia team that started against Brazil yesterday in Parramatta. Photo: Football Australia.

Western Sydney Wanderers’ Bryleeh Henry, who came on for her debut in her home region was extremely emotional to be wearing the Matildas shirt.

“I’m going to cry! I don’t think it’s sunk in yet, it’s a dream come true. It means the world and to do it in front of my family is just an absolute honour. I was hoping (to get on the pitch) but wasn’t expecting it at all. Mel (Andreatta) called me over and started talking about set-pieces and my mind started spinning! I needed to calm down and play my football. I was happy with my form.”

Alanna Kennedy made her hundredth appearance in the game and spoke of her pride.

Above: Then and now – Alanna Kennedy made her hundredth appearance for Australia last night. Photo: Football Australia.

“It meant so much to finally be back and to have my hundredth cap in front of home fans. I’m happy with than and proud of the girls performance. My family are such a big part of me getting to a hundred appearances. I’ve just seen them for the first time in 15 months. I love them to pieces.”

Talking about the physicality of the match, she said: “I’ve had enough knocks in my career to recover from those. It’s the type of game you always get against Brazil and we always show up for that.”

Caitlin Foord spoke in detail after the game. “I don’t think there was pressure (on us), I just wanted to go into the game and enjoy it, being on home soil with home fans. That’s what got us through today. The buzz from the fans and the turn out.

Above: The Matildas come together to celebrate. Photo: Football Australia.

“Our rotation in midfield was good. We have a good understanding in order to move and make space. It was working.”

She outlined the influence that Tony Gustavsson has brought to the team since coming in as head coach. “He’s brought his knowledge. He is very intelligent, you can see that and we’ve all learned so much from him already. The most important thing is that he’s brought out the best of everyone’s ability. How we play is to bring out the best of every single player. He wants us all to express ourselves and do what we do best – giving us the freedom to play.”

Above: Young star Mary Fowler, who impressed Caitlin Foord. Photo: Football Australia.

The Arsenal star spoke glowingly about the performances and potential of teenagers Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross.

“It’s exciting to see them grow the last couple of years to where they are now. They have deserved what they have done. Mary came out big today and scored – that’s what she can do, and Kyra getting on the ball and dictating. We keep encouraging them. We want them to be comfortable on the ball and express themselves. We are encouraging them a lot.”

Asked about how team have progressed since the 2019 World Cup, Foord was positive. “We’ve missed a year due to Covid and so not long with Tony. We have so much time together to grow and that’s exciting.”

Foord also highlighted the mixed emotions about finally being back on Australian soil after 20 months away. “The hardest thing is not being able to see our families (still). It’s been so long for all of us, so we just wanted to come here and put on a great show. We want to block out the outside noise as we’re here for this team and that’s what we continue to do. We didn’t want to go away with a loss. We also wanted a clean sheet, we didn’t get that. We’re disappointed that we conceded. We want two wins (from these games with Brazil)”.

Clare Polkinghorne, whose goal put Australia ahead spoke of her joy about playing in front of a home crowd again: “It was a great turn out, we had amazing support. To put on a performance like that and score three goals is really pleasing.

Above: Kyah Simon and Sam Kerr celebrate. Photo: Football Australia

“For my goal, it all happened so quickly. It came from a set piece that we’ve been working on. Sam (Kerr) did well to win the first ball and I’m there to pick up the second ball and luckily it went in.”

“Tuesday’s game will be another tough contest. We’ll recover properly and look at the video of things we need to improve and go again.”

Above: Debutants Remy Siemsen (left) and Bryleeh Henry. Photo: Football Australia.

Another debutant was Sydney FC’s Remy Siemsen. She spoke emotionally after the game about the feeling of winning her first cap.

“I’ve been dreaming of this moment. I’m overwhelmed. It’s a complete dream come true for me. You can tell by my emotions how much this means to me. To do it in front of friends and family in my home town is so special.

“I consider myself so privileged to don the green and gold alongside some of the best players in the world. It will be a night I remember forever.

“I didn’t know I was coming on. It was a nice surprise! I quickly had to absorb all the information before coming on. I wanted to make an impact in some way or form. The girls were so encouraging and made me so welcome. They helped me out!”

Above: Matildas players show their joy after the match. Photo: Football Australia

Impetus’ Kris Goman participated in the post match press conference with Tony Gustavsson – her take on what was said will be on the site later today.

Gustavsson Outlines Aims For Brazil Games

Impetus editor Ben Gilby listened to Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson’s press conference today prior to the Matildas return to home soil for the first time since early 2020 when they take on Brazil in Parramatta tomorrow. Picture of Matildas training at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium provided to Impetus by Football Australia.

Gustavsson opened the press conference by addressing the allegations made by Lisa De Vanna about abuse and bullying within the Matildas set up in the past.

