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Carla McManus: Riding The Crest of a Wave

Impetus are exceptionally proud to announce our sponsorship of Carla McManus, the twenty year-old DLR Waves striker who is a Republic of Ireland U16, U17 and U19 international. Ben Gilby spoke to Carla about her footballing journey so far and how she is coming back from the bitter blow of injury which prevented her from taking up a scholarship offer from a US college.

Carla (pictured above by Peter Minogue Photography), is one of the brightest young stars in the FAI WNL, but association football was not the only round ball sport that she has played.

“I started off playing GAA (Gaelic sports) from a young age in my local area, I took to the sport straight away. I played football with my cousin and other boys too. I would say I was about eight or nine years-old at this stage. When playing with my cousin I would be doing the shooting and he would be in goal, he went on to be a keeper in later years and myself a striker.

“The next move was to start with a football team, I joined a boys’ underage team first, maybe U12s. I played for Ballinahown FC and from this got picked for the local academy, the Athlone District Schoolsboys/girls league (ADSL). Myself and another girl, were the only two girls on this boys’ academy team. With the ADSL we went to the Welsh International Super Cup in Wales in 2012. This was one of my best football memories from my youth, in the cup final I stepped up to take the first penalty, surrounded by two teams, on my own and the opposition of mainly boys, and I scored the penalty in front of a big crowd.

“Since then I think I always wanted to feel a feeling like on that day and that’s what keeps me focused and motivated on my goals. Shortly after this, I had to move from the boys’ team to a local girls’ team. The competition wasn’t great but I was getting to play and scoring seven or eight goals a game with Bealnamulla FC.

“From here, I got picked to represent the Midlands in the Gaynor Cup in 2015, this was U16s for me when I was 14/15. At this tournament, all the counties of Ireland compete. Here I got scouted for the Ireland U16 squad and from then on in I was called into every underage Ireland camp except for one or two due to injury or personal reasons. So I played u16s, 17s and 19s internationally.

“I played with the U16s and scored two goals in the first tournament with them in Hungary, I then played U17s and went to the Euros, the qualifiers, elite rounds and then the finals too which was an unbelievable experience. I was top goal scorer in the group for qualifiers with five goals in three games, a hat trick in the first one after coming on at half time.

“I then played two years at U19s for the Republic of Ireland. The first year I scored two goals in the qualifying rounds which were held in the Netherlands. In my second year I scored one goal in the qualifiers and then another one in the elite round. I have scored a total of 11 competitive goals for Ireland at underage, then just loads of friendlies of course.”

Carla outlined some of her most memorable moments in a Republic of Ireland shirt so far.

**Above:** Carla has played age group international football for the Republic of Ireland from U16s upwards. **Photo:** Kilkenny People.

“My best international memories would have to include my first goal for Ireland in Hungary at U16 level. My Mam and Aunty were there and it was probably the best feeling in the world, of course my mother was a ball of emotions that evening and the tears were flowing.

“The other experience that sticks out was my hat trick for Ireland U17s in Cork. Not only was it a home Euros match but I had come on at half time and I wanted to prove a point, I think I managed to make my mark in front of my friends and family in the crowd, there is no feeling quite like it. Football is the thing that means the most to me in the world, I spend most of my days thinking about how I can positively impact myself as a player whether it be going to the gym or working on things by myself or recovery from a hard session making sure my muscles are ready to go again.

“So making it to play for Ireland, playing internationally probably being the greatest thing for any player, and putting on that green shirt means even more when I put in the work, it all pays off when success comes and I am grateful for all success I have had and hopefully will have in the future.”

We then turned to the club game and Carla’s experiences in the top tier of Irish women’s club football, the FAI WNL.

“Club wise I played for Peamount United underage for roughly two seasons and played half a season with Peamount in the FAI WNL but I was 17 and unfortunately wasn’t getting enough game time, so I had to be included in the Irish set up. I moved to Kilkenny United whilst doing my leaving certificate as it suited me and I was getting game time at Women’s National League level.”

Just as Carla was hitting her straps in the FAI WNL, disaster struck – one which was to have far reaching consequences.

“Unfortunately, I suffered an ACL injury halfway into my second season with Kilkenny in May 2019. I had surgery in August 2019, two days before my birthday. The injury happened two months before I was meant to go on a scholarship to Seton Hall University in New Jersey. I came back from injury 17 months after, 15 months post op, signing for DLR Waves in August playing my first game at the end of October 2020.

Signing for Waves was the best decision I could have made and I am loving every minute there at the minute. I could not have wished for better comeback from injury.”

**Above:** Carla leaps to get a header in against Treaty United earlier this season. **Photo:** Peter Minogue Photography.

Carla is aware that her far reaching achievements at such a young age are down to the influence from some quality coaches and managers as well as a fantastic support network from her own family.

“I think for me I’ve had some great managers along the way such as Sharon Boyle, Dave Bell, Dave Connell being international managers, club managers such as Yvonne Lennon, Gerry Doyle from Bealnamulla, Shay Martin , Toney Maher from Peamount underage and from the WNL, Shane Murray at Kilkenny United. And now of course Graham Kelly and John Sullivan from DLR Waves.

“All of these managers impacted myself as a person and player over the years. They thought me to be coachable, open to learning and always wanting to acquire information and new skills to become a better playing. They taught me that sacrifice and hard work is needed on and off the pitch and to be successful I need to apply myself to the best of my ability. Each thought me to take criticism on the chin but also to be able to critically analyse my own performance and see where I could improve. The Irish set up gave me the tools to deal with more big stage games and more pressure, also thought me how to prepare right and recover right, the importance of looking after your body off the pitch and how it can impact the game. Obviously the doctors and physios I have met along the way had endless information and I think they influenced me hugely, taking into consideration what they thought us to this day, and still learning.

“At the minute I have a great support system at Waves with the management team and my teammates, sometimes I can be hard on myself because my first full game was at the start of this season against Wexford since coming back from injury, still getting back into it and they remind me how far I have come and to be patient with myself.

“DLR Waves are having a huge influence on me as a player at the minute as the standards are so high that I am challenged to be better and better every week to ensure I am playing, the competitive atmosphere is paired with a comforting one with a buzz around the squad and everyone rooting for each other, even with the competition for places.

“My parents are always supportive and encouraging of my football and training. My mam brings me to a lot of my training, matches and the gym. She loves watching me play. Both she, my dad and brother always remind me how proud they are of me, which pushes me on even more because I want to make them proud of me of course.”

I then asked Carla how she would describe herself as a player to someone who hadn’t seen her play.

**Above:** Carla sprints away for DLR Waves against reigning champions Peamount United earlier this season. **Photo:** Peter Minogue Photography.

“I always find this a tough question, I don’t really like to toot my own horn. But to answer that question, I think I am strong. I work hard off the pitch on my strength which leaves me powerful and pacey on the pitch. I am quite fast and that’s paired with my attacking mind-set. I am very direct and have one thing in mind when I get the ball and that is to create goal scoring opportunities for myself and my teammates. I don’t think there is any better feeling then scoring.

“I am a goal scorer, I love scoring. On the pitch I try be vocal despite my teammates saying I don’t speak very loud, I try give information to the girls around me, communication is so important on the pitch. I have improved on my link up play since coming to waves and my movement is getting better.

“Finally, I think I am a hard worker and I would run until I dropped for my team, whether it be pressing, defending from the top or making runs behind the defence while attacking. I am always open to learn and take any constructive criticism to make myself a better player.”

With the first chinks of light appearing at the end of the coronavirus tunnel, Carla outlined how the last sixteen months or so have impacted her.

