Irish Women’s National League Round-Up

Impetus’ Abi Ticehurst rounds up all the action from Week Twenty of the FAI Women’s National League as the top three of the table gets ever tighter.

Above: Cork City celebrate Nathalie O’Brien’s goal against Shelbourne. Photo: Salem Photos.

Cork City 1-3 Shelbourne

Shels will have had one eye on the Peamount United v Wexford Youths game whilst they took on Cork City in this game week 20 fixture. Such is life that Emily Whelan was of course on the scoresheet first for the Shels after an Alex Kavanagh assist. Goals from Noelle Murray and Ciara Grant secured the three points to push the Reds top of the table. Nathalie O’Brien denied Shelbourne a clean sheet with a goal for Cork.

Wexford Youths 1-1 Peamount United

The most exciting clash of the weekend and Wexford proved it’s not a two horse title race. Alannah McEvoy gave the visitors the lead after a scramble in the box saw the ball roll across the line, but they found it difficult to establish any real rhythm, potentially due to game intensity having played in the Champions League. Aoibheann Clancy levelled the field when she scored the equaliser as she converted a penalty just before half time. Just six points separates the two top three at this point in the season. Peamount are now two points adrift of leaders Shelbourne in second place, but still hold a game in hand.

Athlone Town 2-1 Treaty United

Above: Athlone Town in the huddle. Photo: @AfcAthlone

Arguably, Athlone’s best game of the season which jumped them two places in the table. Emily Corbet was on target as she struck a convincing penalty to put Athlone one up, however Gillian Keenan was able to put Treaty back in the game as she equalised for the visitors. An evenly matched fixture throughout, but Town were able to nab all three points as O’Haodha fizzed one in from close range to make it two.

Galway WFC 0-0 Bohemians

A game for the keepers in this encounter, neither side pressed too hard, which is reflected in the score line. Leah Hayes Cohen and Courtney Maguire were both able to collect shots comfortably to deny either side a chance to take all three points. Both sides will likely be happy to maintain their mid table spots as a result.

In other news

Ground-breaking news as the FAI confirm an equal pay deal has been struck with both the Women’s & Men’s squads ahead of their World Cup qualifiers. They will receive the same match fees on international duty. A reminder that the women are currently ranked 33rd in the world, whilst the men sit in 47th.

Republic of Ireland announced a home friendly against Olympic semi-finalists Australia on Wednesday 22nd September at Tallaght Stadium, Dublin.

Above: The EVOKE.ie FAI Women’s Senior Cup last eight takes place this weekend. Photo: @LoiWomen

A league break will take place next week as the EVOKE.ie FAI Women’s Senior Cup Quarter-Finals take place for the squads.

Peamount United exited the Champions League having been defeated 5-2 by, professional team and 10 times league winners, Spartak Subotica of Serbia.

It was confirmed midweek that Shelbourne midfielder Jamie Finn has made the transfer to Women’s Super League side, Birmingham City.

PositionTeamPldWDLGFGAGD +/-Pts
1Shelbourne1815125014+3646
2Peamount United1714214912+3744
3Wexford Youths1712414212+3040
4DLR Waves169252716+1129
5Galway185592838-1019
6Bohemians1843112636-1015
7Athlone Town1825112146-2511
8Cork City1824122046-2610
9Treaty United1823132568-439


Important But Difficult Win For Lyon

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarises Olympique Lyonnais’ 2-1 win in the away leg of their UEFA Women’s Champions League second qualifying round tie against Levante in Valencia, Spain.

Above: A midfield tussle between Olympique Lyonnais and Levante last night. Photo: Levante UD.

This game was not an easy one for Olympique Lyonnais and there were a lot of movements back and forth from one goal to the other. Even if Lyon largely dominated this game (63% possession in first half), the constant pressing from Levante disrupted Lyon’s game plan and there were a lot of misdirected passes as well as a lack of speed in the play.

Levante could have scored on a number of counterattacks and in the first half, Lyon goalkeeper Christiane Endler Lyon goalkeeper had to make saves, particularly in the 22nd and 28th minutes (22, 28) to deny Levante. Strangely, Levante had more true opportunities to score than Lyon by playing in quick counterattacks in the first half. Levante players made also a lot of fouls trying to stop Lyon attacks (11 fouls in the first half for Levante; 3 fouls for Lyon).

Highlights of the first half:

5 Endler cleared a ball directly into Buchanan’s head who is a little bit groggy by the shock.

7 Carpenter crosses, no one can get on the end of it.

9 Bacha’s crosses, no one can get on the end of it.

12 Henry attacks and crosses, no one can get on the end of it.

14 Free Kick from Macario, cleared by the Levante defence.

15 Cross by Macario, cleared by the Levante defence.

16 Pass by Majri to Morroni, who crosses but cleared by the Levante defence.

18 Cross by Morroni and then Carpenter, both cleared by the Levante defence.

21 Carpenter shoots over.

22 Levante counterattack, cross shot of Alba Redondo stopped by Endler.

25 Another counterattack from Levante which comes to nothing.

28 Free kick for Levante, the ball is cleared, then crossed by Maria Mendez Fernandez and stopped by Endler.

32 Free kick by Majri, header from Macario off target.

33 Great clearance by the foot of Endler which ends up with a cross by Macario which was caught by the Levante goalkeeper.

