City continue winning streak with second half comeback over Phoenix

Melbourne City 2-1 Wellington Phoenix

By Isabelle Campbell 28/12/2024

Above: Laura Hughes scores the winner for Melbourne City. Photo: Adrian Geremia for Impetus.

Melbourne City, the current frontrunners in the Ninja A-League, extended their impressive start to the season with a second-half comeback in their meeting with Wellington Phoenix at ctrl:cyber Pitch this afternoon.

City came out on top the last time these two sides met, winning 3-1. Mariana Speckmaier scored Phoenix’s only goal that day, but after switching teams, she’s now leading City’s attack with four goals to her name already this season.

The game started with plenty of energy, and it didn’t take long for things to heat up. Wellington’s Alivia Kelly was shown a yellow card in just the 11th minute after bringing down Lourdes Bosch. City were awarded a free kick, however it didn’t lead to much for the home side. Moments later, Bosch was charging towards goal, only to be called offside.

City continued to press and earned themselves another free kick, this time looking much more dangerous. TJ Vlajnic whipped the ball into the box, picking out Bryleeh Henry, whose shot went just wide. It was déjà vu shortly after when City won another free kick from essentially the same spot. Once again, Vlajnic sent it in for Henry, who narrowly missed the target.

The game remained physical as Wellington kept giving away fouls. Phoenix didn’t create much early on, but right before halftime, Alyssa Whinham finally tested Melbourne goalkeeper Malena Mieres with a shot that was comfortably saved. That seemed to spark something in Phoenix, and just a minute later, Olivia Fergusson unleashed a rocket to score her first career goal, giving the visitors a surprise 1-0 lead.

The second half began with another strong attempt from Whinham, who fired a shot from outside the box that looked destined for goal. However, Mieres made a smart save, keeping the game level. The match then entered a quiet period, with neither side creating any real threats on goal.

It wasn’t until the 67th minute that things began to shift gears. Vlajnic sent a ball flying into the box, heading for goal in its own right, but it ultimately went down as an own goal for Wellington’s Alivia Kelly, putting city back in the game. The level scoreline didn’t last long as just two minutes later, City found themselves on top. Laura Hughes met a cross from Vlajnic and powered a header past the goalkeeper, scoring her third goal of the season and making it 2-1.

Vlajnic was later substituted off after picking up an injury, with Karly Roestbakken replacing her. Phoenix pressed forward in search of an equalizer, and in the final minutes of the game, Emma Main took a shot toward goal, but Mieres was quick to react and tipped it over the bar.

Despite five minutes of added time, Wellington couldn’t find themselves another goal, and the match ended 2-1 in favor of the home side. City’s win extended their unbeaten streak, while Phoenix were left to reflect on a valiant effort that fell just short.

Next up, Melbourne City will travel to take on Central Coast Mariners and look to extend their winning run, while Wellington Phoenix will return home to host Perth Glory.

Teams: MELBOURNE CITY (4-3-3): Mieres, Apostolakis, Stott, Otto, Vlajnic, Davidson, Hughes, McKenna, Bosch, Henry, Harvey. Substitutes: Barbieri, McNamara, Pollicina, Roestbakken, Speckmaier.

Goals: Kelly (OG) 67’, Hughes 69’.

WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-1-4-1): Vilão, Jaber, Barry, Kelly, McCutcheon, Jale, Fergusson, Whinham, Brazendale, Longo, Wall. Substitutes: Danieli, McMeeken, Elliott, Tanaka, Main.

Goals: Fergusson 37’.

Referee: Kelly Jones.

Attendance: 421.

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Sydney stay bottom after Melbourne’s Victory

Sydney FC 0-1 Melbourne Victory

by Emma Burke (28/12/24)

Above: Sydney FC’s Princess Ibini – her team were unable to make the breakthrough in today’s game. Photo: Sydney FC.

Melbourne Victory’s 1-0 win over Sydney FC takes the club to second on the table, and works as a fitting farewell to defender Beattie Goad, who played her last game of professional football in this fixture.

The one and only goal of the game came early to Victory in the 14th minute, a penalty converted expertly by Alana Jancevski with her left foot, beating a diving Tahlia Franco in goal.

Despite having the majority of control of the ball throughout the game, Victory were unable to find a second goal. 

They had multiple attempts on goal during open play, as did their opponents but neither side was able to convert them.

Sydney FC spent the rest of the game rebuffing attack after attack on their goal, while trying to work their way into the game and even the injection of players such as Mackenzie Hawkesby and Shea Connors couldn’t help them in their quest to find an equaliser.

Fittingly, the final kick of the game fell to Beattie Goad and in clearing away a final attempt on goal by Sydney, signed off her professional career with another win to her name, and 75 appearances in the A-League Women.

