Canada Advance To Semis

Canada 0-0 Brazil

After Extra Time, Canada win 4-3 penalties

Above: Canada celebrate their win over Brazil on penalties which sets up yet another Olympic semi-final. Photo: Getty Images.

By Catherine Paquette

The Canada-Brazil match was a clash of Olympic giants.  Canada entered the match as back-to-back Olympic bronze medalists, participating in their fourth consecutive Games.  Head coach Bev Priestman has not shied away from stating that Canada’s goal this Olympics is to change the colour of their medal.

Brazil has participated in every Olympic women’s football tournament. They have won silver twice, in 2004 and 2008, were eliminated at the quarter final phase at London 2021 and finished fourth three times.  The most recent fourth place finish was arguably the most difficult, when they lost the bronze medal to Canada at their home Rio Olympic Games.  

This next Olympic meeting therefore had added significance for the two teams.  It also had added significance because both sides had legends who may have played in what was going to be their last Olympic match. 

I do not use this word legend lightly. For Canada their captain Christine Sinclair is the all time leader for international goals scored for men or women and one of only four international players of either sex with more than 300 international appearances.  

For Brazil, Formiga is currently the oldest female football Olympian and has participated in every Olympic competition since the sport expanded on the women’s side in 1996.  There are ten players from both squads of this match that were born after Formiga became an Olympian for the first time.

At 38 years of age for Sinclair and 43 years of age for Formiga, there was a chance that the end of this quarter-final would be the final time either of these players as an Olympian.  Despite their respective ages, both players were in their respective nation’s starting line-ups.  

The Canadians for their part lined up in a 4-3-1-2, a formation used with success against Chile. Several players that had been rested or started on the bench against Team GB returned to the starting lineup, notably Allysha Chapman, Desire Scott, Jessie Fleming and Sinclair. Vanessa Gilles, who had started the last game in place of Shelina Zadorsky was chosen to continue her centre-back pairing with Kadeisha Buchanan.  

The Brazilians for their part stayed with a 4-4-2.  They also had several changes, with Debinha, Andressinha, Duda, Tamires, Bruna and Erica returning to the starting line-ups. Like every match this tournament, Formiga started in midfield.

The game started with a scare in the first ten minutes.  As Sinclair was coming down from a header attempt, her head collided with the knee of Buchanan.  After several minutes of medical attention she was deemed OK to continue the match.  The early possible loss of Canada’s captain did not faze either side.  

Both teams took shots on goal, most missing the mark.  The first real chance for Canada came in the 21st minute when a good pass from Ashley Lawrence into the box trying to find Sinclair deflected off her chest towards goal and was saved by Brazil’s Bárbara.

A VAR review occurred at the 35th minute to determine if Canada’s Chapman had caused a foul in the box.  The review decided she had not.  Five minutes later Debinha stole a ball Gilles was trying to clear out of the Canadian defence and she took a shot on goal.  Stephanie Labbé made the save for Canada.  

The second half also saw several goal attempts from both sides.  Brazil’s Andressinha had a shot saved by Labbé in the 55th minute that then nearly spilled into Canada’s goal. Canada had a good chance on goal four minutes later when Gilles’ header hit Brazil’s goalpost. A few other shots occurred but the score line remained 0-0 and the teams headed to extra time. 

The additional 30 minutes of play did not change this score line.  Brazil did come close in the final minutes of extra-time, when they mounted multiple attacks on the Canadian goal.  Labbé did her job well and kept the clean sheet. She then seemed to be injured in the final minute of extra-time, when she made a nasty landing after defending a ball in the air.  

After several minutes of medical attention she got back up.  Shortly after, both teams headed to penalty kicks.  This is where the real drama started.

Above: Stephanie Labbé’s penalty saves catapulted Canada into the semi-finals yet again. Photo: @stephlabbe1

Canada were first to kick, with Sinclair being the first kicker. To every Canadian fans’ shock, her shot was saved by Bárbara.  Brazil and Canada then put in their next three kicks.  At 3-3 with Brazil taking their fourth kick, Labbé came to Canada’s rescue and saved Andressa’s attempt.  Canada’s Gilles then put in a fourth for Canada.  

Labbé then sent the Canadians to the semi-finals for the third Olympics in a row when she saved Rafaelle’s penalty kick.  The Canadians won it 3-4 on penalty kicks. 

Overall though Canada has continued its underperformance offensively.  While Canadian players took as many shots this match as their Brazilian counterparts this, only one was on frame.  Brazil by comparison had four.  In total Canada have had seven shots on target this tournament. 

Part of the reason for the lack of Canadian offence  in this match is that Brazil did well to contain Canada’s offence.  A startling example of this is the fact that Sinclair only got 16 touches on the ball in the first half.  

Another, more serious reason is the Canadians themselves.  Their defence has been relatively strong this tournament.  The centre-backs and defensive midfielder Desiree Scott are quite effective this game at getting the ball out from the defence and passing it to move the ball forward. 

Above: Joyous scenes among the Canadian squad. Photo: @stephlabbe1

The Canadians movement forward has been attempted both through the middle of the park and out wide.  Lawrence has been particularly effective and threatening this tournament when bringing the ball forward out wide and giving service inside the box.  She has been Canada’s best player for most of the tournament, showing all the defensive and offensive skills on prizes in a modern day fullback.  

Like Lawrence, certain players have had moments where they have shone, Beckie, Prince and Rose in the group stage, but none of those moments came simultaneously.  None of the Canadian midfield and forwards have clicked together at the same time. Canada over all throughout the tournament has struggled creating chances in the final third. The more the ball has progressed up the field the less effective they have been.  

In this match passes often were short into the final third, requiring players to slow down to retrieve them and thus cutting Canadian momentum.  There were times that players, specifically Beckie and Fleming, made similar runs into the box thus minimizing their offensive potential.  Moreover, the Canadian offence was often very compact making it easier to defend them.  

Canada does have the capability of scoring.  In the run up for this tournament their scoring was not dependent on one player, which is arguably a good thing.  As they enter the final next match though they will need to find more synergy up front and to finish their chances.  If not they could be going back to the Bronze medal match.

Teams: CANADA: Labbé, Chapman, Buchanan, Lawrence, Gilles, Quinn, Scott, Sinclair, Fleming, Prince, Beckie. Subs used: Rose, Grosso, Riviere, Leon.

