Above: Marc Skinner and Ella Toone. Photo: Manchester United
Manchester United face a much-changed Everton in the Women’s Super League this Sunday. Ahead of the game, head coach Marc Skinner has been talking about his fear of The Toffees’ “unpredictability”.
This weekend, Manchester United face a resurgent Everton. The Toffees dismantled Crystal Palace 3-0 in their last run out, with goals from Kelly Gago, Justine Vanhaevermaet, and Sara Holmgaard. Recent games have also seen them beat Aston Villa 2-0, with goals from new signing Maren Mjelde and Japanese International Honoka Hayashi. Between September and December, the club scored six goals in the WSL; since January, they have scored fifteen. Under new ownership, the club made six significant signings in the January transfer window, and this investment is paying off.
Above: Everton celebrate their win over Villa. Photo: Everton Women
Since January, Everton’s goal scorers have come from across the pitch, with an unpredictable attacking shape meaning opponents need to adapt throughout the game. Referencing this unpredictability, United head coach Marc Skinner declared that his team are prepared for the possibility of facing different shapes. He added that although the Toffees tend to “give you space”, United will “have to be really focused” to manage their unpredictable attacks.
In the media, there has been a relatively rare week of positivity for Skinner. Ella Toone, arguably United’s most recognisable player, spoke about the support she has felt from her club coach throughout the most difficult season of her career. Following the loss of her father last September, she experienced her first major injury as a professional player, ruling her out of contention for both United and England for two months.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Toone said: “Throughout the hardest part of my whole life, he was there, and he got me through it. I know that his door’s always open, and I can have an honest conversation with him and ask for advice, but also, if I need a shoulder to lean on, I know that I can lean on him”.
In an era where news coming out of either Manchester United team (men’s or women’s) is rarely positive, this was a welcome story for Skinner. Although he says that this kind of heartwarming message from one of his players is harder to deal with personally than the criticism that comes with his job, he added that he is “so, so proud of the way she has been able to deal” with the last few months.
This also comes at a time when there has been the occasional story about player distress at Manchester United. In an Instagram post in February, Brazilian forward Geyse wrote “staying in a place where we don’t feel happy is an agonising and lonely feeling. Every day seems heavier, and the simple fact of being there becomes a burden”. The club have consistently denied that there is a negative environment around the women’s team, and Skinner shared his hope that Toone’s comments will “tell the truth about the environment and about me as a person”.
Above: Geyse celebrates. Photo: Matt Appelby
The head coach was also asked about how he is planning to help players navigate the complex months leading up to a major international tournament (this summer’s European Championships), whilst maintaining their attention at club level. Skinner highlighted the importance of good relationships with teams from the national set-up; the head coach alongside their sports science staff. “I talk with Sarina before and after every camp”, he shared, adding that they “have a good relationship”.
The next few weeks are make-or-break for United’s season; although they are currently seven points ahead of Manchester City in the third Champions League place, they also have the toughest run-in. In their final weeks, United face West Ham, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Whilst most focus is on the final three games against the rest of the top four, the two games against resurgent Everton and West Ham are vitally important to maintain the difference to their cross-city rivals.
In a boost to United fans’ hopes, Skinner shared that barring long-term injuries (Evie Rabjohn) and suspensions (Gabby George), the entire squad is fit ahead of Sunday’s game.
Manchester United v Everton kicks off at 12:00 GMT on Sunday and will be streamed live on BBC iPlayer in the UK. Australian coverage will be on Optus Sport.
Above: Perth Glory’s Georgia Cassidy speaking at today’s media conference. Image: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory’s Young Matildas midfielder Georgia Cassidy has revealed that her firm determination to disregard medics’ advice that she would be out injured for the rest of the A-League Women season spurred her recovery to return and influence her side’s last four matches of the home-and-away season.
Cassidy injured her quad against Brisbane Roar in January, and whilst the initial prognosis was serious, the 19-year-old showed character and grit to return to action at least a month sooner than originally expected.
“It was pretty hard watching (from the sidelines),” the Perth-local said, “but the support around me was pretty good, which made it a lot easier…knowing that I was going to be out (originally) for the rest of the season just motivated me to come back sooner.”
The midfielder’s comeback game came in last weekend’s vital victory over Western Sydney Wanderers, which, thanks to Izzy Folletta’s goal in second-half injury time, kept the Western Australian side’s Finals hopes alive.
“I’ve been waiting a long time (to get back to full fitness)…and to come away with the win was very good,” the Young Matilda smiled.
Above: Georgia Cassidy (right) in action against Western Sydney Wanderers last weekend on her return from injury. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.
While Cassidy looked to fit seamlessly back into the purple machine, she did admit that the one thing that proved to be a bit of a challenge was match sharpness after her time on the treatment table. The teen starlet recognised the influence of co-captain Izzy Dalton around her on the pitch to keep her going.
“You know you can always trust her…she always lifts you up as well,” the midfielder said.
The Glory now have a huge game on Saturday in their bid to make Finals. Canberra United, who are just two points ahead of Cassidy and her teammates come to the Sam Kerr Football Centre, where Perth are in red hot form.
Another home win will give the Western Australian side a massive confidence boost to their hopes going into the last two games of the campaign, which will see them travel to Sydney FC and host unbeaten Melbourne City on the final weekend.