Sydney FC will continue their frankly disastrous season at home, where they will host top of the table Melbourne City, while Melbourne Victory will look ahead to hosting the Western Sydney Wanderers on 5th January, with a very large hole to fill in their left-back position.

To view the EXCLUSIVE photo galleries of Impetus’ Kris Goman and Ryan Miller-Woods from Allianz Stadium, visit our Instagram page – @ImpetusFootball

Teams: SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Franco, Tumeth, Tobin, Thompson, Bryson, Caspers, Chauvet, Johnson, Dos Santos, Farrow, Ibini. Substitutes: Hawkesby, Connors, Lemon

MELBOURNE VICTORY (3-4-2-1):  Newbon, Bunge, Morrison, Pickett, Goad, D’Appolonia, Flannery, Jancevski, Murphy, Lowe, Chidiac. Substitutes: O’Grady, Briedis.

Scorer: Jancevski (pen) 14’.

Referee: Bec Mackie.

Attendance: 5,630.

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The Evolution of Women’s Football Kits

By Isabelle Campbell with interviews by Kieran Yap 28/12/24

Above: The 2019 Matildas Kit Launch. Photo: Nike.

Impetus takes a look at the history and the progress of kits in women’s football. From necessity to practicality to fashion.

In recent years, women’s football has witnessed unprecedented levels of growth, and with this change came a significant transformation in attire worn by the players. Once ruled by practicality and frugality, football kits in the women’s game have transformed into stylish, performance-driven apparel that serves not only to elevate player output but also showcase identity.

To talk about the change in women’s football kits we must go back to the early days of the game. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when women initially began to play football, they were faced with challenges as you would expect, including social resistance and a lack of access to proper equipment. Female athletes were left to wear the hand-me-down uniforms of their male counterparts, this ill-fittingness affecting the comfort and performance of players.

From the 2000s onwards, women’s football kits underwent a drastic transformation, pushed on by the explosion of interest in the game. High-selling tournaments and the success of teams such as the U.S. Women’s National Team initiated a spike in demand for kits that were simultaneously stylish and functional. Seeing the revenue prospects, top brands began to invest in women’s football.

Today, modern kits are created with the input of female athletes, with emphasis on comfort, fit, and style. Both clubs and national teams alike have embraced ingenuity, bringing out fashionable and unique kits that evoke feelings for fans and their connection to the sport. Special edition kits and collaborations with designers are becoming increasingly standard, with Arsenal Women partnering up with high profile designer Stella McCartney for the first bespoke women’s team kit in the 23/24 WSL season highlighting how football apparel can contain a blend of athleticism and style.

When the Matildas kit was launched ahead of the 2019  World Cup, it was a significant moment in the sport and they were an almost instant commercial hit. What was affectionately known as the “Spew Kit” was released for sale on Tuesday morning of 2019, and all stock was exhausted by that afternoon. 

At the time, Nike described the kit as being youthful to represent the then young squad with an average age of 24, and to hark back to the 90’s with a retro feel, as that was when most of the team was born. 

“The kit is unreal, it’s such a different take on what we’ve seen in the past and we couldn’t have hoped for a better looking home jersey,” star striker Sam Kerr said at the launch.

“To have a kit designed just for the Matildas to play in, it’s a dream come true, and we are honored to be pulling on the green and gold. The socks are pretty wild too.”

Alana Kennedy was equally excited. 

“We all kind of love it, the girls already said it: it represents us really well: our individual flair.

“I love that is has a collaboration of stuff to do with France as well because it’s very specific to our World Cup and yeah I just think it’s really cool.”

The 2019 Matildas kit was made from 100%  recycled material with 12 plastic bottles used for each one. It also had the motto “Never Say Die” stitched in the back and while not every fan loved it at the time, all knew it was special and it is now fondly remembered for its significance and design. 

It was not always this way. While fans and players have become accustomed to women’s specific kits, former Matildas had much less to work with. 

Heather Reid was the Australia Team Manager in the 1980’s and was one of the people responsible for arranging kits, and making sure they were all returned after camp. It sounds like a simple enough job, but came with some surprising challenges. 

“My first engagement with the team was in 1984 when I was manager for the Matildas,” Reid tells Impetus.  

“Basically, I inherited three kit bags which contained the second hand uniforms which were used for the previous tournaments. 

“There were two adidas kits which would have been old ASF youth gear and some old Umbro kits.

“Rather naively, I didn’t fully appreciate just how important the number was on the back of the shirt to the players. 

“Unfortunately, the numbers some players wanted did not necessarily have a shirt size that fit them. 

“I seem to recall the goalkeepers preferred to use their own shirts at the time. The third hand gk kits were pretty ordinary by that stage.”

“With all best intentions, ordering shirts and short, even though you had some sort of sizing guide, they came back in all different shapes.