“I think the pandemic actually gave me the time to work on myself, mentally and physically. I got to know myself and got more comfortable by myself independence being an important thing, not depending on others for gratification and having happiness with your own company. I think it thought me that spending time looking after your mind away from other people is important and not being dependent on others opinions to be happy, not looking for reassurance for my actions. I now feel completely comfortable working on myself for myself.

“It also gave me time to work on my knee rehab from March in 2020 until August and going in to join DLR Waves, there were pros and cons. The cons being that I was by myself a lot doing my recovery and could have done with a bit more guidance and observation from physios. It’s hard to know if what you are doing is right when you are on yourself. There is this uncertainty that’s hard to shake when you do not have anybody to turn to in person to look at it and give feedback.

“I think it helped me to become stronger mentally and physically going through this tedious and long recovery. It is hard to put into words just how grateful I am to be able to step on a pitch again and kick a ball, when I could not even do that for so long, it made me realise how much football actually is to me and how badly I want to play it for as long as I can and as much as I can. This mentality I have now makes me more aware to prepare right, recover right and play my heart out like every game is my last.

**Above:** Carla is loving life at DLR Waves this season. **Photo:** Peter Minogue Photography.

“I did not find the pandemic as hard as some of the other people around me, it was difficult not seeing my friends and not being able to do the things I would normally do, but I learnt to adapt and do other things to improve myself.”

With Carla being a first team regular at DLR Waves this season, I asked her to give us an idea about what life is like at the club.

“Since coming into the club and working to get back from injury I have had nothing but support and encouragement from everybody there. The energy around the team is amazing from coaches to players to the physio team and it’s just a great group working tirelessly towards the same goal.

“The intensity of the training and effort from every single person involved is unmatched and that is why I think we will go places as a team. We are a young team and the group hasn’t been together that long so we are still developing and gelling finding the right combinations. I think we have the potential to compete for the top spot in the league and cup over this season and the ones to follow.

“We have great strength and conditioning input from John Sullivan who has his own gym and was also a footballer in the men’s national league, so his experience and knowledge is very valuable to us. He got us through pre-season and got us strong and fit with zoom workouts and runs, which were very tough but we are benefiting from his blood, sweat and tears mentality.

“For myself I love training and would train and workout everyday if I could so it suits me to a T at Waves where that work ethic is nurtured and can thrive. It is exciting to be supported in the training we do collectively and individually, we are all rooting for one another and I have massive respect for this environment.

“I believe we can push on now and start really challenging to be the best. During matches, you’ll never see anyone give up and if somebody is having a bad day, their teammates are there to push them on, we also have unbelievable depth in the squad and any substitute that comes in can make an impact, we use the term game changers instead of subs.”

With this weekend heralding the beginning of the second of the three phases of the FAI WNL season, Carla looked back at how the campaign has gone so far.

**Above:** Carla putting in a shift for DLR Waves against Bohemians earlier this season. **Photo:** Peter Minogue Photography.

“I think the season is going relatively well for us so far, considering we know we haven’t been playing our best football when it comes to game day, we have more to show. We’re in fourth place, nine points behind the leaders Peamount United. However, we are still working and getting the results for the most part, some games have been a little disappointing for example the Shelbourne game we did not show up in the first half but came out and in a big performance in the second half and we were unlucky not to come away with a draw at least.

“I think the second half in the Shelbourne game and how we played just shows we can compete with the top teams because I believe we are a top team. We just need to start bringing our game to the opposition from the first minute of every game and keep pushing on getting points on the board.

“For myself I am enjoying every minute with DLR Waves. I am challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone which I think is exactly what I need. I picked up a knock at the end of the first game against Wexford but also scored my first goal of the season. I missed the cork and Galway games with that ankle sprain but I am back now fully recovered and worked my way back into the starting eleven.

“I am happy to be playing and getting good game time too. I have scored a few goals in the first half of the season but I still think I have more to give and I am growing in fitness and confidence each week, improving with each week of training and games, which is exciting, and I am really looking forward to the rest of the season.”

With the FAI WNL season progressing through the summer until November, Carla outlined her aims for the remainder of the campaign.

“Personally, I want to play well and perform consistently in every game, and of course score as many goals as I can.

“The main thing I aim to do in every game is work as hard as I can because that is the base for a good performance and from there, I think you get your rewards, there’s no excuses for not giving maximum effort in every game in my eyes. I will do the simple things right and be involved in attacks creating opportunities to score goals.

“I would also like to stay fit and injury free for the rest of the season so I will aim to recover right and prepare the best I can for the remainder of the season. I would also like to continue to enjoy playing my football as that is one of the most important aspects too and can help you play better too.”

**Above:** Goal scorer – Carla celebrating one of many superb strikes for DLR Waves this season. **Photo:** Peter Minogue Photography.

Finally, we turned back to Carla’s international career and her hopes of being selected for Vera Pauw’s senior Republic of Ireland team.

“I would love to get a call up to the senior Ireland team, but one thing I have learnt though is to not depend on this too much. I feel that this is not the be all and end all and doesn’t depict how good of a player you are or how you should value yourself as a player.

“I will work and play as well as I can regardless of whether Vera Pauw decides to call me in or not, I think it is important to know your worth as a player and know how to recognise if you are performing well or not, not just depending on that call up. I believe that way it will happen for you once you focus on your game and being the best you can possibly be and be happy doing that.

“I think I work hard in the gym and on the training ground and that I will get there in the end if I continue applying myself. Football is my priority and I spend majority of my time training and thinking about how I can be better and improve. If I get the call up I will be delighted and if I do not I won’t drop my head and it won’t change my approach or attitude towards my game.”

Impetus’ coverage of the FAI WNL sees weekly round-ups of matches, plus features with clubs and players. Every FAI WNL match is available to watch free both live and on demand at https://www.loitv.ie/en-int/page/wnl We’ll be catching up with Carla regularly throughout the season.

The Swedish Scene

@DandalBs updates us with this week’s news from around the Swedish women’s game. There’s the latest Damallsvenskan and Elitettan action plus all the latest movements and speculation ahead of the transfer window opening.

DAMALLSVENSKAN:

After the international break, action resumed with crowds still capped at 500 due to coronavirus restrictions.

The bottom two in the league met as Växjö hosted Djurgården and the outcome was a 0-0 draw to the frustration of 124 fans. It was a disappointing result mostly for Växjö, who have only scored two goals all season and earned just three points from nine matches. Djurgården’s point sees them move up a place above Piteå.

BK Häcken took advantage of AIK missing nine regular players to crush the Solna based side 10-0. Stina Blackstenius grabbed a hat-trick, Milica Mijatovic (pictured at the top of the page, photo: BK Häcken) got a brace with Anna Julia Csiki, Lotta Ökvist, Elin Rubensson, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Dilya Yr Zomers scoring the others. The 208 gathered fans went home ecstatic.

Piteå suffered a 3-0 defeat to Hammarby in front of 329 fans. Madelen Janogy (2) and Nina Jakobsson, both of whom were part of the Piteå team who won championship medals from 2018, were on the score sheet.

KIF Örebro went down 2-0 at home to Kristianstad after goals from Svendis Jane Jonsdottir and Therese Åsland in front of a crowd of 373. The result is Örebro’s third straight defeat. The game was also notable for a dramatic thunderstorm with lightning which made the teams leave the pitch very abruptly.

**Above:** Loreta Kullashi, Eskilstuna United’s match winner. **Photo:** Goalzz.

Eskilstuna United took the points against Linköping thanks to a goal from Loreta Kullashi just after the hour mark in front of 500 spectators.

