Kiera Skeels Exclusive Interview

by Jonathon Hagger (25/3/25)

Above: Keira Skeels in action for Charlton Athletic. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.

“I hold myself to very high standards and that’s what I expect from other people. It’s about setting the example and showing others the standard we want to be playing at.” 

Notching up 100 matches of football for one club is a remarkable achievement for any footballer. For a young player at the young age of 23, it’s an even more tremendous one. Kiera Skeels is a central defender and captain of Women’s Championship team, Charlton Athletic.

Describing herself as dedicated, hardworking, and competitive on the field is a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment she brings to football. Skeels is a quiet character who lets her actions, both on and off the pitch, do the talking. Regarded as one of the nicest and kindest teammates in football, her talented football skills are matched only by the delicious baking that she provides her team mates.

Starting out  

Like many football players, it was in the backyard of her family home that she found her enjoyment for football. Beginning at the age of seven, playing in a mixed team was her entry point to the game, until the age of 12 when she moved into a girls’ team. It was through playing with and against boys teams that brought out her competitive side.  

Her work ethic and commitment to ongoing improvement through the various junior grades and development academy over the years, culminated in her being signed to play for Reading’s first team.  

Being chosen to play for the first team is a huge accomplishment. Not every player gets the opportunity to impress, and Reading provided a lot of support for Skeels to grow into her potential. Even so, being selected for the first team squad didn’t automatically result in game time playing matches. But being in the squad gave her the chance to train and learn from some fantastic players such as Fara Williams and Natasha Harding.  

Growing self

While at Reading, Skeels took up a loan option with Bristol City for six months. Making the move was an easy decision as getting minutes and matches was the most important factor. With City not performing to their potential at the time, having a chance to join the team and make a positive contribution made complete sense.

In terms of disruption to her life, Bristol is not far from Reading in terms of geography, so relocating was straightforward given that Skeels could regularly visit her family home with ease. 

At the end of the loan period, her desire to keep playing minutes in matches was priority. Heading into the end of the season there wasn’t initially a clear next step, but being in an environment that fosters and nurtures her development was crucial. Being able to sign a contract with Charlton Athletic as a member of the first team was the perfect next step in her career development.  

Above: A picture in concentration: Kiera Skeels. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.

“Having the consistency of playing regular first team football was most important.” But there is still more to work on in terms of her football skills and abilities. She has recognized how important it is to work on her physicality, her work rate and her ability to keep up with the pace of the game. Having made big gains in those areas while at Charlton, she has changed her focus to developing her technical and tactical skills. Given her high standards of performance, she is now asking herself – ‘what other areas do I need to work on?’.   

“The psychological aspect of football is something I have really worked hard on in the last two years. And I have also stepped up into a leadership role.  So these two aspects have been my biggest area of development in the last two years.”  

“How can I become the best player I can, including those skills in my game?”.   

When you’re enjoying your football, are feeling valued and a big part of the team, that helps. You really want to do your very best and give everything for the team. It helps when you’re playing with a smiley face and seeing the rewards from that.    

In the 2023/2024 season, the Charlton Athletic women finished second overall in their league, narrowly missing out on being promoted. In reflecting on the season that was, Skeels spoke glowingly about how great the team atmosphere was to be in.  

International Duties 

Being selected for the England Under 23 squad was an incredible honour after having worked her way up through the various lower age group representative teams, including the under 17s, under 18s and under 19 teams. Being selected to play in the Under 23’s is serious business, with the next step being selection for the England national team. Not only did she get to experience playing with some of the very best players in England but she also competed against some of the very best young players in the world.  

Taking the pitch alongside some now famous players such as Lauren James, Fara Williams and Jess Park was an incredible experience. The player speaks very highly of the many young players who are currently breaking through into the top tier of women’s football: currently.  

“I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside them”.  

Stepping up to lead

Through her commitment to excellence, Skeels was soon elevated into the role of captain for the Charlton Athletic women’s team. She describes herself as ‘not your typical captain’.  

“I’m quite a quiet character and I don’t shout at people or tell people they aren’t doing things right. I have my own style that I have developed. My style is to lead by example. On the pitch I do everything I can to win, leaving all my effort out there and that is what I expect from my teammates.  Through showing others what I expect coupled with my positivity, that is when I am at my best leading others.”   

At first, leading was something she found difficult because it was not a responsibility that she was used to. However, having the trust of the people in the coaching team and knowing they had chosen her specifically for the role, enabled her to step up and into the role of leadership.   

Above: Kiera Skeels plays the ball forward for Charlton Athletic. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.

Her leadership philosophy is demonstrated through her use of her actions to make a point rather than just saying it. “I am someone who will put my arm around you and lead in that way.” Adapting to this style of leadership is something the team has done well. When needed the team have provided encouragement and support to lift their captain up.  

