Above: Hibernian’s Colette Cavanagh with the SWPL 1 Player of the Month Award. Photo supplied to Impetus by Scottish Women’s Football.
Colette Cavanagh of Hibernian has been voted as the winner of the SWPL 1 Player of the Month for September 2021 while Rachel Todd of Dundee United is the winner of the SWPL 2 award.
It’s the first player of the month awards of the new season and it’s the first time that there is separate winners for both SWPL 1 and SWPL 2.
This is the second time that Cavanagh has won a Player of the Month award, last winning for Celtic Women back in May 2018. She becomes the first SWPL player to win the award for two different clubs.
In the month of September, Hibernian won three out of four games including a historic victory over Edinburgh rivals, Heart of Midlothian, in front of a domestic record crowd at Easter Road.
Cavanagh, playing a more attacking role so far this season, scored two goals in September in combination with her high work-rate and determination. Her abilities were displayed most clearly when she won the ball back before a wonder strike against Celtic in a narrow 2-1 loss.
Speaking from Easter Road, Cavanagh said: “I’m thrilled to win this award for September. I feel like I’ve started the season strongly and there is great feeling within the team. I certainly believe I’m playing some of the best football of my career.
“It’s nice to be recognised again for my performances in the SWPL having won the award a few years ago now. I’m here for success with Hibernian though, so winning games is the most important thing for me as a player.”
Above: Dundee United’s Rachel Todd with the SWPL 2 Player of the Month Trophy. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Scottish Women’s Football.
In SWPL 2 Dundee United’s Rachel Todd was voted as Player of the Month as her side went undefeated, winning three and drawing one.
The former St Johnstone midfielder has adapted quickly to life at the club, playing every minute in September. She also played a pivotal role in their 3-1 win over Queen’s Park, scoring their opening two goals.
Speaking from Dundee United WFC training, Todd said: “It’s a huge honour to win this award. Moving to a new team can present challenges but I’m delighted with how things are going. I feel this award is recognition of the hard work that both the club and I have put in so far this season.
“Our aim is to get promotion to SWPL 1 this season and many have listed us title favourites. With the squad we have and the support of the club, we’re confident we can achieve success. For us as players though, it’s about taking every game as it comes and ensuring we pick up maximum points.”
Aileen Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Women’s Football, said: “I’d like to congratulate both Colette (Cavanagh) and Rachel (Todd) on winning the first Player of the Month awards for the 2021/22 season and say well done to all nominees.
“Both SWPL 1 and SWPL 2 have been highly entertaining and it’s shaping up to be, yet again, the most competitive season we’ve ever had within the women’s game. These awards are testament to the hard work and dedication of the players involved.
“I’m also delighted that Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) will recognise both an SWPL 1 and SWPL 2 Player of the Month going forward. We feel it’s a positive development for the players, coaches, fans, and leagues for the 2021/22 season and beyond.
Nominated for the SWPL 1 award was Charlie Wellings (Celtic Women) and Eilidh Shore (Aberdeen Women) while Lucy Ronald (Glasgow Women) and Samantha Duncan (Boroughmuir Thistle) were nominated for the SWPL 2 award.
The Irish FA provide us with all the news from the national squad selection for forthcoming games with England and Austria, plusall the news from the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup Final.
Above: Northern Ireland squad Photo: via Irish FA
Northern Ireland senior women’s team manager Kenny Shiels has made a couple of changes to his squad for this month’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualifiers against England and Austria.
Everton Women striker Simone Magill returns to the fold after being absent for the impressive victories against Luxembourg and Latvia in September due to injury.
And midfielder Joely Andrews is also back after impressing during Glentoran Women’s title run-in. She was not included in the panel last month.
Missing out this time are Cliftonville Ladies forward Caitlin McGuinness and Glentoran Women striker Danielle Maxwell.
Young Cliftonville Ladies defender Toni-Leigh Finnegan is not available due to injury, while still recovering from long term injuries are Rangers Women midfielder Megan Bell and Linfield Ladies pair Ashley Hutton and Abbie Magee.
England and Austria, the first and second seeds in European Qualifying Group D respectively, will be an altogether different proposition than last month’s opponents.
The Northern Ireland senior women’s team are set to play at Wembley Stadium for the first time on Saturday 23 October. The game against England kicks off in London at 5.15pm.
And then it’s back home for a qualifier against Austria on Tuesday 26 October (7pm start).
England, currently ranked 8th in the world, began their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualification campaign with emphatic wins over North Macedonia at home (8-0) and Luxembourg away (10-0) in September.
Above: Northern Ireland boss Kenny Shiels selected his squad for games against England and Austria. Photo via: Irish FA
Austria, who are 21st in the latest FIFA Coca-Cola global rankings, defeated Latvia 8-1 away and North Macedonia 6-0 at home.
Northern Ireland began their quest for a place at the Women’s World Cup in 2023 – it is being hosted by Australia and New Zealand – with a 4-0 win over Luxembourg in Larne followed by a 4-0 victory over Latvia in Belfast last month.
Shiels has gone with his usual blend of youth and experience in his 23-strong panel for this month’s tough assignments.
His squad features seven Glentoran Women players who are fresh from securing the NIFL Danske Bank Women’s Premiership title and the Toalsbet.com County Antrim Women’s Challenge Cup.
And all seven will be aiming to help their club secure a treble when they take on Crusaders Strikers in the Electric Ireland-sponsored Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup Final at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park tomorrow (15 October, 7.45pm kick-off).
Goalkeepers – Jackie Burns (Lee University/Glentoran Women), Becky Flaherty (Huddersfield Town Women), Maddy Harvey-Clifford (Crusaders Strikers).
Defenders – Julie Nelson (Crusaders Strikers), Rebecca McKenna (Lewes Women), Rebecca Holloway (Birmingham City Women), Laura Rafferty (Southampton Women), Kelsie Burrows (Cliftonville Ladies), Demi Vance (Rangers Women).
Midfielders – Marissa Callaghan and Louise McDaniel (both Cliftonville Ladies), Nadene Caldwell, Chloe McCarron, Caragh Hamilton and Joely Andrews (all Glentoran Women), Rachel Furness (Liverpool Women), Sarah McFadden (Durham Women), Ciara Watling (Southampton Women).
Above: Glentoran lift the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup. Photo via: Irish FA
Glentoran Women completed the treble at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park.
The league champions deservedly lifted the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup sponsored by Electric Ireland after defeating Crusaders Strikers 2-0 thanks to goals from player of the match Joely Andrews and Lauren Wade.
The Glens, with the NIFL Danske Bank Women’s Premiership trophy and the Toalsbet.com County Antrim FA Women’s Challenge Cup already in the cabinet, created the bulk of the chances in the match and deserved their success after producing some slick football.
