With Round Three done and dusted in the A-League Women, it’s time for the weekly awards given out by our team of writers covering the competition. For the first time, there was some divergence in opinion betweenKris Goman, Kieran Yap,and Ben Gilby(20/12/21).
PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
Above: Lynn Williams (right) who was the choice of two of our three A-League Women writing team for Player of the Week. Photo: @gomvfc
Kris: For me, it has to be Lynn Williams. She scored a wonderful goal and an assist. Williams was all over the field showing her class for Melbourne Victory. Honourable mention to Cote Rojas who was fantastic when she came off the bench for Sydney FC. She’s got that South American flair and I love it.
Kieran: It’s Lynn Williams. One goal and two assists when Victory were being outplayed away from home and without Chidiac. Can’t argue with the stats.
Ben: I’ve found it really hard this week. I thought Rhianna Pollicina bossed the first half for Melbourne City against Adelaide United and then Fiona Worts was instrumental in the South Australian side’s second-half comeback. I was overjoyed to see Cote Rojas back in the Dub, she is just outstanding. Lynn Williams deserves a mention too, but I’m going with Cortnee Vine. She was unstoppable down the right for Sydney FC and scored a super goal. She’s back to her best after that dreadful injury.
COACH OF THE WEEK:
Above: Rado Vidosic pictured at this week’s press conference where he made a personal plea for improvements to the A-League Women competition. Photo: Melbourne City.
Kris: Wellington Phoenix’s Gemma Lewis. They really stepped up against Sydney and didn’t collapse under the pressure. The team looked solid and are clearly coming together well. They kept the pressure on during the game.
Kieran: Melbourne Victory’s Jeff Hopkins. Williams was the hero, but he’s maintained form and full results with a constantly shifting lineup. Adding Alana Murphy to the starting lineup was a bold decision that will pay off long term.
Ben: Melbourne City’s Rado Vidosic. Not necessarily for how his team performed against Adelaide United, but for raising his head above the parapet and stating with passion and belief what he believes has to be done between now and 2023 to get the A-League Women competition in a strong place. His follow-up comment that if the changes are not made by the end of 2023 it is too late is a warning to the powers that be.
EVENT OF THE WEEK:
Above: Western Sydney Wanderers’ Ashlie Crofts who had an incredible debut. Photo: @wswanderers
Kris: The psycho last ten minutes of the Wanderers v Jets match culminating in Ashlie Crofts debut ALW goal. End to end to end to end football that was both frantic and exciting.
Kieran: Ashlie Croft’s equalizer for Western Sydney Wanderers, not only a vital goal in a team desperately needing a good moment, but a childhood fan becoming a hero for her hometown club.
Ben: Ashlie Croft’s equalizer at the death for Western Sydney Wanderers. It’s an incredible story – goal on your debut to save a point for your hometown club that you were a member (season ticket holder) of as a kid. What a moment.
Above: Wellington Phoenix’s Kate Taylor tussles with Sydney FC’s Remy Siemsen earlier today. Photo: @SydneyFC
Sydney FC extended their winning start to the A-League Women’s campaign with a comfortable victory over a game Wellington Phoenix side in difficult conditions at Kogarah.
The match was played in hot conditions with rain then arriving in the second half at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium with four drinks breaks throughout the encounter.
The pre-game team news for the home side centred around goalkeeper Jada Whyman making her 50th W-/A-League Women appearance. For Phoenix, Alyssa Whinham was named in the starting lineup for the first time and attacker Kelli Brown made her debut for the New Zealanders.
Above: Sydney FC’s Jada Whyman, who made her 50th W-/A-League Women performance today. Photo: @ALeagueWomen
Sydney started strongly with the in-form Cortnee Vine found on the right flank. She advanced towards the box, beating Saskia Vosper with something to spare and playing in Remy Siemsen, who couldn’t get any power into her shot and a combination of a deflection and the handiwork of Phoenix keeper Lily Alfeld cleared the danger.
Powerful runs along the flanks created another opportunity with nine minutes played when Ally Green’s cross from the left, got past Nix vice-captain Kate Taylor, who couldn’t get her head on the ball, and it fell towards Vine who couldn’t get an accurate shot away
Phoenix were having success in the middle of the park, asserting pressure on the home side. They also conjured up their first real opportunity when Whinham showed superb skill to turn away from Nat Tobin and Charlotte Mclean on the left of the box, but she couldn’t put in an effort to worry Whyman. The frustration showed on the teenage midfielder’s face, but it was further evidence that Wellington have some excellent creative players in their ranks.
It’s not just creativity that Phoenix possesses. They have some excellent readers of the game. 18-year-old Taylor was putting herself about physically on Siemsen with impressive results.
But for all that, Sydney still had the gun players to cause damage. With 24 minutes on the clock, in a move reminiscent of one of the early plays of the match, Jessika Nash’s throw saw Vine got free from Vosper on the right and have acres of space to drive into the box and curl home a beautiful finish from an acute angle between Phoenix’s would-be tacklers Grace Wisnewski and Taylor with the outside of her foot
Above: There was lots for Sydney FC to celebrate today. Photo: @SydneyFC
Wellington reacted well initially with Whinham again creating an opportunity after combining with Brown.
With seven minutes of the half to go, Vine continued her rampage along the right before squaring the ball back to Siemsen but the Matilda’s effort went over the bar.
The right was Sydney’s most productive area of the pitch with crosses galore and a large number of set-pieces being awarded down this flank with Hawkesby and Vine causing untold damage throughout the half with Princess Ibini and occasionally Taylor Ray popping up to add additional pressure down that side.
Yet, it remained just 1-0 at the break as Phoenix’s block defence was largely well organised which ensured that despite having plenty of possession and opportunities, the Sky Blues could only force the ball into the net once.
Sydney created the first real chance of the second half six minutes in when Siemsen ran onto a perfectly weighted through ball. Her attempt to square it across to Vine was partially blocked by Taylor into the path of Hawkesby who fired a powerful shot straight into Alfeld’s midriff.
Sydney doubled their lead with 54 minutes played. Ibini won a free-kick down the left after being barged off of the ball by Isobel Gomez. The resulting set-piece was sliced out for a throw. Green then advanced along the left and won a corner from Zoe McMeeken. Hawkesby found Ibini in acres of space from the flag-kick on the left of the box. The striker turned Chloe Knott and side-footed what was most likely a shot that took a deflection into the path of Charlize Rule who was totally unmarked at the back post to tap home.
Above: Charlize Rule (centre) celebrates her goal with Nat Tobin (left) and Cortnee Vine (right). Photo: @ALeagueWomen
As the game approached the hour mark, whilst the temperature was dropping and rain began to fall, it was clear that the heat had impacted Phoenix with Sydney being able to find increased spaces to attack.
Vine had a great opportunity with 65 minutes on the clock as Ibini danced past McMeeken and a through ball came her way via interplay between Hawkesby and Siemsen, but Alfeld advanced quickly to push the ball away for a corner which was cleared.
Within seconds though, the Sky Blues grabbed their third. Ibini dispossessed Mackenzie Barry and played a 1-2 with Siemsen. From the return ball, Hawkesby hit a first-time effort with her left foot into the far corner.
With 20 minutes to go, Cote Rojas was brought on for her Sydney FC debut. The Chilean superstar had previously lit up the competition with Adelaide United and was in outrageous form for Salisbury Inter during the South Australia NPL this year. Shortly afterward, Paige Satchell entered the field to take on her fellow Kiwis, but her pacey battles along the right-hand side with Tabitha Kramer were largely won by the Phoenix’s former Western Sydney Wanderers defender.
With eight minutes left, the 22-year-old Katie Offer came on in goal to get some experience and she only had limited work to do in the period. When she was called into action, it was to prevent an own goal as Ibini sliced a clearance towards her own goal which the Sydney keeper had to palm away.
