Above: The PSG team line-up before the start of a match which virtually assured they will end Olympique Lyonnais’ dominance at the top of D1 Arkema. Photo: @PSG_Feminines
Olympique Lyonnais’ domination of D1 Arkema is over after Paris St. Germain earned a point to ensure that they will win the championship for the first time in their history by beating mid table Dijon this coming Friday night.
Lyon had to win to realistically retain their D1 title for a fifteenth successive year, but the 0-0 score line against their closest rivals means that they now need a miracle for that to happen.
PSG went into the match having won their last eighteen consecutive games in Arkema D1. Their last defeat came back in November 2019. They also had the confidence in having defeated Lyon in both the earlier league encounter and the Champions League Quarter-Finals which ended OL’s run of five consecutive titles in Europe’s top competition.
Whilst Lyon’s season has not hit the heights that they have become accustomed to, they went into the game on the back of 51 games unbeaten at home in D1.
Both sides were missing a key player at kick-off as Eugenie Le Sommer failed a late fitness test for OL with Marie-Antoinette Katoto missing with a thigh injury for PSG. In the positive side of the ledger for the Parisians, Kadidatou Diani was back for the first time since April after injury.
Above: OL keeper Sarah Bouhaddi denies Kadidatou Diani. Photo: Damien LG via @OLfeminin
The first opportunity went PSG’s way after five minutes when Sandy Baltimore got free down the left and put in a dangerous cross which Sarah Bouhaddi got a palm to but could not prevent the ball falling for Diani, but the OL keeper recovered well to get back in time to grab the resulting shot.
For the vast majority of the first half, PSG were more than happy for Lyon to have the ball and attack. It appeared to be the right move as it allowed the Parisians to ensure they had more than enough personnel to largely nullify the impact of Ellie Carpenter, Delphine Cascarino and Sakina Karchaoui. Therefore, Christiane Endler, linked with a move to OL in the summer, had very little to do in the PSG goal.
Both sides were also keen to establish themselves as the physically dominant team. One such example came when Kadeisha Buchanan put in a thumping tackle which saw Baltimore fall awkwardly on her side, taking down her head coach Olivier Echouafni in the process.
Shortly afterwards, Carpenter saved her team in a defensive position by sprinting in to fill a gap and charge down a shot from former Chelsea star Ramona Bachmann.
Above: Ellie Carpenter made an important block on Ramona Bachmann’s shot. Photo: Damien LG via @OLfeminin
All of PSG’s chances were coming down the left with Baltimore using her pace to break through at will and fire dangerous crosses into the box. Despite her ability to push forward, Lyon’s defence, marshalled as ever by the talismanic Wendy Renard were able to mop up before Bachmann, Bruun and Dabritz could take advantage.
With eight minutes to the break, Bouhaddi denied Signe Bruun from close range as Paris broke from the left of centre once more.
Karchaoui had a great chance shortly afterwards when, from a break through the middle, the ball ended in her path, but her fierce effort was just over the bar as it remained goalless at the break.
Just after the hour mark, Bruun missed a golden opportunity for PSG. The Dane found herself in front of goal with no-one rushing towards her to close her down, but she put her shot agonisingly wide of the left hand post when it anything on target would likely have resulted in a goal.
The vast majority of the offensive pressure was now with the Parisians who knew that a victory would clinch the D1 title with a week to spare.
Ultimately, despite the plethora of talented attacking players on the pitch, it was the defenders who were on top.
Above: Sandy Baltimore, who had a magnificent game down the left for Paris St. Germain. Photo: @PSG_Feminines
Olympique Lyonnais’ inability to win a game that they absolutely had to serves to emphasise the changing of the guard in French women’s football this season. In the past, somehow, they would have found a way to earn the result they needed.
PSG’s ability to nullify Lyon’s attacking threats was the key to the victory. In doing so, they will end up being the first team other than Olympique Lyonnais to win the top tier of French women’s football since FCF Juvisy’s title success in 2006.
Perth Glory has further strengthened its squad for the Westfield W-League 2021/22 season with over five months to go until the campaign kicks off with three more key signings over the past week.
Versatile forward Demi Koulizakis has arrived from Canberra United along with 18 year-old Young Matilda star Alana Jancevski from Melbourne Victory plus defender Deborah-Ann De La Harpe who was an impressive in a difficult 2020/21 campaign for the West Australians.
Above: Perth Glory unveil Demi Koulizakis as a key part of their squad for 2021/22. Photo: Perth Glory FC.
Koulizakis’ arrival is another eye catching one. The 23-year-old has made more than 20 W-League appearances for Western Sydney Wanderers and most recently, Canberra United, with whom she spent the 2020/21 campaign.
She also boasts extensive experience of playing overseas having represented Texas Tech University in the US for four years.
After enjoying her second taste of the W-League last term, Koulizakis is keen to become a part of what she believes is an exciting project taking shape here in the West.
“I’ve known Alex Epakis (Glory Head Coach) for many years now, so I know how he is as a coach,” she said.
“I like his aspirations for the team and for the club which align with my own goals as a player and he gets the best out of me, so those were the main reasons for me wanting to sign.
“Alex’s goals are to get into the Semi-Finals and win a Championship and I would love to play a big part in that and potentially next season be in the Finals.”
Epakis, meanwhile, believes that Koulizakis has all the qualities required to be a major asset for Glory in the upcoming campaign.
“Demi is a fantastic addition to the team and the club,” he said.
“She is relatively young, but comes with vast experience across both the W-League and US College system with Texas Tech.
“Having made her W-League debut at 16, Demi has gone on to have success both locally and in America, enjoyed a strong season last year at her previous W-League club and comes to Perth looking to really establish herself as core player within our attack.
“She is a very strong and tenacious player with and without the ball and has a great ability to build up and play with her back to goal, plus strong finishing skills.
“I have had the pleasure of working with Demi in the past and I know first-hand the determination and commitment she brings to a playing group.
“She is ambitious and I am glad she has decided that Perth Glory is the best place for her to continue to grow as a player.”
Glory CEO Tony Pignata is delighted to see another high-quality new recruit coming on board.