The opening period of the match was scrappy before Glentoran, fielding a team packed with current and former Northern Ireland internationals, enjoyed a period of sustained pressure.
The first clearcut chance of the game saw Glens midfielder Chloe McCarron unleash one of her trademark long range strikes. Her superb hit crashed off the bar and down onto the goalline, however the referee, Arleen Campbell, adjudged that the ball did not cross the line.
On 22 minutes the Glens took the lead thanks to a well worked goal. Captain Jessica Foy crossed to striker Kerry Beattie and she laid the ball back to Andrews 16 yards out and the midfielder planted it past Crues keeper Maddy Harvey-Clifford into the bottom corner of the net.
Five minutes later Strikers midfielder Amy McGivern got on the end of a long pass and scuffed an effort past the post. It was a decent opportunity to equalise.
Andrews had a chance to double the Glens’ lead on 34 minutes. She bamboozled the Crues defence by twisting this way and that, creating an opening, however her weak shot was blocked and Harvey-Clifford gathered the ball.
Crusaders Strikers, who finished third in the league this season behind the Glens and Cliftonville Ladies, struggled to make an impact going forward although experienced midfielder Danielle McDowell-Tuffey did have an opportunity to draw her team level as half-time approached. She stepped up to take a free-kick just outside the area but Glens keeper Emma Higgins comfortably saved her shot at the near post.
The Crues, whose manager Jonny Tuffey was unable to attend the game due to Covid protocols, made a double substitution after the break with Northern Ireland striker Emily Wilson, who missed last weekend’s Co Antrim Cup decider through injury, and Meghan Ingram entering the fray.
Andrews sprayed a lovely pass to Wade down the left and her tantalising cross was plucked out of the air by Harvey-Clifford, and then McCarron fired a shot over the top.
Moments later Caragh Hamilton let fly from distance and Harvey-Clifford dived full length to push her powerful strike past the post. It was a top class save.
The Crues, with Julie Nelson solid as a rock at the heart of their defence, continued to thwart the Glens’ forwards and they did well to snuff out an Andrews snapshot.
Wilson set off on a powerful run just after the hour mark, leaving a couple of Glentoran defenders trailing in her wake, however her shot from distance was easily held by Higgins.
Glens substitute Danielle Maxwell scooped a shot wide, Nelson stepped in to stop a promising move between Maxwell and Beattie in its tracks and Hamilton fizzed an effort past the post as the Glens continued to push forward.
Glentoran grabbed their second goal – and secured the treble – with minutes remaining. Midfielder Nadene Caldwell jinked her way past a couple of defenders and crossed for Wade to flick the ball past Harvey-Clifford from six yards.
Above: Tash Allderidge tussles with Wirksworth’s Sarah Stimpsonin a previous encounter between the two sides. Photo: Shaun Hardwick
A hat trick for Summer Evans and goals for Allderidge and Lewis-Wilson gave Pride Park a 5-3 win over Wirksworth Colts.
With several players missing some changes had to be made to the starting lineup, but the team looked raring to go as they returned to a very cold Moorways Stadium for the second home game of the season.
Both teams made a good start. Enjoying possession all over the pitch Pride Park took a little longer to settle into the game but ultimately got the first real chance to score. The corner was swung in but the oncoming Bleu Lewis-Wilson couldn’t connect and it gave Wirksworth a chance to gather themselves.
The visitors were able to capitalise and broke down to the other end of the pitch. Georgia Williams beat her defender and picked up the ball in space before slotting it into the back of the net to take the lead.
However, Pride Park didn’t let that faze them and they equalised just four minutes later. A stunning free-kick from captain Tash Allderidge flew straight into the back of the net and with 20 minutes played the game was level. This was a milestone goal for Allderidge as it was her 50th for the team.
Just after half an hour Pride Park made a couple of early substitutions as a way of managing minutes for players who are returning from injuries. Jess Page and Hannah Kwiatek were replaced by Otty Baker and Izzy Wilsoncroft.
For the last 10 minutes of the half Wirksworth created a number of good chances that challenged the Pride Park defence. A shot from outside of the box cannoned off the crossbar but was well collected by keeper Jade Howell as they made a number of last-ditch attempts to be ahead at the break.
Above: Pride Park’s hat-trick hero Summer Evans. Photo Shaun Hardwick.
The home side looked in control as the second half began, controlling the ball and creating several chances before going ahead after 10 minutes. After going close earlier in the match Lewis-Wilson picked up a through ball in the box to tuck the ball into the net.
Wirksworth kept going close, but thanks to a save from the bottom of the post they were unable to score and it was Pride Park who added a third. In her first of the afternoon Evans used her knee to push the ball into the net after a good run and cross by Baker. An unconventional but effective technique that extended her teams lead.
After what could be described as ‘pin-ball’ football, the game kicked up a gear in the final 15 minutes, with four goals before the whistle.
Wirksworth clawed one back through Williams before Pride Park broke down the other end and after slick build up and combination play between Lewis-Wilson, Baker and Laight, an Evans header dipped over the keeper and into the net.
Just before 90 minutes Evans got her third of the game. She danced around her defenders to put the ball past the Wirksworth keeper and seal the win for the home side.
In some last minute dramatics Wirksworth pulled one back deep in injury time, as Williams stooped low to divert a cross past Howell to complete her hat-trick but their efforts weren’t enough to take anything from the game.
Pride Park return to league action next Sunday when they travel to Belper Town (1:30pm).
Impetus’ French editor Jean-Pierre Thiesset rounds up all of the action from the sixth week of France’s D1 Arkema, including his exclusive photos from Olympique Lyonnais’ game with Montpellier.
Above: Lyon’s Ellie Carpenter holds off her Matildas team mate Mary Fowler in her team’s clash with Montpellier. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Reims won 5-2 at home against Bordeaux. Even if Bordeaux monopolized the ball with 65% of possession and 455 passes, but both teams had the same number of shots (17) and shots on target (eight). Bordeaux scored first in the sixth minute and most followers thought that it would be an easy game for them. It was without counting on Rachel Corboz, Reims’ captain, who put her side back on level terms ten minutes later with a great shot from 20 meters into the right upper part of the goal leaving no chance to the goalkeeper to catch the ball. Then the young players from Reims showed their qualities starting with Kessya Busy (20 years old) who scored her first of two goals five minutes later with a great shot too. At the beginning of the second half,Melchie Dumornay (18 years old) from Haiti, scored twice in seven minutes. This is the third win in a row for Reims who are now mid table with the same record as Bordeaux with seven points.
There are rumours that Patrice Lair, Bordeaux’s coach, will probably leave his role soon; more news to come this week.