Above: Mackenzie Hawkesby (facing camera) joins with Princess Ibini and Remy Siemsen (right) to celebrate her goal that put Sydney FC 3-0 up. Photo: @ALeagueWomen
Rojas’s trickery and pace shone through in the final stages with one trademark curled long through ball with the outside of her foot towards Ibini highlighting just what she brings to the party. Her other stock in trades – those quick feet, swivel turns, and upper body strength were also well in evidence. The Chilean was certainly the last thing that the tiring Wellington youngsters wanted to face with the clock winding down.
Despite Sydney completely controlling the final part of the game, they could not add to their goal tally. With Rojas now an integral part of an attack that also contains Siemsen, Vine, and Ibini, the rest of the competition is on notice – the Sky Blues are coming for you.
Impetus heard from bothhead coaches after the game. Sydney’s Ante Juric was clear that he sees plenty of room for his team can get better: “I don’t think it was our best game but we are gradually getting there. Like last week we played in patches, when we did play well in patches we looked very good but I still think we are way off, however it’s nice to win. We’ve still go enormous growth left in us.”
Wellington Phoenix’s Gemma Lewis saw further positives from her team in what was their toughest test so far: “I definitely think there were better moments in the game. We were more organized. There were moments in the game where I think we had a little bit of momentum, a little bit more territory and we were trying to stick to the way we wanted to play.
Above: Wellington Phoenix’s A-League Men’s team, who were also playing Sydney FC at Kogarah today, pictured supporting the club’s A-League Women side. Photo: @WgtnPhoenixFC
“I’m really proud of them for still pushing, still playing through the 90, and still trying to look for a goal, even at the end. A three-nil result sucks but at the same time there were moments in that performance we can be happy with I think.”
Lewis believes that the hot weather at the start of the game had an impact on her young team, which has an average age of just 19.
“It was tough. We knew some of our girls were going to struggle with it. There’s a couple of our girls who do struggle in heat as you would have seen from that game. Even being over here hasn’t really helped us too much because the weather has been really rubbish up until this point.
“We actually haven’t had a lot of time to acclimatise to it either. The last couple of days have been the first days for us it’s really been above 30 degrees so it was tough conditions for the players. But they still pushed through, they were still professional, they knew it was the same for both sides, so they got on with it.”
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Above: Melbourne Victory celebrate Catherine Zimmerman’s match deciding third goal with five minutes to play. Photo: @gomvfc.
Lynn Williams was the difference in a tightly contested attacking match between Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar.
The results of the first two rounds show that Brisbane had two losses and Victory two wins, However, the defending champions went into this game vulnerable.
Brisbane were at home, in need of a win, and had played some great football in the opening games. Only a calamitous error and a deflected shot stood between them and at least a couple of points.
Above: Melbourne Victory’s Courtney Nevin (left) is beaten to the ball against the Roar. Photo: @brisbaneroar
Victory on the other hand, were stretched at the back. Kayla Morrison’s absence was keenly felt in the derby against Melbourne City. Their local rivals took advantage with long balls over the top. Claudia Bunge and Amy Jackson had trouble cutting out these attacks and Brisbane would have studied this.
The first clear chance of the game came from Victory. Kyra Cooney-Cross whipped in one of her trademark corner kicks. Bunge leapt at the back post and made clean contact. Her header momentarily looked dangerous but floated harmlessly beyond danger.
Anna Margraf had Brisbane’s best chance in the first half. She found herself in space, behind the Melbourne defence and with only Casey Dumont to beat. The Victory keeper made herself big and was decisive in coming off her line. It was a good save but a lost opportunity.
Victory did not waste their next opportunity. Cooney-Cross played in a deeper position, using her pace to carry the ball from deep and passing range to spread the play. For the opening goal of the game, she sent a perfect pass out to Harriet Withers. The new recruit picked out Lynn Williams with a perfect cross and the American bulleted a header in to take the lead.
Brisbane kept threatening. Throughout the game, they would have 15 shots on goal. Katrina Gorry’s class was evident in her first start of the season. Her whipped-in low ball was cleared by Victory but the Matilda was looking dangerous.
Shea Connors looked the most likely to score for The Roar, her battle on the left wing with Polly Doran was vital in this match. For the first half at least Doran was the winner, but Connors was a constant danger.
Brisbane came out in the second half in search of an equalizer but Victory scored first again. It was the same combination in the reverse order. Lynn Williams raced down the left-wing, twisting and bustling to the by-line. She hooked in a cross to the back post where Withers was waiting to knock it into the net.
If you were late back to your seat from the interval, you would have missed this goal. It was a quick rebuke to any of Brisbane’s halftime plans.
At 2-0 up, It would be safe to assume that Victory were cruising, but this was not the case. It has been the pattern of Brisbane Roar this season to attack easily, attack dangerously but struggle to score. They play some brilliant football and it would even be harsh to say they lack an edge upfront. As basic as it sounds, they have just been unlucky.
Shea Connors tried to break that streak. Her goal in the 65th minute gave the home side hope and the home fans something to cheer about. It was the first goal by either the men or women’s teams at home this season and it was a deserved reward for her effort and endeavour.
Connors raced onto a long ball from Rie Kitano. She was goal side of Polly Doran and Bunge for the first time in the game with space ahead of her. Dumont came out to narrow the angle but Connors took her time to place the shot into the goal.
Brisbane had a chance and they threw everything at Victory to try and score another while the champions held on and defended sometimes desperately.
Above: Shea Connors (left) celebrates her goal for Brisbane Roar. Photo: @brisbaneroar
Connors had a penalty claim waved away and an equalizer disallowed for a very close offside call but a second Brisbane goal seemed likely.
It would come, but not until after Victory scored a third. Williams again was uncontainable. She slalomed her way past two Brisbane defenders on the right flank. Her low cut back made for an easy tap-in by Catherine Zimmerman. Victory were 3-1 up and it felt like game over.
That was until Larissa Crummer had a say in proceedings. Brisbane’s number nine raced through the middle of the pitch and out positioned Courtney Nevin. Her first attempt was well blocked by Dumont but she lifted the rebound over the sprawling keeper to make it 3-2 with about a minute remaining.
Victory were faced with similar circumstances to last week. A one-goal advantage, a tired defence, and a resurgent opposition. Maja Markovski deserves plaudits for her match awareness and composed footwork. The striker kept possession, moved the ball safely, and earned a free-kick as the clock ticked down.
Above: Victory acclaim their third and ultimately winning goal. Photo: @gomvfc
Victory held on again and Brisbane rued missed chances again. They had 15 shots on goal for the match and eventually more chances will start going in.
Melbourne have defensive reinforcements arriving soon. Until then they might just continue to try and outscore their opponents. It has worked so far and they have the attacking talent to do it.
Speaking about her team’s performance, Brisbane Roar’s Katrina Gorry admitted: “We’re creating chances, as we have in all three games now, but the finishing is not there.
“We need to be playing the ball around more, win our one on ones and start scoring some goals.”
Above: Shea Connors, one of the bright lights in Brisbane’s performance once more. Photo: @brisbaneroar.
Harriet Withers spoke of relief of getting the win: “It was a lot closer than it should have been at the end. When they got that first goal and got it back to 2-1 that was hard, but we got it out again to 3-1, then they came again. It was hard, but credit to the girls, they never give up.
“Kudos to Roar, they came back and never gave up. Everyone did really well. It was great to provide an assist for Lynn’s goal, she is an amazing player. I came off with a groin issue that has been niggling me all week. I just need to rest it and I’ll be back next week.”
Roar’s first goalscorer Shea Connors showed frustration at the outcome: “It’s disappointing again because I feel like we are a good side but we can’t get the results.”
Scorers: Williams 36’, Withers 46’, Zimmerman 85′.
Referee: Lara Lee.
Attendance: 1,258.
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Above: Melbourne City’s Rhianna Pollicina faces off against Adelaide United’s Emily Hodgson. Photo: @MelbourneCity
Melbourne City produced a dominant hour of football to condemn Adelaide United to their second defeat in three weeks at AAMI Park in a physical encounter. However, head coach Rado Vidosic may well be frustrated by his side’s inability to play for ninety minutes again.