“I want to show my respect to everyone who is at the centre of all of this. I want to be clear that the well-being of the players and the staff in the team is the number one priority for us. We need to ensure we create a safe and secure environment.

“We need to meet the inquiry head on and make sure we get one day better on and off the field.”

“I was shocked (by the allegations made by Lisa De Vanna). There were a lot of emotions going through me. I felt that we must support the people who are at the centre of this.

“My experience of the team culture has been nothing but positive, however that does not mean I am belittling what everyone has said. I am the proudest and happiest man in international football to be coach of the Matildas. I’m like a kid before Christmas.

“The chemistry, family feeling that exists between the players and staff is wonderful.

Above: The Matildas gather during training in Western Sydney this week. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

“That doesn’t mean we stop here – we don’t stop getting one day better.”

Gustavsson then talked about the specific factors that influenced the early days of the training camp this time round.

“This camp was a little bit different as the players arrived on different days. We need to thank the New South Wales government to allow this happen. The first few days of the camp were about recovery from jet lag and getting the players up and running. Thursday was the first day we could go with high intensity.

“Today (Friday), we nailed down the game plan. It is a short lead-in time to get sorted. We went to the stadium to have a walk through last night. What a beautiful stadium.

“It’s been a privilege to come to Australia for the first time. The team who have a head coach who is going to peak with excitement before game day!

“I’m extremely excited to be playing Brazil! Who doesn’t remember the Miracle of Montpellier? There are so many things to be excited about – Alanna Kennedy playing her 100th game, being back in Australia for the first time in 600 days and playing Brazil, one of our greatest rivals.”

The Matildas head coach then drew the gathered media a diagram showing pressures coming to a high performance environment from both inside and outside the camp. In the middle of the circular diagram is what Gustavsson termed “The fresh air zone which is very small. If we want to be part of the team winning the World Cup in 2023 that’s what we need to get used to.

Above: Ellie Carpenter pictured in training this week. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.

“We have to begin to get used to this and, from the Ireland loss, we are using this to get used to that pressure.”

The Swede used the analogy that at the moment the Matildas are going through “growing pains”. He admitted that they are not where they want to be at the moment, but that’s not a disaster. They are in the growth process at the present time.”

“The players cannot wait to get out onto the field. They haven’t been in Australia for over 600 days. I can feel their excitement and determination to get out on the pitch in front of fans.”

“If I was a coach 15 years ago, I would have said we need to park the bus and can’t keep conceding goals, and build towards Sam (Kerr) getting a goal for a 1-0 win. I want us to have an attacking mind-set. Our challenge now is to say ‘can we stay true to how we are, but can we improve defending?’

“We played an Ireland team who wanted it more. We might have mentally relaxed. Maybe it was a bit like a pre-season camp. I put a lot of emphasis on us celebrating Sam’s hundredth cap and we went north all the time because the players wanted to give Sam that goal so much, so we didn’t play the way we wanted to.

Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson. Photo supplied to Impetus by:Football Australia.

“We didn’t train defending set pieces due to limited time and we conceded three goals from set plays, so that’s on me. Can we fix it? Is it an easy fix? Yes.

“When I look at the game again and the statistics, statistically it is the game we dominated the most since I came in as coach, but some easy goals from set plays and lack of quality in the final third hurt us and it has to improve against Brazil.”

“You are definitely going to see tomorrow (against Brazil) that we will be aggressive and you will see space. We need to be a better job at stopping the opponents. We need to read it better. We had sub group meetings with the players today about how we can do it better.

“We have conceded a lot of goals, but you blame me for that, not the players. The Ireland game, now the Brazil games are to prepare for the Asia Cup. We want to win every game we play, but I want to put the team through what they need to prepare to be successful at the Asia Cup. I agree we need to be better defensively, but not to the extent of our game plan.”

Above: Caitlin Foord in training this week. Photo provided to Impetus by: Football Australia

Also talking to the media in the build up to the game was Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord.

This camp marks the first time Foord has been home in almost two years. 

“It feels nice to be back on Australian soil.  For me personally it has been almost 19 months since my last game here,” Foord said.

“I can’t even explain how nice it was to see Australia flying in.  It was just a crazy feeling after being [away for] so long.”

The match sees not just the return of the Matildas to Australia, but also the return of fans to international sports events in NSW.  The 26-year-old is excited at the prospect of having vocal home support again. 

“It’s huge to play here in front of home fans. It’s a little bit more exciting this time than the others to have everyone back, and I think it will be just as exciting for fans as well.  There is going to be a big buzz around the game.”

Cork City Women: Building For A Bright Future

Paul Farrell, the first team manager of Cork City WFC spoke to Impetus editor Ben Gilby about the club’s history, the current campaign, and their hopes for the future.