This will be the third time that Canberra and Perth have met this season. The previous results were a draw in Sydney during Unite Round and a frustrating defeat in the national capital despite the Glory having more shots on target, a greater percentage of possession, and greater passing accuracy.
Cassidy feels there is unfinished business between the two sides, and this Saturday will be the perfect time to put things right. No extra motivation is needed. “We feel like they just snagged points off of us each time we versed them this season, so they gotten pretty lucky, so we want it back!”
Melbourne City’s undefeated A League Women’s season is still in tact after they defeated Brisbane Roar 4-0 tonight in their rescheduled match from a couple of weeks ago.
City really showed their class, and really opened things up in the second half with goals to Holly McNamara, Bryleeh Henry and Mariana Speckmaier after Taylor Otto opened the scoring early in the first half.
Melbourne City initially dominated possession, but almost brought themselves undone when one bad pass in defence – which has been a bit of an issue for them this season – was pounced on by Tameka Yallop, but fortunately for City the subsequent goal attempts were unsuccessful.
However, City did not have to wait long to eventually get on the board, getting a goal on the board inside 10 minutes. It was messy at times, but eventually Otto tapped the ball in past several Brisbane defenders to convert a TJ Vlajnić corner.
Despite the early goal, it did not feel like there was a change in momentum as the match remained pretty open and free flowing.
One thing that City did do really well though was regularly be in the right place in the right time to pinch possession off their hosts, so at times it felt like there were more City players on the pitch than Roar ones.
It was a very entertaining and at times fiery first half, but in the end Otto’s goal was all that separated the teams at the break.
The even, free flowing nature of the first half continued into the second, as the match was free flowing and full of end to end action.
For City, Lourdes Bosch was looking really dangerous out on the right wing, while for the Roar, Momo Hayashi was really dangerous through the centre corridor, not afraid to show off how much power she has in her shooting game.
City eventually did themselves a second goal at about the 70 minute mark when McNamara beautifully struck the ball first touch from the top of the box, straight into the back of the net.
City’s defence was really on show in the second half, really neutralising the Brisbane attackers. Combine that with Brisbane’s going offside problem and Brisbane rarely looked even close to scoring, despite how hard Yallop, Hayashi and Emily Pringle were working.
City were not done scoring though, as Henry added to the tally with about two minutes of regulation time to go after pinching the ball off Brisbane defender Isabella Hoyos, steaming towards goal and converting.
Speckmaier put the full stop on the evening after converting a Leticia McKenna cross with less than half a minute left in extra time.
The really telling full time stats were around the shots each side managed to get away.
City had double the number of shots the Roar did (22 to 11) and had nine more shots on target than their hosts (13 to four. City also took most of their shots inside the box (15 to one), while Brisbane took most of its shots outside the box (10 to seven).
Teams: BRISBANE ROAR (3-4-2-1): Richards, Blissett, Hoyos, McQueen, Hayashi, Kruger, Kuilamu, de la Harpe, L. Freier, Yallop, Popadinova. Substitutes: Cuthbert, Gibbon,Morris, Pringle, Woods.
Above:South Melbourne players celebrate a second half goal against FV Academy. Photo:Passion Creations
South Melbourne defeated a 10-player FV Academy on Saturday night after a second half goal fest that saw the game end 7-2. Miesha Westland, and Nikka Furukawa both scored twice for the home side while Fiorina Iaria’s finish was a highlight for the visitors.
It only took three minutes for the first major incident of the game, Dragan Kljajic played Furukawa through behind the Academy defence and she was pulled back by Amelia Tartaglia as the last defender.
The resulting free kick from Olivia Bomford did not threaten Charlotte Hrehoresin in goal, but The Academy side were under immediate pressure.
Westland’s storming run through the centre set up the opening goal. After spreading the ball wide to Kljajic, the chance ended up with Raquel Derales, and although the former Calder striker’s effort was blocked, Furukawa was on hand to slide the ball home.
Despite being a player and a goal down, FV Academy responded admirably. South Melbourne captain Francesca Iermano conceded a penalty and Eva Kokotis struck the resulting spot kick accurately to level the scores.
South Melbourne retook with lead on the half hour mark. An underhit backpass ended up with Derales who’s square pass was finished off by Kljajic.
FV Academy drew level in stylish fashion before the break. Heidi Dalton’s clever pass ser Iaria free with all the space she needed to draw her side level once again. The first touch set her up for the shot, and the second lofted the ball perfectly over the onrushing but well positioned Cristina Esposito.
South Melbourne came out after halftime in top gear, and Iermano’s early cross earned them a penalty kick. New signing Tiff Eliadis stepped up to take it and although the shot was saved by Hrehoresin, Westland reacted quickest to knock in the rebound and make it 3-2.
Eliadis’s influence grew throughout the match and the former Melbourne Victory championship winner set up Bomford with a lofted pass that the striker finished confidently over the goalkeeper. That made it 4-2 and the game was getting away from FV Academy.
Another Eliadis run helped put the result beyond any doubt. The eventual pass set up Westland for her second and she took the chance with a calm low finish.
The floodgates were well and truly open and Mami Ambo made it 6-2 after sneaking behind the defence and rounding the goalkeeper.