“It didn’t stop some players from souveniring the equipment, particularly on the trip to china in 88. The team manager at the time (Stephanie Quinn) realised there were a certain amount missing from the bags. 

“It was a very different time to now where they are getting so much gear they can give it away. We were doing the bare minimum. 

“We were using borrowed or sponsored playing strips and then trying to get tracksuits from Buffalo or Mitre.” 

One of the stories of Australian women’s football that is now folklore is that players had to sew on the coat of arms onto tracksuits before camps or tournaments. Reid explains that this was for practicality’s sake. 

With the team tracksuits sometimes arriving at the last minute (on one occasion, actually at the airport), and the coat of arms being sourced separately, everybody had to pitch in. 

“Players often talk about how they were asked to sew on the Australian badge. I remember that very clearly, having to go and out purchase the coat of arms badge and ask them to sew it on a specific space on the tracksuit.

“If they didn’t do it, I would have had to have done it 20 odd times.” 

In the years since, players have been offered more slightly more choice in their kits. While Matildas of the 90’s like Lisa Casagrande wore larger shorts below the knee through necessity, the likes of Alex Chidiac can wear them by design.

The Matildas of the 1990’s wore kits determined by the tournament that they played in. If it was a FIFA event, Soccer Australia would provide the kits. The women would be dressed in the same colours as the Socceroos.

On top of this, a kit designed by Peter Hugg of the AWSA and produced by ASIC with help from Lawrie Mckinna was the first Matildas specific strip.

Advancements in fabric engineering have played a massive role in the development of women’s football kits. Changes in materials used have led to uniforms that are lightweight, breathable and also with the durability to withstand the intensity of competitive play. Manufacturers are also focusing more heavily on sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials, these changes though small are just another step towards creating a more environmentally conscious industry.

Another change that has undoubtedly been a long time coming is that of the switch from the traditional white shorts by many clubs and national teams. This adjustment shows the growing awareness of the challenges associated with wearing white, particularly during menstruation, which has long been a concern for menstruating athletes. Teams and clubs are now opting for darker colours and more practical materials that enhance comfort and create a sense of security on the pitch.

Arsenal Women made a big move towards inclusivity recently following the news of player Amanda Ilestedt’s pregnancy, a first for the North London club. Designing a specialised pregnancy training kit specifically for those expecting is a thoughtful operation that not only supported Amanda during the term of her pregnancy in which she still trained but also sets a benchmark for the future.

As the women’s game continues to skyrocket to new heights, so too does the prospect of further innovation in kit design. Recent trends suggest a time, not so far in the future, where individualisation and diversity take primary position, with increased representation of various body types and fit preferences. The continuing growth of women’s football, propelled by increased involvement and visibility, will certainly shape the future of kit design.

The evolution of women’s football kits echoes a journey of empowerment and recognition for female athletes. From humble, practical beginnings to individuality and specifically designed attire, these kits are more than just a uniform, they tell a story of breakthrough and acknowledgement.

As the women’s game continues to thrive, we must be mindful to not take these bright and shiny new things for granted and instead recognise the battles fought and won by the pioneers of the game, honouring the part they played in building a more sustainable and inclusive future for young girls everywhere.

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Adelaide secure thrilling win over Wanderers

Adelaide United 1-0 Western Sydney Wanderers

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (27/12/24)

Above: Erin Healy (second left) celebrates her winning goal for Adelaide United. Photo: A-Leagues.

Adelaide United have prolonged their winning streak against Western Sydney Wanderers to nine games after defeating them 1-0 at Coopers Stadium today. 

Early dominance from the home side made for an exhilarating match from the first touch. An attempt from Fiona Worts almost put the hosts in the lead just five minutes in, however, Western Sydney’s Sham Khamis continued her outstanding spell of form by keeping the ball from the back of the net. It would be the first of many smart saves from the 29-year-old keeper. 

Khamis kept the match scoreless for much longer than it probably should have, considering Adelaide’s command of the pitch. 

By the 30th minute, it had become a matter of when Adelaide would score, rather than if they would score, with 10 shots on goal, against Western Sydney’s one. Despite several chances and near misses, it remained goalless at the break.

Worts was a stand-out for the South Australian side, as she has been across the A-League Women season thus far. The English attacker has a great diversity that has allowed her to create chances, while simultaneously capitalising on opportunities herself consistently. 

The 67th minute saw Erin Healy net the first and only goal of the match, putting Adelaide United in the lead, and gearing the hosts toward a well-fought win. 

Although the Reds were very clearly the dominant side for the majority of the match, it is a testament to the Wanderer’s defense that Healy’s goal was the only of the several good attempts to reach the back of the net. The strike holds great significance, as not only did it secure Adelaide’s win, but it also marked Healy’s first A-League Women goal. 