Building a good relationship with the Team Manager has been instrumental for Skeels’ leadership success. Karen Hills, Head Coach, has nurtured Kiera and her leadership style.  

For the first two seasons the player was extremely quiet around Hills. “I’m not someone to put myself out there. I tried to go under the radar and that’s how I am”. However, Hills recognized the leadership potential and, through her understanding the optimal conditions that Skeels works best in, they have developed a good understanding of each other.   

Nurturing and developing players

Mary Bashford is a young player that Skeels is helping to support as she breaks through into the first team environment. “Thinking back to when I was in her shoes and what I needed in terms of support, and when the younger players come up from the academy, it is making sure they feel at home and comfortable, because we have all been there before and know what it’s like. I want to be the person who is there to help them when they need it”.   

Getting coverage and exposure for players in the Championship is another area that the player recognizes as being an important. In the current season, one match a week is broadcast live on YouTube but in the 2025/2026 season all championship matches will be broadcast which will shine a light on the league.

“The audience is there and there are people who want to be watching these teams, week in and week out”.  

Engaging with fans  

“It’s a great feeling when you have people coming down, supporting you, wanting you to be the best you can. Having little girls and boys idolizing you – that is a great feeling. It’s nice to give back to those fans and make their trip worthwhile.”  

Attendees at matches will often engage with the players and Skeels goes out of her way to make everyone she meets feel appreciated and thanked for their support. Her kindness extends off the pitch both pre- and post-match.  Members of This Girls Ability have the opportunity be mascots and get photos post-match. Charlton’s captain is often very willing to take a selfie and autograph items. 

Above: Kiera Skeels making time for the fans at The Valley. Photo: Danni Fairbairn.

Family and football  

The role of family is incredibly important in Skeels’ life. Her parents are her biggest fans and have her England Under 17s shirt, that she debuted in, framed and in pride of place in the family home.  

“My family wouldn’t miss a game for the world. They’re always there, always watching no matter where we are playing. They’ll come and watch me play no matter who or where we are playing”.  

Where to from here?

Moving onward and upward to the WSL is the optimal goal for Skeels and is what she is working hard to achieve. To get there, playing for Charlton Athletic and striving hard to achieve promotion is key.   

“The goal is always to play at the highest level I can and seeing where that takes me”.  

Keep an eye on Kiera Skeels. She is a player that will be going places in the future!  

Off the cuff

Describe yourself as a footballer in three words – Dedicated, Competitive, Hard working.   

Best dancer in the team? – Elisha N’Dow.  

A night in or a night out? – a night in, definitely!  

Music preference pre-match? – something chilled and not too hectic.  

Your go-to goal celebration – a look of surprise that I scored! 

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Sermanni and Prior on Matildas squad and needing to “get a bit of the swagger back.”

Above: Tash Prior and Tom Sermanni at the squad announcement. Image: Daniel Rodriguez provided by Football Australia.

By Genevieve Henry (25/3/25).

Interim Matildas head coach Tom Sermanni has named the 23-player squad set to face Korea Republic in a series of friendlies in early April. “The key thing for us is to get the confidence back in the team and get a bit of the swagger back.”

In a squad that remains largely unchanged from a disappointing SheBelieves Cup, the major piece of news is the absence of Sam Kerr. While Kerr seemed to be nearing her return to play, she was not fit to play for Chelsea before the squad announcement and therefore unable to play for Australia. 

“Sam’s still making a comeback from her knee operation a year and a bit ago,” Sermanni shared. “She’s not been fully cleared yet by Chelsea. She’s on the mend and she’s not too far off, so her first priority is to get her on the field with Chelsea and then hopefully she’ll be available for selection for the Matildas.”

Defenders Courtney Nevin and Jamilla Rankin return to the squad after absences after impressing for their respective clubs. They add depth to the left side of defence, begging the Steph Catley at Centre Back question. Clare Wheeler also makes her return to international football following an injury that kept sidelined the last two windows. 

“This squad selection is about achieving the right balance – reintegrating players returning from injury and rewarding those who have been playing consistently well in clubland,” Sermanni said. “It’s important to create continuity while also bringing in players who have earned their place through strong performances.” 

As Korea Republic are also already qualified for the Asian Cup, both sides will be looking to experiment with and solidify tactics and teams. One of Australia’s most menacing Asian opponents, Korea Republic will be no pushovers and will force the Matildas to do their tinkering under significant pressure. 

With Sermanni still at the helm for an unspecified amount of time, the full-time coach will have very little time to prepare for the Asian Cup. But, he is doing his best to work with the team and progress them towards their goals. “Every match leading into the Asian Cup is an opportunity to fine-tune our approach, build cohesion, and ensure we are performing at the level required to take on Asia’s best during next year’s tournament.” 