Melbourne City welcomed back Chelsea Blissett on the bench which marked her first matchday involvement after missing the whole of last season with an ACL injury. For Adelaide United, Isobel Hodgson was out with a hamstring injury which brought Shadeene Evans back into the starting line-up. Leah Varley, from the small town of Finley, NSW which can also boast four top AFL players as well as rock band Spiderbait among the products of its 2,500 population, was on the bench for the South Australians.
Above: Holly McNamara (right) in possession under the watchful eye of Adelaide United’s Paige Hayward. Photo: @MelbourneCity.
The match burst into life instantly for City as Holly McNamara put a dangerous cross into the box towards Hannah Wilkinson, but teenager United defender Ella Tonkin managed to get her head on the ball which was enough to just about divert it away from the Kiwi international for a corner. The resulting set-piece was played short to Rebekah Stott whose ball back into the mix took a deflection off of Reds defender Emma Stanbury and went narrowly over the bar.
In his pre-game press conference, City head coach Rado Vidosic emphasized how he wanted to get his team back to the way they were playing two seasons ago when they were able to reduce the opposition’s time in possession to an average of nine seconds each time.
His players had clearly listened as they were maintaining a high press and exceptionally hungry to win the ball back as soon as the South Australians gained it. Although it is fair to say that City weren’t alone in their aggressive approach with Evans dropping deep and buzzing around the midfield in the opening exchanges to dispossess City.
Above: Adelaide United’s Ella Tonkin (right) has her eyes on the ball. Photo: @MelbourneCity
After 15 minutes of harum-scarum end-to-end action which saw City have the better opportunities, the game settled slightly. The hosts continued to create though and a superb ball in from the right by Rhianna Pollicina found the head of Wilkinson who put the ball wide of the far post.
With 25 minutes on the clock, City were rightly aggrieved at having a clear free-kick in a central position just outside the box denied them. United’s Matilda McNamara, the final defender, looked to have a hold on Holly McNamara’s shirt and clip her heels, yet play was waved on.
Stanbury then copped a nasty blow to her side in a challenge with Tyla-Jay Vlajnic which prompted a long delay before she was passed fit to continue.
Above: Emma Stanbury in possession for Adelaide United at AAMI Park today. Photo: @AdelaideUnited
With the half entering its final 15 minutes, City were denied by referee Rachael Mitchenson once more as Emily Hodgson handled in the box but no penalty was forthcoming.
Adelaide then provided a reminder of the danger of not turning possession into goals when Fiona Worts was played in by Evans and held off Emma Checker with her effort having to be pushed out for a corner by Melissa Barbieri.
The home side were well on top and finally made that tell with 38 minutes on the clock. A long cross-field ball from the right was initially repelled by United, before Pollicina won possession back and found Vlajnic outside her who offloaded to Wilkinson before the ball was then moved on to Leah Davidson. The midfielder returned the ball to Pollicina just outside the 18-yard box to the left. City’s former Newcastle Jets striker took a touch, turned Hodgson, and thumped home a glorious long-range effort into the top right-hand corner.
Above: Melbourne City jump for joy after scoring two goals in quick succession. Photo: @MelbourneCity.
Just two minutes later, City doubled their lead. Pollicina’s corner from the left was met by a thumping header from Wilkinson who beat Tonkin comfortably in the air to score.
The Sky Blues were on fire with Pollicina having a field day. Just before the break she drove through the centre, played a delightful ball inside to Holly McNamara who forced a superb save at the near post from Annalee Grove.
After a frustrating spell where they could not turn possession into a scoreboard lead, the half-time whistle brought about a half-time score which reflected the balance of power.
Melbourne City came out firing at the start of the second half with a series of clever positional runs and inside balls. With only three minutes on the period played, and a City cross in from the left led to Matilda McNamara swinging her foot out and hitting the ball against her own bar.
Above: Emily Condon in action before going off through injury. Adelaide United will be hoping that it is not a serious setback for their talismanic star. Photo: @AdelaideUnited.
A disappointing afternoon for Adelaide United looked to worsen when captain Emily Condon left the pitch just before the hour mark limping to be replaced by Reona Amiya. Despite the loss of Condon, the visitors had now drawn the sting from City and began to offer more in an attacking sense as Paige Hayward got a shot away which bounced in front of Barbieri and into her arms.
The home goalkeeper was called into action again three minutes later when Worts hit a shot on the turn outside of the box from the right which swerved in the air and bounced in front of Barbieri who shovelled it away for a corner which Stott then headed over for a repeat flag-kick.
This time, Worts’ ball in was met with a powerful header from Evans at the back post which was pushed out by Barbieri into the path of Dawber who could not miss. Worts was a major influence on Adelaide’s second-half revival. The striker, who was a major part of Fulham United’s revival in the latter part of the SA NPL season was bringing Dawber into the game more and also responsible for the increasing impact of Evans.
Shortly afterward, roared on by the Melbourne Victory fans in the stadium for the following A-League Men’s derby, Evans ran down the right and found Dawber who got a shot away which the Sky Blues custodian saved.
Above: Adelaide United’s Fiona Worts (left) had a hugely influential second half. Photo: @AdelaideUnited.
With 20 minutes to go, Chelsea Blissett made her return to top-level women’s football after over a year’s absence as she replaced Vlajnic.
For the third time during the game, referee Rachael Mitchenson sparked the ire of Melbourne City as Stanbury had a hand of Wilkinson’s shirt. Having been booked earlier in the game, the Adelaide defender was let off by the official when most expected a second yellow followed by a red to be shown.
Less than a minute later, Mitchensen was being cursed once more, but this time by Adelaide. Dawber found Worts on the left of the box and there was what looked like an arm on the back of the striker by Checker which caused Worts to go to ground, but again the official ignored the appeals.
Despite having the loud vocal support of the ever-increasing crowd of Melbourne Victory fans, Adelaide couldn’t quite find an equalizer despite having the best of the last half-hour and in the final minute of stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes, City made them pay.
Leticia McKenna, on as a sub went agonizingly close, and then almost instantly afterward, the Western Australian played a ball in from the right which bounced into the path of Wilkinson who ran across Matilda McNamara and slid home the clinching goal. It was another three points for City, but again they fell away after the hour mark – something that on another day would have cost them the win.
Speaking about her influential first half, City star Rhianna Pollicina said: “Hannah (Wilkinson) has got some height on her and it was a good switch up from earlier short corners. Luckily for her, she got her first goal. In terms of my own goal, when I hit it, I knew I hit it sweet, but I didn’t know it was going in to start with!”
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Words and Pictures by Jean-Pierre Thiessetdirect from the Groupama Training Centre(18/12/21).
Above: Catarina Macario in action for Lyon during the game against BK Häcken. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
As expected in a game between the top UEFA-ranked side, Olympique Lyonnais, and 27th placed BK Häcken, this game was won by Lyon. The French side earned 59% of possession, 555 passes with an 82% success rate, 24 shots with 12 on target, and seven corners. For BK Häcken, 41% of possession, 409 passes with 72% successful, four shots with one on target, and no corners.
However, it was not an easy game for Lyon in the first half against a physical team that tried to play their game which perturbed the home players who had to wait until the 35th minute to score. Catarina Macario hit the crossbar after receiving the ball from Selma Bacha’s cross but was able to put the rebound into the net.
The Swedish visitors continued to push up to the end of the first half but without really being able to threaten the Lyon goal.
Above: Ada Hegerberg makes it 2-0 for Lyon in the 52nd minute. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
The second half started with Lyon’s players more aggressive and more accurate on their passes and the game quickly turned to their advantage with a goal from Ada Hegerberg after 52minutes again following a cross from Selma Bacha.
With 76 minutes on the clock, Amandine Henry scored solo goal after intercepting the ball 20 meters from goal, the consequence of a high press.
Above: Amandine Henry – who scored Lyon’s third goal, in action during the game. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Janice Cayman made it 4-0 when she hit a half volley on a pivot on a cross from Melvine Malard to score a wonderful goal just three minutes later.
Above: Janice Cayman, who made it 4-0, in action during the game against BK Häcken. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Without a great performance from BK Häcken goalkeeper, Jennifer Falk, especially in the second half, Lyon would have scored a lot more. Falk made several excellent saves.
