Above: Robert Vilahamn Credit: Chris Cowlin: Spurs Chat Podcast & Tottenham News via YouTube
Tottenham Hotspur host Aston Villa at Brisbane Road this Sunday, in a game where results are sure to define both sides ultimate standings on the Barclay’s WSL table.
When asked what successful performances for his Tottenham side could look like in these concluding games of the season, manager Robert Vilahamn detailed the importance of “gaining as many points as possible”. He also highlighted the need for growth in the team’s dominance; so that they are able to go into next season in a positive position to “compete and close that gap…that we haven’t done this season”.
Achieving these positive results requires player welfare at the forefront. This reflects a debate in the women’s game, following a growing injury crisis during the April international window.
Vilahamn confirms his Spurs side was not exempt from the growing list of injuries across the league.
Charlie Grant returned from international break with an unspecified “minor issue, [meaning] that she probably cannot be in the squad for this week”.
Luana Bühler, also returns with an unspecified injury that leaves her unavailable for “at least the first upcoming games, perhaps the [last] four games”.
Hayley Raso is confirmed to be nursing a quad injury. Her early departure from the last block explained, having picked up the injury “in the last training before the Leicester game”. She was “sent to Australia to make sure they can have a second opinion”.
There has been growing speculation that Raso’s absence from the team sheet extends beyond injury. To which Vilahamn responded by ensuring that the two of them are “working good together”.
Optimistically, captain Beth England is in contention, Vilahamn detailing “she trained well this week and hopefully she is in the squad for this weekend”.
Above: Beth England’s return to training. Photo: Beth England Instagram @bethanyengland4
Positive news on the pitch, as England has proven on countless occasions that she is a key component in Tottenham’s ability to secure goals on the multitude of chances they are capable of creating. And, off the pitch, Vilahamn praising England’s voice in the locker room and her leadership skills.
In terms of Vilahamn’s analysis of Aston Villa as an opponent, he praised manager Natalia Arroyo’s intelligence in adapting her sides starting eleven, to secure the points necessary to clear the relegation battle her side is currently facing.
Vilanhamn also alluded to the outcomes of the weekend being defined by if Villa play “for points or for their identity”.
Tottenham vs Aston Villa kicks off at 2pm Easter Sunday and is available to stream live on the Barclay’s WSL YouTube channel.
Above: Mariona Caldentey celebrates. Photo: Arsenal Women.
Prior to tomorrow’s Champions League semi-final, Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey and manager Renee Slegers spoke on the fitness of Kelly and Russo, the squad’s hunger for a title and their “respect” for Lyon.
Alessia Russo and Chloe Kelly are “fully available” again and will feature in tomorrow’s match day squad. Slegers said that “both players have been working really hard with the medical team to get to this point” and stated that “they’re available for a lot of minutes tomorrow”.
On the other hand, Daphne Van Domselaar is still out with injury, alongside Lotte Wubben Moy. Van Domselaar is “progressing really well” and staff are waiting to “see when she can be available”.
Having forwards Russo and Kelly included in tomorrow’s squad will be vital as the team hope to utilise their home advantage to get the best possible result. With 40,000 tickets having been sold, an enormous crowd is expected at the Emirates and Slegers’ team are “going to take the opportunity by the throat” as they “know that tomorrow is [their] chance”.
Providing a player’s perspective on the upcoming fixtures, Mariona stated that the team are ready for this first game “at home with [their] fans”. Slegers reiterated this point when she said: “we’re playing at the Emirates, and with the hunger and belief we have at the moment, we’re going to go and play the game the best we can”.
This game will have small margins as “it’s two top teams playing against each other”. Slegers understands the “challenge” that Arsenal will face in Lyon who have been in this position many times before and she has “huge respect” for their history, players, and staff. Mariona reiterated the respect that the team have for their opponents when she described their players as “dangerous” and having “such talent”.
As Slegers said, “football’s unpredictable” but Arsenal is hoping to “start fast and go for it at the Emirates” with the knowledge that at the end of tomorrow’s match it is only half time so, no matter the result, there will still be “a lot of work to do in Lyon”.
This semi-final, where Arsenal plays at home in the first leg, “is a different scenario” to the one they faced in the quarter-finals when they clashed with Real Madrid at home in the second leg. Arsenal were defeated in the first leg, which was played in Spain, but forced their way back into the competition during the second leg, finishing the semi-finals with a 3-2 win on aggregate.
This is an example of how “the team keeps on proving time after time what [they’re] capable of”. They were “so happy” to beat Real Madrid and their game at home “was a big moment” as they maintained “composure under pressure” and played the game at “a very high level”.
Like the women’s side have done, Arsenal’s men’s team have reached the Champions League semi-finals after beating Real Madrid in the quarter finals. Slegers is “very happy for the men’s team” and the whole club is excited as it is the first time in its history that both the men’s and women’s team have reached the Champions League semi-finals. Arsenal men played their first quarter final leg at home and Slegers found the way that they went about the two legs “inspirational”.
Arsenal women are also gaining inspiration from the footballers within their own squad; Mariona herself has won the Champions League three times, and her experience is something that Slegers is “learning a lot from”. The manager was keen to compliment Mariona who smiled as she was described as a someone who wants to win everything that she does.
After Arsenal beat Leicester City on Tuesday, Slegers also praised Mariona, stating that she makes everyone around her play better. The Spanish attacker makes frequent contact with the ball, something which she “loves” to do. She finds it “easy” to play with the Arsenal team stating that she is “ready for whatever the team and the coach ask” of her.
