Above: The FAW press conference announcing their female football strategy. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Association of Wales.
The Football Association of Wales released their women and girls’ strategy for 2021-2026, with a mission to create the best environment, support structures, and opportunities to accelerate the growth of women’s football, to make it reach its full potential.
Titled “Our Wales: For Her, Ein Cymru: Amdani Hi”, the six-year strategy details a vision to inspire confidence in women & girls to be their best self and can be viewed here.
Ahead of Cymru’s FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifier against Estonia at Cardiff City Stadium, the FAW shared its specific targets for women and girls’ football in Wales, which are set out to allow the game to grow faster, stronger and have a platform it deserves.
Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Association for Wales
Last month the FAW released its new vision and strategic plan, ‘Our Wales, Ein Cymru’ which maps out the path ahead for Welsh Football and detailed a clear focus to double the size of the women and girls’ game.
In recent years, the FAW has witnessed a 50% increase in participation, with now over 10,000 registered female players. Yet the FAW have set an ambitious goal to double that number and have 20,000 women and girls playing football by 2026. By ensuring every girl has the opportunity to be involved in football, the FAW look forward to working with partners across Wales to guarantee the female game has the platform to reach its potential. The FAW’s commitment to doubling the women’s game, not only includes a doubling of participation but a pledge to doubling its fan base and investment to further accelerate the growth of the women and girls’ game.
FAW Head of Women’s and Girls’ Football, Lowri Roberts said: “This is only the first half for our game, and with the increased investment and focus from the FAW, we aim to capitalise on recent growth and momentum. We strive to inspire future generations through our Cymru national team and create opportunities and environments where girls feel truly accepted in a sport that is for all.”
Above: Eliot Sayavong (14, centre) slots home the winnerfor Pride Park. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
The teams fought out an extremely close and competitive game at Moorways only two weeks ago, with Belper coming away with the points thanks to a late penalty in a 3-2 win. Therefore, another close fought and competitive game was expected.
Under a grey, overcast sky the game was played on a pitch that was soft underfoot and would cut up during the game, causing some players to have difficulty staying on their feet, particularly after a heavy rain shower mid-way through the game.
Pride Park welcomed Eliot Sayavong back after missing the last three games, as well as Rachel Weaver and Hannah Roberts who missed last week’s game against Wirksworth.
Park came flying out of the blocks from the start, winning possession from Belper’s kick-off, and building up down the right. It wasn’t clear who crossed, but the ball was switched across the Belper area and found Jess Page in space, with time to take a touch and hit a shot on target, but it was diverted away by Emma Varnam in the Belper goal.
Photo: Hannah Roberts comes away with the ball. Photo: Shaun Hardwick
It was an early warning for Belper, which was double underlined within a few seconds as Bleu Lewis-Wilson beat her defender and crossed from the left, for Summer Evans to head wide of the ‘keeper to give Pride Park the lead within a minute of kick-off.
Although Belper responded to going behind with a couple of shots, Jade Howell saving the first of these a couple of minutes after the goal and seeing another go wide after ten minutes, it was Pride Park making most of the running in the early stages. However, despite having good possession and stretching Belper’s defence at times, they defended well and the visitors only created three clear chances, none of which troubled the Belper goalkeeper.
Park were playing some really good football at this stage and were keeping Belper penned back, but a counter-attack from the hosts after 26 minutes proved the old adage that you have to score when on top, as they broke clear to equalise. It looked offside when the ball was headed on for Alice Faulding to race clear and steer the ball wide of Jade Howell. After a brief consultation between the referee and assistant – suggesting the referee had his doubts – the goal was nevertheless given; it was disappointing for Pride Park, but the officials can only give what they see and as they see it.
The goal gave Belper fresh impetus and they had the better of the second quarter of the game. It was now Park’s turn to get goal side, chase, defend and block as they now struggled to get hold of and retain the ball, although not aided by defending too deep at times, which was almost inviting the pressure. It was almost a mirror image of the first quarter of the game, though, as real chances remained at a premium and the hosts limited Belper to two shots, both off target, and made a couple of excellent blocks.
During this period, Belper won a corner on the right and the ball was delivered plum into the danger area in the centre of the goal, just on the edge of the six yards box. Jade Howell took command to come out bravely and strongly into the crowd and punch the ball clear under considerable pressure – just what was needed – and excellent goalkeeping at an important stage of the game.
Above: Jade Howell collects watched by Pride Park’s Beth Jones (2) and Belper’s Alice Faulding (9). Photo: Shaun Hardwick
Underlining how finely balanced the game was, the visitors finished the half with a chance to score, but Summer Evans’ shot was saved by the Belper ‘keeper, so at half-time, it remained all square at 1-1.
Both teams more or less cancelled each other out in the early stages of the second half, although Belper had a couple of good opportunities – both kept out again with excellent saves from Jade Howell.
At the other end, Summer Evans went close a couple of times, but as the game entered the final quarter it felt like Park stepped up a gear, and started to enjoy more possession in the Belper half, picking up second balls and pinning the hosts back. The Pride seemed to have had a lot of corners throughout the game, which with excellent deliveries from Tash Allderidge were always a threat. A series of corners was capped off with a quarter of an hour to play by another excellent delivery by Tash falling to Eliot Sayavong who steered the ball through the crowd with her left foot for her first goal for Pride Park.
Inevitably, Belper responded and saw one shot go wide and another hit the foot of the post, but otherwise Park managed the game out well for a very satisfying and welcome three points.
It was yet another extremely finely balanced and competitive game. It perhaps wasn’t quite as entertaining as the game a couple of weeks ago, being something of a battle in more challenging conditions, but was nevertheless another enthralling contest that could have gone either way.
Next Sunday the Ladies travel to Wirksworth (KO 1.30pm)
Impetus’ Ben Gilby and Kris Goman were in the Matildas post-match press conference and spoke to both Tony Gustavsson and Lydia Williams.Plus, Ben Gilby‘s round up beneath of the main events of a dramatic night.
Above: Sam Kerr pictured after putting the Matildas 2-0 up. Photo: Getty Images
Tony Gustavsson was in reflective mood after Australia were pulled back to a 2-2 draw with Brazil in Parramatta today.
Whilst the Matildas head coach spoke of his disappointment at conceding from a set-piece, he spoke of how proud he was of the way his players adapted to a half-time tactical switch involving a change in the deployment of Mary Fowler – something the team had not worked on during the build-up to the game.
Impetus’ Ben Gilby opened the press conference by asking Gustavsson about how he felt the team performed in the key areas he identified pre-game – notably as being calmer in the final third and improving the defensive transitions.
“My analyst just showed me some stats and today we actually struggled to get into the final third because Brazil were much more aggressive in their defending and we played too slow at times. In terms of our passing completion in the final third, statistically, it is not very good in this game. It was similar to the Ireland game when we gave the ball away a lot in the final third.
“But, and this is a big but, if you look at the second goal we scored, it was exactly what we have been working on. It was straight from the training ground, and the quality of that goal, and when you add that to the quality of the goal that we got when Sam (Kerr) and Steph (Catley) combined in the first game playing into EvE (Emily van Egmond), that type of combination play is what we are working on a lot.
