Above: Pride Park goalscorer Hannah Kwiatek in action. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
By Boot Room (15/2/22).
For the second successive League game, Pride Park hosted Sandiacre Town at the newly named Moorways Sports Village, welcoming back several players that missed the previous encounter. There was, however, another casualty to add to the list of those missing with Hannah Roberts sitting this one out, joining Summer Evans, and long-term absentees Jess Page and Janine Wardman.
Although the pitch was in very good condition, considering the recent rainfall, it was inevitably very soft underfoot which would be energy-sapping so, because of that and the cold wind, the hosts made full use of their rolling subs with regular changes to ensure the players stayed as fresh as possible, and didn’t hang around too long on the touchline. There was a risk this might prove disruptive, but the squad is flexible and adaptable and it was preferable to risking players getting cold and incurring muscle injuries.
Pride Park were playing into the wind in the first half and made a good start, almost taking the lead within the first minute, as Lottie Bryan fed the ball to Hannah Kwiatek in an advanced position on the left. Kwiatek hit a square pass across goal behind the defence and along the six-yard line, which was turned onto the post by a defender with the goalkeeper stranded. The ball rebounded across goal and just needed turning in at the far post – but a defender reacted quickest and was able to put the ball out for a corner.
After that initial chance, both teams had a few glimpses of goal – for Park, there was some good combination play down the right involving Annie Laight, and the pace of Lottie Bryan and Maja Znamirowska was a constant threat, but for the most part, both defences held out well. Just after the half-hour the ball broke to Hannah Kwiatek about eight yards out from goal and on the angle, but her instinctive left-foot shot was hit straight at the keeper.
Three minutes later Park were awarded a free kick on the left, about midway in the Sandiacre half. Tash Allderidge took the kick and lofted the ball into the area just outside the far post. Her kick eluded the defensive line and was met by Hannah Kwiatek, drifting in behind the defence to head home from around five yards out.
Above: Tash Allderidge fires in a pass for Pride Park. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
It was a collector’s item – The Pride don’t score many headers and it was Kwiatek’s first goal in the League this season.
At half-time, it remained 1-0 to Pride Park. The wind seemed to drop, at least initially, at the start of the second half. As the game wore on Park were finding it hard to get and hold on to the ball, making it difficult to build up periods of possession to give the defence a breather, and we were opting to hit the ‘out’ ball for strikers to chase a little more than we’d have liked.
Whilst this was at times effective and did lead to some decent opportunities, Lottie Bryan, Maja Znamirowska, and Annie Laight with shots wide or at the keeper, it also resulted in possession being given away when the ball was overhit or the pass forward lacked accuracy. At the same time, Sandiacre started to have more possession and were building promising attacks, but Pride Park’s back five defended well throughout, showing resilience and providing very little in the way of clear cut chances – Jade Howell in the Pride Park goal had a few shots to deal with but those on target were within reach and her positioning and handling in difficult conditions was really good.
It was doubly disappointing, therefore for the home side to concede an equalizer from a corner in the final minute. Having defended corners well throughout the game, Park failed to cut out a waist height corner from the left – it was missed by the front defender, and an attempted clearance was sliced in by the second defender for an own goal. It was one of those that can happen, but frustrating for everyone, after being so close to a clean sheet and three points.
It shouldn’t overshadow what had been a battling performance in difficult conditions, however. It was also good to end a run of four defeats for The Pride and, on balance, a draw was probably a fair result.
Next week Pride Park travel to Mickleover (ko 1.30pm).
Above: Maja Markovski speaking to the media today. Photo: Melbourne Victory.
Ahead of tomorrow’s huge clash between Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC, Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Victory forward Maja Markovski (15/2/22).
Melbourne Victory’s 20-year-old striker Maja Markovski is looking forward to take on A-League Women leaders Sydney FC tomorrow, with the opportunity of becoming only the second player all season to score a goal against them.
“They have only conceded one goal all season, so I definitely see it as a challenge. The girls and I are determined to go for it!” she smiled.
Jeff Hopkins’ side comes into the game in strong form, looking to be hitting their peak at the right time.
“We’ve improved in areas which, earlier on in the season we had struggled with. The test now comes with playing Sydney FC and I think that will be a really good game,” Markovski said.
“It will be a game where we are going to have to remain patient and take chances when they come. Last time it came down to the 120th minute (in the Grand Final). If it goes to the end this time as well, so be it!”
