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Wynne: “Now its about doing it away from home”

by Ben Gilby (28/2/25)

Above: Perth Glory’s Megan Wynne speaking to the media ahead of Saturday’s game with Newcastle Jets. Image: Perth Glory.

Perth Glory’s Welsh international Megan Wynne has highlighted the team’s determination to try everything possible to ensure they finally earn their first away win of the season at Newcastle Jets tomorrow.

Whilst the Glory have picked up four wins at home, and are unbeaten in their last three games on Western Australian soil, Perth have only taken two points on the road in 2024/25, and this weekend’s showdown in New South Wales has real significance among the lower reaches of the ladder.

With Western Sydney Wanderers starting to pick up wins, the winner of Saturday’s encounter will keep in touch with mid-table and faint hopes of making the Finals. For the losers, it will be all about finishing top of a three-way battle to avoid the wooden spoon.

Wynne outlined how the team has used their additional week due to the international window to work on how to give themselves the best chance of finally delivering that first away win.

“It’s been tough, especially the longer ones where you’ve got to get one flight, then a different flight.

“We’re getting used to it…we’ve changed the schedule a little bit this week to see if that helps how we travel…instead of training we will be catching an earlier flight and get there and have time to settle. We obviously haven’t had great results on the road, so it’s about adapting things and finding better ways of doing things.

“There’s no hiding from the fact that we haven’t travelled well this season. If you look at those results and if we’d managed to score (more) away from home, the season could be looking a lot different, but mathematically it’s (making top six) possible, so we keep going.”

Perth have produced some good performances and results at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, and the confidence earned, particularly from the victory over Wellington Phoenix prior to the international window, has got the confidence flowing ahead of the game in Newcastle.

“Our last result showed how we have adapted,” explained the midfielder. “We’ve got players back from injury now and the squad is very positive. At home we are a very different team so it’s now about focusing on those points away from home.”

Whilst Perth have suffered a seemingly endless injury list this season, particularly among their midfield and strike force, Wynne has thankfully remained able to play regularly. But it has been far from plain sailing for the Welsh star, after being jokingly accused of “costing the club thousands of dollars in having to have the knee taped up each week.”

Explaining the need for that tape, Wynne said: “Its been a tough season for me personally. I’m probably in a better place now than I was at the start of the season. I’ve basically got loose bodies of cartilage floating around in my knee, and it’s been about managing it. I’m back in full training. I’m probably looking at having an operation in the off season to get those loose bodies, but there’s nothing that I can’t manage at the moment.”

Focusing specifically on tomorrow’s game at the No. 2 Sportsground, Wynne knows it will be a physical battle, but one she is confident can end in victory.

“We know what they are like. We’ve seen all season the intensity that they play at. We know it’s going to be a tough game, but we can take a lot of confidence from the last game we played against them (a 3-2 win at HBF Park in Round Two), but now it’s about doing it away from home.”

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Wanderers claim points in a long drawn-out battle against the Mariners

Central Coast Mariners 1-2 Western Sydney Wanderers

By Alice de Koster-Kitto 28/2/25

Above: The Wanderers celebrate the winning goal. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers have asserted their dominance against Central Coast Mariners at Industree Group Stadium this afternoon. The Wanderers quickly responded to what initially looked to be a 1-0 win for the Mariners for a majority of the match, as they left the impeccable Central Coast defense shaken.

The match was set to be a combative one, with a tough battle in the midfield, kicking off what would be a long drawn-out, and often hostile meeting.

A pass from Cushla Rue, gave Talia Younis the first chance of the match, and despite not being able to get the footing quite right for a shot on target, the chance put Western Sydney in early dominance.

Central Coast were quick to respond when a right-footed shot from Annelise Rassmussen was saved in the top corner by Wanderers keeper Sham Khamis. The strike would be the first of many for Rassmussen, as the momentum shifted in favor of the Mariners, as they took the dominance from a perhaps overly confident Wanderers side.

The contention continued through the first half although it became evident that if a goal were to come before the break, that it would be from the hosts, despite the adversity within the squad in recent weeks. The Mariners have had to reshuffle their squad due to injury, with key players out of regular position, including central midfielder Taylor Ray, taking over as center back. The squad’s resilience, and ability to remain one of the more threatening sides in the league this season, is a testament to the strength both on and off the pitch and has proven to be an invaluable asset over what has been a fantastic campaign thus far.

Danika Matos took a shot from a dangerous angle, adding an element of risk to the Wanderers’ tactics that hadn’t yet been seen in this match, but could very well be crucial as the first half came to a close. One of what would be many wonderful saves from Sarah Willacy kept the ball out of the net, and the match scoreless.

The match became increasingly unpredictable, yet somewhat stagnant, with shots back and forth and the continued tension in the midfield, the constant switching of dominance, and quick responses made it impossible to tell who the opening goal would come from if one was to come at all.

An excellent shot from Izzy Gomez, put the Central Coast Mariners dangerously close to opening the scoring. Though the strike was slightly wide, it restored some of the lost energy in the Mariners side and would have undoubtedly instilled confidence in Gomez, who is returning to form following an injury at the end of 2024.

Despite a wealth of attacking intent and five added minutes, the match was left at a stalemate at the break.

The top of the second half saw Central Coast’s Brooke Nunn, within shooting distance as she attempted to pass the ball to Izzy Gomez, whom she could not quite reach. The futile attempt marked what would be the start of an uncharacteristically shaky second half for the Mariners, as they could have quite easily found the match’s opening goal, had Nunn not shied away from the shot.

Central Coast Mariners opened the scoring in the 68th minute, when a smart pass from Tess Quilligan, allowed Izzy Gomez to get in front of the Wanderers defense, and strike the ball to the back of the net, marking her third goal of the campaign, and first since returning from a knee injury.

Tiana Fuller came close to extending the Mariners lead just minutes later, however, the strike, assisted by Jade Pennock, was saved in the top left corner.