Goals for Reims came from Rachel Corboz (16), Kessya Bussy (21, 73), and Melchie Dumornay (46, 53). Goals for Bordeaux from Katja Snoeijs (6) and Claire Lavogez (80).
Dijon won away from home 1-0 against Fleury in an important game with fourth place in the league at stake. Both teams are now on nine points with Fleury being in front of Dijon just with a better goal average of -4 against -7. Katriina Talaslahti, Fleury’s goalkeeper, did a good game for her fourth game in a row as starter, but couldn’t do anything to prevent Solène Barbance’s strike after 29 minutes.
Paris FC won 4-0 at home against Soyaux. Even if Paris FC just slightly dominated the game (57% of possession), they were more efficient with 23 shots (9 on target) against 11 shots (4 on target) for Soyaux. Paris FC remain in third place in the table.
Above: Selma Bacha, on the right, scores Olympique Lyonnais’ first goal against Montpellier in the 33rd minute. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Goals for Paris FC from Coumba Sow (37), Annaig Butel (51), Clara Matéo (63), and Daphne Corboz (78 on penalty).
Issy obtained a draw 1-1 away from home against Guingamp in a game dominated by the hosts (Guingamp had 67% of possession, 24 shots with 11 on target, nine corners). Issy scored despite only mustering 12 shots in comparison with five on target, and four corners. These two teams continue to struggle a lot in the bottom part of the table. Guingamp are ninth with five points and Issy are 11th with four points.
Goal for Issy from Adélie Fourré (62). Goal for Guingamp from Sana Daoudi (55).
Paris St. Germain won at home 2-0 against Saint-Etienne. Paris SG dominated largely this game (66% of possession, 467 passes with 85% successful, and 11 corners) but had only 13 shots with five on target. Paris SG first goal was just before the end of first half at the 43rd minute.
Goals for Paris SG from Sara Dabritz (43), and Marie-Antoinette Katoto (66).
Olympique Lyonnais won 5-0 at home against Montpellier. Lyon dominated largely this game (71% of possession, 646 passes with 88% successful, 8 corners, 39 shots with 16 on target) and could have scored a lot more goals if they scored sooner in the game. Selma Bacha scored the first goal after taking the ball almost from the centre of the field, running the ball up to 20 meters from the goal and delivering a great shot on the right of the goalkeeper at the 33rd minute.
Above: Selma Bacha wins her duel against Montpellier’s Marion Torrent. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus
Congratulationsto Selma Bacha who delivered a great game and who was named player of the game for the second consecutive game.
Goals for Lyon from Selma Bacha (33), Marion Torrent (45+2 Over Goal), Perle Morroni (47), Melvine Malard (59), and Sally Julini (88).
Impetus’ French editor Jean-Pierre Thiesset spoke exclusively to Reims captain Rachel Corboz.
Above: Rachel Corboz(right) in action for Reims at Olympique Lyonnais on 2nd August. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Rachel Corboz was born on May 1, 1996, in Mobile, Alabama, USA to French-born parents, Michel and Christine.
Rachel has a dual citizenship French and American. Her father was a semi-professional footballer in Grenoble, France. Rachel grew up in Green Brook Township, New Jersey and has a brother, Mael, and a sister, Daphne both older than her; they both play football too.
Her brother started playing at university in the USA and now plays in Germany. Her sister also started football at university. She and Rachel then moved to play for Fleury, France before going on to play for Paris FC, France in D1 Arkema.
Rachel spent four years with the Georgetown University women’s soccer team where she scored 34 goals in 88 appearances. She received several distinctions in Big East Conference including Midfielder of the Year during her second year and her senior year. Rachel has been previously selected to train with the United States at U-18, U-20, and U-23 age groups.
Rachel signed for FC Fleury in June 2018. In her first season with the club, she made 19 appearances. She then moved to Reims in D1 Arkema, in June 2019. She played 15 games in 2019-2020 season, and 18 games in season 2020-2021 in which she delivered two decisive passes and scored three goals. She was appointed captain of Reims for the beginning of the 2021/22 season.
Rachel also prepares her future and follow her studies with a Masters in Adaptation to Climate Changes.
Above: Rachel Corboz. Photo: JK Sikorsynski, Stade de Reims.
Interview:
Jean-Pierre Thiesset (JPT): What is your best position to play and which other positions could you play?
Rachel Corboz (RC): My preferred position is as an offensive midfielder, but I can play also off centre on the right or on the left side even if I am right-handed because I have both feet.
JPT: Who/what inspired you to become a football player?
RC: Above all, my brother and my sister who are three years older than me, who played both football and I wanted to follow my sister and do like her. Also, at home, we watched a lot of football with my family and that must have influenced me.
JPT: Why do you play in France rather than in USA?
RC: I prefer the game style that we play in Europe and in France. I find it more technical and tactical, and it suits me better.
JPT: Who is your role-model if you have one?
RC: The player I like is Dzsenifer Marozsan. First because she plays in the same position as me and that in my opinion, she is the best both technically and tactically in this position.
JPT: What is your greatest challenge on the pitch?
RC: I am rather technical, and not very physical, so my biggest challenge on the field is to resist to physical impacts.
JPT: What is your greatest challenge off the pitch?
RC: I would like to be even more sure and confident in myself. It is also a challenge on the pitch elsewhere (laughs).
JPT: Who are your closest teammates?
RC: I am very open and friendly, and I am close to everyone.
JPT: What do you like to get up to off the pitch?
RC: I like to read in English, and practice yoga. I read a bit of everything but mostly novels. Now I am reading “Le comte de Monte-Cristo”. I also devote a lot of time to my studies.
Above: Rachel Corboz. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus
JPT: What makes Reims such a great club to play for?
RC: We have the same facilities than the men and it really is a big plus. We are a united team, all the girls get along well, there are no small groups, everyone talks to everyone and that I think is really a plus in a team because when there starts to be muddles or differences, this is where a team can have problems. It has been like that for three years and it is something that I really appreciated when I arrived in Reims. We also have coaches who are really invested and who really want us to be ambitious as a team; as we do better and better each year, it is good for the team, and I hope it will continue like this (laughs).
JPT: What is your preferred animal?
RC: I love cats. I just had a little kitten.
JPT: What are your preferred foods?
RC: I like everything a bit, but my favourite thing is my mother’s Vegetarian Lasagne.
JPT: What kind of music do you like?
RC: I did not listen a lot of music, but I like alternative music. I like Taylor Swift.
JPT: What is your main quality?
RC: My kindness. I think it is very important to be nice to everyone, even to people you do not know. I was raised by parents who showed me the importance of having this quality with all the people you meet.
JPT: What do you need to improve in your game?
RC: I must improve my speed and my explosiveness. I also must improve my heading because I do not like to make headers (laughs).