The striker highlighted that she feels Kyra Cooney-Cross and Alex Chidiac can be the key players in threatening Sydney.
“Kyra brings a lot out wide. She’s really fast and can whip some good balls in as well as cutting in and shooting. Not only that but with ‘Chids’ cutting in from behind and getting it, they will be a threat against Sydney.”
With Victory losing Claudia Bunge on international duty, another centre-back reshuffle is required. Markovski outlined the present thinking behind how that will go.
Above: Maja Markovski (left) – confident about Melbourne Victory’s chances against Sydney FC tomorrow. Photo: Con Chronis/AAP PHOTOS
“We’ll probably have AJ (Amy Jackson) in there. She’s played a few games there before and done really well for us. We also have Brooke (Hendrix) there too as well who has added experience, so we should be OK.”
The 20-year-old outlined the huge respect that she has for Sydney FC, believing that there are very few weaknesses in their team.
“They are really disciplined in the back, their midfield is quality and their forwards are super dangerous. They have quality across the whole park.”
Looking beyond this season, Markovski revealed that she is weighing up options of where to play once the A-League Women campaign is over. Despite saying that no decisions have been made, she asserted: “Anywhere in Europe would be nice, to be honest.”
Above: Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis, who has extended his spell at the club for a third season. Photo: Perth Glory.
After several days of speculation, Perth Glory has confirmed that the club’s Head Coach Alex Epakis has signed a one-year contract extension which will see him remain in charge for the 2022-23 Season.
Currently in his second year at the helm, the 30-year-old has overseen a remarkable campaign in which his side has established themselves as serious Finals contenders despite being based in Sydney since the turn of the year and having to play all bar one of their fixtures away from home.
Having recorded five wins and three draws from 11 games, Glory currently sits just three points outside the top four, with three regular-season games left to play.
Epakis has also established an impressive track record over the last two seasons for handing first-team opportunities to young players, many of whom have developed into consistent performers at Liberty A-League level.
The former Sydney University Head Coach is thrilled to have pledged his future to the club and is confident that his squad will continue to evolve and improve throughout the remainder of this season and onwards into 2022-23.
“I am really excited to extend my stay with Perth Glory,” he said.
Above: The sense of togetherness that Epakis has instilled in the Perth Glory team is clear to see. Photo:
“I am really passionate about the club and am wholeheartedly invested in the entire playing group and the support staff. The opportunity to continue to work alongside a fantastic group of committed players and people is something that really drives me on a daily basis and I am determined to help the group achieve success.
“As a team, we have faced and overcome some difficult moments, but we are focused on a clear vision. I am well supported by an excellent staff and together we are committed to ensuring that the team finishes this current season as strongly as possible and to continuing our growth and success into next season.
“Finally, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Glory Owner and Chairman Tony Sage, CEO Tony Pignata, and Football Operations Manager Terry McFlynn, for their ongoing support.
“I appreciate that they have trust in my work and vision and I sincerely thank them for the opportunity to represent the club.”
Pignata, meanwhile, was quick to acknowledge the impact Epakis has had upon the club and believes that he has the potential to help re-establish Glory among the Liberty A-League’s most consistently successful clubs.
“Alex has done an excellent job this year under the most trying of circumstances,” he said.
“He has successfully reshaped the squad and we have certainly come a long way since last year. It has been incredibly tough for the players and staff to spend so long on the road, but Alex has kept them motivated and focused and that has been reflected by some of the hugely-impressive performances they have produced this year.
“We are confident that he has the ability to use the positives from this season as a springboard for further success in 2022-23.”
The weekend’s Round 11 of the Liberty A-League Women was, arguably one of the greatest in the competition’s history. There was the historic first-ever win for Wellington Phoenixand a record defeat for Brisbane Roar. If that wasn’t enough there were 23 goals in five matches. Impetus’ writing team for the competition, Kieran Yap, Kris Goman, and Ben Gilby reveal who caught their eyes this week (14/2/22).
PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
Kieran: Fiona Worts. Kyra Cooney-Cross would have won this any other week with her performance against Western Sydney Wanderers, but Worts scored five goals in a must-win game.
Kris: It’s Kyra Cooney-Cross. A goal, one actual assist, two non-accredited assists. She produced an incredible performance. Her class stood out like a sore thumb this week.
Above: What a performance. Two of our three writers plumped for Kyra Cooney-Cross ahead of five-goal Fiona Worts as player of the week. Photo: Kris Goman.