Although taking the lead, the Mariners continued to appear quite unsure of themselves as stoppage time approached, giving away the ball in dangerous areas, displaying an unusual weakness in what is usually an almost foolproof defense.

Western Sydney took full advantage of their opponents’ disarray, as Liv Price netted the equaliser, extending her wonderful history in this meeting, having now scored both home and away against the Mariners.

The visitors almost immediately searched to extend their lead, not wanting to share the points, and although Central Coast did make a few good attempts in response, they faced even further adversity, temporarily playing with just 10 on the pitch, as goal scorer Izzy Gomez was treated for injury.

During six minutes of added time, the tension was built back up to a similar momentum that was seen at the top of the match, with the Mariners trying to reassert their dominance and take back their lead.

Despite their efforts, it was Western Sydney Wanderers who found the winning goal, when an unexpected miss of the ball from Jessika Nah, allowed a strike from Holly Caspers to roll over the line, unable to be stopped by the Mariners’ defense. Casper’s goal led the Wanderers to a 2-1 victory, marking their 3rd consecutive win, and extending what has been an excellent past few rounds.

Round 18 of the Ninja A-League will see Central Coast Mariners head on the road to Coopers Stadium as they face Adelaide United, who currently sit 3rd on the ladder, as they try to maintain their position in the top 6.

Meanwhile, Western Sydney Wanderers will take on Wellington Phoenix at Porirua Park, where the match will be anyone’s game, as the two sides currently sit just one place apart on the ladder.

Teams: CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-2-2-2): Langman, Nash, Martin, Gomez, Pennock, Ray, Rasmussen, Rowe, Quilligan, Nunn, Trimis Substitutions: Carmichael, Fuller, Kraszula, McMahon, Hughes

Scorers: Gomez 68’

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-3-3): Khamis, Buchanan, McComasky, Harrison, Matos, Harads, Chessari, Price, Rue, Younis, Trew Substitutes: Bennett, Saveksa, Kapetanellis, Caspers, Segavcic

Scorers: Price 80’, Caspers 90+3’

Referee: Isabella Mossin

Attendance: 1,346.

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England stun the World Champions at Wembley

**Above:** Spain’s Olga Carmona watches on at Wembley. **Photo:** Mia Betts for *Impetus*

By Catherine MacKenzie (27/2/25)

An energetic defensive performance and first half goal from Jess Park saw England beat Spain in the UEFA Women’s Nations League.

England and Spain have a recent history that is difficult to ignore. In the 2022 Euros, the teams faced each other in the quarterfinals, where England came from behind to win 2-1 thanks to a Georgia Stanway belter. A year later and they faced each other in another major tournament; this time the World Cup final. England’s Lionesses were narrowly defeated and Spain emerged as World Champions, an achievement that would be marred by events off the pitch.

The repercussions of those off-pitch events are still felt today, as the legal case between Jenni Hermoso and Luis Rubiales is ongoing. It is not difficult to imagine that the furore surrounding Spain off-pitch has impacted the team, and recent performances have been mixed. Their characteristic attacking flair has been tinged with an edge of defensive frailty as exposed by Belgium and France; although Spain went on to win both games, they conceded early and looked disorganised defensively.

For their part, England have been under immense pressure in recent months, with performances and results criticised by the media and fans alike. There has been a struggle to score goals, alongside the occasional lapse in concentration that has resulted in the team dropping points in crucial matches – such as conceding to Portugal in the latter stages of the game.

Facing Spain will always be a different animal to facing the rest of Europe; even with defensive fragility and missing players they remain one of the best teams in the world. Housing players like Aitana Bonmati, Mariona Caldentey and ex-Manchester United player Ona Battle, they have a deep squad that is capable of moments of greatness that can appear to come from almost nothing.

This match was an important one, as the UEFA Nations League group standings determine how teams will be placed in qualifying for the 2027 World Cup. For England, there was also the mounting discontent to contend with, as they have simultaneously been seen as favourites for the Euros title and favourites for a group-stage exit.

“They give me headaches”

Wiegman opted for a lineup with only one change from the draw with Portugal. In a sign that the battle for England’s no.1 spot is still far from over, Wiegman opted for Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton over Mary Earps.

Hampton took her chance against Spain, with a few significant saves. Her distribution was also utilised at points to get the ball through Spain’s midfield. Speaking post-match, Wiegman echoed this sentiment, saying “she (Hampton) had a very good performance”.

England’s last loss came back in October, against Germany at Wembley where they conceded four. Since then, they have kept three clean sheets, against the USA, Switzerland, and now Spain. Hampton has been in goal for two of these (Switzerland and Spain), and Earps put in a similarly significant performance against the USA. Two goalkeepers putting in world class performances is a good battle for a manager to contend with, even if it does “give me headaches”.

“The fight and the togetherness, that is the most important thing”

Since her arrival in 2021, togetherness has been integral to Wiegman squads. She named an unchanged starting eleven for all six games of the Euros win in 2022 for this reason, claiming the connections between players are integral for a positive performance.

It has been argued that this togetherness has been less easy to see of late, with the occasional lapse in communication plaguing the back line in particular. In defence, the partnership against Spain was the same partnership that proved so successful in 2022: Millie Bright and captain Leah Williamson. They collaborated superbly and worked in a symbiotic way that left little to no space for Spain to exploit; and when they did break through, Bright in particular made some crucial blocks.

Asked about Bright’s performance, Wiegman summarised that “moments in the game that we had to defend, we had to fight – and that’s what Millie did really well”.

“We showed again that we can compete with the best”

In the early stages of the game, Spain were dominant, having the lion’s share of the possession and giving England no space in midfield. England struggled at first to win the ball back and find spaces to play through the lines. However, around the twenty-minute mark, the momentum shifted as England found their shape and began to keep the ball more consistently.

Spain failed to clear a ball into the box and Alessia Russo turned superbly to fire a shot off. Although this initial shot was saved, Jess Park was perfectly positioned to tap in the rebound, giving England a deserved 1-0.

