Stormy skies and postponed fixtures couldn’t stop Round 15 of the NPL Women’s NSW competition from delivering serious drama.
The Match of the Round saw Gladesville Ravens and APIA Leichhardt play out a six-goal epic, while NWS Spirit’s Skye Halmarick continues her Golden Boot charge with another standout performance. Here’s your full wrap.
Gladesville Ravens 3–3 APIA Leichhardt
Match of the Round – Christie Park
A storm delay, a missed penalty, six goals and end-to-end chaos — Sunday evening’s clash between Gladesville and APIA had it all.
After a one-hour delay due to lightning, Morgan Roberts opened the scoring in the 26th minute following a clever through ball from Miku Sunaga and smart build-up play from Ng Saad. APIA hit back right on half-time when Ash Crofts’ looping header struck the post and Sophie Hoban pounced to tap in the equaliser.
APIA started the second half strong and won a penalty after Hoban was brought down, but Crofts’ low attempt was well read and saved by Tahlia Coleman. That moment swung momentum in Gladesville’s favour — Galic smashed home a brilliant top-corner strike before Ng Saad calmly added a third just a minute later.
Still, APIA weren’t done. Mona Walker powered in a header from a corner, and Charlotte Lancaster made it 3-3 in the 79th after a low cross from Crofts. Gladesville came closest to a winner in stoppage time, but Sophie Magus stood tall to deny Bella Edwards and Lexie Moreno in the dying moments.
Bulls FC Academy 4–0 UNSW
Northbridge Oval
Bulls FC Academy extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a dominant showing over UNSW.
Arna Hogarth-Scott broke the deadlock in the 30th minute with a clean strike through traffic. In the second half, Avaani Prakash intercepted a wayward pass from Sarah Langman and found Jynaya Dos Santos, who curled in a superb finish to double the lead.
Elizabeth Grey added a third just minutes later with a tidy poacher’s goal, and Daniella Naeimi finished a sharp counterattack with confidence to round out the 4-0 scoreline.
Despite the strong result, Bulls received tough news midweek — talented midfielder Indiana Dos Santos will miss the rest of the season after tearing her ACL in Future Matildas training.
Manly United 3–1 Macarthur Rams
Cromer Park
Manly United continued their climb up the table with a strong performance at home. Tegan Biasi opened the scoring with a stunning strike into the top corner, before Emily Minett converted an improvised acrobatic finish off a corner to make it 2-0 inside 20 minutes.
India Breier pulled one back early in the second half, punishing a loose pass from Manly’s goalkeeper with a composed chip. A lightning delay paused the match in the 75th minute, but Manly came out composed. Right after the restart, Sienna Dale broke away on a counterattack and finished clinically to restore the two-goal cushion.
NWS Spirit 5–0 Newcastle Jets
Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility
NWS Spirit put on a dominant attacking display, comfortably sweeping aside the Jets in Lake Macquarie.
Skye Halmarick continued her outstanding season, scoring twice — her first a close-range finish after a Kayla Osborn assist, and her second a classy solo effort to wrap things up. The 17-year-old now leads the Golden Boot race with 18 goals in 15 games.
Osborn also helped force an own goal, while Mikaela Gavranic scored directly from a corner, and Sophie Harding added a long-range rocket in one of Spirit’s most complete performances of the season.
Mt Druitt Town Rangers 4–0 Illawarra Stingrays
Macedonia Park
Mt Druitt made a statement at the top of the table with a commanding win over fellow contenders Illawarra Stingrays.
Roukayah Al Fararjeh opened the scoring with a blistering counterattack, and an own goal from a corner made it 2-0 before the break. In the second half, Adelaide Wyrzynski’s volley was redirected into the net by Keiko Tanaka, before Ena Harada capped things off in stoppage time after pressing high and finishing well.
It was a clinical and physical performance from the Rangers, who now reclaim top spot heading into the final third of the season.
Sydney Olympic 3–0 Western Sydney Wanderers
Belmore Sports Ground
Sydney Olympic extended their winning streak to four games with a composed performance against the Wanderers.
Tiana Fuller set the tone early, creating space for herself with a smart cut inside before firing home the opener. Olympic controlled large spells of the match and were eventually rewarded with two second-half goals from Aideen Keane — one a composed finish from open play, the other coming after sharp buildup from Maxine Peak.
Olympic are now one of the form sides in the league and continue to build momentum as the finals approach.
Sydney University vs Northern Tigers – Postponed
This match was postponed due to poor weather and will be rescheduled.
Above: Switzerland’s national side. Photo: Swiss Community.
The hosts of a major tournament always have the eyes of the world on them. After failing to make it out of the group stages at Euro 2022 and a disappointing Nations League run, Switzerland are up against it heading into this year’s European Championships.
They are hoping to make their fans proud, and the pressure to make it out of the group will be more intense than in previous years. This will be the third time Switzerland are going to compete in the Euros – having qualified in 2017, 2022, and automatically qualifying as hosts this year.
Squad:
The 35-strong training camp selection has been hampered due to the ACL injury to Romona Bachmann who is unavailable for selection. The list below will shortly be reduced to the final 23.
Above: Swiss national coach Pia Sundhage, pictured during her time in charge of Brazil. Photo: Sound at Heart.
In January 2024, legendary ex-player and Swedish coach Pia Sundhage took on one of the most difficult jobs of her career. From winning Olympic Gold with the USWNT twice and a Silver Olympic medal with Sweden, she now takes on the challenge of a side who are struggling with identity.
Since her first game in charge, she has led Switzerland to four wins, three draws, and six defeats. Within those games, they have earned a 1-1 draw with Australia and a 2-1 win over France. These are the games that will fill the Switzerland fans with confidence ahead of the summer. Overall, Sundhage’s tenure has led to some spectacular displays and some jaw-dropping score lines alongside some heavy losses.
Since her appointment, her main mission has been to develop the younger members of the team, giving them valuable minutes ahead of their first senior tournament. A successful example of this would be Naomi Luyet, who broke into the senior team and was slowly solidifying her place when she suffered a cruciate ligament tear. Switzerland and Sundhage will be hoping the young winger will return for the summer tournament, as she may be influential in their success.
Euros History:
In the two previous Euros that Switzerland have qualified for (2017 and 2022), they have failed to make it out of the group stages. They will be hoping that the home crowd will buoy them to a strong group finish and an inaugural knockout appearance.
How they qualified:
As hosts for the tournament, Switzerland qualified automatically.
Strengths:
This is a team that has experience and quality in the midfield. With Arsenal star Lia Wälti controlling this aspect of the play, the team are confident on the ball and are constantly looking to play forwards.
In other positions, Launa Buhler has consistently proven to be solid at the back alongside Noelle Maritz and Ana-Marie Crnogorcevic, who can also play up front. From their talent and their ability to read the game and constantly adapt, they will be vital to Switzerland’s hopes of success.
Switzerland has depth in the front line, although the loss of Bachmann to an ACL injury is huge. The team though so boast teen superstar Sydney Schertenleib, who has an eye for goal.
Development Areas:
The one main issue for Switzerland this summer could be further injuries to the starting 11. If key players such as Wälti or Crnogorcevic join Bachman on the sidelines, the team will be left with significantly less experience in tournament football.
The second development area for Switzerland links to the first area of improvement. The lack of experienced squad depth, for many of their players, this will be the first or second major tournament they will be taking part in. This might prove to be Switzerland’s downfall.
Key Players:
Above: Switzerland captain and Arsenal star Lia Wälti. Photo: Swissnatiwomen.
Lia Wälti – Switzerland’s captain, Arsenal star, and a midfield maestro. Her talent, vision, and abilty is truly something else. Calm and composed in possession and calculated in her defensive movement, she is vital in Switzerland’s build-up play. Wälti can successfully receive the ball under pressure, make quick decisions, and open up play for others.
Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic is another player with the potential to be influential. Adaptable, she can play on the wing or at right back. With impressive pace, she is technically strong and has a tendency to score headers from crosses into the box.