Her exceptional play has been recognised beyond Arsenal; just before she spoke to the media, it was announced that she’d been named the PFA WSL Fans’ Player of the Month for March. Mariona said: “It’s amazing when you feel everyone recognises your work and your effort”. It’s evident that during her first season at Arsenal Mariona is making her mark on the club which she described as feeling “like home from the first day”.
Mariona is certainly hoping to have a further impact on her club during tomorrow’s match which she says, “will be a tight game”. She said: “The team has the mentality of winning, I think that’s a bit contagious as well”, adding that “everyone is hungry for a title”. Mariona and her teammates are three games away from winning the Champions League. The four “best teams in Europe” are left and Arsenal are one of them, but they still “want more”.
Arsenal is not the only English side remaining in the Champions League, Chelsea are set to face Barcelona in the semi-finals, with their first leg being played away on Sunday. Mariona hopes that “one English team will be in the final” and really hopes that that team will be her own.
Getting this far in the Champions League requires more than talent; Mariona highlighted how hard work, fitness and teamwork are crucial. She believes that this is being built at Arsenal.
The importance of these factors is emphasised to young Arsenal players when they train with the first team. Jessie Gale, a young Gunner who is currently dual registered with Watford, was present in today’s training session but will not feature in tomorrow’s squad. Slegers said that Gale “comes and trains” with the first team “once or twice a week” and that they “like to have her with [them]”.
It’s not only the high-level sessions with experienced players that benefit these young footballers, but also the introduction to the Arsenal lifestyle. Slegers said that it is “good for them to get used to the routines of an Arsenal player”.
It’s likely that these young players will be watching tomorrow’s game which kicks off at 12:30pm and can be streamed on TNT Sports and DAZN. Despite the “task” that Arsenal must do tomorrow, Slegers is “excited” and will remind herself “to enjoy the moment”. Mariona will do the same, stating that enjoying the match is a “gift” that players have to give themselves.
Arsenal firmly believe that they “deserve” to be at this stage of the Champions League and “want to go for it” tomorrow at the Emirates.
Above: Adelaide United’s two-goal hero Fiona Worts (red shirt) battles away against Sydney FC today. Photo: Adelaide United.
Two goals from Fiona Worts against her former club ensured that Adelaide United came from behind to end Sydney FC’s unbeaten run and go into their home Elimination Final next weekend on a high.
Conversely, Sydney FC ended their disappointing season with a result that encapsulated their failure to play Finals football for the first time in the league’s 17-year history. Those two strikes from Worts cancelled out Maddie Caspers’ opener for the visitors, which ensured that Ante Juric’s side ended the campaign having lost a potential 13 points from winning positions.
Adelaide, guaranteed to finish in third place and claim a home Elimination Final next weekend, regardless of what happened in this encounter earned the first chance in this match, with just three minutes played.
Fiona Worts was played in and ran towards the by-line on the right-hand flank before finding Lucia León behind her who played in a first time ball high for Dylan Holmes, who was unmarked in the centre of the box and directed a header towards the bottom corner of the net, but was denied by a super save by Jasmine Black.
Sydney responded 10 minutes later when Maddie Caspers used her strength to win turnover ball from Nanako Sasaki, and advanced into the right-hand edge of the box before hitting a shot that Claudia Jenkins repelled with a spectacular diving save before her defence cleared.
However, with 20 minutes played, Caspers had better luck. An excellent move on the left-hand flank, which started inside their own half with Abbey Lemon combining with Princess Ibini before the latter found Amber Luchtmeijer who threaded a centimetre-perfect low crossfield pass that dissected the Adelaide midfield and defence for Mackenzie Hawkesby to supply the pass between Zoe Tolland and Ella Tonkin for Caspers to take a touch sweep home from 10 yards in a central position.
Back came the Reds, and six minutes later, a piece of individual magic from Worts almost levelled the scores. León headed the ball towards the English striker, who had her back to goal, around 25 yards out. Despite being tightly marked by two players, Worts gained control and used her skill to break clear, turn and fire a rocket of a shot just wide of the right-hand post.
Adelaide conjured up several further chances in the last 10 minutes of the half. Black was called upon to deny Holmes twice more, first from a shot in the box, and then from long range. Also in this spell, Worts’ goal-bound shot was cleared by Jordan Thompson.
Finally, the home side got their equaliser, a minute into stoppage time at the end of the first half. Sydney were on the attack, but Emily Hodgson snaffled up possession for Adelaide on the edge of her own box and supplied a pass to Sarah Morgan, positioned centrally inside her own half.
Morgan, in turn, played a long ball through to Worts. The striker’s first touch, which enabled her to beat the only player near her, Nat Tobin, was sublime, and allowed her to side-foot with aplomb into the bottom right-hand corner.
The home side continued to create the bulk of the half-chances in the second half, with Emily Hodgson, Tonkin, and Sian Dewey being denied in the opening 20 minutes.
Sydney opportunities were much fewer and further between, with Ibini seeing an effort blocked by Dewey with 68 played.
Adelaide, dominant in possession, finally hit the front with just under a quarter of an hour to play. Healy found fellow substitute Tiarna Karambasis in the middle of the park to release León on the right flank to turn a low ball into the near post, where Worts showed all her poacher’s instinct to side foot home.
The margin of victory could have been greater five minutes later when Black denied Worts her hat-trick in some style. Receiving the ball on the far side of the 18-yard box, the striker fired in a first-time volley that needed a diving save to push the ball away.
Thompson also made another potential goal-saving block in the final stages when the defender ensured that Healy’s effort didn’t hit the back of the net.
Sydney had two golden opportunities to claim a point in stoppage time at the end of the 90 minutes when Luchtmeijer was fed in the box by Faye Bryson, but the youngster put her shot wide of the right-hand post. Ibini’s effort was also repelled by Jenkins.