Two goals in the opening 18 minutes from Olivia Schough put leaders Rosengård in charge against Vittsjö. Australian international Emily Gielnik gave the visitors hope when she got a goal back just after half-time, but Sanne Troelsgaard hit a third for the hosts with a quarter of an hour to go to the delight of the 400 fans.

Round Ten Fixtures:

Hammarby v Växjö

Kristianstads v Piteå

Rosengård v BK Häcken

AIK v Eskilstuna United

Vittsjö v Djurgården

Linköping v KIF Örebro

ELITETTAN

**Above:** Arianna Veland – scorer of the goal that lifted Morön BK into second spot. **Photo:** Top Drawer Soccer.

The game between Älvsjö AIK FF and IF Brommapojkarna was played last weekend whilst everyone else had a break. Älvsjö’s 2-1 loss sees them drop to fifth and it was one of a series of score lines that have changed the top of the table significantly. Umeå IK slipped out of the top two for the first time all season after a 2-1 loss to Morön BK who have rocketed up the league in recent weeks and are now in second spot on goal difference from IK Uppsala who have a game in hand. Morön took the honours thanks to two goals in the final six minutes after they went behind to a first half strike from Henna-Riikka Honkanen. Wilma Stenman and Arianna Veland sealed the win for Morön. IK Uppsala’s scheduled game at Sundsvalls DFF has been rearranged to 18^th August. IK Kalmar moved up to fourth after seeing off Borgeby FK 2-1. Two goals from Tabby Tindall put Kalmar in front. Sophie Sundqvist got a goal back with just under 20 minutes to go.

Latest Results: Älvsjö AIK FF 2-1, IF Brommapojkarna, Lidköpings FK 2-3 Mallbackens IF Sunne, Morön BK 2-1 Umeå IK, IFK Kalmar 2-1 Borgeby FK, IFK Norrköping 4-0 Bollstanäs SK, Jitex Mölndal 2-2 Alingsås FC United, Sundsvalls DFF P-P IK Uppsala.

This Week’s Fixtures: Sundsvalls DFF v IF Brommapojkarna, IFK Kalmar v Bollstanäs SK, Älvsjö AIK FF v Mallbackens IF Sunne, Lidköpings FK v Alingsås FC United, Morön BK v IK Uppsala, IFK Norrköping v Umeå IK, Jitex Mölndal v Borgeby FK

NEWS ROUND-UP:

BK Häcken have further strengthened their squad by signing Danish internationals Stine Larsen and Mille Gejl Jensen on 18 month deals. Striker Larsen arrives from FAWSL side Aston Villa. It had been rumoured that she was due to sign for AC Milan but failed a medical. Jensen joined from Brøndby.

**Above:** BK Häcken’s new signings, Mille Gejl Jensen (left) and Stine Larsen (right). Photo: Expressen.

Michelle De Jongh is back at Vittsjö after her half season loan stint with FC Fleury 91 in D1 Arkema. It appears that she will have to wait for the transfer window to open 15 July before she can play.

Kristianstad‘s talented youngster Evelina Duljan, who was on loan to Växjö earlier in the season, has decided to take a break from football. The star has been playing Damallsvenskan since she was 14 and was called up for Sweden’s U18 only a few days ago.

AIK‘s Honoka Hayashi has been named as one of four reserves for Japan’s Olympic squad. All 22 players will be in an Olympic bubble starting now, which means Hayashi will miss AIK’s next three matches.

**Above:** AIK’s Honoka Hayashi – called up for Japan’s Olympic squad. **Photo:** Aftonbladet.

Norwegian star Frida Maanum has announced she is leaving Linköping after four seasons, but her new club remains unknown.

Lisa Topping: Loving The Return To Football

Impetus has been hugely privileged to be able to sponsor Lisa Topping of Chorley Women (pictured above in a late spring friendly against Chester by John Shirras) from the FA Women’s National League Division One North this season. In this our final catch up of 2020/21, Lisa tells us about how the re-start of football went for her in Lancashire.

“Finally on the pitch we’ve trained in person twice a week and played a run of friendlies which has been great. It’s been a really good opportunity to be back together as a team and spend some time kicking a ball before pre-season starts in July. In such a short time we’ve really grown and developed as a team showing both individual and team improvements throughout,” explained Lisa, who was clearly overjoyed to be able to be playing for Chorley again.

“Off the pitch, not much has changed in terms of working and walking the dogs…except the better weather we’ve been having is a nice and welcomed change!”

After so long in lockdown, Lisa highlighted just what it was like to finally return to train. “The first session back was like waking up for Christmas morning. We were all buzzing to see each other again. Team banter and friendships are something special so to be able to reconnect after a long spell of virtual meetings was brilliant.

“Ben Gooding and the rest of the management team were very aware that we needed to kick a ball and that’s what we did! We weren’t run in to the ground for no reason, instead we did technical work that built up fitness in itself. And this tactic has shown, where our fitness has improved but our football skills have too.”

With the lockdown periods now hopefully behind us, Lisa reflected how the last 18 months or so has changed her.

“As a person who is family oriented, it’s been really challenging being apart from my family and not having the same social connectedness we usually have. Similarly with football, it’s always been a central element of my life and part of how I define myself and not having that ability to play has been difficult. I think until you lose something, you don’t necessarily fully appreciate it. And lockdown has definitely made me so much more appreciative of both my family and my football. Possibly two things I’ve taken for granted since they’ve never been restricted.”

Lisa had a good run of form in Chorley’s games when football was able to return, being named as players’ player of the match in one of them.

“I’ve been pleased with my form in the games. I was apprehensive at first about being rusty in game like scenarios but that soon went away after the first pass or tackle. Ben and management are really supportive and focused on development and I think that training style has really helped me improve aspects of my game. There’s a culture at Chorley of not being afraid to make mistakes and that lack of pressure really helps just enjoy playing the game.

**Above:** Lisa calm on the ball under pressure against Chester recently. **Photo:** John Shirras.

“I think we’ve done well in the games post lockdown. Two of those were against teams in our league (Bradford City and Liverpool Feds) and we had solid performances. We lost to Bradford but took tons of positives to build on in to next season and we won against Liverpool Feds who compete for the top spots in our league, so we were happy. Management have ensured that everyone has had minutes during this time too so it’s been a full squad effort. The club is doing something right because it’s worth noting that four of our U18s stepped up and played minutes with the first team during these games, demonstrating that progression is coming through.”

With there being a short break now before the traditional pre-season regime kicks in, Lisa is keen to build on the progress of the last six weeks or so of training and matches.

“I intend to get back into a running/fitness regime for the month we have off so we can keep building on the progress we’ve made. I also intend to make sure I spend my weekends wisely as football season limits how much we do so I envision a camping trip will be on the cards as well as maybe some mini breaks locally.”

With the FA recently announcing the outcome of promotion applications for next season, Lisa highlighted how it will impact Chorley in terms of the shape of the FAWNL Division One North.

“We’ve recently heard that Brighouse Town have been promoted from our league and into the FAWNL Northern Premier. It’s very much deserved for them as they’ve always been a top contender and we wish them all the best in the league above.

“Then, a local team in FC United of Manchester are coming into the league as well as Alnwick Town, which is a long six hour round trip for us. But hopefully spectators are back allowed then so I can enjoy the ride whilst my Dad drives!”

Everyone at Impetus looks forward to following Lisa and Chorley on their journey in the FAWNL Division One North next season.

Key Defender Returns For Glory Plus Award Night Wrap

It’s been yet another busy week in Western Australia as Perth Glory brought back a big name from their past and recognised last season’s key players at their awards night.