“That’s what I mean when I say the players need to be more comfortable in the final third as we know we have the quality. We know we can be a good crossing team with Sam Kerr in the goal zone and we still want to play those when they are on, but when it is not, we need to have more variation and more quality in the final third.
“The second goal we scored when Ellie (Carpenter) did the give and go and Sam scored was world-class and we just need to do that more often.”
Brazil’s first goal on the night was from a set-piece, something which has been all too familiar to the Matildas over the past few months, but Gustavsson saw some positives at the back.
“This game tonight is a bit different for me compared to the others when it comes to defensive qualities. I’m really happy we got to play against some of the best forwards in the world and that Brazil came out with a stronger team tonight.
“There are normally a lot of goals scored in the games between us and them. As long as we score more, then I’m happy. Having said that, I do think there were some improvements on the defensive side.
“We have a really attacking outside back and we knew that Brazil were going to try and come with the counter-attack behind her to expose our center-backs, and we did a lot of work on that. They didn’t get in behind us as many times this game as they did last time. They didn’t get the one on ones with the goalkeeper tonight.
“We blocked a lot of shots in and around the box, and that’s something we’ve been working on in terms of our mind-set of defending the goal zone. It’s all about doing everything in our power to block shots. We blocked ten or 12 shots outside the box.
Above: Tony Gustavsson pictured earlier during this international window. Photo: Ben Gilby
“They didn’t have as many clear chances on goal this game compared to last game. Of course I’m disappointed that we conceded a goal from a corner. We know that set plays are very important.
“They were very good at screening Sam Kerr so she couldn’t get a free header. That is something we definitely need to keep working on.”
Gustavsson was asked about the scene after the game when he and Brazil legend Marta, a player he worked with in Swedish women’s club football spoke at length together on the pitch.
“I had the privilege of working with her for a few years in Swedish football with Tyresö and won a title with her there and went all the way to the Champions League Final. She is a world-class footballer and a world-class person.
“It was the first time that we had connected for a long time physically. We have talked to each other on the phone. It was nice to see her and connect with her. I said to her ‘Hey! You were a different team tonight! You were good, we were a bit lucky to get away there in the end because she could’ve scored.”
The conversation then turned to the rivalry between the two sides: “Wow! What fantastic entertainment! Two teams that like to challenge each other and two teams that have a really attacking mind-set towards football. When it’s 2-2, both teams were going for 3-2. No one was sitting back being conservative. It was all about our final third and their final third.
“Great entertainment. There were some nerves watching, but I love these types of football games. A tie was fair, to be honest.”
Impetus’ Kris Goman asked the Swede about bringing on substitutes on with ten minutes left with the game still in the balance.
Gustavsson responded: “It was a really important time of the game and from experience as a coach, sometimes you wait for that moment when things are already won or lost and give them a few minutes. But, if we really want to vet the depth of this roster, we need to have the confidence to throw them in during a pressure cooker. It was 2-2, going forth and back, going for a win. We needed fresh legs on the left side and Caitlin Foord was limited to a number of minutes. She actually extended the recommended minutes and I wanted fresh legs.
“The one moment that stands out for me from those players in that ten minutes is the slide tackle from Courtney Nevin. That mindset of coming in as a young player, she could have been nervous and hesitated but she didn’t hesitate a second. She used her speed and attitude with the slide tackle and won the ball.”
Asked about the role that both Kyra Cooney-Cross and Mary Fowler have in the team at the moment, The Matildas head coach said: “The classic when you have young players is to give them a few minutes on the wing, a smaller role and then grow into it. That is not what I’m about as a coach. I’m about quality of players and getting them in positions where they can do their best.
“Kyra Cooney-Cross is really, really good in the centre of the park, she can play at eight, she can play at ten or she can play at six. We are looking for depth in our defensive role at six and I think she was brilliant in the first game. This game shows that she still has some work to do at international level when it comes to playing to tempo. This is not a criticism, it’s just the natural evolution of her international career when you play against a high-tempo opponent and a pressing Brazil team, it is all fast and you need to make quick decisions. She has the technique, she has the game understanding, she has the physicality, it’s just getting used to the tempo and playing faster.
“With Clare Wheeler, she had all of the second half. She showed in this game that she did some learning from the first game. She played really fast and showed some physical presence in the second half.
“A comment on Mary Fowler. She really had to push through some physical challenges as she played in midfield. There was a lot of running and tracking with some physical battles there as well. As long as she plays in a position where she can be face up in front of the opponents’ backline, whether that’s coming inside from wide to central or playing the attacking midfield role.
“We did a tactical change at half-time and I really need to credit the players. It was a tactical change that we didn’t train on the ground. We had two minutes to do it. We put some video up with the help of an analyst and we rotated the triangle in the middle and put Mary as a ten and put EvE and Clare as two holding midfielders. That paid off big time. Credit to the players for being able to adjust and Mary was a key part of that.”
Above: Australia’s 32-year-old lynch pin Clare Polkinghorne, on the score sheet once more, was identified by Tony Gustavsson as “one of the most professional athletes that he has ever worked with” Photo: Yahoo! Sports Australia.
Referencing Clare Polkinghorne, Gustavsson said “She is one of the most professional athletes that I have ever worked with. The way she takes care of her body, the way she is focused in training, and the way she wants to get one day better every single day, whether it’s a video session, in the gym, or technically on the field, that’s the reason she performs why she does. I think she is a really good example to everyone out there who wants to extend their career that if you want it enough, and she does if you have that inner drive that she has and you can extend your career and play at this level.
“When it comes to her mindset in attacking plays she is one of a kind. She always expects the ball to come to where she is. She is looking for all the fallen fruit – when the ball drops down – she is looking for those moments and she is waiting. Her mindset and attitude is something I hope that a lot of players can copy.”
The final question came from Impetus’ Kris Goman who asked the Matildas head coach about plans for the November international window with a match still to be officially announced.
“I have to wait a little bit here. What I can say is that I personally cannot wait to get back into camp and get going again. There is going to be so much learning, especially from this last game that we can take into it.
“We need to put together as tough a schedule as possible from now until the World Cup 2023 and play top-ranked teams because we need to learn. Also, you need different kinds of teams tactically, so we get exposed to different types of tactics. We are definitely looking to play top teams as that is how we will develop going forward.”
Above: Australia goal keeper Lydia Williams, who also spoke to Impetus after the game. Photo: Sky Sports.
Also facing the media after the game was goalkeeper Lydia Williams. The Arsenal shot stopper emphasised how this second game with the South Americans was “always going to be harder. We have a new squad which is building towards the Asia Cup. It was frustrating how we let them back in.”
Impetus’ Ben Gilby then asked Williams about the growth in the team’s development over these two matches. “We have young players around and they are gaining more confidence. It’s really cool how they listen to those of us with more experience,” she said.
“We’re still building, we’re leading towards the next camp when we’ll have big preparations to come. Facing quality opposition is really important for us in terms of where we’re at. We’re not there yet, but there’s some good indicators.”
Asked about Brazil’s second goal which saw Tamires’ cross-shot come back off the bar before Debinha followed up to turn the ball over the line, the Western Australian revealed: “I was all set up for it to be a cross. It came of the top of the bar and I was waiting for it to come down when they got in. Disappointing!”