Adelaide United go into only their second Finals campaign in a confident mood. Whoever ends up travelling to Coopers Stadium will be real underdogs against the Reds.
Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner has told his team to expect a tough game when they face West Ham this weekend in the Women’s Super League.
Heading into the final weeks of the WSL season, Manchester United face arguably the toughest run-in of any team in the league. Following a trip to London to face a resurgent West Ham, they face Chelsea and Manchester City at Old Trafford before finishing the season away at Arsenal.
It is make-or-break time for the Red Devils; continue their good run of form and they continue to cement their third-place finish (and the potential for Champions League football next season). Manchester City are seven points behind their cross-city rivals, and will be eager to pounce on any dropped balls from United.
Speaking about their run-in ahead of the visit to London, United manager Marc Skinner echoed the need to be at their best over the next few weeks:
“Every game is so important now and I really think they [players] are really looking forward to the game, which I think is great as it is a big game. It’ll be tight, it’ll be tough to beat West Ham – they are always tough to beat, especially at that ground.”
West Ham have had a good season; currently seventh, they have beaten Brighton and done the double over Tottenham. Draws against Manchester City and Chelsea have been recent highlights, and Skinner is not underestimating the Hammers and their head coach, Rehanne Skinner (even though the two share their last name, they are not related).
The two head coaches know each other well; Marc Skinner worked as the West Ham boss’ assistant for a season at Leicester City. Discussing his former mentor this week, the United head coach shared:
“Rehanne’s super strength is consistency. Even when she’s under fire, she’s consistent with the messages and, you know, I think that her team are thriving on that, and she’s obviously recruited well on the budget.”
West Ham are known for their ability to defend and counter-attack. In their recent draw with Chelsea, they limited the blues to two big chances, winning more ground and aerial duels (51% and 57% respectively), and making nine more tackles (31 to Chelsea’s 22).
The Hammers also had one more shot on target (six to Chelsea’s five), two of which were provided by the German youth international Shekiera Martinez.
Speaking on what he expects tactically, Skinner echoed the need to avoid complacency against a team that on-paper, United should expect to beat:
“Rehanne knows very well how to stop teams playing and how to hit people on the counter. She’s super organised. I think it’s going to be a really tough game, but we’ve got to try and do what we do, which is, take the victory”.
Manchester United face West Ham on Saturday 19th April. Kick off is at 12pm UK time, and will be streamed on Sky Sports in the UK.
Above:Essendon celebrate their winning goal against Bulleen.
The Essendon Royals defeated Bulleen Lions 1-0 in a cagey, but entertaining game in Round Fives of Victoria’s NPLW.
Over the 12 months, this fixture has fast become one to circle on the calendar and eagerly anticipate. Last season, they newly promoted Royals were the only side that Bulleen could not overcome on their way to a very convincing premiership, and although the lineups for both sides looked different to 2024, this was bound to be another intriguing contest.
The major caveat for this game was Bulleen’s injuries. They travelled across town without the services of attacking midfielder Hollie Massie and target striker Taylor Golden.
Bulleen were reliant on the trickery and pace of wingers Danella Butrus and Anais Josefski and the pair were inches away from delivering the opening goal. Butrus broke clear and hit a ball across the face of goal that somehow evaded both the net and the outstretched boot of Josefski.
Royals striker Airi Fujiwara was a menacing presence in the Essendon attack and replied with an effort of her own. She elected to shoot from the corner of the box, and might have been better off crossing to an unmarked Grace Paradis at the far post.
Avan Groba was next to threaten for the home side, and set up Sasha Coorey who crafted a promising opening, but Bulleen’s defence was able to scramble to ball clear. The Royals were creating the better opportunities up to half time, but Bulleen remained dangerous, particularly on the counter-attack or when Josefski backed her pace.
Butrus remained a threat for the visitors, the NPW March Player of the Month drew the best out of Zara Board in the Essendon goal. Her clever control and turn gave her just enough space for the shot. Board was wrong footed by the effort, but somehow reacted quickly enough to pull off a remarkable save.
The game was decided by a slightly scrappy goal. Fujiwara’s turn and half-volleyed effort forced Emily Shields into an athletic save, but Cobi Wilbert buried the rebound with a composed and difficult finish.
The game opened up following the goal, Ava Groba almost doubled the lead but her shot missed the target.
Bulleen did not make the same mistakes that led to a late loss to Preston two weekks ago, but could not find the equaliser despite the best efforts of Butrus and Josefski. Butrus ended the match in pain after being on the receiving end of a tough tackle one moment and then a ball to the body after getting in the way of a clearance.
This is Bulleen’s third consecutive loss, but there was a lot to like about the performance, and given the chances they created, it is hard to ignore the missing players in attack. \
Essendon’s win saw them rebound from a loss against The Preston Lions in Round Four, and the display today particularly in attack, will gives supporters and players confidence that they can reach the heights of 2024 again.
In other games, Anna Liacopoulos was the hero for Bentleigh Greens with a brace and a 94th minute equaliser. Erri Yamashita scored for Spring Hills FC, who also got one through an own goal.
Alamein and Heidelberg United played out a 1-1 draw. Emma Runnalls opened the scoring in the ninth minute before Sawa Matsuda equalised before half time.
FV Academy earned their first points of the season with a 2-2 draw at home to Box Hill. The Academy side were in a leading position thanks to an own goal and an Alice Francou strike until Isabella Flanigan pulled one back and Ameera Makunja levelled the scores in the 82nd minute.
Boroondara-Carey Eagles defeated Preston 2-0 in a reminder that this is a tough, and delightfully unpredictable competition. Speedster Priya Savarirayan and Emily Collier with the goals.