“Demi has a lot of potential and a great working relationship with Alex and I believe we’ll see her take her game to new heights in purple next season,” he said.
“She is another key signing and I’m sure the excitement is building among our Members and fans as our 2021/22 squad continues to take shape.”
Above: Alana Jancevski’s arrival is an exciting one for Perth Glory fans. Photo: Perth Glory FC.
The arrival of Alana Jancevski from Melbourne Victory will mean that yet another of Australia’s youngest stars will be wearing the purple and orange next season.
Widely regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in the country, the 18-year-old is a Young Matildas representative and has come in on a long term deal.
Having opted to make the move to the West ahead of the Westfield W-League 2021/22 Season, Jancevski cannot wait to get started.
“Since I was a youngster, I’ve always wanted to play in the W-League,” she said, “and Alex Epakis (Glory Head Coach) has been amazing in helping me to get that opportunity.
“I’m excited for the challenge and to be joining an excellent group of girls who work really hard and want to be successful.
“Being a part of that will be a great opportunity for me and I’m looking forward to showing everybody how good a team we can be.
“I know that I’m going to grow as a footballer and as a person.”
Epakis, meanwhile, is confident that Jancevski has what it takes to make a major impact in purple in the coming years.
“I am really excited to have Alana at Perth Glory for the next few seasons,” he said.
“She is a very exciting player who has a lot of attacking qualities and will certainly help add some firepower to our attacking play.
“I believe Alana has the quality and confidence to really excel as a player and help the team reach new heights.
“She is a hungry and determined character with a fantastic level of confidence and professionalism about her and I am proud she has chosen Perth Glory as the best club for her development and growth.”
Glory CEO Tony Pignata believes that securing Jancevski’s services reinforces Glory’s growing reputation as the destination club for young Australian talent.
“Alex showed last season that he is committed to giving young players an opportunity at W-League level,” he said, “and Alana is another rising star that I’m sure our Members and fans will be hugely excited about seeing in Glory colours next year.
“She has huge potential and we’re confident that she will fulfil that with us in the coming seasons.”
Above: Deborah-Ann De La Harpe put in a number of excellent performances in a tough season for Perth last season, so her re-signing is a major plus. Photo: Perth Glory FC
The final part of the signing trio this week saw the news that Deborah-Anne de la Harpe has re-signed with the club for the.
The 20-year-old enjoyed an impressive debut W-League campaign last year, starting every one of Glory’s 12 games and playing a total of 1026 minutes.
Her strong defensive work, turn of pace and willingness to push forward in wide areas made her an instant hit with the club’s fans and the Junior and Young Matildas representative is relishing the prospect of rekindling that relationship next term.
“There was a core group that would come out and support us every home game,” she said.
“Obviously it was a difficult season for us with COVID and things like that, but having their support, especially in my first season, was just incredible.
“I could not have pictured a better place or team to have been a part of for my first W-League season.
“It’s such a great environment, the coaching staff are amazing and I’m elated to be back again.
“I’m just so grateful that I get to be a part of this story and I think we have something really special in this team, especially with the core group of younger players coming through.
“I’m excited about what we can achieve both in the long-term future and in the season ahead.”
Glory Head Coach Alex Epakis is confident that de la Harpe can build on her breakout performances in 2020/21 and be a key part of the squad once again.
“Having DA re-sign on again for next season is fantastic,” he said.
“She was given an opportunity last season and I believe she grew so much and showed all her football pedigree and why she has been an important player for the Australia youth teams in recent years.
“She has a fantastic attitude and mind-set towards improving and doing the best she can, has really fallen in love with the club and the city and I know first-hand that she is committed to helping achieve success with the team.
“For a young player, DA shows so much confidence and I am really looking forward to seeing her develop and find another level in her football next season.
“Her versatility and ability to play in multiple positions is a huge asset and she will be a valued player within the team next season.”
Glory CEO Tony Pignata, meanwhile, is pleased to see another quality performer being added to the club’s W-League squad.
“DA was a standout last year and retaining her services for the upcoming season is another indication of the positive direction we’re moving in,” he said.
“Alex has been extremely proactive and nimble in his efforts to mould a young, dynamic and exciting squad and de la Harpe is a player who certainly ticks all those boxes and more.”
Ben Gilby writes for Beyond90, Australia’s leading independent women’s football platform. Visit https://beyond90.com.au/
@DandalBs brings us his weekly wrap of all the goings on in the Swedish women’s football scene with news from the national team camp, round six of the Damallsvenskan and Elitettan plus the latest transfer speculation.
NATIONAL TEAM NEWS:
Norwegian coronavirus travel restrictions might prevent the Sweden v Norway friendly taking place on 10th June. It will have no impact on Sweden’s home game with Australia.
Above: Nilla Fischer, who has just ruled herself out of Sweden’s Olympic squad. Photo: World Football.
Sweden and Linköping’s veteran defender Nilla Fischer has announced that she is not available to be selected for her country’s Olympic squad. She and her wife are expecting their second child in July. “It would have been fun to play at another Olympic Games, but this is more important” said Fischer.
She added that this does not necessarily mean that she has played her last national team match. Fischer’s absence from the Olympic team means that both she and Linda Sembrant, who were key central defensive players for Sweden in the 2019 World Cup will be missing from the squad for Tokyo.
DAMALLSVENSKAN:
Hammarby took the honours in the Stockholm derby with a 3-2 win over Djurgården. Madelen Janogy gave Hammarby the lead on seven minutes, but less than a minute later, Elizabeth Addo grabbed a dramatic equaliser. Just after the break, Emma Jansson put Hammarby back ahead but Hayley Dowd levelled matters. With eight minutes left, Jansson struck her second to seal the points.
Above: BK Häcken celebrate a goal in their 3-0 win over Eskilstuna United. Photo: Fotbollskanalen.
BK Häcken repeated their recent victory over Eskilstuna United with a 3-0 success in the Damallsvenskan. Jojanna Rytting Kaneryd’s strike and two own goals were the difference. If the defeat was not bad enough for Eskilstuna, their key midfielder Halimatu Ayinde was stretchered off the pitch 10 minutes into the 2nd half with worrying looking knee injury. Häcken also suffered injury concerns when their international forward Pauline Hammarlund suffered a knee injury which has now been confirmed as an ACL tear.