Photo: Cork City celebrate in the FAI WNL this season. Photo: Salem Photos.

Cork City’s women’s team has been active now for about 11 years. Paul details the history behind the club.

“Originally, the women’s club was out on its own, but gradually it came under the Cork City FC banner in 2018, just after we won the 2017 Cup, during which time we were partly under the club, Now we’re fully one club in a number of aspects including marketing, budgeting and jerseys. 

“We started off with a senior team, then we developed a junior and senior academy. Since then, we developed an Under 17 WNL team, an Under 19 WNL team, and obviously the main WNL team. Every year, the women’s side of the club grows with the number of girls in our squads.”

With light beginning to emerge from the end of the Coronavirus tunnel, Paul highlighted the impact that it has had on the club.

“In lockdown, it was mostly zoom training, with our strength and conditioning coaches, physios, and analysis staff giving the players plans to stick to throughout lockdown. When we returned to play, it was great but obviously difficult as there are still a lot of protocols to be followed, such as no access to dressing rooms, and meetings limited to 15 minutes. It’s difficult but we have to deal with it and move on. “On the flip side, it was probably good for the girls, as they’re now closer than ever, seeing as training was the only thing they were doing throughout lockdown.”

Photo: Cork City Head Coach Paul Farrell. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile via Cork City FC.

As with any other club, there are challenges off the pitch apart from covid. Cork City’s are similar to many of their FAI WNL rivals.

It’s difficult to get money in through sponsorship. The marketing and commercial staff at Cork City have been superb for that, but that’s something that’s always difficult for a WNL club,” said Paul.

“Another challenge that we face is that because we are always growing, that naturally creates more work and more things need to be done and looked after. It sometimes becomes difficult trying to get as many volunteers as we need but again the club has been fantastic here and the volunteers are working really hard but you could always do with more volunteers.”

With the FAI WNL now entering its last final weeks, Paul highlighted how things have gone.

“This season has gone as we had planned, we’d obviously hoped to be further up the table, but with a number of players departing the club early in the season and a number of players being lost to injury, there’s been a big turnover in the squad. We’ve also lost a number of players mid-season to scholarships in the USA. That has made things difficult for us.

“Of the 11 that started the cup final last year, four of them are still here. That’s a massive turnover in players and in quality. The girls that have come in are doing really well, and the underage girls coming through are developing and now need to get experience in the senior setup. Our aim for the rest of the season is to continue developing those players, get some good performances under our belt each week and get as high up the table as we can. We need to build for next season now.”

With this being the first season that Impetus has covered the FAI WNL, Paul was keen to share some background about the competition.

Above: Cork City players in the huddle. Photo: Salem Photos.

“The standard in the league has always been really good, but it has also definitely improved over the last number of years. All the clubs in the league are now looking beyond local level. There are a number of players in the senior international squad currently playing in the league, and many more of the international players played in the league in the past, so the quality has always been there.

“It’s a nine-team league at the moment, you’ve got a handful of Dublin clubs and then a few spread out across the country like Galway, Athlone, Treaty, Wexford, and ourselves. The league is developing across the country and we know that there is going to be more clubs getting involved over the next couple of years. That’s also going to raise the standard and make it more professional.

“There has also been huge developments off the pitch, in terms of promotion and marketing for the league. Between social media coverage and media in general, it has improved tenfold over the last number of years. The streaming service that LOITV provides shows all of the WNL games for free, showcasing the league more to the public and that has definitely increased the profile of the women’s game in Ireland.”

As Paul touched on earlier, Cork City is more than just about their senior FAI WNL club. There is a clear pathway for girls within the province of Munster to develop with the club.

“Girls from the age of ten can come into our underage academy, where they can progress the whole way up to our U17 WNL team, U19 WNL team, and also the senior setup. We’ve got a great relationship with all the other clubs in Cork. We have done coaching sessions with many clubs across the Munster region – in Kerry, Waterford, and Tipperary, so we’ve got great links with clubs across Munster as well. We’d like to build on that to ensure that there is a pathway for girls to come right through with Cork City and play at the highest level in Ireland.

“We’ve currently got over 40 players registered across our U17 & U19 National league squads, and we have 24 registered to our senior team. A few of those are still eligible to play for our U19 side as well, so there’s an overlap there.

“I can only see that number growing in the coming years, with possibly an U15 team introduced to a National League setup.” 

Above: Action from Cork City’s game against Bohemians. Photo: Stephen Burke.

Cork City, like all clubs, rely on volunteers to keep functioning. Paul outlined the roles and influence that their own volunteers have.

“There’s a long list of unsung heroes at our club, but I won’t go into too much detail, because I would probably end up forgetting to mention someone!

