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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 31^st October. Semi-Final ties are scheduled for Sunday 14^th November and the 2021 Final is scheduled for Sunday 5^th December.

SWF Championship Cup – 2^nd 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 19^th September. Semi-Final ties are scheduled for Sunday 7^th November and the 2021 Final is scheduled for Sunday 28^th 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.

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.

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.

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.

Ellie Carpenter: A Brilliant Player And Getting Better

Last week, Ellie Carpenter was announced as both the Australian PFA’s Player of Year and Young Player of the Year. Impetus’ Kieran Yap outlines the continued growth of this outstanding 21 year-old from Cowra.

Above: Ellie Carpenter went toe-by-toe with Megan Rapinoe at the Olympics and came out on top. Photo: Getty Images.

Sam Kerr topped the scoring in England, won three trophies and made a Champions League final. In the months after, she scored six goals as Australia finished in the top four at the Olympics.

It felt inevitable that when Australia’s footballers voted for the PFA player of the year, the captain would take out the top award. Instead they named Ellie Carpenter, the 21-year-old defender who also, more predictably took out the Young Footballer Of The Year.

It is the correct decision, but that does not make it any less amazing.

In the space of five years, Carpenter has gone from young player with exciting potential to a talented but occasionally vulnerable right back.

She emerged from 2021 as an almost complete footballer.

**Above:** Ellie Carpenter in action during the pre-Olympics friendly match between Japan and Australia. **Photo:** Masashi Hara/Getty Images.

After a breakout World Cup in 2019 and a strong W-League season at Melbourne City, Carpenter signed for Olympique Lyonnais.

The player that has emerged from a season at the powerhouse club is recognizable and familiar but something has changed.

Watching her play for Australia for the first time since her move to France felt like a cliché’d scene from a superhero movie.

It was her, but she looked different somehow as if she had gained strength, added some swagger and was realizing what she was capable of.

She has simply, gone to another level in every department, athletically, tactically and technically.

Carpenter’s true value to The Matildas is best measured in her absence. In the friendly games that she missed, Australia conceded 10 goals with eight of them coming from the right side of defence.

Her return to the line up coincided with steadily improving performances by the whole team. She provided stability and pace as the back and could trouble teams when she moved forward.

When she was suspended against the U.S.A in the Bronze medal match, Megan Rapinoe ran riot scoring a double. The winger had been subdued to the point of frustration by Carpenter in the group stage.

**Above:** Ellie Carpenter – a stand out player across the pitch for the Matildas. **Photo:** Getty Images.

Carpenter has been Australia’s best player at centre back, at full back and practically as a winger at times. She is one of the best defensive players and attacking weapons.

She is a player that opposition teams need to plan around and worry about how she will be deployed. For a defender that’s remarkable.

To be so irreplaceable for club and country at this stage in her career is rare and clearly her peers are aware of her value.

Amongst Australia’s entire list of talented players no woman has won the Young Footballer of the Year and Footballer Of The Year simultaneously.

She is also the reigning AFC Asian Player Of The Year and been voted Lyon’s best new signing.

At 21 years old, Ellie Carpenter has reached the pinnacle of the game and is still improving.

We are still years away from finding out how good she could become, but we will be privileged to watch and find out.

Congratulations Ellie Carpenter.

Last month Impetus’ Ben Gilby profiled Ellie Carpenter for the site. His article can be read here: https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2021/07/20/ellie-carpenter-cowra-born-superstar-smashing-it-in-lyon/

PFA Australia logo

Lyon Off And Running

Olympique Lyonnais 3-0 Stade de Reims

Exclusive Words and Photos by Jean-Pierre Thiesset at the Groupama Training Centre for Impetus.

Above: Christiane Endler dives to make a save on her D1 Arkema debut for Olympique Lyonnais. Photos exclusive to Impetus by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

Lyon started by playing very high on the field and putting a lot of pressure on Reims. Quickly they obtainedcorner kicks and after six minutes, Reims’ Easther Mayi Kith put the ball in her own goal whilst trying to clear a dangerous corner kick played in by Amel Majri.

Four minutes later, Delphine Cascarino was in acres of space outside and hit an effort into the left hand corner of the net from 20 yards which rocketed just under the cross bar and in.