In the final match of the round, South Melbourne continued on their winning ways with a 3-1 defeat of Brunswick Juventus. Meisha Westland was the star once again with a stunning long range, second minute goal which was added to by Akeisha Sandhu and Nikki Furukowa. Alyssa Smith scored for the visitors.
Above: Stephen Peters talking to the media at Perth Glory’s Fremantle HQ today. Image: Perth Glory.
Perth Glory’s season can be summed up in one word – frustrating. A never-ending injury list, a number of results not matching the performance, and not quite managing to pick up an away win.
However, that frustration reached a whole new level last weekend in the team’s last gasp defeat at Sydney FC, a result that ended the Western Australian side’s Finals hopes.
Head coach Stephen Peters reflected on those issues today, and it both looked and sounded like it’s still as raw for him as it is for anyone who describes themself as a fan of his team.
“We felt like we had four key refereeing decisions go against us – a red card, two penalties, and a rugby tackle before a goal, which the player who should have been sent off scored…on a rugby pitch by the way!
“I would describe (the pitch) as completely horrendous, and I would probably say that if I was in charge of that football club, the groundskeeper would have probably lost his job.”
Those sources of frustration are clear because the final result and the way it happened cover up what had been a strong showing on the road to the reigning champions.
“We were quite pleased with the way we played, and we know we had a couple of chances to win it late ourselves, so to not do that and then cop the goal was a little bit frustrating, and it hurt us on the day…but with a little bit of reflection, everyone can see we probably deserved a little bit more from that game – and by a little bit, I mean a lot more, and we’re quite pleased with the style of football we played and the approach we had.”
Above: Perth Glory’s Izzy Dalton in action last weekend at Sydney FC. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Perth felt strongly that the scorer of Sydney FC’s winning goal in the depths of second-half stoppage time, Princess Ibini should never have been on the pitch to do so, having gone in studs-first into Glory captain Izzy Dalton’s leg. Ibini was shown a yellow card. Fortuntately, Dalton is OK to play this week in the club’s final game of the season.
“Luckily. On another day, I think that could have been pretty bad – and by bad, I mean a broken leg. It’s hard to justify how it goes unpunished, but she’s got some pretty bad grazes on her leg and some bruising. She’ll probably wear a bit of padding and get on with it, I’d say.”
Peters also revealed that goalkeeper Casey Dumont trained today, which brings her back into contention to play against Melbourne City on Friday.
The upcoming final game of the season at the Sam Kerr Football Centre has a lot riding on it still, with the Sky Blues looking to complete an unbeaten campaign and clinch the Premiership. The Perth boss wants his side to channel the frustrations of last week into ending the season by doing something no-one else has managed in the league.
“Melbourne City is a team that everyone has a lot of respect for, the quality that they possess. We want to try and spoil the party. They won the Premiership in Perth last year, so we want to not let history repeat itself…
“They are definitely going to want to put it to bed early because they want to control the game…we’ve got to be really ready for that. Holly McNamara is a brilliant player – we have to be ready for her, Speckmaier, Pollicina, McKenna, Bosch – good side! They’ve rotated two starting elevens all season, so a nice position to be in!
“We’re going to try to take the game to them and do what we’ve done at Sam Kerr (Football Centre) in every game, which is try to bring the crowd into it and make an entertaining game, and hopefully, we can put a couple of goals in and take the three points and keep the fans happy.”
With Peters coming to the end of his first season in charge at the club, he reflected on what’s happened and sees a lot of reasons to be positive for next year.
“We’ve all learned a lot…the more we look at it, the more we see there’s some incredibly missed opportunities there where we feel that six or eight points better off would have got us in the top six.
“If you look at all the tight games we’ve had, the tight losses, the draws and stuff, there’s a lot of opportunities there we left out on the park…there’s a lot of reflection required, but I don’t think we’re a long way from being a top six, even higher side.”
Above: Ella Abdul-Massih speaking earlier today. Image: Perth Glory.
Young Perth Glory star Ella Abdul-Massih is determined to build on the positives of last week’s trip to Sydney when they face Melbourne City on Friday night.
“We looked at the positives from the game. We thought, collectively, it was a very good game. We were happy with our performance in that game. There were some controversial calls in the game, but all round, we were happy with that performance, and we want to bring that into this weekend, our last game of the season against City.
“They obviously haven’t lost a game all season, so that brings us a bit more fire to be the only team in the league that can hopefully beat City.
“City are a great team…first game of the season we played them, and we were in the lead, so going into this game, it would be great to beat City…we’re aiming for that.”
The 18-year-old from New South Wales admitted to me earlier this season in an interview for the club website (https://perthglory.com.au/news/alw-in-focus-ella-abdul-massih/) how hard at times she found the move 3,800+km west away from her family, and it’s been a situation made harder by injuries as well. However, she’s definitely in a much happier place now and credits her teammates and coaching staff for ensuring she has fully settled into life in WA.
“It’s been difficult. It’s a mental game as well. I’ve played three seasons and I’ve never had as many injuries as I’ve had this one season, so it’s definitely been hard, and it hasn’t been little injuries; it’s been a few weeks out, a month out, a month and a half out, so it’s been difficult building connections and consistency in games, so when you haven’t played for a month and a bit and then play, it makes it difficult.
“I’ve learned a lot on the field and off the field. Off the field, living by myself without my family – there’s seven of us at home – and now it’s just me and my cousin, so that’s a big difference.
“On the field, I’ve learned so much having Stephen (Peters, head coach) and (Tiana) Gauci (assistant coach)…I’ve found we try to play more football. Where I’ve been previously, we’ve been a bit more direct…but I do like the football style that we’ve been trying to incorporate into our game (in Perth).”