Above: It was a night full of passion in the stands once more at Parramatta. Photo: Football Australia
Australia 2-2 Brazil
By Ben Gilby
It was another harum-scarum night in Parramatta as Australia and Brazil played out a sensational match that would have had the neutral on the edge of their seat throughout.
The Matildas went ahead after eleven minutes. Steph Catley’s corner was headed clear only for Kyra Cooney-Cross to play it back into the box. Erika’s header fell to Clare Polkinghorne and the defender hit a side foot volley into the top of the net. Incredibly this was her third goal in three games for club and country.
Above: Australia celebrate Clare Polkinghorne’s goal after 11 minutes. Photo: Football Australia
Australia were then forced on the back foot by Brazil’s attacking, with the visitors aided by the Matildas coughing up possession too easily in tight spaces, but remained on top at the break.
After early chess-like maneuvers at the start of the second half, the home side doubled their lead with a superb team goal just under ten minutes in. Mary Fowler found Ellie Carpenter in the midfield. The Lyon right-back drove forward and played a 1-2 with Kyah Simon on the right-wing. Carpenter directed a ball into Sam Kerr who was positioned right of centre on the edge of the box and the Chelsea star got the ball out from under her feet and hit a great finish into the far corner. The East Fremantle born striker is now just one goal behind Tim Cahill in the all-time Australian scoring list.
Above: Sam Kerr pictured after scoring her country’s second goal on the night. Photo: Football Australia
Brazil built a head of steam once more and within ten minutes they got a goal back thanks to Erika’s header from a corner on the left.
With 18 minutes remaining they levelled the scores. Tamires’ cross shot from the left came back off the bar with Lydia Williams looking to have got a touch to it. Debinha followed up bravely with Alanna Kennedy to force the ball home, agonisingly colliding with the post as she did so.
The Brazilians had much of the remaining play, but Australia, with sub defenders Angie Beard and Courtney Nevin battling tirelessly kept the South Americans out and it finished a draw.
Ben Gilby rounds up the news from Sweden over the past fortnight.
Above: Sweden’s squad pictured during the penalty shoot-out at the Olympic Final against Canada. Photo: Getty Images
Sweden announced a 25-player squad for their forthcoming World Cup qualifying ties away to the Republic of Ireland and a friendly in Scotland on Tuesday.
The squad is largely similar to the one that opened their qualification campaign for Australia/New Zealand 2023 in September. The only changes see Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Julia Zigiotti Olme coming into the squad for Kosovare Asllani and Julia Roddar.
Thursday’s qualifier at Tallaght Stadium saw Sweden dominant but only run out 1-0 winners after a goal in the 36th minutes. Filippa Angeldahl found Stina Blackstenius on the left and the BK Häcken star cut inside and hit a shot that deflected into the net.
The Olympic silver medallists couldn’t quite get their offensive game going and therefore did not manage a second goal.
Squad: Jennifer Falk (BK Häcken), Hedvig Lindahl (Atletico Madrid), Zecira Musovic (Chelsea), Magda Eriksson (Chelsea), Jonna Andersson (Chelsea), Emma Berglund (Rosengård), Nathalie Bear (Everton), Nilla Fischer (Linköping), Hana Glas (Bayern Munich), Amanda Ilestedt (Paris St. Germain), Emma Kullberg (BK Häcken), Elin Rubensson (BK Häcken), Filippa Angeldahl (Manchester City), Anna Anvegård (Everton), Stina Blackstenius (BK Häcken), Rebecka Blomqvist (VfL Wolfsburg), Filippa Curmark (BK Häcken), Lina Hurtig (Juventus), Sofia Jakobsson (Bayern Munich), Madelen Janogy (Hammarby), Fridolina Rolfö (Barcelona), Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (BK Häcken), Olivia Schough (Rosengård), Julia Zigiotti Olme (BK Häcken).
DAMALLSVENSKAN:
Above: Rosengård celebrate their title win with Australian internationals Teagan Micah (far left) and Charli Grant (far right). Photo: Football Australia
More dropped points from BK Häcken away to AIK ended their Damallsvenskan title hopes. The 0-0 draw in front of 247 at the Solna-based side’s Skytteholms home ensured that this scoreline, plus Rosengård’s victory at Piteå guaranteed that the league title went to Rosengård with two rounds still to play.
The new champions had a real battle on their hands against the strugglers. Olivia Schough put Rosengård ahead after eight minutes, but within ten minutes Anam Imo levelled. Stefanie Sanders put the visitors back into the lead. Ten minutes into the second half, back came Piteå as Sofia Wannadahl made it 2-2. Sanders’ second strike 12 minutes from the end was the title clincher in front of 562 fans.
Above: KIF Örebro celebrate their outstanding win at Eskilstuna United. Photo: OBOS Damallsvenskan
KIF Örebro kept their hopes of a top-five spot alive after an impressive 2-1 win at Eskilstuna United, a result which dented the hosts’ hopes of a third-placed finish. Paulina Nyström gave Eskilstuna the lead but it only lasted six minutes before Sanna Kullberg levelled the scores. Örebro sealed the points five minutes into stoppage time thanks to Amanda Rantanen’s goal. The gathered crowd of 701 went home frustrated.
Kristianstads took advantage of Eskilstuna’s loss to move up to third after a 4-1 win at Djurgården in front of 1,264 fans. Anna Welin put Kristianstads ahead with nine minutes on the clock. Svendis Jonsdottir doubled their advantage just before the break. It got better still for the visitors as Eveliina Summanan made it 3-0 after 58 minutes. Sara Olai grabbed a consolation for the Stockholm-based hosts. Jutta Rantala completed the scoring a minute from the end for Kristianstads.
Above: Vittsjö celebrate their win in front of supporters. Photo: Vittsjö
Vittsjö gained a crucial three points in their pursuit of a top-four place with a 3-1 against Hammarby who have similar aspirations. Australian international Clare Polkinghorne put the home side ahead just before the half-hour mark with Tove Almqvist doubling the advantage four minutes later. Mie Jans made it 3-0 on the 57th-minute mark to the delight of the 585 spectators. June Pedersen got a late consolation for the Stockholm-based visitors.
Linköping’s poor run of form ended in some style by thrashing bottom club Växjö 5-0 at home– a result which relegated the visitors. There were an incredible four goals in just 12 minutes from the half-hour mark onwards. Yuka Momiki, Alva Selerud, Heidi Ellingsen and Uchenna Kanu were all on target. Amalie Vangsgaard completed the scoring two minutes after the break to the delight of over 800 fans.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll
TheDamallsvenkan now takes a week’s break due to international matches. It recommences on 30th October with the following fixtures:
Round Twenty-One Fixtures:
AIK v Vittsjö
Hammarby v Linköping
Kristianstads v Växjö
BK Häcken v Djurgården
KIF Örebro v Piteå
Rosengård v Eskilstuna United
ELITETTAN:
Above: Tabby Tindell (far left) celebrates with her IFK Kalmar team mates after a vital win. Photo: @ifk_kalmar
Umeå IK need just one point from their final three games to win the title. They won 2-0 at Jitex Mölndal last weekend thanks to two goals in seven minutes near the end of the first half. Alexandra Sandstrom and Henna-Riikka Honkanen on target. IFK Kalmar are within touching distance of the Damallsvenskan too after a 4-0 win at Borgeby FB – a result which relegated the home side. Amanda Persson put Kalmar ahead after 11 minutes. Minnie Asperot’s goal after 56 minutes, plus two from prolific Tabby Tindell in the final ten minutes completed the rout. IK Uppsala climbed back into the promotion spots after a vital 3-1 win over fellow challengers IK Brommapojkarna in front of a bumper home crowd of 1,013. Angelina Thoresen put the hosts ahead after just two minutes. Marika Lundin added the second in stoppage time at the end of the game. Bromma now drop out of the promotion slots into fourth, on goal difference from Uppsala. Fifth-placed Lidköpings FK hopes of a Damallsvenskan spot are just about still alive after gaining a 3-0 at Morön BK who are sixth. Elizabeth Pechersky gave Lidköpings the lead with ten minutes on the clock. Emilia Bengtsson doubled their lead just before the half hour mark. Silvia Leonessi grabbed the third in stoppage time at the end of the game.