In the dying stages, Furukawa made it seven with a tap in after the ball bobbled off the crossbar. It was a deserved goal for the playmaker and it would be the final goal of an eventful game.
FV Academy showed plenty of promise for the rest of the season. Despite the score, they played with an attacking mindset and did not go into damage control mode after losing a player. Iaria’s goal was taken superbly. It was a quality individual effort to finish off an impressive team move.
After an opening day draw again Bentleigh Greens, South Melbourne found their groove against FV Academy. Importantly, the new signings all performed well. Eliadis was instrumental in the second half, and Derales showed all the craft that has seen her lift every trophy available in Victorian top flight football.
This was an exciting and interesting game, and when these teams meet again it should be another entertaining fixture.
Around the grounds, Heildelberg United scored a late winner to defeat Bentleight. Steph Galea’s finish after a long bomb by Mia Bailey awarded all three points to the visitors. the defending Champs are now two wins from two games in a solid start to the campaign.
Essendon Royals and Box Hill United wrestled out a 2-2 draw. Emma Perrone and Josephine Aulicino scored for the home side, while Sasha Coorey and Grace Paradis scored for The Royals.
Despite peppering the Spring Hills goal for over 90 minutes, it took until the dying stages for Bulleen to defeat newly promoted Spring Hills FC. Nia Salleh’s excellent finish separated the teams in the second minute of added time. The chance was unlocked by the vision and technique of Sarah Cain, who’s ball from deep in midfield split the Spring Hills defence, and gave Salleh a 1-1 chance which she finished across the keeper.
A Neve Duston brace gave Alamain a slightly surprising win over last season’s Grand Finalist’s Preston Lions. Her second goal was an early contender for the best of the season. It was a rocket from distance to delight the home crowd at Dorothy Laver.
The highlight of Boroondara-Carey Eagles 3-1 win over Brunswick Juventus was Priya Savarirayan’s long solo run from wide and emphatic finish at full pace. That goal followed Drew Dempsey’s opener with Anastasia Ramel responding for the home side.
Above: Arsenal manager Renee Slegers watches her team train. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Ahead of a vital Champions League clash, Arsenal’s Leah Williamson and manager Renee Slegers spoke of the squad’s “anger” and the vitality of keeping good moments “in your pocket just as much as the bad”.
Tomorrow night Arsenal will face Real Madrid in the second leg of their UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter final. In the first leg, the London-side returned to the UK with nothing after a 2-0 loss. For tomorrow’s match, all of Arsenal’s players, barring long-term injured Lotte Wubben-Moy, will be available. Laura Wienroither, who made her post-ACL injury comeback at Saturday’s WSL match against Liverpool, is unlikely to start as she “comes back from a long-term injury”.
This first leg fixture sparked outrage as it was played on a water-logged, cut up, pitch. Speaking on this Slegers said: “We have to deal with any circumstance and if the competition rules say that this pitch is good to play, we have to deal with it”. Providing a player’s perspective on the grass, Williamson reiterated the fact that “two teams played on the pitch”, saying that “the anger is more at ourselves [than at the pitch] because we know what we can do, and we didn’t [deliver]”.
Tomorrow Arsenal will play at the Emirates, a stadium where Slegers says they “thrive”. Whilst Meadow Park is a “more intimate setting”, the Emirates is a greater stage which allows for larger crowds. Speaking on playing at big stadiums, Williamson said: “I think we’re very lucky here [at Arsenal], in that the stage tomorrow night isn’t foreign to us”.
Although tomorrow’s match is an away fixture for Real Madrid, they enter with a two-goal advantage. Slegers said that Arsenal must “plan for all possible scenarios”, emphasising that her squad will “be calm and composed”. Slegers knows what this game means for people, and what it means for her team, but is also aware that “all games are important if you’re coaching Arsenal”.
In preparation for tomorrow’s game, Slegers’ side have reflected on the first leg. Speaking on this, Williamson said: “It’s about us taking individual responsibility first and foremost”. She stated that “when you’re underperforming you look inwards first, this team is very good at doing that”.
Above: Leah Williamson training ahead of Real Madrid. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Recently, the product of looking inwards “has been great”: following their elimination from the FA Cup by Liverpool, Arsenal beat Liverpool in the WSL. Slegers is “really happy” with what her side did against Liverpool and Williamson states that these results prove that Arsenal “can turn things around” giving the players “confidence”.
Player confidence further stems from Arsenal’s “experience of overturning the last quarter final against Bayen Munich”. Williamson said that “anyone who was involved in that game will have confidence” as the circumstances were “very similar” to those seen in this set of matches against Real Madrid. Against Bayern, Arsenal “had a great second half finish” and wanted to pick up where they left off – “that’s the aim for tomorrow as well”.
Despite the similarities between these previous scenarios with Liverpool and Bayern Munich, tomorrow is “a completely different task”. Williamson anticipates that defenders will “have to be very disciplined” as Real Madrid’s “threat comes with fast attacks”.
Above: Arsenal celebrate overturning a 2-0 deficit in 2023. Photo: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian
Arsenal’s own attacking forwards, Chloe Kelly and Caitlin Foord, stood out in their most recent Liverpool match. When asked about these wingers, Slegers mentioned that “they are just two examples” of the quality in the squad. She stated: “They are important players but everyone on the pitch is very important”.