As stoppage time approached, Western Sydney Wanderers continued their defensive tactics, as Adelaide relentlessly searched for a second goal. It became quite apparent that a goal was not building for the visitors, with only a few shots, and even fewer on target. 

Although a second goal seemed imminent, the hosts ultimately could not find the back of the net again, ending the match in a well-deserved 1-0 victory over the Wanderers. 

The win marks the Reds’ ninth consecutive win over Western Sydney, and their second of the season, after they were victorious just under seven weeks ago, defeating the New South Wales side 2-0 at Wanderers Football Park. 

Adelaide United will head to Woy Woy Oval to face Central Coast Mariners next week, while Western Sydney Wanderers are back home to take on Wellington Phoenix. Both of these matches will be crucial for the respective sides with Adelaide fighting to improve their current fourth-place ranking.

Western Sydney now need to gain some points and move up the ladder out of 11th place, and the pressure will be on at home. 

Team: ADELAIDE UNITED (3-4-1-2): Jenkins, E. Hodgson, Leon, McNamara, Tonkin, Tolland, Karambasis, Dewey, Condon, Dawber, Worts. Substitutes: Grove, Bowler, Healy, Morgan, Sasaki.

Scorers: Healy 68′.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-4-1-1): Khamis, Ferris, Harrison, Matos, Bennett, Chessari, Harada, Younis, Rue, Saveska, Harding. Substitutes: Segavcic, Price, Trew, Kapetanellis, Lobo 

Referee: Isabella Mossin.

Attendance: 3,809.

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Pennock takes advantage to end Mariners’ losing run

Perth Glory 0-1 Central Coast Mariners

Report by Ben Gilby, EXCLUSIVE photography from Rob Lizzi at HBF Park (27/12/24)

Above: Central Coast Mariners celebrate Jade Pennock’s late winner. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Jade Pennock’s goal with five minutes remaining sealed an excellent win for Central Coast Mariners at HBF Park today in a game that was largely dominated by the defences.

Whilst Perth came close on several occasions, and were generally very well organised at the back, they paid the price for a momentary lapse to allow the English attacker in to claim the points for the visitors.

Glory boss Stephen Peters made three changes from the starting line-up that drew with Western Sydney Wanderers last Friday, with Izzy Dalton, Nat Tathem, and Tanika Lala coming into the side in place of injury victims Kelli Brown, Ella Abdul-Massih, and Tijan McKenna. Teen star Ischia Brooking, the league’s youngest-ever player, came in on the bench.

For the Mariners, there was just one change as Brooke Nunn came in for Shay Evans. New signing, Irish international Sarah Rowe, who is also a talented Gaelic Footballer and AFLW player, took her place among the substitutes from where she made her debut with 12 minutes remaining.

The Glory looked to impose themselves on the game from the start, focusing their attack along the left-hand flank where Tathem was pushing up from the back to combine well with Gabby Hollar to create. The latter was swapping flanks regularly, with Grace Johnston her provider along the right.

In response, the visitors were trying to maximise possession, playing patiently, often across the middle of the park to find the key to unlock the Perth defence. On 11 minutes, Nunn fed Annalise Rasmussen to crack in a shot that Casey Dumont held.

Above: Naomi Chinnama (wearing headband) gets up to send a header goalwards following Georgia Cassidy’s corner. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Glory hit back immediately with Megan Wynne taking possession towards the right hand edge of the box before laying off to Charli Wainwright. The young midfielder saw Izzy Dalton coming in behind and played the Perth co-captain in to hit a rocket from outside the box that brought a superb flying save towards the left-hand post from Sarah Langman.

Just after the quarter-hour mark, the home side pressed again and earned a corner on the right. An idiosyncratic viciously curled-in set piece from Georgia Cassidy was met by the head of Chinnama in a flashback to the defender’s first-ever A-League Women goal just under a fortnight ago, but this time, it went just over the top, looking like it took a deflection off of Mariners attacker Jade Pennock as it did so.

As the action drifted towards the half-hour, Mariners were upping the percentage of possession but were finding it hard to penetrate the well-organised Glory backline. Pennock and Rasmussen were becoming increasingly influential in this period, picking up possession in the middle of the park and driving forward, but were largely unable to break through the purple wall to get shots on target.

Controversy reigned with 10 minutes of the half remaining as Ashley Irwin put in a heavy challenge on Wynne by the touchline in front of the dugouts. The Mariners defender came off worse, but to the astonishment of the home crowd and Glory head coach Stephen Peters, no card was shown by Rebecca Durcau.

Above: Nat Tathem (purple shirt) had another hugely influential afternoon at both ends of the pitch for Perth Glory today. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

It was an unnecessary challenge at best with the Welsh international having little space to advance up the field. In the end, Irwin was forced out of the game injured as a result of her tackle.

The home side created the first chance of the second period as Hollar held off Jessika Nash before turning her and firing in a powerful shot from close range at the right hand post which Langman saved well.