37 Bacha recuperates the ball and passes to Morroni, cross of Morroni, sent back by Levante defence.

40 Buchanan clears the ball with a long pass, and the move ends with a header by Van de Donk which is caught by Levante goalkeeper.

At halftime, the score was still 0-0.

Lyon started the second half trying to put more rhythm in their game but the Levante high pressing quickly made them to go back to inaccurate passes. Furthermore, they played towards the centre of the Levante defence which merely aided the home side’s counterattacks.

Highlights of the second half:

Above: It was a competitive tussle in Valencia last night between Levante and Olympique Lyonnais. Photo: Levante UD.

48 Corner for Lyon following an attack down the right by Carpenter, Majri shoots but no luck.

50 Free kick for Lyon, Cross from Macario, cleared by Levante defence.

51 Shot by Macario, count attack by Levante defence leads to a corner.

53 Shot of Morroni, stopped by Levante’s goalkeeper.

54 Pass by Carpenter to Majri who crosses but Levante’s goalkeeper sends the ball back.

55 Shot by Macario, stopped by the Levante goalkeeper at the second attempt.

57 Shot saved by Levante goalkeeper.

59 On a counterattack, Levante enter the Lyon box and shoot off target.

61 Shot of Alba Redondo, stopped by Endler.

64 Cross by Laurent, cleared by the Levante defence. From the resulting corner, Bacha hits the cross bar

68 Counterattack by Levante, shot off target.

73 Cross by Laurent for Malard, cleared by the Levante defence.

80 GOAL LYON! Malard with a cross shot from left to right following a great pass from Majri.

84 GOAL LYON! Morroni with a cross shot from left to right after a pass from Malard who was brilliantly put in from Cayman for 2-0

86 GOAL LEVANTE! Giovanna following a break by Tatiana Pinto up to the goal line and a perfect pass back for 2-1.

93 Second yellow card for Bacha -> Red card

Lyon did not play fast enough to destabilize and overtake Levante players and their high press game. There were too many inaccurate passes by Lyon who were unable to impose their game on the Spanish side. The changes around the 60th minute mark gave the visitors more speed in their game, and they were able to score twice about 20 minutes later. On their last counterattack Levante reduced the score to 2-1 on a penetration of Lyon defence and a back pass.

Referee: Jelena Medjedovic.

Goals: Anselmo (86′) for Levante; Melvine Malard (80′), Perle Morroni (84′) for Lyon.

Yellow cards: Mendez Fernandez (45′), Paraluta (72′) for Levante; Selma Bacha (23′, 90+3′), Kadeisha Buchanan (69′) for Lyon.

Red card: Selma Bacha (90+3′) for Lyon.

Levante: Valenzuela – Tomas (Cometti, 79′), Miralles, Mendez Fernandez, Morente – San Martin, Toletti, Nicolas – Mendez (Pinto, 71′), Ferrer (Anselmo, 85′), Indakoetxea. Substitutes: Paraluta, Casanova, Iannuzzi, Nunez, Bascunan. Coach: Angel Villacampa Carrasco.

Lyon: Endler – Bacha, Renard, Buchanan, Carpenter (Cayman, 78′) – Majri, Henry, Van de Donk (Damaris, 62′) – Morroni, Bruun (Laurent, 56′), Macario (Malard, 62′). Substitutes: Holmgren, Paljevic, Sombath, Baga, Julini, Cascarino. Coach: Sonia Bompastor.

Hamilton Academical: Back To The Top Flight

With the new season of the Scottish Women’s Premier League One kicking off this weekend, Robert Watson, assistant manager of newly promoted Hamilton Academical spoke to Ben Gilby.

Above: Hamilton Academicals celebrate their promotion back to the SWPL 1 at the end of last season. Photo: Ian Steel Photography, supplied by: Hamilton Academical WFC.

The Accies’ return to the SWPL 1 coincides with an important milestone in the club’s history as Robert reveals: “Our 25th anniversary has just gone so women’s football has had fairly long journey at the club so far! We are one of the biggest clubs in Scotland when it comes to women’s football and we have a really proud history of producing Premier League quality players and a few Scotland internationals at the club. Its a brilliant place for players to play their football.”

Last season was hugely successful for Hamilton as they earned their place back in the top tier after a couple of years away. Robert explains the processes involved:

“We got relegated from SWPL 1 in 2018 so since then the focus has been getting back to the top division. In 2019 we just missed out on promotion on the last day, but we managed to keep our key players and add some real quality, particularly in our defence and front line. Ultimately, the key though was team spirit through the stoppage due to COVID. The players supported each other to attend Zoom fitness classes, running groups, then training in groups of two when we were allowed, then three, four and finally non-contact before we could return to full training. The players were magnificent and I don’t think we would have done it without that sheer will from them to get promoted.

“The COVID period was very difficult. Lots of our teams were not allowed to play and only the first team actually completed a scheduled season. I am just looking forward to seeing everyone back!”

It was a real tussle at the top of the SWPL 2 table between Aberdeen, Hamilton Academical, Partick Thistle, and Dundee United last season. The key to Accies’ eventual promotion was their record in the games between those sides at the top: “Across those six games we won four of them. The four clubs had pulled clear of the rest of the League and we had to beat the three of them in a row over a week. It was a very, very tough week but we dug deep and even away to Aberdeen where we weren’t at our best, we got a 2-1 win. Ultimately, winning was more important than performance by that point. The schedule itself was hard – eight games in five weeks – so the players deserve enormous credit for keeping going and producing wins.”