Örebro demolished Växjö 4-1 and the game was realistically all over just after the half hour mark as goals from Jenna Hellstrom and Karin Lundin (2) set the home side on their way. Emmi Alanen’s effort with twenty five minutes to go was wiped out when Dessislava Dupuy grabbed Örebro’s fourth.
AIK won another unexpected point when they gained an impressive 1-1 draw at Kristianstad Amanda Edgren put the home side ahead with Nora Rönnfors levelling within three minutes. Good goalkeeping from Milla-Maj Majasaari played a big role for AIK in earning a point.
Above: Rosengård celebrate Caroline Seger’s strike which won the game against Piteå. Photo: Fotbollskanalen,
Rosengård recorded their sixth win in six games this season with a 1-0 success over Piteå. Caroline Seger scored the only goal. Good goalkeeping from Piteå’s Guro Pettersen, including saving a penalty-kick, kept the score down. Rosengård are now five points clear of second placed BK Häcken.
Finally, Linköping drew 0-0 with Vittsjö.
Table from: Svensk Fotboll.
Round Seven Fixtures:
Växjö v Linköping
AIK v Rosengård
Hammarby v Kristianstads
Eskilstuna United v Vittsjö
Piteå v Djurgården
Örebro v BK Häcken
ELITETTAN
Photo: Henne-Riikka Honkanen, who scored two goals for Umeå in their stunning 4-0 win over IK Uppsala in the top of the table Elitettan clash. Photo: Bildbyrån
The battle of the top two produced a quite incredible outcome. Second placed Umeå IK pulled off a stunning 4-0 thrashing of IK Uppsala. Umeå were on the front foot from the very start and Pink Herreros Ossorio put them ahead after just three minutes. The home side’s dominance was further asserted when Henna-Riikka Honkanen made it 2-0 20 minutes later. Just after the break, the Finnish striker grabbed her second with Olivia Holm completing the rout with 23 minutes to go. The result puts Umeå top of the table on goal difference. Equally delighted by the result were Älvsjö AIK FF whose 1-0 win over IFK Norrköping meant that they are now only a single point behind the top two. The side from just outside Stockholm, who only avoided relegation from the Elitettan on the final day of last season have made a glorious start. Victoria Heikfolk scored their winner directly from a corner with 69 minutes played. Near the bottom, Borgeby FK put in a great effort in their game with Alingsås FC United in their bid to win their first match of the season. Tilde Olsson gave Borgeby an early lead before three rapid fire goals in six minutes from Olivia Sultan, Alma Öberg and Felicia De Feo put Alingsås in the driving seat. Taylor Townsend and another from Sultan made it 5-1 – but then Borgeby mounted a comeback as Rebecka Persson and Nova Karlsson both scored in less than sixty seconds of each other. With a quarter of an hour left, things got dramatic before Alingsås ended up 5-3 winners.
Round Six Results: Mallbackens IF Sunne 0-0 IFK Kalmar, Umeå IK 4-0 IK Uppsala, Älvsjö AIK FF 1-0 IFK Norrköping, Borgeby FK 3-5 Alingsås FC United, IF Brommapojkarna 1-1 Lidköpings FK, Jitex Mölndal 2-1 Bollstanäs SK, Morön BK 3-0 Sundsvalls DFF.
Round Seven Fixtures: Lidköpings FK v Jitex Mölndal, Mallbackens IF Sunne v Umeå IK, Sundsvalls DFF v Älvsjö AIK FF, Bollstanäs SK v Alingsås FC United, IK Uppsala v Borgeby FK, IFK Norrköping v Morön BK, IFK Kalmar v IF Brommapojkarna.
Table from: Svensk Fotboll
NEWS ROUND-UP:
Above: Kosovare Asllani has been liked with a move to Juventus this week. Photo: Martin Rose/Getty Images.
There are unconfirmed reports that Kosovare Asllani’s agent Arash Bayat is in Italy to negotiate personal terms with Juventus. Bayat comments that “it’s yet too early to make any comments.”
A couple of weeks ago we reported that Barclays FA Womens’ Super League side Everton had been linked with Rosengård’s young national team players Hanna Bennison, Nathalie Björn and Anna Anvegård. There are now unconfirmed reports that Manchester City are also showing interest in some of the trio. Rosengård boss Therese Sjögran doesn’t want to comment as long as there are no bids. It could be noted that none of these players have made more than minor contributions to Rosengård’s successful season opening. Björn and Anvegård, just coming back from injury, have only had a few minutes of action and Bennison is a regular second half substitute.
In the latest of our #DubWrap series reviewing the 2020/21 Westfield W-League season, Ben Gilby chatted to Brisbane Roar head coach Jake Goodship about his footballing career and how he views the club’s W-League season.
Above: Brisbane Roar head coach Jake Goodship who was largely happy with his team’s season. Photo: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images.
It’s been a long journey for Jake Goodship from Hertfordshire, part of London’s commuter belt, to Queensland via New Jersey.
He takes up the story. “My football story began when I was a 14 year old who was picked up by Stevenage FC (who play in the fourth tier of the English game) and I went on to play for their youth team and system under Robbie O’Keefe and Darren Sarll. This is when I found a passion for love for coaching. I was very lucky and fortunate to have been under some top, top coaches during this period such as Dave Reddington, David Bass and Malcolm Allen.
“Looking back, being within this environment has helped shaped and assist me with the style, beliefs and values that I hold as a coach today. When I was 18 and unfortunately released by Stevenage, I passed my UEFA B licence and went on to coach at the club academy program prior to moving overseas in New Jersey, working for a private academy. Although it was not a great experience, I’m forever grateful as it was here that I learned the hard yards and ability to work back to back sessions daily. Within the six months or so must have delivered 1,000 sessions!”
“Then, in 2009 I made the decision to come to Australia and Brisbane specifically to take up a role at Brisbane City FC. While at this prestigious club I held roles from head youth coach to academy director and responsibilities from overseeing club staff and player development and recruitment. As part of this I played a big role within the establishment of their successful academy program.”