“The women’s committee has been superb to us, they ran the club before we went in under Cork City, and have continued to do great work for the women’s section. The board and the staff at Cork City have also been a huge help to us, we wouldn’t be where we are today without them. All of the volunteers that we have, have also put in a tireless amount of work. All of our coaching staff, from the senior setup to the academy, are all volunteers, and they dedicate so much time from their week and weekend and put in so much work to create that atmosphere and environment to help the players progress to that elite level of football.

Paul also highlighted the ever-increasing growth in player development across Ireland.

“The underage teams are training more, they’ve been putting in more time and are better educated, so they’re coming through the ranks as better players, which raises the standard in the underage leagues but also at senior level when they filter through to the league.

“This has a knock-on effect as well with the international team – look at our own Eabha O’Mahony, who has recently gone on a scholarship to Boston College. She has been in the international senior setup since she was 16 and has got a number of caps for them. It shows that there are a large number of girls coming through the underage ranks due to the better structures in place, and better quality and more qualified coaches in place which again raises the standards all around. That is coming into the WNL as well – all coaches in the league need to have a minimum of an A Licence. 

“I do of course think there’s still more room for development for the women’s game on and off the pitch. We moved to the men’s club’s stadium, Turner’s Cross this year, which has been a huge step forward for us, but all teams in the league should be playing at the best available stadiums, the standard should be kept at those levels.

Photo: Cork City pictured scoring against Treaty United this season. Photo: Salem Photos.

“In terms of our own club, anything that the boys’ or men’s sides get, the girls get as well. Everyone at Cork City is on an equal footing and has the same opportunities.

We closed our conversation by looking ahead to the future – it is one that Paul is hugely excited about.

“I think there will be a lot more changes in the next five years. The women’s game has developed rapidly and that is only going to continue. Higher crowds at games, hopefully funding will increase –  maybe expenses for the girls or a bit of money per game.

“Hopefully the coverage and credit that the women’s game gets online will continue, and the promotion of the women’s game keeps getting better. It would be great if we get to see further expansion in the league, with more teams joining and maybe even adding a second division.

“For our own club, it’s about making sure that we continue to compete at the highest level that we can. We want to compete at the top. We’ll continue to develop our underage teams, and develop good players and role models both on and off the pitch.

“Over the next five years, I can see the women’s side of Cork City just increasing in size and improving again, helping us to lead at the top. If the players that come through aren’t ready to make the step to senior or Cork City, they can go back to the local league in Cork, which will help raise the standard of those leagues, in turn creating better quality players and improving the overall standard of women’s football in Cork.”

First Scottish Players of the Month Crowned

Above: Hibernian’s Colette Cavanagh with the SWPL 1 Player of the Month Award. Photo supplied to Impetus by Scottish Women’s Football.

Colette Cavanagh of Hibernian has been voted as the winner of the SWPL 1 Player of the Month for September 2021 while Rachel Todd of Dundee United is the winner of the SWPL 2 award.

It’s the first player of the month awards of the new season and it’s the first time that there is separate winners for both SWPL 1 and SWPL 2.

This is the second time that Cavanagh has won a Player of the Month award, last winning for Celtic Women back in May 2018. She becomes the first SWPL player to win the award for two different clubs.

In the month of September, Hibernian won three out of four games including a historic victory over Edinburgh rivals, Heart of Midlothian, in front of a domestic record crowd at Easter Road.

Cavanagh, playing a more attacking role so far this season, scored two goals in September in combination with her high work-rate and determination. Her abilities were displayed most clearly when she won the ball back before a wonder strike against Celtic in a narrow 2-1 loss.

Speaking from Easter Road, Cavanagh said: “I’m thrilled to win this award for September. I feel like I’ve started the season strongly and there is great feeling within the team. I certainly believe I’m playing some of the best football of my career.

“It’s nice to be recognised again for my performances in the SWPL having won the award a few years ago now. I’m here for success with Hibernian though, so winning games is the most important thing for me as a player.”

Above: Dundee United’s Rachel Todd with the SWPL 2 Player of the Month Trophy. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Scottish Women’s Football.

In SWPL 2 Dundee United’s Rachel Todd was voted as Player of the Month as her side went undefeated, winning three and drawing one.

The former St Johnstone midfielder has adapted quickly to life at the club, playing every minute in September. She also played a pivotal role in their 3-1 win over Queen’s Park, scoring their opening two goals.

Speaking from Dundee United WFC training, Todd said: “It’s a huge honour to win this award. Moving to a new team can present challenges but I’m delighted with how things are going. I feel this award is recognition of the hard work that both the club and I have put in so far this season.

“Our aim is to get promotion to SWPL 1 this season and many have listed us title favourites. With the squad we have and the support of the club, we’re confident we can achieve success. For us as players though, it’s about taking every game as it comes and ensuring we pick up maximum points.”