JPT: Is there a message you would like to give to your fans?
RC: Thank you very much for supporting us and I think it is important that you continue to support us. I think the only way for women’s football to grow is through the supporters who come to games and those who watch the games on TV. Keep supporting us, there have been more and more spectators since my first year here and it would be nice to see more and more people at the games.
Ben Gilby rounds up a busy week in the game Down Under. We hear from Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson on the announcement of the Australia squad to take on Brazil. Elsewhere, the ramifications of Lisa De Vanna’s allegations roll on. The key people at Wellington Phoenix who announce their coaching team and first player and Brisbane Roar reveal another new signing.
Gustavsson Announces Squad For Brazil Friendlies:
Above: The Matildas squad line up prior to kick off against their friendly in Dublin against the Republic of Ireland last month. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Matildas Head Coach Tony Gustavsson has announced Australia’s 23-player squad to take on world number seven Brazil next week in Sydney.
The two nations have met 19 times previously since their first meeting in 1988 with Australia leading the head-to-head with 10 wins to Brazil’s eight. There has been one draw.
The nations will meet twice, first on Saturday, 23 October and then Tuesday, 26 October at Parramatta’s CommBank Stadium as they return to action on Australian soil. The matches mark the first time an Australian senior national team has played at home in almost 600 days, with their last match against Vietnam in the Tokyo 2020 Women’s Football Tournament Qualifiers.
The last time the women’s national team played at the CommBank Stadium in November 2019, they set their attendance record when they beat Chile 2-1 in a friendly in front of 20,029 fans and it is possible that this record could be broken again next week.
With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in India less than 100 days from kick off, the two-match series is invaluable preparation as Gustavsson and the team continue to build towards the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023
Above: Ellie Carpenter, pictured in action for the Matildas in Denmark, is back in the squad for the friendlies with Brazil. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“Preparation is number one,” Gustavsson said. “I said that going into the September camp when we played against Ireland, we changed from ‘performance mode’ from the Olympics to ‘preparation mode’ [ahead of India 2022 and Australia/New Zealand 2023].”
“That doesn’t mean that we are going to step on the field not trying to win – we are always going to try and win when we play every game – but we are not going to try and win at the expense of our preparations
“We can’t shy away from tough challenges and tough games. We need to look at this as a long run towards the World Cup in ‘23.”
The October window will feature the return of fan favourites including full back Ellie Carpenter, midfielder Emily van Egmond, and forwards Kyah Simon and Caitlin Foord, to the Matildas’ squad.
Midfielder Chloe Logarzo has been sidelined due to a long-term knee injury, while injury has also ruled Elise Kellond-Knight (knee), Hayley Raso (shoulder) and Emily Gielnik (toe) out of selection contention.
Above: Western Sydney Wanderers’ Bryleeh Henry receives her first call up for the matches to be played in her club’s own district. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Several new national team players have retained their place in the squad including September’s debutantes Angie Beard, Charli Grant, and Clare Wheeler. Meanwhile Western Sydney Wanderers product and Young Matildas forward Bryleeh Henry has received her first call up to the senior national team.
“We need to be patient,” Gustavsson added. “We can’t expect a debutant coming into the camp to be ready the first time they come in, but we need to expose them to the Matildas’ environment to get them ready for ‘23 and to scout them in our environment, to see who bounds and thrives under that high international tempo that we have in the Matildas.”
“We are going to keep looking for new players, and either invite them to the training environment to see them there, or for some players that make a good impression in the training environment, also make sure that they get some game time.”
“It is all about now who can reach their full potential come ‘23. It’s not just about who is the best, it is about who can become the best, so we are looking at ‘23 in all the decisions that we are making right now,” he said.
The forthcoming games with Brazil could see a number of milestones recorded. Centre back Alanna Kennedy is in line to become the 11th Australian woman to join the 100 Club. She would join current Commonwealth Bank Matildas’ Clare Polkinghorne (136), Elise Kellond-Knight (113), Emily van Egmond (108), Kyah Simon (101) and Sam Kerr (100). Kennedy would be the 4th player this year to reach the century milestone.
Captain Sam Kerr is two goals away from equalling the Australian goalscoring record. Currently the Matildas all-time leading goalscorer (48 goals), Kerr is chasing Socceroos legend Tim Cahill (50) for the Australian international goals record.
Name
Position
Club
Caps (goals)
Mackenzie Arnold
Goalkeeper
West Ham United
27 (0)
Angela Beard
Back
Fortuna Hjørring
1 (0)
Ellie Carpenter
Back
Lyon
50 (1)
Steph Catley
Back
Arsenal WFC
92 (3)
Emma Checker
Back
Melbourne City
8 (0)
Kyra Cooney-Cross
Midfielder
Melbourne Victory
10 (0)
Caitlin Foord
Forward
Arsenal WFC
92 (21)
Mary Fowler
Forward
Montpellier
16 (4)
Charlotte Grant
Back
FC Rosengård
1 (0)
Bryleeh Henry
Forward
Western Sydney Wanderers
0 (0)
Alanna Kennedy
Back
Manchester City
99 (8)
Sam Kerr
Forward
Chelsea
100 (48)
Teagan Micah
Goalkeeper
FC Rosengård
7 (0)
Courtney Nevin
Back
Melbourne Victory
4 (0)
Clare Polkinghorne
Back
Vittsjö GIK
136 (11)
Jamilla Rankin
Back
Brisbane Roar
0 (0)
Karly Roestbakken
Back
LSK Kvinner
7 (0)
Remy Siemsen
Forward
Sydney FC
0 (0)
Kyah Simon
Forward
Tottenham Hotspur
101 (26)
Emily van Egmond
Midfielder
Orlando Pride
108 (23)
Clare Wheeler
Midfielder
Fortuna Hjørring
1 (0)
Lydia Williams
Goalkeeper
Arsenal WFC
92 (0)
Tameka Yallop
Midfielder
West Ham United
97 (11)
Current Matildas Join To Make Statement:
Above: The Matildas at the Tokyo Olympic Games in the Summer. The squad came together to release a statement about Lisa De Vanna’s allegations of last week. Photo: Football Australia.
Following the allegations made by Lisa de Vanna last week about her time with the team from 2001-2019 (see: https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2021/10/09/australian-football-round-up-2/), the current contracted Matildas joined together make a statement following about the current team culture and stance against this type of behaviour.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of Lisa’s allegations about the past and we empathise with her for not feeling like she could come forth earlier. We will work with Football Australia, the PFA and Sport Integrity Australia to ensure that all current and future players feel comfortable, safe and able to report instances of inappropriate behaviour, in a timely manner. There must also be a trusted process to deal with these complaints.