Perth Glory confirmed earlier in the week that experienced defender Kim Carroll (pictured above by Jason McCawley of Getty Images) has re-joined the club for the 2021/22 W-League season.

The 33-year-old made more than 60 appearances in purple over the course of five seasons, featuring in two Grand Finals for the Western Australians, before returning to her previous club Brisbane Roar in 2020.

Having helped the Queenslanders reach the Finals last season, the former Matilda with 54 senior international caps to her name is looking forward to playing her part in driving Glory towards the same objective in the coming campaign.

“Essentially I’m based in Perth now, so I wanted to return to my new home,” she said.

“Head coach Alex Epakis has a plan for the club in the short and long term, he’s very competitive and has that winning mentality, so it all seems very exciting.

“He’s signed some young, up-and-coming players and is looking to create a competitive environment and only good things can come from that.

“At a personal level, I want to be fit and healthy and playing at my best and challenge other people within the team as I hope they challenge me.

“And in terms of the team targets, any team would be crazy if they said they didn’t want a top-four finish.”

Epakis, meanwhile, believes that Carroll is another key signing for Glory whose positive influence will be felt on and off the field.

“Kim returning to the club is without doubt a fantastic outcome.
She has a priceless amount of experience and will bring an added level of leadership to our group.

“From all my contact with her so far, it is very clear that she is a determined character and is ready to come back to Glory and play a part in helping the team improve. “Overall, Kim is a very welcome addition and I can’t wait to work closely with her to help her perform at the best level possible.”

Glory CEO Tony Pignata is similarly pleased to see a player of Carroll’s stature back in the Glory fold.

“Kim remains one of the standout defenders in the competition and was a cornerstone of our side for many years. It’s fantastic that she has decided to return and be a part of what is a very exciting project currently underway at the club,” he said.

Meanwhile on Friday, Liz Anton was named as Perth Glory’s 2021 Most Glorious Player (MGP) Award winners at the club’s awards night held at Crown Perth.

**Above:** Liz Anton won the big award on the night at Crown Perth. **Photo:** Perth Glory FC.

Anton was rewarded for a string of fine performances during what was her maiden W-League campaign, with her fellow-New Zealander, Lily Alfeld, also claiming a trophy in the form of the W-League Players’ Player of the Year Award.

Others to feature on the W-League honours list were Western Australian duo Caitlin Doeglas and Hana Lowry who shared the W-League Golden Boot and Marianna Tabain who was acknowledged for reaching the milestone of 100 W-League games.

The Swedish Scene

Above: Caroline Seger, who earned her 215th cap for Sweden against Australia this week – more than any other European footballer. Photo: UEFA

@DandalBs highlights all of the week’s news from Sweden.

NATIONAL TEAM NEWS:

Sweden drew 0-0 against Australia in Kalmar in a match which marked Caroline Seger’s 215^th cap – a record for any European footballer man or woman. Sweden’s starting line-up and tactics will almost certainly not be the ones that they will employ against the Matildas in the Olympics. “You don’t want to give away too much” said striker Kosovare Asllani.

Sam Kerr came closest to scoring when she crashed a fierce effort against the bar from the left hand side of the box midway through the second half. Sweden had the better of the territory and possession of the first half but couldn’t get past an inspired Teagan Micah who was on debut for Australia in goal.

Chelsea captain Magdelena Eriksson left the pitch in the first half with Magdalena a bag of ice around her left calf. Team doctor Mats Börjesson insists that it won’t prevent her from playing at the Olympics.

Ben Gilby’s analysis of the game from a Matildas perspective can be read by clicking here

DAMALLSVENSKAN:

The Damallsvenskan took a week’s break due to the international window. Action begins again this weekend.

Round Nine Fixtures:

Växjö v Djurgården

Piteå v Hammarby

BK Häcken v AIK

KIF Örebro v Kristianstads

Eskilstuna United v Linköping

Rosengård v Vittsjö

ELITETTAN

**Above:** Sara Eriksson – scorer of IF Brommapojkarna’a winner at Älvsjö. **Photo:** IF Brommapojkarna Facebook.

Only one game was played last weekend, and it saw Älvsjö AIK FF host IF Brommapojkarna at Älvsjö Idrottsparken. The outcome was a major dent in the home side’s promotion ambitions. Mathilda Johansson Prakt put the visitors ahead after 68 minutes with Maria Poli equalising nine minutes later. Bromma took the points at the death when Sara Eriksson hit the winner for only her side’s third win of the campaign. All other Round Nine games will be played this weekend.

Round Nine Fixtures: Älvsjö AIK FF 2-1, IF Brommapojkarna, Lidköpings FK v Mallbackens IF Sunne, Morön BK v Umeå IK, IFK Kalmar v Borgeby FK, IFK Norrköping v Bollstanäs SK, Jitex Mölndal v Alingsås FC United, Sundsvalls DFF v IK Uppsala.

NEWS ROUND-UP:

Fridolina Rolfö has agreed to move to a new, as yet undisclosed, club and is looking very much forward to join them. Lyon and Barcelona have been rumoured as her destination, but Rolfö only says that it is very flattering to be mentioned in connection with such clubs.

KIF Örebro‘s star Jenna Hellstrom has been handed a five match suspension as a result of incidents from the match against BK Häcken on 30th May. There was a normal two game ban for accumulated yellows and for a red card offence. The additional three seems to be for cursing the referee. Hellstrom is not pleased with the long suspension, which her club unsuccessfully appealed against, and thinks she’s being victimized for not behaving as expected for a woman.

**Above:** Anna Anvegård, strongly linked with a move to Everton in the FAWSL. **Photo:** fotbollskanalen.se

As discussed in The Swedish Scene over the past month, Rosengård‘s Anna Anvegård, the Damallsvenskan top scorer 2019 and 2020 has now been strongly linked to Everton by the Telegraph Newspaper in England. Another rumoured Everton target, Hanna Bennison, now also has been interest from Bayern Munich. Rosengård’s sporting director, Therese Sjögran has previously stated that when Bennison goes, “she won’t go for just a million (kroner – approx £100,000). Bennison has a year and a half left on her contract.

Gaëlle Enganamouit, formerly a player at Eskilstuna United and Rosengård has just been announced as the new head coach of Cameroon.

International Round-Up

The last week has seen a large number of international games around the world. Ben Gilby rounds up the action.

A busy pre-Olympic spell of international action began on Thursday 10^th June when Japan produced a dominant 8-0 win over Ukraine.

Two goals each from Yuzuho Shiokoshi and new Arsenal signing Mana Iwabuchi (pictured above) set the Games’ host nation on their way. Further strikes from Saori Takarada, Hina Sugita, Mina Tanaka (penalty) and Yuka Momiki completed the rout.

Slovakia earned an impressive 1-0 win over Chile, who are in the same group as Team GB at the Olympics. Patrícia Hmírová’s strike just after the half hour mark was the difference.

Italy were another European nation who achieved a fantastuc result – seeing off a Netherlands side without Vivianne Miedema, 1-0. Cristiana Girelli’s penalty after 14 minutes sealed the victory.

Ben Gilby’s in-depth analysis of Australia’s 3-2 defeat in Denmark can be read by clicking here

Sweden celebrated Caroline Segar’s incredible achievement of making 214 appearances for her country – drawing level with Therese Sjögran at the top of the charts. Five hundred spectators were allowed into the stadium in Kalmar and saw BK Häcken’s in-form striker Stina Blackstenius grabbed the winner with 66 minutes gone.

Scotland returned from Northern Ireland with a narrow 1-0 win over Kenny Shiels’ understrength side. There was a great atmosphere at Seaview with five hundred fans watching Northern Ireland for the first time since their incredible qualification for the European Championships.