Above: Josie Giard pictured after scoring her second goal for Hamilton Academical against Kilmarnock which sealed the Accies’ promotion back to the top flight. Photo: Ian Steele Photography, supplied by Hamilton Academical WFC.

The next step for Hamilton now is competing with the top sides in Scottish Women’s Football. I asked Robert what do the club need to do to stay competitive and ensure that higher level football is sustainable.

“Effectively, we need to keep our best players where we can and add some quality. I don’t think there is a big gap between the top of SWPL 2 and mid table of SWPL 1, and I already think we have a strong spine that can go and compete. Now it’s a matter of fitting a couple of new faces to the team. It will be hard but we are better prepared than we would have been in 2019 if we had done it then.”

Bringing players through the club from a young age is an important part of that sustainable development, and Hamilton Academical have an established pathway.

“We have ‘mini kickers’ which is for young children up to seven years old. Then we have Under 9s, Under 13s, Under 16s, Under 19s (essentially our reserve team) and finally the first team. At the moment we have three players in our first team who have moved through our pathway,” explained a proud Robert.

Another key part of the club’s sustainability is the strong relationship between the men’s and women’s teams.

“We play all of our matches at the main New Douglas Park stadium which the men’s team also use. The club have been very good and support us, but Hamilton are a small club when compared to Rangers or Celtic. Financially in Scotland there is an enormous gap and little financial support from the governing body, but we have been very good at stretching what we have to ensure the players get the best facility we can and the club have been brilliant in that way.”

Above: Hamilton Academical’s Megan Quinn, Amy Anderson, Chloe Muir, Sarah Rhind and Kirstie Mcintosh. Photo: Ian Steele Photography, supplied by Hamilton Academical WFC.

“The biggest challenge facing the club is recruitment as the SWPL 1 now has three professional teams but we have always worked hard and done our due diligence to try and get the best players in. While we maybe can’t offer players money, we can offer them an excellent platform to showcase their ability and maybe get the professional move off the back of it.”

For this season’s return to the top tier, Robert is clear about the club’s aim: To become an established top division side again.”

To follow the progress of Hamilton Academical and all of the SWPL 1 clubs, check out Impetus’ continued coverage of the Scottish women’s game this season. 

The View From France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset summarizes the first week of action in D1 Arkema, French women’s football’s topflight.

Above: Paris St. Germain celebrate their 5-0 opening day win over Fleury. Photo: OJB Sport.

Olympique Lyonnais won 3-0 at home against Reims. Goals for Lyon from Easther Mayi Kith (6, Own Goal), Delphine Cascarino (10), and Selma Bacha (93). For my full report and exclusive photos from the game, click here: https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2021/08/28/lyon-off-and-running/

Paris FC, at home, won 4-1 against Guingamp. Goals for Paris FC from Clara Matéo (1), Daphne Corboz (35, Penalty), Adja Binate Soumahoro (61), and Louna Ribadeira (63). Guingamp’s goal came from Sana Daoudi (29).

Montpellier won 2-1 away from home against Dijon. Lena Petermann (23) and Sarah Puntigam (92) were on target for Montpellier. Lisa Schmitz’s own goal (73) gave Dijon hope.

Above: Delphine Cascarino, who scored for Olympique Lyonnais in their opening day win over Reims.
Photo exclusively for Impetus by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

Soyaux won at home against Issy 2-0. Goals for Soyaux from Kelly Rowswell (39 Own Goal) and Laura Bourgouin (87).

Saint-Etienne at home finished with an excellent 1-1 draw against Champions League qualifiers Bordeaux. Laura Condon’s leveller for the home side after 81 minutes followed Vanessa Gilles’ strike for Bordeaux (46).

Paris Saint Germain won 5-0 at home against Fleury. Goals for Paris SG from Sandy Baltimore (14), Sara Dabritz (21), Kadidiatou Diani (35), Jeannette Grace Ngock Yango (61, Own Goal), and Ramona Bachmann (86).

Except for Bordeaux who drew against newly promoted Saint-Etienne, all the contenders for the championship won their first games. Paris SG, Paris FC and Lyon started particularly strongly and fill the top three places in the table.

Ashford Town & Impetus’ FAWSL Predictions

Ahead of the new Barclays FAWSL season which kicks off this Friday, Ellie Luscombe, Lucy Potter and Charlotte Baker from Impetus partner club Ashford Town (Middx) joined up with three of the site’s writers, Ben Gilby, Kris Goman, and Kieran Yap to discuss their predictions for the season.

PREDICTED CHAMPIONS:

Ellie: Chelsea as I feel they have momentum going into the season with winning the league and continental cup last season and feel especially some of the youngsters we’ve seen in recent friendlies could prove a point this season as well.

Lucy: Chelsea. The team they have is world class as well as the manager. With the signing of Lauren James who’s a proven goal scorer I don’t see anyone else competing.

Above: Ashford Town (Middx)’s Lucy Potter (right) seen in action here at AFC Wimbledon in a pre-season friendly. Photo: Ben Gilby

Charlotte: Chelsea. Consistently strong, all round good team, tough to beat at the moment. Close behind them, I would say Manchester City.

Kris: Chelsea. It’s a winning formula and the team hasn’t changed much. They still look very strong and determined.