One to watch:
Naomi Luyet will be the one to watch this tournament. She has recently returned following an ACL injury, and the young midfielder has speed on her side. She is young with a lack of experience, however, her vision of the game and ability to play a key role in the transition will make her an important asset.
Success would be:
Reaching the knockout stages for the first time. In a group with Norway, Finland, and Iceland, this is possible. Norway will be their biggest threat. If the Swiss can win their game against Finland and get a result against Iceland, then a first-ever quarter-final is likely.
Predictions:
Switzerland have a once in a lifetime opportunity on their hands with a pretty favourable group draw. As the host nation, they will also have their country on their side, and the last two Euros have been won by the hosts. Whilst a win is likely out of reach for the Swiss, they should be able to make it out of the group, barring major injury to key players.
Above:Abbey Green (right), who added to her goal tally for the season in Fremantle City’s 13-0 win against UWA-Nedlands on Saturday. Photo: Celina Lyons.
Balcatta Etna 1-0 Perth SC
Balcatta produced a superb display across the park to become the first side this season to defeat Perth SC in the NPLW WA.
Due to a postponement earlier in the season, this was the first time that these two sides had faced each other in 2025. It was a high-quality game that showcased an excellent tactical battle, resulting in an impressive win for the home side, thanks to Lucy Jerram’s goal after 56 minutes that capped off a superb personal performance by the striker.
Balcatta had the better of the first half. From the earliest exchanges, it was apparent they would be pushing up hard and fast whenever Perth were in possession, particularly targeting the Azzurri’s playing out from the back. This rapid press earned the hosts a lot of turnover ball, forcing throw-ins and corners, which made it challenging for the visitors to break out of their own half.
Lucy Jerram and Frankie Murray were particularly instrumental in creating for Balcatta along the left. As the half wore on, Izzy Foletta’s control and ball-playing skills also became more influential.
The hosts forced three openings in the final quarter hour of the half. With 32 minutes played, from a free-kick inside their own half, Foletta fed Jerram, who in turn found Murray on the left. Her pass across for Abbey Meakins resulted in a shot that Tijan McKenna cleared off the line.
Four minutes later, Foletta started another move down the left when the Perth Glory A-League Women defender found Jerram once more, and the attacker’s shot was pushed across goal by Dayle Schroeder.
Above: Dayle Schroeder making a spectacular save earlier this season – the Perth SC goalkeeper was in good form at Home Group Stadium yesterday. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Then, just before the break, more high pressing by Balcatta saw them win possession on the right, which saw Jamie-Lee Gale hit a shot that Schroeder repelled strongly.
The second period was more even, and the first opportunity fell the way of the visitors six minutes in when McKenna’s drive forward ended with a long-range shot from a central position that Bennett held.
Then, with 56 minutes on the clock, the hosts hit the front. Ella Marwick took up possession in the middle of the field and fed Jerram, who advanced dangerously on the left again and drove a shot in from the edge of the box on that flank past Schroeder.
Perth responded well and played a patient passing game into space that delivered them more opportunities and territory, but whilst the build-up was successful, they weren’t quite able to force Bennett into making saves.
Balcatta had two further chances to increase their lead in the final 10 minutes. First, Meakins combined with Jamie-Lee Gale, who put a cross in for Jerram, but her effort was over the top. Then Gale herself was denied by a superb diving save by Schroeder after she drove up the right.
Then, two minutes into stoppage time, the Azzurri had a chance to take a point. Lincoln, on the left edge of the box, showed great strength and control to hold off a defender and then sent a shot curling towards the top right corner of the net, only for Bennett to produce a superb flying save to push it over the top.
Above: Leyna Wood (centre), who scored two goals in a minute in second-half stoppage time in action for Fremantle City against UWA-Nedlands yesterday. Photo: Celena Lyons.
Fremantle City’s winless run of four games came to an end in some style as they recorded a big win over UWA-Nedlands in the club’s annual Pride game.
Although chances looked equal for the opening 25 minutes, Abbey Green put the early seal on what turned out to be a dominant Fremantle City lead. Despite a box controlled by a quick tempo and plenty of action, Green was able to make an outstanding two-touch cross to volley the ball into the back of the net.
Equitable possession continued until the 27th minute when Fremantle City threatened. A spaced defence and misjudged run off her line from UWA goalkeeper Madison Large, saw the second Fremantle goal achieved in a very nonchalant manner. The ball rolled across the goal line, and on the record as an own goal from Ginger Cain.
In mere minutes before halftime, Fremantle seized unremarkable control, netting three goals in four minutes. Sophie Meaden ignited the trifecta with a clean run down the last third of the left flank to seamlessly convert.
Erin Siah closely followed suit, tapping a cross from Leyna Wood from the left wing into the right corner of the goal. And just to round off the half, Annabelle Leek converted a corner, cementing an astonishing 5-0 lead before the halftime whistle.
Fremantle took no time reintroducing themselves after the break, Green beautifully exploiting space, was able to take the port city side to 6-0 at just 46 minutes. Still hungry for goals, Green was able to push the ball up her favourable half of the field and catch Large off her line. The visiting defenders slowed down momentum, but the former A-League Women star got a touch just before overtaking the goalkeeper to maintain the onside position. Fremantle now 7-0 up.
Siah secured Fremantle yet another goal by converting a cross from the wing. Although the goal was allowed on this occasion, the maintenance of the onside position can be questioned.
Yet another Freo corner was converted at 66 minutes. Tatem Spencer was able to kick the ball behind her shoulder and into the goal. In rapid succession, substitute Mikayla Lyons’ cross from the left wing secured the dominant 10-0 lead.
Just when we thought Green’s day at the office was drawing to a close, the number 15 wrote her name on the scoresheet for the fourth and final time. The powerful strike came from an impressive distance and bumped the score line to 11-0.
To seal off a stellar afternoon, Leyna Wood secured two goals in stoppage time at the end of regulation time. On both occasions, the American analysed play well and positioned herself in the prime spot to seal the deal on a cross. All in all, it finished off an outstanding 13-0 win.
Above: Lauren Continibali, who had a hugely influential first half for Perth RedStar today. Photo: Perth RedStar.
A spell of four goals in 26 first-half minutes led the way for Perth RedStar to hit top spot on the NPLW WA ladder for the first time this season.
One of the stars of the show in the first half was Lauren Continibali, who was involved in three of RedStar’s four goals in the opening 45.
With 14 minutes on the clock, it was her run up the right and low cross across the face of the goal that allowed an unmarked Caitlin Doeglas to turn the ball home.
Eight minutes later, it was 2-0, and this time the pair reversed their roles. Doeglas drove up the left and squared the low pass for Continibali to tap home at the back post.
Renee Leota grabbed the third just after the half-hour mark as the visitors cut through the battling home defence once more. Quyen Doan saw a shot deflected up off Sophie Patience and out to the left flank for Doeglas. The Perth Glory A-League Women attacker played the ball back to Leota at the back post. Her first shot was saved by Jemma Skinner, but the rebound fell perfectly for the New Zealander to nod home.
Five minutes before the break, it was 4-0 with a superb goal from Grace Monteiro, who gained possession outside the box in a central position and beat three would-be tacklers and broke into the box to slot home.
One further goal followed, just over 15 minutes from the end, when Jayna Ridley’s cross from the right was volleyed home by Sarah Carroll from close range.
That’s now seven wins in a row for the defending champions, and their next league game, after next week’s break for the State Cup Quarter-Finals, is a mouthwatering trip to Dorrien Gardens to face Perth SC.
Above: Emily Garnett, who played a major part in the Football West Academy’s recovery from 3-2 down to win at Subiaco today. Photo: Football West.
Football West Academy (FWA) came back from 3-2 down with three goals in five minutes to defeat Subiaco at a wet Rosalie Park this afternoon.
The visitors hit the front with nine minutes played when a free-kick on the left-hand edge of the area was chipped in, and Lacey Heys rose highest to nod home on the six-yard box.
FWA doubled their lead just after the quarter-hour mark when a one-two involving Heys ended with the ball going out to Sakura Leong at the back post to turn in a low shot from an acute angle.