England then showed an important indicator of growth: after scoring, they did not sit back – they kept pushing, with a flurry of strong chances coming in the first half. For the second successive game, England were denied a penalty that arguably would have been given had VAR been in operation, and the half finished 1-0 to the hosts.

Where fans and Wiegman will be particularly impressed is that in the second half, England did not allow themselves to falter in the same way as they had the previous week against Portugal. The battle was fought for the entire 95 minutes, by every player on the pitch.

The last time Spain failed to score a goal was in August 2024, in the Olympic bronze medal match against Germany. Since then, they have scored 14 goals in five games, showing more ruthlessness in front of goal.

Whilst Spain lacked this ruthlessness at Wembley, they did have their chances – 20 shots to England’s nine – however most of their chances either flew over the bar or were blocked by an impressive England defence. England were more clinical, with six of their shots being on target, and they forced Catalan goalkeeper Cata Coll into action more than once.

The bigger picture

England are obviously not the finished article yet, and there are still major players to return from injury and to the starting line-up. However, beating the world champions in front of a crowd of over 45,000 at Wembley should certainly be seen as a sign that there is progress to be seen; that the Lionesses team know what they are doing, and that as fans we should trust them.

ENGLAND: Hampton, Bronze, Williamson, Bright, Charles, Clinton, Walsh, Toone, Park, Russo, James. Substitutes: Earps, Moorhouse, Morgan, Turner, Carter, Le Tissier, Mace, Blindkilde-Brown, Parris (for Russo 64’), Beever-Jones, Kelly (for Park 64’), Naz (for Toone 84’).

Scorer: Park 33’.

SPAIN: Coll, Battle, Paredes, Bonmati, Carmona, Caldentey, Pina, Aleixandri, Garcia, Mendes, Paralluelo. Substitutes: Romero, Sullastres, Garcia, Codina, Ouahabi (for Carmona 56’), Zubieta (for Aleixandri 83’), Lopez, Oroz, Martin-Prieto, Castillo (for Garcia 70’), Redondo (for Paralluelo 83’).

Referee: Tess Olofsson (SWE)

Attendance: 46,550.

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Raso strike provides consolation but Australia still fall to Colombia

Australia 1-2 Colombia

by Genevieve Henry (26/2/25)

Above: Hayley Raso. Photo: Football Australia.

From the opening minute, the Matildas looked noticeably better than they had in their previous matches in the SheBelieves Cup. Although they managed to avoid conceding right from the get go, Australia once again could not find the back of the net before their opponent and lost 2-1. The Matildas looked to be the stronger side, but Colombia were the ones that made their chances count.

Emily Van Egmond was the player of the first half, working hard in defense and attack. She made multiple vital blocks and steals when Colombia were in promising positions to score, as well as finding and placing the ball in the box for her teammates who could not convert. Van Egmond’s passing was on point and a highlight of the match.

The first ten minutes had a lot of back and forth, with Yallop and Van Egmond both nearly finding the goal and Micah palming away a good shot from Leicy Santos. Colombia kept some possession in the Matildas half, but found their joy largely in transitional play. Although Australia looked promising, they failed to make anything count in their spells of possession.

Colombia took the lead through Wendy Bonilla in her first goal for her country. After a poor pass from Katrina Gorry, Mayra Ramirez played a perfect ball across the field to the winger who found herself free. Bonilla’s shot was perfectly placed to beat Micah who ultimately had no chance.

Australia had two perfect opportunities to put themselves back in it, but took too long in the pivotal moment. Heyman had a golden chance to level the score when Van Egmond nicked the ball at the top of the box and sent it right to her feet in the 21st minute, but Heyman got stuck in indecision.

Just a few minutes later, Gorry stole the ball in prime position as Colombia were once again sloppy in the back, but sent it to Kyra Cooney-Cross whose positioning was uncharacteristically high throughout the match. The midfielder took a second too long to get her shot away and was thwarted by an excellent sliding tackle.

Australia continued to look the stronger of the teams, but couldn’t make anything of it. They connected passes much better, although it was a low bar. There were certainly glimpses of good things, especially in the midfield and defense.

The Matildas continued to have chances to score up until the half when Steph Catley delivered an excellent corner that ended up on the head of Clare Hunt, who had her effort tipped just wide by Giraldo.

Ellie Carpenter, who was finding a lot of joy down the right flank, was unfortunately forced off right before half with injury, allowing Kaitlyn Torpey to make her first appearance of the tournament.

Tom Sermanni made two changes at the half, bringing on Caitlin Foord and Tash Prior in the places of Heyman and Catley. Both proved to be excellent substitutions, providing energy and stability in the second half.

Australia had another big chance missed through Cooney-Cross in the 51st minute, when the midfielder found herself once again in an unfamiliar position and unable to make the hard work of Raso’s run and perfect cross pay off. A few minutes later, Foord had her first opportunity of the match that saw an impressive shot fly just wide.

A theme of this match was the Australian players who needed to prove themselves stepping up and playing well. Hunt looked like the player the country fell in love with during the world cup again, Van Egmond was reminiscent of her younger self, and Charli Grant had her best game in a good while.

Australia finally found the goal they had been chasing through Raso, when she controlled Grant’s cross beautifully and pushed it through a few Colombian defenders. While the goal took a big deflection, it was all the Matildas needed for a brief sigh of relief.

Colombia took the lead again with a lucky goal as Catalina Usme’s shot took a big deflection, leaving Micah powerless. Usme was completely unmarked at the top of the box, with the brief lapse in concentration by the midfield and defense making Australia pay.

The Matildas continued to work away, having several efforts look promising as the clock ticked away. Fowler created a few good chances, finding her feet more in this match than in the previous two.

Ultimately, Colombia were the team that made their chances count. Their game management was impressive as they held on and proved they believed more.