Kieran: Chelsea. They still have some defensive weaknesses but will be confident that they can outscore anybody. They have a largely settled team and are one of the clubs that has consistency off the field. They have depth, options and variety in attack and a world glass goalkeeper.

Ben: Full house – Chelsea! Only a lack of strength in depth in defence prevents them from being the complete team. The creativity and firepower in midfield and up front is frightening.

TWO ADDITIONAL CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUALIFIERS:

Ellie: I think maybe Manchester United as they had had a great past two seasons finishing fourth in the league and feel they could maybe inch into the top three. It might be a long shot but maybe Reading as well as they always seem to finish around fifth and sixth, plus with some the new signings like Olympic gold medallist Deanne Rose, they could maybe get into the top three.

Lucy: United and Arsenal have the squads to realistically compete.

Charlotte: Manchester United- they have grown in to the Super League and keep getting better. They can play top teams and think it would improve them even more and give them more experience if they were to qualify this season for Champions League.  

Kris: Arsenal and Manchester City. Both still very strong teams despite a couple of line up changes. No other teams look as strong as these three.

Kieran: Manchester City and Arsenal. Both have invested heavily in improving their squad. Manchester Citiy’s Lauren Hemp and Hayley Raso both had excellent Olympic campaigns and Khadija Shaw is a brilliant striker. City will be hard to stop with that sort of pace and talent in attack.

Arsenal, because of Mana Iwabuchi. To have her and Kim Little in the same line up feels like some sort of cheat code.  The only  thing that can stop them is another plague of injuries. If the review from last season has solved that problem they can challenge for honours.

Ben: I really fancy Everton to have a crack at third place this year. Arguably they have had the best transfer window of any FAWSL club. A number of hugely exciting young Swedish stars signed, including the reported 200,000 Euro transfer fee paid for the teenager Hanna Bennison is a real statement of intent. Manchester City should finish second. Some good signings (please play Alanna Kennedy in defence and NOT midfield…!) and the momentum from the way they finished last season.

DARK HORSES:

Ellie: Leicester City could be a dark horse as they had such a good run in the Championship as well as winning it. But they have also proved a lot with their previous win against Manchester United in the FA Cup fifth round and reaching the semi-final of the Continental Cup.  Also Aston Villa could be a dark horse as now they’ve had a season in the league, and been able to adapt to the level. I feel they might do well as they pulled off a few good performances last season. But have also gained the likes of Maz Pacheco, Remi Allen and Alisha Lehmann.

Charlotte: Manchester United – they have made good signings, strong team, can compete with the best. They have lost some big players but still think they are in for a chance.  

Above: Hanna Bennison pictured at Everton after the completion of her midweek six figure fee transfer. Photo: Everton FC.

Kris: Everton. They seem to be building and have a good set up. Bennison might be a game changer for them.

Kieran: Everton were great in patches last season and only need to add consistency. Hanna Bennison is only 18 but could be a generational talent and the type who dominates the league. Willie Kirk clearly has a plan for how he wants the team to play and has the club’s backing. 

Ben: Everton, for reasons stated in Champions League qualifiers above.

RELEGATED:

Ellie: Maybe Birmingham City as they have been around the bottom two the last couple of seasons and have narrowly missed out on relegation previously.

Lucy: Leicester City. I don’t think they have the experience within the team.

Charlotte: Brighton and Hove Albion. Not strong enough to compete with best teams. Although Leicester City have come up, I think they have a strong side and good team cohesion amongst them to be consistently performing even if not winning week in week out. Brighton, I feel like are a very inconsistent team.

Kris: Aston Villa. Gut feel.

Kieran: West Ham United only just survived last season and have lost Emily van Egmond who was one of their most potent attacking weapons. Birmingham City and Reading are vulnerable. The competition is becoming an arms race of sorts and they might have been left behind this season.

Above: Birmingham City in a pre-season friendly against Liverpool at St. Andrews. Photo: Andrew Powell/Getty Images

Ben: Birmingham City. It’s been a horrendous eight months or so at the club. Players publicly criticising the club for poor facilities and lack of equality, narrowly missing relegation, and a quality head coach departing along with key players. Getting Scott Booth in as new head coach was a great move giving his success and achievements with Glasgow City both domestically and in the Champions League, but this is a side low on confidence, and key players have not been replaced over the summer.

BEST PLAYER:

Ellie: I think the best player in the WSL right now is Fran Kirby. Her comeback after being horribly ill for so long really showed the player she is and how great she is to go from not being able to anything to back on top and scoring and probably a better player than she was before.

Lucy: Fran Kirby. Her goal scoring record speaks for itself.

Charlotte: Lucy Bronze- one of the best if not the best full back in the world, no other words than unreal. Vivianne Miedima – world class finisher, one of the best if not the best striker in the world. Doesn’t pass up on her opportunities.

Kris: Fran Kirby, injuries permitting. She’s a legend and has the ability to change a game. Her and Kerr make each other better.

Kieran: Mana Iwabuchi, she is world class. She can score , pass and dribble and at Arsenal she has the players around her to ensure she will have space to thrive.

Above: Fran Kirby – one of the biggest stars in the FAWSL. Photo: @ChelseaFCW

Ben: Fran Kirby reached unplayable standards last season. I also want to make a shout out for a newly arrived player who has largely gone under the radar here in the UK who could be one of the signings of the season – Tameka Yallop. She is a player at the top of her game under Tony Gustavsson with the Matildas. If she transfers that form to the FAWSL then West Ham United are going to have a decent season.