“We are fortunate to have a core group of players competing at the highest levels, whether it’s in the UEFA Women’s Champions League or major domestic competitions. Their ongoing exposure to high-pressure environments is invaluable as we prepare for the challenges ahead, knowing we still have plenty of details to work on heading into next year’s Asian Cup.”

Above: Prior will be familiar with the venue in Newcastle as a Jets player. Image: Daniel Rodriguez provided by Football Australia.

Alongside many of the European-based players, the squad is sprinkled with A-League Women talents, especially the in-form Holly McNamara. This window is vital for her to cement her spot in the attack before Kerr returns. Another star still on home soil is Tash Prior, who joined Sermanni at the squad announcement. 

Prior said the experience of playing with some of the current Matildas superstars “hasn’t really sunk in yet.” She explained, “when we’re in a team talk, I’m looking around going “oh my god” at players that I looked up to for so long. It’s my third camp, so I feel settled but I’m still at a ‘pinch me’ state.” 

When she got the call that she would once again be in the squad, she got some special motherly advice. “Mum’s message to me was, ‘go in, play strong, and keep your spot’ basically. The upcoming games are just another chance for me to prove myself.”

“Hopefully I can make my way into the starting spot, but any minutes at this stage I’m thankful for,” Prior explained. Although still one of the least experienced members of the squad, Prior brings her calm presence and commanding skills to an area of current uncertainty for the Matildas; the centre of defence. 

The Matildas face Korea Republic on April 4th at Allianz Stadium in Sydney and on April 7th at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.

Above: The Matildas squad. Image: The Matildas.

Matildas Squad List

Mackenzie Arnold 

Ellie Carpenter (VC)

Steph Catley (C)

Kyra Cooney-Cross 

Caitlin Foord 

Mary Fowler 

Katrina Gorry

Charli Grant 

Winonah Heatley 

Michelle Heyman 

Clare Hunt 

Alanna Kennedy 

Chloe Lincoln 

Holly McNamara 

Teagan Micah

Courtney Nevin

Natasha Prior

Jamilla Rankin 

Hayley Raso

Kaitlyn Torpey 

Emily Van Egmond (VC)

Clare Wheeler

Tameka Yallop

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Terland brace and Clinton wonder-goal sink Aston Villa 

Aston Villa 0 – 4 Manchester United

By Catherine MacKenzie (23/03/2025)

Above: Manchester United celebrate their win. Photo: Manchester United Women on X.

Manchester United beat Aston Villa by a resounding four goals to nil in Birmingham, thanks to a brace from Elisabeth Terland and goals from Grace Clinton and Leah Galton.

It is unlikely that anybody would have predicted Aston Villa’s season. That new manager Robert De Pauw would be replaced mid-season under a cloud of scandal; that they would remain hovering above the relegation places with five games left to play; that their squad including former internationals like Rachel Daly and Jordan Nobbs, youth internationals like Missy Bo Kearns and Katie Robinson, would struggle to find any semblance of a cohesive identity.

Their last win came a month ago against Brighton, and since then they have been beaten by fellow relegation potentials Leicester City, Everton, and Crystal Palace (in what was only Palace’s second win of the season).

Conversely, most Manchester United fans would not have predicted that this close to the end of the season, they would sit seven points clear of Manchester City and equal on points with Arsenal in the Champions League places, with occasional mentions of a title challenge.

Coming into Sunday’s game, however, the picture was slightly muddier. In their last outing, United were treated to a brutal loss at the hands of rivals Liverpool. It was undoubtedly United’s worst performance of the season, and the defence that had only conceded six goals in the preceding fifteen games let in three. To secure their spot in the top three, the game at Villa Park (on United manager Marc Skinner’s birthday) had to finish with three points.

Considering this, Skinner surprised fans by dropping stalwart Dutch midfielder Dominique Janssen to the bench. Janssen is known for her ability to protect the defence and move the ball around the midfield, making crucial challenges and having a seemingly innate ability to win almost every ground duel she encounters. At this moment it is unclear if she has developed an injury, or if she was being rested due to fixture congestion.

From the whistle, United dominated possession. A criticism levelled against possession based teams is that holding on to the ball is useless if nothing is done with it. United have been guilty of this at times, however this was never a feature of their game at Villa Park.

Instead of cautious passes around the midfield and back to the defence, they made every attempt to pass the ball forward. The visitors managed five shots in the opening fifteen minutes, including a double chance for Ella Toone.

United made this count in the 22nd minute. From a weak Villa counter-attack, Jade Riviere passed the ball to Celin Bizet, who knew exactly where her Norwegian compatriot would be. Elizabeth Terland notched her eighth goal of the season, and United were up and running. It only took nine minutes for Terland to score her second of the evening, as Riviere provided a sublime ball into the box for an easy header.