However, Subi hit back with two goals in 12 minutes at the end of the half. First, Tayna Campos and Marianna Tabain combined in the middle of the park, and the ball into the danger zone came off visiting defender Nelli Johnson to fall for So-Yi Kim to calmly round Daisy McGreadie Cole and turn it home.
Then, with a minute of regulation time remaining, Tabain fed Kim, who sent a curling shot goalwards that McGreadie Cole blocked with her foot, only for Greta Bailey to dispatch into the net.
The home side took the lead on the hour mark when a superb move by Kim saw her beat both Johnson and Andie Williams-Jones with some aplomb before turning the ball home brilliantly.
Once more, the game turned on its head as an incredible spell of three goals in five minutes restored the FWA’s control over proceedings.
Indeed, Subi’s lead lasted only five minutes, and a one-two between Theodora Mouithys and Emily Garnett ended with the former’s shot being saved by Monique Todd. A clearance fell perfectly for Garnett on the edge of the box in a central position to dispatch a powerful shot into the net.
With 68 minutes played, the teenage visitors took the lead as Garnett hit a long-range shot from a central position that was saved by Todd, but fell kindly for Klaudia Houlis on the left edge of the box to turn home.
Then, with 20 remaining, Garnett collided with Todd in the box. Despite strong protestations from the home side, a penalty was awarded. Garnett picked herself up and saw her penalty come crashing down off the crossbar and hit the extremely unfortunate Todd on the head as it came down, with the ball just touching the net before coming back out.
It was tough on Subi, but the Football West Academy showed great battling spirit in coming back to clinch this win, which propels them up to second on the ladder.
STATE CUP QUARTER-FINALS: 19th June: Balcatta Etna v Hamersley Rovers. 20th June: Football West Academy v Perth SC. 22nd June: Murdoch University Melville v Perth RedStar, Fremantle City v Subiaco.
NPLW WA ROUND 13: 28thJune: Football West Academy v UWA-Nedlands, Perth SC v Perth RedStar. 29th June: Balcatta Etna v Subiaco, Fremantle City v Murdoch University Melville.
Above: NWS Spirit line up for their game against UNSW.Photo: Georgina Lewis
Round 14 of the National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW competition delivered drama, quality finishes, and saw significant movement on the ladder as the race for finals intensifies. With results that swung in stoppage time and standout individual performances, every match had something on the line.
Match of the Round – Macarthur Rams 1–2 APIA Leichhardt Lynwood Park
APIA Leichhardt continued their resurgence with a crucial 2-1 win over the Macarthur Rams in a rematch of last year’s Grand Final.
Returning to APIA colours, Sophie Hoban opened the scoring in the 9th minute after a slick through ball from Ash Brodigan. Despite Macarthur starting brightly and creating several early chances, they were continually denied by APIA keeper Sally James.
Macarthur equalised in spectacular fashion in the 67th minute, with Tea Mucenski producing a bicycle kick from a pinpoint Breier corner to level the match. But just three minutes later, chaos in the box saw Ash Crofts pounce and fire APIA back in front.
Despite late pressure from the Rams, the visitors managed the final moments expertly to seal all three points.
NWS Spirit 1–0 UNSW Christie Park
In a tightly-contested clash between two finals hopefuls, NWS Spirit snatched a dramatic win with virtually the last kick of the game.
With both sides creating chances in the second half, it took a 95th-minute moment of brilliance to break the deadlock. Victoria Martin’s low cross found Kayla Osborn in traffic, and although UNSW cleared initially, Skye Halmarick met the bouncing ball with a sublime half-volley that kissed the post and went in.
Spirit’s win keeps them firmly in the top-four conversation, while UNSW will rue their missed opportunities.
Northern Tigers 6–2 Newcastle Jets North Turramurra Rec Area
The Tigers roared back to form with a commanding 6-2 win over the struggling Jets.
Beth Bernardi and Haley Johnson put the hosts two up before a Josie Allan-led attack forced an own goal to give Newcastle hope. Lily McMahon restored the two-goal cushion before halftime, and Tigers ran away with it in the second half with goals from Mischa Anderson, Josie Wilson, and Charlotte Mortlock.
Aaliyah Kilroy’s tap-in made it 5-2 before Mortlock’s screamer sealed a dominant Tigers performance that pushes them back toward the top four.
Bulls FC Academy 2–0 Mt Druitt Town Rangers Northbridge Oval
Bulls FC Academy stunned league-leaders Mt Druitt with a well-drilled 2-0 win at home, extending their unbeaten run to six matches.
Elizabeth Grey struck twice from corners—once in the 15th minute and again in the 53rd—to seal a famous win for the Bulls. Their disciplined setup and threat from set pieces proved too much for the visitors, who struggled to find rhythm and offered little in response.
Sydney University 1–2 Illawarra Stingrays Sydney Uni Football Ground
The Stingrays extended their unbeaten run to six matches with a 2-1 away win over Sydney University, powered by a fast start.
Siobhan Edwards opened the scoring inside eight minutes after being played in by Alexia Karrys-Stahl, before captain Caitlin Cooper added a second with a thumping header from a corner.
Jaime Beaufils gave Uni a lifeline with a converted penalty in the 70th minute, but Illawarra held firm to stay second on the table.
Sydney Olympic 3–0 Gladesville Ravens Peter Moore Field
Olympic continued their turnaround under George Beltsos, securing a confident 3-0 win over Gladesville Ravens.
Sarah Yatim opened the scoring early before Aideen Keane doubled the advantage with a slick run and finish in the second half. Alyssa Whinham, a revelation since returning from A-League Women duty, capped things off with a long-range strike in stoppage time.
It’s Olympic’s third straight clean sheet and a sign their push away from the bottom of the table is gathering momentum.
Manly United 1–1 Western Sydney Wanderers Cromer Park
Manly United were denied a win at the death as Western Sydney Wanderers snatched a point in the final minute.
Talia Younis put the Wanderers ahead with a sharp finish in the 60th minute, and they looked on course for all three points until Ellie Kerr blasted home a thunderous half-volley from a corner in the 90th.
Manly drop points in their bid to re-enter the top four, while Wanderers will take confidence from a gritty performance away from home.
Final Thoughts
With just eight rounds to go, Round 14 reminded us just how tight the NPLW NSW season has become. APIA’s resurgence continues, Spirit find late magic, and Bulls FC Academy’s rise adds another twist in the finals race. At the other end, the Jets’ defensive woes deepen, while Olympic’s revival promises more surprises to come.
Stay tuned — the second half of the season is just heating up.
Above: Ann Odong in match day mode with The Matildas. Photo: ABC.
Whilst the arrival of Joe Montemurro as The Matildas’ new head coach took all the headlines last week, the announcement that Ann Odong is to depart her role as the team’s media manager was just as big for many of those around the women’s game in Australia.
Why is this the case? Simply, Odong is both a legend and a role model. She diligently supports those who support the women’s game, going out of her way to provide people insight, advice, and the benefit of her experience and achievements. Put simply, Ann Odong’s encouragement and accessibility have enabled so much of the phenomenal growth in interest in The Matildas through her superbly crafted media campaigns and support to the people who cover the team.
Impetus has grown into the site it is today, thanks to the support Odong gave us in our early days.
In this special article, four of our site’s writers explain the impact she has had and how she has inspired them to become who they are.
Then, Penny Tanner Hoath, who coached Ann at Gosnells City Soccer Club, south-west of Perth in Western Australia, and then supported her during the embryonic journalist’s earliest days at Radio Fremantle in the early 2000s, shares her memories of those days when Odong was cutting her teeth on The World Football Programme on the station.
A role model and inspiration
by Genevieve Henry
Above: Matildas training captured by Genevieve Henry on her first in-person media event – an experience which was made even more special for her thanks to the presence of Ann Odong. Photo: Genevieve Henry for Impetus.
Ann Odong is an incredible role model and one of the most respected people working in Australian sports media. While that may sound like fangirling (it definitely is), she earns this by being one of the most talented, professional, and kind people I have encountered on my journey.