In addition to looking at their own games, the Arsenal staff watched Real Madrid’s match against Barcelona in which Madrid made history by coming away with a 3-1 win. Slegers said that the staff “reviewed the game the next morning” which they “always do” as they’re “very detailed on opposition”. The manager noted how Madrid has “been developing their play” and took away “a lot of learnings” but highlighted that “that’s them” and the focus tomorrow is on “us”.
Fans are not the only ones hoping that Arsenal make it through to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, footballing organisations across the UK are hoping that an English club can win the title this season. Williamson stated that this is the goal “from an FA perspective and a WSL perspective”. She said: “It’s up to one of us to make that happen”.
Currently, Arsenal is the only English side to have ever one the Women’s Champions League. When asked about the possibility of her club bringing home the title for the second time, Williamson said “it would be incredible”, describing the thought as “the dream”. For Arsenal, “tomorrow night is another step in that journey”.
As a lifelong Arsenal fan, Williamson wants her club to win as a supporter, in addition to as a player. Slegers has spoken to Williamson about her relationship with Arsenal and acknowledged that “Arsenal means a lot to Leah”. Despite this, she encourages Williamson to separate this love for her club from how she plays on the pitch, stating that players should focus on “what they need to do here and now because thinking about history and what lies in their future is not going to help in the moment”.
Tomorrow Williamson and the rest of Arsenal’s squad, will concentrate on getting the ball across the line to secure their spot in the semi-final of the Champions League. Arsenal is expecting over 20,000 fans to turn up for what is set to be an exciting match.
As Slegers stated, “football is unpredictable and that’s the magic about it, that’s why people come to the stadium”. Arsenal v Real Madrid kicks off at 8pm tomorrow and can be watched on DAZN’s Youtube or BT Sport – the result truly could go either way.
Above:Keira Skeels in action for Charlton Athletic. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.
“I hold myself to very high standards and that’s what I expect from other people. It’s about setting the example and showing others the standard we want to be playing at.”
Notching up 100 matches of football for one club is a remarkable achievement for any footballer. For a young player at the young age of 23, it’s an even more tremendous one. Kiera Skeels is a central defender and captain of Women’s Championship team, Charlton Athletic.
Describing herself as dedicated, hardworking, and competitive on the field is a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment she brings to football. Skeels is a quiet character who lets her actions, both on and off the pitch, do the talking. Regarded as one of the nicest and kindest teammates in football, her talented football skills are matched only by the delicious baking that she provides her team mates.
Starting out
Like many football players, it was in the backyard of her family home that she found her enjoyment for football. Beginning at the age of seven, playing in a mixed team was her entry point to the game, until the age of 12 when she moved into a girls’ team. It was through playing with and against boys teams that brought out her competitive side.
Her work ethic and commitment to ongoing improvement through the various junior grades and development academy over the years, culminated in her being signed to play for Reading’s first team.
Being chosen to play for the first team is a huge accomplishment. Not every player gets the opportunity to impress, and Reading provided a lot of support for Skeels to grow into her potential. Even so, being selected for the first team squad didn’t automatically result in game time playing matches. But being in the squad gave her the chance to train and learn from some fantastic players such as Fara Williams and Natasha Harding.
Growing self
While at Reading, Skeels took up a loan option with Bristol City for six months. Making the move was an easy decision as getting minutes and matches was the most important factor. With City not performing to their potential at the time, having a chance to join the team and make a positive contribution made complete sense.
In terms of disruption to her life, Bristol is not far from Reading in terms of geography, so relocating was straightforward given that Skeels could regularly visit her family home with ease.
At the end of the loan period, her desire to keep playing minutes in matches was priority. Heading into the end of the season there wasn’t initially a clear next step, but being in an environment that fosters and nurtures her development was crucial. Being able to sign a contract with Charlton Athletic as a member of the first team was the perfect next step in her career development.
Above: A picture in concentration: Kiera Skeels. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.
“Having the consistency of playing regular first team football was most important.” But there is still more to work on in terms of her football skills and abilities. She has recognized how important it is to work on her physicality, her work rate and her ability to keep up with the pace of the game. Having made big gains in those areas while at Charlton, she has changed her focus to developing her technical and tactical skills. Given her high standards of performance, she is now asking herself – ‘what other areas do I need to work on?’.
“The psychological aspect of football is something I have really worked hard on in the last two years. And I have also stepped up into a leadership role. So these two aspects have been my biggest area of development in the last two years.”
“How can I become the best player I can, including those skills in my game?”.
When you’re enjoying your football, are feeling valued and a big part of the team, that helps. You really want to do your very best and give everything for the team. It helps when you’re playing with a smiley face and seeing the rewards from that.
In the 2023/2024 season, the Charlton Athletic women finished second overall in their league, narrowly missing out on being promoted. In reflecting on the season that was, Skeels spoke glowingly about how great the team atmosphere was to be in.
International Duties
Being selected for the England Under 23 squad was an incredible honour after having worked her way up through the various lower age group representative teams, including the under 17s, under 18s and under 19 teams. Being selected to play in the Under 23’s is serious business, with the next step being selection for the England national team. Not only did she get to experience playing with some of the very best players in England but she also competed against some of the very best young players in the world.