Ben: I was badly torn between Fiona Worts and Kyra Cooney-Cross this week. In the end, I went for Cooney-Cross. A sensational individual performance, scoring a goal, and involved in three others. Worts did score five, and in any other week would have taken the honours from me, but such was Adelaide’s team performance, they would have blown Brisbane away regardless of how many Worts scored.
COACH OF THE WEEK:
Kieran: Wellington Phoenix’s Gemma Lewis. It was more than just a heart-warming story. Wellington Phoenix defended well, attacked clinically, and ran relentlessly. They were able to make up for the injury to Kate Taylor and extended their lead even without her. This was an absorbing match and a brilliant win by a well-coached side that will likely destroy us all in years to come.
Kris: It has to be Gemma Lewis. For bringing those girls through to their first historic win. For keeping on believing. For actually getting it done and done impressively.
Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis captured during a media conference. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
Ben: Adrian Stenta would have taken the award from me in any other week for the way he set up his team’s relentless ultra-high press to unsettle the Brisbane defence from the off. But, you can’t look beyond Gemma Lewis. At the end of a week when she revealed a number of her players are now so homesick that they are actively counting down the days until they return to New Zealand, for them to produce that performance, and get that result was just sensational. And so deserved.
EVENT OF THE WEEK:
Kieran: Mie Leth Jans being unaware in her half-time TV interview that Perth was winning at half time on Thursday. It was funny but also typical of a player who seems committed and focussed on the current and next passage of play. Perth could be 1-0 up 1-1 or 3-0 down and she would play with the same commitment and enthusiasm.
Kris: The disallowed goal at the end of the Newcastle Jets v Sydney FC match. It set the crowd alight. I haven’t rewatched it and because I was photographing and didn’t really see it, so I can’t cast judgment yet, but the crowd thought it was a goal and really wanted to break the clean sheets record Sydney had and grab a point. The officials really copped a booing leaving the field. I love the Newcastle supporters and this moment really brought them alive. As well as all the players. Love a bit of controversy.
Ben: Wellington winning, Adelaide smashing eight goals at Brisbane, Fiona Worts scoring five goals, Kyra Cooney-Cross absolutely bossing it, late drama at Newcastle Jets. Where to begin? What a round! One of the greatest ever so for me, Round 11 was the event. Wow.
Above: Catarina Macario scores for Olympique Lyonnais in the 38th minute. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
By Jean-Pierre Thiesset (14/2/22)
Two games were played on Friday as games cancelled due to COVID were rescheduled.
Paris Saint-Germain at home won 5-0 against Dijon. It was an easy game for Paris SG which completely dominated with 71% possession, 19 shots with 10 on target. Again Marie-Antoinette Katoto scored twice and extended her tally as PSG’s all-time record goalscorer to 134 goals. Goals for Paris SG from Grace Geyoro (3), Marie-Antoinette Katoto (15, 42), Sandy Baltimore (58), Sara Däbritz (70).
Olympique Lyonnais won 8-0 at home against Soyaux. This game was almost too easy for Lyon with the exception of the opening 20 minutes.
Sonia Bompastor, Lyon coach, was missing most of her key players for this game, and this is probably what explain that the first 20 minutes were not so easy. Injured were: Amandine Henry, Damaris Egurrola, Daniële Van De Donk, Christiane Endler, Amel Majri; Sick: Delphine Cascarino, and Perle Morroni; still coming back from injury: Sara Björk Gunnarsdottir and suspended: Eugénie Le Sommer.
Above: Laurine Baga, 18 yers old, in action during the game against Soyaux. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
So, in this game we saw the young players from Lyon: To start the game, Selma Bacha (21 years old), Emelyne Laurent (23), Inès Benyahia (18), Melvine Malard (21). Coming on as subs: Alice Sombath (18), Laurine Baga (18), Kysha Sylla (18), Celia Bensalem (17). This young team largely dominated the game (62% possession, 27 shots with 15 on target, eight corners). Inès Benyahia scored her first goal in D1 Arkema on her debut, Ada Hegerberg scored three goals and Catarina Macario scored twice. Goals for Lyon from Ada Hegerberg (19, 52, 70), Catarina Macario (38, 86), Griedge MBock (45+1), Melvine Malard (71), Inès Benyahia (77).
Above: AFC Wimbledon celebrate yesterday at Carshalton. Photo: Glyn Roberts.