Moments later, Langman was called into action again as Lala broke through in a way so familiar to NPLW WA watchers, but the Mariners’ former Perth keeper came out of her box to meet the nugget from the WA Goldfields and deny her with a perfectly timed challenge.

With 15 minutes to play, Nunn played in Pennock with a perfectly weighted pass from the middle of the park. The English attacker held off Onyi Zogg as she entered the right-hand side of the box, but placed her shot well wide of the far post.

Above: Jade Pennock (yellow shirt) takes advantage of the mix-up between Naomi Chinnama and Casey Dumont to score Central Coast Mariners’ winner. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Then, with five minutes remaining, Pennock redeemed herself. Chinnama, under pressure from the attacker looked to play the ball back to the advancing Dumont. However, the Perth defender’s touch took it away from her keeper, allowing Pennock to nip in and calmly place the ball into an open goal.

In stoppage time, the Glory had vocal appeals for a penalty when Miku Sunaga went to ground in the box after being pushed by Ray. Durcau waved play on and that, ultimately was that.

Whilst Perth came close on several occasions during the game, they continued their recent struggles to turn opportunities into goals. The build-up play remains promising, but the sharpness in front of goal remains an issue. With Sarah O’Donoghue and Kelli Brown injured, it’s not going to get any easier to solve the conundrum as the Western Australians prepare for their 4th January trip to Wellington Phoenix – the longest journey that any team undertakes in a domestic league at over 5,255 kilometres.

The Mariners’ win sees them end their run of two consecutive defeats which is a huge positive ahead of their New Year’s Eve showdown with Melbourne City. To trouble the league leaders, though, they will need to be far more incisive in attack.

For Rob Lizzi’s full series photo galleries from the game, check out our Instagram feed @ImpetusFootball

Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Dumont, Tathem, Zogg, Chinnama, Johnston, Wainwright, Cassidy, Dalton, Wynne, Lala, Hollar. Substitutes: Brooking, Foletta, Roberts, Sunaga, Templeman.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS: (4-3-3): Langman, Puxty, Irwin, Nash, Martin, Galic, Ray, Nunn, Trimis, Rasmussen, Pennock. Substitutes: Carmichael, Evans, Fuller, Quilligan, Rowe.

Scorers: Pennock 85′.

Referee: Rebecca Durcau.

Attendance: 2,464.

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Peters: “There’s a bit to look at” despite Perth’s improving performances

by Ben Gilby (24/12/24)

Above: Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters highlighted the importance of the team improving its scoring rate from open play. Image: Perth Glory.

Perth Glory has been a team steadily growing each week this season, but whilst defensively things are consistently strong, head coach Stephen Peters recognises that things still need to improve upfront.

The Glory’s last four goals have all come from set plays – two penalties, a corner, and a free-kick. Peters knows that needs to change as his side prepares for a tough challenge from Central Coast Mariners on Friday at HBF Park.

“Yes, we need to look at what we are doing in front of goal and remind them (the players) that there are various ways we can beat the keeper, but also, we probably need a bit more composure in the final third and just a little bit more support as well. That’s the next piece of the puzzle, and it’s probably the hardest piece to get right out of all of them.

“There is a bit to look at in that respect, particularly in that we are creating chances from open play…I do believe that once we start taking our chances from open play, we’ll get able to apply scoreboard pressure more consistently and get three points more consistently.”

Above: Kelli Brown attempts an over-head kick earlier this season. The former Wellington Phoenix attacker could miss the next two months with an MCL injury. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Perth’s attacking options have taken a knock with the revelation that Kelli Brown is likely to miss six to eight weeks due to a grade two MCL injury. The Kiwi joins fellow attacker, Impetus A-League Women Young Player of the Month for November Sarah O’Donoghue on the sidelines. It will mean a shake-up in selection in the immediate term, with the possibility of locally produced hot-shots getting a chance in the matchday squad.

Longer term, the Perth boss believes he may be in a position to bring in an additional player: “There is scope (to bring in someone on a temporary replacement basis). We’re definitely looking at one injury replacement, but there’s a bit that needs to be done there in terms of negotiations.”

Ella Abdul-Massih is also unavailable with a calf strain, although she has a chance of being back for the long trip to face Wellington Phoenix on 4th January. There is better news surrounding co-captain Izzy Dalton, with Peters revealing: “She is a chance. All her testing is going well this week. We’re looking at least some form of the game (for her).”

Miku Sunaga should also play on Friday after passing concussion protocols following her collision with Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Sham Khamis last week: “She answered all the protocol questions well. She’s got quite a black eye…Miku is just a brave player, she was always going to put her head there, and thankfully she did as we wouldn’t have got the penalty (otherwise). We were struggling to score from open play, so we needed that penalty to get over the line!”