Aileen Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Women’s Football, said: “I’d like to congratulate both Colette (Cavanagh) and Rachel (Todd) on winning the first Player of the Month awards for the 2021/22 season and say well done to all nominees.

“Both SWPL 1 and SWPL 2 have been highly entertaining and it’s shaping up to be, yet again, the most competitive season we’ve ever had within the women’s game. These awards are testament to the hard work and dedication of the players involved.

“I’m also delighted that Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) will recognise both an SWPL 1 and SWPL 2 Player of the Month going forward. We feel it’s a positive development for the players, coaches, fans, and leagues for the 2021/22 season and beyond.

Nominated for the SWPL 1 award was Charlie Wellings (Celtic Women) and Eilidh Shore (Aberdeen Women) while Lucy Ronald (Glasgow Women) and Samantha Duncan (Boroughmuir Thistle) were nominated for the SWPL 2 award.

News From Northern Ireland

The Irish FA provide us with all the news from the national squad selection for forthcoming games with England and Austria, plus all the news from the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup Final.

Above: Northern Ireland squad Photo: via Irish FA

Northern Ireland senior women’s team manager Kenny Shiels has made a couple of changes to his squad for this month’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualifiers against England and Austria.

Everton Women striker Simone Magill returns to the fold after being absent for the impressive victories against Luxembourg and Latvia in September due to injury.

And midfielder Joely Andrews is also back after impressing during Glentoran Women’s title run-in. She was not included in the panel last month.

Missing out this time are Cliftonville Ladies forward Caitlin McGuinness and Glentoran Women striker Danielle Maxwell. 

Young Cliftonville Ladies defender Toni-Leigh Finnegan is not available due to injury, while still recovering from long term injuries are Rangers Women midfielder Megan Bell and Linfield Ladies pair Ashley Hutton and Abbie Magee.

England and Austria, the first and second seeds in European Qualifying Group D respectively, will be an altogether different proposition than last month’s opponents. 

The Northern Ireland senior women’s team are set to play at Wembley Stadium for the first time on Saturday 23 October. The game against England kicks off in London at 5.15pm.

And then it’s back home for a qualifier against Austria on Tuesday 26 October (7pm start).

England, currently ranked 8th in the world, began their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualification campaign with emphatic wins over North Macedonia at home (8-0) and Luxembourg away (10-0) in September.

Above: Northern Ireland boss Kenny Shiels selected his squad for games against England and Austria. Photo via: Irish FA

Austria, who are 21st in the latest FIFA Coca-Cola global rankings, defeated Latvia 8-1 away and North Macedonia 6-0 at home. 

Northern Ireland began their quest for a place at the Women’s World Cup in 2023 – it is being hosted by Australia and New Zealand – with a 4-0 win over Luxembourg in Larne followed by a 4-0 victory over Latvia in Belfast last month.

Shiels has gone with his usual blend of youth and experience in his 23-strong panel for this month’s tough assignments.

His squad features seven Glentoran Women players who are fresh from securing the NIFL Danske Bank Women’s Premiership title and the Toalsbet.com County Antrim Women’s Challenge Cup. 

And all seven will be aiming to help their club secure a treble when they take on Crusaders Strikers in the Electric Ireland-sponsored Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup Final at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park tomorrow (15 October, 7.45pm kick-off). 

Goalkeepers – Jackie Burns (Lee University/Glentoran Women), Becky Flaherty (Huddersfield Town Women), Maddy Harvey-Clifford (Crusaders Strikers).

Defenders – Julie Nelson (Crusaders Strikers), Rebecca McKenna (Lewes Women), Rebecca Holloway (Birmingham City Women), Laura Rafferty (Southampton Women), Kelsie Burrows (Cliftonville Ladies), Demi Vance (Rangers Women).

Midfielders – Marissa Callaghan and Louise McDaniel (both Cliftonville Ladies), Nadene Caldwell, Chloe McCarron, Caragh Hamilton and Joely Andrews (all Glentoran Women), Rachel Furness (Liverpool Women), Sarah McFadden (Durham Women), Ciara Watling (Southampton Women).

Forwards – Kerry Beattie and Lauren Wade (both Glentoran Women), Simone Magill (Everton Women), Kirsty McGuinness (Cliftonville Ladies), Emily Wilson (Crusaders Strikers).

Glentoran Wrap Up Treble

Above: Glentoran lift the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup. Photo via: Irish FA

Glentoran Women completed the treble at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park.

The league champions deservedly lifted the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup sponsored by Electric Ireland after defeating Crusaders Strikers 2-0 thanks to goals from player of the match Joely Andrews and Lauren Wade.