PLAYER MOST LIKELY TO HAVE A BREAKTHROUGH SEASON:

Ellie: The player most likely to make a big breakthrough is Lauren James. With her move to Chelsea I think it will show her talent on the bigger stages like the Champions League and really allow her to show herself even more with bigger challenges.

Lucy: Lauren James , she made a name for herself with United but at Chelsea I think she will really shine.

Charlotte: Natasha Flint of Leicester City. She’s a prolific goal scorer and strong up top. I feel like she will twist and turn a lot of defenders and upset a lot of teams this season.

Kris: Lauren Hemp. She’s pretty established now but she’s a huge talent and has the potential to be the best in the league.

Kieran: Lauren James, Chelsea’s star recruit will feature alongside some of the biggest names in the game. After her last season it may not  technically be a breakthrough, but she could go to another level entirely.  

Above: Lauren James – predicted by many of the panel to have a breakout season at Chelsea. Photo: Sky Sports.

Ben: Given her incredible Olympics this summer, I think this season will see Jessie Fleming absolutely smash it in the FAWSL.

 Don’t miss Impetus’ club by club preview of the new FAWSL season this Friday.

Increased TV Coverage For Scottish Women’s Football

Ahead of the Scottish Women’s Premier League’s new season kicking off this weekend, Impetus hears of increased free to air TV coverage, key summer signings and the draw for the next stage of League Cup competitions.

Above: UEFA Women’s Champions League action between Glasgow City and Sparta Prague last season. Photo: BBC.

Scottish Women’s Football have announced that BBC ALBA will broadcast a record 20 matches across the upcoming 2021/22 Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) 1 season.

BBC ALBA will open their coverage with Aberdeen hosting Celtic on the first day of the new season. It’ll be an early test for both sides with this being Aberdeen’s first match in the top flight of women’s football since 2017. After suffering back-to-back relegations, they’ve lifted back-to-back league titles under Head Coach, Emma Hunter. Her side will host last season’s runners-up, who will be hoping to go one better this season.

Fran Alonso’s Celtic are back on BBC ALBA the following Sunday as they welcome Glasgow City to the Penny Cars Stadium. They suffered defeat twice at the hands of City but held them to a dramatic 0-0 draw when the sides last met at K-Park. Both teams saw penalties saved and Jenna Clark was sent off late in the game for the away side.

Above: Celtic in action against Glasgow City. The pair will face off again live on BBC ALBA in less than a fortnight.
Photo: The Scotsman.

Glasgow City are under the new management of interim Head Coach, Grant Scott, after the departure of Scott Booth to Barclays FAWSL side Birmingham City. Leanne Crichton has also left to join Motherwell while Leanne Ross has retired, though has now joined the coaching staff. It means Jo Love will captain the side in 2021/22 while they’ve added to their squad with the signings of Irish defender, Claire Walsh, Isreali midfielder, Vital Kats, Portuguese defender, Agata Filipa, English winger, Tyler Dodds, and defender Janine van Wyk returns to the club after initially announcing her departure at the end of last season.

For Celtic, Booth has taken two of their most influential players from last season to Birmingham in the form of their top goalscorer, Sarah Ewans, and SWPL 1 Player of the Year, Lisa Robertson. Joining them this season though is American defender, Cheyenne Shorts, Icelandic forward, Maria Olafsottir Gros, English forward, Charlie Wellings, New Zealand Midfielder, Olivia Chance, and Midfielder, Shen Mengyu, who was the first-ever Chinese women’s player in the UK. They’ve also signed former Glasgow City midfielder, Tyler Toland, who joins from Manchester City.

On Sunday 3rd October BBC ALBA will show Hibernian at home to Rangers at the Tony Macaroni Arena. The Edinburgh side suffered defeat in all three meetings with Rangers last season, narrowly losing 1-0 in the first two matches played.

Above: Rangers hoping for more to celebrate this season. Photo: @RangersWFC

Both sides have bolstered their squad ahead of the new season. Hibs have added American players Gabbi English, Toni Malone, and Alexa Coyle as well as experienced SWPL 1 player, Michaela McAlonie from Edinburgh rivals Spartans. The Glasgow side have signed Jamaican forward Kayla McCoy, Dutch midfielder Tessel Middag, and Scotland forward Jane Ross. Hibs and Rangers will be hoping to build on their respective fourth and third-place finishes from last season.

Rangers are back on the BBC ALBA cameras on the 17th of October as they are away to Glasgow City. The reigning champions clinched their 14th title in a row with a 2-0 win over Rangers on the final day of the 2020/21 season. Before the suspension of the 2020/21 season, Rangers hammered City 5-0 at Broadwood and many predicted they would go on to lift the league title. Instead, Glasgow City recruited a number of new players and went unbeaten after that defeat while Rangers lost twice to both Celtic and City.

The final game confirmed to be broadcast is the first Old Firm derby of the season with Celtic at home to Rangers. Celtic had a 100% record against their biggest rivals last season, a massive factor in them securing UEFA Women’s Champions League football as runners-up. Rangers on the other hand will know they need improved results against last season’s top two to have any chance of lifting the league title.

Above: BBC Alba have increased their coverage of Scottish Women’s Football once more.

Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Multiplatform Content at MG ALBA, which operates BBC ALBA in partnership with the BBC, said: “We’re delighted BBC ALBA will be bringing coverage of the World Cup qualifiers as well as unprecedented coverage of the domestic league to our audiences, and the latest Women’s Champions League action. This is another important step in increasing appreciation and visibility of women’s sport and, for BBC ALBA, ensuring the channel continues to be a door to Gaelic to non-Gaelic speaking audiences.’

SWF Chief Executive Officer, Aileen Campbell, said: “We are delighted to announce a further enhanced broadcast partnership with BBC ALBA going into the new season. They are genuine partners to the women’s game, always striving to enhance the product they provide and to show the women’s game the respect it deserves.

“Having watched the drama of the 2020/21 SWPL 1 drama unfold, I know personally how important visibility is. It’s vital that SWF ensures that women’s football remains readily available and that we look to engage with football fans across the country. We also look forward to seeing fans back in person as I think everyone will agree, the atmosphere they provided on the final day of last season certainly added to the drama and excitement.”

SWPL Cup – Quarter-Final

Aberdeen                 v          Hibernian

Glasgow City            v          Partick Thistle

Rangers                     v          Celtic

Spartans                   v          Dundee United

Ties will be played on Sunday 31st October. Semi-Final ties are scheduled for Sunday 14th November and the 2021 Final is scheduled for Sunday 5th December.

SWF Championship Cup – 2nd Round

Airdrie                                               v          Ayr United

Dunfermline Athletic                     v          Montrose

East Fife                                            v          Dryburgh Athletic

Edinburgh Caledonia                     v          Grampian

Edinburgh City                                v          Morton OR Clyde

Hutchison Vale OR St Mirren      v          Livingston

Inverness CT                                    v          Falkirk

Westdyke                                         v          Rossvale

Ties will be played on Sunday 19th September. Semi-Final ties are scheduled for Sunday 7th November and the 2021 Final is scheduled for Sunday 28th November.

Three More W-League Player Announcements

Overnight, Canberra United and Western Sydney Wanderers have added to their rosters in addition to Brisbane Roar‘s announcement from weekend. We hear from all the players and head coaches.

A breakout season in the W-League has seen Emma Ilijoski sign on with Canberra United for a second year.

The pocket rocket defender made her W-League debut for Canberra United in Round Five last season and went on to start every match that followed, playing 900 minutes of W-League football, completing 437 passes at 71.4% accuracy.

Ilijoski is also on the national radar, with the 18-year-old taking part in a Matildas Talent Identification Camp late last year.

Ilijoski spent the off season playing for Sydney Uni FC in NPLW NSW, where she played 10 games before the competition was suspended and she returned to Canberra.

Ilijoski said she can’t wait to be back with Canberra United. “I feel such pride and gratitude towards Vicki and the staff to be back playing for Canberra United this season,” she said.

“Last season was so special; being my debut, making the finals series and most importantly, building something really exciting within the squad. We are determined to continue that success and go one better to continue doing the club and supporters proud. 

“To be given another opportunity to play for the badge, fans and my family means everything to me. I am prepared and looking forward to giving my all to the club.”

Speaking on her signing, Head Coach Vicki Linton said she was pleased to have Emma back. “Emma had a wonderful debut season last year and was one of our most consistent players,” she said.

“It is great for us as a club to be able to provide these opportunities to local Canberra players and I look forward to seeing her continue to develop and grow as a player this season.”

Wanderers Re-Sign Collister:

Above: Teigan Collister (right) in action for Western Sydney Wanderers against Brisbane Roar last season. Photo: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images.

Western Sydney Wanderers FC have announced the re-signing of forward Teigan Collister for the upcoming W-League season.

A bright spark in the Wanderers 2020/21 campaign, Collister featured in nine games and had four assists in her first season in the Red & Black.

The 21-year-old winger is set to play in her fourth season of the W-League this season with the Wanderers.

Head coach Catherine Cannuli was delighted to have Collister back for another season in Western Sydney. “Teigan has a lot of raw talent and we saw her potential last season at the Wanderers,” said Cannuli.

“We are very pleased to have Teigan back at the club and are excited to watch her growth and development over the next season.”

Collister said she was looking forward to seeing what results the team can achieve for the club this season. “I loved my first season at the club last year – it was a really welcoming environment to come into and it was also a competitive place for me to push myself as a new player,” said Collister.

“I think one of the best things about playing for the Wanderers is the culture that’s engrained into the club.

“Everyone involved at the club fosters a professional environment that both supports players and encourages us to take pride and determination into every game.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the results we can achieve for the club this season – the whole squad is ready to work really hard and put in 100% for each other. To prove ourselves as strong competitors and secure a place in the Finals – that’s our shared goal.”

Roar Sign Margraf For Another Year:

Above: Anna Margraf (right) in action for Brisbane Roar against Perth Glory in 2018. Photo: Brisbane Roar.

Brisbane Roar is pleased to announce midfielder Anna Margraf as its eighth confirmed W-League signing in the space of 14 days.

The talented 20-year-old has recommitted to the Roar after making six appearances last season, bringing her overall tally in orange to 15.

“I can’t wait to see what this year will bring,” said Margraf, who has been playing locally for Capalaba FC in the off-season. “I think it will be a good opportunity for a lot of players to step up and showcase our Queensland talent, I’m looking forward to all the girls getting together and seeing what culture we can create.”