Long before I ever dreamed of press conferences or accreditation, I would spend hours scrolling through and admiring Ann’s work as a football photographer. Her ability to capture beauty and tell a story is uncommon amongst sports photographers. Something about her work feels more personal, more human.
From her use of unconventional angles and framing to the clarity and quality, her photos are a step above so many others. Ann certainly inspired me to get into football photography, so it’s only fitting that years later, she would play a central role in my own career.
In addition to her aforementioned excellence, Ann fosters an environment so welcoming that a terribly nervous teenage girl could feel welcome in press conferences.
Working for Impetus has given me countless incredible opportunities, including access to Matildas’ press conferences. Up to a certain point, I had only been writing up reports based on the video files, but one lucky window I got to attend a press conference over Zoom. I was panicking, because asking Mackenzie Arnold anything was the biggest thing I had done so far—Ann soothed those fears from the moment I logged online.
I became accustomed to these press opportunities with Ann in charge and began to feel as though I belonged just as much as every other journalist there.
Months later, I had my first in-person press opportunity, and my anxiety felt larger than life. There I was, surrounded by journalists twice my age with equipment that made my eyes water to think about the cost, in my homemade Matildas hoodie and messy airport hair. If I could have curled up into a ball, I would have. But when Ann stepped in to get the ball rolling, my fears were instantly soothed.
If my memory holds up, the first thing she did was sing a snippet of a Beyoncé song to check on the microphone (now that I write it, it sounds like a hallucination!), and just that simple act made me feel much more light-hearted and brave. Her comforting and professional presence cultivates the best journalistic environment – one of truth, openness, and excellence.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ann when I had my first photography credentials for an international match. I ran into her while waiting for team photos, and although she was likely extremely busy, she was kind enough to not brush me off. That moment of recognition fueled me to embrace my position and feel confident in myself. Ann inspired me and so many other women in sports media to feel as though we deserve to be here.
Thank you, Ann. Australian football media, the Matildas, and I (amongst countless others) are forever indebted to you!
The driving force behind irreversible growth
by Kieran Yap
Above: A large number of Matildas fans gather in Perth – Ann Odong played an instrumental role in the team’s accessibility and popularity. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
It’s impossible to quantify what Ann Odong had brought to Football in her time as media manager of The Matildas. But what we do know for sure is that the game has never been more popular, and it has never been more accessible for media and fans.
The Matildas have never been bigger, women’s football has never had more potential, and she has long been a driving force behind what now seems like irreversible growth.
It is exciting to think of what might be next for Australian women’s football’s most influential off-field figure after she finishes up as Media Manager for Australia’s most beloved national team. The sport is a better place with Ann in it.
She saw the potential and supported it wholeheartedly
by Ben Gilby
Above: Ann Odong. Without her recognition and support in our earliest days, Impetus would not be where it is today. Photo: Australia UNHCR.
For years, as someone who lives 10,000 miles from Australia, my experience of the Matildas was getting up at ungodly hours and powering up the laptop to shout at a screen.
In 2019, as the World Cup in France that year came to an end, I wanted to combine my appreciation of the women’s game with my love of writing – to cut a long story short, Impetus was born as a ‘one man band’ in September of that year.
As The Matildas were the national side that I’d always been so passionate about since the mid-2000s, it was natural that they played an integral part in our earliest coverage along with what was then still known as the W-League. So, one day, armed with a number of articles with a gradually increasing number of views, it was time to bite the bullet – be a bit cheeky and ask if the site, its writers, and photographers could apply for Matildas accreditation.
An email was sent off to Football Australia media, and, if I’m being honest, no reply was expected. But, within a few days, Ann Odong replied. She had clearly had a look through some of the examples of our writing that I’d sent and gave us permission in 2020 to get on the Matildas’ media list.
The access that Ann Odong gave to women’s football media is like no other. Other national sides only offer in-person opportunities. For Ann, it’s all about the accessibility of The Matildas – and that is a major reason why they are, without question, arguably the country’s most beloved sporting team.
Ann gives Zoom access to media events, video files of player features, and sends out special interview packages to all media. It means that if you are located on the other side of Australia, or in my case, the other side of the world, you can still report on The Matildas. You can play a role in lifting their visibility further.
Then there are the little personal touches that make Ann who she is. There was a strange moment on the terrace at Kingsmeadow, where I stood during Sam Kerr’s early days at Chelsea with a large Western Australian flag. During one WSL game, I heard a voice in front of me – “Ah! You must be Ben.” – It was Ann. Clearly, my status as the Matildas nut who lives in South-West London was spreading.
She didn’t have to do that, but she did – a phrase that is synonymous with her.
Fast forward to 2022, and The Matildas themselves were at Kingsmeadow for open training and a media conference before playing South Africa the next day. It was one of those weird ‘pinch me’ moments. As I walked into a small room at the ground, fiddling with a video camera in front of a table was Ann. “Hi Ben! So good to see you!” she said. My nerves went.
The video camera set-up ceased, and she began talking to me about me personally. Naturally, we both have strong connections to Western Australia, and conversation turned to some of the things we miss most about the place – coffee being one of them. Within moments, she gave me a personal recommendation of an Aussie cafe in South London. A place I now frequent regularly. Thanks Ann!
Then, when head coach Tony Gustavsson walked into the room, the first thing Ann said to him was – “Tony, meet Ben, he covers The Matildas in-depth from England.” Once more – she didn’t have to do any of that. Her job was to set up the media room ahead of the presser. But she didn’t. She stopped, recognised me by name, and focused on what she knew about me. She personally introduced me to the Matildas’ head coach. That’s going way above and beyond.
Without her early recognition of the potential of our site and our writers back then, Impetus would never have reached the position it is in now. It was access to and our coverage of The Matildas that opened the door for us to get accreditation for the Lionesses and WSL.
Ann Odong – I would not be where I am today without you. Our site would not be where it is today without you. On behalf of our team of just under 100 contributors, thank you.
Such an important advocate
by Ella McShane
Above: A packed Stadium Australia prior to the Matildas’ World Cup semi-final against England – part of the huge success of the event was Ann Odong’s media campaign. Photo: Ben Gilby.
During the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Matildas’ media team executed one of the most successful media campaigns in modern sports history. The campaign elevated every facet of women’s sport on Australian shores and beyond.
The woman behind it? Ann Odong, Ugandan-Australian storyteller, strategist, advocate, and the off-pitch hero who led a team that changed the game forever during that transformative summer. Her official job title, The Matildas Media & PR Manager.
The ‘Til It’s Done’ campaign, brought to life under Odong’s leadership and storytelling, became more than just a unifying slogan; it was a nationwide movement that brought out the best of Australian culture.
The movement advocated for the minorities that had previously not had a seat at the table and marketed the Matildas as a team that represented all Australians.
The campaign partnered with the world-leading corporate sponsorships and the storytelling by Odong and her team, crafted one of the most powerful global identities in sport. For the first time, it was women at the forefront of what it meant to have a national team crest on the heart.
Often not conceptualised by consumers, this elevation of quality and competitiveness in the women’s game has been made possible by people like Ann Odong. The Australian football media community and beyond will always be inspired by her World Cup legacy.
I’m so damn proud of her… she single handedly made the Matildas the brand they are today
by Penny Tanner Hoath
Above: Ann Odong (back row, far left) pictured at Gosnells City Soccer Club. Photo supplied by: Penny Tanner Hoath.
Ann walked into my world as a shy, unassuming teenager, then named Doris, and into my football club in the mid-2000s, Gosnells City Soccer Club, about 25 minutes south-west of Perth, searching for a place to feel welcome and some purpose and connect to a community.
Her family had arrived in Australia some 10 years after escaping from the terror in Uganda. I did not know about her background until we became fast friends, and I had taken her under my wing. That knowledge served to endear me more to Ann as she simply got on with life, looked after her family, and absolutely jumped into new opportunities with the energy we all simply expect of Ann.