**Above:** Delphine Cascarino, scorer of Lyon’s second goal, in action against Reims last night. **Photo exclusive to Impetus** by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

Lyon had a lot of opportunities to extend their lead further, but things got a bit messy approaching goal. Chances were not exclusively going the way of the home side as, after 22 minutes, Christiane Endler had to make a high class save. But overall, Reims were never able to put their game in place.

Lyon defenders stopped all of the tentative attacks from Reims and the young Alice Sombath had an excellent game alongside Wendie Renard in the central defence. Sombath was very calm, and she showed all her good skills. At half time, the score was still 2-0.

**Above:** Young defender Alice Sombath had a solid game for Olympique Lyonnais. **Photo exclusive to Impetus** by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

The second half started as the first one with a lot of pressure from Lyon and Reims had more and more problems to keep the hosts out. Again, there were a lot of opportunities for Lyon but they were not able to transform those in goals. On the Reims side, it was more and more difficult to even approach to the Lyon goal.

**Above:** Selma Bacha (far left) scores Olympique Lyonnais’ third goal of the night. **Photo exclusive to Impetus** by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

We had to wait until the last moment of the game at the ninety third minute to see the third goal for Lyon when Emelyne Laurent passed the ball at Selma Bacha who was very well placed near the penalty spot to steer home the last goal of the night.

It was a pleasant game to follow even if Lyon was too strong for Reims who tried to play their game throughout.

**Above:** Reims captain Rachel Corboz (10) in action last night. **Photo exclusive to Impetus** by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

Speaking exclusively to Impetus after the game, Rachel Corboz (Reims Captain) told me “It was always very hard to play Lyon at home”. I guess that they were also happy not to have let Lyon score more goals. They will have better games in the rest of this season as they have good players.

As shown by the statistics of the game, Lyon dominated the match from the beginning to the end.

For Lyon: 30 shots (12 on target), 66% of possession, 578 passes (84% successful), 12 corner kicks.

For Reims: 7 shots (2 on target), 34% of possession, 310 passes (66% successful), 0 corner kicks.

**Above:** The official team sheet provided to the media at the game. **Photo exclusive to Impetus** by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.

Goals: Mayi Kith (OG) 6, Cascarino 10, Bacha 90+3.

A Night Out At: Thetford Town

Darrell Allen shares his experience in words and pictures of last night’s pre-season friendly between tier eight Thetford Town and a Cambridge City Under 18 side.

Above: Cambridge City get a shot in on goal at Thetford Town last night. Photo: Darrell Allen.

Thetford Town 0-6 Cambridge City XI

A rare Friday night Norfolk Women’s Football friendly saw me make the short train journey from Norwich to Thetford and then a short walk across to Mundford Road to see tier seven Norfolk Women’s and Girls Football League Division Two side Thetford Town host a Cambridge City XI in a pre-season friendly.

It was all set for a memorable occasion under the lights and the crowd came in good numbers ahead of the 7.30pm kick off with around 50-60 in attendance which I thought was very impressive.

Thetford Town as a whole club made a big effort to make the occasion enjoyable by opening up their new modern clubhouse for the evening with friendly staff on duty making it a warm and welcoming experience.

I was also delighted that Thetford Town manager David Skipp found me before kick off to give me a hand written Thetford team sheet complete with squad numbers and then even came back closer to kick off to give amendments to me. Cambridge City’s squad was mostly made up of U18’s and I totally respect their wishes to have no names published.

**Above:** Cambridge City break through the midfield at Thetford Town last night. **Photo:** Darrell Allen.

In terms of the game itself the first Cambridge City were the dominant force during the first half period, Number six opening the scoring after around five minutes with a fantastic chip across the keeper from the right of the area and could have added a second but it went wide two minutes later from a cross.

It wasn’t long until the lead was doubled thanks to number seven for Cambridge City with a lovely run and finish from the left hand side. City tried to force more chances but found Thetford’s rock Chloe Webb in the way who executed some unbelievable clearances to keep Thetford in the game.

Dana Howard and Rachel Lynch were also noticeable performers for Thetford, especially Lynch who tried to make things happen with her long Rory Delap style throw ins.