“We all – from our most capped players to our most recently capped – would like to reassure to our fans, family and friends that today we have a strong professional, inclusive and supportive culture that does not condone any of the behaviour mentioned within the numerous media articles about historical incidents. Our strong leadership ensures our cultural norms are appropriate for today’s professional sporting environment.
“As a group, we represent the values reflective of Australia and that includes acceptance and inclusivity, regardless of sexuality, ethnicity or culture. It was disappointing to observe conversations inferring the group is not accepting of differences, especially given the diversity that exists within our current leadership group on all those fronts, let alone across the broader team. We would also like to re-iterate the professional standards that surround the current team today. Women’s football has dramatically grown in recent years and so has our professionalism and standards.
“As a team, we have spoken at length about the allegations and are all hurt by what has occurred. We hold this team close to our hearts and for many, this team has been a safe haven. It has given us strength and purpose throughout our careers. We are together like a family in this, from our oldest to our youngest player, and the difficulties we’ve faced in the last week have only made us stronger as a group.
“We stand supportive of athletes who are able to come forward and report instances of inappropriate behaviour in their respective environments, and therefore welcome an independent review into this matter.”
The impact of this statement appears to have divided supporters with a number taking to social media to state their feeling that the statement actually serves to worsen the situation as they construe the quotes to be of an “everything’s OK” angle rather than coming out strongly in support of those who had such unsettling experiences in the past.
Football Australia & PFA Condemn Social Media Abuse of Matildas:
On Wednesday, the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Football Australia and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) have reported social media trolls for posting “disturbing” and “abhorrent” abuse towards Matildas players – including the sharing of revealing images of two players without their consent.
Football Australia have referred the relevant posts to Twitter and the police with the PFA reporting an image posted to the eSafety Commissioners Office.
“We know the impact that social media abuse can have on people,” PFA co-chief executive Beau Busch said.
“We have been in constant contact with current and former players and the impact of targeted and coordinated abuse is taking an enormous toll on them.
“These bullies and trolls lack any semblance of humanity and have sought to deliberately target current and former players with abhorrent and vile abuse through a coordinated and relentless campaign.
“This garbage has no place in society and we will continue to refer matters that are criminal in nature to the police and work with the authorities to ensure the perpetrators are held accountable.”
Football Australia stated: “Many people from within our football community have approached us concerned about the disturbing activities of some social media accounts that are engaging in inappropriate social media posts.
“We are closely monitoring the activities of these accounts, including for potentially defamatory comments, and have reported and will continue to report activities of concern to the relevant authorities.”
Referees Strike Action Poses Question Marks Ahead of Season:
With little more than six weeks before the big kick-off, ABC Australia reported on Tuesday that A-League referees are still without contracts.
Professional Football Referees Australia (PFRA)’s statement on Tuesday said they had informed Football Australia that their referees would not officiate any games after “more than three months of discussions and efforts to resolve several topics”.
The PFRA said referees had been given “no direction, coaching/instruction and no fitness coaching” over the past three months.
“We are now just weeks out from the start of the season, and the referees find themselves in a position without any form of coaching and/or preparation,” the statement said.
At the present time, it is still unclear what impact this will have on the start of the A-League Women season on 3rd December.
FA said the arrangements for elite referees “represent the final changes that need to be implemented” in response to the new governance model in relation to the professional leagues.
“Football Australia recently confirmed a new structure for referees and today advertised for several new positions, including a Head of Refereeing to lead the new department,” the statement read.
“Football Australia can confirm that it is also holding discussions around contractual terms with A-League referees.”
Phoenix Announce Experienced Coaching Staff And First Player:
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Wellington Phoenix and New Zealand Football (NZF) are announced the inaugural coaching staff for the Club’s first ever A-League Women’s team and confirmed widely held beliefs that the squad will largely be made up of very young, development players.
In consultation with NZF, Gemma Lewis has been chosen as the Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s Head Coach, with Natalie Lawrence serving as Assistant Coach for the 21/22 Season.
Lewis and Lawrence will join Canberra United as the only all-female coaching staff in the A-League Women’s competition, with Lewis being the fourth female Head Coach named in the 10-Club league – the first time in A-League Women’s history that the competition has boasted that number.
Wellington Phoenix General Manager, David Dome said that he believed that this selection will come as no surprise to many, with both coaches highly regarded as elite in New Zealand and amongst the best qualified to lead this country’s first professional women’s football team.
“We are extremely pleased to have Gemma and Natalie leading the charge with the country’s first ever professional women’s football team our Phoenix women’s squad this year,” said Dome. “No doubt it’s going to be a huge learning season for us and the squad given the players we are looking at, but it’s also a chance for coach and players to show the rest of Australasia what they can do.
“We expect to have a very young, development-focussed team with the majority of players new to the professional ranks – so it’s a great opportunity for women’s football in New Zealand as we prepare for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, and we hope that Kiwis unite behind Gemma, Natalie and this squad as they make history for New Zealand on the big stage.”
Lewis joins the Phoenix with an outstanding pedigree as both a player, coach and mentor. Her playing career saw her appear in the English women’s game with Cardiff City as well as international appearances for her native Wales, before transitioning into coaching via the elite NZF pathways.
She has served as assistant coach of the bronze medal winning New Zealand U-17s side at the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Uruguay, and as Football Ferns assistant coach at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.
Lewis also has experience coaching in the National Women’s League – winning the title with Auckland Football in 2017 – and in 2018 was selected by FIFA to be part of an elite coach mentorship programme, which saw her mentored by Japan women’s team head coach Asako Takemoto.
For the past two years, Lewis has overseen the development of some of the most promising young female players in the country as manager of the Future Ferns Domestic Programme (FFDP) at NZF, alongside her role as head coach of the U-20 women’s national team. Lewis says that this is a massive moment for women’s football in Aotearoa New Zealand.
“It’s really exciting to be leading the inaugural Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s side. This side is such an important part of the women’s pathway in New Zealand, especially in the lead up to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil,” says Lewis.
“I’m especially looking forward to giving young players their first taste of professional football as we announce our first signings over the coming weeks and prepare for our first game on December 3.”
Lawrence moves into the Wellington Phoenix Assistant Coach position following a successful stint as FFDP and U20’s Assistant Coach and Coach Educator/Mentor at New Zealand Football, where she led the implementation of both the Talent Development Programme and the Girls Talent Acceleration Programme. She has earnt a solid reputation as a Women’s football development and youth coach, thanks in part to her experience in the USA, Canada – as the Vancouver Whitecaps REX U16s Head Coach and Academy Head Coach – and New Zealand; the latter including Head Coach of the Capital Football squad in the National Women’s League and Team Wellington Youth Head Coach.