Maybe finding someone like me, a female, who played decent football, was in the media, and had total passion for the sport, was akin to finding a new home. I saw in her a spark for living and wanting to give something and to belong somewhere.
Along the way, the then Doris applied for her driving licence and, to my surprise, changed her name to her legal birth name, Ann. We all learnt to call her Ann, which was tricky at first and took me years to get a hold of after knowing her as Doris.
Ann was an avid reader and, being incredibly astute, she didn’t need telling twice with that famous encyclopaedic memory; she would call anyone out if you forgot and impress anyone in a conversation.
Ann joined the World Football Programme in the mid-2000s as a shy young lady and flourished in this space. She didn’t know if getting behind the microphone was going to be her thing, but was willing to try under my tutelage. That encyclopaedic knowledge had to be used for something more than just reading!
Ann is easy to talk to, but was very quietly spoken at first. We worked on that, I nurtured her in the studio until she didn’t need me there anymore and could host on her own.
I gave her space to expand in all ways, contacts, introductions, and guidance. Ending up behind the microphone, challenging all of our resources, processes, and guest lists, and taking command of all of the technology of the time in our community station and at home and anywhere a microphone or laptop could be, was second nature in a short time for her. No problem at all.
Above: Whether it’s behind a camera, in front of a camera, or speaking face to face, Ann Odong is a class act. Photo: Australia for UNHCR.
She learned fast and explored everything she could in the world of live radio until there was nothing left to consume in that space. A professional in that space when she left us around five years later.
People loved what she did in those early years, as it spotlighted a big need that wasn’t being filled, locally and nationally. She NEVER EVER STOPPED working. Nothing has changed there.
One of Ann’s first notable interviews at World Football Radio was with a very young teenage Sam Kerr, accompanied by her Mum, in the studio at Radio Fremantle 107.9fm in Hamilton Hill. This was before anyone else besides us in Perth knew there was a Sam Kerr to be reckoned with.
That initial contact with Sam (through her Mum), I think, fanned the flames of possibility and thoughts whereby making personal connections was a pathway she could use to step into higher and wider levels of women’s football.
Remember, Ann entered the women’s football arena when few people were connecting the potential with its possible growth, so she was pioneering in media and making a LOT of friends and connections along the way, well before any move to Melbourne, studying law and landing a job at Football Australia.
Who knew back then that this was all part of laying the groundwork for what was going to become the number one national brand, and she would lead that global brand into a World Cup on home soil? I’m so damn proud of her. I believe she is the person who single-handedly made the Matildas the brand they are today. Don’t try telling me any different.
I was very sad to see Ann leave Western Australia, but by the time she left the World Football Programme, the Women’s Game website she had created was the single most accessed women’s soccer portal in Australia, and she had established herself as the oracle with a hard-working team around her.
What an inspirational person. Total dedication to the cause, total respect for everyone around her, and loyal over and above everything. She just needs to get some more sleep then she could fit more in (My lips to God’s ears.) This is an Ann saying from her Mum.
What makes me smile about Ann (besides the above) is when she says “Lordy”. It comes from a place of ‘OK, let’s take a moment and think about that,’ with a hint of amusement, knowledge, and possible mischief. Pretty much sums up the relaxed Ann that I know and love.
Above:Subiaco goalkeeper Monique Todd gets a hand to the ball under Perth SC pressure today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Balcatta Etna 8-3 UWA-Nedlands
by Ben Gilby
Three goals in an eight-minute spell in the second half ensured that Balcatta Etna finally put a stubborn UWA-Nedlands side to the sword at Home Group Stadium.
Whilst the home side ran out comfortable winners in the end, the visitors showed real character and skill to keep hitting back. In doing so, they scored three goals of the highest quality.
There were new faces across both teams, with Balcatta bringing in Izzy Foletta after the defender had a break at the end of her A-League Women commitments with Perth Glory, along with former NTC midfielder Ella Marwick. The visitors gave a first start to striker Taylor Reid, who has been among the goals for both Murdoch University Melville and Curtin University in the league previously.
It was an action-packed first half with six goals in a 34-minute spell. The hosts took the lead eight minutes in when UWA-Nedlands paid the price for a loose pass across their penalty box, with the ball falling perfectly for Lucy Jerram to hit a first-time shot in from around 10 yards.
UWA-Nedlands levelled in a similar vein when an errant pass from Balcatta enabled Chloe Rodrigo to hit a spectacular first-time shot which flew in from the right-hand edge of the box.
Parity lasted just eight minutes before the home side regained the lead. A superb flick pass in the middle of the park from Zoee Spadano released Jerram, who accelerated away into space and hit a shot that visiting goalkeeper Madison Large pushed to the right, but only as far as the on-rushing Abbey Meakins to slot home from close range.
UWA-Nedlands have been more than capable of scoring goals all season, and they struck yet again just after the half-hour mark when the ball was played back to Emily Dinsdale on the right-hand edge of the area. Her effort floated straight into the top left-hand corner of the net. Quite possibly, it was meant as a cross, but regardless, the visiting side had their second spectacular goal of the half.
This time, the scores were only level for three minutes as Meakins was played in from the right by a centimetre-perfect pass to dispatch past Large from the edge of the area.
Balcatta grabbed a two-goal advantage three minutes before the interval when a lofted pass was played through for Jerram to run onto. In these situations, there is only going to be one outcome – the attacker raced through the wide open space to smash home her second of the afternoon.
The home side grabbed their fifth of the afternoon just before the hour mark when Meakins fed Jamie-Lee Gale, who advanced and rounded Large to slot home.
However, still UWA-Nedlands would not lie down, and with 68 played, a lofted pass was too high for Marwick to get a head on and Dinsdale was able to run through and lift a sumptuous shot over Bennett and in.
Then came the decisive period of the game as Balcatta stepped down harder on the accelerator. Two minutes after Dinsdale’s goal, a superb one-two between Spadano and Meakins resulted in a ball going across to the back post for Liana Cook to turn in.
With 74 on the clock, A free-kick on the left ended with Meakins letting fly with a superb effort that flew into the top right-hand corner.
The 11th and final goal of the afternoon came when Gale broke clean through, but saw her shot parried by Large, only for the ball to fall perfectly for Cook to dispatch her second of the game.
This win extends Balcatta’s winning run to four in a row – a period in which they have scored 21 goals. It sets the scene perfectly for next Saturday’s showdown with Perth SC, which will be some game.
UWA-NEDLANDS: Large, C. Gaspar, Cain, Dadswell, Preiato, Rodrigo, E. Gaspar, Short, Dinsdale, Riches, Reid. Substitutes: Hartley, Visic, Beese, Carr, Vulin.
Scorers: Rodrigo 17′, Dinsdale 33′, 68′.
Football West Academy 4-0 Murdoch University Melville
by Ella McShane
Above: Theodora Mouithys, who opened the scoring for Football West Academy on Saturday. Photo: U18sNPL
The Football West Academy (FWA) put on a dominant display as they earned a 4-0 victory against Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) at the Sam Kerr Football Centreon Saturday.
The home side seized the initiative from the start as a combination of powerful overhead clearances and a confident build from the backline posed an immediate threat to the visitors
Theo Mouithys made FWA’s early dominance a reality, striking against the already grappling away side just 11 minutes in. The attacker, a recent call-up to the national team set-up, analysed MUM’s efforts to neutralise the threat and positioned herself perfectly to openly receive the ball from her surrounded teammate Ava Santos. Mouithys’ momentary but powerful dribble forward created unstoppable momentum to bury the opener with confidence.
As the first half progressed, FWA sustained its dominance. This made for a demanding shift for goalkeeper MUM FC Kaitlyn Mohan. Called to action on multiple occasions, Mohan maintained composure and confidence between the posts.
In a desperate bid to prevent a goal-scoring opportunity, the visitors’ Luana Ascenzo-Cabello fouled FWA skipper Klaudia Houlis inside the box which resulting in a yellow card and a penalty awarded.
Houlis stepped up to take it. Mohan briefly got a glove to it, which provided hope for a dramatic save. But the power behind the strike saw the ball deflected into the net, the home side 2-0 up 31 minutes in.