Latest Results: IK Uppsala 3-1 IK Brommapojkarna, Jitex Mölndal 0-2 Umeå IK, Mallbackens IF Sunne 1-0 Sundsvalls DFF, Borgeby FB 0-4 IFK Kalmar, Älvsjö AIK FF 2-1 Alingsås FC United, Bollstanäs SK 2-4 IFK Norrköping, Morön BK 0-3 Lidköpings FK.
Next Fixtures (Weekend of 29th October): Umeå IK v Morön BK, Sundsvalls DFF v Jitex Mölndal, Alingsås FC United v Bollstanäs SK, Lidköpings FK v Älvsjö AIK FF, IK Brommapojkarna v Mallbackens IF Sunne, IFK Kalmar v Borgeby FB.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll
NEWS ROUND-UP:
Clare Polkinghorne and Sabrina D ‘Angelo have extended their contracts with Vittsjö for another season.
Jenna Helmstrom has signed a new deal with KIF Örebro.
BK Häcken‘s head coach Mats Gren has left the club and has been replaced by Robert Vilahamn, previously assistant. The club’s recent form has been very disappointing and has seen them lose the Damallsvenskan title race to Rosengård
Brisbane Roar announce the return of a key playerand Wellington Phoenix unveil a further nine players for their inaugural A-League Women’s squad. Ben Gilby hears from all the players and coaches. Artwork: Brisbane Roar
Roar Announce Key Return of Katrina Gorry:
Brisbane Roar great Katrina Gorry has re-signed with the Club for a tenth season, giving a huge boost for their upcoming A-League Women’s campaign.
The 78-cap Commonwealth Bank Matildas midfielder will become the third woman to achieve a decade of appearances in orange behind Clare Polkinghorne and Tameka Yallop.
Gorry has been completing preliminary strength and conditioning work in recent weeks after giving birth to her first child, daughter Harper, in August. Now, the two-time Premiership winner is ready to target a return to match action with her hometown team.
“The Roar is home for me,” Gorry said. “I love being part of the team with the supporters we have and I love calling Brisbane home. I’m excited to come back for my tenth season. It’s a different bunch of girls, which is always exciting. New people bring new personalities and new flair to the team.
“As Brisbane we always want to win. We’re here to win whatever trophy we can and set the standards high. We’ve carried that since the start and that’s part of our identity.”
On juggling football and motherhood, she said: “I’ve got myself a good baby! She sleeps really well at night, feeds really well. We’ve had a really exciting start to the journey. Being a mother has changed my perspective on a lot of things but I’m really looking forward to this season and I think it’s going to be a fun one.”
Head Coach Garrath McPherson said he was delighted to have such an experienced player come back into the group.
“It is wonderful to have Katrina back in orange for the upcoming season. We are excited to have her and Harper join the team. She will be a leader for our younger players and is a role model for the next generation coming through Brisbane Roar and the Matildas. We are excited to support her as she returns to professional football after starting her family and look forward to creating an environment that enables her to thrive.”
Phoenix Make Large Number of Player Announcements:
A-League Women newcomers Wellington Phoenix have announced a further nine players for their inaugural squad.
Chloe Knott, Grace Jale, Ava Pritchard, Grace Wisnewski, Kelli Brown, Mackenzie Barry, Saskia Vosper, Kate Taylor and Zoe McMeeken were all announced on a busy Tuesday for the New Zealand club.
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Experienced midfielders Chloe Knott and Grace Jale were the first announced. English-born Knott, 25, attended Rangitoto College and moved to the United States in 2014 at the age of 18; enjoying a successful four-year stint at Georgetown University that saw her record two goals and seven assists over the 2015 and 2016 seasons. After graduating from Georgetown she joined Durham Women FC in England to compete in the FA Women’s Championship, while also studying towards her Masters.
Knott has spent the last two seasons with the Northern Lights in the ISPS Handa Women’s Premiership, scoring seven goals as one of the league’s most dominant players.
Jale, 22, attended Auckland’s Mt Albert Grammar School, helping to lead them to a national First XI championship, and has also played for the Eastern Suburbs premier women’s team and the Bay Olympic Club Team – being named Player of the Year with the former. Jale also both attended and played at North Carolina’s prestigious Wake Forest University in in the United States. She is a current member of the NZ Football Ferns, with four caps and two goals to her name. She debuted for the New Zealand senior national team against Tonga at the 2018 OFC Women’s Nations Cup and has represented her country in the under-17 and under-20 national teams. In 2016 Jale competed in two FIFA Women’s World Cup events, the U-17 Cup in Jordan and U-20 Cup in Papua New Guinea.
Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s Head Coach, Gemma Lewis says that both players will bring a measure of experience and toughness to a young squad. “We welcome Chloe and Grace to the Phoenix squad; we know they’ll bring some quality to our side in its first year,” says Lewis.
“In addition to what these two experienced players bring to the Phoenix on the field, it’ll be their contribution off the field that’ll be just as important – helping to give our younger players, many of them new to professional football, some much-needed guidance and support throughout the season. “I know Chloe and Grace can’t wait to get started this season, it’s going to be exciting times for both Nix fans – and for everyone who is keen to see women’s football continue to thrive in New Zealand.”
Wellington Phoenix General Manager, David Dome says that as the Phoenix Women’s squad continues to take shape, so does the need for sponsors and partners to support this team in its first year.
“It’s a remarkable achievement to have built New Zealand’s first professional women’s football squad, all within this Covid landscape; but for this team to be successful we need help from the business sector,” says Dome.
“We invite businesses and organisations from both sides of the Tasman to help support us on this journey as we continue to develop this vital pathway for young women footballers.”
Lewis will join Knott, Jale and other members of the new A-League Women’s squad in Wellington this week for training, before the team flies to New South Wales, Australia to prepare for the start of the 2021/22 Season.
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
The club have also signed five players from the Future Ferns Domestic Programme (FFDP), an initiative run by New Zealand Football to bridge the gaps between domestic football and the world stage.
FFDP graduates Ava Pritchard, Grace Wisnewski, Kelli Brown, Mackenzie Barry and Saskia Vosper will all join the Phoenix squad for the 2021/22 A-League Women’s season in Australia.