“As long as we work really hard – and I know from playing with Georgie [Worth], H [Hollie Palmer] and [Larissa] Crummer in the off-season that we’ve all been working hard – then I’m sure it will all come together nicely.”

Margraf knows new Head Coach Garrath McPherson well from his spell as an assistant to Mel Andreatta and from her time in Queensland’s NTC program, which she captained to NPL Women’s Grand Final glory in 2018.

“I’m excited to see what he will bring to the table,” she said. “I know how hard he is working behind the scenes to make this year stand out. I think he is a great coach.”

McPherson described Margraf as a “very smart footballer” with “exceptional technique.”
“Anna is the type of player you almost have to carry away from the training pitch,” he said, “she is extremely focused and dedicated and is continually looking for ways to better herself.

“It’s been great to watch her gain experience in recent W-League seasons and she has continued this growth in our Future Matildas program this year. I’m looking forward to seeing her have a regular impact on the field this season.”

Second Half Comeback Sees Yachtswomen Sail Off With The Points

Wroxham 5-2 King’s Lynn Town

Words and Photos By Ben Gilby

Above: Wroxham keeper Cyan Fullbrook punches away as King’s Lynn Town put the pressure on. Photo: Ben Gilby.

Wroxham ended up comfortable winners from this derby clash at Trafford Park to continue their 100% start to the tier five East Regional Premier, but they needed a dominant second half performance to overturn the 2-0 lead that King’s Lynn Town deservedly established in the opening half hour.

Above: Two of Impetus‘ partner clubs line up together before kick-off – Wroxham Women with the girls of Bure Valley Youth. Photo: Ben Gilby

The visitors were on top from the start and took the lead with a stunning long range strike from Rachel Skinner after eleven minutes. They doubled their advantage when Tiffany Forshaw saw Cyan Fullbrook off her line in the Wroxham goal and hit a high shot that bounced in.

Above: First effort rocket shot on goal for King’s Lynn Town. Photo: Ben Gilby

Kayleigh Holloway was a standout player for the hosts due to her incredible workload in the first half as she did her best to inspire her side. Wroxham needed to take a grip of the midfield in order to get into the game, and they were given a foothold into the clash when talismanic striker Grace Birchall, who was popping up on both flanks as well as through the middle got a goal back before the break when she powered a headed past Christina Vivas in the King’s Lynn goal.

Above: Grace Birchall heads home hers and Wroxham’s first goal of the afternoon. Photo: Ben Gilby

The Yachtswomen were a different side in the second half and began to look more like their old selves. Alice Parker was playing pinpoint cross field passes, Amber Cantwell buzzed away in the attacking third and Grace Birchall caught fire.

Above: Wroxham’s Kayleigh Holloway, who put in a great shift. Photo: Ben Gilby

Birchall followed up her opening day hat-trick against Luton Town with another here as she used her pace and trickery to fire two further goals. Her second of the afternoon came when she slid in with Amy Magnus but managed to direct the ball goal wards.

Above: Amber Cantwell’s energetic afternoon was rewarded with a goal. Photo: Ben Gilby.

Cantwell put the Yachtswomen ahead when she slid in to turn Holloway’s cross into the net to the delight of her Bure Valley Youth fan club.

Above: All similes in the end for Wroxham. Photo: Ben Gilby.

Birchall completed her hat-trick when she drove into the box and hit a powerful low shot past Vivas. Lauren Bullard completed the comeback with a fifth when Birchall squared the ball to her in front of goal and she couldn’t miss.

To see Ben Gilby‘s full photo file of 63 photos from the game, click here: https://www.facebook.com/ImpetusFootball/photos/pcb.128259689532284/128257889532464/ Don’t forget to “like” and follow our Facebook page @ImpetusFootball.

A detailed report from the game will follow from Richard Giles later in the week.

Teams: WROXHAM: Fullbrook, Strauss, Parker, Horn, Meers, Russell, Long, Holloway, Cantwell, Birchall, Walker. Substitutes: Beevor (GK), Squires, Brister, Scully, Bullard.

Scorers: Birchall 3, Cantwell, Bullard.

KING’S LYNN TOWN: Vivas, Burch, Davis, Peeling, Imanalijeva, Magnus, O’Neill, Hopkins, Skinner, Forshaw, Kelly. Substitutes: Bell, Fairweather, Cropley, Ward.

Scorers: Skinner, Foreshaw.

Referee: Ryan Starkey.

Attendance: 125.

Artwork: Graphics by PW
Artwork: Graphics by PW

Eastern Region Premier and London & SE Premier Round-Up

Darrell Allen looks at all of the action in two of the tier five divisions from yesterday.

Above: Wroxham’s Holly Walker gets a shot away against King’s Lynn Town yesterday. Photo: Ben Gilby.

After an exciting two opening weekends, the final Sunday of August saw a dramatic day in the Eastern Region Premier with five games taking place and all ten teams scoring. 

Colney Heath put in a spirited performance and would consider themselves unlucky to only get a 1-1 draw at Luton Town. It was however a special day for the Hatters as manager Nikki Baker returned to the dugout for the first time following the birth of her son Albert two weeks ago. Grainne Kellett was on the scoresheet for the visitors and Olivia Abraham getting Luton’s goal.