Above: Elisabeth Terland celebrates her brace. Photo: @PFA on X

Villa could not retain possession, and lacked cohesion. They did not seem to know what their own style of play should be, so instead they flipped between systems and formations in a chaotic and unconfident way.

Shortly following half-time, Grace Clinton brushed off the Villa defence to score what must be a contender for goal of the season, lobbing the keeper from near the half way line.

Celin Bizet was forced off following a mistimed challenge from Danielle Turner, in considerable distress. United fans felt the resulting yellow card should have been red, and it was perhaps a sense of injustice which gave United even more motivation to push forward and improve their goal difference. Terland almost scored her third, and United were relentless.

United’s fourth goal eventually came from Leah Galton, following an unselfish pass from Terland, who chose to give up her second opportunity for a hat trick.

Villa were resolutely beaten and appeared dejected. With matches against Liverpool and Arsenal still to come, the midlands side will be desperate to come up with some new ideas to avoid their sixth consecutive defeat. For United, they will be looking to keep momentum and prove that the Liverpool defeat was an anomaly. Given their final three games include Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City, their upcoming game against a resurgent Everton is all the more important.

TEAMS: ASTON VILLA: D’Angelo, Grant, Parker, Patten, Turnier, Tomas, Kearns, Nobbs, Baijings, Daly, Nunes. Substitutes: Talbert, Sallaway (for Tomas 76′), Pacheco (for Turner 60′), Maltby, Staniforth (for Baijings 60′), Taylor, Robinson (for Grant 82′), Hanson, Salmon (for Nunes 60′).

MANCHESTER UNITED: Tullis-Joyce, George, Turner, Le Tissier, Riviere, Miyazawa, Clinton, Galton, Toone, Bizet, Terland. Substitutes: Middleton-Patel, Rendell, Janssen, Sandberg (for George 46′), Mannion (for Riviere 88′), Naalsund, Awujo, Malard (for Bizet 56′), Williams (for Sandberg 69′).

Scorers: Terland 22’, 31’, Clinton 45’, Galton 64’

Referee: Emily Heaslip

Attendance: TBC

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Cuthbert’s late header seals points for Chelsea against City

Chelsea 2-1 Manchester City

By Freya Hiscott (23/03/25)

Above: Erin Cuthbert celebrating after securing three points for Chelsea. Photo: Chelsea Women on Instagram

Erin Cuthbert’s header sealed a 2-1 victory in injury-time for Chelsea in their WSL fixture against Manchester City after a dominant second-half performance saw them come from behind.

Since Vivianne Miedema’s brace inflicted Chelsea’s first defeat this season in Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final tie, Chelsea came out looking to retain their winning ways. The defeat at the Joie Stadium ended Chelsea’s 31-game unbeaten streak and it was Chelsea manager, Sonia Bompastor’s first loss since joining the club from Lyon last year.

The impact of Kerolin Nicoli

Above: Kerolin celebrating with City fans after her opening goal. Photo: Manchester City Women on Instagram

Kerolin Nicoli recently signed for this Manchester City side in the January transfer window, joining from NWSL club North Carolina Courage. Kerolin had two notable chances in early minutes of the game where she was pressing hard on Chelsea’s defence and driving the ball into their half.

Nick Cushing’s team looked as though they would secure a back-to-back victory as City were dominant in attack throughout the first half. Kerolin Nicoli was instrumental in leading the attack and scored the opening goal for the blues in the 32nd minute. Kerolin received the ball on the right edge of Chelsea’s box and skilfully slotted the ball through Chelsea captain, Millie Bright’s legs into the bottom left corner of the net, marking her first WSL goal since joining this City side.

Shortly after Kerolin was involved in a move that saw Jess Park controversially have a goal disallowed. Kerolin was fouled by Bright on the edge of the box, when the ball fell to Park as she curled it into the back of the net. However, referee Kirsty Dowle had already blown for a foul on Kerolin and called for a free kick, which subsequently left the score line remaining 1-0 to City going into half time.

Chelsea’s second half dominant display

With a compelling lead in the top spot of the WSL table, Chelsea could afford a draw but as typical champions they fought for the win, as they look to lift their sixth consecutive Women’s Super League title.

Chelsea came out in full force after having zero shots on target in the first half and they were awarded when Beever-Jones found the back of the net with the help of Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s skilful cutback. City were quick to suffer the consequences of not closing Chelsea down fast enough as Beever-Jones’s goal meant it was level early on in the second half.

Khiara Keating was one of City’s notable star players as she heroically saved goals from Wieke Kaptein, Lauren James and Rytting Kaneryd. However, it took Chelsea substitute, Erin Cuthbert to finish the game off when she came on in the 55th minute to replace Maika Hamano.

Ashley Lawrence’s cross into the far corner met Cuthbert’s head as she directed it straight into the back of the net with only a couple of minutes of injury-time left to play.