Scorers (Penalty Shoot Out): Sinclair (missed), Fleming (scored), Lawrence (scored), Leon (scored), Gilles (scored).

BRAZIL: Bárbara, Érika, Rafaelle, Tamires, Bruna, Duda, Formiga, Marta, Andressinha, Debina, Beatriz. Subs used: Angelina, Ludmila, Andressa.

Scorers: (Penalty Shoot Out): Marta (scored), Debinha (scored), Érika (scored), Andressa (missed), Rafaelle (missed).

Referee: Stéphanie Frappart (FRA)

Impetus Announces Sponsorship of Sasha Sparkes

In the latest hugely exciting player sponsorship and club partnership move, Impetus are proud to announce that we will be sponsoring Helston Athletic’s goalscorer supreme, Sasha Sparkes for the new season. Impetus editor Ben Gilby spoke to Sasha.

Sasha Sparkes is a player with a quite phenomenal scoring record for Helston Athletic. A tally of 144 goals in 49 games of which last season’s total of 41 goals in 16 games is staggering. Sasha is one player that is worthy of huge respect.

Sasha is exceptionally proud to be Cornish born and bred: “I come from a big happy family. I was born June 24th 1991 in Truro. We lived in Penryn and then moved to Falmouth when I was four. I’ve lived in Falmouth ever since. Falmouth for me is more than just a base, it’s the definition of home. It really is a beautiful place to live. I consider myself very lucky that I am only a two minute drive away from the beaches.” 

Sasha moved on to fill us in on her footballing story: “I’ve been playing football since I was about 10 years old. I have my Dad to thank for that. He has always been very passionate about Smara (my twin sister) and myself playing the sport. We have always been quite sporty since we were little. We lived across the road from a field and any time my dad wasn’t working he would take us over to the field and practice our basics. Kicking, dribbling, all of the stuff needed that I use today. It was in that field where we got spotted from a manager from Falmouth Town Girls U12’s.”

“We weren’t long with Falmouth Town U12’s as our friends played for Falmouth United U12’s, inevitably being young we wanted to play with our friends. Our manager Steve Oliver was a fantastic coach. It was there that we won the league four seasons on the trot. We were unstoppable. After that, for a couple of seasons, football kind of just halted. Back then there wasn’t really much of a transition from U14’s to U16’s. My friends and I played for the school team but not many games were organised so we found ourselves back in the field where it all started playing BUTT slaps or World Cup.”

 “I finally turned 16 and I was introduced to the ladies game. What a difference! Seven a side to eleven a side. Thirty minute halves to forty-five minute halves. It was a huge transition but one that I welcomed. I played for Penryn Ladies for a couple of seasons and we did well, but like most ladies teams, after a while they folded. It was there that I had a phone call from Neil Phillips, a manager that played a massive role in the player I am today. He asked me to join Falmouth Town Ladies as he had a good set up with lots of decent players signing on. I signed on, worked hard and that team was one of the best teams I have ever played for. Neil worked us hard at training, hours and hours of hill sprints, bleep tests and two touch football. At the time I hated the training but the team he created and the fitness, skill and stamina of all on the pitch was truly noticeable against other teams. It was here I was partnered with Katy Barker up the top and what a truly awesome partnership we had. It was either one or the other for league top goal scorer through the seasons, we didn’t mind who got it as long as it was someone from our team.”

 “I can’t remember which way around it was, but between Falmouth Town Ladies and Truro City Ladies we became 1st and 2nd in the league and were promoted to Premier Division. With players going off to university and other reasons, Neil took the chance to merge the two clubs together at Truro City. It was very hard putting the two together as we all played differently. It didn’t take long though before we started gelling as a team and our first season in the Premier Division we became league runners up. What a great finish after being promoted. It was then players decided the travel wasn’t worth the next division. Being all the way down in Cornwall and being hundreds of miles away from top teams, its hard finding committed players to travel on a Sunday.”

Above: Sasha Sparkes – a Cornish goal scoring phenomenon. Photo: Harry Price.

 “I had a season out after that and that’s when Helston Ladies was formed by Stu Massey and with the help of Charlotte Sparkes-Bond. Helston had great facilities and a great pitch. Steve Massey was always helping to run the line for us and supporting us in any way that he could. Stu drove us to success and we became League Cup Winners and League runners-up. For whatever reasons, Helston then decided to fold and I had a season out. As any player would say I hung up my boots, everyone knows it’s never for very long.”

“My sister signed for Illogan Ladies and I would go to support them. It didn’t take very long for myself to miss football and I signed for a few games. My heart was still with Helston and its set up, so when I got a message from Paul Parfitt that he was setting the women’s team back up, we had a chat over coffee and I liked the plans he had for the team. I signed for the team and that brings us up to present day.”

We then moved onto Sasha’s incredible goal scoring record. For her, part of the story is down to circumstances: “Helston lost the battle to enter a higher league when the club was first set up. The appeal caught attention from Richard and Warren from Cornwall FA who supported Helston with their case, but unfortunately it was unsuccessful. This then meant we had to enter the Cornwall Women’s Football League (CWFL) at the bottom of the football tier.  I’m an experienced player and have been playing for 18 years and found my experience within that league beneficial to these statistics. My role as a striker is to put the ball in the back of the net, regardless of the team and the ability in front of me. That being said, I score against everyone I’ve played against regardless of their perceived level, teams such as Illogan, FXU, Saltash and Marine Academy Plymouth in the FA Cup. I have the ability to score at all levels.” 

Like any good striker though, Sasha recognises that she is only as good as the structure of the club she is part of and the players who surround her: “The set up I have at Helston is like no other team I have played for. It’s honestly incredible the facilities and coaching that is offered at Helston. Firstly the manager Paul Parfitt puts the women first in everything he does. He makes sure the morale in the team is up, organises all the matches, the training, all of the social media posts, picks the team every week and liaising with our coach Martyn Pennington who is also a massive part of Helston. Paul and Martyn are a great team who work so well together. They make the smooth running of the club look very easy and behind the scenes I see how much effort they both put in and it reflects on the team. They personally give me constructive criticism after every match which I look forward to in order to improve my game, without it I wouldn’t learn to be a better player.”

“On the pitch, I’m only as good as the service I receive, which is bloody brilliant. I honestly play with the nicest bunch of women who know exactly how I play. Without my team mates I wouldn’t be able to get to the stats I have today.”