“I was lucky enough to be brought to Brisbane Roar by Drew Sherman, the then technical director at the club. He is someone who I highly regard as one of the best coach leaders/academy directors around. At first I turned down the opportunity but after a number of discussions with Drew and other staff at the time it was an opportunity too good to turn down both a professional sense and due to the fact that a change from my previous club was well due. Having the chance to be surrounded by football personal such as Craig Moore, John Aloisi, Jason Kearton, Ross Aloisi and Danny Tiatto was a fantastic experience within my first couple of seasons. Then more lately with Robbie Fowler and Tony Grant, another two top coaches who set good positive foundations are the club.”
“I have now been at Brisbane Roar for four seasons – two of which has been with the club’s W-League side as head coach and two with the club’s Youth team (NYL/NPL) and there was also one year within the club’s academy program. I am now currently studying for my FFA / AFC Pro licence Diploma.”
Jake then tried to compare his experiences living and coaching in England with those in Brisbane.
“Here in Australia there is a huge difference compared to what things were like back in the UK. Simply due to cultural differences. This country is like paradise with the weather and environment. It’s safe for families and children. Whereas England’s love for the game of football speaks for itself, it’s within day to day life – such as all the coverage in newspapers, social media and the main news.”
Above: Jake on the touchline during Brisbane Roar’s semi-final against Melbourne Victory. Photo: @JakeGoodship.
“I believe this plays a huge role within the lack of culture here, thus leading to perception of football not being seen as a professional career as such and more so of a hobby. The exciting prospect of football in Australia for future years is endless. There is huge potential to become a powerhouse but only if resources and facilities are backed by media platforms on a daily basis to assist with the public perception.”
We then turned our attention to this season, starting with the impact of coronavirus on the preparations for the campaign.
“Covid was a nightmare in terms of planning,” Jake admitted. Everything was unknown and needed the ability to deal with setbacks, changes at the last minute and having the ability to be positive with circumstances and decisions being sprung on us at any time. We had players having to quarantine upon arrival, having to be Covid tested after each away fixture as well as self-isolating and needing to get exemptions to train. The group were great in dealing with this and any last minute changes which helped build trust and togetherness in a way. We were lucky and blessed to have chance to play out the season with crowds.”
Roar started the season with four consecutive draws, which was an incredible statistic.
“Yeah, our first four games we actually played really well,” said Jake. We created a number of chances and our number of progressive passes were much higher than each opposition and the general possession stats were in our favour.”
“However, we lacked the clinical edge to finish off chances and were not ruthless enough. I suppose having the confidence to continue to play our way and create chances was a good outlook, however with the internal goals and targets we had, we were frustrated with a points tally of four from the first 12.”
“Looking back we built a really good performance platform from these games and went on a good run of unbeaten games. This, if anything helped our group move forward as it was then fine tuning the small details within our training sessions,” Jake admitted.
I asked Jake for his overarching view on his team’s regular season performances. “I was very happy with the regular season apart from two games – Newcastle Jets and Canberra United away.”
Above: Jamilla Rankin (right) a youngster who had a fantastic season for the Roar. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
“However off the top of my head we led the stats in shots/chances created plus possession dominated, corners won, progressive passes and balls won in front third, so I think the stats tell a great story.”
“We over achieved in my opinion, as generally speaking on average the club is the third most successful in the W-League’s short history so second or first would be seen as a positive season.”
We then spoke more specifically about some of the Roar’s stand out players for the campaign, starting with youngsters Jamilla Rankin and Wini Heatley.
“They both had positive seasons, however as happens with young players, they perhaps lacked consistency at times. Both suit full back roles with us very well. They are very aggressive in and out of possession, they’re technically efficient and both are top, top athletes.”
“I would like to think they both have a good future ahead if they continue to work hard and stay grounded. Another young player, Leticia McKenna also fitted in well this season in my opinion and is another young player with exciting future ahead of her.”
Emily Gielnik came back to Brisbane and produced a series of superb performances. “Em is the ultimate professional in terms of off field self-management and her mannerisms within our training and game environment. She’s forever wanting to improve and beat all the goals she is set. Her ambitious mind-set is very infectious. I’m grateful to Em for the opportunity to have her part of our squad as we were consistency pushing boundaries and finding ways to improve our processes both as a group and individuals and ultimately we become better coaches and players as a result of this.”
We then moved on to discuss the impact of Emily Gielnik and Clare Polkinghorne moving to Sweden before the Finals campaign.
“I think any team losing Polks and Em would feel the impact. However we were confident the in group we had and also made a good signing in terms of bringing in Sunny Franco to lift our environment from a social aspect as well as overall.”
Above: Emily Gielnik – a great season in front of goal. Photo: Brisbane Roar.
“I think looking back at the semi against a good Melbourne Victory group who kept seven or eight clean sheets this season, we scored two goals on the night, there were two goals questionably called offside, one ghost goal… so in theory scoring five against them without both players speaks volumes. Unfortunately the officials in my opinion didn’t help but that’s no excuse. Victory were very good.”
“I was happy with our performance and our ability to deal with setbacks, as mentioned above, scoring two with two ruled out and one not given, that’s an incredible feat. Plus we conceded two in second half stoppage time, so it blew out. But our players did very well to deal with setbacks given to us and showed a good bounce back ability to keep going. We will be better for the experience of that game and look to build upon it for future seasons.”
I asked Jake if there is anything the W-League could do to try and ensure clubs were not losing key players at the sharp end of the season going forward.
“I think the transfer windows affected W-League this season due to its delayed start. But moving forward, if the W-League were to be a longer season, then something needs to change. I think selling players is a good business model, like we have done past two seasons, however clubs need to view players as assets and provide longer contracts to ensure both player and club security. The W-League could be one of the top five women’s leagues in the world, but decision makers need to be bold and proactive. I would like to see more teams and a full home and away season implemented ASAP.”
We now looked ahead to the future of the club, starting with potential recruitment.
“Our recruitment process is forever on going. We’re always looking at players and using our formula to compare and see which player best fits in to our system. Rather than simply signing a player because she’s good, they need to fit in to our culture, environment and share same values and vision in how we approach the game.”