Manchester City now sit seven points away from top three, fighting for a spot in the Champion’s League next season.

Interim head coach Cushing will be looking to tighten up defensively especically in counterattacks as City struggled to maintain possession in the latter stages of the game. City showed that whilst they can trouble Chelsea, they’ll need to maintain dominance throughout if they want to progress in the Champion’s League and salvage their chances of silverware this season. The blues will head down to Chelsea on Thursday to close off what will be their fourth fixture against Chelsea this month across various competitions. City are already 2-0 up on aggregate and will push to secure a spot in the semi-finals.

Lineups:

CITY (4-3-3): Keating, Casparij, Prior, Aleixandri (Captain), Layzell. Hasegawa, Roord, Coombs, Kerolin, Park, Miedema

Scorer: Kerolin (32′)

Substitutes: Annets, Startup, Ouahabi (89′), Fowler (58′), Weinroither (80′), Oyama, Murphy (80′), Davies

CHELSEA (4-2-3-1): Hampton, Lawrence, Bright (Captain), Bronze, Charles, Jean-Francois, Kaptein, James, Hamano, Kaneryd, Beever-Jones

Substitutes: Spencer, Bjorn, Baltimore, Walsh (63′), Cuthbert (55′), Macario (87′), Nusken, Fishel (87′), Ramirez (63′)

Scorers: Beever-Jones (49′) Cuthbert (90+1′)

Referee: Kirsty Dowle

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Adelaide claim the points in second half thriller

Adelaide United 3-1 Brisbane Roar

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (23/5/25)

Above: Adelaide United celebrate in their come-from-behind win over Brisbane Roar today. Photo: Adelaide United.

Adelaide United have proven themselves more than deserving of their third-place position on the Ninja A-League ladder, as they came out victorious in a fiery battle against Brisbane Roar at Coopers Stadium this afternoon in front of their second-highest crowd for a standalone women’s game. 

It was impact substitutes Fiona Worts and Erin Healy who changed the game, not only earning a win for the hosts, but transforming a tense yet, somewhat uneventful first half, into a riveting afternoon of football. 

The first few minutes of the match saw an uncharacteristic lack of momentum from both sides, which left fans at either end nervous and unsure of what the outcome would be going forward, especially considering the weight of this fixture.

With three points to take home, a win would be crucial in order for Brisbane to maintain their current position on the ladder, while Adelaide would be looking to prove their place among top sides Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory. 

Although the spirit of the match was back and forth until the end, there was a definite shift as the strength of Adelaide’s back line lit a fire under a trapped Brisbane Roar that brought a sense of urgency to the pitch. 

A shot on target from Alicia Wood almost put Brisbane in the lead in the 25th minute, however, a wonderful save from Claudia Jenkins meant the visitors did not yet find the back of the net. While the strike did not result in a goal for Roar, it did establish their tactical dominance early on, which would leave them the favourites for a majority of this match, despite Adelaide holding most of the possession. 

Congestion in the midfield made it difficult for Brisbane to cut through and really lean into their attacking strength in the first half, allowing Adelaide to take a large portion of the many chances. Although it was the hosts that brought the impetus to the pitch, capitalising on far more opportunities, Brisbane ultimately had the better of the chances, getting dangerously close each time they did manage to break the defense. 

With frustrations rising, the match became quite physical, when the 27th minute saw Roar’s Laini Freier receive a yellow card, following a shoving match with Lucia Leon, setting a precedent for what would continue to be a contentious match that could not be looked away from. 

The second half opened quite passively, as did the first, and although the game remained entertaining, neither side was really showing the capabilities that they have proven to possess so far this campaign. 

Mariel Hecher opened the scoring in the 53rd minute putting Brisbane Roar in the lead, when she intercepted the ball from Adelaide’s defence. 

Adelaide responded by making a double substitution, as Emily Hodgson and Nanako Sasaki, made way for Fiona Worst and Erin Healy, respectively. Worts and Healy have been a crucial part of the Reds’ squad in what has been an extremely successful campaign for the hosts this season, and their absence in the starting lineup was truly noticed, as was their presence in the second half. 

The substitution quickly proved to be an impactful one, as Fiona Worts scored the equaliser, assisted by Chelsie Dawber, just two minutes after entering the match. 

Tensions continued to build as the meeting was now anyone’s game, and the desperation from both sides could be felt, as Brisbane Roar finally brought the passion they are so well known for to the pitch. 

Healy took a chance as Adelaide’s second goal, with a fantastic ball on target, that ultimately ended too high, flying just over the crossbar. 

It was Worts who put Adelaide in the lead, earning her second goal of the match in the 86th minute, as a result of Dylan Holmes’ set piece. Although just four minutes left of regulation, Adelaide did not get comfortable on the pitch, as Brisbane capitalised on every remaining moment in search of an equaliser. 