Taking the pitch alongside some now famous players such as Lauren James, Fara Williams and Jess Park was an incredible experience. The player speaks very highly of the many young players who are currently breaking through into the top tier of women’s football: currently.
“I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside them”.
Stepping up to lead
Through her commitment to excellence, Skeels was soon elevated into the role of captain for the Charlton Athletic women’s team. She describes herself as ‘not your typical captain’.
“I’m quite a quiet character and I don’t shout at people or tell people they aren’t doing things right. I have my own style that I have developed. My style is to lead by example. On the pitch I do everything I can to win, leaving all my effort out there and that is what I expect from my teammates. Through showing others what I expect coupled with my positivity, that is when I am at my best leading others.”
At first, leading was something she found difficult because it was not a responsibility that she was used to. However, having the trust of the people in the coaching team and knowing they had chosen her specifically for the role, enabled her to step up and into the role of leadership.
Above: Kiera Skeels plays the ball forward for Charlton Athletic. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.
Her leadership philosophy is demonstrated through her use of her actions to make a point rather than just saying it. “I am someone who will put my arm around you and lead in that way.” Adapting to this style of leadership is something the team has done well. When needed the team have provided encouragement and support to lift their captain up.
Building a good relationship with the Team Manager has been instrumental for Skeels’ leadership success. Karen Hills, Head Coach, has nurtured Kiera and her leadership style.
For the first two seasons the player was extremely quiet around Hills. “I’m not someone to put myself out there. I tried to go under the radar and that’s how I am”. However, Hills recognized the leadership potential and, through her understanding the optimal conditions that Skeels works best in, they have developed a good understanding of each other.
Nurturing and developing players
Mary Bashford is a young player that Skeels is helping to support as she breaks through into the first team environment. “Thinking back to when I was in her shoes and what I needed in terms of support, and when the younger players come up from the academy, it is making sure they feel at home and comfortable, because we have all been there before and know what it’s like. I want to be the person who is there to help them when they need it”.
Getting coverage and exposure for players in the Championship is another area that the player recognizes as being an important. In the current season, one match a week is broadcast live on YouTube but in the 2025/2026 season all championship matches will be broadcast which will shine a light on the league.
“The audience is there and there are people who want to be watching these teams, week in and week out”.
Engaging with fans
“It’s a great feeling when you have people coming down, supporting you, wanting you to be the best you can. Having little girls and boys idolizing you – that is a great feeling. It’s nice to give back to those fans and make their trip worthwhile.”
Attendees at matches will often engage with the players and Skeels goes out of her way to make everyone she meets feel appreciated and thanked for their support. Her kindness extends off the pitch both pre- and post-match. Members of This Girls Ability have the opportunity be mascots and get photos post-match. Charlton’s captain is often very willing to take a selfie and autograph items.
Above: Kiera Skeels making time for the fans at The Valley. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.
Family and football
The role of family is incredibly important in Skeels’ life. Her parents are her biggest fans and have her England Under 17s shirt, that she debuted in, framed and in pride of place in the family home.
“My family wouldn’t miss a game for the world. They’re always there, always watching no matter where we are playing. They’ll come and watch me play no matter who or where we are playing”.
Where to from here?
Moving onward and upward to the WSL is the optimal goal for Skeels and is what she is working hard to achieve. To get there, playing for Charlton Athletic and striving hard to achieve promotion is key.
“The goal is always to play at the highest level I can and seeing where that takes me”.
Keep an eye on Kiera Skeels. She is a player that will be going places in the future!
Off the cuff
Describe yourself as a footballer in three words – Dedicated, Competitive, Hard working.
Best dancer in the team? – Elisha N’Dow.
A night in or a night out? – a night in, definitely!
Music preference pre-match? – something chilled and not too hectic.
Your go-to goal celebration – a look of surprise that I scored!
Above: Tash Prior and Tom Sermanni at the squad announcement. Image: Daniel Rodriguez provided by Football Australia.
By Genevieve Henry (25/3/25).
Interim Matildas head coach Tom Sermanni has named the 23-player squad set to face Korea Republic in a series of friendlies in early April. “The key thing for us is to get the confidence back in the team and get a bit of the swagger back.”
In a squad that remains largely unchanged from a disappointing SheBelieves Cup, the major piece of news is the absence of Sam Kerr. While Kerr seemed to be nearing her return to play, she was not fit to play for Chelsea before the squad announcement and therefore unable to play for Australia.
“Sam’s still making a comeback from her knee operation a year and a bit ago,” Sermanni shared. “She’s not been fully cleared yet by Chelsea. She’s on the mend and she’s not too far off, so her first priority is to get her on the field with Chelsea and then hopefully she’ll be available for selection for the Matildas.”
Defenders Courtney Nevin and Jamilla Rankin return to the squad after absences after impressing for their respective clubs. They add depth to the left side of defence, begging the Steph Catley at Centre Back question. Clare Wheeler also makes her return to international football following an injury that kept sidelined the last two windows.
“This squad selection is about achieving the right balance – reintegrating players returning from injury and rewarding those who have been playing consistently well in clubland,” Sermanni said. “It’s important to create continuity while also bringing in players who have earned their place through strong performances.”