As well as recruitment, Brisbane will be very keen to retain their exciting youngsters. This is something Jake doesn’t see any problem with achieving.
“We are very confident in retaining our young players as well as perhaps enticing a few more to come across. We need to have that confidence in our environment and how we go about things on a daily basis. We need to have that confidence and do the best job we can for the player and then there will be no reason for them wanting to leave, unless it’s for a bigger league overseas or for more money as our budget is low and doesn’t compare with the likes of the Sydney and Melbourne based teams.
Finally, I asked Jake if he has made any goals for the team for next season already. “Yes. We need to continue to build upon the previous two seasons and continue to break our own goals and targets as well as making sure we continue to be exciting to watch. Additionally, we need to support and assist players to push boundaries and if winning trophies is a by-product of that then fantastic. However in short, we want to be a team that the community can be proud of.”
Ben Gilby writes for Beyond90, Australia’s leading independent women’s football platform. Visit https://beyond90.com.au/
Look out for another #DubWrap feature with W-League Players looking back at their season soon!
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Ben Gilby spoke to FC Rosengård Sporting Director Therese Sjögran, who is Sweden’s most capped international footballer about the club’s Champions League campaign and aims for the 2021 Damallsvenskan campaign.
Above: FC Rosengård’s Sporting Director Therese Sjögran – a major name in Swedish women’s football. Photo: Wikipedia.
FC Rosengård have a long and distinguished history as Therese explains.
“The club were formed in 1970 as Malmö FF Dam and remained under that name until 2007 when they became LdB FC Malmö. A final change came in 2013 when we became FC Rosengård. In the 50 or so years we have been playing, we have spent 35 in the top division. In that time we have won the top tier 11 times and finished as runners-up on a further 13 occasions.”
“Other than Covid, where it’s been tough as it has been for clubs all over the world, I think we have had a couple of good years. 2019 we won the league and 2020/2021 we played in the Champions League again, which is very important for the club.”
I asked Therese how particularly Covid had hit FC Rosengård. “We have lost a lot of money due to no people being allowed at our games. Additionally, sponsors have withdrawn their support. We really hope 2021 will be better and I think it will be when everyone gets the vaccine.”
On the positive side of the ledger in recent weeks, the club reached the Quarter-Finals of the Champions League, going down to Bayern Munich. I wondered how Therese reviewed their European experience this season.
“We are always disappointed when we lose, but we lost to a very good Bayern Munich. I think they haven’t lost in 25 games, so they played with a lot of self-confidence. But I’m proud of the team, we fought well and now we also know what we have to work on to be the best in Sweden and continue our progress.”
Above: Action from FC Rosengård’s Champions League Quarter-Final with Bayern Munich earlier this year. Photo: Reuters.
Whilst Sweden is not able to match the financial efforts of leagues such as England, Therese is still positive about how the Damallsvenskan clubs that do qualify for Europe can continue to compete towards the final stages of the competition.
“We still have a great culture in football in Sweden. Even though we can’t pay the highest salaries, we still have the environment to produce great players. We need to invest in our youth and I’m sure that we can compete at European level.
Looking to the new season, Therese outlined their recruitment plans for 2021 and specifically what made them so determined to bring in Charli Grant from Adelaide United.
“We lost a lot of players for this season but I think we brought in more quality. Our latest signing, Charlotte Grant, is very interesting. A young player with great physique who is very loyal to the game plan, so I think we have a better team this year.”
The standard of the team that FC Rosengård have put together is reflected in their aims for the new campaign. “We want to win everything we compete in,” explained Therese, “so being the number one club in Sweden is our goal. It won’t be easy though, the quality of the Damallsvenskan this season is better. There are more teams that have proven themselves to be able to beat the top teams. There is no easy game anymore, so if we want to win, we need to perform every game.”
Overnight, the Westfield W-League was able to announce a significant new TV deal which should significantly lift the access to matches in Australia along with an improvement in quality of footage broadcast.
The five-year, ground-breaking agreement which commences next season will give Australian football the greatest reach, it has ever had.
10 Bold will be the new home of the Westfield W-League, with a match broadcast live every Sunday of the league. All free-to-air matches will also be simulcast on 10 Play.
And, in a football first, A-League and Westfield W-League games will be available on Paramount+ which launches on Wednesday, 11 August for $8.99 (£4.93), with football fans and Club members given a special deal to access all games.
Beverley McGarvey, Chief Content Officer and Executive Vice President, ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Australian Professional Leagues to become the new home of football for both the A-League and Westfield W-League, giving all Australians access to more football than ever before.
“As part of this landmark media rights partnership, all the action, excitement and fierce competition of the A-League and Westfield W-League will be broadcast on Network 10 and Paramount+.
“Ensuring broad reach on free-to-air, as well as extensive access on Paramount+, we are committed to showcasing the sport in innovative ways and exposing it to a plethora of programming opportunities across all our platforms, including those of our parent company ViacomCBS.”
Australian Professional Leagues (APL) Chairman, Paul Lederer, said: “Less than six months ago we pledged to create value for the whole ecosystem of Australian football, and this deal is the first step in our delivering on that promise.
“This agreement with one of the world’s biggest content providers, is exactly the kind of significant and vital milestone we have always believed was possible – and that we intend to continue achieving.”
One of the key tenets of the deal is the ability to deliver and promote top-level football to every household in Australia, as APL moves quickly to realise its planned growth, predicated on its newly secured independence.
The new deal marks the conclusion of the A-League and Westfield W-League’s 15-year partnership with Fox Sports.
Ben Gilby writes for Beyond90, Australia’s leading independent women’s football platform. Visit https://beyond90.com.au/
Impetus’ coverage of Australian Women’s Football is supported by The Chicken Salt Co. They are offering every Impetus reader 5% off all orders of Chicken Salt from their website. Go to https://www.chickensalt.co.uk/?mate=impetus and place your order – 5% will automatically be taken off of the cost. The coupon code is impetus.
Jean-Pierre Thiesset rounds up all the actions from Week Twenty-One of the D1 Arkema, French women’s football’s top flight.