It was not the result Australia wanted to cap off a thoroughly disappointing tournament, but it was a much better game on all accounts. The defense looked much stronger, with Hunt and Micah both having great performances that should cement their roles as starters. The midfield and attack still has work to do when it comes to shots on goal and capitalizing on errors, but the build-up play was far better.

Teams: COLOMBIA (4-3-3): Giraldo, Guzman, Caracas, Alvarez, Quejada, Martinez, Usme, Ramirez, Santos, Bonilla, Caicedo. Substitutes: Agudelo, Tapia, Arias, Montoya, Restrepo, Reyes, Pavi, Torres, Chacon.

Scorers: Bonilla 15’, Usme 73’.

AUSTRALIA (4-2-3-1): Micah, Carpenter, Hunt, Catley, Grant, Gorry, Cooney-Cross, Emily Van Egmond, Raso, Yallop, Heyman. Substitutes: Arnold, Kennedy, Fowler, McNamara, Prior, Murphy, Torpey, Foord, Freier, Galic, Lincoln.

Scorer: Raso 69’.

Referee: Katja Koroleva (USA)

Attendance: 10,072.

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Matildas improve but not enough

Australia 1-2 Colombia

Above: Hayley Raso celebrates her goal. Photo: Football Australia

Australia has ended the 2025 SheBelieves Cup winless, after going down to Colombia two goals to one in their final match of the tournament.

Although it was a better performance from the Matildas and they looked more like the Matildas side of old, it was not enough as goals to Wendy Bonilla and Catolina Usmeultimately saw the Colombians get over the line. Hayley Raso did score a stellar equaliser halfway through the second half, but it was cancelled out minutes later in heat breaking fashion.

It was an energetic start to the match for both sides, with plenty of chances in front of goal.

From an Australian perspective, Kyra Cooney-Cross was playing a higher role than she normally does which was proving a successful decision, while Emily van Egmond and Tameka Yallop both had shots that went agonisingly wide.

Meanwhile Myra Ramirez and Linda Caicedo were unsurprisingly both proving very dangerous options for Colombia, with Caicedo in particular sneaking past the Australian defence on a number of occasions.

However Colombia’s chances were looking more dangerous than Australia’s, and were rewarded in the 15th minute when Ramirez executed the perfect switch and found Bonilla open on the other side of the field, who then rocketed a shot past Tegan Micah and straight into the back of the net.

The Australians were spending a lot more time in their attacking final third then they have in other matches this tournament but like those other matches, getting shots away and especially on target continued to be a problem the Australians could not fix.

Although Bonilla’s goal was ultimately the only one in the first half and the Matildas had been less blown off the park than they did in the first too matches, there was still some serious concerns for the Matildas to fix before the second half.

The evenness of the half time stats accurately reflected what had been happening out on the field.

Colombia only had about 8% more of the possession and only one more shot on goal than the Matildas, but Colombia finished the half with the two shots on target, while Australia did not record any.

Proceedings were free flowing early in the second half, with both sides having an even amount of time in attack. Up one end it was Raso looking the most dangerous while up the other end Bonilla was continuing to cause plenty of headaches for the Matildas’ defenders.

Raso was eventually able to work herself into a more central position and was rewarded after she danced around a number of defenders and slotted through the equaliser in the 69th minute. It may have taken a deflection on the way through, but it was still just reward for the hardworking Raso.

Heartbreakingly, not even five minutes later Colombia took the lead back after a long bomb from Usme deflected off the back of a Matildas defender and over the head of Micah.

Despite what the scoreline was showing, it was a more competitive effort from the Matildas. The defence was looking more solid and confident than it had all tournament, and the side’s attacking play was looking more threatening.

The Matildas kept peppering the Colombian goal but no matter how hard they tried that second equalising goal remained elusive, and as such the Matildas ended the tournament with a third straight loss.

Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-2-3-1): Micah, Heyman, Hunt,Catley, Van Egmond, Yallop, Raso, Gorry, Carpenter, Grant, Cooney-Cross. Substitutes: Arnold, Murphy, Fowler,McNamara, Heatley, Torpey, Kennedy, Lincoln, Prior, Foord,Galic, Freier.

Scorers: Raso 69’

COLOMBIA (4-2-3-1): Giraldo, Guzman, Caracas, Alvarez, Quejada, Martinez, Usme, Santos, Bonilla, Caicedo, Ramirez. Substitutes: Agudelo, Tapia, Arias, Baron, Arias, Montoya, Restrepo, Reyes, Pavi, Torres, Chacon.

Scorers: Bonilla 15’, Usme 73’

Referee: Katja Koroleva (USA)

Attendance: 10,072.

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Hahn seals Ferns win in the dying minutes

Costa Rica 0-1 New Zealand

by Jonathon Hagger (26/2/25)

Above: Maja Hahn (centre) celebrates her winning goal for New Zealand in Costa Rica earlier today. Photo: Photosport NZ.

A goal two minutes from the end of regular time in the second half sealed an excellent win for New Zealand in their second and final international in Costa Rica.

After the previous draw between the two sides, the respective head coaches took the opportunity to give some of their players in the wider squad minutes to play on a warm night in San Jose.

Industrious challenges on the left-hand side from Costa Rica did a good job of closing down the Ferns attack. New Zealand demonstrated their intent to use the entire width of the pitch when attacking.

A well-weighted long pass down the right-hand side, cleared the midfield defensive line of the Ferns, finding Priscilla Chinchilla who was well able to beat the defending player. A pass into the Ferns goal area found the head of the striker, Maria Salas, but the header was tipped over the crossbar by Victoria Esson, the Ferns’ goalkeeper. In contrast to the previous match, the visiting defenders increased their effort to get back into defensive position and closed out any empty space.

Sunderland’s Katie Kitching as the appointed free-kick taker did a superb job of placing the ball right on the spot for her players. The Ferns now have at least two players who have demonstrated excellence in taking free kicks being Kitching and Michaela Foster who also plays in the North-East in England’s second tier, for Durham.