The Dons ran out eventual winners at Carshalton Athletic on Sunday in a game that was overshadowed by a serious injury sustained by the Stevenage keeper in the first 10 minutes.
Wimbledon went into the game after last Sunday’s incredible penalty shoot-out victory away to Portsmouth to secure their place in the semi-final of the FAWNL Plate. With second place Billericay Town not playing, the Dons knew a victory would further close the gap to the top two.
The hosts got off to a perfect start when Katie Stanley opened the scoring after only nine minutes. However whilst the Dons were celebrating the Stevenage keeper stayed down having sustained a shoulder injury in the process of attempting a save. There was then a 30-minute break in play whilst she received treatment before being transferred to hospital. When play restarted the rest of the first half was a scrappy affair with neither team having any clear-cut chances.
In the second half, the Dons started in a much stronger fashion and doubled their lead just before the hour mark as Ashlee Hincks continued her scoring streak. Wimbledon continued their dominance and kept searching for more goals. However, a well-disciplined Stevenage side dug in and made life difficult for the Dons and prevented them from extending their advantage.
El Sueno Tequila Player of The Match Angel Fowler said “The main thing was we got the win today, it was not our best performance either but we certainly played our game and did what we needed to do to get three points”
First-team coach Andy May reviewed the game saying: “It was a difficult one to be fair looking back at it, we didn’t set our standards and the intensity we wanted to work at but at the end of the day it’s three points so it’s a pleasing thing but I think there is more from us than that performance today.”
Adelaide United have announced the launch of the inaugural A-Leagues Pride Game, in conjunction with major event partners McDonald’s and Flinders University, on Saturday, 26 February 2022.
Adelaide United will be the first A-Leagues Club and the first professional football team to host a Pride Game in Australia with the women’s team kicking proceedings off against Melbourne Victory, before the men host Central Coast Mariners.
Pride Cup will be partnering with the Club to help facilitate the gameday in what is a celebration of the LGBTI+ community and promotion of inclusivity.
Above: Dylan Holmes pictured in the special shirt that Adelaide United will wear for the game. Photo provided to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Players from the Club’s women’s and men’s teams will both be wearing rainbow names and numbers on the back of their playing jerseys in a show of support and solidarity for the LGBTI+ community.
The game will feature performances by cabaret performer Issie Heart (they/them) and Qwire, Adelaide’s LGBTI+ inclusive choir.
Adelaide United Chief Executive Officer, Nathan Kosmina (he/him), said: “This is an extremely proud day for Adelaide United and the wider football community. Through football, we want to continue to provide a safe space that is welcoming for all people to come and attend matches at Coopers Stadium. We want people to know that it doesn’t matter what your sexuality, ethnicity, gender, or socio-economic background is – you are always welcome at Adelaide United.”
Above: Adelaide United defender Josh Cavello. Photoprovided by Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Adelaide United defender, Josh Cavallo (he/him), said: “This is a significant day for myself, members of the LGBTI+ community, and Adelaide United. Adelaide United is an incredibly inclusive environment and is like one big family. They’ve been extremely supportive of me since I arrived in Adelaide, and I couldn’t be prouder what the Club together with Pride Cup have organized.”
Adelaide United defender, Isabel Hodgson (she/her), said: “This Pride Game will certainly help raise awareness and advocate for inclusivity. As Captain of our women’s team, it’s really exciting to be a part of something that celebrates diversity and welcomes all walks of life.”
“I’m confident this game will have an impact on local clubs and make the cultures of dressing rooms right around the country more inviting and inclusive.”
Above: Adelaide United captain Isabel Hodgson pictured in support of the initiative, Photo provided to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Pride Cup Chief Executive Officer, James Lolicato (he/him), said: “This is an exciting moment for Australian football and we are delighted to partner with Adelaide United for this meaningful occasion.
“78% of LGBTI+ people don’t feel safe as spectators at sporting events, this is a huge opportunity to show LGBTI+ people that football can be a safe and welcoming place for all. This is about more than just visibility though. We will also be holding education sessions, empowering the Club to become leaders in equity and inclusivity.”
United Pride merchandise will also be available at Coopers Stadium and in-store, with proceeds going to Pride Cup, while there will be a range of rainbow stadium assets, from corner flags and safe smoke to signage.
Tickets for the doubleheader are on sale and you can purchase your seats here.