Above: Signy Bruun – scorer of two goals in a comfortable win for PSG to keep them top of D1 Arkema. Photo: LTA Agency
Le Havre won 1-0 at home against Paris FC. Le Havre’s goal scorer was Francisca Alejandra Lara Lara (34). In a game with nothing really riding on the outcome, Le Havre keep alive hopes to avoid finishing bottom.
Dijon, at home, won 2-1 against Guingamp. The goals for Dijon came from Léa Khelifi (6 and 11) and the goal for Guingamp was from Sarah Cambot (16).
Montpellier won 2-1 at home against Soyaux. Elisa De Almeida (52 and 55) grabbed both of Montpellier’s goals with Laura Bourgouin (63) finding the net for Soyaux. After this victory, Montpellier regain fifth place in the table, but they still are only two points ahead of Guingamp and their place is not secured yet.
Fleury won at home against Issy 3-1. Goals for Fleury from Léa Le Garrec (14), Dominika Grabowska (74) and Julie Piga (86) and Issy’s strike came from Batcheba Louis (50). With this defeat, Issy will not be able to finish better than at the eleventh place.
Paris Saint Germain won 4-0 away from home against Reims. Goals for Paris SG from Signe Bruun (19 and 44), Sandy Baltimore (43) and Perle Moroni (90+5 penalty). PSG put in an impressive performance which never game Reims a chance.
Olympique Lyonnais won away from home against Bordeaux 1-0. Goal for Lyon from Eugénie Le Sommer (9). Another difficult win for Lyon who can still hope to win the title if they beat Paris SG on May 30.
@Dandals brings us our weekly wrap of all the news in the Swedish women’s game. This week, there’s news from the national camp, the latest round-up of action from the Damallsvenskan and Elitettan plus transfer news.With additional reporting by Ben Gilby.
Above: Jonna Andersson and Caitlin Foord tussle for possession when Sweden last met Australia at the 2017 Algarve Cup. Photo: Football Australia.
Sweden have announced a friendly against Australia in June at Kalmar’s Guldfågeln Arena on 15th June, writes Ben Gilby. The match will have added interest after the two nations were drawn together in the same group for the Olympics which will take place around three weeks later. Additionally, the new Matildas head coach is Tony Gustavsson, a big name in Swedish women’s football.
Speaking about the news, Sweden’s head coach Peter Gerhardsson said: “We have been in long-running dialogue with Australia about this match for a long time and even before the Olympic group stage was drawn, it was largely clear that we would be playing each other in June. Australia are a very good opposition to face at this stage of our build-up to the Olympics and after the draw we both continued to agree to play the match in Kalmar. Now it feels good that it is formally ready.”
Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson placed real importance on the friendly: “Since learning of our opponents for the games, we quickly shifted our attention to ensuring that we were best equipped for the matches ahead. We had lots of insights from our games in April against Germany and the Netherlands. Ranked fifth in the world, in Sweden, we will have another top team that will challenge us with a different style and tactical set-up.”
The two sides last met at the 2017 Algarve Cup when Sweden claimed a 1-0 win thanks to a goal from Charlotta Schelin.
Juventus reports that national team defender Linda Sembrant suffered a knee injury in training at the end of last week. She has suffered damage to her cruciate ligament and meniscus which requires surgery. The national team doctor Houman Ebrahimi has been in touch with Juventus medical team and has confirmed that she will not be available for the Olympics.
DAMALLSVENSKAN:
Above: Clara Markstedt – on target for Vittsjö GIK in their win over AIK. Photo: Vittsjö Svenskaleg
Vittsjö GIK were dominant against AIK and earned a 4-0 win the process. Clara Markstedt put them ahead on 24 minutes and added a second just before half-time. In between an own goal pushed out the lead to 3-0. Australian international Emily Gielnik completed the rout with a quarter of an hour left.
Above: Olivia Schough’s goal was the difference for Rosengård in their win over Växjö . Photo: Rosengård FC
Rosengård made it five wins from five to stay top after a 1-0 win over Växjö thanks to an early goal from Olivia Schough.
Above: Wilma Öhman was on target for Örebro in their win over Piteå. Photo: laget.se
Piteå suffered a double blow in their game against Örebro. First, they lost 2-0 after goals from Wilma Öhman and an own goal. If this wasn’t bad enough, they also lost star forward Anam Imo on 65 minutes with a foot injury.
Above: Another goal from Stina Blackstenius as BK Häcken saw off Djurgården. Photo: BK Häcken
BK Häcken returned to winning ways after what eventually turned into a comfortable 4-1 win over Djurgården. Sara Olai gave the Stockholm based side the lead before Häcken hit back on the hour mark with a strike from Pauline Hammarlund. Julia Zigioti Olme then put Häcken just two minutes later before two further goals in the last nine minutes from Stina Blackstenius, who was involved in all her teams’ goals, completed the rout.
Above: Vaily Barsley, whose late strike sealed a draw for Eskilstuna United against Hammarby. Photo: @vailab23.
EskilstunaUnited and Hammarby played out a 1-1 draw. Emilia Larsson put Hammarby ahead after just 15 minutes and looked to have ensured the Stockholm side the win. However, four minutes into stoppage time at the end of the second half, a header from Vaila Barsley earned a point for Eskilstuna.
Above: Kristianstad celebrate Jutte Rantala’s equaliser against Linköping. Photo: fotballskanalen.se
Linköping were held to a 1-1 draw by injury hit Kristianstad. Linköping were on top for much of the game and took the lead after 38 minutes thanks to Frida Maanum. Jutte Rantala levelled on 55 minutes.
Table from: svenskfotboll.se
Round Six Fixtures:
Hammarby v Djurgården
BK Häcken v Eskilstuna United
KIF Örebro v Växjö
Kristianstad v AIK
Linköping v Vittsjö GIK
Rosengård v Piteå IF
ELITETTAN:
Above: Agnes Nyborg, scorer of two goals for IK Uppsala who are now clear at the top of the Elitettan. Photo: UNT.