Young gun Milly Clegg displayed a lot of confidence in taking shots on goal, both sighted and unsighted. In the past the players would have been more likely to lay off the pass to someone else however Clegg showed that she is willing to have a go. She also showed some fancy footwork on a number of occasions. Skills that she has been developing while playing in the USA.

**Above:** Milly Clegg (9) on the attack for the Football Ferns. **Photo:** Photosport NZ.

The Ferns could have opened the scoring in the 24^th minute if they had a little more luck. With the ball being hoisted into the Costa Rican goal area, two attackers were waiting to pounce however, unfortunately for Clegg the ball travelled just millimetres in front of her going out for a goal kick.

On the other side, left-back player Maria Coto, was superb and kept New Zealand’s defenders working hard to shut her down. Coto demonstrated lovely footwork and was very sure when in possession of the ball.

A free kick was awarded to Costa Rica in the 31st minute following an accidental handball by a Ferns defender just outside the goal box and the resulting well-curved shot required Esson to put all her goalkeeper skills to work.

Costa Rica repeatedly demonstrated their prowess in cutting through the Ferns’ defenders on the left-hand side in the first half. Repeated attacks and precision passes down the flank found attacking players in the open. Whereas the defensive work being done on the other side of the pitch by New Zealand was much tighter, giving Costa Rica no way through.

The second half played out in the same way as the first half with both teams competing strongly but not being able to find the breakthrough. Costa Rica’s well disciplined formation smothered the Ferns’ attack. The visitors played constructive football, using the entire width of the pitch, but couldn’t capitalise as they struggled to complete their final passes.

The 60^th minute saw an excellent opportunity for Costa Rica to score on the back of smart pass out to the left-hand wing, a great one-v-one battle and the striker being perfectly placed inside the goal area. Esson made two outstanding saves denying the goal-scoring opportunity.

The winning goal of the match came in the 88^th minute courtesy of an assist from Macey Fraser whose slick footwork created time for Hahn to unleash a rocket of a shot from the top of the goal box sending the ball into the back of the net, beating the outstretched arm of the goalkeeper.

**Above:** Football Ferns’ forward and series standout player, Katie Kitching, who plays for Sunderland in the Championship. **Photo:** Photosport NZ.

Key observations.

A number of individual Costa Rican players made their mark on the match including Alexandra Pinell and Coto. Their style of play is disciplined and constructive. It would be good in future for the players to demonstrate the flair that is often associated with the Central American style.

That flair was fleeting in this match and it may have been advantageous to have displayed it in that it may have been more than the Ferns could handle given the players are based mostly in teams playing a European style.

The chemistry in the Football Ferns team was much more evident in match two. The new formation and intent shown by the players, under the guidance of interim coach Michael Mayne, was very positive.

In the first match, the Ferns resorted to their old tactics of kicking the ball long and hoping for the best. In the second match, the play was much more constructive and disciplined. The use of the entire width of the pitch was great to watch. Many New Zealand supporters will be very pleased to see a new style of play on display being assertive and much more attacking.

Teams: COSTA RICA (4-4-2): Bermudez, Bonilla, Coto, Benavides, Coto, Blanco, Pinell, Valenciano, Alvarado, Barrientos (84’), Chinchilla, Salas. Substitutes used: Morales, Barahona.

NEW ZEALAND (3-4-1-2): Esson, Bunge (65’), Taylor, Clegg (55’), Longo (65’), Anton, Riley, Neville, Foster, Kitching, Hand (55’). Substitutes used: Fraser (55’), Brown (55’), Hahn (65’), Moore (65’), Pijenenberg (78’),

Scorer: Hahn 88′.

Referee: Merlin Soto (HON)

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Wiegman MD-1 Press Conference: “We are not playing football to beat the critics”

Above: Sarina Wiegman and Alessia Russo speak to media at Wembley Stadium Image: Catherine MacKenzie for Impetus

Twenty-four hours away from facing World Champions Spain, Sarina Wiegman and Alessia Russo spoke of the development of the women’s game and the need for fans to realise that there are no easy games anymore.

This evening, England’s Lionesses face a familiar foe: the team that beat them 1-0 in a close World Cup final in 2023. That day was bittersweet for Lioness fans, players and staff alike: the first world cup final appearance for a senior England team since 1966 was a cause for major celebration. However, the result did not go England’s way on the day – despite a penalty save from Mary Earps that solidified her as the world’s best goalkeeper.

Although not a major tournament final, the game will feel pressured in a different way. England and Spain both start the game in relatively shaky form; Spain conceded two to Belgium last time out, rescuing a win in stoppage time, and England drew 1-1 with Portugal in a mixed performance.

Ahead of this evening’s match, England head coach Sarina Wiegman and player Alessia Russo spoke to media at Wembley Stadium. A relief for England fans will be that Lucy Bronze, subbed off at half time against Portugal as a precaution, is fit for the game.

Asked about England’s current form and the criticism they have received over recent months, Wiegman reiterated that “we are aware of that” but that they “try to play our best every single game”, reflecting that since the introduction of the Nations League, “no game is going to be easy anymore, the world has changed. We are adapting.”

Is revenge part of the equation?

Russo and Wiegman were also asked if the game provided an opportunity for revenge. Wiegman was emphatic with her reply: “no, I don’t see it as revenge, I just see it as another game”. Perhaps a key part this message is about the need for realistic expectations. Since winning the Euros and reaching the world cup final, England have struggled to live up to the expectations of the media and public.

This is in part due to the growth of women’s football. It has developed rapidly in this time, both in terms of investment and technical ability, and it is not as easy to dominate an opponent anymore.

For her part, Russo spoke of the new talent in this Lionesses squad, suggesting that the inclusion of new players brings with it a “new opportunity” to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the world.