In terms of her personal high point of the season – there’s no contest – that 93rd-minute free-kick to clinch three points at home to Brisbane Roar at the end of January. It’s an achievement that still makes her smile.
“Definitely the top! It’s taken me so long to score! It felt great. It also felt great to do it with that team as they obviously backed me to take that free kick, and I definitely want to be able to do it again this week!
Above: Ella Abdul-Massih (20) in action for Perth Glory at Sydney FC last weekend. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Above: Sam Kerr, Hayley Raso, and Tameka Yallop celebrate. Image: Football Australia.
By Genevieve Henry (16/4/25).
With the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup looming and Australia’s most beloved generation yet to win a major trophy, Impetus’ Genevieve Henry discusses the label of “the Golden Generation” and why it slows down the future while stopping us from properly celebrating the past.
Australian women’s football has experienced a tremendous rise in popularity over the past few years, with the Matildas achieving both global and local recognition for their impact on the sport. The 2023 Women’s World Cup transformed the sporting landscape of Australia, the home tournament drawing unbelievably large crowds, endearing the national team to the general public, and inspiring a surge in registrations for both young girls and boys. The Matildas have become one of the most popular teams in the country, competing with sports such as cricket, rugby, and AFL, which have dominated popularity for years. The players have become household names, with the average Australian not only able to name Sam Kerr, the figurehead of the side, but other members of the Matildas with Caitlin Foord, Ellie Carpenter, and Mary Fowler among the most beloved.
But, with this widespread recognition comes immense pressure. For years, the Matildas have been at the precipice of greatness. Since around 2017, the football world has had eyes on this team, waiting for the right place and the right time for Australia to finally achieve something. This ongoing era of promise was led by a freakish goalscorer in Kerr, alongside an especially talented group of players around the same age; Foord, Steph Catley, Kyah Simon, Emily Van Egmond, Katrina Gorry, Hayley Raso, Mackenzie Arnold, Tameka Yallop, and Alanna Kennedy are all among the names. They have been labelled as a “Golden Generation” by many fans and pundits. But, their achievements have been largely off-field, winning hearts but no major trophies.
Australia has been stuck in cycles of excitement and disappointment. When the Matildas fell short in a tight game to Japan in the 2018 Asian Cup final, we looked to the 2019 Women’s World Cup. After the nightmare in Nice, we regrouped and looked to the Tokyo Olympics. The hope and celebration from coming fourth in that tournament gave the Matildas and their fans a massive confidence boost going into the 2022 Asian Cup. It was the perfect tournament to make their mark and hopefully ride the wave into a World Cup on home soil. But, in arguably the hardest game for fans to relive ever, Australia once again fell short. Every tournament, we pretend we can focus on the next.
The 2023 World Cup was the pinnacle. It was the moment to prove that Australia could compete with, even beat, the best in the world. For a while, it looked possible; the success that Australia had dreamed of was almost tangible. But, we all know how it ended; fourth, again. While this was a remarkable achievement in the ever-competitive and improving landscape of women’s football, it simply did not live up to the expectations that the Matildas had set for themselves. The Paris Olympics had similar expectations, yet far worse results and an utter lack of excitement. So, all we have to show for all the hype are some friendly tournament trophies and an all-time high FIFA ranking of 4th in 2017. Will the Matildas break the pattern with this Asian Cup, or will they continue to fluctuate between near-success and total capitulation?
Above: Many of the “Golden Generation” posing together with the Cup of Nations trophy. Image: Player Instagram.
The 2026 Asian Cup on home soil may very well be the last chance these players have to win a major trophy. The 2027 Women’s World Cup isn’t much further, but it’s likely that it could be the “Golden Generation’s” final cycle. Realistically, the Matildas have the talent to win this upcoming continental tournament. They have the home advantage, arguably the biggest name players, and perhaps the most incentive to bring it home. But, with the uncertainty of the coaching situation, it’s hard to see the Matildas beating Japan, the most threatening opponent in Asia. Over the next few years, fans, especially newer ones who have only known this generation, have to come to terms with their imminent retirements.
Labelling a group as a “Golden Generation” is not only misleading but actively harms the achievements of the players of both the past and future. It is crucial to recognize the contributions of those players who helped to lay the groundwork for women’s football in Australia. The term detracts from the talent of the generations that came before and built the Matildas. What about Angela Iannotta, Cheryl Salisbury, and Julie Dolan? The continued focus on the “golden” players of today risks erasing the history of the women who played a pivotal role in bringing the sport to prominence in Australia.
It also minimizes the upcoming talent and gives them a benchmark, a team that they can never beat in terms of public adoration. The “Golden Generation” label implies that the current group of players is a once-in-a-lifetime collection of talent, which can create unrealistic expectations for the future. For the Matildas’ next generation of players, this could create immense pressure to replicate or surpass the successes (as individuals and as a team) of the likes of Kerr, Foord, and others. While it’s vital to celebrate achievements, positioning these players as the pinnacle of Australian women’s football may inadvertently stifle the development of younger talent, who could feel as though they have to match or outdo the “golden” players’ achievements just to be considered successful.
Additionally, even if the Matildas were in a “Golden Generation”, other nations may have their own talented cohort. As male footballer Kevin De Bruyne famously expressed, it’s not fair to compare the successes of one country’s supposed best with others going through a similar era of promise. So, how can we say our “Golden Generation” should have achieved more when they are going up against the “Golden Generation” of England, Spain, and other powerhouses? It’s even more unfair when one considers the seemingly continuous stream of talent produced in countries like the USA and Japan. It reduces the quality of all parties involved instead of recognizing the ebbs and flows of national team football.