The Glens, with the NIFL Danske Bank Women’s Premiership trophy and the Toalsbet.com County Antrim FA Women’s Challenge Cup already in the cabinet, created the bulk of the chances in the match and deserved their success after producing some slick football. 

The opening period of the match was scrappy before Glentoran, fielding a team packed with current and former Northern Ireland internationals, enjoyed a period of sustained pressure.

The first clearcut chance of the game saw Glens midfielder Chloe McCarron unleash one of her trademark long range strikes. Her superb hit crashed off the bar and down onto the goalline, however the referee, Arleen Campbell, adjudged that the ball did not cross the line.

On 22 minutes the Glens took the lead thanks to a well worked goal. Captain Jessica Foy crossed to striker Kerry Beattie and she laid the ball back to Andrews 16 yards out and the midfielder planted it past Crues keeper Maddy Harvey-Clifford into the bottom corner of the net.

Five minutes later Strikers midfielder Amy McGivern got on the end of a long pass and scuffed an effort past the post. It was a decent opportunity to equalise.

Andrews had a chance to double the Glens’ lead on 34 minutes. She bamboozled the Crues defence by twisting this way and that, creating an opening, however her weak shot was blocked and Harvey-Clifford gathered the ball.

Crusaders Strikers, who finished third in the league this season behind the Glens and Cliftonville Ladies, struggled to make an impact going forward although experienced midfielder Danielle McDowell-Tuffey did have an opportunity to draw her team level as half-time approached. She stepped up to take a free-kick just outside the area but Glens keeper Emma Higgins comfortably saved her shot at the near post. 

The Crues, whose manager Jonny Tuffey was unable to attend the game due to Covid protocols, made a double substitution after the break with Northern Ireland striker Emily Wilson, who missed last weekend’s Co Antrim Cup decider through injury, and Meghan Ingram entering the fray.

Andrews sprayed a lovely pass to Wade down the left and her tantalising cross was plucked out of the air by Harvey-Clifford, and then McCarron fired a shot over the top.

Moments later Caragh Hamilton let fly from distance and Harvey-Clifford dived full length to push her powerful strike past the post. It was a top class save.

The Crues, with Julie Nelson solid as a rock at the heart of their defence, continued to thwart the Glens’ forwards and they did well to snuff out an Andrews snapshot.

Wilson set off on a powerful run just after the hour mark, leaving a couple of Glentoran defenders trailing in her wake, however her shot from distance was easily held by Higgins.

Glens substitute Danielle Maxwell scooped a shot wide, Nelson stepped in to stop a promising move between Maxwell and Beattie in its tracks and Hamilton fizzed an effort past the post as the Glens continued to push forward.

Glentoran grabbed their second goal – and secured the treble – with minutes remaining. Midfielder Nadene Caldwell jinked her way past a couple of defenders and crossed for Wade to flick the ball past Harvey-Clifford from six yards. 

Evans Hat-Trick Sets Park On The Way

Pride Park 5-3 Wirksworth Colts

By Louise Golby

Above: Tash Allderidge tussles with Wirksworth’s Sarah Stimpson in a previous encounter between the two sides. Photo: Shaun Hardwick

A hat trick for Summer Evans and goals for Allderidge and Lewis-Wilson gave Pride Park a 5-3 win over Wirksworth Colts.

With several players missing some changes had to be made to the starting lineup, but the team looked raring to go as they returned to a very cold Moorways Stadium for the second home game of the season.

Both teams made a good start. Enjoying possession all over the pitch Pride Park took a little longer to settle into the game but ultimately got the first real chance to score. The corner was swung in but the oncoming Bleu Lewis-Wilson couldn’t connect and it gave Wirksworth a chance to gather themselves.

The visitors were able to capitalise and broke down to the other end of the pitch. Georgia Williams beat her defender and picked up the ball in space before slotting it into the back of the net to take the lead.

However, Pride Park didn’t let that faze them and they equalised just four minutes later. A stunning free-kick from captain Tash Allderidge flew straight into the back of the net and with 20 minutes played the game was level. This was a milestone goal for Allderidge as it was her 50th for the team.

Just after half an hour Pride Park made a couple of early substitutions as a way of managing minutes for players who are returning from injuries. Jess Page and Hannah Kwiatek were replaced by Otty Baker and Izzy Wilsoncroft.

For the last 10 minutes of the half Wirksworth created a number of good chances that challenged the Pride Park defence. A shot from outside of the box cannoned off the crossbar but was well collected by keeper Jade Howell as they made a number of last-ditch attempts to be ahead at the break.

Above: Pride Park’s hat-trick hero Summer Evans. Photo Shaun Hardwick.

The home side looked in control as the second half began, controlling the ball and creating several chances before going ahead after 10 minutes. After going close earlier in the match Lewis-Wilson picked up a through ball in the box to tuck the ball into the net.