Above: One of the great saves by BK Häcken goalkeeper Jennifer Falk against Lyon. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Selma Bacha, who was voted the best D1 Arkema player of the month in September and November, delivered another great game as a left-sided striker. She made two decisive passes in this UEFA Women Champions League game. Bacha continues to put in outstanding performances whatever she plays as a left defender or left striker.
Above: A tussle for the ball between Wanderers and Jets last night. Photo: Getty Imagesvia Newcastle Jets.
A nail-biting end-to-end game saw the first-ever draw in a game between Western Sydney Wanderers and Newcastle Jets. Two debut goals and a substantial number of near misses left the crowd enthralled on a sunny afternoon at Wanderers Park.
Wanderers were coming into the match winless and goalless after a first-round draw with Wellington Phoenix and a loss at the hands of Sydney last week. Newcastle start on a high after thrashing Phoenix last week but, similarly, losing to Sydney the week prior.
Newcastle are celebrating a couple of milestones this week with Emily Van Egmond playing her 100th W/A-League Women game and Cass Davis playing her 100th consecutive W/A-League Women match – all for Newcastle Jets. She’s literally played in every single match the Newcastle Jets have played since the 2013/2014 season.
Newcastle are playing in their white away strip and the Wanderers are in their familiar black and red. Wanderers kick-off.
Photo: @WSWanderers
Elizabeth Eddy gives an early foul on Teigan Collister for hanging on to her in the tackle. The free-kick lands with Brylee Henry who heads it but it’s sent out for the first corner. Libby Copus-Brown’s kick goes to Claire Hunt but she can’t direct her header down and it lands on top of the net. Wanderers are applying pressure early on.
Eddy takes a long shot from almost the sideline to goal. It’s a long way and easily gathered by Sarah Langman, under no pressure.
Hunt loses the ball during an attempted dribble out of the box and is relieved by Ashlee Brodigan. Caitlin Cooper rushed back to use her body to see the ball over the byline safely as Brodigan’s shot goes wide.
Emily Van Egmond receives a quality ball into the box but turned and cut it back instead of shooting. There was no one there for her pass. Seemed to be a golden opportunity wasted.
Hannah Brewer gets a yellow for a late tackle on Erica Halloway. A pass across the goal is missed by Sheridan Gallagher. Halloway connects but it hits the post in a very close attempt.
Out of the blue, Tiana Jaber gets a pass from Davis, cuts back and takes a very long shot from downtown, and unleashes a missile that goes over Langman’s fingertips and hits the back of the net. Jets go up 1-0 at 21 minutes in.
Henry is awarded a free-kick after a rumble with Davis. It’s in a good spot to retaliate. Copus-Brown takes it after returning to the field from an asthma attack but Taren King heads it out. Copus-Brown takes the corner which is cleared by Van Egmond.
The Jets retaliate and Brodigan passes to Sunny Franco in the box but she can’t get onto the ball and Langman collects it.
Looks like Copus-Brown hasn’t recovered from her asthma issues and comes off to be replaced by Rosie Galea at 28 minutes.
Georgia Boric distributed out from goal straight to Galea but she passed to Gallagher who was still coming back onside. Gallagher then finds herself offside again after a nice build-up into the box. Wanderers are now squandering chances.
Gallagher picked up the ball in the box, cuts back, and shoots low. Boric gets to it without too many problems. Galea has another shot immediately afterwards in a sustained Wanderers attack just before halftime. Danika Matos sees the half out by sending a curling pass into the box but Henry can’t get to it before Boric.
Above: Wanderers’ Erica Halloway (8) keeps her eyes on the ball against the Jets. Photo: Getty Images via Newcastle Jets..
Ashlie Crofts comes on for Collister at halftime. Wanderers come back on fighting. Brodigan gives away a free kick on the edge of the box but the free-kick comes to nothing as it’s well defended.
With 56 minutes played, and Sophie Harding replaces Brodigan. The 22-year-old is an imposing figure. Newcastle launch a spate of attacks and Tara Andrews sends a shot from the right straight to Langman. Van Egmond’s corner goes over the mob assembled in front of goal. Shortly after, Van Egmond crafts a long shot on goal but it’s just off target and goes to the right of goal. She’s certainly been successful before with those tactics but it doesn’t come off this time.
Up the other end, Galea shoots from the left. It crosses goal and goes just out to the right similar to Van Egmond’s shot. Gallagher can’t get to it. Galea misses another shot that goes wild, immediately after. Then Matos gets taken down by Brewer at top of the box. It’s a dangerous spot. Olivia Price takes it and it hits the left post hard. Henry’s follow-up goes high.
Harding, down the other end, beats Langman and has an open goal but Hunt comes in to clear in a heroic effort that saves a certain goal.
Alexia Apostolakis is on for Malia Steinmetz at 72 minutes. She took a pretty serious knock immediately prior so 15-year-old Alexia Apostolakis gets into her second game with the Wanderers with some decent minutes this time.
Above: Erica Halloway (left) tries to hold off Jets’ Sophie Harding. Photo: Getty Images via Newcastle Jets.
Harding cracks a shot from the left and Langman has it covered again. In a breakaway attack, Harding squares the ball to Franco but she shanks it and it goes off to the left in a missed golden opportunity.
Tara Andrews goes off at 77 minutes to be replaced by Jemma House.
Henry is pushed over by Eddy in the box during a cross. Galea gets the ball but it’s high over the crossbar. There are calls all over the park for a penalty but the referee isn’t listening. The bench is furious.
Jaber directs a pass to Franco in the box and she gets away a strong kick but it deflects off the boots of a defender. As the clock runs down, the game speeds up and the ball is all over the park. Build-up play is long gone and we’re in counterattack mode.
Gallagher to Galea and she tries another long shot. This is closer but it’s still out to the top left.
Above: Sunny Franco in possession for the Jets last night. Photo: Getty Images via Newcastle Jets.
Harding brings a ball down the side and crosses as she approaches goal but there’s no one there to tap it in.
A Galea corner hits the crossbar. The rebound is sent to heaven by Price. Shots on target are seriously lacking by the Wanderers. Another concerted attack ends in a cross by Cooper headed out by Crofts.
Back down the other end and it’s Franco to Harding dead centre for the shot. A big save by Langman out there on her own.
Another bending shot by Galea goes straight into the arms of Boric. At least it’s finally on target.
A ball comes down the centre from Price through a series of headers. Gallagher gets it to Crofts who lobs it over Boric to finally get the equalizer right on 90 minutes and not before time. The hometown crowd erupts. It’s 1-1 with four minutes of extra time.
Apostolakis brings the ball downfield and gets it out to Galea but her shot is wide again.
A big ball in from the Jets sees Langman do an Aussie Rules-style jump to get the ball. It’s just up and down the field constantly. Another shot by Gallagher is too soft and gathered by Boric. It’s crazy scenes as both teams tries everything to take the lead and the three points.
Above: Sarah Langman bravely gathers the ball. Photo: Getty Images via Newcastle Jets.
Price evades a few players and Cooper shoots but it’s straight to Boric again.
Halloway gets taken down by House with a shoulder to the chest and looks to be in some considerable pain. Sarah Morgan comes on for Halloway in the dying seconds to make her WSW debut.
Another Wanderers attack is saved by Van Egmond. We’re in extra, extra time. One more attack by the Jets sees Hunt head it away and it finally finishes in a draw. Everyone is exhausted, including the spectators. It’s the first time these teams have ever drawn.
It seems a fair result given the see-sawing nature of the game. Possession was fairly even. Wanderers had 20 shots to Jets’ 14 but only six were on target. But then only four of Jets’ were too. Notably, Jets had 13 fouls to Wanderers six. Most other stats were pretty even. Interestingly, both goals were their first in the ALW for Jaber and Crofts. Seems only fitting that both teams take a point from the match.
Above: Clare Hunt – another strong performance for the Wanderers. Photo: @WSWanderers
Speaking after the game, Wanderers’ debutant goalscorer Ashlie Crofts spoke of her joy: “It was pretty awesome! I’m from Western Sydney so to get a debut goal for this club is amazing. All I wanted was three points, but I’ll take a goal!