“I’m delighted to be a part of this inaugural Wellington Phoenix side, and be part of this massive moment for women’s football in New Zealand,” says Lawrence. “The opportunities that having this team offers the game in New Zealand are huge, and I can’t wait for us to kick off the first campaign.”
New Zealand Football CEO, Andrew Pragnell believes that Lewis and Lawrence are the perfect tandem to help lead this new team in its inaugural year.
“This is an exciting moment for football in New Zealand, both confirming the first coaching team for the Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s side and having coaches who have qualified through the New Zealand Football coaching system,” says Pragnell. “Gemma and Natalie have done a brilliant job across the domestic and international game and will make a great team to take charge of the first professional women’s side in Aotearoa.”
Lewis and Lawrence are now working on finalising the squad for the Phoenix A-League Women’s side to compete next season, with the first player announcements expected to be made public in the coming weeks.
The squad is expected to travel to New South Wales in the near future as they prepare for the start of the A-League Women’s 2021/22 Season in Australia; with Wellington Phoenix taking on Western Sydney Wanderers on opening night, Friday 3rd December 2021 as part of a double-header with the Phoenix A-League Men’s side.
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Lily Alfeld, who had an outstanding season with Perth Glory last time round has become the historic first ever player for the A-League Women’s newest club.
Kiwi-born Alfeld, 26, started all 12 matches for the Glory in 2020/21 and make a league-leading 53 saves. As one of seven New Zealand players in the A-League Women’s competition last season, Alfeld joins with fellow Kiwi Claudia Bunge as one of only 14 players to play all 1080 minutes across the season.
Known as an acrobatic shot stopper, Alfeld’s achievements in her maiden campaign saw her named as a nominee for the PFA Player of the Month Award for December/January, while also winning the Save of the Week Award on two straight occasions.
Prior to this, Alfeld had spent four seasons at Louisiana State University in the United States, before returning home in 2018 to be part of NZ Football’s Future Ferns Domestic Programme (FFDP) – which helps young Kiwi women make the jump from domestic football and into their professional careers.
Alfeld says that she is ‘beyond stoked’ to be joining the Phoenix for its inaugural season.
“I’m thrilled to get this opportunity, I grew up watching the men’s Phoenix team and back then, I never really thought it’d be an option for me; obviously I’m just so excited it’s happening, to be able to get to play professionally at ‘home’ is pretty special,” says Alfeld.
Reflecting back on her first season in the A-League Women’s competition, she says it was a ‘rough season’ at times but she enjoyed the experience.
“It was an amazing opportunity and my first go playing professional football, so there was a lot to learn in that season and at times it was pretty tough – but overall such a positive experience. I think the season ahead (with the Phoenix) will be kind of a similar situation, in that a lot of the girls in the squad are quite young and are going into this as a development experience – but I’m excited to be going into this season knowing what I’m going to face and with some A-League Women experience under my belt.”
Alfeld says that she is excited to be part of history, as a member of New Zealand’s first professional women’s football club.
“To be part of the first, inaugural season (with the Phoenix), it’s a chance to create a bit of history so I would love to go out and have a positive start for what will hopefully be many seasons to come; it’s a role I’m very honoured to get a chance to do and I can’t wait to get started.”
Wellington Phoenix Women’s Head Coach, Gemma Lewis says that Alfeld will be counted on to bring her A-League experience into a squad primarily made up of young players new to the professional football space.
“She will bring a lot of stability and leadership to this team and we know the younger players will look up to her, as she has that professional experience and knows the A-League Women’s competition. We’re very excited that Lily is our first signing for the Phoenix Women’s side and we’re keen to announce the rest of the squad over the coming week.”
Alfeld and the rest of the NZ-based Wellington Phoenix squad will soon make their way to New South Wales, Australia as they prepare for the start of the 2021/22 A-League Women’s season. The club’s first ever match in this competition is scheduled for 5pm AEDT, 3 December – opening night – against Western Sydney Wanderers.
Roar Add Another Young Starlet To Squad:
Artwork: Brisbane Roar.
Brisbane Roar has secured another determined young talent for its A-League Women’s squad with the signing of defender Annabel Haffenden.
The 19-year-old, who has family ties to Queensland, joins from Victorian side Alamein FC, having previously spent time training with Melbourne City.
The move brings her closer to family members based on the north side of Brisbane and gives the former National Training Centre (NTC) player a chance to establish herself at the top level.
“I’m super excited to have signed my first professional contract with Brisbane Roar,” Haffenden said.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity Garrath (McPherson, head coach) has given me and I can’t wait to get started and meet my new team-mates.”
Haffenden featured in every game for Alamein and chipped in with three goals before the NPL Victoria season shutdown due to the pandemic.
“I played for Alamein under Kat Smith this season and that’s been a really great experience for me,” she said. “I feel like I’ve developed a lot under her this year. I’m quite competitive. One of my strengths is my physical capacity. I just want to work really hard for the team and give as much as I can.”
Head Coach McPherson said he was looking forward to seeing Haffenden show her ability on the A-League Women’s stage.
“Annie has been through the elite youth pathways in Australia and is ready to take the next step in her football,” McPherson said.
“She has been around national league environments in recent years down south and we are thrilled that we have been able to bring her to Queensland. She is a powerful, explosive defender who has shown an incredible commitment to relocate so she can represent Brisbane Roar this season.
“Annie has had wonderful mentorship in Victoria this past two years and I am excited to be able to continue to support her football development in the upcoming A-League Women’s season.”
Ben Gilby rounds up a busy week of Champions League, Damallsvenskan and Elitettan action plus some transfer news from Sweden.
Above: Hammarby’s Stockholm derby with AIK attracted a record Damallsvenskan crowd of 18,537. Photo: @_OBOSDamallsv
UEFA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE NEWS:
BK Häcken travelled to Bayern Munich for their second successive devilishly tough Champions League Group D tie on Thursday night. They suffered a nightmare start as Bayern went 2-0 up in the first 11 minutes thanks to two goals from Lea Schüller. It remained that way until deep into the second half when further strikes from Linda Dallmann and Jovana Damnjanović sealed Bayern’s 4-0 win. Häcken are bottom of the group after two games having lost previously 3-0 at Olympique Lyonnais who top the group with maximum points. Bayern Munich are second on four points with Benfica, who Häcken face in back to back encounters next, on one point.
DAMALLSVENSKAN:
The Stockholm derby between Hammarby and AIK drew a record crowd for a women’s club match in Sweden of 18,537 to the Tele2 Arena. The vast majority of the spectators went home happy as Hammarby kept their faint hopes of a top three place alive with a comfortable 4-1 win. Madelen Janogy put the home side in front with 20 minutes played. Three goals in seven second half minutes ultimately sealed the game. Alice Carlsson doubled Hammarby’s lead before Honaka Hayashi immediately reduced it to 2-1. Yet, Berglind Thorvaldsdottir ultimately decided the game when she put the hosts 3-1 ahead. Emma Jansson’s penalty with nine minutes left further extended the green and white’s lead.