As Korea Republic are also already qualified for the Asian Cup, both sides will be looking to experiment with and solidify tactics and teams. One of Australia’s most menacing Asian opponents, Korea Republic will be no pushovers and will force the Matildas to do their tinkering under significant pressure.
With Sermanni still at the helm for an unspecified amount of time, the full-time coach will have very little time to prepare for the Asian Cup. But, he is doing his best to work with the team and progress them towards their goals. “Every match leading into the Asian Cup is an opportunity to fine-tune our approach, build cohesion, and ensure we are performing at the level required to take on Asia’s best during next year’s tournament.”
“We are fortunate to have a core group of players competing at the highest levels, whether it’s in the UEFA Women’s Champions League or major domestic competitions. Their ongoing exposure to high-pressure environments is invaluable as we prepare for the challenges ahead, knowing we still have plenty of details to work on heading into next year’s Asian Cup.”
Above: Prior will be familiar with the venue in Newcastle as a Jets player. Image: Daniel Rodriguez provided by Football Australia.
Alongside many of the European-based players, the squad is sprinkled with A-League Women talents, especially the in-form Holly McNamara. This window is vital for her to cement her spot in the attack before Kerr returns. Another star still on home soil is Tash Prior, who joined Sermanni at the squad announcement.
Prior said the experience of playing with some of the current Matildas superstars “hasn’t really sunk in yet.” She explained, “when we’re in a team talk, I’m looking around going “oh my god” at players that I looked up to for so long. It’s my third camp, so I feel settled but I’m still at a ‘pinch me’ state.”
When she got the call that she would once again be in the squad, she got some special motherly advice. “Mum’s message to me was, ‘go in, play strong, and keep your spot’ basically. The upcoming games are just another chance for me to prove myself.”
“Hopefully I can make my way into the starting spot, but any minutes at this stage I’m thankful for,” Prior explained. Although still one of the least experienced members of the squad, Prior brings her calm presence and commanding skills to an area of current uncertainty for the Matildas; the centre of defence.
The Matildas face Korea Republic on April 4th at Allianz Stadium in Sydney and on April 7th at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.
Above: Manchester United celebrate their win. Photo: Manchester United Women on X.
Manchester United beat Aston Villa by a resounding four goals to nil in Birmingham, thanks to a brace from Elisabeth Terland and goals from Grace Clinton and Leah Galton.
It is unlikely that anybody would have predicted Aston Villa’s season. That new manager Robert De Pauw would be replaced mid-season under a cloud of scandal; that they would remain hovering above the relegation places with five games left to play; that their squad including former internationals like Rachel Daly and Jordan Nobbs, youth internationals like Missy Bo Kearns and Katie Robinson, would struggle to find any semblance of a cohesive identity.
Their last win came a month ago against Brighton, and since then they have been beaten by fellow relegation potentials Leicester City, Everton, and Crystal Palace (in what was only Palace’s second win of the season).
Conversely, most Manchester United fans would not have predicted that this close to the end of the season, they would sit seven points clear of Manchester City and equal on points with Arsenal in the Champions League places, with occasional mentions of a title challenge.
Coming into Sunday’s game, however, the picture was slightly muddier. In their last outing, United were treated to a brutal loss at the hands of rivals Liverpool. It was undoubtedly United’s worst performance of the season, and the defence that had only conceded six goals in the preceding fifteen games let in three. To secure their spot in the top three, the game at Villa Park (on United manager Marc Skinner’s birthday) had to finish with three points.
Considering this, Skinner surprised fans by dropping stalwart Dutch midfielder Dominique Janssen to the bench. Janssen is known for her ability to protect the defence and move the ball around the midfield, making crucial challenges and having a seemingly innate ability to win almost every ground duel she encounters. At this moment it is unclear if she has developed an injury, or if she was being rested due to fixture congestion.
From the whistle, United dominated possession. A criticism levelled against possession based teams is that holding on to the ball is useless if nothing is done with it. United have been guilty of this at times, however this was never a feature of their game at Villa Park.
Instead of cautious passes around the midfield and back to the defence, they made every attempt to pass the ball forward. The visitors managed five shots in the opening fifteen minutes, including a double chance for Ella Toone.
United made this count in the 22nd minute. From a weak Villa counter-attack, Jade Riviere passed the ball to Celin Bizet, who knew exactly where her Norwegian compatriot would be. Elizabeth Terland notched her eighth goal of the season, and United were up and running. It only took nine minutes for Terland to score her second of the evening, as Riviere provided a sublime ball into the box for an easy header.
Above: Elisabeth Terland celebrates her brace. Photo: @PFA on X
Villa could not retain possession, and lacked cohesion. They did not seem to know what their own style of play should be, so instead they flipped between systems and formations in a chaotic and unconfident way.
Shortly following half-time, Grace Clinton brushed off the Villa defence to score what must be a contender for goal of the season, lobbing the keeper from near the half way line.
Celin Bizet was forced off following a mistimed challenge from Danielle Turner, in considerable distress. United fans felt the resulting yellow card should have been red, and it was perhaps a sense of injustice which gave United even more motivation to push forward and improve their goal difference. Terland almost scored her third, and United were relentless.
United’s fourth goal eventually came from Leah Galton, following an unselfish pass from Terland, who chose to give up her second opportunity for a hat trick.