“It’s crazy, I used to be a member of the club, I went to the old Pirtek Stadium, sing with the fans, so to play for this awesome club. I’ll keep giving it everything I’ve got. As soon as I heard I would be on the bench, everyone I know wanted a ticket to come down!
“We’re happy with a point, but disappointed not to get three. We’ll review the game, see what we need to work on, get back to training, and hopefully take all three points against Sydney FC next week.”
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Above: Beccles Town break into the box to get a shot away at home to Thetford Town. Photo: Luca Mangili
Pleasantly mild conditions greeted both Beccles and Thetford for this latest Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One encounter at College Meadow.
The pitch passed a morning inspection but was not in a good condition and both teams were hoping for no rainfall during the match as it would have given the referee a decision to make as to whether we should carry on. Thankfully we got our wish and a cracking game developed.
It was Beccles who came out of the blocks flying and looked like the form team, a close moment early on but a new signing on dual registration from King’s Lynn Town, Ellie Prentice was there to deal with the danger.
Beccles battered the Thetford goal with five corners in as many minutes but couldn’t make any of them count and the score remained level to Thetford relief. Thetford grew into the match slowly and the visitors’ first chance came when Melissa Boulton passed across the keeper but there was nobody to help her and the ball went out of play.
Thetford began to play the football that has seen them go unbeaten to this point and Abbie Corbyn was next to get into a good position but needed more time and was unable to finish.
Above: Waiting for the goalkick at Beccles. Photo: Luca Mangili
Beccles then went back on the front foot and were clean through but Chloe Webb was there to track back well and stop the shot on goal.
In the 18th minute, Thetford took the lead thanks to a cool finish from Becky White but this was against the run of play after a good start to the game from Beccles but a clinical finish saw the visitors in front. Chelsea Page was next to go close for the visitors before Lola Barber-King had a further chance for Beccles, but Ellie Prentice was there to deal.
Credit to Prentice who was superb with her goal kicks all afternoon and added an authoritative figure to the already talented visitors as she looked to gain further game time to help with her King’s Lynn match fitness.
Thetford had another let-off when Barber-King had a further chance but Beccles again failed to find the required clinical edge.
Thetford regular goalkeeper Lydia Ward was introduced as an outfield player and lit up the game with some thunderbolt set pieces the sort of thing Stoke City would be proud of in their lofty Premier League days.
The rest of the half was stop-start due to a number of injuries but it was noticeable how much Abbie Corbyn was trying to make things happen for Thetford. Just before the break, Beccles half was summed up when they missed an open goal.
Above: The penalty box organization ahead of a corner. Photo: Luca Mangili
Beccles started the half well and equalized with a penalty on 53 minutes through Lola Barber-King. This was the wake-up call that Thetford needed as they then took the game by the scruff of the neck. Chelsea Page crashed a chance against the bar and down it came.
Abbie Corbyn then got involved in events, starting with a free-kick into the keepers’ hands, she then went close again before a case of third time lucky in the 65th minute – a great finish from the talented youngster to give Thetford the lead again.
The remainder of the game was very scrappy on a pitch that was getting worse. Thetford had the better of the late stages and it was Chelsea Page who put the icing on the cake on 89 minutes with the clinching goal.
This was a very important win for Thetford on an afternoon where three key players were missing, guided brilliantly on the touchline by the management team the girls’ quality came to the fore second half. Fortunately, they had the opportunity to win it as Beccles were not clinical and will be very disappointed they didn’t lead comfortably at halftime. Thetford can be very proud and another vital three points to maintain the unbeaten start to the season in all competitions.
Thetford player of the match: Abbie Corbyn.
Teams:BECCLES TOWN: Lilly Bullock, Leah Sheperd, Kelly Collins, Bethan Owen, Lauren Heller, Poppy Wilson, Abi Bell, Elisha Bower, Lola Barber King (C), Mae Hughes, Shannon Dade. Subs: Vicky Bloomfield, Marie Carter, Erin Crowson.
Scorer: Barber King (pen) 53′.
THETFORD TOWN: Ellie Prentice, Chloe Webb, Ellie Mae-Davies, Courtney Musgrove, Zoe Klimcke, Sausha Levy Twomey (C), Abbie Corbyn, Chelsea Page, Becky White, Mel Boulton, Jess Boulton. Subs: Amy Skipp, Libby Smith, Lydia Ward. Scorers: Becky White, Abbie Corbyn, Chelsea Page.
Impetus’ Ben Gilby rounds up the week’s media conferences in the A-League Women. This week he heard from five head coaches andplayers Emma Checker, Paige Satchell, and Chelsee Washington. There is also the latest on Perth Glory‘s immediate fixture schedule (17/12/21).
ADELAIDE UNITED: StentaCalls For A Confident Performance
Above: Adrian Stenta pictured talking to the media at Marden Sports Complex today. Photo: Adelaide United
Head coach Adrian Stenta began his media briefing at Marden by reviewing last week’s last gasp win over Canberra United.
“The belief has always been in the squad. The resilience was great. There are still things that we need to work on, but the main thing we can do is put the effort in and get a result, especially after what happened in Round One (a 5-1 loss at Melbourne Victory).
“There are only 12 games to go, it seems strange to say that as we’ve only just started, so it was important to get points on the board last week and build some momentum.”
With Adelaide United having announced the return of Dylan Holmes in midweek, Stenta was absolutely delighted to have the defender back: “Her return will certainly bring about some selection headaches, but that’s a good thing. The best thing about Dylan is that she is just a wonderful person. She has leadership qualities and additional experience that she has had in the last 12 months. We’re rapt to have her back and to have her around the squad. She’ll bring quality to our side.
Turning his attention to United’s game this weekend with Melbourne City, the Reds’ head coach observed: “They are a quality side who are well-coached. We are expecting a tough test and they are looking to bounce back after a loss as we were last time out. It will be a challenging game and a chance to build some momentum for the season.”
When asked what his team need to do to win, Stenta said: “We just need to continue to play with confidence and not go into our shells. It is a unique situation as we are going back to AAMI Park – you don’t often go back to play at the same away stadium and not so close together either. We need to play on that pitch confidently after what happened in Round One there and give it everything we’ve got.”
BRISBANE ROAR: McPherson – The Pressure Is All On Victory
Above: Brisbane Roar head coach Garrath McPherson speaking to the media earlier today. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Talking ahead of Brisbane Roar’s game with defending champions Melbourne Victory this weekend, head coach Garrath McPherson revealed: “We’re stinging after the last two results against Perth Glory after being in the games and creating so many chances and then losing at the end. The bitter pill has been how we finished those games. We’ve addressed the issues, we’ve worked hard and we have players returning to the team. With every game we play it is another game for us to grow together.”
McPherson outlined the impact that players gradually coming back into contention for selection is having on the Roar: “Last week was the first time this season that we’ve had all our contracted players on the grass and yesterday (Thursday) was the first time we’ve had all our contracted players able carry out un-restricted training. These players have been working so hard to get themselves back. They are super excited to be back in contention for match days and that’s a great problem for me to have in terms of selection.
“The mood in the camp is great, there’s lots of smiles and singing of Christmas carols! There’s always areas to improve in and we’re ready to get over those losses. We unpacked what happened, worked on it, and improved. The first couple of days of the week sees the pain still there from the loss, but then after analysis, everyone feels better and we’re ready to improve.”
With Melbourne Victory ahead for Brisbane this week, things are not getting easier, but the Roar head coach is positive: “We’re looking forward to it and there’s no reason for us not to think we can’t win. We believe that we can beat every single team in the competition and we are getting better every week. We have a plan, we’ve prepared well and we’re going out to take three points at home.”
“Lynn Williams is a dangerous player, but Victory have lots of dangerous players. There’s explosive players on the wings. Victory have recruited heavily, Chidiac has come in recently too, so really I’d say the pressure is all on them. The expectation is that they need to be doing exceptionally well.”