Another downside to the “Golden Generation” label is its suggestion that Australian women’s football may have reached its peak. If we focus too heavily on the achievements of this specific cohort of players, there is a risk of complacency in terms of investment, development, and long-term strategy for the sport. In order to find success in the future, Football Australia needs to invest in the continuous evolution of women’s football. By suggesting that the Matildas have already reached a “golden” zenith of sorts, Australia risks failing to keep pace with the growing global competition in women’s football. The Matildas need sustained investment at the grassroots level, as well as in coaching, infrastructure, and support systems, to ensure that future generations continue to thrive.
Above: The Matildas celebrate a goal. Image: Kris Goman for Impetus.
The “Golden Generation” label reinforces the idea that this group of players is a one-off success story, rather than part of an ongoing, evolving program of excellence. Women’s football is still growing, and Australia is a country where the potential for sustained success is high. By presenting the Matildas’ rise as part of a “golden” era, we may inadvertently convey the notion that they are an anomaly, rather than a product of a system that should be improving year by year. It becomes a narrative that doesn’t truly reflect the collective, sustained work behind the scenes necessary to push the sport forward.
Instead of labeling the generation as “golden,” we should embrace the notion that women’s football in Australia is an evolving landscape. Each new generation builds upon the successes and lessons of those who came before. The focus should be on development, recognition of diverse talents, and the long-term commitment to making Australian women’s football a world leader—not just basking in the glory of a singular “golden” era.
Of course, the achievements of this group of Matildas should be celebrated, but not elevated to a level that implies that their success is once-in-a-lifetime. By shifting the focus to the continued growth and investment in the sport, we can ensure that the Matildas’ current success is just the beginning of many future triumphs in Australian women’s football. The ultimate goal should be sustainability and progress, not simply a moment of brilliance that fades over time.
What our “Golden Generation” achieved was bigger than a trophy–they became a figurehead of Australian sport, an inspiration to little kids, and a symbol of female power and achievement; by shedding the “Golden Generation” label, we allow the celebration of the ongoing Australian contributions to women’s football and create a future where success is a continual, evolving story.
Above: Manchester United celebrate with traveling fans. Photo: Manchester United Women.
Manchester United beat their cross-city rivals in the second FA Cup semi-final on Sunday afternoon, thanks to goals from Celin Bizet and Grace Clinton.
The injury crisis in women’s football can never be talked about enough. Mere days after an injury-ridden England lost a surprising Nations League game in Belgium, Manchester City fell to the same fate. Missing players like Vivianne Miedema, Alex Greenwood, Jill Roord, Laura Blinkilde-Brown, Bunny Shaw, and Lauren Hemp, City are on the brink of collapse. Even United head coach Marc Skinner remarked post-game; “…we saw a city today that were diminished by injuries”.
City’s injury list increased twenty minutes into the game as Australian forward Mary Fowler went down with a suspected knee injury. She was replaced by 21-year old defender Naomi Layzell; City did not have any fit attacking options left to choose from.
However, this should not overshadow the grit and determination of a Manchester United team who were dogged in their pursuit of a third consecutive FA Cup final at Wembley. The cup holders were tenacious and did not let City have many chances; the best came from a Yui Hasegawa free kick that was only kept out by a tremendous double save from United keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce.
Above: City’s Yui Hasegawa provided their best chance. Photo: Manchester City Women on X
There is often a balance in football between a team performance and standout individuals. There were many standout performances by individuals in this United team; Elisabeth Terland’s work ethic and willingness to help her team defensively; Grace Clinton and Ella Toone’s latching on to City’s attempts to play out from the back; Celin Bizet providing a masterful performance on the wing.
Defensively, United were solid too: Gabby George had the pace to deal with Jess Park, Millie Turner and Maya Le Tissier were unflinching, and Tullis-Joyce provided saves that were reminiscent of United men’s former shot-stopper David De Gea.
These individual performances were highlighted by Skinner post-match, however it was the collective spirit and ability to work together as a team that pleased the United boss most:
“It was pure control. I felt that the defensive line was fantastic – Millie Turner, epic, Maya, epic, the full-backs when we swapped them, Gabby got in a couple of challenges late…and Teri [Elisabeth Terland] today. I know we talk about her goals, but the work she does for the team is the reason you keep clean sheets, and that shows you the a real special spirit”.
Pundits and fans have often debated the merits of having Toone and Clinton on the pitch at the same time (their inclusion plus that of Hinata Miyazawa normally means stalwart Dutch CDM Dominique Janssen is left on the bench), however Skinner’s game plan appeared to work today.
Toone and Clinton started the game and provided the creativity that prompted United’s attack; Bizet latched onto a sublime pass by Toone for United’s first goal six minutes in, and Clinton headed in from a George corner fifteen minutes later.
Above: United goalscorers. Photo: Manchester United.
Janssen was introduced when the game became stretched in the later stages and City began to build momentum, providing more control and protection for United’s backline.
On Toone, Skinner asserted that the Lioness is enjoying her football following an injury that kept her out of the team for months:
“She’s refreshed, she’s hungry…she had a little go at me because she had a cramp at that point…the pitch was quite hard and she had a cramp, so we took her off. I’ve really loved her leadership, she’s my vice-captain and she’s grown so much”.
United will be hoping to retain their FA Cup trophy, however will have to face a formidable foe first: Sonia Bompastor’s Chelsea, who have only lost once since the Frenchwoman took over last summer. Chelsea beat United in the FA Cup final two years ago, adding another dimension to the tie.
For his part, Skinner asserted that “I don’t care [who are favourites]”, adding that “the reality is a final is different, and I want to see us attack it, I want to see us be aggressive in it, and I believe if we do that with our special spirit, we can beat anyone”.
Manchester United will face Chelsea in the women’s FA Cup final at Wembley on the 18th of May. Time is TBD.