Villa were resolutely beaten and appeared dejected. With matches against Liverpool and Arsenal still to come, the midlands side will be desperate to come up with some new ideas to avoid their sixth consecutive defeat. For United, they will be looking to keep momentum and prove that the Liverpool defeat was an anomaly. Given their final three games include Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City, their upcoming game against a resurgent Everton is all the more important.
Above:Erin Cuthbert celebrating after securing three points for Chelsea. Photo: Chelsea Women on Instagram
Erin Cuthbert’s header sealed a 2-1 victory in injury-time for Chelsea in their WSL fixture against Manchester City after a dominant second-half performance saw them come from behind.
Since Vivianne Miedema’s brace inflicted Chelsea’s first defeat this season in Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final tie, Chelsea came out looking to retain their winning ways. The defeat at the Joie Stadium ended Chelsea’s 31-game unbeaten streak and it was Chelsea manager, Sonia Bompastor’s first loss since joining the club from Lyon last year.
The impact of Kerolin Nicoli
Above: Kerolin celebrating with City fans after her opening goal. Photo: Manchester City Women on Instagram
Kerolin Nicoli recently signed for this Manchester City side in the January transfer window, joining from NWSL club North Carolina Courage. Kerolin had two notable chances in early minutes of the game where she was pressing hard on Chelsea’s defence and driving the ball into their half.
Nick Cushing’s team looked as though they would secure a back-to-back victory as City were dominant in attack throughout the first half. Kerolin Nicoli was instrumental in leading the attack and scored the opening goal for the blues in the 32nd minute. Kerolin received the ball on the right edge of Chelsea’s box and skilfully slotted the ball through Chelsea captain, Millie Bright’s legs into the bottom left corner of the net, marking her first WSL goal since joining this City side.
Shortly after Kerolin was involved in a move that saw Jess Park controversially have a goal disallowed. Kerolin was fouled by Bright on the edge of the box, when the ball fell to Park as she curled it into the back of the net. However, referee Kirsty Dowle had already blown for a foul on Kerolin and called for a free kick, which subsequently left the score line remaining 1-0 to City going into half time.
Chelsea’s second half dominant display
With a compelling lead in the top spot of the WSL table, Chelsea could afford a draw but as typical champions they fought for the win, as they look to lift their sixth consecutive Women’s Super League title.
Chelsea came out in full force after having zero shots on target in the first half and they were awarded when Beever-Jones found the back of the net with the help of Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s skilful cutback. City were quick to suffer the consequences of not closing Chelsea down fast enough as Beever-Jones’s goal meant it was level early on in the second half.
Khiara Keating was one of City’s notable star players as she heroically saved goals from Wieke Kaptein, Lauren James and Rytting Kaneryd. However, it took Chelsea substitute, Erin Cuthbert to finish the game off when she came on in the 55th minute to replace Maika Hamano.
Ashley Lawrence’s cross into the far corner met Cuthbert’s head as she directed it straight into the back of the net with only a couple of minutes of injury-time left to play.
Manchester City now sit seven points away from top three, fighting for a spot in the Champion’s League next season.
Interim head coach Cushing will be looking to tighten up defensively especically in counterattacks as City struggled to maintain possession in the latter stages of the game. City showed that whilst they can trouble Chelsea, they’ll need to maintain dominance throughout if they want to progress in the Champion’s League and salvage their chances of silverware this season. The blues will head down to Chelsea on Thursday to close off what will be their fourth fixture against Chelsea this month across various competitions. City are already 2-0 up on aggregate and will push to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Lineups:
CITY (4-3-3): Keating, Casparij, Prior, Aleixandri (Captain), Layzell. Hasegawa, Roord, Coombs, Kerolin, Park, Miedema
Above: Daisy McAllister, who hit two goals for Perth SC as they came from 1-0 down to defeat Fremantle City on Saturday night. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
It was a truncated opening round of NPLW WA action with two matches – Hyundai Football West Academy (formerly Hyundai NTC) against Balcatta Etna, and Murdoch University Melville’s home game with Subiaco both postponed due to extreme heat.
Whilst the program was halved, there was still plenty of hugely enjoyable action on view.
UWA-Nedlands 2-5 Perth RedStar
Perth RedStar overturned a 2-1 half-term deficit to hit back to defeat UWA-Nedlands on Sunday.
RedStar welcomed back striker Caitlin Doeglas from her time at the Glory in the A-League Women, as well as Abbey Woolley being named on the bench.
It was the home side that hit the front with 22 minutes played. From a throw-in, Melina Franklin combined with Alyssa Kinkaid to play the ball into the edge of the box. A bout of head tennis ensued before it fell for Franklin to hit a stunning volley from around 20 yards that flew into the net.
The lead lasted for just over 12 minutes. Kaitlyn Bellanca drove possession forward to the left-hand flank for Caitlin Doeglas to escape forward and drive a shot goalwards that UWA-Nedlands keeper Janina Sauer got a touch to and under pressure from Renee Leota, it looked like the final touch came off a defender as it rolled over the line.
But just as they did so often last season, the home side proved to be stubborn opponents, and five minutes before the break hit the front once more.