CANBERRA UNITED:WashingtonSees Nothing But Positives So Far
Above: Chelsee Washington (left) put in a player of the match standard performance for Canberra United last weekend. Here she is pictured competing against Adelaide United’s Nanako Sasaki in that match. Photo: @CanberraUnited
With Canberra United’s game with Perth Glory off this weekend due to Western Australia border restrictions, the Greens’ recent signing from the USA, Chelsee Washington reviewed her team’s showing in their heartbreaking late loss to Adelaide United last week.
“It was actually really positive after the game as we could all see a lot of strides that we’d made from Round One to Round Two. Whilst it was not the result we wanted there is lots to build on.”
Washington revealed how tough the conditions were in Adelaide: “It was a pretty dry heat and the pitch was bobbly. Not ideal, but we have to get through it at the end of the day. During warm-up and getting ready for the game it was hot. It was good that we got a couple of water breaks and that the second half saw the weather cool down.”
With Canberra having a weekend off this week meaning they can’t make an instant bid to get their first win of the season, the American sees positives in the unscheduled break.
“I think it’s actually a blessing in disguise. It helps us to re-group and re-set as well as freshening up some bodies and then get ready for the next round.
“One of the surprising things is how the opponents speak to me on the field. They are, like ‘Oh, how are you finding Australia?’ and I’m thinking ‘You’re not supposed to be saying that to me, you’re not on my team!’ It has been very competitive so far. It is good as a player to give yourself these challenges.”
“I think the game time and the experience will really help me when I go back to play in the NWSL. The different tactics and roles in midfield I am playing. In the first game, I played deeper and for the second game, I was in an advanced role. That definitely adds layers to your game and increases versatility.
MELBOURNE CITY:
Vidosic Outlines Development of His Team & Vision For ALW Growth Priorities
Above: Melbourne City head coach Rado Vidosic outlined his vision for the future of the A-League Women’s competition. Photo: Melbourne City.
Rado Vidosic delivered a heartfelt plea for the development of the A-League Women in a fascinating press conference today.
“We need a longer league season. We need to extend it. Players need to train professionally for a whole year. You can add a cup competition for women but also for under-18s. We need both. We need more of those things but definitely professional football. We have so many players playing abroad who would love to be here if there was a longer competition.
“In England, not many English players play outside of England. In the USA, not many American players play outside of the USA. They have strong national teams. This is not the case here. Longer seasons, and being professional is needed. Women’s teams must have academies as well, just like the men so we can play Asian Women’s Champions League.
“James Johnson has said he wants the ALW to be one of the top five women’s leagues in the world. If he can do all the things I said, we can do it. We need professional competition. If we don’t do it by the end of the 2023 World Cup, it could be too late.”
City’s head coach also reflected on their loss to Melbourne Victory last weekend by saying: “One game will not decide our season and we analyzed the game and there were so many positives. A few negatives of course, but we were largely happy with what happened.
“So far this season, what we did against Canberra was very positive. Last week we couldn’t maintain it in that ten or fifteen-minute spell in the second half against Melbourne Victory, but we finished strongly with a number of chances towards the end. We are very careful with the way we are working, we are trying to improve habits and that takes time. A lot of our players haven’t played for a long time or trained in professional environments before. If we can develop everyone then our season will be successful.
“It will take time. We are in a better position than we have been in the past. We’ve had eight weeks of training with the whole team and not many injuries through training or games.
In terms of how Vidosic wants his team to develop, he outlined: “We want to control the game from an attacking point of view. We want to be aggressive, force a mistake, and win the ball. Two years ago, our opponents had the ball for no longer than nine seconds at a time as we forced them into making mistakes. I am driving this team to capitalize more when we win the ball and force the opponents to only have the ball for a minimal time.”
Looking ahead to this weekend’s game against Adelaide United at AAMI Park, the City head coach said: “Well, we know (Dylan) Holmes has come back. We don’t know if she will play at all or if she is in quarantine. That will give them chance to be motivated. They will be on a good pitch with a good crowd. We don’t have any injuries or any concerns, so we are full steam ahead with no problems.”
Emma Checker: Adelaide Will Be Tough
Above: Emma Checker pictured at her media conference today. Photo: Melbourne City.
Emma Checker began by addressing City’s defeat in last weekend’s Melbourne derby. “Look, it was a disappointing result, one because we don’t like losing and two because there is always pride attached to a derby match. In saying that, despite the result, there were so many positives that we can take. It was a close game, and we had more possession. Whilst statistics don’t win games, it is something we can take into forthcoming matches. We know we are a good possession team so we need to take that forward.
“We know we had a fifteen-minute lapse in the game. We have to address that because that cost us the game. Leading into that lapse, we were in control. We have to play for the whole 90. The last five minutes showed that we had more left in the tank. It’s disappointing but moving forward we know we have to correct that.
“The mood is positive. The reason for that is that we know we played well. We know we could have done more, but we did give it a red hot crack. Melbourne Victory are the defending champions and so we know if that’s the bar, we’re OK. There is no reason why we can’t bounce back with another win tomorrow before we play them again the following week.”
Asked how she assesses the standard of the competition this year, Checker said: “I think there are more consistent teams this season, it is hard to predict how the league will turn out, but based on just our two games shows me that competition is tough.”
Focusing specifically on this weekend’s game, the Matilda said: “I know how tough Adelaide are because I’m a former Adelaide player. They go into every game believing they will win every game. We are expecting them to come out strong. We’re playing at AAMI Park – the surface is great. There is a tradeoff with the atmosphere as it is hard to feed off the crowd when it’s not full in a big stadium, but the positives outweigh that.
“Playing at the community grounds, the pitch sizes are different and it takes a few rounds to get used to. AAMI Park is a home ground and it does still give us an advantage
PERTH GLORY: Uncertainty Over Club’s ScheduleTo Be Settled Next Week
As expected, Perth Glory’s home game with Canberra United tomorrow has been postponed due to Western Australia coronavirus border restrictions.
With Perth playing away in Brisbane last weekend, the team would be subject to quarantine as would Canberra.
The club expects to receive confirmation from the APL next week about their revised playing schedule until the Western Australia state border opens fully at the beginning of February. It is thought that the club will return to action at the beginning of 2022 and be based on the east coast in a hub until February.
SYDNEY FC:SatchellExcited To See Familiar Faces
Above: Sydney FC’s Paige Satchell. Photo: NZ Football
Paige Satchell, Sydney’s 11 cap New Zealand international opened her media conference by talking about her thoughts on facing her country’s first pro women’s team this weekend.
“It’s really exciting. It’s great that finally there is a Wellington Phoenix team in the competition. It has been a long time coming. It moves the women’s game forward in New Zealand. I’m really looking forward to playing them. Every team in the competition are strong and competitive, so it will be a good match. We will have to be on our game.
“It will be wonderful to come up against familiar faces and see some Kiwis. I know some of them well. Lily Alfeld, of course, who was at Perth last season. She has been in the Ferns environment a few times so I know her well. There’s a few other girls too, who I played U20 World Cups with. They are a young team so it will be interesting to see how they do this season in a competitive league.”
In terms of Sydney’s own form, Satchell is delighted with their record of two wins from two. “It builds confidence. We’ve had a good pre-season as well as a good start in the league. We feel good going into the game. We can never be complacent and need to keep pushing ourselves in training to maintain the good results we’re getting so far.”
Both Sydney’s men’s and women’s teams are facing the Phoenix in a doubleheader at Kogarah, something which Satchell believes is a real positive: “The women’s league and men’s leagues coming closer is great. It’s a sign that women’s football is really closing the gap with men’s football. It’s great for us as it means we get more media and more crowd.”
WELLINGTON PHOENIX:Line-Up Changes & Urge To Be Disciplined
Wellington Phoenix face a tough battle against unbeaten Sydney FC on Sunday but head coach Gemma Lewis says after a couple days of soul-searching “everyone is in a really positive headspace”.
“As much as we need to move forward, we also need to still remember what that defeat felt like and try and stay away from that as much as we can,” Lewis told media on Friday afternoon.