TEAMS: MANCHESTER CITY (4-3-3): Keating, Kerolin, Prior, Aleixandri, Ouahabi, Hasegawa, Casparij, Park, Coombs, Murphy, Fowler. Substitutes: Layzell (for Fowler 25′), Weinroither (for Murphy 82′), Yamashita, Startup, Oyama.
MANCHESTER UNITED (4-1-4-1): Tullis-Joyce, George, Turner, Le Tissier, Riviere, Miyazawa, Bizet, Clinton, Toone, Galton, Terland. Substitutes: Janssen (for Clinton 69′), Sandberg (for George 82′), Naalsund (for Toone 82′), Mannion (for Bizet 87′), Malard (for Riviere 87′), Middleton-Patel, Rendell, Awujo, Williams.
Above: The Wanderers celebrated Madison McComasky’s goalPhoto: A-Leagues.
Brisbane Roar’s season has ended. The competition’s early pace-setters have missed the top six following a dramatic draw with Western Sydney Wanderers. A Tameka Yallop hattrick and a Momo Hayashi wonder-goal were not enough to secure three points thanks to a game changing cameo from Holly Caspers and a red card for both sides.
Brisbane had everything to play for in the second last round of the season. A win would all but cement a sixth-place spot on the ladder, anything less and they would become dependent on the result in Canberra with a game to play.
Western Sydney arrived at Perry Park with Caspers and Sienna Saveska on the bench, on paper at least, it handed the prerogative to the home side and Brisbane started fast. Tameka Yallop opened the scoring in the 16th minute after meeting Emily Pringle’s cut back with an excellent first-time finish.
Yallop doubled the lead soon after, receiving the ball on the edge of the box and maintaining control despite a stumble to shoot into the bottom far corner.
Bronte Trew provided The Wanderers with a lifeline just minutes later, cutting in from the right side of the penalty box and finishing under Keeley Richards, and in an already captivating game, there was more drama to come before half time.
With the clock ticking down in added time, both Laini Freier and Sham Khamis were shown red cards after an altercation before a corner kick. Khamis seemed reluctant to release the ball for a corner kick and Freier tried to force the issue before the half time whistle. What transpired was as confusing as it was chaotic and needless, and both players were shown straight reds after Freier lashed out and Khamis retaliated.
With both teams reduced to 10 players, the second half was open and at time frenetic. Hayashi returned the two-goal cushion to The Roar with a sublime volley that she set herself up for with a flicked control.
With the floodgates threatening to open, The Wanderers substitutes stepped up. Saveska’s typically dangerous corner found the head of Caspers and it was 3-2. Caspers influence grew further when her run and cross ended with Madison McComansky’s close range finish to make it 3-3.
Yallop’s third goal of the afternoon sent the home crowd into delirium. Her 85th minute header looked to have sealed all three points and finals football. The captain could barely have done more in this game or this season, but it was not enough and Sophie Harding’s long range strike broke the hearts of Roar players while sending the home team in in Canberra into jubilation.
The result ends what was once a promising season for Brisbane Roar. After looking like premiership and championship contenders, significant injuries and unfortunate form dips saw them face a series of must-win games that they were unable to rise to. The quality is there, but losing Hyashi and Wolfsburg-bound Sharn Freier to mid season injuries proved to be insurmountable challenges.
It was not a wasted season, the emergence of Alicia Woods and Grace Kuilamu as genuine young stars of this competition are positive for the club and Australian Football. The sale of Freier was also massive for the league and Laini Freier earning a first Matildas cap following a pair of consecutive hatricks will remain a highlight.
However, this was not the way they envisaged their season ending, and may long feel like an opportunity lost.
This game had everything. It was quality and chaos. Beauty and heartbreak. And in the end, nobody on this pitch won.
Teams: BRISBANE ROAR (4-3-3): Richards, De La Harpe, Varley, McQueen, Blissett, Hayashi, Woods, Yallop, Popadinova, L Freier, Pringle. Substitutes: Hecher, Kruger, Morris, Cuthbert, Gibbon.
Above: Subiaco celebrate Marianna Tabain’s equaliser at Perth SC today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Game of the Week
Perth RedStar 0-0 Fremantle City
by Ella McShane
Points were shared at RedStar Arena, an outcome that saw both sides full further adrift of the league leaders.
The game started off measured, with both sides battling for control of tempo. RedStar’s front line making it closer to the box, although were met with a solid defensive block from Fremantle City.
Beckoning forward crosses were made by both sides, however, none were met with the central assistance required to bring it home. RedStar’s Lauren Continibali and Freo’s Abbey Green’s pace on their respective wings, being notable in the efforts to secure a goal during this first half
Half an hour in, RedStar called for a goal, but unfortunately for them, Freo answered. Posed in prime shooting position, Alex Poad’s excellent block ensured the score line stayed neutral.
The home side’s efforts came close to being rewarded again with an excellent long ball from Caitlin Doeglas. Only centimetres made the difference between the net and the crossbar.
Above: Perth RedStar goalkeeper Gabby Dal Busco, seen in action last season, denied Fremantle City’s Abbey Green in the second half. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
With all to play for in the second half, both sides upped the ante, the tempo became rapid, and fouls were much more frequent. RedStar’s number four Quyen Doan, was taken down in her respective side’s box by Fremantle City Leyna Wood’s ill-timed slide tackle.
Ultimately, the only official disciplinary in the second half was a yellow card for Janice Kiama’s foul against Doeglas at the 77th minute.
With the end drawing closer, it was a well-fought back and forth, clearly highlighting both sides’ hunger for a goal.
Freo’s Green earned the port city side’s closest opportunity with a shot on target, which was promptly halted by Red Star’s number one Gabby Dal Busco. Any hopes from the corner were denied by a determined RedStar side.