The uninhibited passion brought to the tail end of the game, resulting in Chelsie Dawber being fouled by Deborah-Anne de la Harpe, which gave Adelaide a penalty in the 90th minute. It was Dawber herself who took the shot, striking the ball directly to the back of the net, and leaving South Australian side a two-goal lead, in the final minute of regulation time. 

The result earns Adelaide United an important three points, which have leaves them third on the ladder, just two points below Melbourne Victory, while Brisbane Roar now sit in sixth place, with only one point over Canberra United and a large group of chasing teams.

Round 21 will be crucial for both of these sides, as Adelaide United head to AAMI Park to face Melbourne Victory, in what is set to be one of the most defining, and thrilling head to head battles of the season thus far. Meanwhile, Brisbane Roar will also go on the road, taking on Central Coast Mariners at Industree Group Stadium. The Mariners currently sit just one position above Roar on the ladder, and the meeting is sure to be as gripping as it is unpredictable. 

Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED (3-4-3): Jenkins, E. Hodgson, Leon, Tolland, Tinkin, McNamara, Morgan, Holmes, Sasaki, Condon, Dawber. Substitutions: Karambasis, I. Hodgson, Healy, Worts, Melegh.

Scorers: Worts 64’, 86’, Dawber 90’. 

BRISBANE ROAR (3-4-2-1): Richards, de la Harpe, McQueen, Blissett, Pringle, Hayashi, Woods, Hecher, L. Freier, Popadinova. Substitutes: Varley, Kinsella, Kruger, Morris, Gibbon.

Scorers: Hecher 52’.

Referee: Mikayla Ryan.

Attendance: 3,305.

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Melbourne City into Champions League Semi-Finals

Melbourne City 3-0 Taichung Blue Whale

By Emma Burke at AAMI Park (23/3/25)

Above: Taylor Otto (left) and Rebekah Stott. Photo: Melbourne City

Melbourne City have cruised through to the Asian Women’s Champions League Semi-Finals after defeating Taichung Blue Whale 3-0 at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.

City opened the scoring through a corner play that ended in Mariana Speckmaier sending the ball careening into the roof of the net.

Their lead was doubled by an own goal just before the end of the first half, when Holly McNamara’s cross into the box took an unfortunate deflection off both defender Pei-Jung Li, and goalkeeper Ming-Jung Tsai.

The second half saw the game open up more, with Taichung looking to press higher on City’s backline.

Despite this, City found another goal from a penalty won and converted by Holly McNamara. McNamara was taken down in the box by Taichung’s keeper, and then from the spot delivered the ball hard and fast into the far right corner.

In a moment just after play restarted, McNamara ended up on the pitch clutching at her right knee, a potential cause for concern given that she has had three ACL reconstructions in her short playing career, but she was able to leave the pitch by herself, and was seen after the final whistle in good spirits and moving freely.

Their next clear goal-scoring opportunity came when substitute Emilia Murray was also taken down in the box by the keeper, however this time the spot kick taken by Leticia McKenna was sent almost directly at the keeper, and she was unable to convert on a second attempt. 

This win sees City head into a centralised hub alongside the other three teams remaining to play out their semi-final against Incheon Red Angels from Korea Republic before the grand final, with a location to soon be finalised. 

Impetus had photographers Adrian Geremaia and Beck Hartley at AAMI Park – go to our Instagram page (@ImpetusFootball) to see their exclusive photo galleries for us.

Teams: MELBOURNE CITY (4-2-3-1): Mieres, Apostolakis, Stott, Otto, Roestbakken, Hughes, McKenna, Bosch, Pollicina, Speckmaier, McNamara. Substitutions: McMahon, Vlajnic, Henry, Murray, Karic, Rossi, Barbieri, Varley, Accardo, Davidson, Myers

Scorers: Speckmaier 4’, Li 43’ (OG), McNamara 63’ (pen).

TAICHUNG BLUE WHALE (5-4-1): Tsai, Huang, Tanaka, Li, Chang, Peng-Ngam, J. Chen, Intamee, Lin, Sornsai, Y. Chen. Substitutes: Y. S. Lin, J. X. Lin, C. Y. Liu, C. Y. Nien, Y. C. Pan

Referee: Kim Yu Jeong.

Crowd: 1,865.

Foletta Keeps Glory’s Finals Dream Alive

Perth Glory 1-0 Western Sydney Wanderers

By Isabelle Campbell 22/3/25

Photography By Rob Lizzi

Above: Perth Glory celebrate Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus

It was a must win match at Sam Kerr Football Centre for both Perth Glory and the travelling Western Sydney Wanderers, with both sides looking to keep the possibility of a top 6 finish alive, but thanks to a last-minute strike from Izzy Foletta it was the home side who continued on their finals quest.