“We need to recognize that we don’t want to be in those situations which is why we need to stick a little bit more to the game plan and be a little bit more disciplined.”
Discipline and improving their possession game have been major focuses this week. “I want to get back to a little bit more defensive security within the game like we had against Western Sydney where we were a lot harder to break down. Whereas against Newcastle I felt like we gave them too much space, we got pulled apart too much and the gaps between lines got really stretched at times through the game.”
Lewis also wants her players to be brave in possession. “I know we got punished quite a bit for some of our in possession mistakes and some sloppiness in possession in the game against Newcastle so I just want to see them bounce back from that a little bit.
“I don’t want players to hide and not try and get on the ball. We know they’re going to make mistakes and yes we’re playing against great players so sometimes we’re going to be punished for those mistakes, but I don’t want them to stop playing because they’re young. They need to see those moments, make those decisions and get used to playing under that pressure.”
Sydney FC enters round three as one of only three unbeaten teams, alongside Perth Glory and Melbourne Victory, but the Phoenix players know what to expect, having played them in pre-season.
“They know that Sydney is going to be really tough but I think having played them in a pre-season game is also helping because there’s an element of familiarity there. They know that even though they were a tough opposition then, we lost to them and they controlled quite a lot of the game, they also recognize that they’ve played those players before.”
Having fielded the same starting line-up in the first round two rounds, Gemma Lewis will be making a few tweaks to her line-up. “There will be a couple of changes this week, some because players are back fit again from injury, others because there’s a couple of niggly ones at the moment that won’t be ready for the game.”
Forward Kelli Brown is “back in the frame” after suffering an ankle injury two days out from their opening match. “She will be in the squad in some shape or form this game and we’re actually potentially even looking at if she can start. She was already ready last week, but we just wanted to make sure we had her back fully training this week.
“She’s been getting through all the training this week fully. She’s been in contact, has been in-game situations, is comfortable so we’re pretty confident to throw her straight back in now.”
Alyssa Whinham and Talitha Kramer are also pushing for a place in the starting eleven, after impressing off the bench, but forward Grace Jale may miss the match as a precaution after picking up a minor hamstring injury.
WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS:
Cannuli Reviews Sydney Loss and Reveals Self Focus Ahead Of Jets
Above: Western Sydney Wanderers head coach Catherine Cannuli speaking to the media on Thursday. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers
The Western Sydney Wanderers head coach opened by reviewing Round Two’s Sydney derby: ”Last week’s loss (in the derby to Sydney FC) was a tough one to take. The girls worked really hard from the first minute to the last. We’ve spoken about it and we need to take control of the ball more, protect it more and capitalize on possession. That’s what we’ll be focusing on in the following weeks.”
When asked about the team’s focuses in training this week Cannuli outlined: “Look, we just focus on us. We built a squad in eight weeks and it takes time to get momentum and build focus and cohesion.”
Looking ahead to her team’s clash with Newcastle Jets earlier today, the Wanderers head coach said: “It’s going to be a really tough test. There’s not one easy-beat team. In this competition, anyone can beat anyone else. We’re going into it to get three points and there’s nothing else in the back of our minds.”
Wanderers Host Afghan National Cup:
Western Sydney Wanderers will play host to the Afghan National Cup 2021, a five-day annual round-robin tournament, played at the Wanderers Football Park in Blacktown.
The Afghan National Cup 2021 comprises six women’s teams, 24 men’s teams, and eight youth teams coming from Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia to participate in competitive and inclusive football games.
Every Christmas, Afghan community members attend the annual football tournament – a festival that takes place in a different city each year. The competition was established in 2003 and later refreshed in 2014 as an opportunity to celebrate culture and promote solidarity through football. It aims to:
Raise awareness and increase participation of women from culturally and lingually diverse backgrounds in football
Promote inter-cultural connections and strengthen social fabric between various ethnic groups and broader Australian community
Engage and partner with local community and football organisations to support the event and create opportunities for player pathways, especially for female players
Promote a sense of belonging, and a feeling of having a place to build a future
Identify and showcase emerging talents in men’s and women’s football
The competition is coordinated by the Afghanistan Football Federation of Australia – a group of volunteers around Australia dedicated to promoting inclusion through their shared love of football.
After a strife-ridden year, The Afghan National Tournament will play a significant role in bringing the community together, including newly-arrived Afghan footballers, showcasing solidarity and celebrating our culture.
Tournament organiser Hussain Ramazani said he was thankful that Sydney could host the tournament this year to bring his community together.
“This tournament will be a wonderful event to celebrate our football community in what has been a very tough year for the Afghani people,” said Mr Ramazani.
“We would like to thank Western Sydney Wanderers for their support and are very grateful for the community support which will give us a very positive end to our year as we celebrate through our passion for football.”
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said hosting and helping bring to life tournaments like this is critical to the Wanderers mission.
“Being able to work with our community to host tournaments and opportunities like the Afghan Cup 2021 is incredible,” he said.
“Wanderers Football Park is a world-class venue here in Blacktown and to be able to use the Wanderers Foundation to support and help share this space with our community is a very important part of the work we do.”
Football Australia Launches Our Game To Achieve Gender Parity
Football Australia today launched Our Game, an initiative aimed at harnessing the power of football to build an inclusive and diverse game that embraces, positively influences, celebrates, and elevates women and girls.
The co-hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 presents a unique opportunity for Australian football to leverage the moment and strive to become the nation’s largest community sport to reach gender parity by 2027.
Launching the initiative, Football Australia CEO, James Johnson said: “For well over a decade now, women’s football has seen unprecedented growth and popularity in Australia. This year we celebrated the 100-year anniversary of the first recorded public women’s football match and while the women’s game has progressed significantly in the past century, we also acknowledge that there is much more we can achieve.
“In 18 months we will co-host the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand – the world’s biggest standalone women’s sporting event. We are provided with an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate our aspiration to become the centre of excellence for women’s football in Asia-Pacific, and in doing so become the first Australian sport to reach gender parity in participation.
“Our Game is our platform and Legacy ’23 is our game plan for Football Australia’s bold objective. To do this we understand the importance of us as a sport tackling head-on the barriers of awareness, accessibility, and apprehension that hold back women and girls from fully participating in football.”
Our Game will work at addressing perceptions and hesitations of women in football, enhancing visibility and awareness of the various avenues of involvement, celebrating accomplishments, and providing practical resources to facilitate participation.
Following the initial launch, Football Australia and its Member Federations will deliver a program of club and individual resources, media activities, and community events to present opportunities for women and girls of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to be part of football. It will also be the avenue to build excitement ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023.
More information can be found via the website: ourgameaus.com.au and via @OurGameAus on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Denise Duffy, an admin of the Wellington Phoenix Facebook group ‘Flight of the Nix’, has been following Kiwi women’s football for quite a whiledespite only moving to New Zealand this year. For our latest #MidweekDub Feature, she spoke to Impetus editor Ben Gilby about how fan culture is growing for the Phoenix’s new A-League Women’s team despite them not being able to play a home game until February at the earliest(15/12/21).
Above: The Flight of the Nix Supporters Group Logo. Artwork provided by: Denise Duffy.
Whilst Denise is still relatively new to Wellington, women’s football is something she has passionately cared about for a long time. Therefore, when the Phoenix finally entered the A-League Women this season, she was keen to get onboard.
“I only moved to New Zealand in July. My passion for women’s soccer was cultivated in America. When the Phoenix made the announcement about the team, I was on it! Women’s soccer is exciting. The athletes are fascinating and approachable. I wanted to get involved right away.
Above: Denise Duffy of ‘Flight of the Nix’. Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy.
“I will say that I’ve been following and critiquing New Zealand soccer since 2015. My spouse is a Kiwi and we always knew we would move to New Zealand. This nation’s soccer is my future. I have a philosophy that we all need to grow women’s football both exactly where you are and also worldwide.
“From a distance, New Zealand was the federation I had my eye on. They went through some dark times and I wasn’t shy about letting them know that things could be better. I had posted that I wanted to start a supporters group for the women side only, because, you know, women are fabulous. Instead, I was asked to be a Facebook group admin for one already established with the men’s side. It was a real dilemma. Start a women’s supporters group from scratch or jump into a club-wide one.