IK Uppsala moved three points clear at the top with a 3-1 win over Mallbackens IF Sunne despite going a goal behind to Svea Renberg’s strike. Agnes Nyborg (2) and Beata Olsson hit back for Uppsala. Umeå IK lost further ground in second after only being able to draw 1-1 against an Alingsås FC United side who are just above the drop zone. The top two meet each other this weekend in what will be a huge clash. We’ll have extended coverage of the game in next week’s Swedish Scene. Älvsjö AIK FF remain third, four points behind Uppsala after a 0-0 draw with mid table IFK Kalmar. At the bottom, Bollstanäs SK earned their first win of the season, 4-2 against winless Borgeby FK.
Round Five Fixtures: IFK Norrköping 1-1 IF Brommapojkarna, Alingsås FC United 0-0 Umeå IK, IFK Kalmar 0-0 Älvsjö AIK FF,IK Uppsala 3-1 Mallbackens IF Sunne, Morön BK 2-1 Jitex Mölndal, Sundsvalls DFF 0-1 Lidköpings FK, Bollstanäs SK 4-2 Borgeby FK.
Round Six Fixtures: Mallbackens IF Sunne v IFK Kalmar, Umeå IK v IK Uppsala, Älvsjö AIK FF v IFK Norrköping, Borgeby FK v Alingsås FC United, IF Brommapojkarna v Lidköpings FK, Jitex Mölndal v Bollstanäs SK, Morön BK v Sundsvalls DFF.
Table from: svenskfotboll.se
NEWS ROUND-UP:
National team forward Fridolina Rolfö who is presently at VfL Wolfsburg, has been linked by French sporting newspaper L´Equipe to be an imminent signing for Olympique Lyonnais.
Above: Rosengård’s Nathalie Björn and Hanna Bennison who have both been linked with a move to Everton. Photo: fotbollskanalen.se
FAWSL side Everton are supposed to have shown interest in Rosengård players Nathalie Björn (24) and Hanna Bennison (18). Rosengård’s Sporting Director Therese Sjögran says the club has no received any bids for the players, who are both under contract.
BK Häcken has signed a co-operation deal with Elitettan club Lidköping FK, making it possible to loan players between the clubs. First to benefit from the arrangement is Häcken’s 19 year-old forward Evelyn Ijeh.
Above: Natalie Tobin pictured in her new colours after signing for Perth Glory. Photo: Paul Kane/Getty Images
After their frustrating 2019/20 campaign, W-League side Perth Glory have announced two major signings in the past week.
First was the hugely exciting arrival of Natalie Tobin from Sydney FC. The 24-year-old, who can also play in midfield, became a key part of the Harbour City side’s squad after debuting in 2012, eventually chalking up more than 60 appearances in total and starting every game as the Sky Blues took out the Premiership title last season.
The former Australia Under-17 and Under-20 representative, who was also a part of two Grand Final-winning Sydney FC squads in 2013 and 2019, is relishing the prospect of starting a new chapter of her career in the West.
“It’s a really exciting opportunity to play for what has been a very successful team over the years with the likes of Sam Kerr and so on,” she said.
“Head coach Alex Epakis has given me a lot of information on the vision that he has for the team going forward and it all sounds very promising.
“The club went through a bit of a transitional phase last year, a growing phase and I’ve been a part of those in the past not just at Sydney FC, but at NPL clubs as well.
“So I think that’s always something exciting to be a part of and you can come together that way which is awesome.
“Alex has a great vision for the team culture in particular and a very positive outlook towards the season which further cemented my move over to Perth.
“I’m looking to have a really successful season, solidify a starting eleven spot which I was able to do at Sydney FC last year, grow as a footballer and help the team push for Finals, Premierships and Championships.”
Glory Head Coach Alex Epakis, meanwhile, believes that signing a player of Tobin’s experience and pedigree represents a major coup for the club.
“We’re delighted to have Nat sign on for next season and represent Perth Glory,” he said.
“She is a well-established and respected player within the W-League competition and I am excited to coach her next season.
“Nat brings so many qualities as both a player and as a leader.
“Her experience and on-field quality will prove to be a key part of helping the team and group move in a positive direction.
“She perfectly fits the type of player we are looking to have within the club and is a determined character and strong competitor who knows how to win.”
Glory CEO Tony Pignata is similarly delighted that Tobin will be wearing purple next season.
“I worked with Nat during my time at Sydney FC and can certainly vouch for Alex’s assessment of her as both a player and as a character,” he said.
“We are determined to build a strong, competitive squad to take the club forward in the W-League in 2021/22 and have already taken major strides towards that by re-signing a number of key players and now securing the services of a proven performer in Nat.”
The magnitude of this signing for the Western Australian club has been emphasised by the outpouring of sadness in New South Wales at their star defender’s departure.
Above: Morgan Aquino pictured in action for Perth Glory during her previous spell at the club in 2019/20. Photo: The West Australian.
In addition to the arrival of Tobin, the club have also announced that highly-rated young goalkeeper Morgan Aquino has rejoined Glory on a long-term deal.
The Junior and Young Matildas representative made her Westfield W-League debut for Perth in the 2019/20 season and played on another two occasions for her hometown club before completing a move to Brisbane Roar.
Having added a further four W-League starts to her tally with the Queenslanders last season, the 19-year-old is thrilled to now be embarking upon a new chapter in her career amidst familiar surroundings.
“I’m very keen to be a part of what Alex Epakis is building at Glory,” she said, “especially as his vision is not just for this season, but for the future beyond that as well.
“He’s been giving young players opportunities and putting a lot of faith in them and that is exciting to see.
“Coming home for me was a no-brainer as the opportunity to play and be with family too is great to have.”
Epakis, meanwhile, believes that Aquino has huge potential which she can fulfil with Glory.
“Securing the services of Morgan back from Brisbane is a great addition to the club in a key position,” he said.
“She is a proud West Australian, is passionate about the club and wants to do well.
“My job is to get the best out of her over the next few seasons and help her really grow into her undoubted talent and ability.
“Morgan is a very technical goalkeeper and will certainly suit the way in which we will want to play.
“She is driven and determined and I am happy that she believes this is the best club to help her grow as a person and as a player.”
Aquino joins and Natalie Tobin in pledging her future to Glory and club CEO Tony Pignata feels that the timing of these signings, plus the earlier announcements that Natasha Rigby, Hana Lowry and Tijan McKenna have all committed for another season illustrates the club’s determination to make a major impact in the W-League next season.