**Above:** Caroline Weir – scorer of Scotland’s winner against Northern Ireland. **Photo:** Dunfermline Press.

The Scots put the home side under pressure from the off as Claire Emslie put an effort wide at the near-post. She also hit the bar with effort later on in the opening half.

Birmingham City’s youngster Chloe McCarron had a free-kick which landed on the top of the Scottish net.

The deciding moment came with twelve minutes left. Cliftonville’s Toni-Leigh Finnigan made contact with Christie Murray in the box and a penalty was awarded. Up stepped Caroline Weir to dispatch the spot kick and Scotland left with the win.

Spain continued their excellent run of form with a straightforward 3-0 win over Belgium in Alcorcón. The Spanish were absolutely dominant, with 74 per-cent of possession and had 11 shots on target compared to just one for the Belgians.

Mariona Caldentey put the Spanish ahead just before the break before Alexia Putellas doubled the advantage from the spot after 50 minutes. Aitana Bonmati completed the scoring with 15 minutes left.

France earned a 1-0 win over Germany in Strasbourg thanks to a strike from Kenza Dali after half an hour.

Friday 11^th June saw a further four games. First, in Cartagonova, Brazil swept aside Russia 3-0. Two goals from Bruna Benites Soares either side of half time were added to by Andressa Alves da Silva’s strike nine minutes from the end.

Canada, who will face Team GB in the group stage of the Olympics, played out a 0-0 draw with the Czech Republic.

Finland and Poland were involved in a dramatic clash in Pinatar, Spain. The Finns built a 2-0 lead with two goals in as many minutes. Eveliina Summanen put them ahead with 23 minutes on the clock and Karolina Klabis’ own goal doubled their advantage shortly afterwards. Dominika Grabowska got Poland a lifeline just before the hour mark and Ewa Pajor completed the comeback with less than a quarter of an hour to go.

The Republic of Ireland recovered well after a tough first half in their visit to Iceland. The home side built a 2-0 lead within the opening fifteen minutes through goals from Agla María Albertsdóttir and Alexandra Jóhannsdóttir. Vera Pauw’s side struggled to get their passing going in windy conditions, and Dagný Brynjarsdóttir made it 3-0 before half-time. Goals from Heather Payne and Amber Barrett made things more respectable from an Irish perspective.

Portugal will take a lot of comfort from their defensive performance against the USA in a match that the World champions only won by a single goal late in the second half. Despite dominating the entire game, the USA’s sole converted effort came from Sam Mewis who headed Christen Press’ corner into the roof of the net. The USA had 26 shots on goal and earned 15 corners but Portugal worked extremely hard to stay in the game throughout.

**Above:** Jassina Blom – scorer of Belgium’s winner against Luxembourg. **Photo:** worldfootball.net

In the sole match played on 12^th June, a much changed Belgium side, playing their second match in 48 hours, squeaked past minnows Luxembourg 1-0. The Belgians totally dominated the match with 72% of possession, 27 shots on goal compared to just one for Luxembourg and 11 corners. Despite this, they only had Jassina Blom’s ninth minute strike to show for their efforts.

On Sunday 13^th June, Japan continued their goal-laden warm up spell for the Olympics with a 5-1 win over Mexico in Toshigi. Mana Iwabushi put the Japanese ahead on 36 minutes and it remained 1-0 until the break. Less than sixty seconds after the re-start, Mina Tanaka doubled Japan’s advantage. Mexico, who put in a fantastic effort throughout which saw them muster 46 per-cent of possession and have seven shots on goal, got back into the game just three minutes later when Alison Gonzalez scored. Sadly for the visitors, Yuka Momiki restored Japan’s two goal advantage four minutes later. Momoka Kinoshita and Jun Endo completed Japan’s tally in the last seventeen minutes.

Tunisia returned from Jordan with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Hazim Lamti (34) and Ala Hamdi (81).

Latvia had a difficult first half at home to Estonia, conceding four goals in less than half an hour. Lisstte Tammik (16), Berle Brant (28), Kairi Himanen (43) and Mari-Liis Lillemäe (45). Renāte Fedotova got a goal back for the Latvians in the final minute of the game.

**Above:** Berle Brant – on target for Estonia in Latvia. **Photo:** Playmaker.

Lithuania gained a 2-0 win over Faroe Islands with Rimantė Jonušaitė (16) and a penalty from Ugnė Lazdauskaitė in the 78^th minute sealing the win.

Malta won the battle of the minnows against Montenegro thanks to a strike just after the half hour mark from Jade Flask.

Despite going behind to a ninth minute strike from Croatia’s Izabela Lojna, Slovenia eventually ran out comfortable 4-1 winners. Two goals from in three minutes before half-time from Mateja Zver (41) and Lara Prašnikar (44) put the home side in front. Second half efforts from Zver (58) and Dominika Čonč completed the win.

In the day’s other game, Costa Rica made a fast start against Guatemala. Raquel Rodriguez gave them the lead after a quarter of an hour with Gloriana Villalobis making it 2-0 on 33 minutes. Gloria Aguilla gave Guatemala some hope just before the break, but Melissa Herrera’s strike after 64 minutes sealed the win for Costa Rica.

On 14^th June, the United States swept aside Jamaica 4-0 in Houston. It took just 23 seconds for the World champions to go ahead when Rose Lavelle played in Carli Lloyd in the six yard box. The USA legend took a touch and swept in home past Sydney Schneider, becoming the oldest ever goal scorer for her country at the age of 38 years and 332 days.

It was 2-0 after just seven minutes when Christen Press went down in the area and a penalty was awarded. Up stepped Lindsay Horan to net. Margaret Purce scored only her second international goal just after the 20 minute mark when she shot home at the near post after Press played her in.

It took until stoppage time at the end of the second half for the USA to get a fourth and it came courtesy of Alex Morgan. Sam Mewis chipped a ball towards Morgan around the penalty spot region for the former Spurs player to head home.

Italy gained another victory – this time against Austria, but they had to work very hard to achieve it.

Angelica Soffia put the Italians ahead after just three minutes but Nicole Billa levelled ten minutes later. It remained level until the early stages of the second period when Soffia hit her and Italy’s second (53). Back came Austria though with Carina Wenninger’s equaliser. With a quarter of an hour left, Elena Linari grabbed the winner from the spot.

Russia gained an impressive 1-0 win against Finland thanks to Nadezhda Smirnova’s goal on the hour mark.

**Above:** Russia’s Nadezhda Smirnova, match winner against Finland. **Photo:** worldfootball.net

Brazil and Canada played out a 0-0 draw.

15^th June was a busy night of action with some quite incredible results.

It is fair to say that no-one predicted the result of Netherlands’ clash with Norway in Enschede. The Scandinavians fielded a regular side, but were, incredibly completely taken apart 7-0 by the Dutch.

Vivianne Miedema put the Netherlands ahead on the quarter of an hour mark and Sherida Spitse made it 2-0 ten minutes later. It was a spell of three goals in seven minutes which totally transformed the outlook.

Jill Roord (51), an Ingrid Moe Wold own goal (53) and another strike from Miedema (57) took the tally to five. Shanice van de Sanden (73) and Danielle Van de Donk (84) completed the rout.

It was a night to forget for the Norwegians who could only muster five shots on target compared to the Netherlands’ 15.

Chile came away from Germany with a superb 0-0 and also managed to earn as many shots on target as their hosts.