The obvious next question to ask though is, with such an incredible goal scoring record and goals-to-game ratio, does Sparkes have any desire to play at a higher level? 

“I’m very happy with where I am at with Helston Women,” Sasha replies, “Our goals are to win this league and get promoted and then win the league after that. This plan is near enough in the distant future but not so far we can’t reach it.  I believe a back to back promotion is a sufficient challenge for myself and Helston Women as a club as a starting point. This season we did very well in the FA Cup and we played FA Women’s National League side Southampton FC Women at home – what a tie that was – I hope next season we can go through the rounds and at least make the First Proper Round of the FA Cup.” 

Above: Sasha in action for Helston against FA Women’s National League side Southampton in the FA Cup this season. Photo: Matt Friday.

Earlier in our conversation, Sasha mentioned playing football with her twin sister Smara as a child. The pair are still going strong together today at Helston, with Impetus delighted to be sponsoring both of the sisters: “I absolutely love playing with my twin. All of my success with football I have shared with her. We have quite the trophy hoard! Smara is quite modest and doesn’t actually know how much of a good player she is, I think that’s a great quality to have, she doesn’t need to boast as her football does the talking.”

“She’s played sweeper for many years and I trust her back there with any challenges she faces! Smara is one of the most technically gifted players in the team and her main strength is her faultless ability when she has a ball at her feet. She is one of the best sweepers I have ever come across along with Tyler Mathews from Callington Ladies. When they played together at Truro City they were a force to be reckoned with.” 

With Sasha well into her eighteenth year playing the game, I wondered what was the greatest challenge she has faced in that time? “My biggest challenge I would say for myself would be the transition from U16’s to Ladies football. It was a massive thing to do and adapt to the adult game. Luckily U16’s in this day don’t have to worry too much about it. I think there is now a great stepping stone for the girls especially at Helston Women where we are looking to set up a development squad to introduce the adult game to them.” 

“Our club ambition of the team is to win the South-West Women’s Football League (SWWFL), progress further in the FA Cup next season and win a County Cup in the next few seasons. This we hope will then create a platform for the best local players to come to us, meaning they will not have to travel to other clubs to meet the expectations. The ambition of Paul Parfitt and Paul Hendy is to turn Helston in to a powerhouse for women’s football in Cornwall. It is extremely exciting and inspiring to be part of, let alone captain the team!”

We ended the conversation by exploring what makes Sasha tick as a person. In terms of her own sporting heroes, despite having been an unashamed Red, her real hero can be found in Cornwall.

“To be honest with you, I used to be a glorified Liverpool fan and used to follow players back in 2010 when the likes of Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso played (world great players). But for me my footballing hero is a bit closer to home. My dad, as cliché as that sounds. He was a great player when he was younger. I hear many of stories about how good of a player he was. He’s taught me everything I know and has always been there for me and Smara, the cold Sunday mornings, the summer football tournaments, the football night’s out and presentations, Cornwall trials and the training sessions. He hasn’t missed one of our games, and believe me that is a lot of games! I owe a lot of my football success to him.”  

Off the pitch, life for Sasha revolves around her job and partner Ellie: “I’ve worked in the cash office for Tesco’s for just over 10 years and I love my job. I have the perfect work hours and having the weekends off means I can still play football without having to get it covered. When I’m not at work or playing football I’m normally in the gym or out running. I’ve always liked to take care of myself. Having a partner who also likes to do them things is a bonus also. Our cheat days are Saturdays so we always like to find a new restaurant that we haven’t been to around Cornwall and get ourselves a well-deserved coffee and cake.”

The Swedish Scene

@DandalBs brings us our weekly round-up of all the news from the Swedish domestic game. As well as the national team reaching the semi-finals at the Olympics, it’s been a busy week of transfers.

Above: Sweden celebrate reaching the Semi-Finals at the Olympics yesterday with victory over host nation Japan. Photo: Getty Images

NEWS ROUND-UP:

FA Women’s Super League side Arsenal have confirmed the signing Frida Maanum after she recently departed Linköping after four years. The 22 year-old who can play in defence or midfield scored 22 goals in 80 games for Linköping and holds 33 caps for Norway, for whom she represented in the 2017 UEFA European Championships.

Linköping have announced the arrival of Ukrainian national team player Nadiia Kunina on a three and a half year contract. The 21 year-old has been with Champions League competitor Zhytlobud-1 since she was 18 and “can play in all offensive positions”.

Julia Karlernäs has joined BK Häcken after a year with Spanish side Sevilla. The 27 year-old midfielder, who has previously won the Damallsvenskan with Piteå, holds five caps for Sweden. She signs on a two and a half year deal.

Above: Teagan Micah, heading to Damallsvenskan leaders Rosengård. Photo: Football Australia.

Rosengård’s signing spree continues with the arrival of Australia’s hugely impressive Olympic goalkeeper Teagan Micah. The 23 year-old is in fine form in recent months after a stellar W-League season with Melbourne City. She joins from top Norwegian side Sandviken on a two year contract. Although they have not commented, Micah’s arrival suggests that current first choice goalkeeper, Canadian international Stephanie Labbé is going elsewhere, with Paris St. Germain rumoured.

Danish defender Kamilla Karlsen joins Djurgården from Fleury 91 in the French D1. The 21 year-old has experience from several years with top Copenhagen side Bröndby and has represented the Danish youth national teams. She will cover the loss of Gudrun Arnardottir, who went to Rosengård.

Vittsjö forward Beatrice Persson has left club for Danish side Brøndby. This means it is a possibility that she will play in their upcoming UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Kristianstad in August. The 21 year-old has mostly played as a substitute this season.

Växjö have announced the signing of 20 year-old Australian defender Winonah Heatley. The youngster had a hugely impressive season in the W-League with Brisbane Roar last time round and this is her first move outside of Australia.

Above: Winonah Heatley – the latest young Australian to move to the Damallsvenskan as she joins Växjö. Photo: Cairns Post.

Djurgården has signed 18 year-old talent Alice Bergströmfrån from Elitettan side Älvsjö. The young winger will see out the 2021 season with Älvsjö before making the move to Djurgården.

KIF Örebro’s leading goal scorer Karin Lundin, who scored 11 goals last season will be leaving for a yet unnamed European club, although there is strong speculation that it will be Fiorentina.