The second half commenced, and the youngsters did not take long to find their goal-scoring groove. Loose passes from MUM allowed FWA to take possession and exploit clearances. Sam Brady’s cross from the right wing was put into the net for an own goal, securing a 3-0 lead at 48 minutes.
In a similar bid to gain control, MUM’s Monique Baiamore fouled Houlis, resulting in a yellow and a free kick at a distant but prosperous spot for FWA. Xuri Dalton stepped up to take the shot and powerfully rocketed the ball into the back of the net, confidently securing the decisive 4-0 scoreline.
Above: Caitlin Doeglas, scorer of Perth RedStar’s fourth goal today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Perth RedStar secured their sixth straight win after coming from behind to defeat Fremantle City.
The opening 40 minutes were a midfield tug-of-war, with RedStar’s sharp passing repeatedly challenged by Fremantle’s disciplined defensive structure. With only a handful of breaks forward for either side, play remained locked at the halfway line.
Fremantle’s Abbey Green was finally able to make a break forward on the left wing towards the port city side’s goal. Green crossed it into box delivering to teammate Erin Siah, whose initial shot was parried by RedStar goalkeeper Gabby Dal Busco. Quick to react, Siah followed up on the rebound, slipping past Dal Busco and heading the ball home to give Freo the halftime lead.
The second half had barely begun when RedStar found the equaliser. In an effort to break down the visitors’ tight defensive block, Renee Leota sent the ball back to Jay Coleman, who struck a clean volley toward goal just outside the box. Initially intercepted by goalkeeper Megan Phillips, the save was not secured, and the ball went in.
As they are so successful at doing, RedStar were now able to maintain possession in their favourable half of the pitch, and the goals came in rapid succession. Despite a congested box, Leota managed to launch an ultimately successful overhead shot on target, which put her side 2-1 ahead in the 53rd minute.
A mere three minutes later, and a clean run from the RedStar backline, travelled through midfield and delivered the ball at an open Jayna Ridley, who was able to secure the comfortable 3-1 lead for the home side.
Freo tried to rally and were seen more offensively again. Sophie Meaden’s shot at 79 minutes ricocheted off the crossbar straight down onto the goal line, but didn’t go over it.
In the final minutes, a free kick was awarded to RedStar following a foul by Sofie Obourne just outside the box. Sarah Carroll’s ball in was delivered to Caitlin Doeglas, who comfortably sealed the 4-1 win.
Above: Perth SC’s Ella Lincoln (right) in action against Subiaco today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Perth remain top of the NPLW WA after what was in the end, a comfortable win over Subiaco at Dorrien Gardens today.
Whilst the home side had to work hard to against a well-organised Subi outfit to find the initial breakthrough, once it came the goals flowed, with five different scorers on the mark.
The opening 45 minutes were akin to a bit of a chess match. Subiaco were well-disciplined and set up to push high and deny the home side space.
The home side dominated possession and territory, but as a result of the hard-working visitors, it took until a minute before time for Perth to take the lead.
Tijan McKenna gained possession in the middle of the park and played a pass out to the left flank. After a series of short passes inside and back out to the flank, a cross came in from the left that was just out of the reach of Hannah Collins. However, Sam Mathers was on hand on the right to turn the ball back in for Ella Lincoln to turn the ball home.
The second half saw the Azzurri dominance continue, and this time, with the Lincoln-Flannery combination in full evidence, the goals flowed.
With 54 played, Maja Archibald found Georgia Cassidy inside her. The Glory A-League star played a perfectly judged ball through to McKenna who let fly from 25 yards to send a rocket into the net.
On the hour mark, it was 3-0 as Lincoln gathered possession in the midfield to play in Flannery on the left who advanced and rolled a low shot into the right-hand corner of the net.
Two further goals in a four minute burst sealed the deal. Lincoln and Flannery combined once more in a move that ended with Flannery putting in a low cross for Mathers to turn home.
Finally, an excellent three pass move ended with Lincoln finding Flannery yet again with the resulting ball into the box finding Epril Nossent at the near post who sent a shot trickling into the far corner.
The Azzurri now go on to face all the other sides in the top four in successive weeks, beginning with Balcatta Etna away, before hosting Perth RedStar and travelling to the Football West Academy.
SATURDAY: Balcatta Etna v Perth SC, Fremantle City v UWA-Nedlands. SUNDAY: Murdoch University Melville v Perth RedStar, Subiaco v Football West Academy.
Above: The Lionesses in a recent game. Photo: Shell Lawrence for Impetus.
Sarina Wiegman announced her squad for this summer’s Euros from St.George’s Park this afternoon.
This summer, England’s Lionesses will be aiming to defend their Euros title. They were champions on home soil in 2022, which was followed up by a first world cup final appearance in 2023.
The squad heading to Switzerland this summer will look very different to the squads of these tournaments. England have been rocked by a series of high profile retirements: first Mary Earps, then Fran Kirby, followed by Millie Bright withdrawing due to exhaustion after playing in four different tournaments for Chelsea.
Her withdrawal points to the larger conversations around scheduling – with players expected to handle increasing loads whilst also adapting to the pressures that come from the growth of the women’s game.
There is also a question around why players are choosing to retire so early – Earps and Kirby are both in their early 30s, and whilst the circumstances underlying their retirements will inevitably differ, it is a striking pattern.
Impetus has also discussed players – though not national team – who are choosing to retire even earlier, particularly throughout Europe. For example, players in the Dutch league are retiring as young as 21.
This leaves the England squad looking very different compared to previous tournaments. In goal, there is a lack of experience – though Hannah Hampton is established as Chelsea’s no.1, she only has 14 senior caps, and backups Khiara Keating and Anna Moorhouse are both uncapped.
The loss of Kirby is not as unexpected – the midfielder only chose to retire after being informed that she would be a reserve player in case of injury.
There is a wealth of young competition in her role – Grace Clinton and Jess Park are both solid attacking midfield options, alongside the more experienced Ella Toone.
Bright’s absence is arguably the most impactful. The Chelsea stalwart captained England at the 2023 World Cup and would have been expected to start every game. In her absence, captain Leah Williamson will be expected to partner Alex Greenwood at centre-back, unless she is preferred at left-back, in which case Lotte Wubben-Moy would likely partner Williamson.
England are blessed with a wealth of talented defenders – it is the leadership at the back that has taken a major blow. Hampton is not known for being vocal, and she will have to manage a back line of vastly more experience.
It will be up to Williamson and Greenwood to lead the team from the back – which is a lot of pressure for them to handle.
It is certainly a new-look England that are heading to Switzerland this summer; ironic considering the narrative that Sarina Wiegman struggles to trust young players.
The full squad is presented below:
Goalkeepers
Hannah Hampton, Khiara Keating, Anna Moorhouse
Defenders
Leah Williamson, Alex Greenwood, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Lucy Bronze, Maya Le Tissier, Esme Morgan
Midfielders
Grace Clinton, Jess Park, Ella Toone, Georgia Stanway, Keira Walsh
Above:Renee Leota (right) – who has had quite the month with Perth RedStar – here seen celebrating her 300th appearance for the club. Photo: Perth RedStar.
5/6/25
We’ve assembled a group of people who are watching the competition’s matches especially closely to identify the league’s most consistent players each month. For May, Ben Gilby, Kelechi Osunwa, and Tommy Doleman produced a shortlist of four players, from which the winner was selected.
The shortlist – May 2025
Abbey Meakins (Balcatta Etna)
Above: Abbey Meakins (left) has been hitting the heights as Balcatta return to winning ways. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
May has been the month that Abbey Meakins and her Balcatta team have begun to pick up the wins. After a stop-start opening to the campaign due to having to play all their early matches away from home due to renovations and several postponements, the side has been behind the eight ball from the start. Following a 5-0 loss to Perth RedStar, Balcatta have been going all out to put things right, and Meakins has been in inspiring form, crashing home four strikes in her side’s other two league games during the month. It’s not just the goals, though. The attacker is a key part of the link-up between her side’s talented midfield and forward line as they look to establish themselves in the top three.