The need for social justice

The duo were inevitably also asked about recent news that Luis Rubiales has been found guilty of the sexual assault of Spanish player Jenni Hermoso, but acquitted of coercion. Wiegman has been a consistent supporter of the Spanish team in their quest for justice – even dedicating her UEFA Coach of the Year award to the Spanish players in 2023. She reiterated today that Spain are showing “resilience and bravery”, and that “we have to keep telling the world that we stand in solidarity with them”.

Russo echoed this sentiment. “We have stood in solidarity with them since it began”, adding that “it’s a testament to the players to speak out but still keep performing at the level they are”.

Both Wiegman and Russo spoke of the need for these events to be instigators of change, and their hope that in the future, discussions such as these would not require time in a space for football.

The bigger picture

During the conference, it did not go amiss that the two teams involved are likely favourites for gold in the European Championships this summer. Whilst this Nations League has the ultimate goal of creating a more competitive environment for lower-ranked teams to grow from playing against top opposition, it brings with it the opportunity for blockbuster fixtures that are competitive but do not mean that much for the teams involved. In an era for England where criticism is rife and expectations are high, it is fitting that Wiegman commented “we are not playing football to beat the critics” – her eyes are firmly on this summer.

Check out our Instagram page to see Jess Garside’s EXCLUSIVE photos for Impetus from Lionesses training at Wembley Stadium – go to @ImpetusFootball

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Young Matildas lift Four Nations Trophy after second half heroics against Thailand

By Kieran Yap 26/2/25

Above: Sienna Saveska (16) is mobbed by teammates following her third goal. Photo: Tiff Williams. Football Australia

The Young Matildas have lifted the trophy in the PacificAus Four Nations Tournament following a 5-2 win over Thailand U20’s in Canberra. A hatrick to Sienna Saveska combined with goals to Peta Trimis and Caley Tallon-Henniker settled the match despite the brace from Thailand captain Maddie Casteen.

Korby Babington named a strong lineup for the final game of the window. The Young Matildas have scored freely against Vanuatu and The Solomon Islands, but Thailand’s Under 20 side would be their toughest test yet.

Sydney FC star Indiana dos Santos wore the armband, while Saveska returned to the starting lineup, with Peta Trimis also named in an impressive looking attack.

Australia hit the scoreboard in style with a 10^th minute strike. Zara Kruger lofted a perfect pass over the Thailand defence, and Saveska’s deft volleyed touch curled the ball around the goalkeeper.

The game was fiercely contested in the middle of the pitch, and while the Young Matildas preferred to retain possession where possible, Thailand looked dangerous on the break.

A terrific solo goal from Casteen levelled the scores in the 19^th minute, The North Carolina Courage Academy prospect drove in from the right flank and fired into the net from a seemingly impossible angle.

Dos Santos and Saveska combined in the 27^th minute to regain the lead for Australia. Saveska’s cross into the box dipped troublingly for the Thailand defence and Australia had a penalty for a handball. Saveska scored her second of the game with a cooly taken spot kick.

A cross from deep caused problems for Australia and Casteen had her brace from another composed and powerful finish. The scores were 2-2 going into half time but not before a scare for Australia as Rinyaphat Moondong won possession in attack. Her shot looked goal bound until The Young Matildas scrambled it off the line.

Opportunities were scarcer in the second half, Thailand’s press made it difficult for Australia to build from the back and The Young Matildas midfield strength like life difficult for the visitors to counterattack.

Trimis broke the deadlock in the 70^th minute when her low, hard effort squirmed under the goalkeeper to make it 3-2 to Australia.

The best was still to come from Australia and Saveska brought up her hatrick with a spectacular goal. Maddie Caspers’ flicked on header bounced nicely for the Wanderers forward who unleashed a dipping volley of pure precision into the far corner of the net.

That made the score 4-2 and Thailand starting to surge forward while leaving more space at the back. Claire Adams movement put her into a great scoring position but her shot was scuffed wide.

Caley Tallon-Henniker scored the fifth goal in the final seconds on the match when she finished off a flowing end to end move by Australia.

Ilona Melegh’s goal kick started a swift move that sliced open Thailand’s structure, Caspers, Dos Santos and Talia Younis all combined before Adams’s perfect cross was tapped home by Tallon-Henniker .

Late goals have become a habit o this team during this tournament, but this may have been the best of the lot and put an exclamation point on an excellent performance from Australia’s Under 20 side.

“It’s a good feeling to get a hatrick, said Saveska after lifting the trophy.

“But the performance out there by the girls was amazing and I think we stuck to our plan.

“We knew Thailand was a great team so it was good to get the win in the end.”

The three goals made Saveska the tournament’s leading scorer with six in total. But her focus remained firmly on the team. There is a strong sense of pride that this squad has managed to play so cohesively despite limited time to prepare.

“We’ve had a week and a bit to gel as a team and I think we’ve done just that,” continued Saveska .

“On and off the field we’ve been amazing and tonight shows that against a good squad like Thailand.”

The three wins in three games, all while rotating the squad as often as possible has meant that interim coach Kory Babington has made a strong impression in the role. The players spoke of how his half time encouragement lead to a much stronger performance after the break.

“He’s a great guy and a great coach,” said Saveska.

“I think he deserves a good rap. He’s worked pretty hard and to come and slot in for Leah (Blayney) has been pretty good for him and he’s produced.”

Babington clearly enjoyed his fist time in charge of a national team, and said the tournament pointed to an exciting future for Australian football.

“It’s fantastic,’ he told the media.

“There’s 26 here, we had another four identified as well. We had seven make their debut’s this week, six are still eligible for the Junior Matildas.

“So there’s a lot of depth there across the different age groups. You saw the quality in some of the goals there, a lot of these players have big futures.”

Babington has potentially hut his hand up to continue in the role permanently after this camp, and he says he was aiming to continue the good work put in place by his predecessor.

“I’ve really enjoyed it. Leah left a very good system in place, processes and things like that.

“She did a great job with the girls when she was here. Carrying on from that has been an honour to lead a national team.