Above: Adelaide United A-League Men defender Javi Lopez pictured in the club’s special shirt for the game. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United.
Above: Adelaide United celebrate during a sensational performance at Brisbane today. Photo: Adelaide United.
By Ben Gilby(13/2/22)
Adelaide United put in a sensational performance to put Brisbane Roar to the sword in some style at Moreton Daily Stadium.
This incredible win, earned courtesy of five goals from Fiona Worts, in conjunction with Finals rivals Perth Glory suffering a 4-0 loss to Melbourne City, puts the South Australian side in the driving seat to claim a top-four place for the first time.
Roar were forced onto the back foot by an extreme high press from the visitors which gave Adrian Stenta’s side the momentum from the earliest of stages.
Adelaide took only 13 minutes to take the lead. Emily Hodgson was fouled by Mariel Hecher in the centre circle. Brisbane looked to have dealt with the danger when Natalie Tathem played the ball comfortably back to her goalkeeper Mia Bailey.
Unfortunately, the 17-year-old custodian’s first touch was too heavy and then was forced into a rushed clearance by Worts which led to a weak pass straight into the path of Chelsie Dawber. The locally produced striker in her current form did not need a second invitation to slot home.
Above: Celebrations for Adelaide Untied. Photo: Adelaide United.
With 20 minutes on the clock, Hecher had a great chance, running through from the left after exchanging wings and producing a shot that Adelaide keeper Annalie Grove blocked.
Adelaide responded well with 23 minutes gone, and forced back-to-back corners for the second time in quick succession. Emily Condon’s ball from the left curled in viciously on the strong breeze. Kayla Sharples got up highest to launch a header, but it was Roar’s Hollie Palmer who deflected the ball past her own goalkeeper for 2-0.
It took just a further 10 minutes for Worts to make the most of another unfortunate moment for Bailey in the Brisbane goal. Dylan Holmes, running centrally played in Dawber on the right. The striker’s low shot across the box was initially claimed by Bailey, but she couldn’t hold on as the ball went straight to Worts who couldn’t miss from four yards.
It was very nearly four shortly afterwards as Reona Omiya found Dawber, but her shot rolled agonizingly wide of the left-hand post.
Two minutes before the break it was 4-0. The move started at the back with Sharples initiating a move with a long ball towards the right which eventually found Isabel Hodgson. She beat Anna Margraf and played in Dawber who put in a superb low ball across for Worts who skilfully directed the ball into the far corner of the net.
Above: Five goal Fiona Worts (left) and Chelsie Dawber – who are now positioned third and second respectively on the leading goalscorers charts. Photo: Adelaide United.
Any hopes that Brisbane may have had that Adelaide would take their foot off the gas in the second half were quickly dispelled as United continued to attack.
Ten minutes into the second period, Condon pulled a corner to the near post which held up in the wind, and Matilda McNamara got up to direct a back header into the far corner of the net.
Just when the Roar may have thought things couldn’t get any worse, they conceded again within 120 seconds as Worts completed her hat-trick.
Katrina Gorry had the ball taken off her in a robust challenge from Holmes who advanced towards the box and curled a delicious pass with the inside of her foot into the path of Worts who ran in at the back post to crash home.
A third goal in four minutes then followed, but fortunately for the home fans, this one went their way.
Above: Despite the best efforts of Katrina Gorry (right), Brisbane were on the receiving end of their record defeat. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
Gorry ran onto the ball in the centre, just outside the box beat McNamara and pulled the ball across the box for Shea Connors to sidefoot home from close range.
Roar rallied briefly with Connors seemingly popping up everywhere with the tempo picking up a level once more. Ayesha Norrie hit a long-range effort which Grove gathered on the bounce.
Adelaide rode out the storm and responded in style with a seventh. Condon released Worts and she drove sensationally past Jessie Rasschaert and lifted the ball over the diving Bailey who, in the process injured herself and had to leave the field of play. Isabella Shuttleworth came off the bench to make her A-League Women debut.
The chances continued to rain in on the Brisbane goal. Dawber raced along the right, beating Margraf and found Condon who saw her effort crash back off the far post. The rebound landed kindly for Worts who drove a shot that Shuttleworth held superbly.
Above: Fiona Worts – who will remember this performance for life. Photo: Adelaide United.
With 25 minutes to play, Adelaide hit their eighth as Gorry lost possession to Omiga. Possession was then provided to Worts. The striker played in Dawber who was wrapped up by the Roar, only for the ball to find its way for Worts to fire across Shuttleworth.