In a crucial bottom-of-the-table showdown, Perth Glory hosted Western Sydney Wanderers at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with both teams fighting to climb out of the A-League basement. Coming off a dramatic 3-3 draw against Central Coast Mariners at Industree Group Stadium, Glory sat 11th, just ahead of the Wanderers in 12th place. With both sides struggling for consistency, this encounter was set to be a vital chance for either team to gain ground.

Perth Glory came out strong from the first whistle, asserting dominance with early possession. Though neither side was able to create any serious chances in the opening 10 minutes, it was evident that Perth Glory were the more likely side to break the deadlock, consistently pressing forward and controlling the tempo.

Above: Susan Phonsongkham shows her glee at Perth Glory’s winning goal. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus


As the match progressed, the Wanderers began to find their rhythm in attack. Ella Buchanan delivered a perfectly weighted long-range ball to Sienna Saveska, but the forward, under pressure, failed to convert the opportunity. Glory’s leading goal scorer, Kelli Brown, then had a great chance to open the scoring but was denied by Wanderers defender Amy Harrison, who made a crucial block to keep the match level.

Izzy Dalton, the Perth Glory captain, had another chance to break the deadlock with a shot on goal, but her attempt was deflected, preventing any real threat to the Wanderers’ defense. At the other end, Bronte Trew made a promising run but could not find the right position inside the box before the Glory defense cleared the ball and regained control.

With the first half winding down, both teams had registered an equal number of shots, but the Wanderers were yet to test the Perth Glory goalkeeper, failing to record a single shot on target.

The second half of the match began slowly, with both teams struggling to create clear cut chances. It wasn’t until the 56th minute that the first real opportunity arose, as Glory’s Kelli Brown unleashed a strike from outside the box, but the shot was unable to make a difference. A minute later, Brown tested Wanderers goalkeeper Sham Khamis once again, but the shot was saved, keeping the scoreline level.

As the game progressed, the movement on the field became more scrappy, with both teams locked in a battle for possession in midfield. Neither side could break into a dangerous attacking position, and the match seemed to stagnate.

In the 68th minute, Natalie Tathem fired the first meaningful shot in quite some time, but her effort lacked power and failed to trouble the keeper. As the match entered the final stages, both teams had shots on goal, but none produced any real threat to the scoreline, and the tension in the game continued to rise.

With just seconds left in regulation time, the match took a dramatic turn. Having only been on the pitch for a brief period, Izzy Foletta made an immediate impact, scoring her first goal of the season to put Perth Glory ahead and keep their finals hopes alive.

Still with four minutes of extra time to play, the Wanderers desperately sought an equalizer, but it was beyond their reach. Foletta’s goal proved to be the decisive moment, and the match ended with Perth Glory securing a hard-fought victory, to the delight of an elated home crowd.

Western Sydney Wanderers will be returning home to host Sydney FC in the next round while Perth Glory will remain home and prepare for another important match in their quest for a finals place, against Canberra United.

Above: Perth Glory celebrate their late winner. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.


Check out our Instagram page @impetusfootball for more of Rob Lizzi’s superb images from the game for Impetus.

Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Dumont, Johnston, McKenna, Wynne, Cassidy, Tathem, Chinama, O’Donoghue, Dalton, Zogg, Brown. Substitutes: Templeman, Foletta, Wainwright, Lincoln, Phonsongkham.

Goals: Foletta 91’

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-2-3-1): Khamis, Buchanan, Harrison, McComasky, Matos, Chessari, Younis, Price, Saveska, Trew, Rue. Substitutes: Bennett, Harding, Kapetanellis, Caspers, Segavcic.

Referee: Bec Mackie

Attendance: 996.

Hawkesby strike wins it for Sydney FC

Canberra United 0-1 Sydney FC

By Kieran Yap

Above: Mackenzie Hawkesby and Sydney FC after their vital win Photo: Sydney FC

Sydney FC have dealt Canberra United’s season a damaging blow with a 1-0 win away at Mckellar Park. Mckenzie Hawkesby scored the only goal in a game that was not short of chances, and where the home side was controversially denied one of their own.

Sydney FC came into this game looking for their second consecutive win and their fifth of the season. They faced a Canberra United side who still had finals football in their sights and lost in a 4-3 thriller against Western United the previous week.

Sydney FC continued with Mackenzie Hawkesby in attack. She spearheaded a side that light on experience but brimming with potential. Lucy Johnson was the only member of the midfield that was not a teenager. The Tasmanian was joined by Young Matildas Indiana dos Santos, Caley Tallon-Henniker, Shay Hollman  and Maddie Caspers.

Canberra United rotated again after their second interstate match in two weeks. Emma Robers, Teagan Bertolissio and Mary Stanic-Floody all came into the starting XI for the must-win game.