“The staff have been fantastic and all contributed. I’d like to thank them for that and Football Australia as well.”

Peta Trimis score the goal to put Australia ahead. She was dangerous in the first half, but deadly in the second. Her pace constantly troubled the Thailand defence and her workrate never ceased, she seemed to thrive on the physicality of the contest at its toughest too.

“We never lost belief,” the playmaker told the media.

“We kept pushing and to get that goal in that stage was a really good feeling for me and to step up for the girls.

“The whole week has gone really well. We’ve been training together only for this week but we’ve really gelled quickly and there’s so much talent coming through so I’m really proud of the girls.”

Trimis starred at the 2024 Asian Cup, and went to the U20 World Cup in Colombia as a result. Although she is still 18, she has extensive experience as a Young Matilda and is eager to pass that on to her new teammates for this World Cupo cycle.

“I’m usually one of the younger girls in the team so to be one of the oldest now, I think it’s a big role for me to step up and help the girls grow and I’m really proud of that.”

This tournament was a successful one for The Young Matildas, although the first two games were made to look easy as Australia ran up the scorelines, when they were faced with a tough, organized and dangerous opponent they rose to the occasion and still put on a show for the home crowd.

There is style in this squad. There is flair, talent and tactical astuteness. The future is bright, and it is very exciting to see where this team can go over the next two years.

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Matildas improve but suffer defeat to new look USWNT

USA 2-1 Australia

By Kieran Yap 23/2/25

Above: Wini Heatley for Australia. Photo:Michael Christy/Football Australia)

The Matildas have responded in encouraging fashion against an inexperienced but talented USA with a 2-1 loss.

Lynn Biyendolo opened the scoring in the first minute for the USWNT with Michelle Cooper doubling the advantage after half time. Michelle Heyman pulled one back for Australia in the final ten minutes, but The Matildas could not find an equaliser.

Australia arrived at the State Farm Stadium in Arizona looking to restore from wounded pride after a comprehensive loss to Japan in game one. In that match, The Matildas could barely get a foothold in the game, and failed to test the Japanese defence while struggling to contain their attack. Before this game, The Nadeshiko put another four goals past Colombia in a display that looks as exciting as it is frightening ahread of next year’s Asian Cup.

Tom Sermanni indicated at the start of the She Believes Cup that he would rotate this squad over the three games, and made some tactical changes after the game one loss. Steph Catley moved to centre back, Alanna Kennedy shifted to her preferred role on the right, Charli Grant came into left back and Wini Heatley partnered Kyra Cooney-Cross in midfield.

Up front, Holly McNamara started as the central striker, flanked by Hayley Raso and Caitlin Foord. Teagan Micah started in goal.

The opening goal was team effort, both for the USA and for Australia. The American kicked off the game in top gear and sliced through the Australian midfield and defence before teeing up Biyendolo for an easy finish in the six yard box.

Despite, the earliest of setbacks, Australia settled into to contest. Heatley provided an effective midfield screen to protect the back four and although they were vulnerable on the counter attack, Australia looked much more comfortable than they did in game one.

Crosses from Ellie Carpenter and Grant threatened the American defence, and Holly McNamara stayed central to occupy the US centre back, allowing Raso and Foord to occasionally have one-on-one opportunities.

Australia were spared a second goal against them by the offside flag, but were not out of the contest by the half time whistle.

The USA scored their second after the hour mark. Claire Hutton bisected the Australia defence with a sharp decisive pass through the middle and Cooper finished the move after the initial shot by Ally Sentor was scuffed.

Australia gave themselves a lifeline in the 80^th minute when Cooney-Cross’s long pass released Raso on the right. The Tottenham winger whipped in an early ball that Michelle Heyman met at full pace and with a nodded finish to make it 2-1.

The second goal would not come, but although this was another loss for Australia, it was a far more encouraging display.

The move of Catley to central defence helped steady the ship, and put the skipper in a more influential position. The benefit of having a left footed player on one side and a right footed centre back on the other were visibly obvious with and without the ball.

Heatley continues to convince as a defensive option both in midfield as as part of a back four. Australia has long needed a specialist ball-winner in the centre of the park to help the defence and allow Cooney-Cross to play with more attacking intent.

The Arsenal midfielder was terrific in a game with little space and her long passing continues to be an asset that Australia can reply on.

There was a lot to like about this performance, but against a USWNT with an average age of 24, it might be of some concern that The USA began their rebuilt less than a year ago and already look to haver lapped Australia in that department. However, we still do not know if a squad regeneration is part of the plan, and probably won’t until the new permanent coach is found.

Australia continue to bring in new faces. Laini Freier stepped onto the pitch for the first time, as did Alana Murphy. The Victory maestro is one of the real success stories of the development pathways in Australian Football. Murphy has risen from the Victorian NTC and Victory Elite Girls Program to being a train-on with the Young Matildas at the 2022 U20 World Cup. She established herself as a senior A-League midfielder and became a vital part of the Young Matildas as they dominated Asian Cup qualifying before finishing third in the tournament itself.

This debut has been a long time coming, and it will be exciting to see more of Australia’s best youngsters getting opportunities at senior level.

This was an improved performance by The Matildas against a USA squad hungry to prove themselves and with intense competition for places in the lineup.

The game against Colombia will tell us more about where this squad is and where it may be headed.

Teams: USA (4-2-3-1): McGlynn, G Thompson, Sams, Davidson, Dunn, Albert, Hutton, A Thompson, Shaw, Sears, Williams. Substitutes: Mckeown, Sentnor, Coffee, Cooper, Ryan, Fox, Campbell, Nighswonger, Heaps, Yohannes, Sonnett, Macario

Scorers: Williams 1’ Cooper 68’

AUSTRALIA (4-2-1-3): Micah, Carpenter, Kennedy, Catley, Grant, Heatley, Cooney-Cross, Fowler, Raso, Foord, McNamara. Substitutes: Arnold, Heyman, Gorry, Hunt, Prior, Murphy, Torpey, Van Egmond, Freier, Yallop, Galic, Lincoln.