DAMALLSVENSKAN:   

Table from: svenskfotball.se

The Damallsvenskan is presently on a break for the Olympic Games and returns on 20th August with the set of fixtures below:

Round Thirteen Fixtures:

Växjö v Vittsjö

Hammarby v Eskilstuna United

AIK v Djurgården

Piteå v Linköping

Rosengård v KIF Örebro

Kristianstads v BK Häcken

ELITETTAN

The Elitettan is on a break until the next round of matches which will be played on 7-8th August. The games scheduled for those dates are shown below:

Next matches: IF Brommapojkarna, IFK Norrköping, Bollstanäs SK v Jitex Mölndal, IFK Kalmar v Alingsås FC United, IK Uppsala v Älvsjö AIK FF, Mallbackens IF Sunne v Lidköpings FK, Sundsvalls DFF v Morön BK, Umeå IK v Borgeby FK.

Table from: svenskfotball.se

Matildas Historic Win Built On Flexibility & New Found Depth

Impetus’ Kieran Yap reflects on Australia’s dramatic victory over Great Britain, and how the Tony Gustavsson era is beginning to show new opportunities and new hope.

Above: The Australian squad come together after yesterday’s match with Great Britain. Photo: Getty Images.

In previous tournaments the biggest issue with The Matildas has been flexibility and depth.

In 2019 an injury to Clare Polkinghorne required a mass reshuffle. Steph Catley had to be moved to center back to cover and Elise Kellond-Knight shifted from midfield to left back.

Emily van Egmond dropped deeper but had to take on more defensive duties (this part was weird because Aivi Luik was right there) and although they survived the group there was a feeling left of what could have been.

The 2021 Matildas look to have solved these problems for the time being.  The new defensive setup switches between a back three and a back four depending on the state of play, but crucially it allows for the use of one recognized central defender.

It allows Polkinghorne or Kennedy to be rested when the need it and the hectic Olympic schedule has definitely required it. The defensive security that having Carpenter shifting more central on occasion means that van Egmond, although playing deep, is not required to be a midfield destroyer.

She still breaks up play, but she is a contributor rather than being entirely relied upon.

Above: The Australian team post match huddle after victory against Great Britain. Photo: Football Australia.

Catley and Carpenter can still get forward and it is slightly sad that they are not as free-wheeling as they were against New Zealand but Carpenter’s role in snuffing out the threat of Megan Rapinoe and then Lauren Hemp went a long way to this run to the semi finals.

Hemp was still dangerous but not decisively so, Carpenter was again sensational in a mostly defensive role.

In midfield, the depth has also improved. Kyra Cooney-Cross has gone from U20 player, to starring with two W-League sides to become a genuine option in a Matildas midfield. She looks right at home and has allowed Chloe Logarzo to take her time in finding fitness.

The resurgence of the previously underused Tameka Yallop has given Australia another box to box midfielder. She can impact the game in both aspects of the sport and has reduced the impact of a Kellond-Knight sized absence.

Up front, Gustavsson has trusted Mary Fowler, not to train with the team, not to gain experience, but to impact the game.

She was impressive against Denmark in a friendly, dangerous against the U.S.A and delivered when it mattered most against Team GB.

Is Australia too reliant on Sam Kerr? Perhaps but it works for now and if Fowler keeps improving this will not be a question asked much longer.

Australia have improved in the last three months, they have made a semi final of a major tournament and unearthed new possibilities with player and tactics.

They have a chance at a medal but they have also built a chance at lasting success.

Photo: Football Australia.

Matildas Waltz Into The Semis After Drama Filled GB Battle

Great Britain 3-4 Australia

By Ben Gilby

Pictured above: Sam Kerr after scoring Australia’s last gasp equaliser towards the end of normal time. Photo: Getty Images.

The Matildas ran out victors in one of the most dramatic games you could imagine in Kashima.

It was a game that swung this way and that, with incredible comebacks, a missed penalty and two teams giving it everything.

Going into the match, there was talk about the potential defensive difficulties that the sides have experienced and there is no doubt that several of the goals in this encounter fell under the category of less than impressive defending.

Australia started strongly and looked to pass and move at every opportunity. They were looking to target the Team GB back line who had both Steph Houghton and Leah Williamson pushing up together from the back.

The first shot on target came after five minutes when Lauren Hemp was held back by Hayley Raso. Caroline Weir took and found Keira Walsh, but Teagan Micah grabbed the shot.

Great Britain had another opportunity seven minutes later when Hemp broke through and found Rachel Daly, but her effort was over.

Shortly afterwards, Demi Stokes and Hemp combined to play in Walsh whose shot came back off the post. Great Britain hit the woodwork once more on 23 minutes when Daly’s shot hit bar and post with the ball rebounding back to Hemp whose volley was brilliantly saved by Micah.

Australia’s backline saw Aivi Luik return in place of Clare Polkinghorne. Alanna Kennedy retained her spot with Ellie Carpenter at right back once more. Yet one clear difference in the back three set up was the fact that Carpenter was no longer bombing forward to offer her speed in attack as she is wont to do – a tactical change from Tony Gustavsson.

The Matildas became seen more often from an attacking perspective as the game passed the half hour mark with Kerr winning a corner from Stokes.

It was from a corner that the first goal went in, and it was a result defensive frailties rearing their head.

Above: Alanna Kennedy gets above the Team GB defence to head Australia in front. Photo: Getty Images.

Great Britain struggled to defend a high ball in and, despite the close attention of Demi Stokes and Leah Williamson, who failed to get off the ground, Kennedy rose to head Australia in front after 36 minutes.

Also of concern for the British in the opening half was the fact that White was on the periphery. They would need that to change to get back into the match.

After the break, Australia fashioned another opportunity when Carpenter’s throw found Kerr who shot over.

Gradually though as the game neared the hour mark, Great Britain, largely due to the increased influence of Hemp, became far more threatening.

The Norfolk born striker forced Micah into a save on 56 minutes and shortly afterwards she played a dangerous ball in towards White who beat Kennedy in the air and won a corner from Carpenter.

Above: Ellen White celebrates after another vital goal for Great Britain. Photo: Getty Images.

Great Britain managed to equalise and took advantage of a dangerous ball in from Hemp which was met by White, who got between Kennedy and Carpenter to head brilliantly into the far corner of the net.

Australia came perilously close to levelling the scores on the hour mark when Kerr’s cross was met by the head of Catley and deflected off of Houghton and onto the bar before GB cleared.