Sweden and Australia battled out a 0-0 draw – for Ben Gilby’s match analysis, click here

Costa Rica swept aside Guatemala, going one better in their encounter on 13^th June with a 4-1 win. Three goals in 20 minutes decided matters in the first half. Shirley Cruz (15), Stephanie Blanco (32) and Cristin Granados (36) put the hosts in the driving seat. Andrea Alvarez (76) got one back for Guatemala before Diana Saenz completed the scoring with seven minutes left.

**Above:** Aitana Bonmati (6) and Marta Cardona (18) in celebratory mood after another great win for Spain. **Photo:** Diego Souto (Getty Images).

Spain continued their excellent run with a 3-0 win over Denmark. Aitana Bonmati put the hosts ahead in Alcorcón in first half stoppage time. Patri Guijarro doubled their advantage mid-way through the second period before Bonmati completed matters four minutes from time. It was a dominant performance from the Spaniards who mustered 19 shots to Denmark’s one.

Wales went down to a 1-0 loss to Scotland at Llanelli when Erin Cuthbert took advantage of Welsh keeper Laura O’Sullivan’s error which gave the Chelsea star an open goal to shoot into after a poor attempted pass to a team mate on the hour mark.

Cuthbert came close earlier when her effort came crashing back off of the crossbar. Her FAWSL team-mate Sophie Ingle, playing in midfield came closest for the Welsh.

The Republic of Ireland went down to their second defeat in four days against European Championship qualifiers Iceland in Reykjavik. This reverse means that Vera Pauw’s side have now lost their last seven games. The Irish were far more solid in defence that in the first encounter, allowing the home side just opportunity in the first half when Berglind Björg Þorvaldsdóttir’s effort was saved by Irish keeper Courtney Brosnan at the near post.

Amber Barrett was one of Ireland’s best players, sending an effort wide of the post. Megan Connolly also let fly with a ferocious shot from 30 yards, which Icelandic keeper Cecilía Rán Rúnarsdóttir pushed round the post.

Ireland would rue these missed opportunities as Þorvaldsdóttir put Iceland ahead. Karólína Lea Vilhjálmsdóttir doubled the Icelandic side’s advantage with ten minutes to go.

**Above:** Berglind Björg Þorvaldsdóttir’s goal put Iceland ahead against the Republic of Ireland. **Photo:** @berglindbjorg.

The final game of the international period saw USA take on Nigeria. Once again, the World champions dominated the game with 72 per-cent possession and made more than twice the number of passes than the Nigerians. However, they found it difficult again to convert possession and chances into goals. The USA scored in stoppage time at the end of each half with Christen Press netting just before half time and Lynn Williams at the end of the match.

A Caribbean Diary Part One

In this, the first of a regular series of articles for Impetus, James Thomas, the newly appointed head coach of the Trinidad and Tobago women’s national team, speaks to Ben Gilby about his footballing journey and how he aims to take the Caribbean nation to the World Cup in 2023.

**Above:** James Thomas, in his previous coaching role in the Welsh Women’s National Performance Centre. **Photo:** John Smith/Same Old Smith Photography – FAW.

James Thomas’ coaching career started at the age of 16 at Cardiff City FC and has taken him to the USA, several top level English clubs and international set-ups for both England and Wales. He is now in the early stages of an exciting opportunity on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.

“I started coaching at Cardiff City on a work experience placement for their Football in the Community scheme assisting with, and then delivering sessions at local schools, clubs and school holiday camps. This developed into a job for me and I spent about nine years working within the community scheme and Centre of Excellence at the club. During this time I also spent a season working with the Football Association of Wales, and their Girls South Wales Centre of Excellence. I went on to spend three years working in Southern California coaching at various clubs with Girls teams predominantly. When I returned from the US I had a spell as a coach for Manchester United working on their Soccer Schools program.”

“After a couple of years out of the game, I took a role working within the England Women’s & Girls Elite Talent Pathway as U16s Head Coach at their South West England Advanced Coaching Centre (ACC) in Bristol. I spent 3 years at the ACC and this led to an opportunity to join Bristol Academy WFC (now Bristol City WFC) initially as a Head Coach of the U14’s, but during my time there I also held roles as Assistant Coach of the U20’s WSL Development Squad, that featured players such as Lauren Hemp, Aimee Palmer, Flo Allen, and Lily Woodham all of whom have gone onto careers in the WSL and internationally.

“My last role at Bristol City was as Head Coach of the WSL Academy & 16-19 College programs whilst also being part of Willie Kirk’s staff in and around the first team environment.”

“In 2018 I was given the opportunity to join the Wales Women’s National Team staff and during my 3 years with the FAW, I was fortunate enough to work across a variety of roles with the U17/19 and Senior National Teams including Coach, Assistant Coach and Analyst. I also had the opportunity to be Head Coach for an experimental U16 UEFA Development Tournament that was held in Slovenia in 2019. I also spent three years working as a coach within the Women’s National Performance Centre. Outside of my commitments with the FAW, I also held the role of Assistant Manager of Cardiff City Ladies FC, who compete in the FA Women’s National League.

From working with the FAW to now taking over as the head coach of Trinidad and Tobago is a huge jump. James explained how it came about.

**Above:** James gets a point across during Wales Women’s Performance Squad Training. **Photo:** John Smith/Same Old Smith Photography – FAW

“I had been thinking for the past 12 months or so about what the next step in my development as a coach should be, and when the changes within the FAW Women’s staff started happening at the beginning of the year with staff leaving I felt that the time for me to take the next step. Although I had remained at the FAW, I felt this was the right time for me to move onto a new role that would challenge me.

“The position with Trinidad and Tobago was advertised in January, and it immediately took my interest as the standard of players they have is very good and felt that my experiences and thoughts on the game could add value to them as a national team and as I said I was looking for a challenge and challenges don’t come much bigger than trying to qualify for a FIFA World Cup!

“They had 195 coaches from around the world apply for the job, so I knew I was in for a tough challenge, but was confident that my experiences and ideas would stand me a good opportunity of progressing through the process of multiple interviews and shortly after I was contacted by the General Secretary of the National Association to formally offer me the role, which I of course accepted there and then.

“I have just relocated to the islands full time. We are launching a National Performance Program and this will see us working with the domestic players three or four times a week, so it is essential I am there full time to make sure I can control that program and to set the standards I expect of the players and staff within the environment.”

“Additionally, I have already started looking at players in Europe who have Trinidad and Tobago heritage to see if they could be added to the mix and there are a couple on the radar already.”

James outlined his plans for his first weeks and months in the job. “As far as the National teams are concerned, we are working right now on the organising camps and hopefully four friendly games ahead of our World Cup qualifying campaign with starts in November.

**Above:** Promotional artwork for the Trinidad & Tobago National Team. **Photo:** Trinidad & Tobago Football Association.

“The immediate goal is to implement a game model that will afford us the best chance of success in the qualifying campaign. The players have a ton of ability and potential, and are great athletically, but from what I’ve seen from the previous games I have watched there has been a lack of organisational structure within the team. My job and the job of my staff is to add a lot of coaching detail to the team’s game plan.”

With more places than ever before available for World Cup qualification, James confirmed that a major goal would be to make it to the tournament with the Caribbean side.

“Of course, it will be tough and we have a lot of work to do in a relatively short space of time, but that is the challenge now for the players and staff – to learn the game plan inside out so that we are able to hit the ground running come qualifying in November.”

James ended by considering what he wanted his legacy to be for women’s football in Trinidad and Tobago.

“I want to be able to look back and be proud of the work we have done and the legacy I have left. Not just in terms of the Senior National Team performances, but also the impact on the development of the game domestically.”