The final word in the goalscoring stakes went Roar’s way as Connors grabbed her second.
Brisbane won a free kick on the right-hand side. Gorry’s fierce effort was too hot for Grove to handle and she could only parry the ball into Connors’ path inside the six-yard box to score.
Adelaide ended the afternoon on the front foot still with Worts having an effort blocked in search of her sixth goal.
Above: Adelaide United celebrate after the game. Photo: Adelaide United.
There are tough questions for Brisbane Roar head coach Garrath McPherson to answer now. His team are not playing badly and have some superb creativity within their ranks, but they have a habit of conceding far too many goals and this thorough outclassing is not something Roar fans are used to.
Above: Princess Ibini celebrates after scoring the winning goal. Photo: Sydney FC.
In the last game of a massive weekend of football, Sydney FC travelled to play Newcastle Jets. The only team to score against the defending premiers named a full-strength side for the first time in weeks. Sydney FC welcomed back Remy Siemsen and Cortnee Vine to their attack.
Newcastle came into this game with a mathematical hope of making the finals, but they would need to win their remaining games and tests do not come much tougher than Sydney FC.
It was the league’s top side that had the first attack. Mackenzie Hawkesby lined up a strike from long range and Claire Coelho did very well to push over the bar.
From the resulting corner, Nat Tobin’s header missed the target, but it was a threatening start from Sydney FC.
Lucy Johnson had Newcastle’s first chance. A Sophie Harding cross was not cleared and Johnson pounced on the loose ball. She thrashed her right foot at the ball and hit it well, hard and low but it fizzed wide of the post.
It was an open, attacking game and Princess Ibini opened to scoring with a trademark strike.
She picked up the ball in midfield, exchanged passes with Siemsen, and then cut inside onto her right foot. From there the result seemed inevitable. This is Ibini’s favourite place to shoot from and she hit a brilliant shot into the back of the net. Coelho dived and stretched but could do nothing to stop the goal.
Marie Dølvik answered with a strong run on the left before crossing low into the box. Nobody was on hand to tap it home when any touch would have done.
Above: Marie Dølvik put in another strong performance for Newcastle Jets. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
The play continued end-to-end and Ibini again was the main danger. Her acceleration into the box earned Sydney FC a penalty kick. To the delight of the home crowd, Coelho was able to save Siemsen’s shot.
Ibini continued to threaten and created some space for herself on the wing. Her shot was optimistic but forced a save from Coelho who was proving hard to beat.
Newcastle were attacking without forging any clear chances but were leaving space in defence. Cortnee Vine tried to take advantage with a long-range strike but it whistled over the bar.
The speculative but impressive efforts continued after halftime. Nat Tobin hit the crossbar from just inside halfway. Coelho looked to have it covered but it underlined the threat that Sydney FC pose from anywhere on the field.
Rachel Lowe underlined this with a free-kick that forced the best from Coelho. The Jets goalkeeper made a diving athletic save to keep the score at 1-0.
Marie Dølvik looked the most dangerous for Newcastle. Her pace on the wing and willingness to shoot kept Sydney alert. A stepover and cut back made some space and her shot forced a strong save from Jada Whyman.
Tara Andrews was reinstated to the starting lineup, and her hold-up play was proving her value to the team. She would have been disappointed not to score when a lofted ball into the box fell to her feet.
Above: Newcastle Jets’ Sophie Harding looks to win a header under pressure from Sydney FC goalkeeper Jada Whyman. Photo: Newcastle Jets.
She focussed on directing her volley and Whyman was able to save easily. It was the sort of chance she rarely misses, and Sydney hardly ever give up.
Sydney had control of the midfield and were able to create chances almost at will. Ibini continued to torment the defence and Rachel Lowe had a few attempts on goal. But the Jets defence were staying focussed, and Coelho was in excellent form.
As the match came to a close, Newcastle brought off both Marie Dølvik and Tara Andrews. It seemed that they were settling for a close loss and re-focussing on the next round of matches. However, Sophie Harding very nearly snatched an equalizer. Her half volley from the edge of the box brought a diving save from Whyman.
Then, three minutes into stoppage time at the end of the game the drama came. Newcastle earned a corner, their goalkeeper Claire Coelho came up for it and Taryn King’s shot deflected off her and bobbled into the net.