Shortly afterwards, Great Britain went ahead when a ball in saw Carpenter beaten in the air. Luik and Kennedy got in each other’s way in trying to clear and the ball fell to White who gleefully smashed her country ahead with 24 minutes left.

Raso was recognising the danger posed by Hemp and put in several important challenges including a magnificent one in the penalty area.

It was all Great Britain now and with ten minutes left, Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson made three changes with Mary Fowler replacing Simon, Emily Gielnik on for Luik and Kyra Cooney-Cross for Foord. This saw Catley drop back to defence.

The Matildas rallied at the death with Carpenter combining well with Kerr who played a lovely ball in for Gielnik but the Swedish based striker blazed wide with four minutes left.

Two minutes later, Chloe Logarzo was introduced for Raso ahead of the first piece of many examples of real drama in this clash.

Catley bent a pass in, Bronze got her head on it, but the ball went to Kerr in the box who chested it down and got a shot away at the second attempt which flew in and scores were level with just over a minute left.

With the game going into extra-time, Britain looked to take advantage of Australia’s more conservative approach at the start of the additional half hour. Walsh wasn’t closed down by the Matildas defence allowing her to get a powerful shot away which Micah did well to hold.

Within sixty seconds, Micah was called into action once more as Fran Kirby dinked a ball over the top for White who was denied by the Australian keeper.

Above: Teagan Micah saves Caroline Weir’s penalty. Photo: Getty Images

Then came the big moment of the game with five minutes of the first period of extra time played. Nikita Parris went down in the box after a collision with Carpenter and referee Salima Mukansanga pointed to the spot. Up stepped Weir, but Micah read her like a book and saved well.

Just three minutes after the penalty miss, Great Britain slipped behind. A ball forward found teenage striker Fowler. The Cairns born starlet controlled it, turned and smashed a sensational effort which deflected off of Bronze, giving Ellie Roebuck no chance.

Another three minutes passed and Great Britain had their heads in their hands as, despite being three inches smaller, Kerr leapt above Houghton to head past Roebuck to put the Matildas 4-2 up, equalling the all-time Australian women’s goal scoring record in the process with 47.

Above: Sam Kerr’s two goals for Australia see her equal Lisa De Vanna’s tally at the top of the Matildas all time scoring chart. Photo: Getty Images.

But, the drama had still not finished. Five minutes from the end, a typically pin point cross from Kirby found White who, once more got between Australian defenders with ease to score and the deficit was just a single goal once more.

Despite Team GB’s best efforts, they could not break through the massed ranks of green and gold as Australia advanced to the semi-finals, their best ever run in the Olympics.

Speaking after the game, Australia’s captain Sam Kerr said: “I can’t explain how proud I am to be a part of this team and to lead this team out. Every day they surprise me.

“We’ve got kids out there, we’ve got Mary (Fowler) who is 18 and I’m just so proud of everyone.

“I haven’t seen some of these girls for two years and then we come out here and we play against teams who have been playing together for so long.

“We feel the love from home and we’re doing everything we can to make you proud. I hope you all felt it today, so let’s go the mighty Aussies.”

The Matildas are improving with every match they play. They are following Tony Gustavsson’s “One Day Better” mantra and are more organised than they have been for a long time. This plus their traditional Never Say Die spirit marks them out as potentially a very good team.

Whether they are good enough to beat Sweden in the semi-finals is another matter, but for now they will enjoy the way they won this match.

Teams: GREAT BRITAIN: Roebuck, Bronze, Houghton, Williamson, Stokes, Walsh, Weir, Daly, Little, Hemp, White. Subs: Ingle (for Walsh 96), Parris (for Hemp 96), Kirby (for Daly 58), Telford (GK), Bright (for Stokes 58), Stanway, Scott (for Little 80).

Scorers: White 57, 66, 115.

AUSTRALIA: Micah, Carpenter, Kennedy, Luik, Raso, Van Egmond, Yallop, Catley, Simon, Foord, Kerr. Subs: Williams (GK), Cooney-Cross (for Foord 80), Polkinghorne (for Cooney-Cross 108), Logarzo (for Raso 88), Fowler (for Simon 80), Gielnik (for Luik 80), Brock.

Scorers: Kennedy 35. Kerr 89, 106. Fowler 93.

Referee: Salima Mukansanga (RWA).

Olympics QF Preview with Wroxham’s Harriet Meers

Ahead of tomorrow’s Quarter-Finals ties, Harriet Meers from Wroxham Women, one of Impetus’ partner clubs, previews all of the games.

Canada v Brazil

Above: Canada’s icon Christine Sinclair. Photo: News 1130.

Canada have started this tournament solidly, but haven’t demonstrated the danger that they could possess with the talent they have within the squad.

With players such as Allysha Chapman, Christine Sinclair and Ashley Lawrence they should be causing more problems then they are. Sinclair, the Canadian captain, has 187 goals within her 301 appearances for country. Therefore, we should expect more goals to come and for her to be a player for the Brazilian defence to have to keep a close eye on.

In theory, Canada should be defensively strong, but they have conceded late goals in two of their three games. These late goals have cost Canada the wins and resulted in draws against Great Britain and Japan. Brazil have been offensively dictating with nine goals to date. However, it could be said they have looked a bit porous at the back against the Netherlands but is it any wonder with the form that squad are on!

Great Britain v Australia

Above: Ellen White – in fine goal scoring form for Great Britain. Photo: The Guardian.

Team GB finished top of Group E after a late equaliser against Canada and now face Australia, led by Chelsea striker Sam Kerr.

The first thing that can be said for Great Britain and Australia is the defensive issues that both teams seem to have. The cause of GB’s draw against Canada came from the defence switching off which could be costly if it occurs against the Matildas. It would be great to put this down to a one off mistake but this is something the Lionesses have been prone to over the last 12 months.

The Matildas’ new head coach, Tony Gustavsson, has switched the formation from five at the back to three which could be an effective tactic but currently remains a work in progress.

Despite a goalless draw against the USA, the Australian side played a well organised and professional game which impressed. If GB switch off once again the threat will come from the likes of Ellie Carpenter, Emily Gielnik and Kyah Simon, with teenager Mary Fowler also looking impressive against the USA offensively.

Great Britain have scored four goals after the group stages, three of which came from Ellen White and the last goal from Caroline Weir against Canada. For Team GB to make the semi-finals and have the chance of placing a medal position, they must stay switched on at the back and be more attack minded. Personally, I hope Ellen White has plenty more goals to come in this Olympic Games.