Ultimately, points were shared reflective of both sides’ efforts.
Above: Marianna Tabain (9) hits a shot for Subiaco at Dorrien Gardens today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
The Azzurri‘s 100% winning start to the season was shattered by a well-organised and supremly disciplined Subiaco side at Dorrien Gardens today.
Whilst the home side dominated possession, territory, and chances, they could never quite build a scoreboard lead that they would likely feel they deserved, which enabled Greg Farrell’s visitors to earn a point.
Sam Mathers, recalled to the Perth starting line-up this week, was a key figure in the first half with a series of runs and balls in along the right. With 19 minutes on the clock, from one such ball in from Mathers, Daisy McAllister headed narrowly wide. Mathers also kept visiting goalkeeper Monique Todd busy with a series of challenging high corners.
Just after the half-hour mark, Jess Flannery was felled just outside the box to the left of centre. Up stepped Kim McCartney to drive a trademark free-kick into the right-hand corner of the net.
Above: Kim McCartney’s (out of picture) free-kick flies in to give Perth SC (azure shirts) the lead against Subiaco today. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
As the match entered its final 20 minutes, Perth forced Todd into two further saves. First, Mathers’ high corner had to be pushed over as it curled dangerously in, and then Flannery’s shot from the left of centre in the box was repelled by the visiting keeper at full stretch.
The final 10 minutes saw the visitors have their best spell of possession and territory of the match. Ebony Ntoumenoupolous, Stella Zampogna, and Chloe Taylor were impressive, along with Sophia Papalia buzzing around. The arrival of Tabain as substitute led to Subi’s equaliser. There were six minutes remaining when Zampogna’s low ball in from the left was turned in by Tabain at the back stick.
Perth tried to rally and created two half-chances to retake the lead. With two minutes remaining, Nossent broke through but was denied by Todd, and then three minutes into stoppage time, McAllister’s shot on the turn from outside the box went over the top.
The last chance of the game fell to the visitors when Tabain pounced on a loose ball in the box but fired over the top.
Murdoch University Melville 0-4 Football West Academy
Above: Theodora Mouithys, scorer of two goals for Football West Academy at Murdoch University Melville, seen here in action last season. Photo: Cat Bryant.
The talented teenagers of the Football West Academy (FWA – formerly the NTC) are clear at the top of the ladder after recording their fourth win in as many NPLW WA games.
Their latest success came at Besteam Stadium today, where a brace from Theodora Mouithys and one each from Klaudia Houlis and Xuri Dalton ensured that they claimed the points.
The FWA hit the front with 25 minutes played as Houlis picked up possession along the left and held off home defender Emily Dewar to lay a pass towards Dalton on the left-hand side of the box. The ball rolled on for Mouithys, who took a touch before lashing home from around 15 yards.
Nine minutes later, they doubled their advantage as Mouithys advanced along the right and played in a cross to the near post that the home defence missed, allowing Dalton to pounce from close range.
Just 22 seconds into the second half, it was 3-0. Dalton advanced up the centre before laying a pass off to Lacey Heys, who played a ball into the box for an unmarked Houlis to sidefoot home from just inside the box to the right of centre.
The final goal came with 22 minutes remaining from a superb move that began deep inside their own half with a throw from Ava Santos. Amelie Dumont broke away through the centre to feed Dalton, who in turn released Mouithys to advance and confidently side-foot into the bottom right-hand corner of the net from the edge of the box.
UWA-Nedlands 1-5 Balcatta Etna
Balcatta Etna earned their second successive four-goal victory with this success at the UWA Sports Park today.
Jamie-Lee Gale hit a hat-trick, on top of a stunning free-kick from Zoee Spadano, who also bagged an assist, with Abbey Meakins completing the scoring.
The visitors hit the front on 24 minutes after superb work from Frankie Murray-Hocking along the right eventually led to Meakins releasing Mia Britton, who advanced to the edge of the box before returning possession to Meakins. Her low cross was turned in at the back post by Gale.
The second goal came seven minutes before the break. Gale was fouled out on the right-hand touchline, and the resulting free-kick from Spadano flew straight into the left-hand corner from around 30 yards on a tough angle. A stunning strike.
It was 3-0 less than two minutes later as Rachel Jarvis’ low cross from the left was once more turned in by the onrushing Gale towards the back stick.
Gale completed her hat-trick with 15 minutes remaining when a perfectly weighted ball forward from Spadano, who spotted the diagonal run of the attacker allowing Gale to race through to the right of centre, turn Isabelle Dadswel,l and sweep home from the edge of the six-yard box.
UWA-Nedlands got a goal back with five minutes when Chloe Rodrigo was fouled in the box by Mia Hargreaves, allowing Samara Riches to roll a low spot kick down the middle.
Balcatta restored their four-goal cushion in the final minute of regulation time when Jarvis dispossessed a home defender on the left before laying off to Jaime Duncanson. The substitute played in Meakins to advance and finish from the edge of the 18-yard box in a central position.
Ladder
Football West Academy P4 Pts 12 GD +10
Perth SC P4 Pts 10 GD +8
Perth RedStar P4 Pts 7 GD +8
Balcatta Etna P4 Pts 7 GD +6
Subiaco P3 Pts 4 GD -2
Fremantle City P4 Pts 2 GD -3
Murdoch University Melville P3 Pts 0 GD -12
UWA-Nedlands P4 Pts 0 GD -15
Round Five Fixtures
SATURDAY: Perth SC v Perth RedStar. SUNDAY: Fremantle City v Murdoch University Melville, UWA-Nedlands v Football West Academy, Subiaco v Balcatta Etna.
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