Samara Riches’ free-kick on the left-hand edge of the area came in high in the sun, RedStar keeper Gabby Dal Busco could only push it up, and coming in fastest to turn the ball over the line from the closest of range for UWA-Nedlands was Chloe Gaspar.
Above: Sarah Carroll (red shirt above) seen here in action last season, scorer of Perth RedStar’s equalising goal at the UWA Sports Park today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
It was a lead that the home side would hold until just before the hour mark. Bellanca picked up possession midway inside the UWA-Nedlands half and switched play across to the right-hand flank where the ball was nodded on to Sarah Carroll who broke into the box and rolled a cool finish under Sauer to level the scores.
Just as you would expect from RedStar, they continued to up the ante and hit the front for the first time in the game less than two minutes later. From the centre of the park, Leota lifted a perfectly weighted pass into the stride of Jayna Ridley who advanced towards the edge of the area to slide a classy finish past Sauer.
The visitors added two further goals in the final 12 minutes. First, Grace Monteiro gathered possession in the centre midfield and laid a pass off for Leota outside her on the right-hand flank. Leota turned her defender excellently and fed a pass into Ridley who in turn played in Jay Coleman to side-foot home first time on the edge of the box in a central position.
Then in the last minute of regulation time, Doeglas sent a corner into the box from the right that Coleman met on the half-volley at the near post to make it five.
Both sides will take positives from this opening hit out in the fierce heat. UWA-Nedlands showed that they have the character to make life hard for the best in this league. RedStar’s five goals all had class oozing out of them. There’s quite a season of fun and games ahead in the NPLW WA.
Above: It was an influential performance from Fremantle City’s Mikayla Lyons. Photo: via Mikayla Lyons.
Two goals in a seven minute spell either side of the hour mark from Daisy McAllister – the second of which was an outrageous piece of individual skill – saw Perth SC come from behind to beat a talented Fremantle City side.
The visitors were doing their best to disrupt the Azzurri’s plans by chasing everything and looking to force the fatal error. From one such rapid closedown, they grabbed their chance.
With nine minutes played, Freo’s efforts earned turn over ball in the middle of the park which saw Leyna Wood play a lovely little flick to allow Mikayla Lyons to advance towards the area, draw her former teammate Dayle Schroeder in the Perth goal and calmly slot home.
Lyons was absolutely outstanding, particularly during the first half. She was pulling the strings and so instrumental in causing the Azzurri major headaches.
Freo took hold of the centre midfield which enabled them to create two further half chances just before the half hour. First, the ball was lifted through for Sofie Osborne to run onto, before dispatching a shot that Schroeder held at the second attempt. Then, a cross from the right found Lyons in space at the back post, but her effort went wide.
Freo conjured up one further chance when Sophie Meaden was fouled on the right, 25 yards out. Lyons chipped into the mix for Spencer to head over.
Perth came back into the game in the final 20 minutes of the opening half as they switched their point of attack to the flanks with great success. Marshall had already been probing well along the right, but now this was added to by excellent use of the pace of both Jess Flannery and McAllister on the left.
McAllister advanced along the left with 17 minutes remaining on the first half clock and drove into space before unleashing a powerful shot that Phillips held brilliantly.
Shortly afterwards, Flannery made the most of her skill to escape down the same flank before cutting in to dispatch an effort that flashed just wide of the far post.
Then, just before the break, Nossent advanced to play a high ball towards the left-hand post for Flannery to shoot low, but Phillips pushed out for a corner.
Above: Perth SC’s Jess Flannery, who looked to create throughout the game yesterday. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri were the strongest out of the blocks in the second term and substitute Maja Archibald had an immediate influence on proceedings. Making yards down the right, the former NTC teenager played in McAllister inside her on the edge of the box for a low shot to flash wide of the far post.
Perth SC were putting a lot more pace into their passing and there was more zip in the legs as well, which had the desired impact.
Ten minutes into the half, Archibald picked up possession in the centre of the park and drove forward before unleashing a powerful shot that only just went over the top.
Shortly afterwards, a cross came in high from the right to the back post where McAllister gathered, turned her defender, and fired in a low shot into the far corner of the net to level the scores.
Just 60 seconds later, the home side came close again, as Kim McCartney sent a trademark long-range free-kick narrowly over the top.
On the hour mark, Freo gave a reminder of their own threat when Alex Poad released Lyons to advance into the box and drive a shot against the bar before the Perth defence could clear for a corner. The resulting flag kick came in and just flashed wide of the back post.
Then came the moment of the match with 63 minutes played. Violet Longmore’s throw in around 30 yards inside the Freo half on the left found McAllister who lifted the ball over her defender before hitting a stunning drive that flew across Phillips and into the right-hand corner of the net. Pure genius from the Azzurri star.
Fremantle responded by bringing Abbey Green on, and the former Perth Glory A-League player looked to create along the right. The port city side dominated much of the last 10 minutes, but Perth were disciplined and hard-working to deny the visitors any real sight of goal.
Indeed, the home side did have two further chances of their own with Flannery seeing a shot from distance fly just wide before Tamsyn Hannan broke through and lifted an effort wide of the right-hand post.
This was an important win for Perth SC over an opponent who will be a consistently strong threat all season long. Character, grit, determination and skill were all on display as the Azzurri claimed the three points.
impetusfootball.org 