Wirksworth kept going close, but thanks to a save from the bottom of the post they were unable to score and it was Pride Park who added a third. In her first of the afternoon Evans used her knee to push the ball into the net after a good run and cross by Baker. An unconventional but effective technique that extended her teams lead.

After what could be described as ‘pin-ball’ football, the game kicked up a gear in the final 15 minutes, with four goals before the whistle.

Wirksworth clawed one back through Williams before Pride Park broke down the other end and after slick build up and combination play between Lewis-Wilson, Baker and Laight, an Evans header dipped over the keeper and into the net.

Just before 90 minutes Evans got her third of the game. She danced around her defenders to put the ball past the Wirksworth keeper and seal the win for the home side.

In some last minute dramatics Wirksworth pulled one back deep in injury time, as Williams stooped low to divert a cross past Howell to complete her hat-trick but their efforts weren’t enough to take anything from the game.

Pride Park return to league action next Sunday when they travel to Belper Town (1:30pm).

The View From France

Impetus’ French editor Jean-Pierre Thiesset rounds up all of the action from the sixth week of France’s D1 Arkema, including his exclusive photos from Olympique Lyonnais’ game with Montpellier.

Above: Lyon’s Ellie Carpenter holds off her Matildas team mate Mary Fowler in her team’s clash with Montpellier. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Reims won 5-2 at home against Bordeaux. Even if Bordeaux monopolized the ball with 65% of possession and 455 passes, but both teams had the same number of shots (17) and shots on target (eight). Bordeaux scored first in the sixth minute and most followers thought that it would be an easy game for them. It was without counting on Rachel Corboz, Reims’ captain, who put her side back on level terms ten minutes later with a great shot from 20 meters into the right upper part of the goal leaving no chance to the goalkeeper to catch the ball. Then the young players from Reims showed their qualities starting with Kessya Busy (20 years old) who scored her first of two goals five minutes later with a great shot too. At the beginning of the second half, Melchie Dumornay (18 years old) from Haiti, scored twice in seven minutes.  This is the third win in a row for Reims who are now mid table with the same record as Bordeaux with seven points.

There are rumours that Patrice Lair, Bordeaux’s coach, will probably leave his role soon; more news to come this week.

Goals for Reims came from Rachel Corboz (16), Kessya Bussy (21, 73), and Melchie Dumornay (46, 53). Goals for Bordeaux from Katja Snoeijs (6) and Claire Lavogez (80).

Dijon won away from home 1-0 against Fleury in an important game with fourth place in the league at stake. Both teams are now on nine points with Fleury being in front of Dijon just with a better goal average of  -4 against -7. Katriina Talaslahti, Fleury’s goalkeeper, did a good game for her fourth game in a row as starter, but couldn’t do anything to prevent Solène Barbance’s strike after 29 minutes.

Paris FC won 4-0 at home against Soyaux. Even if Paris FC just slightly dominated the game (57% of possession), they were more efficient with 23 shots (9 on target) against 11 shots (4 on target) for Soyaux. Paris FC remain in third place in the table.

Above: Selma Bacha, on the right, scores Olympique Lyonnais’ first goal against Montpellier in the 33rd minute. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Goals for Paris FC from Coumba Sow (37), Annaig Butel (51), Clara Matéo (63), and Daphne Corboz (78 on penalty).

Issy obtained a draw 1-1 away from home against Guingamp in a game dominated by the hosts (Guingamp had 67% of possession, 24 shots with 11 on target, nine corners). Issy scored despite only mustering 12 shots in comparison with five on target, and four corners. These two teams continue to struggle a lot in the bottom part of the table. Guingamp are ninth with five points and Issy are 11th with four points.

Goal for Issy from Adélie Fourré (62). Goal for Guingamp from Sana Daoudi (55).

Paris St. Germain won at home 2-0 against Saint-Etienne. Paris SG dominated largely this game (66% of possession, 467 passes with 85% successful, and 11 corners) but had only 13 shots with five on target. Paris SG first goal was just before the end of first half at the 43rd minute.

Goals for Paris SG from Sara Dabritz (43), and Marie-Antoinette Katoto (66).

Olympique Lyonnais won 5-0 at home against Montpellier. Lyon dominated largely this game (71% of possession, 646 passes with 88% successful, 8 corners, 39 shots with 16 on target) and could have scored a lot more goals if they scored sooner in the game. Selma Bacha scored the first goal after taking the ball almost from the centre of the field, running the ball up to 20 meters from the goal and delivering a great shot on the right of the goalkeeper at the 33rd minute.

Above: Selma Bacha wins her duel against Montpellier’s Marion Torrent. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus

Congratulations to Selma Bacha who delivered a great game and who was named player of the game for the second consecutive game.