Kim McCartney (Perth SC)
Above: Striding forward purposefully, Perth SC’s Kim McCartney. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Her team remains unbeaten and has moved to the top of the ladder. Kim McCartney has been a huge part of that success this month at both ends of the field for Perth SC. The Azzurri‘s defence has had a settled, rock-solid look to it, with McCartney leading the way with the tackles, energy, and work rate to ensure that opponents simply won’t break through. Perth conceded just one goal in their three league games during the month, and on top of that, McCartney, always a talented free-kick specialist, contributed two goals in their 8-0 win at Murdoch University Melville.
Andrea Preiato (UWA-Nedlands)
Above: Andrea Preiato bursts forward for UWA-Nedlands. Photo: Celena Lyons.
Andrea Preiato has stepped up to the plate in decisive moments this month for UWA-Nedlands as her team won two of their three league games to move clear of the relegation place in the competition. May opened with Preiato scoring one of the goals in her side’s vital victory over Murdoch University Melville, a game between two teams who, up to that point, were looking for their first wins of the campaign. Preiato has been an excellent link-up player with the ability to beat players with a glorious flick of the ball.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month for May 2025:
Renee Leota (Perth RedStar)
Above: Perth RedStar club legend Renee Leota has had a stunning May. Photo: Perth RedStar.
It’s not just been a stand-out month for Leota. It’s been a historic month. May has seen the New Zealand international not only make her 300th appearance for the club – but she has also played a huge role in her side winning every one of their games during the month. RedStar scored an incredible 21 goals in May with Leota contributing five across three of those games, including a hat-trick in the team’s 6-2 win over UWA-Nedlands. Renee Leota epitomises everything about her club – loyalty, skill, determination, and high achievement. The Kiwi star is going all out to add to her incredible record of honours won at the club and doing it at top form.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month Roll of Honour 2025 season
Above: Sophie Harding for NWS Spirit. Photo: Aptitude Photography
Round 13 of the NPL NSW Women’s competition marked the halfway point of the 2024 season, and it didn’t disappoint. From stunning long-range strikes to dramatic late winners, the weekend served up a bit of everything — and with just a few points separating the top contenders, every result now feels decisive.
Mt Druitt kept their grip on top spot with a composed away win, while the Wanderers snapped their losing streak in style. Elsewhere, UNSW edged a five-goal thriller, Olympic found much-needed momentum, and several finals hopefuls continued to jostle for position.
Here’s your full wrap-up of an action-packed weekend.
Match of the Round: Western Sydney Wanderers 5–0 Newcastle Jets Wanderers Football Park
The Western Sydney Wanderers snapped a five-game losing streak in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 5–0 victory over the Emerging Jets in a dominant performance at home.
Miriam Zumaya struck early, finishing a one-on-one chance in the 7th minute after a long ball from Amelia Bennett. She doubled the lead 11 minutes later, reacting quickest to tap in a rebound after a long-range effort from Lauren Nada was parried into her path.
The Wanderers continued to pile on the pressure in the second half, outshooting the Jets 30 to 10. Amy Barker capitalised on a wayward pass from the goalkeeper to make it 3–0 in the 68th minute, before heading home a well-worked short corner routine for her second just twelve minutes later.
Olivia Vanderlaan capped off the win in the 90th minute, tucking home from close range after a sharp assist from Ava D’Costa.
Western Sydney Wanderers Starting XI: Lauren Nada, Chelsea Barton, Alyssa Mckenzie, Miriam Zumaya, Alvina Khoshaba, Anika Stajcic, Ava D’Costa, Talia Younis, Jasmin Selva, Amelia Bennett, Amy Barker. Substitutes: Estella Cameron, Catalina Wyrzynski, Olivia Vanderlaan, Christa Oliva, Annabelle Croll, Tahlia Voskanian.
Newcastle Jets Starting XI: Isabella Threlfo, Sophie Howarth, Kate Heap, Emma Dundas, Layla Sharpe, Navah Crofton, Marni Duggan, Julieanne Fox, Annika Driscoll. Substitutes: Josie Allan, Lily-Rose Dunbar, Lacey Dobson, Aaliyah Kilroy, Charlotte Lowrie, Mackenzie Preston-Poole.
NWS Spirit 0–2 Mt Druitt Town Rangers Christie Park
League leaders Mt Druitt Town Rangers continued their strong run of form with a professional 2–0 win over NWS Spirit in the round’s only Saturday fixture.
The Rangers wasted no time asserting their dominance, going ahead in just the 2nd minute. A high press forced Spirit into a turnover in their own half, and Adelaide Wyrzynski capitalised with a quick cross into the area. While the initial attempt was blocked, Leena Khamis was on hand to bury the follow-up.
They doubled their lead in the 23rd minute when Khamis dropped deep to thread a brilliant pass through the defence. Erin Tavares let the ball run onto Wyrzynski, who blasted a first-time strike into the roof of the net.
Spirit pushed for a way back into the game but couldn’t break through a composed Mt Druitt defence.
NWS Spirit Starting XI: Tiahna Robertson, Erin Pridmore, Kayla Osborn, Bethany Gordon, Skye Halmariack, Ella Abdul Massih, Princess Ibini-Isei, Madison McComasky, Cristina Aunon, Sophie Harding, Ariana Stoltzfus. Substitutes: Shani Cooney-Cross, Victoria Martin, Rubi Sullivan, Siena Hawkins, Viktorija Calusic, Grace Smith.
Mt Druitt Town Rangers Starting XI: Holly Williams, Kaiya Buchanan, Rosaria Galea, Olivia Sloan, Erin Leah Tavares, Leena Khamis (C), Tiarne Flavin, Ella Buchanan, Ena Harada, Adelaide Rosalinda Wyrzynski, Renee Krstanovska. Substitutes: Laura Tredinnick, Emily Kos, Holly Dalrymple, Jessica Robinson, Rita Boateng, Keiko Tanaka.
Bulls FC Academy 1–1 APIA Leichhardt Northbridge Oval
In a tightly contested clash at Northbridge Oval, Bulls FC Academy and APIA Leichhardt played out a 1–1 draw in a match that showcased two sides with finals aspirations.
APIA opened the scoring in the 27th minute after a slick passage of play ended with Charlotte Lancaster being brought down in the area. Ashlie Crofts converted from the spot with a composed finish into the bottom corner.
The Bulls hit back just seven minutes later when Tamires Souza bundled the ball over the line after a chaotic scramble from a corner.
Both sides searched for a winner in the second half, but the points were ultimately shared.
Bulls FC Academy Starting XI: Mio Nemoto, Elizabeth Grey, Avaani Prakash, Claudia Valletta, Tamires Souza, Jasmine Meli, Petria Phillips, Jynaya Dos Santos, Gemma Ferris, Amber Luchtmeijer, Indiana Dos Santos. Substitutes: Ashley Henebery, Arna Hogarth-Scott, Daniella Naimi, Grace Johns, Jade Guichon, Ashley Hughes.
APIA Leichhardt Starting XI: Sophie Magus, Claudia Cicco, Jessica Seaman, Teal Kilbride, Te Reremoana Walker, Charlotte Lancaster, Ashlie Crofts (C), Jordan Jasnos, Estelle Fragale, Sophie Hoban, Alyssa Rose. Substitutes: Hannah Mcnulty, Mia Golding, Zoe Panagopoulos, Christina Kilecec, Paige Cuthill, Ashlee Brodigan.
UNSW 3–2 Northern Tigers The Village Green
UNSW made it three wins on the bounce after a thrilling 3–2 victory over the Northern Tigers.
Demi Koulizakis opened the scoring in the 34th minute after a bursting run and assist from Angelique Hristodoulou. The Tigers levelled early in the second half through Beth Bernardi after a smart pass from Charlotte Mortlock.
Just minutes later, Skye Casacchia put UNSW back in front with a stunning half-volley from outside the box. The Tigers responded once again, this time through a well-placed header from Haley Johnson in the 75th.