Vosper, a 22-year-old defender, has been capped at both the U-17 and U-20 level. Last season Vosper played for Northern Lights in the 2020 ISPS Handa Women’s Premiership.
Barry is a member of the bronze medal winning side at the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and played alongside Vosper for Northern Lights. The 20-year-old defender has also been capped at the U-20 level.
18-year-old forward Pritchard made her senior national league debut at 15, playing three seasons at national league level for Northern Lights and has been capped at the U-17 level.
Wisnewski, a 19-year-old forward, grew up playing football and futsal for WaiBop Football. She was a member of the bronze medal winning side at the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and scored the fastest goal in the tournament’s history when she netted against Canada in the bronze medal match after 15 seconds. She was also awarded the Golden Ball for Player of the Tournament at the 2019 OFC U-19 Women’s Championship.
Brown is yet another member of the bronze medal winning side at the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and played alongside Wisnewski for WaiBop Football in the 2020 ISPS Handa Women’s Premiership. The 20-year-old forward solidified her reputation as a goal scorer after registering 13 goals against Samoa at the 2019 OFC U-19 Women’s Championship, and scoring a goal of the tournament contender at the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup against Finland.
Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s Head Coach, Gemma Lewis, says these five young players are joining the squad to continue developing their respective games.
“Ava, Grace, Kelli, Mackenzie and Saskia are welcome additions to this inaugural squad; although they’re new to the professional football space, they all have experience at national league and age group national team level,”
“We’ll work with these girls over the season to help grow their abilities and give them vital A-League experience; providing them a pathway to future success either in New Zealand or overseas – it’s exciting for them and for us.”
Lewis, who managed the FFDP programme before joining the Phoenix, says that having five players join the squad from the FFDP space is a testament to its success.
“FFDP aims to develop more professional players in the women’s football space and to strengthen the pathways within New Zealand and overseas – so having five players join the Phoenix shows that the programme is definitely working.
“Having the Phoenix Women’s side in place as another pathway means that we’re able to give more opportunities to young women who are serious about football as a career.”
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Two Canterbury United Pride teammates Kate Taylor and Zoe McMeeken were also added to the Phoenix A-League Women’s squad.
Taylor and McMeeken – both 17-year-old defenders – played for the Pride in the 2020 ISPS Handa Women’s Premiership, as the side captured its third successive championship in impressive fashion.
Wellington Phoenix Head Coach, Gemma Lewis, says that the addition of two promising youngsters in Taylor and McMeeken highlights the development aspect of this years’ squad.
“Zoe and Kate join the team as two of our youngest players, so this will be a learning year for them – and others in the squad – as they transition into the professional football space for the first time,” says Lewis.
“This will be a great experience for these girls, both on and off the field; we’re looking forward to their contribution next season – it’s a great feeling to be able to give Kiwi young players like Zoe and Kate an opportunity to grow.”
The signing of Taylor and McMeeken brings the Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s squad up to 10 players, with more announcements expected to be made in the coming days.
Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson spoke to the media today ahead of Australia’s game with Brazil tomorrow. Impetus’ Ben Gilby was in the session for us.There is also news and photos from Jada Whyman’s call up to the squad after Teagan Micah’s withdrawal through injury
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson during the press conference. Photo: Ben Gilby
It was another enlightening twenty minutes with the Matildas head coach as he spoke in detail about his thoughts about depth in the squad, what he is looking for from his players tomorrow, and his future plans.
Gustavsson spoke again about how he enjoyed the atmosphere at the first game against Brazil on Saturday. “Even outside the stadium when the bus was driving in, we felt it! We felt those vibes! The girls were saying this morning that it felt like a tournament game, that tournament mode feeling. That is a real teaser and taste of what is coming in World Cup 2023 and everyone in that stadium helped to create an atmosphere of a real, amazing football game. I love that type of environment and I saw that the players did too. They thrived under it and played good football.”
Asked about Emily van Egmond and what she brought to the team upon coming onto the pitch, the Swede said: “It was impressive that she came on in that way because she has not been training at a club since the Olympics. She has been training hard, but as an individual and that is different.
“That was one of the reasons why she started on the bench. She had a good training week with us. Coming on in the second half she got that goal and the assist as well. It’s interesting as when we play 4-3-3 and put her higher up the park at eight/ten, she can float in that area in between the opponents’ midfield and backline and have those late runs into the box that we’ve seen her score from before. In the same stadium too – thinking about that late goal in the game against China!”
Above: The Matildas head coach talking to the media today. Photo: Ben Gilby
The Matildas head coach was then asked about the balance between needing to bring in new players to try them out ahead of the Asia Cup and home World Cup, and still keeping the more experienced players getting game time.
“This is a very important area from a leadership perspective to find that balance. As a national team, you have very limited time together both for training and games. If you look at the number of games and camps we have before the World Cup, it is very limited despite the time of it being far away.
“On one hand it is about getting the team to perform well with a cohesion between a small group of players that know how to play with each other and quickly get to speed with chemistry and cohesion. On the other hand, we know we need depth and to win something in a tournament you need depth and to be able to rotate throughout that tournament and cover with injuries and suspensions.
“We need to make sure that we bridge that gap and this year we have tried to do it so that we could perform at the Olympics but, at the same time bring a lot of new players in. Either by exposing them to this training environment or to get them on the park.
“I’m really appreciative of the leadership group of this team as they understand where we need to be. There has to be an acceptance from this established group of core players that they need the shirt for minutes, but also to buy into the fact that, hey, you know what, we have players with us for 2023 so let’s bring them on even if it costs me some minutes in the game. We need to do it together.
“In terms of depth, before the Olympics I said that I had to leave some very good players out of that roster who deserved to be in the Olympics. We have tons, and I mean tons of quality in attacking midfield and forward positions, but we have, and did have before I arrived, a lack of depth in defensive positions. If you look at caps and at players who might not be in the starting line-up and the bench and you compare our defenders with our attack and midfield, you see a lot of caps and tons of experience in those attacking players, but you see less experience in-depth on the defending side.
Above: Looking to develop depth in defensive areas, the Matildas head coach. Photo: Ben Gilby
“When we have injuries (in defence) it means a lot of moving pieces, you see players moving back and forth from midfield and that lack of depth hurts in tournaments.
“If you look at the games from when I started in April to now, a lot of backline players have got exposure, both in a back four and a back three. If you look at those friendlies, there are very few games when I started with the same backline from one game to another. Again, I come back to balance – the balance between consistency and between getting new players. We are very aware of this. I have discussions with my staff all the time – do we play her? Do we start with her? We want to win the game, but not at the expense of the long-term development.”
Addressing the typically rumbustious nature of Saturday’s game, the Matildas head coach said:
“I’m glad that the game was physical because I was a bit worried after the game in Ireland where it felt like they wanted it more than us. Against Brazil, we showed up and showed what we are really about. Every game between Brazil and Australia has been a physical encounter and I think it will be tomorrow as well.
Looking ahead specifically to Tuesday’s second match with Brazil, the Swede said that “In terms of how the players have recovered from Saturday, I will know properly later today, but as of now it looks promising. We’ll take a look at training today and we always have a meeting the night before with our sports scientist and sports medicine team to look at every player from a risk versus reward and the amount of minutes that they can play. Some of the players are coming back from injuries in clubland, so we want to pay respect to the players’ long-term development. You will see a game tomorrow where there is a balance of consistency and some cohesion, but also that we vet some players.