Scorer: Heyman 80’.

Referee: Amairany Garcia (MEX).

Attendance: 23,503.

Riley equaliser earns Ferns a draw in Costa Rica

Costa Rica 1-1 New Zealand

by Jonathon Hagger (23/2/25)

Above: New Zealand captain Annalie Longo (right) battles for possession in Costa Rica last night. Photo: NZ Football.

A goal from Crystal Palace’s Indiah-Paige Riley just before the break ensured that New Zealand took a draw from the first of two encounters with Costa Rica during this international window.

Costa Rica assembled a confident and talented team to play two international friendly fixtures against the higher-ranked team of New Zealand. While a lot of the players may not have seen before outside of Central America, they impressed with their speed and precision.

A refreshed squad of players for the New Zealand Football Ferns was assembled for these two games in Costa Rica, giving a group of up and coming players a chance to test themselves. The end result of a draw was fair to both teams.

It was the Football Ferns who went on the attack in the early stages with Costa Rica patiently absorbing the pressure. New Zealand looked very confident on the ball and maintained possession well for long periods. That wasn’t to last though as a well-drilled Costa Rican team soon showed what they are capable of.

The first of many breakthrough runs by the hosts occurred in the 11^th minute after an uncleared corner landed at their feet. With a completely clear pitch in front of them, Herrera made it all the way to just outside the goal area where she unleashed a shot. The Ferns goalkeeper Victoria Esson made the first of her numerous great saves in the match. In the next three minutes, the shot-stopper was called on again and again as Costa Rica searched for their opening goal.

The first goal of the match was scored by Central American hosts at a time when the match felt like a stalemate. A swift throw-in and speed through the middle of the pitch into open space, found Priscilla Chinchilla in a one-on-one against the goalkeeper. A lovely shot off the outside of the attacker’s boot rolled easily into the bottom right-hand corner of the net. Advantage Costa Rica.

**Above:** New Zealand midfield talent, Macey Fraser surges through the Costa Rica midfield. **Photo:** NZ Football.

The Ferns immediately re-engaged their attacking strategy and set about attempting to score. While New Zealand had a good amount of possession they were unable to make their passes stick when needed down inside the Costa Rica half. The Ferns employed a tactic of attacking far more directly, attempting to shoot before the opposition had an opportunity to set themselves.

When they did have time to set themselves, Costa Rica exhibited excellent structure in defence, quickly transitioning into a 4-5-1 formation, reminiscent of the best teams in the world.

Esson demonstrated why she is the Ferns’ number one goalkeeper when one of the Costa Rican midfielders played a beautiful pass directly into the path of her quickly advancing striker moving at pace, just right of the goal in the 28^th minute. A well placed knee by Esson deflected the ball away, denying a goal.

Kelli Brown really threw herself into the action for New Zealand throughout first half, making a strong showing that she has more than earned her first international call-up.

New Zealand levelled matters in the 45th minute. It began from Kitching’s free-kick which ended up hitting the bar, and in the immediate follow-up play, Indiah-Paige Riley, launched a magnificent shot on goal from wide out on the right hand wing that sailed past the goalkeeper.

The second half started in favour of Costa Rica as they repeatedly beat the defensive efforts of the Ferns, creating wide open space for the attacks to launch. Of concern for the visitors was the inability of their defenders to turn and get back into position. Playing with three defenders requires the midfield to be able to turn and go but the speed of the midfield players was unable to compete with against speedy opposition.

At the front of the field, Hand reasserted the reason why she is a go to selection. Her excellent shot in the 53^rd minute required the Central American’s goalkeeper, Salera, to act quickly and responsively.

The next major talking point came in the 68^th minute as the Ferns defenders needlessly coughed up possession just outside the goal area. A shot on goal by Costa Rica was unable to finished off as the goalkeeper, Esson, once again managed to get her fingers on the ball and guided it away safely.

**Above:** Indiah-Paige Riley (20) on the break for the Football Ferns last night. **Photo:** NZ Football.

The substitution change with Hahn making her debut for the Ferns in the 66^th minute, added spark the visitors’ midfield. Her ability to both stand strong as well as twist into space, bamboozled the defenders. Far more creative play came through as her ability to slip into open spaces came to the fore, giving more time for Riley and Hand to setup to shoot.

With full time approaching, neither team were happy to settle for a draw and both teams increased the intensity in the closing stages of regular time. True to the rest of the match, while the Ferns dominated field position, Costa Rica’s defensive structure was well able to shut down the New Zealand attacks.

An acknowledgment of the referee Astrid Garmajo of Guatemala, who did an excellent job. The calls made for and against both teams were fair and equal.

Key observations:

Costa Rica are a very good in transition. They are fast and have the ability to control the ball while moving at pace, repeatedly catching the opposition off guard. Their defensive style is very sound.

The Football Ferns looked great at the front, average in the midfield and shaky at the back when countering Costa Rica’s attacks from broken play. All the Ferns wing players were impressive but the team lacked the ability to break down the Costa Rican midfield in the second half, resorting to the old habit of going long and hoping the attacking upfield player can make use of the ball.

Teams: COSTA RICA (3-4-2-1): Solera, Guillen, Bianco, Benavides, Coto, Pinell (80’), Chinchilla, Alvarado, Barrientos (84’), Chinchilla, Salas. Substitutes used: Barahona (84’), Morales (80’), Estrada (84’), Barahona (46’).

Scorer: Chinchilla (20’)

NEW ZEALAND (4-3-3): Esson, Bunge (66’), Taylor, Fraser (79’), Longo, Anton, Riley, Blake (45’), Foster (66’), Kitching, Brown (45’). Substitutes used: Hand (45’), Neville (45’), Hahn (66’), Moore (66’), Elliot (79’).

Scorer: Riley 45’.

Referee: Astrid Garmajo (GUA).

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