Impetus will be following James Thomas’ progress with Trinidad and Tobago with regular interviews over the coming months as the team embark on the road to the 2023 World Cup.

Well Organised Defence, Now To Solve the Kerr Conundrum

Above: Chelsea team-mates Sam Kerr and Magda Eriksson contest possession in Kalmar. Photo: Mia Eriksson.

Sweden 0-0 Australia

By Ben Gilby

A Sweden side who fielded a team which is likely to be considerably different from the one that they take to the Olympics, were held 0-0 by a well organised Australia in Kalmar.

It would also be fair to say that the Scandinavians will probably deploy a different formation and tactics when the two team meet in the Games on 24^th June in Saitama.

The match was a celebration of legendary star Caroline Seger who played her 215^th international match, becoming the most capped European footballer of all time, male or female.

After conceding 13 goals in their three previous games under Tony Gustavsson, the Matildas were far more solid defensively throughout. Once more they lined up with a back three, but the extra time in camp since the previous friendly with Denmark last Thursday had clearly resulted in greater understanding and solidity.

There were several changes in the Australian starting line-up as Teagan Micah made her debut in goal, midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross made her first start and Emily Gielnik came in for Caitlin Foord.

Sweden started strongly and mustered 80% possession in the opening twenty minutes, but they found the Matildas defence hard to breach and when they did, Micah was in good form between the sticks.

This was the key difference from the previous games against Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark where Australia conceded at least once when under early pressure. The dam held and the Matildas confidence grew noticeably.

The presence of Gielnik was offering more of a threat up front and this change also resulted in Kyah Simon being more prominent in dangerous positions. She came close just after the half hour mark when Sam Kerr crossed in from the right and the Blacktown born forward hit an effort just over.

**Above:** Emily Gielnik, who had an influential evening for the Matildas. **Photo:** Mia Eriksson via @TheMatildas

However, Tony Gustavsson still hasn’t really solved the conundrum of how to use Kerr effectively. The Chelsea star was having to drop deep or come wide in a bid to gain possession. At the moment, defences are finding it all too easy to nullify her threat and the Matildas need to use the five week period between now and the Olympics to work out how to get the best out of their superstar.

Kerr never stopped trying and did come the closest to scoring when Gielnik played her in wide on the left. The Western Australian cut in and unleashed a vicious effort which crashed back off of the bar.

Kyra Cooney-Cross had a very decent first start. Once the 19 year-old starlet got up to the pace of the game, she looked calm and composed on the ball and looking to make dangerous passes. This will be the first of what will certainly be countless starts in the green and gold over the coming decade.

Ellie Carpenter was hugely impressive coming forward once more. Seger found it increasingly challenging to live with the Cowra born star’s pace.

Hayley Raso put in a sterling shift defensively as well, keeping Madelen Janogy at arm’s length for much of the game. This did though reduce Raso’s potential for trademark surging runs forward, but the Queenslander had another impressive game.

Johanna Rytting Kaneryd was prominent for the Swedes and Kosovare Asllani fired in a shot into the side netting in the second half when squaring a pass could well have resulted in a goal.

With five minutes left, a Swedish corner rebounded off the bar, but with Australia bringing more defenders on – including Laura Brock replacing Kerr, who had ice taped to her thigh – the home side couldn’t break through.

Immediate concerns surrounding Kerr seem misplaced as the striker has regularly had ice applied to the same area since hitting a hat-trick against West Ham United in December for Chelsea. Similar concerns for her FAWSL team-mate Magda Eriksson, who had to leave the pitch with ice on her calf in the first half have also been downgraded thanks to Swedish team doctor Mats Börjesson who has stated that he believes she will be fine for the Olympics.

**Above:** The Australia team who played Sweden in Kalmar last night: *Back Row:* Clare Polkinghorne, Teagan Micah, Steph Catley, Emily Gielnik, Emily Van Egmond, Kyra Cooney-Cross. *Front Row:* Tameka Yallop, Sam Kerr, Kyah Simon, Hayley Raso, Ellie Carpenter. **Photo**: @TheMatildas

Teams: SWEDEN: Falk, Ilestedt, Berglund, Eriksson, Roddar, Angeldahl, Asllani, Seger, Rytting Kaneryd, Blomqvist, Janogy. Substitutes used: Kullberg, Blackstenius, Björn, Rolfö, Curmark, Jakobsson.

AUSTRALIA: Micah, Catley, Polkinghorne, Carpenter, Yallop, Cooney-Cross, Van Egmond, Raso, Kerr, Gielnik, Simon. Substitutes used: Kennedy, Nevin, Fowler, Brock, Luik.

Attendance: 500 (Covid restricted crowd).

Lots to Celebrate For Chorley

Chorley Women FC Reserves 9-1 AFC Mossley

By Janet Mitchell

**Above:** Chorley Reserves celebrate their Cup Final win in the GMWFL Premier Division Cup Final. **Photo:** John Shirras.

The two teams competing in yesterday’s Greater Manchester Women’s Football League Premier Division Cup Final have played each other twice over the last few weeks, both teams winning their home fixtures so the game was nicely poised.

The match began evenly with both teams having half chances in the first few minutes. Grace Mills looking very dangerous down Chorley’s right and Mossley’s number eight looking dangerous down their left. The deadlock was broken around the 10 minute mark, excellent footwork from Jade Foster and a deft touch from Ellie Cartwright allowed Valentine to shoot calmly past the Mossley keeper 1-0.

Mills then went close minutes later but couldn’t convert. It was Mossley’s turn to go close with a great drive from the left but Amelia Knowles in the Chorley goal made a fabulous diving save to the left. Mossley’s number eight was looking lively again minutes later but this time her attempt just flew over the bar. A cracking cup tie was emerging and it was end to end stuff. However just before the drinks break Ellie Fitton scored a bullet header from a Mills corner for 2-0.

Mossley came out firing on all cylinders and had the first chance after the drinks break, a low cross from the right this time and somehow Knowles in the Chorley goal pulled off a point blank save when it seemed the striker must score. In the next 10 minutes, both teams had half chances, substitutions were made for both teams as the heat played a factor but it was Chorley sub Chloe Drury who made the biggest impact, a low cross from her to Mills saw her get the goal her performance deserved and Chorley went in 3-0 at the break. A truly entertaining first half and some really good football on display from both teams.

**Above:** Ellie Fitton celebrates scoring one of her three goals for Chorley in the Cup Final. **Photo:** John Shirras.

Shortly into the second half a free kick from Mills was converted by Fitton, her second headed goal of the game and Chorley began to dominate. Haase who had come on at half time unfortunately sustained a knee injury early in the half and was forced off the pitch. Mills again went close after she stole the ball on the half way line and let fly from 20 yards with a terrific strike that thundered against the cross bar. Shortly after another Chorley corner was headed in by Drury from close range for 5-0.

Darby, Williams & Valentine were working hard in the Chorley midfield not allowing Mossley to have as much of the ball, Abbey Smith and Hannah Derbyshire were outstanding in defence allowing Mossley very few chances. Mills scored her second of the game to make it 6-0, calmly converting after good build up play through the midfield.

Chorley made it 7-0 minutes later when Captain Fitton popped up in the penalty area to tap in her hat trick after good work from Cartwright and Shirras on the right. Mossley to their absolute credit never gave up but Knowles was in outstanding form and stood tall in a one on one to protect Chorley’s clean sheet.

Just after the drinks break Cartwright made it 8-0 with a cool side footed finish into the corner. Mossley kept going but Chorley remained resolute at the back with Worthington and Brooke sweeping up any danger. Williams then scored an absolute cracker from all of 25 yards to make it 9-0 before in the last moments of the game Mossley got the goal their performance and hard work deserved, a lovely finish from the right as the game finished 9-1.