Before half time, number six and number seven for Cambridge City completed their braces. City’s third goal was a lovely finish from number seven before number six scored direct from a corner.

Thetford keeper Lydia Ward made some great saves to deny the visitors and Chelsea Page had an effort for the hosts, but the through ball was headed away. Page looked lively all evening and did her very best to make things happen.

**Above:** Action takes place in front of the main stand at Thetford Town. **Photo:** Darrell Allen.

Half Time – Thetford Town 0-4 Cambridge City XI.

The second half saw a much more improved Thetford Town performance and manager David Skipp will be sure to be happy with how much more stronger they looked and assured at the back after switching to four at the back.

Cambridge made it five with number six completing her hat trick with a shot that went in off the bar. Cambridge City’s number 16 had three shots in quick succession that were all dealt with superbly well by Ward.

The evening was completed when number 16 scored a terrific free kick to round off the scoring. Thank you to both teams for the friendly welcome on the evening and good luck for your season ahead.

Teams: THETFORD TOWN: 1: Lydia Ward, 2: Saysha Levy-Twomey, 3: Rachel lynch, 4: Chloe Webb, 9: Becky White, 10: Chelsea Page, 16: Charlotte Howard, 12: Sophie Burr-Walpole, 15: Mia Bambury, 14: Jess Knight, Subs: 8: Emily Bullott, 3: Ellie-Mae Davis and 7: Shannon Richardson.

CAMBRIDGE CITY XI: An U18 squad so respected wishes of club and did not publish names.

Ward’s Well Organised Villa Narrowly Lose To Full Strength Chelsea

Chelsea 1-0 Aston Villa

Words and Pictures by Ben Gilby

Above: Chelsea celebrate after Beth England’s first half header sealed their 1-0 win at Kingsmeadow. Photo: Ben Gilby

Chelsea ended their pre-season campaign with victory over Aston Villa in front of over 1,000 noisy spectators at Kingsmeadow.

It was a disjointed performance from Emma Hayes Champions, although with all her returning Olympians in action for the first time since returning from Tokyo, it was to be expected. The positives for Chelsea were a run out for all the senior players with the exception of Lauren James who Hayes has stated will not be ready for a while yet.

**Above:** Chelsea’s starting eleven last night – (Back Row:) Jess Carter, Melanbie Leupolz, Millie Bright, Ann-Katrin Berger, Magda Eriksson, Niamh Charles. (Front Row): Ji, Erin Cuthbert, Pernille Harder, Beth England, Guro Reiten. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

Despite the defeat, Villa boss Carla Ward will surely be very pleased with her squad’s showing. Exceptionally well organised at the back with Alisha Lehmann a big threat along the right hand side and Hannah Hampton solid in goal.

**Above:** Alisha Lehmann, the pick of the crop for Aston Villa, here seen getting away from Guro Reiten. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

In a cagey opening, the vast majority of play from a Chelsea perspective was through the middle. Erin Cuthbert was finding acres of space on the left but not found with any regularity by her team mates. This was a missed opportunity for the Blues as on the occasions the Scottish terrier was involved, she created real danger.

**Above:** Erin Cuthbert, reliable and strong once more. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

Villa created several opportunities in the first half with the Lehmann providing balls across for Freya Gregory, but her finishing was off target.

**Above:** Freya Gregory fires in an effort for Aston Villa in the first half. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

The Blues punished Villa for these missed opportunities on 24 minutes when Guro Reiten’s cross was headed in by Beth England.

**Above:** Beth England, scorer of Chelsea’s only goal. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

Chelsea struggled to construct real out and out chances on the night and when they did, they found Hannah Hampton in decent form in the Villa goal.

**Above:** Hannah Hampton clears the danger whilst under pressure from Beth England. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

Cuthbert was very unlucky not to have doubled Chelsea’s lead on the hour when her shot went agonizingly wide and not long afterwards, Pernille Harder’s effort lacked the power to trouble Hampton.

**Above:** Pernille Harder, who had an effort was saved by Hannah Hampton. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

With 20 minutes to go, Chelsea brought on nine substitutes with only Jess Carter and Magda Eriksson remaining on the pitch.