The home side had the first great chance of the game. Sending a scare through Sydney FC fans as a Robers corner kick was headed onto the crossbar by Bertolissio.

Jordan Thompson and Tori Tumeth both had swings at a loose ball following a Sydney FC corner, but as it was at the other end, the ball could not find the back of the net.

Michelle Heyman’s pass almost set up Aideen Keane for an easy finish, but the young striker was slightly off balance as she met the ball, and Sydney FC were spared again.

As the hour mark approached, Juric turned to his bench and introduced Shea Connors and Millie Farrow into the contest. The pace and directness of Connors in particular caused immediate problems for Canberra’s central defenders. Her run through the middle and left foot effort brought the best out of Sally James.

Madison Ayson thought she had given Canberra United the lead when she turned another corner goalward, the referee’s assistant was better placed to judge than the camera angle on the broadcast, but it looked to be across the line on screens and the home crowd agreed.

That would prove fateful, and in the 78th minute Indiana dos Santos broke free into space behind the Canberra defence. She kept her cool and played a ball across to Hawkesby who slotted home the only goal of the match. It was another impressive contribution by dos Santos. The 17 year old playmaker has obvious ability, but her decision making in the final third is what sets her apart from many in the league. This was another example of why she was signed to a two year extension earlier this season.

A late effort from Keane was blocked by Thompson and Sydney finished the game ahead by the slimmest of margins. They are still closer to the bottom of the ladder than they are the top six, but, mathematically their season is still alive.

A win in next week’s Sydney Derby can make things very interesting, while Canberra United face a tricky away trip to face Perth Glory.

Teams: Canberra United 4-5-1: James, Bertolissio, Ayson, Anton, Taylor-Young, Markovski, Robers, Stanic-Floody, Malone, Keane, Heyman. Substitutes: Mckenzie, Murray, J dos Santos, Christopherson, Majstorovic.

Sydney FC 4-1-4-1: Black, Tumeth, Thompson, Tobin, Lemon, Hollman, Tallon-Henniker, I dos Santos, Johnson, Caspers, Hawkesby. Substitutes: Farrow, Connors, Ibini, Bryson, Mason-Jones.

Goals: Hawkesby 78’.

Referee: Rachael Mitchenson.

Attendance: 2,194.

Mariners claim vital win in Finals race

Wellington Phoenix 0-2 Central Coast Mariners

by Alyce Collett (22/3/25)

Above: Central Coast Mariners celebrate during their win in New Zealand today. Photo: A-Leagues.

The Central Coast Mariners have given their finals hopes a handy boost after defeating the Wellington Phoenix 2-0 at Porirua Park this afternoon.

In a match characterised by who made the most of their chances, goals to Annalise Rasmussen and Isabel Gomez helped the Mariners further cement their spot in the top six and give themselves more breathing room in front of the chasing pack.

The Wellington Phoenix were a team on a mission early, with the home side dominating the attacking play and looking far more organised than their visitors.

However, no matter how hard the Phoenix tried they just could not find the back of the net, with Sarah Langman really keeping her side in the match despite everything the likes of Alyssa Whinham, Annalie Longo, and Gace Jale were throwing her way.

As the half-hour mark approached it was the Mariners who picked up the best chance of the half to date – going within inches of a goal – totally against the run of play.

This was also the point in the match when things started to get a bit heated as frustrations from both sides started to boil over.

As the half progressed, the visitors stabilised and their composure in structure and with possession returned. They really made the home side pay for their inability to convert their attacking dominance.

In the shadows of halftime, Rasmussen was brought down in the box and converted the subsequent penalty, giving the Mariners the lead.

Phoenix started the second half a bit like they did the first in terms of dominating possession, but not even 10 minutes into the half Central Coast again made the hosts pay for not taking their chances after Gomez’s strike from distance gave the visitors a second goal.

The second goal really seemed to take the air out of the Phoenix, who really found themselves on the back foot. Suddenly the roles had been flipped, and the Mariners were the ones who looked more composed and dominant with the ball. With the likes of Jade Pennock in particular really starting to become influential on the game.

Phoenix certainly had their moments in attack, but it was nowhere near as dangerous as in the first half, irrespective of the improvement in the defensive positioning the Mariners’ defenders had made.

Teams: WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-4-2): Vilão, Wall, Kelly, Barry, McMeeken, Jale, Longo, McCutcheon, Whinham, Elliot, Fergusson. Substitutes:  Brazendale, Ingham, Jerez, Tanaka, Neary.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-2-3-1): Langman, Rowe, Nash, Ray, Martin, Gomez, Galic, Pennock, Nunn, Trimis, Rasmussen. Substitutes: Carmichael, Fuller, Hughes, Puxty, Quilligan.

Scorers: Rasmussen 45+1’, Gomez 52’.

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello.

Attendance: 765.

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