Sweden v Japan

Above: Sweden’s Stina Blackstenius – carrying club goal scoring form with BK Häcken into the Olympics with her country. Photo: Getty Images.

It could be argued that Japan are lucky to have made the last eight and therefore Sweden have the easiest quarter final draw.

Sweden have been on form and finished their group top after three wins. Contrastingly, Japan narrowly made the cut after a one goal win against Chile placing them third in Group E.

Sweden have a great mix of experienced players such as defender Magda Eriksson and promising young stars such as Hanna Bennison as well as a forward, Stina Blackstenius, in great form with three goals in the group stage.

Out of all of the teams that have reached the quarter finals, Japan have the lowest FIFA World Ranking. Ultimately, Japan could be described as a work in progress and their physicality is unlikely to match up to the Swedes.

The main player to watch from Japan is Mana Iwabuchi, recently signed by Arsenal, who scored in their opening game against Canada. Unfortunately for Japan, it is unlikely that Iwabuchi will be enough to carry the team to the semis against the on form Swedes.

Netherlands v USA

Above: Netherlands’ Vivianne Miedema – an incredible goal scoring return of eight in three matches at these Olympics. Photo: Getty Images.

The Netherlands have been goal scoring machines in their three group games processing to the quarter finals with 21 goals already under their belt.

Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedema has carried through brilliant form to the Olympics and has scored eight goals in the group stages so she could be a player to watch alongside Lieke Martens.

However, they face 2012 Olympic gold medallists, current World champions and FIFA ranked number one side, USA. Despite coming to the tournament with an unbeaten 44 game run, so far the United States have not had their best Games and deservedly lost against Sweden in their opener.

The issues with the USA seem to sit with their defence. Rapinoe needs to find some more strength to hold off the Netherlands attack having been outmuscled off the ball one too many times.

Providing the Dutch play the way they have attacked the games so far, they should have no problem making the semi and facing the winner of Canada v Brazil to be in with a chance of taking home the gold medal.

Harriet’s Predicted Medal Finishers:

Gold – Netherlands

Silver – Sweden

Bronze – Great Britain

Artwork: Graphics by PW.

Jets Co-Captains Sign On For Another Year

Newcastle Jets‘ preparations for the next W-League season are underway with key names being secured for another campaign.

Pictured above: Gema Simon, centre, celebrates with her Newcastle Jets team-mates. Photo: Getty Images.

Newcastle Jets followed up the recent news of a new contract for highly respected head coach Ash Wilson by announcing yesterday that co-captains Gema Simon and Cassidy Davis have signed on for another season.

Simon has 138 W-League games to her name and scored 10 goals in her career making the left-back a stalwart of the Jets side and part of the club for 2008’s inaugural W-League season.

“I love playing for my hometown and representing the people of Newcastle,” Simon said.

“This will be my 13th season with the Jets and honestly there is nowhere else I’d rather play.

“I’m not sure how many more I’ll have left, so I’ll be savouring every moment and focusing on ensuring I am as prepared as possible to help the team succeed this upcoming season.”

With 11 Matildas caps under her belt, the 30-year-old was a key signing for W-League Coach Ash Wilson.

Above: Gema Simon and Cassidy Davis’ re-signing is hugely important for Newcastle Jets. Artwork: W-League

“To have Gem back on board for another season with the Jets is very pleasing,” Wilson said.  

“She is our most capped W-League player and her leadership and experience has been invaluable to this team both on and off the pitch.

“The attributes she brings to both our attack and defence will also play a key role in the type of performances we want to produce.”

The retention of Cassidy Davis was also hugely important for the Jets. Debuting for the club in 2013, Davis has played 97 games across eight seasons and holds the record for consecutive W-League appearances.

The 26-year-old local product said it was important to her on a personal note, to remain a one-team player.

“I’m delighted to stay on with my hometown club,” Davis said.

Above: Cassidy Davis (6) with her Jets team mates in the W-League last season. Photo: Ashley Feder/Getty Images

“I’ve played the past eight seasons with the Jets and I don’t think there is a better place or team for me.

“I’m looking forward to the upcoming campaign and to seeing what our W-League team can achieve.

“It’s a really exciting time to be at the Newcastle Jets and I just can’t wait to get started.”

W-League Coach Ash Wilson said, securing the co-captain of the team was a key move for the club to make as they begin to assemble the squad for the upcoming season.

“I’m very happy to be able to re-sign Cass Davis. Not only is she a leader both on and off the field as one of our co-captains, she’s someone that can be relied upon to work hard and put the team first,” Wilson said.

“It is something we as a club value and her proven durability and mentality in this competition will be important for us moving forward.”

Irish Women’s National League Round-Up

Abi Ticehurst updates us with all the action from Round Fifteen of action in the FAI WNL as Shelbourne and Peamount United remain separated by the slenderest of margins at the top.

Pictured above: Cork City goalkeeper Abby McCarthy reaches for the ball. Photo supplied to Impetus by Salem Photos.

Wexford Youths 4-1 Cork City

Leading by example, Kylie Murphy netted two goals for Wexford to set the pace in this game. Ellen Molloy was also in on the action as she struck one and soon after a strike from Sinead Taylor confirmed the fourth goal. Cork City weren’t happy to see a goalless trip from themselves and the consistent Eva Mangan was there to pull one back for Cork. City keeper Abby McCarthy put in an good performance despite suffering the after effects of her second Covid jab. Wexford continue their push for the title as they sit just one point behind Shelbourne and Peamount.

Athlone Town 1-2 Peamount United

Emily Corbet opened the scoring in this game for Athlone, a shock in itself given how strong Peamount’s campaign so far this season has been. Naoisha McAloon rushed out to save but Corbet was quick to clock the error and lobbed the Peamount shot-stopper. Alannah McEvoy put the visitors to rights after a sweet strike at Abbiegayle Royanne put the Peas level. Athlone fought a hard game for the full 90 which included a sending off for the away squad in the 84th minute as Tiegan Ruddy faced a straight red for a pull back on Kellie Brennan. Despite being down to 10, Áine O’Gorman finished things off for Peamount and clinched the three points as she chipped Royanne. Peamount sit level at the top of the table with Shelbourne, just one goal behind making the difference.