**Above:** It was another assured performance at the back from Magda Eriksson, one of only two players who played the full 90 minutes for Chelsea. **Photo:** Ben Gilby.

These raft of changes did bring the opportunity for the renewal of the telepathic partnership between Fran Kirby and Sam Kerr. There was one glorious link up between the two at the death when Kirby popped up on the left flank and played a sublime ball into Kerr who shot wide.

**Above:** Sam Kerr put in a 20 minute cameo from the bench. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

With the FASWL starting next week, both teams will have work to do to build on what was on display last night. Chelsea journey to the Emirates to take on Arsenal in a mouth watering clash and Aston Villa need to find a way of finishing the chances that Lehmann creates when they host newly promoted Leicester City. But, for now it’s just great for the fans to be able to see their heroes again before the pressure of domestic and European club football begins again.

To see Ben Gilby’s full photo gallery of 54 pictures from the game, click on this link to visit our @ImpetusFootball Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ImpetusFootball/photos/pcb.127657239592529/127656686259251/ Don’t forget to “like” and follow the page whilst you’re there!

**Above:** More classy touches from Melanie Leupolz at Kingsmeadow last night. **Photo:** Ben Gilby

Teams: CHELSEA: Berger (Musovic 69); Carter, Bright (Nouwen 69), Eriksson, Charles (Fox 69); Ji (Spence 69), Leupolz (Ingle 69); Cuthbert (Fleming 69), Harder (Kirby 69), Reiten (Andersson 69); England (Kerr 69). Substitute Not Used: Telford (GK).

Scorer: England 24.

ASTON VILLA: Hampton (Rogers 68), Mayling, Sargeant (Ndow 31), Asante, Pacheco, McLoughlin, Allen, Trialist (Brown 62), Lehmann (Hayles 82), Boye-Hlorkah, Gregory (Trialist 68). Substitutes Not Used: Arthur, Goodwin, McAteer, Rabjohn.

Attendance: 1,000.

The Swedish Scene

@DandalBs brings us his Saturday morning round-up of all the week’s news from Sweden. This time, as well as the return of the Damallsvenskan and yet more drama at the top of the Elitettan, there is a record transfer fee paid for a Swedish star as Hanna Bennison’s move to Everton, first mentioned here many months ago, finally took place.

Above: Hanna Bennison pictured at Everton after her transfer for a record fee. Photo: Everton FC.

UEFA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE NEWS:

Kristianstad were denied a place in the UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage after they fell to a 3-1 defeat to Bordeaux who finished third in the French D1 Arkema. Mia Carlsson scored Kristianstad’s only goal.

**Above:** Kristianstad’s UEFA Champions League journey is over after a brave battle against Bordeaux. **Photo:** SVT.

BK Häcken have been drawn against Norwegian champions Vålerenga in the next stage of the UEFA Champions League qualifying path with the first leg in Norway. Speaking about the draw, Häcken head coach Mats Gren said: “I know them, we’ve been there watching players. They work hard and try to play football, but are definitely within our reach.”

Rosengård will face German side Hoffenheim in the same competition with the first leg in Sweden. Renée Slegers commented that: “There are no good or bad draws.”

DAMALLSVENSKAN:

**Above:** AIK celebrate Linda Hallin’s goal which won the derby. **Photo:** Aftonbladet.

AIK gained a vital 1-0 win over bitter rivals Djurgården thanks to a goal from Linda Hallin. For a long time, the match looked destined to finish goalless, but a scramble in the box after a corner gave AIK the win to the delight of the majority of the 427 supporters present.

Piteå came from behind to draw 1-1 with Linköping after Cornelia Kapocs put the visitors ahead. Fanny Andersson leveled in front of 624 fans. Piteå will be slightly more pleased with a point than their opponents.

Rosengård thrashed KIF Örebro 6-0 thanks to goals from Ria Öling (2), Mimmi Larsson, Jelena Cankovic, Sanne Troelsgaard and 16 year-old debutant Bea Sprung. Four hundred fans watched Rosengård completely dominate their opposition.