But it was substitute Trudy Camilleri who had the final say, heading home an Hristodoulou cross in the 82nd minute to seal a memorable win.
Northern Tigers Starting XI: Josie Wilson, Isabella Keech, Savannah Murray, Haley Johnson (C), Charlotte Mortlock, Saffron Grass, Beth Bernardi, Olivia Cartwright, Bo Burton, Aimee Longhurst, Jasmine Black. Substitutes: Lily McMahon, Greta Kraszula, Mischa Anderson, Rosie Ewin, Annaliese Glastonbury, Isla Witham.
Macarthur Rams 2–4 Sydney Olympic Lynwood Park
Sydney Olympic picked up a vital win in their fight to climb the table, downing the 2024 champions Macarthur Rams 4–2 in a high-scoring affair.
Olympic took the lead early when Alyssa Whinham’s shot deflected off Chantelle Maniti and found the net. Macarthur equalised soon after through an outstanding strike from Amelia Cassar.
Whinham restored the lead with a confident penalty before turning provider alongside Sarah Yatim to tee up Aideen Keane for 3–1. India Breier pulled one back before halftime, but Olympic sealed the win through another Whinham finish in the 77th.
Manly United came from behind to defeat Sydney University 2–1 and keep touch with the top four.
Sydney Uni struck first through Alice Thompson, who cut in off the left and found the bottom corner. Manly equalised after halftime when Emily Minett beat the offside trap and found the net with help from a deflection.
Minett then bagged the winner in the 79th minute, latching onto a long goal kick from Jodie Drever and finishing calmly past the keeper.
Sydney University Starting XI: Charlotte Owen, Alice Thompson, Amelia Feeney, Talia Kapetanellis, Jaime Beaufils (C), Megan Simpson, Tahliya Sambrook, Jenny Hill, Jennifer Kokoris, Sofia Fante, Maria Tsavalias. Substitutes: Charlotte Hogan, Maddie Caspers, Ruby Egan-Brown, Hannah Callaghan, Ellen Hughes, Zanthe Juric.
Illawarra Stingrays 1–1 Gladesville Ravens Macedonia Park
A late equaliser saw Gladesville Ravens snatch a point against the Illawarra Stingrays in a 1–1 draw.
Caitlin Cooper gave the Stingrays the lead in the 76th minute after a lung-busting run and a neat exchange with Chloe Middleton. But Miku Sunaga answered back for the Ravens just two minutes from time, rising highest to head home the equaliser and ensure both sides took a point.
Illawarra Stingrays Starting XI: Sophie Emery, Alex McKenzie, Poppie Hooks, Chloe Middleton, Siobhan Edwards, Alexia Karrys-Stahl, Danika Matos, Annabella Keep, Caitlin Cooper, Sofia Christopherson, Brooklyn Hudson. Substitutes: Kaelah Austin, Adelaide Thompson, Ella Giles, Kate McPherson, Helena Halios-Lewis, Sophie Bailey.
Gladesville Ravens Starting XI: Annie Halls, Lexie Moreno, Breanna Buccini, Morgan Roberts, Keisha Allen, Poppy Channing, Allyssa Ng Saad, Miku Sunaga, Isabella Habuda, Taren King, Shamiran Khamis. Substitutes: Eliza Coleman, Charlotte Wilford Carroll, Kaylie Shannon, Natalie Sproule, Eliza Hamilton, Alethea Levy.
With the ladder tightening and form lines beginning to emerge, the second half of the season promises plenty of drama. Mt Druitt remain the team to catch, but a cluster of in-form sides — including the Bulls, UNSW, and Manly — are building serious momentum.
At the other end, the battle to avoid the bottom is heating up, with crucial clashes ahead for Macarthur and the Jets. Round 14 is shaping up to be another defining weekend, and if Round 13 was any indication, there’s still plenty of twists to come.
Above: Rebekah Stott (13) in possession for the Football Ferns against Venezuela yesterday. Photo: RNZ.
The Football Ferns responded from a disappointing performance and result against the Venezuelans at the end of last week to level the two-match series in Spain yesterday.
New Zealand were hungry to secure a win and ensure they tied the series. Ferns’ coach Micheal Mayne made five changes to the starting lineup, rewarding a number of players who were not included in the first match. Those players included Liz Anton in the defensive line, Manaia Elliot, Milly Clegg, Jacqui Hand, and Kellie Brown in the midfield and forward positions.
The match started with a similar feel to match one as Venezuela had an early opportunity to score the opening goal from deep inside the Ferns’ half in the opening minutes. Keeper Victoria Esson was called into action, but the shot sailed across the face of the goal and exited harmlessly on the other side.
New Zealand started this match much more positively. Their first real opportunity came in the tenth minute as they launched a counterattack, harnessing the speed and precision of Hand. While no shot was put on goal, a lapse of discipline by the Venezuelan defenders taking down Ferns defender Taylor resulted in a penalty. Katie Kitching stepped up to take the kick, but the shot deflected off the post.
With Annalie Longo playing in her preferred midfield role, much more energy and speed in transition were demonstrated, giving the Ferns forwards space to work with.
The next real opportunity for a goal came in the 40th minute as Venezuela were awarded a free kick just inside the field of play from the Ferns’ left-hand corner flag. An average-looking kick was not collected by Esson, allowing Mariana Speckmaier to somehow get a toe on the ball and slide it into the goal.
Just three minutes later, New Zealand leveled the scores. A pass back from the midfield to the defenders that looked innocent was played up the right-hand wing, and a beautiful cross from Brown found Clegg standing unguarded in the area, and a quality shot beat the goalkeeper.
Just mere seconds later, a speculative chip kick by Castellanos midway in the Ferns’ half, flew over Esson’s head and missed the target by a manner of inches.
The second half started with New Zealand applying all the pressure. Venezuela were mostly held in their own half as they were unable to find their way into the opposition’s half. It wasn’t until the 58th minute that the South Americans had their first scoring opportunity, which arose from a corner kick, won by Speckmaier. The ball fell nicely for the Ferns and was easily tidied up.
New Zealand grabbed the winner in the 72nd minute following Venezuela’s inability to clear the ball from deep within their half. Following a pinpoint accurate cross in front of the goal, a lovely cutback and nutmeg by Elliot found Hand waiting to guide the ball into the net.
It was fantastic to see both teams’ hunger from this point on, as each team fought to get the win. The Ferns fought hard to gain possession and shut out the Venezuelan attacking forays while their opposition desperately sought out avenues to move the ball into the New Zealand half. The final twenty minutes of the match went backwards and forwards with neither team gaining the ascendancy as the Ferns gained the win.
The Ferns team looked far more comfortable in this match, and the chemistry among players was much more apparent. With Longo dropping back into the midfield proper, she became the provider of quality through balls and an additional defender as required. With Longo being able to maximise her speed, space was created at the front for the strikers to sit high up the pitch.
The introduction of players who value keeping possession also made an impact. Hand, Brown, and Elliot all provided speed and precision along with chemistry with their teammates, which was largely missing in the first match.
New kids, Manaia Elliot and Deven Jackson, both had high-quality matches and looked very comfortable mixing it up against international opponents.
In a reversal of the first match, the Venezuelan team found the going tough trying to break through the Ferns’ lines to get into attacking areas. With no space opening up through the middle, the wings were targeted first, and then long balls over the top became the strategy.
However, the Ferns were up to the challenge, and besides giving up one goal, the tactic of applying pressure and maintaining possession worked throughout. Venezuela lacked the intensity that they played with in the first match and came up short.
Ultimately, the team that had the greater level of on-pitch chemistry took the win across both friendly matches. In match two, the New Zealand players who missed out playing earlier in the week, took their opportunities and showed that they are hungry and capable of more.
Teams: NEW ZEALAND (3-4-3): Esson, Taylor, Anton, Moore, Stott, Longo, Kitching, Elliot, Hand, Clegg, Brown. Substitutes: Bunge (46’), Hahn (66’), Pijnenburg (66’), Green (84’), Hassett (72’), Jackson (46’).
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