“We are committed to having as much of our squad in place as soon as possible in order to lay solid foundations for the 2021/22 campaign,” he said.
“The signings that we have already made are very exciting ones and with plenty more to come, I’m sure that our Members and fans are really looking forward to seeing the women in action next season.”
The club have indicated that further Westfield W-League signings are expected to be announced in the near future.
Above: A triumphant FC Barcelona lift the UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy after a stunning 4-0 win over Chelsea. Photo: @UWCL
Barcelona produced one of the greatest performances of any women’s club team in totally dismantling Chelsea to win their first Champions League title.
Chelsea boss Emma Hayes showed recognition of the threat posed by her team’s Catalan opponents by swapping Jess Carter and Niamh Charles’ backline positions around in a bid to counter the threat of Barcelona’s threat down the wings from Lieke Martens and Caroline Graham Hansen.
Whilst Spain might not quite have broken through to the top level in international women’s football as yet, it seems to be merely a matter of time. Of Barcelona’s squad of 25 players, 20 are Spanish and nine came through their own club academy. The bulk of these players know each other inside out playing together for both club and country; something which is a big part of the club’s success and Spain’s emerging status in Europe.
This is a squad of players who average 60% of possession across their domestic league games and scored 128 goals in a 26 game campaign. Only five club sides in Spain scored a single goal against them all year – Granadilla, Levante, Real Madrid, Real Sociedad and Deportivo la Coruna. In doing so, Barca won the league by 16 points from nearest challengers Levante who they humiliated 7-1 in a league clash.
The threat facing Chelsea up front was not just Spain’s all-time leading scorer Jenni Hermoso, but eight other players scored more than seven goals with Alexia Putellas notably adding 16 with the other hot shots including Asisat Oshoala (15), Lieke Martens (11), Aitana Bonmati (nine), Caroline Graham Hansen (eight), Bruna Vilamala (eight), Mariona Caldentey (eight) and Marta Torrejon (seven).
Also of pre-match interest was the Chelsea star Pernille Harder facing off against former VfL Wolfsburg team-mate, the Norwegian superstar Caroline Graham Hansen creating a further 12 goals to the eight she’s scored all season. Additionally there was the battle for the competition’s Golden Boot with Chelsea’s Fran Kirby tying with Jenni Hermoso with six goals.
The threat that Barcelona pose on the wings was emphasised from the kick off with Martens dancing down the left and firing in a shot which crashed off of the bar and came back immediately to Hansen on the right. Her first time ball in wasn’t quite dealt with in the air by Magda Eriksson and a shot deflected off of Melanie Leupolz and into the net
Above: Alexia Putellas celebrates after dispatching a penalty to put Barcelona 2-0 up. Photo: Getty Images
Going into the game a common thread of thinking was that Barcelona would not be able to cope with the quality of Chelsea’s attack because they would have not faced such quality since their 4-1 defeat to Olympique Lyonnais in the 2019 Champions League Final.
What had been missed or glossed over pre-match was the fact that such has been Chelsea’s dominance in England this season – even against the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal – they were not used to facing a side with the relentless pace and threat of this Barcelona team who possess so many world class attackers not just centrally but out wide too. The FAWSL top sides in attack are far more ponderous than this incredible Catalan side.
What these two schools of thoughts did guarantee now that they seemed to be colliding in front of our very eyes were the fact that an attacking classic could be consequence. That attacking classic turned out to be more one sided that anyone expected. In fact, it was a first half masterclass par excellence.
Whilst Barcelona kept both Ji and Kirby quiet all night long, Kerr and Harder were in evidence with the Dane having two excellent chances – first from a Carter ball across the box which she got a toe to just outside the six yard box and then on 9 minutes when Leupolz found Kerr. The Australian played a glorious back heel to Harder who was denied by a superb tackle from Marta Torrejon.
Despite Carter moving sides at the back in a bid to combat Graham Hansen, it clearly wasn’t working. With 12 minutes played, the Norwegian star escaped her with ease and rolled a ball across towards Hermoso who went down under a tackle from Leupolz. The penalty was given somewhat harshly and Putellas dispatched it comfortably.
The dazzling footwork of Barcelona saw Chelsea floundering at the back with 21 minutes gone. The pressure and split runs from the Catalans’ offensive five left the Blues struggling to pick out who to close down and how to do it. Carter was caught badly again in the centre with Hermoso running through which allowed Aitana Bonmati to dispatch with ease.
With ten minutes of the half left, the wide players took Chelsea apart again. A long ball out to Martens on the left saw her get past Charles as if she wasn’t there and play a low pass through Millie Bright’s legs which Hansen was able to touch home comfortably for four.
Above: Caroline Graham Hansen and Lieke Martens celebrate the Norwegian’s goal which made it 4-0. Photo: Getty Images.
The set-up of the Barcelona midfield and attack simply enabled them to pick out their passes and keep the ball moving rapidly. Mentally, Chelsea never recovered from going behind so early. It was perhaps the downside of their domestic dominance in England.
Last week I wrote that Chelsea don’t have the strength in depth defensively that they can boast in offensive positions. This final emphasised that.
Chelsea’s first choice back four is good enough in the FAWSL. With them, Chelsea win against the top teams and dominate them. Winning is a habit, but when you come up against top quality who are totally ruthless, switch the play in ways you haven’t faced before and move with such pace, then it’s a shock and you get exposed.
Chelsea aren’t used to coping with a team attacking them so relentlessly. And it showed.
Above: Chelsea’s Pernille Harder, who had several chances to score, suffered Champions League Final heartbreak for the third time. Photo: PA Media.
Barcelona suffered a four goal humiliation in their first Champions League Final. The aim now for Chelsea is to come back from a similar thumping to claim European club football’s greatest prize in the future.
1st Rd – Pomurje (SLOVENIA) (4-0/4-2), 2nd Rd Fortuna Hjørring (DEN) (4-0/5-0), QF Manchester City (ENG) (3-0, 1-2), SF Paris St. Germain (FRA) (1-1, 2-1).
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