Whilst it took that 96th-minute spot-kick to secure a draw at Western Sydney, Peters was at pains to point out the real character and desire shown by his team to overcome going behind with four minutes of regulation time remaining to hit back.

Above: Miku Sunaga, who has been passed fit to play on Friday after colliding with Western Sydney Wanderers goalkeeper Sham Khamis last week. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

“At nil-all, it looked like neither team was going to score, and then when they went 1-0 up we went into overdrive and had about five chances in five minutes…it was a bizarre game…

“We asked for consistency of performances during the week (leading up to the WSW game), and I actually felt we performed really well the last three weeks…and we’ve had a loss, a win, and a draw.

“I don’t think there has been much difference between the performances so it comes down to the level of the opposition on the day you are playing against them. I do believe we could have had the three points against Wanderers and we could have had a draw against (Melbourne) Victory. Overall, I think we are on the right path.”

The Western Australian side now faces a Central Coast Mariners side who have lost their last two games after a five-match unbeaten run at the start of the season. They are a club full of faces that are extremely familiar to the Perth boss.

“There’s been some very good recruiting from Emily (Husband, head coach), particularly Jade Pennock and (Brooke) Nunn…I think Izzy Gomez being out is a big out for them…she’s a very determined player.

Above: HBF Park – the location for Perth Glory’s home game with Central Coast Mariners on Friday. Photo: Perth Glory.

“It’s a group of players that I know quite well from versing Emily and those players in the New South Wales NPL, and it presents a challenge, and after losing to Western United, back-to-back losses for them, Emily will be highly motivated to put it right, and we’ve got to be put on our guard, absolutely, they’re a tough team.”

Friday sees the Glory return to HBF Park to play in a doubleheader along with the men’s side. Peters is thrilled to be heading back to the 20,500-capacity venue, having fond memories from their win over Newcastle Jets at the stadium earlier in the season.

“It was a massive high for us, it was our first points and win for the season. The whole experience was great to play at HBF, especially for the girls who haven’t done so before. The pitch was in fantastic condition, and we loved it.”

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An Ode to Goad

By Kieran Yap 23/12/24

Above: Beattie Goad drives past Cortnee Vine. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus

If Round Eight is to be Beattie Goad’s last game in the A-League women, the competition will farewell one of its most popular and most interesting players at the age of 27. She will be irreplaceable at Melbourne Victory, and her career will have been an inspiration for many others to bet on themselves.

A brief history of Goad is that she was a prodigious young playmaker at Melbourne Victory and then City before departing for the U.S College system in a move that simultaneously risked everything but had the potential to delivery anything.

It is still a path less travelled by Australian footballers. Going to the U.S removes players from the professional game and the direct supervision of Young and Senior Matildas selectors. For Goad it was the start of an adventure that took her to SV Meppen in Germany, Tenerife in Spain and three caps with the national team. Along the way she graduated from Stanford University, learned multiple languages and lived on a island that many pay good money just to visit.

Goad remains a humble, slightly enigmatic figure. She announced her retirement by Instagram story, and by many accounts it took the club by surprise even if nobody was really shocked as she leaves to continue her medical degree.

Football has allowed Goad to travel the world, pursue high level academics and represent her country. Repeatedly she has bet on herself and even when things have not worked out perfectly (she probably deserved more than three caps) she has earned more admirers along the way.

On the field, Beattie Goad is an artist. She has a mazy distinctive dribbling style and a first touch that takes her past most opponents, although she is predominantly a left sided player, she can cut inside or drive to the line to cross. This season, from left back she has become an extra midfielder at times to open up space for Alana Jancevski on the wing.

She has enviable individual talent but a strong team ethos, willing to sacrifice her best position for the good of the side. Although she was never a prolific scorer, she was capable of the spectacular and had the ability to send defences into reshuffles on the run.

In 2023, she spent the off-season in the Victorian NPLW with Bulleen and ended that season as premier. To watch her return to where she started was a joy.

Goad had played against Germany and Barcelona but she took the games against the likes of Box Hill and Southern United just as seriously, and showed them respect by showing no mercy. It was spectacular to watch her in full flight at that level, playing for the love of club and the game.

Melbourne Victory cannot replace Goad. She is a player that can fill multiple positions to an international standard and is a player that fans travel these vast lands to watch. She is the humble star of the team, a difference maker on and off the pitch, ever dependable and reliably dangerous.

Beattie Goad bet on herself and inspired thousands. Her career means the world to so many. She will retire as an A-League Women great.

More Reading: A 2021 interview with Beattie Goad before her return to Australia

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The offside call that shows the genius of Holly Mac

By Kieran Yap 23/12/24

Above: Holly McNamara. Photo: Melbourne City

Holly McNamara is undoubtedly one of Australia’s brightest talents and a non-goal against Adelaide United allowed her to show another level to her game.