A fantastic first half from both teams, the first goal of the second half was always going to be crucial and Chorley went on to dominate in the second. A thoroughly entertaining cup final with both teams playing some excellent football at times but on the day Chorley were more clinical with their chances and very much deserved their win.

It’s been a really difficult season for the Reserves in particular as the rules around Covid affected them more than the first and U18s. Since the re-start it’s fair to say they’ve had mixed results and performances but you cannot fault the effort and performance on show today. A special mention for manager Andy Thornhill who stepped in part way through the season and that’s never easy, the girls did him and the club proud today.

**Above:** Chorley U18s celebrate after sealing the Greater Manchester Women’s Football League U18s championship. **Photo:** @ChorleyWomenFC

The Cup win was the icing on the cake for the Club this weekend as on Saturday, Chorley U18s finished their season with their tenth win in ten games and celebrated being GMWFL U18s Champions.

The future looks bright for the Club, who from next season will have three open age women’s teams;

Chorley’s Development Team will compete in the North West Regional Division One North

Chorley Reserves will compete in the FAWNL Reserve Northern Division.

Chorley’s first team will continue to compete in the FAWNL Division 1 North

First Team Manager Ben Gooden said ‘’We feel it’s a great time to join the club, we’ve restructured in order to develop the players the best we can by providing competitive football in the right environment. We are excited already for next season.’’

Trials for all three teams are confirmed for Sunday 20^th June 2021 and Sunday 27^th June 2021 at Coppull United FC, for more information please check out @ChorleyWomenFC on Twitter or get in touch with the club.

Artwork: Graphics by PW.

Four More Added As Perth Aim For Glory

Perth Glory have continued their squad construction for the 2021/22 W-League season by re-signing a further three players and announcing the arrival of Young Matilda Aideen Keane.

The club first revealed just over a week ago that long-serving defender Sarah Carroll had re-signed. The versatile 26-year-old debuted for Glory back in 2011 and has become one of the club’s greatest ever servants in the intervening ten seasons, racking up more than 80 appearances and featuring in three Grand Finals.

With the Glory squad taking shape rapidly ahead of the 2021/22 campaign, Carroll is excited at the prospect of representing her hometown club once again.

“The environment and culture that head coach Alex Epakis built last year with the group is very positive,” she said.

“He has big aspirations for the group, the club and the direction in which he wants to go and I believe in what he’s trying to instil into the group.

**Above:** Sarah Carroll – back for another season in Perth purple. **Photo:** Perth Glory FC

“It’s definitely something that I want to be a part of. In terms of looking forward to next year, Alex has had more time to put his spin on things this year and he’s working really hard to put together a quality team that can compete and is capable of success.

“I’m really happy to be involved again and hopefully we can see Perth back up there and competing strongly with the rest of the league.”

Epakis, meanwhile, feels that Carroll’s experience and versatility will again make her an invaluable member of the Glory squad.

“I am really happy to have Sarah return for next season,” he said, “She brings a fantastic demeanour and conducts herself as a benchmark professional on and off the field.

“Sarah will be important in using her leadership to help to maintain our culture and ensure that the younger players continue to transition well into the team. “She has the capacity to play in a number of positions and I know I will be able to rely on her to do whatever job is needed for the team week in, week out.”

Earlier this week, the club made ensured that they kept more of their exciting young talent in WA when they confirmed that highly-rated teenagers Isabella Wallhead and Abbey Green have re-signed with the club.

**Above:** Isabella Wallhead in action for Perth Glory last season against Melbourne City’s Rhali Dobson. **Photo:** Tom McCarthy.

The duo, both aged 18, continued their development last season with defender Wallhead starting four games and making a further three appearances as a substitute and attacker Green producing two lively cameos off the bench before injury unfortunately brought her campaign to a premature end.

The Perth locals, who went head-to-head with their respective NPLW WA sides Hyundai NTC Women and Murdoch University Melville FC last week, are excited at the prospect of donning the famous purple once again in 2021/22.

“I’m thrilled to be signing again for Glory and can’t wait to see what this season brings us,” said Wallhead. “Although we faced many hurdles last season, the camaraderie between the players and staff was amazing to be a part of.

“It allowed me to be more confident in my abilities knowing that the team would have my back. “I was beyond happy last year to get the game-time I did and can’t wait to continue improving in the coming season.”

Green was equally delighted: “I’m also really excited to get the opportunity to play again this season. Everyone’s determined to have a more successful season this year and prove ourselves as a team which I’m grateful to be a part of.”

**Above:** Abbey Green – looking to put a tough 2021 behind her with another year at Perth Glory. **Photo:** Perth Glory FC

Epakis, meanwhile, is confident that both players are capable of making a major contribution to the Glory cause in the upcoming campaign.

“Bella showed last season that despite her age, she can go toe-to-toe with strong opposition players. “She developed throughout the course of the season and we are happy to have given her another opportunity to be able to continue to represent her home State.

“Bella will have the ability to further grow and develop within the environment and have the opportunity to learn from senior players. She is a player with a great skill-set and I can’t wait to work with to her find another level in her game next season.”

“The same applies to Abbey who unfortunately sustained an injury early in the season which kept her off the field for the majority of the year. It was disappointing, as she certainly would have played a part in helping the squad. Nonetheless, she is now fully recovered, fit and extremely determined to represent Glory again.

“As a WA local, Abbey certainly brings the effort and desire to ensure her home club is ready to compete strongly in the competition next season and I am excited to see how she performs. I’ll be ensuring that she gets the right support and coaching to really showcase her ability.”

Then at the end of the week came the announcement that another young star was moving to the club, this time from New South Wales in the shape of Aideen Keane.

**Above:** Perth Glory announce the arrival of Aideen Keane. **Photo:** Perth Glory FC

The 19-year-old Young Matildas representative gained her first taste of W-League football with Western Sydney Wanderers last term and is currently starring for Northern Tigers in the NPL NSW.

Keane, who has scored four goals in ten appearances for the Tigers this season, is relishing the prospect of playing her part in what she believes is a very exciting project currently underway at Glory.

“I’m really excited to be there because I think it’s the best place for me to get a chance to show what I’m made of,” she said.

“I think I’m going to get the opportunities at Glory and be able to develop into the best player I can be and show that off. I really want to try and solidify my spot in the team and just do as much as I can for the team to be in the best position we can be to win games and make the Finals.”

Glory Head Coach Alex Epakis, meanwhile, feels that Keane’s all-action playing style makes her a perfect fit for the group which he is assembling.

“Aideen is a fantastic addition to our squad and I am really happy that she has decided to call Glory home for next season. Her youth international experience to date shows that she is a player of immense promise and is highly regarded.

“She is such a blockbuster player who has very intense actions and movement with and without the ball and she will certainly add attacking qualities to our team in the front third. Our attacking style of play is going to be a key aspect for us as a team next season and having Aideen ensures that we have great attacking options to really bring that dynamic type of play to life. I know she works extremely hard and she will certainly be a strong and competitive presence within the team.”

“Furthermore, Aideen has made the move to Perth because she believes in the vision that we are heading in and feels that she can play a part in helping us achieve our goals as a club. I know that she is extremely hungry to keep improving her game and has a really strong mindset in terms of helping the team as well as individually refining her own skill-set. I am really excited to have her as part of the Glory family.”

Those sentiments were echoed by Perth Glory CEO Tony Pignata.

“Alex is building a dynamic, hungry and talented squad for next season,” he said, I’m confident there will be a very competitive Glory side in 2021/22.”