“I do want to put the last game in perspective. Brazil rotated a lot of players in that first game. They are rebuilding. Were there some good things in our performance? Yes, but I also think there were some areas where we were vulnerable and got dispossessed in some bad areas and their transition game can really hurt us. We could have lost a couple more goals, and we’ve looked into that.
Above: The Matildas head coach is very happy to finally be in Australia almost 11 months after being appointed to the role. Photo: Ben Gilby
“I want to see a team now that steps on to the park to show that we can deliver a performance back to back and play with the same intensity, with the same energy, the same commitment and mind-set. Don’t shy away in those one v one duels. This is an important game to keep rebuilding and I want to see that mindset tomorrow. It’s really important.
“I expect both Marta and Debinha to start for Brazil. I hope they do, we need to make sure we get exposed to good quality players.”
Asked about the progress of Clare Wheeler within the squad, Gustavsson commented: “She didn’t get much game time, but the reason I brought her on was that I’ve been impressed with her in camp – both in Ireland and now. She’s taking steps every week when it comes to developing, especially with the tempo and intensity. She’s a very smart and technical player. She reads the game well and covers ground defensively well too. Her job now is to bring it up to international level when it comes to tempo and intensity and the more she is exposed to our environment, the better she can do that.”
In terms of specific developmental aspects that he is keen to see tomorrow, the Matildas head coach identified: “The final third. If you look at the passing stats, the amount of time we took our attack into the final third was really, really, really good in the last game. Really good, even compared to the best games in the Olympics. But when we got to the final third it felt like we rushed things. There are moments where we need to pick and choose when we play that final pass so that we can be a little bit more confident and establish more momentum and get more numbers into the goal zone.
“Then, the defensive transition. When we get dispossessed, how do we react to that. Brazil are going to target our centre backs and try to get in behind like they did in the last game and we need to have good positioning when we get dispossessed and a good initial reaction so we can stop that transition before it even happens. If it happens, then how do we deal with those balls in behind. Brazil have some real good pace and some real good deliveries to get in behind. We want to avoid that as much as possible.”
Gustavsson then discussed his future plans. “I want to be here in Australia and get exposure to local football. I want to meet the club coaches and the players but also all the Football Australia staff. I haven’t even been in the office yet. I can’t wait to stay here. Right now, after this camp I am going to scout some key club games and Champions League games ahead of the camp in November and after that I will stay here to meet as many people as I can. By that time the A-League Women will be up and running as well.”
Whyman Receives Call Up
Above: Jada Whyman in training today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia
Sydney FC goalkeeper Jada Whyman has been called up as an injury replacement for Teagan Micah after the FC Rosengård goalkeeper suffered an injury in the pre-match warm-up on Saturday and will be out for the second match against Brazil tomorrow.
Above: Jada Whyman in action during training. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia
After completing the protocols in accordance with the Quarantine Management Plan, Whyman entered the assembly. No stranger to the Matildas, the 22-year-old has previously earned call-ups with the senior national team and has represented Australia at U20 and U17 levels.
Remy Siemsen went to the Matildas last game in Parramatta on 9th November 2019 as a fan. On Saturday, she returned to the stadium as a player for her country and made her debut. Ben Gilby was in Siemsen’s press conference where she spoke about her incredible weekend.
Above: Remy Siemsen pictured after her debut. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia
“It was a dream come true to put on the Green and Gold. It was even more amazing to be able to do it in front of friends and family and on home soil, so I’m just grateful to have been given that opportunity. I didn’t get much sleep last night, it was like Christmas!”
Sydney FC’s Remy Siemsen has had a big 2021. A trip to the W-League Grand Final with her club when they were denied the title in heart-breaking fashion to a goal directly from a corner by Melbourne Victory’s Kyra Cooney-Cross with virtually the last kick of extra time was followed by an international call up for the game in Ireland last month before making her international debut on Saturday.
“Knowing that we are hosting a World Cup in 2023 makes it seem like it’s all come round at the right time. I just hope that I can build as a player and a person on and off the pitch.”
“The fans made it amazing, the atmosphere was electric when we stepped into the stadium. We were on the bus and saw all these fans going towards the stadium in their jerseys and I could tell within the group that we were all ecstatic. It was a really special moment for the playing group. A lot play overseas so it was nice for them to come back and see their families and put on a show for Sydney and Australia.
“We spoke about how amazing the atmosphere was and what we can now expect for the World Cup in 2023. To have that on our doorstep with fans, friends and families will be amazing. Saturday was just a small taste of that.”
Above: Remy Siemsen receives her first Matildas cap. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia
The joy of making her debut was tinged with the frustration of not being able to make physical contact with her family and friends after that game.
“It was bittersweet. When you have your debut, the first thing you want to do is hug your family and see your friends and people who have been with you on your journey. I was just grateful that we could even have fans there. It was hard, but the love was there and we all felt it. Some of the girls couldn’t have their families there because of border restrictions, so I was grateful that mine could be there.”
Siemsen is still getting used to the idea that she is a Matilda – she spoke about how it was not that long ago that she was going to watch the team as a fan.
“The girls have been nothing short of welcoming since I set foot into my first camp. They just said to relax and play my natural game. When I came on, I just wanted to make an impact and do my job the best I could for the team. I’ve looked up to them for most of my life so I’m still pinching myself that I’m here and get to play alongside. They tell me to be myself and play my authentic self.
“I was one of those girls on the other side of the fence in the past cheering on the Matildas and my favourite A-League Women’s team Sydney FC, so it was super humbling to see so many kids calling out my name after the game and wanting a photo. A lot of Manly United kids turned up, which is my junior club, proudly wearing their Manly United gear and that was really special to share my experience with those kids who are inspired to come and play for the Matildas.
“I was a fan last year, and the year before going to all the Matildas games. I went to the last game at the stadium (in Parramatta) and it was crazy to be entering the stadium as a player this time!
“It shows that if you really want something, if you really desire it, you can achieve it, and I hope that all the kids out there really enjoyed it.”
Above: A first Matildas cap for Remy Siemsen. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia
The period since the Ireland match has seen Siemsen based overseas in order to maintain a high level of fitness with the new A-League Women training period yet to begin.
“We were told after the last camp in Ireland that us Australian based players would have the opportunity to go and train with a professional club in Europe over the span between that game and this one and we jumped at that opportunity as it’s not every day that you get to taste test European football. We were so grateful to Fortuna Hjørring in Denmark. They are a great team with great hospitality. We had a great experience and it was really nice to be with Jamilla (Rankin), Kyra (Cooney-Cross), and Courtney (Nevin). We got really close really quickly sharing quite close spaces together. I’m very grateful that I could have that opportunity.”
“The transition (at Fortuna Hjørring) was a lot easier knowing we had Clare Wheeler, Angie Beard, Indiah-Paige Riley, and Alex Huynh over there and we had quite a few family dinners! I can’t speak more highly of that experience. We’re glad to be back on home soil and bring our experience of that time to here.