The Jets players and fans erupted into celebration but the referee spotted a foul. Coelho had jumped early and was judged to have fouled Whyman.
The goal was disallowed and an entertaining match ended in dramatic and slightly disappointing fashion.
It was a brave call from the referee, but the crowd went through the full range of emotions in the space of seconds.
Above: Sydney FC’s returning Matilda Cortnee Vine (left) takes on Newcastle Jets’ Gema Simon.
Newcastle will remain outside of the top four with their chances dwindling. But as always, they played a very watchable, and entertaining style of football. They missed three very gettable chances on goal that they would have expected to bury.
Sydney FC continue toward an undefeated season. Princess Ibini’s had her best game for the season and are only a couple of wins from securing the premiership.
This game had quality, drama, and controversy at Number Two Sports Ground. It was an exhilarating (if slightly disappointing) end to an amazing round of football.
Speaking after the game, Sydney’s goalscorer Princess Ibini said: “I just saw the opportunity to take the shot tonight and there’s no secret to the strike, just practice and plenty of training.”
On the disallowed goal, she felt: “It’s ref’s decision, so whatever she says it’s her call, but I think she made the right decision.”
Sydney FC head coach Ante Juric felt his side was somewhat fortunate to escape with a win, regardless of the disallowed goal. “I thought it was a foul, but Newcastle actually did well, so we were probably lucky to get a win.”
Above: Melbourne City’s Rhianna Pollicina involved in a tangle against Perth Glory today. Photo: Melbourne City.
At Central Coast Stadium, Gosford, NSW.
By Ben Gilby (13/2/22)
Melbourne City claimed a vital win which makes them massive favourites to finish in the top two.
This defeat, and the impact on their goal difference means that Perth Glory may now have to potentially beat both Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC to make the top four themselves.
Playing their second game in four days, Perth Glory made three changes. Sofia Sakalis came in for Demi Kouliakis who dropped to the bench, and Leena Khamis came in as a substitute to replace suspended Susan Phonsongkham. Courtney Newbon replaced Morgan Aquino, who had a fine game on Thursday, in goal.
Melbourne City retained the same sixteen-player squad from last week with Tyla-Jay Vlajnic recording her 50th game for the club.
The Glory started comfortably in possession, imposing a patient, passing game on City. The Western Australians were probing and waiting for the right moment to play in the final ball.
This, plus their successful use of a high press kept the Sky Blues under the pump with Rado Vidosic’s side coughing up possession in their own half on too many occasions in the opening 10 minutes.
With two minutes on the clock, Perth created the first opportunity as Cyera Hintzen played in strike partner Sofia Sakalis on the edge of the box. Melissa Barbieri held on to the shot.
City’s uncomfortable start was in evidence again just six minutes later. Deborah-Ann de la Harpe worked her way along the right and pulled a ball across. With Barbieri committed coming towards the ball, her defender Winonah Heatley headed back towards the edge of the box.
Hana Lowry took advantage of the miscommunication to hit a low shot towards the open goal, but Kaitlyn Torpey got in well to deny the teenage Perth star.
City gradually settled, looking to play long balls over the top, and earned back-to-back corners as the game entered the 20-minute mark.
Above: Tyla-Jay Vlajnic in action on her 50th game for Melbourne City. Photo: Melbourne City.
Perth had another opportunity as City needlessly conceded a free-kick on the left-hand side around 20 yards out. de la Harpe curled an effort in towards the far post, but Barbieri gathered comfortably.
Just after the half-hour mark, Rhianna Pollicina went down off the pitch after being shepherded out of play by Kim Carroll. There was no obvious challenge or foul. The City star required treatment on the side of her knee shortly afterward. With the Sky Blues about to lose both Hannah Wilkinson and Rebekah Stott to international duty with New Zealand, the last thing Rado Vidosic needed was a question mark over the availability of another offensive player.
City continued to have the better of the remaining period of the opening half. They were working hard, but struggled to produce a final ball. Torpey drove past Abbey Green along the right to find Wilkinson. The Kiwi chested down and laid off for Holly McNamara who lofted a shot over the bar.
The Sky Blues had better luck deep into injury time. A ball lofted into the box was nodded back by Wilkinson who chested the ball down for Pollicina. The 25-year-old, showing no lasting impact from the knee issue, laid a lovely finish into the net for her fifth goal of the season.
Despite playing their second game in four days, Perth started the second half on the front foot. de la Harpe’s influence was growing, but the importance of finding the final ball was key.