Goals for Lyon from Selma Bacha (33), Marion Torrent (45+2 Over Goal), Perle Morroni (47), Melvine Malard (59), and Sally Julini (88).

Rachel Corboz: A Franco-American in the Champagne Country

Impetus’ French editor Jean-Pierre Thiesset spoke exclusively to Reims captain Rachel Corboz.

Above: Rachel Corboz (right) in action for Reims at Olympique Lyonnais on 2nd August. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

Rachel Corboz was born on May 1, 1996, in Mobile, Alabama, USA to French-born parents, Michel and Christine.

Rachel has a dual citizenship French and American. Her father was a semi-professional footballer in Grenoble, France. Rachel grew up in Green Brook Township, New Jersey and has a brother, Mael, and a sister, Daphne both older than her; they both play football too.

Her brother started playing at university in the USA and now plays in Germany. Her sister also started football at university. She and Rachel then moved to play for Fleury, France before going on to play for Paris FC, France in D1 Arkema.

Rachel spent four years with the Georgetown University women’s soccer team where she scored 34 goals in 88 appearances. She received several distinctions in Big East Conference including Midfielder of the Year during her second year and her senior year. Rachel has been previously selected to train with the United States at U-18, U-20, and U-23 age groups.

Rachel signed for FC Fleury in June 2018. In her first season with the club, she made 19 appearances. She then moved to Reims in D1 Arkema, in June 2019. She played 15 games in 2019-2020 season, and 18 games in season 2020-2021 in which she delivered two decisive passes and scored three goals. She was appointed captain of Reims for the beginning of the 2021/22 season.

Rachel also prepares her future and follow her studies with a Masters in Adaptation to Climate Changes.

Above: Rachel Corboz. Photo: JK Sikorsynski, Stade de Reims.

Interview:

Jean-Pierre Thiesset (JPT): What is your best position to play and which other positions could you play?

Rachel Corboz (RC): My preferred position is as an offensive midfielder, but I can play also off centre on the right or on the left side even if I am right-handed because I have both feet.

JPT: Who/what inspired you to become a football player?

RC: Above all, my brother and my sister who are three years older than me, who played both football and I wanted to follow my sister and do like her. Also, at home, we watched a lot of football with my family and that must have influenced me.

JPT: Why do you play in France rather than in USA?

RC: I prefer the game style that we play in Europe and in France. I find it more technical and tactical, and it suits me better.

JPT: Who is your role-model if you have one?

RC: The player I like is Dzsenifer Marozsan. First because she plays in the same position as me and that in my opinion, she is the best both technically and tactically in this position.

JPT: What is your greatest challenge on the pitch?

RC: I am rather technical, and not very physical, so my biggest challenge on the field is to resist to physical impacts.

JPT: What is your greatest challenge off the pitch?

RC: I would like to be even more sure and confident in myself. It is also a challenge on the pitch elsewhere (laughs).

JPT: Who are your closest teammates?

RC: I am very open and friendly, and I am close to everyone.

JPT: What do you like to get up to off the pitch?

RC: I like to read in English, and practice yoga. I read a bit of everything but mostly novels. Now I am reading “Le comte de Monte-Cristo”. I also devote a lot of time to my studies.

Above: Rachel Corboz. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus

JPT: What makes Reims such a great club to play for?

RC: We have the same facilities than the men and it really is a big plus. We are a united team, all the girls get along well, there are no small groups, everyone talks to everyone and that I think is really a plus in a team because when there starts to be muddles or differences, this is where a team can have problems. It has been like that for three years and it is something that I really appreciated when I arrived in Reims. We also have coaches who are really invested and who really want us to be ambitious as a team; as we do better and better each year, it is good for the team, and I hope it will continue like this (laughs).

JPT: What is your preferred animal?

RC: I love cats. I just had a little kitten.

JPT: What are your preferred foods?

RC: I like everything a bit, but my favourite thing is my mother’s Vegetarian Lasagne.

JPT: What kind of music do you like?

RC: I did not listen a lot of music, but I like alternative music. I like Taylor Swift.

JPT: What is your main quality?

RC: My kindness. I think it is very important to be nice to everyone, even to people you do not know. I was raised by parents who showed me the importance of having this quality with all the people you meet.

JPT: What do you need to improve in your game?

RC: I must improve my speed and my explosiveness. I also must improve my heading because I do not like to make headers (laughs).

JPT: Is there a message you would like to give to your fans?

RC: Thank you very much for supporting us and I think it is important that you continue to support us. I think the only way for women’s football to grow is through the supporters who come to games and those who watch the games on TV. Keep supporting us, there have been more and more spectators since my first year here and it would be nice to see more and more people at the games.