“I decided that the actual challenge, the beautiful work, was to see how many men’s football supporters could become fans of women’s football. So I paired with a smaller group. It was willing to rebrand and actively think about inclusion. We became the Flight of the Nix! Yes, it’s a riff off of the TV show the Flight of the Conchords. Light, bright, and fun.
“Blake Forbes Gentle is a founder of this group, he’s wheelchair-bound. Jonathan Hagger has long-term knowledge of the Nix and women’s football. We are purposely adding extra content on the women’s game in our group. I think Nix fans are enjoying the new journey.”
Above: Blake Forbes-Gentle – founder of the Flight of the Nix. Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy.
Getting a team from New Zealand into the senior level of women’s football in Australia has been a long journey. Denise explained that she feels that the country didn’t know what it was missing out on.
“Having pro soccer here will change the country. New Zealand is such an athletic nation to begin with. There is a natural nose for sport here. Having a rhythm of women’s pro soccer in the A-League Women gives the country a regular football focus. New Zealand needs this. They will be co-hosting the world cup in 2023. It will be a richer experience if they already understand the game.
I know that as a fan, I’ve been tweeting to and at as many people as possible to make it happen for years now. It’s been excruciating to want something like this and not see it happen. The real work has been done by so many people at NZ Football and at Wellington Phoenix. I am super grateful and proud that they made it happen. High five to them.”
In terms of the standard of the competition and the opportunities, Denise sees nothing but positives. “In the past, if you were good at football in New Zealand, you had to leave the country and go to Europe or America. I find this heartbreaking. Not everyone has the financial resources or emotional support to do this.
“Having an A-League Women team here gives a path for Kiwis to play pro football in their own nation. Domestic stars can emerge here at home. As far as the league, it’s embracing itself as a discovery and developmental league. If it wants to attract top talent, then I have a long list of things they need to do.
“One factor is that in the past, the W-League and the NWSL in America were like yin and yang. Athletes could exhaust themselves and play in both leagues. The NWSL season got longer so now the players generally aren’t doing double duty or are only coming here on short-term loan deals like Lynn Williams.
Above: Jonathan Hagger – another key member of the Flight of the Nix crew! Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy.
“Also, the members of Matildas, in particular, needed a less heavy schedule. Many went to Europe. Unfortunately, we are now we are stuck watching them at 3am. Not really a way of life for me. I like live matches. What is exciting about the A-League Women is that I am learning new names and faces of so many future stars. Also, some of my favourite athletes are there, such as Rebekah Stott and Kyra Cooney-Cross. It’s a league I want to jump into and follow. Having a local team in it makes it feel like my league.”
With New Zealand waiting so long for a pro women’s team, it is hugely frustrating that, due to Covid restrictions, Wellington Phoenix won’t be able to play any home games until February at the earliest. Denise highlighted the impact that this has on building a supporter base.
“Obviously we want to see live pro women’s soccer in New Zealand as soon as possible. We are ready. Let me take a step back though. There’s a spirituality to New Zealand about new beginnings that I wish the team could experience more of. The Maori culture here weaves in and through sport. It’s a bit of a bummer that the team is abroad. Nothing like a stadium experience to launch a team. We are waiting for this. It’s out of our control.
“When it does happen, there might be a few tears in the crowd. I will say that I was at a watch party with a local football club here in Taupo and it was a blast. Also, our members in the Flight of the Nix group send weekly words of support before the match to assistant coach Natalie Lawrence. It’s the closest thing we can do to cheering them on in a stadium. I am hoping we bring it as fans in Wellington as we come together for their first match in 2022.”
It took a long time for the club to gain shirt sponsorship and then it came after a direct appeal from club officials. Denise believes though that once the team is back playing in New Zealand and the corporate world can see what the team and competition have to offer, the club’s financial position will become far more positive.
Above: The Flight of the Nix group’s watch party for the club’s first-ever A-League Women game against Western Sydney Wanderers. Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy.
Women’s football is addictive. A billion people watched the last Women’s World Cup in 2019. New Zealand is just starting to understand the power of the women’s game. These women sell the game with a purer brand of football. What’s the secret? The future of the league depends on broadcast quality. Have high-definition cameras, with many angles, and knowledgeable announcers and people will watch.
“As a sponsor, I would demand this for every match. Now, there are so many opportunities that come with partnering with the Pheonix. The lead sponsor, the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport is in the driver’s seat. I would use the magic of these athletes to grow with you. They are trendsetters, even at this young age. Have leadership conferences with them at your facility. Get them to understand your mission and see how they can help. Sponsors at all levels should cultivate this relationship with women athletes. It will serve them well.
“Attendance is also a big moneymaker. When they come back home, I am hoping for some marketing hype, especially in Wellington. There are plenty of football fans there. The yellow and black runs deep.”
With the club’s relatively late entry into the competition for 2021/22, head coach Gemma Lewis had a slightly uphill battle in putting together a team as some players she may otherwise have been interested in had already got fixed up with other sides, but Denise sees only positives in the team’s two games so far.
Above: Denise only sees positives for the Phoenix. Photo supplied by: Denise Duffy,
“What I have learned so far is that the Phoenix brand of football is fearless. They challenge. It is also surprisingly poised for such a young group. I want this mindset to continue. I loved it. They got a bit tentative in their second match and were outmuscled by more experienced players. They scored though. That’s big for their mentality. They can compete in this league. The biggest strength of the team is that they hired the right coaches. I’ve seen this flubbed up again and again in the NWSL. For so many reasons, Gemma Lewis and Natalie Lawrence were solid choices.”
In terms of what would be seen as a success for Wellington Phoenix’s first season in the A-League Women, Denise can see big plusses already.
“I believe in these coaches. I believe in these young women. The thing about women’s football is that anything can happen. We have a strong keeper and leader in Lily Alfeld. I’m as optimistic as they come.
“The Kiwi fanbase seems to be a patient one. Most were quite thrilled to get a draw in their opening game against Western Sydney Wanderers. They also see the long view of this season. It’s an achievement to be out on the pitch representing the Wellington Phoenix. If I am being honest, I’d like to see an accumulation of points throughout the year. I suppose it’s the American in me that always sees a winning path, even if it to others it’s unrealistic.”
Find out more about ‘The Flight of the Nix’ by visiting their Facebook page by clicking here
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
One of Adelaide United’s biggest names from last season is back in red. Ben Gilby heard from both Dylan Holmes and head coach Adrian Stenta(15/12/21).
Above: Dylan Holmes pictured on her debut for Australia in the Netherlands earlier this year. Photo: Football Australia.
Adelaide United today announced the return of midfielder, Dylan Holmes for the whole of the 2021/22 A-League Women season.
The 24-year-old re-joins the Club after a stint with Swedish outfit BK Häcken where she accumulated 15 appearances across all competitions.
Above: Dylan Holmes in action for Swedish side BK Häcken this season. Photo: Mia Eriksson.
Holmes previously amassed 41 games and scored three goals with the Reds, and her sensational 2020/21 campaign earned a move to Sweden back in March 2021.
The central midfielder also later received her first Matildas cap in April against the Netherlands.
Speaking after re-signing with Adelaide, Holmes said: “I’m really looking forward to be returning to Adelaide United and working with Adrian (Stenta) and the girls.
“This is my hometown club and where I’ve enjoyed playing some of my best football, so I’m really excited to be returning.
Above: Dylan battling for possession for Adelaide United against Sydney FC last season. Photo: Adelaide United.
“The team has made a solid start to the season and I’m confident I can really contribute and make a positive impact.”
Adelaide United Liberty A-League Head Coach, Adrian Stenta, said: “We’re extremely happy to have Dylan back at the Club. “She is a brilliant player and her addition certainly bolsters our squad.
“Dylan brings a lot of quality to our side because she is technically very sound, works hard on and off the field to improve her game, and has immense leadership qualities.
“The experiences she has gained playing abroad and being with the Matildas this past year has undoubtedly helped only further her development.”
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
impetusfootball.org 