“My next step will be to look for an overseas move to experience another place and new gameplay. I loved my experience at Fortuna. I love being at Sydney FC but next year I am looking. It’s in the pipeline.”
Despite Saturday being a big day for her, Siemsen is focused on what is ahead later this week.
“We celebrated the win, but we know we have a job to do (on Tuesday), so we’ll be heading into that with a game plan, stick to our principles and play how we want to.”
Impetus’ Kris Goman was our representativeat Comm Bank Stadium for Australia’s first game on home soil since early 2020. She sums up the evening in words and pictures plus brings us all the news from the post-match press conferences.
Above: Clare Polkinghorne after scoring the Matildas’ opening goal. Photo: Kris Goman
The last time I saw the Matildas play at Commbank Stadium (then Bankwest Stadium) was in March 2020. It was the match against China that sent the Matildas to the top of the table in the Olympic qualifiers. The match that was originally supposed to be played in Wuhan was moved to Sydney because there was a virus running rampant. It was just weeks before the world shut down and matches were played in empty stadiums globally. It felt lucky that all the Olympic qualifiers were moved to Sydney and we got to witness games that should have been played in China.
It feels like it’s come full circle now. We’re moving to a post-Covid phase. Most people in Australia are now vaccinated, lockdown restrictions are easing and the Matildas are back in town. But post-Covid is not the same as pre-Covid and this was evident at this match. All spectators had to be fully vaccinated and vaccination certificates were examined to gain entry.
Above: Ellie Carpenter waves to the crowd. Photo: Kris Goman.
More interestingly, the players were subject to strict quarantine bubble conditions that meant they didn’t have to quarantine for 14 days. It was the only way to get them back to their clubs within the international break timeframe but came with strict conditions. It essentially means they are restricted to their hotel, their training grounds, and the match stadium and can’t interact with any locals, including their families.
Because the Australian borders have been closed since the pandemic began, all the overseas-based Matildas haven’t been home for over 18 months and haven’t seen their families in that time. And this match would be the first time for many that they could actually see their families. But they had to stay over two metres away and could not touch them. This resulted in tears at the end of the match as players waved to their families in the crowd.
Above: Sam Kerr spots a familiar face in the crowd on her return to Australian soil. Photo: Kris Goman
I won’t go into any detail about the match, as that’s already well documented, other than to say Australia beat Brazil 3-1, had the bulk of possession, celebrated Alanna Kennedy’s 100th match, and debuted Remy Siemsen and Bryleeh Henry.
One thing of note though was the crowd and in particular the Brazilian supporters. They brought the passion, they brought the songs and they brought their voices. Although they made up probably only about 10% of the crowd, they made about 70% of the noise. When Adriana scored and Marta came on, it was as loud as when Sam Kerr was introduced and when Claire Polkinghorne scored the first goal. It made the night electric.
But back to the Covid restrictions and the final thing it impacted was the post-game press conference. Because the players weren’t allowed near the media, it was held via zoom. Not that big a deal but the logistics of attending immediately after the match made it interesting. Tracey Holmes was obviously in the car park with the Brazilians who were all honking their horns. After finding a quiet spot in the stadium to listen, I was asked to move outside. Thankfully the crowds were gone by this time but tuning in from a bench outside the stadium wasn’t ideal.
Above: Caitlin Foord in the post-game press conference. Photo: Kris Goman.
Unlike normal zoom meetings, the players and coaches couldn’t see those posing the questions. Caitlin Foord was up first. Sam Lewis asked if the difficult couple of weeks and external pressure affected their performance. Foord said she felt no pressure and they just wanted to enjoy the home fans and being on home soil again. Tracey Holmes asked what changes or confidence Gustavsson has brought to the team. She said he’s got a lot of intelligence and he’s brought out the best of each player’s ability and wants the team to be able to express themselves and do what they do best. She went on to comment on Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross and said it was exciting to watch them grow and become a big part of the team. When asked the most difficult aspect of the last couple of weeks, she replied it has been hardest to be here and not see their families. They’ve been able to block out outside noise. There was a question about building to the World Cup. The year missed to Covid meant they lost a year with Tony but she feels they have plenty of time to grow and learn and it’s exciting. Did the team put healthy pressure on each other to perform? Their goals for the matches were to keep a clean sheet and win. They weren’t able to stop one goal from getting past but were excited by winning. They now want two wins and another good performance and a clean sheet.
Above: Pia Sundhage faces the media after the game. Photo: Kris Goman.
Pia Sundhage was up next and spoke about her relationship with Tony when they were coaching the USWNT together and how she gave him his first break and how it was good to see him here being successful. She said they were friends off the field but business on the field.
Above: Tamires post match. Photo: Kris Goman
I asked Brazilian captain, Tamires whether the small but very vocal Brazilian fans impacted their game. She said the support was amazing and they could hear the songs of the local Brazilian clubs being sung. She was very thankful for the support and said it was incredible.
Above: Tony Gustavsson speaks to the media in detail after the game. Photo: Kris Goman.
Tony Gustavsson was the last to be interviewed and was thoughtful and considered in all his answers. You almost don’t need to ask a leading question with Tony because he’ll elaborate anyway which is refreshing.
Speaking about his personal view on the experience of his first game in charge on Australian soil, Gustavsson said: “I could get used to this! It was a phenomenal atmosphere and the way the players played. I thank them for giving me a win for my first time on Australian soil. It was a special moment for me.”
I asked Gustavsson about how there’s been some criticism of the defence and how this squad is heavy on defenders and how the Matildas coach felt things looked today: “We had a different formation today and I said before that I want to be flexible and fluid in our formation. Identity doesn’t sit in formation, it sits in what you do. What impressed me tonight was that we had limited time to prepare with players arriving on different days. For the players to absorb everything we did double sessions and some walk-throughs. For the players to execute that game plan in such a short time was impressive.
Above: Charli Grant applauds the crowd post-match. Photo: Kris Goman
“We did look into improving our defence for the game, but not at the expense of our attacking mindset. I do think we got dispossessed in bad areas at times in the game and we could have coughed up a few goals. We were lucky, to be honest. We still have things to clean up, it was far from perfect. It’s a step in the right direction, but we still have work to do.”
He went on to talk further about the qualities of the players in the camp: “The players’ ability to take in information and execute game plans is enormous. I was disappointed in our physicality against Ireland. Tonight, the players showed that they wanted it more than Brazil. It helped that the fans carried us forward. We spoke beforehand about feeding off the energy that the crowd creates and playing the game with them. Whether that’s making a tackle and you get a response from the crowd – you bring the energy that creates into your body.
“The teams that want to compete at the highest level need to get used to performing under pressure and thriving under it – seeing pressure as a privilege is important. Everyone has been phenomenal. The prep work and the players’ response was impressive.”
Above: Kyra Cooney-Cross, who had a superb night. Photo: Kris Goman
Still in her embryonic days as an international, Kyra Cooney-Cross produced her finest performance in a Matildas shirt in the match, with some outstanding vision shown in passes from midfield out to the flanks. The Swede was impressed and highlighted the wider benefits to the team of having the Melbourne Victory teenager playing in the number six role.