There was an exciting and dramatic derby game between Impetus partner club Wroxham and King’s Lynn Town. To find out what happened, Ben Gilby’s review of the game in words and pictures, plus a link to full photo gallery, can be seen here: https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2021/08/30/second-half-comeback-sees-yachtswomen-sail-off-with-the-points/

There was also high drama in North London as Haringey Borough came from behind at half-time to beat Bowers & Pitsea 2-1 at Coles Park thanks to goals from Kylie Manktelow and Aaliyah Boyea. Courtney Fraser the scorer for Bowers.

The points were shared between Royston Town and Bedford Town with Bella Simmonds putting the crows in front before Bedford equalised later in the second half.

Above: Action from Wymondham Town’s 5-2 win over St. Ives Town. Photo: Gary Reed Photography.

In the day’s late kick off at 3.00pm it was a win for Wymondham Town who ran out 5-2 victors over St. Ives Town at Westwood Road. There were braces for Hannah Waters and Francesca Catchpole with Becca Russell with the other. St Ives got two back after falling five behind thanks to goals from Emily Smith and Amy Challis.

Table From: Full Time/The FA

It was also an exciting day in the London South East Premier Division with Impetus partner club Ashford Town (Middx) beating Aylesford Ladies 8-1. The goals came courtesy of a hat-rick from Alissa Down, braces from Anya Kinnane and Impetus sponsored player Ashley Cheatley, and one from Lavana Neufville.

Above: Plenty more goals to celebrate for Ashford Town (Middx) yesterday. Photo: Ben Gilby

Elsewhere it was a difficult afternoon for Saltdean United who boast another Impetus sponsored player in the form of Paige Walder. The East Sussex side lost 3-0 at home to Dartford. Emily Read and two from Amy Green earned the points for the visitors. 

In the day’s other game Whyteleafe drew 1-1 at home to New London Lionesses, Ellie Pace with a late equaliser for the hosts. 

Table From: Full Time/The FA

A Day Out At: Needham Market

Darrell Allen continues his journeys around the women’s football clubs of East Anglia with a trip to Needham Market yesterday for their Eastern Region Women’s Football League Division One North game with Newmarket Town.

Above: Needham Market on the attack at Bloomfields yesterday.

A Bank Holiday Sunday train trip saw me take in the Eastern Region Division 1 fixture at Bloomfields between Needham Market and Newmarket. An excellent trip on the train making a 30 minute journey to Stowmarket before changing trains and going the one stop and four minute journey to Needham Market before a lovely eight minute walk to Bloomfields for the match.

Needham Market is a wonderful facility with the women’s team playing on the 3G. One small stand overlooks the 3G with a balcony/cafe area next to it above the dressing rooms. 

As always the welcome at Bloomfields was fantastic with Freya Noel (Happy Gaffer) coming to say hello before the game and lots of the players also making an effort to welcome me before kick off. Amazing kindness considering I have no connection to the club and have only been on two previous visits. 

Above: Newmarket Town with the throw on. Photo: Darrell Allen.

Needham Market came out of the blocks firing as Jo Brawn turned over from an Eleanor Rossiter cross inside the first minute. Newmarket began looking lively and forced a safe from Needham goalkeeper Danielle Clarke on four minutes. Jo Brawn continued to look lively and should have given the hosts the lead but the keeper tipped her shot onto the bar.

It was the 13th minute when Needham Market took the lead as poor defending from Newmarket failing to clear the corner allowed Eleanor Rossiter to slot the ball into the bottom corner and give the hosts a deserved lead. Lina Nagib thought she had doubled the lead but had her goal disallowed on 19 minutes.

Newmarket grew into the game after this and it became very competitive with their number 9 forcing some good saves from Needham Market keeper Danielle Clarke. Further chances for Eleanor Rossiter, Jo Brawn and Lois Balfour followed but Newmarket stayed resolute and the score line only was a single goal lead for the Marketwomen at the break.

Needham Market came out firing just as they did in the first half with Lois Balfour and Eleanor Rossiter both hitting the crossbar inside the first minute of the second half. It is noticeable that whenever I have seen Needham they are obviously always coached to attack the start of the half early and that was noticeable once again at Bloomfields yesterday. 

Needham finally got their second just after the hour when Jo Brawn got her deserved goal after many chances and continued perseverance got her the goal on 61 minutes.

Above: Needham Market launching an attack. Photo Darrell Allen.

Two minutes later Jo Brawn added her second and Needham’s third with a fantastic goal heading home from Eleanor Rossiter’s cross. 3-0 and totally deserved for the hosts.
Freya Turner gave Newmarket hope with an elevated finish but it was always going to be nothing more than a consolation. It was poor Needham defending though and the hosts will be disappointed not to see a comfortable performance through with a clean sheet. Turner was able to execute an elevated finish into the net but like I said it was just a consolation. 

An instant response saw The Marketwomen go on the attack and an penalty superbly finished from Abbie Fisher gave the hosts a good 4-1 victory. 

Final note must go to the Newmarket keeper who suffered an ankle injury towards the end of the game but despite her heroic efforts and desires to carry on her colleagues decided she should go off and an outfield player continued in goal for the final 10 minutes.

Thank you to both teams for an enjoyable afternoon. A ground I will certainly be visiting again in the future. 

Teams: NEEDHAM MARKET: Clarke, Pannifer, Thomas, Catchpole, Rossiter, Henderson, Balfour, Fisher, Brawn, Moore, Nagib. Substitutes: Mills, Copping, Hansen, Mortimer, Hall.

NEWMARKET TOWN: Team not published.