Above: Hammarby players thank their record crowd for support in their derby win over AIK. Photo: @_OBOSDamallsv
BK Häcken, who got back in the title race last week were immensely frustrated to drop points at home to Vittsjö after the game ended goalless in front of 663.
Rosengård took advantage to pull five points clear of Häcken after they came from behind to record a 2-1 win over rapidly fading Linköping. The visitors went ahead after just nine minutes thanks to Uchenna Kanu. The lead lasted for just under 20 minutes when Olivia Schough’s free kick levelled the scores. Sanne Troelsgaard’s strike three minutes from half-time earned the points to the delight of the 1,586 fans.
KIF Örebro won the battle of two sides in lower mid table when they saw off Djurgården 1-0 thanks to Wilma Ohman’s goal after just five minutes in front of 934 supporters.
Above: Nellie Karlsson, whose goal secured a first Damallsvenskan win of the season for Växjö. Photo: Smålandsposten
The battle of two of the bottom three sides – Växjö and Piteå, went the way of cellar dwellers Växjö who, in doing so, picked up their first win of the campaign with just three games to go. Nellie Karlsson’s strike after 52 minutes earned the victory which kept their exceptionally slim survival hopes alive for another week to the joy of the gathered 294 fans.
Kristianstads kept their hopes of third place alive after they defeated Eskilstuna United 2-0. Anna Welin and Miranda Nild hit second half goals in front of 492 spectators. This win cut the gap between the two sides to just three points.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll
Round Twenty Fixtures:
Linköping v Växjö
Vittsjö v Hammarby
Djurgården v Kristianstads
AIK v BK Häcken
Piteå v Rosengård
Eskilstuna United v KIF Örebro
ELITETTAN:
Above: Monica Bah, whose two goals set Umeå on course for the Elitettan title. Photo: Västerbottens-Kuriren
Umeå IK clinched promotion to the Damallsvenskan and are virtually assured of the title after a 6-2 thrashing of in form third placed IF Brommapojkarna. In front of an impressive crowd of 588, Umeå raced into a 3-0 lead with just nine minutes on the clock thanks to goals from Olivia Holm, Lisa Dahlkvist and Monica Bah. Mathilda Johansson got a goal back on 34 minutes, but within 120 seconds, the hosts re-established their three goal advantage after Vilma Koivisto’s strike. Klara Andrup brought Bromma back to within to goals just after the break, but a second goal from Bah six minutes into the second period settled matters once and for all. The win puts them eight points clear at the top of the table with four games to play. IFK Kalmar went four points clear in second after a routine 3-0 win over Jitex Mölndal. Ohphelia Medhammar put Kalmar ahead just before the quarter hour mark with Tabby Tindell continuing her recent red hot goal scoring form to make it 2-0 just before half-time. Minnie Asperot netted the third with 24 minutes left which ensured the majority of the 148 fans gathered went home happy. IK Uppsala’s continuing slump continued as lost 2-0 at Lidköpings FK. Dorothea Gruelich and Elizabeth Pechersky were on target in front of 100 spectators. At the foot of the table, second bottom Borgeby FB kept alive their slim survival hopes after a dramatic 4-3 win at home to cellar-dwellers Bollstanäs SK. Simone Edefall gave the visitors the lead after 18 minutes, but two goals in a nine minute period put Borgeby ahead thanks to Saga Ollerstam and Erica Welin. Malin Engdahl levelled in first half stoppage time. The twists and turns continued in the second period as once more Borgeby went ahead with Nova Karlsson’s strike but were then pegged back by Linda Niemenen. The decisive goal came fifteen minutes from time from Sofia Anker-Kofoed to the delight of the 95 fans. Bollstanäs are relegated.
Above: Sofia Anker-Kofoed’s goal ensured a vital win for Borgeby FC at the bottom. Photo: Avdo Bilkanovic/Imago
Latest Results: Umeå IK 6-2 IF Brommapojkarna, Borgeby FB 4-3 Bollstanäs SK, Lidköpings FK 2-0 IK Uppsala, Sundsvalls DFF 0-1 Alingsås FC United, Morön BK 1-2 IFK Norrköping, IFK Kalmar 3-0 Jitex Mölndal, Mallbackens IF Sunne 4-2 Älvsjö AIK FF
Next Fixtures: IK Uppsala v IK Brommapojkarna, Jitex Mölndal v Umeå IK, Mallbackens IF Sunne v Sundsvalls DFF, Borgeby FB v IFK Kalmar, Älvsjö AIK FF v Alingsås FC United, Bollstanäs SK v IFK Norrköping, Morön BK v Lidköpings FK.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll
NEWS ROUND-UP:
Tove Enblom has extended her contract with KIF Örebro. The new deal runs until the end of the 2022 season.
Hammarby’s Jonna Andersson has left the club to join Cypriot club Apollon Ladies.
Jean-Pierre Thiesset was pitchside in the Groupama Stadium EXCLUSIVELY for Impetus to report and photograph on the UEFA Women’s Champions League Group D game between Olympique Lyonnais and Benfica.
Above: Melvine Malard’s sensational overhead kick goal which put Lyon 3-0 ahead over Benfica. Photo exclusively for Impetus by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Olympique Lyonnais wrapped up a comfortable 5-0 win over Benfica in front of 4,115 spectators in the Groupama Stadium in the UEFA Women’s Champions League Group D clash.
As Wendie Renard and Griedge MBock were not in the squad for this game due to injury, their places in central defence were taken by Kadeisha Buchanan and Amandine Henry, as for the last D1 Arkema game.
Above: Selma Bacha named player of the match. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Lyon started the match by putting a lot of pressure on Benfica but without being able to score. Around the half-hour mark, the home side began to build more intensity, which enabled them to play higher on the field which resulted in two goals in as many minutes.
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan (on ground) puts Lyon 1-0 up. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
First, after 29th minutes, Kadeisha Buchanan scored after a corner from Catarina Macario was badly cleared by the goalkeeper, and she took advantage. Then, in the 31st minute, Daniëlle Van De Donk scored after being played in by Melvine Malard.
Lyon continued to dominate the rest of the first half without increasing the score despite a lot of opportunities, especially at the last minute, when Catarino Macario sent a free-kick onto the post and Kadeisha Buchanan’s header hit the bar.