“I need to build a playing style around the qualities of the team and Kyra has shown time after time in the training environment that she can cope with pressure, but also something she hasn’t got enough credit for and that’s her defensive presses. We tried her (at six) in the Ireland game and she was one of our best players. It’s also another way of getting EvE (Emily van Egmond) higher up the park. She is a natural eight or ten but has played a lot at six. She is a game-changer. She had one assist and one goal tonight. It shows when she plays higher up the park she can give us points as well.
Above: Alanna Kennedy in action on her hundredth cap. Photo: Kris Goman
Asked about Alanna Kennedy’s performance for her hundredth cap, Gustavsson cautioned against focusing too much on her loss of possession which led to Brazil’s goal. “I think she played more confident tonight than against Ireland. She showed that she can embrace that pressure. She took a big step in the right direction tonight.”
Gustavsson ended the conference by cautioning about getting too carried away with the result.
“We played a Brazil team who are rebuilding right now. They had a lot of debutants and a completely new team with Marta and Debinha on the bench. We need to balance talk about this performance. Are there things I’m happy with? Yes. But we need to stay humble and realise that we have a lot of work to do.”
Above: Mary Fowler – another superb performance. Photo: Kris Goman
AFC Wimbledon ran out comfortable winners against a hard working Walton Casuals side in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup Third Qualifying Round tie.
It was a history making afternoon as the Dons Women played their first match at the new Plough Lane stadium (see photo at top of page by Ben Gilby) in front of a vocal crowd of over 1,500.
Above: The two sides line up prior to kick-off. Walton Casuals on the left, AFC Wimbledon on the right. Photo: Ben Gilby
AFC Wimbledon played their confident passing style from the start, aided by the outstanding surface. Within two minutes they were ahead thanks to a goal from Kelly Highman.
The South London side were dominant, but Casuals were defending with a high line which caught the hosts offside at regular intervals. With seventeen minutes played, Megan Stow played in Ashlee Hincks, who had a hugely influential afternoon, but the finish went over the bar.
The chances continued to come three minutes from the break:
Just five minutes later though, Wimbledon doubled their lead. Rebecca Carter showed searing pace to break through the midfield before advancing into the area to confidently slot home.
With a little over half hour on the clock, Dons went 3-0 up when referee Lucy Clark saw a handball in the box, and Hincks stepped up to smash the spot kick home.
Above: AFC Wimbledon goalkeeper Lauren Allen makes a save. Photo: Ben Gilby
Walton Casuals finished the half with a flurry of opportunities. First, with 35 minutes gone when Brooke Garcia’s thumping drive went narrowly over, and then just before the break Jodie Barker got a goal back for the Surrey side.
The second half took a while to get into its groove. Rosie Russell was looking impressive for the Dons down the right. Emily Oliver had the first real chance of the second 45 when her effort went narrowly wide of the far post.
Walton had a chance when a free kick went narrowly wide:
Ben Gilby heard from Caitlin Foord, Alanna Kennedy and Clare Polkinghorne plus debutants Bryleeh Henry and Remy Siemsen.
Above: The Australia team that started against Brazil yesterday in Parramatta. Photo: Football Australia.
Western Sydney Wanderers’ Bryleeh Henry, who came on for her debut in her home region was extremely emotional to be wearing the Matildas shirt.
“I’m going to cry! I don’t think it’s sunk in yet, it’s a dream come true. It means the world and to do it in front of my family is just an absolute honour. I was hoping (to get on the pitch) but wasn’t expecting it at all. Mel (Andreatta) called me over and started talking about set-pieces and my mind started spinning! I needed to calm down and play my football. I was happy with my form.”
Alanna Kennedy made her hundredth appearance in the game and spoke of her pride.
Above: Then and now – Alanna Kennedy made her hundredth appearance for Australia last night. Photo: Football Australia.
“It meant so much to finally be back and to have my hundredth cap in front of home fans. I’m happy with than and proud of the girls performance. My family are such a big part of me getting to a hundred appearances. I’ve just seen them for the first time in 15 months. I love them to pieces.”
Talking about the physicality of the match, she said: “I’ve had enough knocks in my career to recover from those. It’s the type of game you always get against Brazil and we always show up for that.”
Caitlin Foord spoke in detail after the game. “I don’t think there was pressure (on us), I just wanted to go into the game and enjoy it, being on home soil with home fans. That’s what got us through today. The buzz from the fans and the turn out.
Above: The Matildas come together to celebrate. Photo: Football Australia.
“Our rotation in midfield was good. We have a good understanding in order to move and make space. It was working.”
She outlined the influence that Tony Gustavsson has brought to the team since coming in as head coach. “He’s brought his knowledge. He is very intelligent, you can see that and we’ve all learned so much from him already. The most important thing is that he’s brought out the best of everyone’s ability. How we play is to bring out the best of every single player. He wants us all to express ourselves and do what we do best – giving us the freedom to play.”
Above: Young star Mary Fowler, who impressed Caitlin Foord. Photo: Football Australia.
The Arsenal star spoke glowingly about the performances and potential of teenagers Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross.
“It’s exciting to see them grow the last couple of years to where they are now. They have deserved what they have done. Mary came out big today and scored – that’s what she can do, and Kyra getting on the ball and dictating. We keep encouraging them. We want them to be comfortable on the ball and express themselves. We are encouraging them a lot.”
Asked about how team have progressed since the 2019 World Cup, Foord was positive. “We’ve missed a year due to Covid and so not long with Tony. We have so much time together to grow and that’s exciting.”
Foord also highlighted the mixed emotions about finally being back on Australian soil after 20 months away. “The hardest thing is not being able to see our families (still). It’s been so long for all of us, so we just wanted to come here and put on a great show. We want to block out the outside noise as we’re here for this team and that’s what we continue to do. We didn’t want to go away with a loss. We also wanted a clean sheet, we didn’t get that. We’re disappointed that we conceded. We want two wins (from these games with Brazil)”.
Clare Polkinghorne, whose goal put Australia ahead spoke of her joy about playing in front of a home crowd again: “It was a great turn out, we had amazing support. To put on a performance like that and score three goals is really pleasing.
Above: Kyah Simon and Sam Kerr celebrate. Photo: Football Australia
“For my goal, it all happened so quickly. It came from a set piece that we’ve been working on. Sam (Kerr) did well to win the first ball and I’m there to pick up the second ball and luckily it went in.”
“Tuesday’s game will be another tough contest. We’ll recover properly and look at the video of things we need to improve and go again.”
Above: Debutants Remy Siemsen (left) and Bryleeh Henry. Photo: Football Australia.
Another debutant was Sydney FC’s Remy Siemsen. She spoke emotionally after the game about the feeling of winning her first cap.
“I’ve been dreaming of this moment. I’m overwhelmed. It’s a complete dream come true for me. You can tell by my emotions how much this means to me. To do it in front of friends and family in my home town is so special.
“I consider myself so privileged to don the green and gold alongside some of the best players in the world. It will be a night I remember forever.
“I didn’t know I was coming on. It was a nice surprise! I quickly had to absorb all the information before coming on. I wanted to make an impact in some way or form. The girls were so encouraging and made me so welcome. They helped me out!”
Above: Matildas players show their joy after the match. Photo: Football Australia
Impetus’ Kris Goman participated in the post match press conference with Tony Gustavsson – her take on what was said will be on the site later today.
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