Above: There were plenty of goals for Shelbourne to celebrate against Treaty United. Photo: @shelsfc

Shelbourne 7-2 Treaty United

Treaty United were forced onto the backfoot by the title racers from the blow of the kick off whistle. Shels were two goals up inside four minutes with Emily Whelan and Saoirse Noonan netting. Noonan with a second long range effort and Jessie Stapleton converting from the free-kick (see video below). Keeva Keenan and Ciara Grant made it five and six before long. However, Treaty weren’t out of the fight, as Jenna Slattery caught Amanda Budden out to slot the ball past her just before half time. Mia Dodd made it seven for Shels and a consolatory second courtesy of Slattery again.

Shels extend their lead by just a single goal at the top of the table in the title race against Peamount.

The fixture between Bohemians and DLR Waves was called off.

In other news

Golden boot race

Eleanor Ryan-Doyle (Peamount United) sits comfortably at the top with 14 goals, whilst Áine O’Gorman (Peamount United) follows suit with 9 and Saoirse Noonan (Shelbourne) and Ellen Molloy (Wexford Youths) match up. Kyle Murphy (Wexford Youths) with eight.

Golden glove race

Above: Shelbourne’s Amanda Budden – leading the Golden Glove race so far. Photo: @amandabudd

In first place is Shelbourne’s keeper Amanda Budden, who leads the pack with eight clean sheets, whilst DLR Wave’s Eve Badana follows closely behind with six. Meanwhile Naoisha McAloon (Peamount United) and Ciamh Gray (Wexford Youths) are tied for third. Peamount are in the rather unique position of occupying the top five with a second keeper, Niamh Reid-Burke who has three clean sheets to her name.

Table

PositionTeamPldPtsGD +/-GFW
1Shelbourne1334+293811
2Peamount United1334+283811
3Wexford Youths1433+283910
4DLR Waves1222+6177
5Galway1312-12193
6Treaty United149-34202
7Bohemians128-12162
8Cork City147-15161
9Athlone Town137-18171

Next Fixtures

Saturday 24th July

Galway v Shelbourne (14:00)

Cork City v Peamount United (14:00)

Bohemians v Wexford Youths (14:00)

DLR Waves v Athlone Town (16:00)

Matildas Pragmatism A Sign Of A Maturing Team

Kieran Yap analyses Australia’s performance against the USA yesterday and sees signs of a positive future.

Pictured above: The Matildas team that took on the USA on Tuesday. Photo: Getty Images.

A lot gets said about playing football in keeping with The Matildas identity.

Fans are used to brave, attacking football. We have become accustomed to taking the game to the opposition and the team pushing until the last possible second to score or get a win.

Something else we have become accustomed to, honorable losses.

Playing the final 15 minutes in search of a draw against the U.S.A was hard to watch, but not for the same reasons the final minutes of a game can be.

There was little concern that Australia would concede a later goal from an error or stroke of ill timed misfortune. They played it safe, they played it slightly dull, they played it smart.

Winning friendlies is fun. The 5-3 loss last time these two teams met was brilliant viewing as Foord and Kerr staged a late comeback against a team on the verge of becoming World Champions.

But in the final group game of an Olympic tournament and with a quarter final spot on the line, excitement was the last thing that was needed.

Above: Momentum and professionalism is growing in the Matildas ranks as the Olympics tournament progresses. Photo: Football Australia.

Head coach Tony Gustavsson has spoken of the need for cool heads in “pressure cooker” situations. These high pressure scenarios are not exclusive to high octane rollercoasters like the Miracle of Montpellier.

A mature football team, a winning football team knows how to get the result needed in the easiest way possible.

Against Sweden, The Matildas showed that they could chase and re-take a lead. Against New Zealand they showed they can take the initiative and against the U.S.A they displayed a calm headed approach to progression.

It brought back memories of the 2018 Asian Cup, Japan was in a similar position with the ball after Australia had equalized and both teams had guaranteed World Cup qualification.

That experienced Japan side, did what Australia did. They knocked the ball about in the back half to run down the clock. With bigger fish to fry they risked no injury or unnecessary exertion.

Great Britain awaits Australia in the quarter-final. Who will win is impossible to predict as both sides look to be improving.

The Matildas have always done whatever they can to get a result. The U.S.A game showed that they know what to do. 

Zambian Fairy Tale Comes To An End

Brazil 1-0 Zambia

By Kris Goman

Pictured above: Lushomo Mweemba (3) is sent off by referee Yoshimi Yamashita. Photo: Getty Images

This is a do-or-die match for Zambia who will go out of the tournament if they lose and Brazil are probably safe regardless of the result. It’s all on Zambia tonight.

As it turns out, Brazil won 1-0 in a rather unconvincing affair. It was a game marked more by injuries than any football brilliance. It was brutal with two players stretchered off and others being able to limp off under their own steam. This didn’t feel like the USA v Australia game where both teams were desperately trying not to score.

Rather, neither team could break the other’s defence despite the strong expectation of an easy Brazil victory. The only goal was from a free kick seconds after the replacement goalkeeper took the field with little warm up.

Zambia have been the surprise package of the tournament. They haven’t won a game but scored at least three goals in each of their previous two matches. Barbra Banda has emerged as the breakout star being a relative unknown playing professionally in China. In this match, although she made some good runs, she was unable to unleash the magic and score.

Zambia attacked early with Banda sending a cross through the box but it’s immediately cleared to the other end and Brazil get a free kick. The free kick is saved by the keeper, Hazel Nali, resplendent in a bright pink keeper’s kit with matching pink highlights on her hair.

Banda gets away down the centre of the field and although the defence catches her, she twists away to get a shot off that’s saved in a leap to the right. The Brazilian keeper, Barbara, has words for her defence. It feels like Banda can’t be stopped but that’s her only on-target shot of the night. Rachael Kundananji takes a shot from outside the box but the keeper picks it up with little effort.

It’s end to end and Brazil are straight back down into their box for another attack that amounts to nothing. Jucinara runs down the left and the cross to Marta is defended well.

Formiga sends ball over the top to Ludmilla but the keeper, Nali, is straight out and kicks it away taking out Ludmilla in the process. There’s a stop in play while they are both attended to by the trainers. VAR is examining the tackle by Lushomo Mweemba just outside the area immediately before Nali arrived so it won’t be a penalty but Mweemba gets a red card and is sent off in a pretty surprising move. She strolls off shrugging her shoulders in disbelief still.