**Above:** Sixteen-year-old Bea Sprung who scored in her first appearance for Rosengård. **Photo:** SVT.

Växjö and Vittsjö played out a goalless draw in front of 317 fans.

Eskilstuna United picked up an impressive 2-0 win at home to Hammarby with Mia Jalkerud and Felicia Rogic scoring within the opening 17 minutes to the surprise of the gathered 450 fans.

In the battle of two of Sweden’s UEFA Champions League sides, Kristianstad went down to a 3-1 loss to BK Häcken. Stina Blackstenius, Stine Larsen, and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd put Häcken in the driving seat. Anna Welin got a goal back for Kristianstad in stoppage time which meant that the home crowd of 225 had something to cheer.

Round Fourteen Fixtures:

AIK v Kristianstads (already played – 1-1 draw)

Vittsjö v Rosengård

Djurgården v Växjö

BK Häcken v Hammarby

Eskilstuna United v Piteå

KIF Örebro v Linköping

ELITETTAN

**Above:** Lisa Johansson whose goal earned Alingsås FC United a superb point at leaders Umeå IK. **Photo:** Göteborgs-Posten.

It was another weekend of dropped points for the top two as the promotion battle from the Elitettan to the Damallsvenskan continues to provide real drama. Umeå IK are top by three points despite only achieving a 1-1 draw at home to tenth-placed Alingsås FC United in a game which saw them rely on an equalizing goal from Monica Bah with eight minutes left to save the blushes of the 445 fans present. Lisa Johansson had put Alingsås ahead on the hour mark. Second-placed IK Uppsala couldn’t take advantage as they blew a 2-0 lead against fellow promotion chasers Morön BK in a game that eventually ended 2-2. Ida Stromblad and Isabella Mattson put the hosts well clear to the delight of the 232 spectators, but two goals in eight minutes from Arianna Veland earned a draw for Morön. IFK Kalmar moved up to third with an impressive 3-1 win at IF Brommapojkarna who have rocketed up the table in recent weeks to join the promotion battle. Jenny Stadin and Tabby Tindell put Kalmar two up with less than 20 minutes gone before Mathilda Prakt got one back for Bromma. Tindell grabbed the sealer on 57 minutes in front of 89 fans.

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

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

NEWS ROUND-UP:

Above: Hanna Bennison signs for Everton. **Photo:** Everton FC.

Rosengård have announced the departure of teen star Hanna Bennison after nine years at the club and she has joined Everton for “a substantial six-figure fee” which is rumoured to be somewhere in the region of €200,000. This would be the highest fee ever paid for a Swedish player. Bennison’s wages could make her the best-paid Swedish player abroad.

BK Häcken‘s Stina Blackstenius, who has been very successful both in club football and with Sweden at the Olympics, says she is ready to leave Häcken for a bigger European club, without being specific about where or when. She is out of contract after this season. Filippa Angeldahl is also strongly tipped to depart, but BK Häcken’s head coach Mats Gren remains confident that both will stay. As the Damallsvenskan transfer window is now closed, neither player can be replaced should they depart.

**Above:** Stina Blackstenius is open to a move overseas from BK Häcken **Photo:** Adam Ihse/ TT,

Rosengård confirms that goalkeeper Stephanie Labbé, who won a gold medal with Canada at the Olympic Games earlier this summer is leaving the club for Paris St. Germain.

National team legend Caroline Seger announced that she will continue to be available for selection for Sweden. “It’s like I’ve always said, as long as I am performing and motivated and playing football above all in Rosengård, I’m in the national team. This hasn’t changed after the Olympics. It will be fun to play qualifiers again!” she said.

Djurgården coach Pierre Fondin leaves the club after two years. The Stockholm side thanked him for his time but says they need new thoughts and other ideas to move forward. His replacement is Magnus Pålsson, currently assistant coach for Helsingborg’s U19 boys with ten years’ experience coaching mens’ and boys’ teams.

Bri Folds, who has been on loan from BK Häcken to Danish side Fortuna Hjörring, has signed a new deal with Spanish midtable side Real Betis.

Bea Sprung, the Rosengård 16-year-old who both played her first match and scored her first goal in Damallsvenskan last weekend, has signed a three-year contract with the club.