When Bryleeh Henry played Holly McNamara through in on goal, it felt obvious what would happen next. The 21 year old could not be caught, she could not be stopped. Last week she hit the post, but this week… the offside flag went up.

By the time the play had stopped, McNamara was clear of her Adelaide opponent, and the shot was saved by Claudia Jenkins in any case, but this moment just as much as what followed added more to the mounting pile of evidence that she is something special.

When the next chance came, McNamara had learned and adjusted her own game just enough to make all the difference. Knowing she had the acceleration to easily outpace her opponent, she stayed visibly onside.

When the ball was on its way to Henry, Holly Mac made her move armed with what she had just learned.

The two Matildas linked up again, this time with a dinked ball over the top by Henry into space. McNamara got goal side of the defender and this time, backed her strength and positioning to hold her off.

The finish was class, but the movement, the timing of the run and where it started (behind the defender instead of on her shoulder) made certain that the flag would stay down, but the chance would still be just as good.

Does McNamara think these things through, or is it instinctive? Either possibility is just as exciting.

That she still possesses the same physical attributes and confidence despite so many knee rehabs is frankly startling. Similarly to Mary Fowler, Holly McNamara seems to be aware of exactly how much time and space she has, before anybody else. Her technique in front of goal is further enhanced by this special awareness, allowing for stylish and effective finishes.

What looks risky to us (like staying behind the centre back or lifting the ball just over an onrushing goalkeeper while aiming for the far corner of the net) is simply the best option for her just as chipping a German goalkeeper from distance is the best option for Kyra Cooney-Cross. When you have the technique, it’s not a risk.

What also makes McNamara so consistently dangerous is her trust in her teammates. An enjoyable journey through her highlight packages show that she can do it herself but she knows she doesn’t have to.

Her first A-League Women goal and her last before her most recent injuries were both very different solo efforts. However, she knew before the pass even got to Henry, that the next one would be for her.

She took off toward goal instead of demanding it to feet. Just as in the earlier play, that pass was coming, Henry has that quality and McNamara was able to make the most of it.

It is genuinely hard avoid getting too excited about this sparkling footballer. Even though to some degree she represents one of the best attacking hopes of the future, nothing is certain.

But McNamara is definitely something special, an intelligent, athletic, inventive and team orientated striker.

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Western United send Mariners to first home defeat

Central Coast Mariners 1-3 Western United

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (22/12/24).

Above: Kahli Johnson (green and black striped shirt) celebrates after scoring at Central Coast Mariners today. Photo: Western United.

Western United have hit back from their hammering against Western Sydney Wanderers last weekend to condemn Central Coast Mariners to their first home defeat of the season at Industree Group Stadium this afternoon.

The home side were hottest off the marks, from the first touch, an attempt from Shadeene Evans, which was ultimately blocked by Chloe Logarzo.

Despite the hosts’ early impact, the match remained quite uneventful, with neither side showing particular dominance. Western United did however hold a slight upper hand in terms of chances in the first half.  

Both teams took a defensive approach, with neither being able to net the first goal until quite late in the match, despite several shots on target. Chloe Lincoln’s save in the 54th minute prevented the Mariners from taking the lead when Petra Timms took advantage of Annabel Martin’s build-up to hit narrowly wide.

The scoring was opened by Western United, when a cross from half-time substitute  Kiara De Domizio, was tapped in by Kahli Johnson. The visitors increased their lead only three minutes later when Johnson netted her second goal of the match and fourth of the season. 

Following Johnson’s brace, momentum shifted in favor of the hosts, as they looked to hit back to preserve their home record. . Despite their new-found dominance, there appeared to be a disconnect, particularly in the midfield. 

Above: Grace Maher celebrates after hitting Western United’s third goal at Central Coast Mariners today. Photo: Western United.

The absence of midfielder Isabel Gomez following a knee injury in November, has highlighted weaknesses within the squad over the past few rounds, with their shift to defensive tactics often proving detrimental to their overall play. It is, however, a testament to the resilience and strength within the squad that they have quickly adjusted without a player who played such a key role in their early success this season. 

Since her transfer from Sydney FC at the start of the season, Taylor Ray has been particularly instrumental in stabilising an otherwise unsure midfield, and played a key role in this match especially, keeping the Mariners in the game despite their falling behind. 

Grace Maher netted Western United’s third goal of the match, with just three minutes left of regulation time.

Despite their dire predicament, as stoppage time approached, the hosts’ tireless approach paid off in the 89th minute, when Annalise Rasmussen got a goal back.

The match remained hard-fought until the end, however, Central Coast Mariners were ultimately beaten for the first time at home this campaign. The meeting marks a milestone for both sides, as it becomes Western United’s first away win of the season, ending their six-game winless streak on the road. 