The keeper is still down and the substitute custodian, Ngambo Musole, is warming up. The stretcher is out now and Nali’s going on it. Musole, the replacement keeper, comes on as Nali is stretchered off. There’s a tactical change to replace a forward with a defender and Vast Phiri is on as well with Avell Chitundu coming off.

Brazil get a free kick as a result. Andressa takes it and puts it over the wall and straight into the back of the net. 1-0 Brazil in a bizarre start to the match.

Above: Brazil celebrate Andressa’s (21) goal. Photo: Getty Images.

Brazil attack again and Beatriz looks to be offside but the flag stays down until a similar tackle happens at the top of the box to what happened before and then the flag goes up. You’ve got to wonder about the reasoning when that could just be avoided by flagging offside when it happens.

Banda follows a long ball up to the right of the box and gets a corner. There’s a big clash of heads during the corner between Beatriz and Rachael Kundananji for Zambia. The injuries are mounting up. Beatriz needs to go off. Kundananji is up but looks a bit groggy. Beatriz is off and bleeding from her head. The game continues with a goal kick. Giovana is going to come on to replace Beatriz and is warming up. Kundananji has been bandaged up and come back on for Zambia with a big white bandage around her head.

Possession is with Brazil for 69% and Zambia for 31% at 30 minutes in but half that time has been waiting for injuries.

Banda gets a free kick in the centre of the field, but Brazil are back in possession pretty quickly. Zambia seems to have one tactic, have almost everyone back in defence and kick it long to Banda. It’s reasonably effective but a bit predicable. Another long ball sees Banda and Barbara running towards it but Barbara is closer and quicker and clears it with a big kick as she’s well outside the box.

Brazil makes another foray into the box with Ludmilla passing to Giovana but Martha Tembo tackles her and hurts her own ankle. The ball is cleared but we’ve got another injury delay. She’s OK but limping a bit. And now a VAR check. They play on and it’s fine.

Marta gets a great ball on the right wing and sends t straight across the goal face bit Giovana can’t connect to convert.

We’ve played 45 minutes now and there’s 14 minutes of stoppage time. Is that a record?

Margaret Belemu has copped a smack to the face and is down. Play continues. It’s mostly with the Brazilians with the occasional run by Banda. Jucinara gets a free kick on the left of the box. Andressa is taking it. It’s headed by Rafaelle but it skims the crossbar.

Phiri gets a yellow for a challenge.

A Santos cross is kicked out for a Brazil corner. Marta takes it and it’s nearly an Olympico goal but the keeper gets a hand to it and pushes it out. The next corner from the other side is not well controlled by Formiga despite a nearly open goal. It’s a missed opportunity.

Above: Formiga, who missed a great opportunity to extend Brazil’s lead. Photo: Getty Images

Andressa takes a shot from the top of the box that hits the crossbar and bounces back into play. Santos’ cross finds Giovana but her header is saved. First half finally ends at 1-0 despite a few chances but given Zambia are down to ten, it’s a pretty lacklustre effort on behalf of Brazil.

In the second half, Formiga and Marta go off to be replaced by Julia and Duda.

Giovana goes down as she tries to save a ball going out and needs some quick medical attention but is ok. It starts raining heavily. A ball up the right sideline to Banda is cleared in a perfect sliding tackle by Rafaelle who is now the captain. Banda takes a ball right from half way down to the right side of the box before being tackled and Brazil getting the resulting throw in.

Kundananji passes to Banda on the right who brings the play into the box. There’s a bit of trickery and faking but she can’t get past the last defender and it’s cleared.

Brazil go on the attack led by Duda and eventually Ludmilla gets a good cross in but there’s no one in the box and it sails past goal harmlessly.

Poliana and Banda clash heads in a contested header. Poliana is down and looks like Benites is going to come on as she’s stretchered off too. This game is carnage. Geyse also on for Ludmilla   Banda appears to be OK. In the free kick, Grace Chanda goes for goal and narrowly misses the top bins.

A free kick on the right by Andressa goes to the far post in a probable direct attempt at goal but it’s just over the crossbar. Brazil keeps pressing but can’t get through the lines. Banda gets up the left but her cross goes out.

Angelina fouls Banda by going in feet first and Banda gets a shin full of studs and some medical treatment. She’s limping but is going to be OK. They get a free kick towards the top of the box. Chanda takes it but it goes high over the top post.

Above: Duda goes down under pressure from Zambia’s Lubandji Ochumba. Photo: Getty Images

Brazil gets a free kick through a manhandling. Debinha, on as a sub, takes it and goes for goal. It’s deflected off the wall for a corner. Only the third of the match. Debinha takes that too and it’s into the huddle then over the goal line.

Benites displays some fancy footwork before a cross that goes high.

Six minutes of extra time as Zambia goes on the attack. The game still seems open as Brazil haven’t been the dominant team as expected. A shot by Debinha goes over.

Evarine Katongo is on for Kundananji with the bandage for Zambia.

A Brazil free kick taken by Angelina comes into the box but Geyse’s header goes wide of goal.

Banda takes a very long shot to try to lob the keeper, Barbara, in a last minute attempt but it’s too high.

Debinha takes the ball down the left as the full time whistle goes and Brazil win unconvincingly. But three points are three points and Zambia have played their last match and end up in third place in the group. They can hold their head high though and it was a great tournament for them despite their results. A great experience and certainly showcased a couple of stars.

Above: Zambia, and Barbra Banda (centre) will be remembered as one of the best things about the women’s football at the Olympics this year. Photo: Getty Images.

Brazil goes through in second place in the group with Netherlands at the top of the table on goal difference. Both China and Zambia from this group are out having both finished with a single point, Zambia ahead on goal difference. Brazil will play Canada and the Netherlands will play the USWNT as the knockout rounds start on Friday.

Teams: BRAZIL: Barbara, Santos, Poliana, Rafaelle, Jucinara, Andressa, Formiga, Angelina, Marta (C), Ludmilla, Beatriz. Substitutes: Aline (GK), Julia, Duda, Debinha, Benites, Geyse, Giovana.

Scorer: Andressa 19.

ZAMBIA: Nali, Mweemba,  Lubandji, Belemu, Chanda, Banda, Chitundu, Tembo, Lungu, Musase, Kundananji. Substitutes: Mulenga, Wilombe, Mubanga, Phiri, Katongo, Mukwasa, Musole (GK).

Referee: Yoshimi Yamashita (JPN).