Above: Daniëlle Van De Donk (far right) makes it 2-0 for Lyon. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Lyon started the second half stronger than the first half and Benfica players suffocated under their pressure and their quick game. After 10 minutes in this second half, Lyon had already increased the score by two more goals. A wonderful overhead kick goal was executed by Melvine Malard on a cross from Catarina Macario who shortly after added a penalty herself, for her seventh goal in seven games.
Above: Catarina Macario makes it 4-0 from the spot. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Lyon continued to dominate the game and six minutes later, Kadeisha Buchanan flew over everyone to score a header for her second goal on the night from Selma Bacha’s free-kick. Ada Hegerberg replaced Macario at the 67th minute for her first home game in almost two years to a great ovation from the fans who were very glad to see her back. Hegerberg showed that she was already fit to help her teammates to win and caused trouble to the Benfica defenders during the last 15 minutes including almost scoring ten minutes after coming on.
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan leaps higher than the Benfica defence to make it 4-0. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Statistics of the match:
Lyon: 63% of possession, 547 passes (86% successful), 33 shots (20 on target), 13 corners.
Benfica: 37% of possession, 326 passes (79% successful), 7 shots (5 on target), 1 corner.
Above: Aerial action from Huddersfield Town’s away win at Sheffield FC in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Huddersfield Town Women recently rose to third in the FA Women’s National League North following a convincing 3-1 win against West Bromwich Albion Women. This victory also marked an end to a frantic fixture period with three games in eight days – with the Terriers picking up wins in all their games. But how have Huddersfield fared in the league since we last caught up with the West Yorkshire side?
Town opened the season with a goalless draw away to Nottingham Forest, which saw goalkeeper Bethan Davies making an all-important penalty save in the dying moments of the game. The Terriers travelled to Middlesbrough next and picked up their first win of the season with new signing Ria Montgomery scoring alongside Katie Stanley and last year’s top scorer Laura Elford. This game also introduced Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Becky Flaherty to the team, who impressed on her league debut.
Above: Huddersfield Town take on local rivals Brighouse Town in a local derby. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Just three days later Huddersfield welcomed local rivals Brighouse Town to the Stafflex Arena, under the floodlights. Despite being a newly promoted side, both teams had actually met last season in the Women’s FA Cup with the Terriers progressing through to the next round following a penalty shootout. That day the game ended 1-1, and this match was no different with both sides sharing a point after a feisty contest. Brittany Sanderson opened her account for the season.
Huddersfield were back on the road again when they faced Loughborough Lightning at the Holywell Sports Complex. Town ran riot and won the game 5-1 with Elford bagging a brace, Sanderson adding to her goal tally plus Kate Mallin and Lucy Sowerby scoring their first goals of the season. This result meant Town Women went through August unbeaten in the league.
Above: The Terriers had plenty to celebrate during their 5-1 win at Loughborough Lightning. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
September saw Town’s fortunes change with a crushing 4-0 defeat to Burnley away and a narrow 3-2 defeat to league-leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers at home. Some positives were found in the latter performance with the Terriers dealing Wolves’ first conceded goal in the league when Sowerby latched onto a through ball beating the defensive line within the first two minutes of the game. Sanderson scoring her third of the season on the stroke of half time.
In contrast October has been a perfect month for Huddersfield (so far) with all three games played finishing in wins. The Terriers started the month with a 5-1 thrashing of Stoke City at home, which saw new boss Steve Appleton face his former side. Mallin and Sanderson both scoring a brace, with Serena Fletcher scoring her first goal of the season.
Above: Frustration shows after a narrow loss for Huddersfield Town against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Just four days later Town travelled to Sheffield FC and continued their winning streak with a 6-0 victory under the floodlights. This clean sheet was only Town’s second of the season and Flaherty’s first. Sanderson continued her goalscoring form with another brace, meanwhile Elford came off the bench to score two goals in five minutes. Mallin and Montgomery were the other two scorers on a successful evening.
This past Sunday (10th October) Town won their third consecutive game. A 3-1 win against the Baggies meant Huddersfield rose to third in the league table, the highest position they had reached all season. Elford followed her previous brace with another two goals – the first coming just 14 seconds into the game! Meanwhile, Fletcher scored her second of the season directly from a cross to secure all three points for the visitors.
A natural pause in the schedule sees Huddersfield not in league action until Halloween, when they face on-form Derby County at home. Appleton will be hoping his side can continue their winning streak into November as they slowly climb up the league table.
Above: Huddersfield Town pictured prior to their opening game of the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier game away to Nottingham Forest. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Above: Pride Park’s Annie Laight (9) is foiled by a combination of the Colts ‘keeper and defender when the two sides met at Wirksworth in April 2021. Photo: Shaun Hardwick
This weekend, Pride Park host Wirksworth Colts in the Derbyshire Ladies League Division One at Moorways (Sunday, 1.30pm). Both teams have had reasonably stable squads in recent seasons but Wirksworth have strengthened since last season, signing several former SK Vipers players after the Buxton based team folded shortly before the start of this season.
The Colts have made a strong start to the season, keeping clean sheets in their first two games to secure a narrow win by the odd goal against Belper Town, and running riot with six against Mickleover. Although their winning start was halted when coming up against Draycott Victoria in their third game, they fared the best of the current champions’ five opponents to date in a 1-3 loss.
Above: Otty Baker takes on a Wirksworth player when the two sides met at Moorways in October 2020. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
With just three games played, Wirksworth lie fourth in Division One, with six points, one place ahead of Pride Park who have three points from their four games. Wirksworth have scored eight goals in their three games, with Vicki Cook leading the way with three goals, ahead of Georgia Williams with two. The Pride have found the net an 15 times in their four games, with Summer Evans scoring six and Annie Laight scoring five, whilst conceding 14 goals. The trick for Pride Park is to tighten up at the back without sacrificing their attacking potency – they’ll be hoping to see striker Evans return from illness to face Wirksworth on Sunday.
The teams have met on 12 occasions in cups and league, most memorably in the 2017/18 season when they completed the season with four consecutive fixtures – the first two games being the League Cup and Challenge Cup finals at Matlock, with Wirksworth running out winners in extremely close fought games by scorelines of 3-1 and 2-1 respectively. Pride Park bounced back the following week with a resounding 7-1 win in the league, and the final game in the series was a rather freakish 6-6 draw to conclude the season.
Above: Pride Park’s Tash Allderidge (5) gets a header in on the Wirksworth goal when the two sides met at Moorways in October 2020. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
In recent seasons the teams have been fairly evenly matched and have played some entertaining and close games, which was also the case when they met in pre-season.
Over the 12 games the teams have played, Pride Park have won six, Wirksworth winning four and two have been drawn, and there has been a total of 72 goals scored. At the risk of jinxing this Sunday’s game, there has never been a goalless game between the sides and with an average of six goals per game, it should be another entertaining encounter.
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