Round Eight of the Ninja A-League will see Central Coast Mariners head to HBF Park to face Perth Glory, who currently sit just below them on eighth on the ladder, and in strong current form, making the clash quite unpredictable. 

Meanwhile, Western United will face Brisbane Roar at home. The match is set to be one of great contention, as Brisbane currently sit second on the table, just two places above their hosts. 

Teams: CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (3-4-1-2): Langman, Irwin, Nash, Martin, Pennock, Gaelic, Ray, Rasmussen, Puxty, Trimis, Evans. Substitutes: Carmichael, Fuller, Quilligan, Nunn, McMahon.

Scorer: Rasmussen 89’. 

WESTERN UNITED (4-3-3): Lincoln, Sardo, Cene, Maher, Grove, Roach, M.Taranto, Logarzo, Medwin, Johnson, Hieda. Substitutes: Dall’oste, Mihocic, De Domizio, Cortellino, Dehakis. 

Scorers: Johnson 57′, 61’, Maher 88’. 

Referee: Kelly Jones.

Attendance: TBC.

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Freiers combine to cook the Jets

Newcastle Jets 1-6 Brisbane Roar

By Kieran Yap 21/12/24

Above: Brisbane celebrate one of their six goals against Newcastle. Photo: Brisbane Roar.

Brisbane Roar have produced a statement win with a 6-1 result away to the Newcastle Jets.

Laini Freier scored her first goal and first hattrick in the A-League Women while the Roar also contributed two possibilities for goal of the round.

This was a potentially tricky trip for Brisbane. Alex Smith’s team had been playing well, but much of their winning form has been attributed to Tameka Yallop. The captain was missing from the lineup and the Jets would have been optimistic following their dramatic win against Sydney FC in Round Six.

The afternoon started brightly for Brisbane. Grace Kuilamu ran onto a long pass from Chelsea Blissett, brushed off the challenge from Tash Prior and raced in on goal. The finish matched the effort as the 17-year old rifled the ball into the roof of the net. It was a pure strikers goal, confident, explosive and composed all at once.

Newcastle levelled the scores in the 32nd minute. Ryan Campbell’s side had set up to press Brisbane and although the Roar were mostly able to play through or over it, on this occasion is paid off.

Cass Davis hooked in the eventual shot after the ball was turned over deep in the Brisbane half due to the efforts of Sheridan Gallagher and India Breier to set her up.

That equaliser would be as good as the afternoon got for the home side, and it was undone almost immediately. Tamar Levin headed home from a corner two minutes later. She was unmarked in front of goal by a defence that was unrecognizable from the week before.

Laini Freier’s first A-League Women’s goal sent the visitors into half time 3-1 ahead. She was set up by a typically storming run from her twin sister Sharn who cut the ball back infront of goal for an easy finish on Laini’s first start for the Roar.

Momo Hayashi made it four after the break with a 40 yard missile. The Japanese midfielder signed on with a reputation for the spectacular and delivered her second goal of the year contender with an unstoppable shot in the 49th minute.

The floodgates were well and truly open and Newcastle were unlikely to find any success with the counterattacking style that had won the day against Sydney FC. The gaps opened up even more at the back and Laini Freier added two more goals to her tally.

The first was another close range finish after substitute Tanaye Morris crossed low into the box. Tiahna Robertson was left with no chance as the unopposed Freier made it 5-1.

Her third and final goal of the day was once against set up by her sister. Sharn Freier was given way too much time and space when she needs neither on a good day. The cut back was met by Laini’s curling left foot finish to make it 6-1.

The win sends Brisbane into second on the table, behind only Melbourne City by two points, but to win without Yallop is one thing, to win 6-1 away without the league’s in-form player and Dolan Medal favourite is another thing completely.

Alex Smith’s team is built around local youth and is producing terrific football. They are playing with clarity and confidence not really seen in this team in the last three seasons.

This feels like a bit of an anomaly for The Jets. Nothing was working for them while everything was working for their opposition. It was a nightmare performance, but despite the scoreline it was not a total collapse.

They will expect to move past this quickly and will have a chance to return to the winners list against Canberra United next week.

Teams: NEWCASTLE JETS (3-5-1-1): Robertson, Cicco, Prior, Baumann, Hoban, Jackson, Davis, Dundas, Breier, Copus-Brown, Gallagher. Substitutes: Wilson, L Allan, J Allan, Collins, Boertje

Scorer: Davis 32’.

BRISBANE ROAR (4-3-2-1): Sekany, de la Harpe, McQueen, Varley, Blissett, Hayashi, Woods, S Freier, Levin, L Freier, Kuilamu. Substitutes: Kruger, Pringle, Morris, Hoyos, Richards.

Scorers: Kuilamu 2’, Levin 34’, Hayashi 49’, L Freier 42’, 69’, 72’.

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello

Attendance: 1,616.

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