The game was ultimately decided just past the hour mark. Lowry fed a dangerous corner into the mix from the right for Perth which led to a playground-style scramble in and around the six-yard box which City finally dealt with for a goal kick.
Above: Perth Glory’s Hana Lowry (left) in a close tussle for the ball. Photo: Perth Glory.
Barbieri hit the kick long and Green’s back header fell was jumped on gleefully by McNamara to advance to a one-on-one with Perth keeper Courtney Newbon and calmly slot home into the bottom corner.
Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis rang the changes, introducing the competition’s most experienced strike partnership in 37-year-old Lisa De Vanna and 35-year-old Leena Khamis.
Khamis in particular involved herself in a physical battle and worked hard, but around her, the impact of her teammates playing two games in such a short space of time was becoming apparent.
City’s use of the direct approach had the desired impact with the third goal two minutes from the end. Former Glory player Leticia McKenna hit a long ball through which landed into the stride of McNamara on the right. Newbon advanced well out of her area, but the teenage Matilda lifted a shot comfortably over the Perth keeper and into the net.
The scoring is completed in stoppage time, despite strong Perth protestations for offside. A long, low ball through split the Perth defence and found Wilkinson. Once more Newbon was forced to come way out of her goal and once more, City profit, as the Football Fern took a touch away from Newbon to score. The Sky Blues ran out 4-0 winners, which was probably a bit harsh on Perth, but City clearly deserved the win.
Above: Melbourne City celebrate a vital win in the Finals race Photo: Melbourne City.
City goalscorer Rhianna Pollicina was modest about her strike: “I was in the right place at the right time!” She also explained the circumstances behind her knee issue midway through the first half.
“I fell over and felt the back of my knee. I was worried it was an ACL, so I wanted the physio to have a look, but it’s all OK now.”
Perth defender Liz Anton spoke of her disappointment and the impact of playing two games in such a short space of time. “Our first half was good, the late goal then killed us going into half-time.
“We had a short turnaround (from the win over Adelaide United on Thursday), and I don’t want to use it as an excuse, but it really hurt us. I don’t think we had enough energy going forward and then there were a few things at the back towards the end.
“The goals towards the end I think were down to fatigue. I was certainly feeling it really hard in the last 10. But, credit to City, they did well.”
Holly McNamara was delighted to win a game that she found tough. “It was a grind. Credit to Perth because it was a hard game. We didn’t play our best football, but we fought out well for the win.”
With regard to her second goal, she said: “It was a great ball through from ‘Teech (Leticia McKenna) and I saw Courtney Newbon coming out and just lifted it over her. I’ve tried them before and they’ve not worked!”
Above: Perth Glory will now regroup ahead of next week’s game with another Finals chasing team, Melbourne Victory. Photo: A-League Women.
For Perth Glory head coach Alex Epakis, pride in the first-half performance was tinged with regret that again, his team came up against a top side just days after playing a previous fixture. “First, credit has to go to where it’s due. Melbourne City were good today and I don’t want to take away from anything they did.
“We came in with a really specific game plan which we could see was working for the first 40-50 minutes. The goal we conceded before half-time meant that we needed to go forward a bit more in the second. That left us a bit open in those transition moments. I think 4-0 was an inflated scoreline, but we weren’t as good as we can be.”
He emphasized the impact of the scheduling for his team’s matches against both the top two sides this season.
“We’re a good team, a competitive team and I really believe that we can compete with anyone. It’s just unfortunate now that those games against Sydney and City that we weren’t able to get a good crack at them because we played them only a couple of days after a previous game.
“If we had been able to play both of those games with a fresh squad and preparation time then I think there may have been a different outcome.”
Ahead of what becomes a must-win game in the Finals race against Melbourne Victory next week, Epakis said: “Everybody deserves a couple of days off now mentally and physically. We should have close to everyone who is able to play available for next week.”
Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Newbon, Rigby, Anton, K.Carroll, Green, Leth Jans, Lowry, Cain, de la Harpe, Hintzen, Sakalis. Substitutes: Aquino (GK), Koulizakis, De Vanna, Lawrence, Khamis.
MELBOURNE CITY (3-4-3): Barbieri, Tunmeth, Checker, Heatley, Torpey, Davidson, Stott, Vlajnic, Pollicina, Wilkinson, McNamara. Substitutes: James (GK), van der Meer, Blissett, McKenna, Westland.
