Perth Glory’s Stephen Peters and Mischa Anderson: “Our League Seems to Get Forgotten”

Above: Stephen Peters talks to the press. Image: Perth Glory.

By Ella McShane (15/1/26)

Perth Glory’s Stephen Peters and Mischa Anderson preview what is set to be a dynamic top of the table clash with Central Coast Mariners. 

Round 13 coincides with the launch of the Professional Footballer’s Australia’s (PFA) ‘Ready for Takeoff’ vision. A “comprehensive public analysis of the womens game in Australia” that “sets out 21 recommendations to deliver a world class fully professional A-League Women competition” (PFA, 2026). 

This has generated discourse across the league in regard to player conditions, the leagues inability to capitalise on the success of the 2023 Women’s World Cup and what will constitute a bright future for womens football in Australia. 

“Our league seems to get forgotten in the whole process.” Stated Peters when asked about the issues outlined. 

“Everyone obviously celebrates the success of the Matildas, which is incredible, but is that money  being reinvested into the league in the way it should be?”

“From a fan perspective, I think they could be doing more. But its obviously a money issue.” 

“Where does the money come from? I don’t know.”

“But we’ve got to catch up…I went to the netball and I was amazed at the size of the crowd and the interaction of the supporters” 

“I think the conditions for the players needs to improve, and the salary needs to improve so they don’t have to work two jobs. It’s a very difficult set up for the girls.”

Defender Mischa Anderson echoed Peters’ sentiments regarding the need to improve player conditions, while also highlighting the benefits of the intimate atmosphere at Sam Kerr Football Centre and how it can enhance performances.

Above: Mischa Anderson talks to the press. Image: Perth Glory.

“At Sam Kerr, the fans help us a lot during games. If we can get more of them, it will lift our performances even further,” Anderson said.

Looking to the opponent, this weekends match up has shaped up to be a top 5 clash despite Glory’s less than ideal start to the season.

The main messaging to players heading into this weekend has been: “Find some consistency.”

There is also an understanding that, while the team is “quite pleased with where [they] are sitting at the moment,” external distractions must be avoided.“If you start ladder watching, it’s not going to get you anywhere.” Stated Peters 

Attention has instead turned to addressing shortcomings away from home, with Peters acknowledging: “We’re not very good away from home, so there is a good challenge there for us.”

When asked for potential reasoning as to the squad’s short comings away from home Peters detailed that “It is hard to quantify…there is something there I’m  just not sure exactly what, we are a more robust and enthusiastic side at home…whether its we’ve got the twelfth man at Sam Kerr or we just can’t travel well” 

“Hand on heart I feel like every game that we have travelled to we have travelled well.” 

Rola Badawiya completed a full training session and a return to the team sheet is looking hopeful for the weekend. 

Round 13 of the ALW will take place at 5pm AWST Sunday the 18th of January at Polytec Stadium. Streaming for free of 10Play and Paramount+. 

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“We’re really proud to embrace it”: Victory ready for Pride Cup showdown

Above: Melbourne Victory celebrates in last year’s semi-final against Adelaide. Image: A-Leagues.

By Isabelle Campbell (15/01/26)

With the Pride Cup returning this weekend, the stage is set for another chapter in one of the A-League Women’s most compelling rivalries, as Melbourne Victory travel to face Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium.

The fixture carries weight on multiple fronts: a long-standing rivalry, a crucial opportunity to reset momentum, and the significance of a match that celebrates inclusion across the league.

Defender Claudia Bunge says the group is embracing the moment.

“Really motivated. We’ve had a big week of training. The games against Adelaide, there always is a bit of extra rivalry there, and it’s usually pretty close. Usually one goal, two goals in it. So the girls are really excited and really motivated.”

Victory head into the Pride Cup following a home loss to Brisbane Roar, with the focus now shifting firmly to the next challenge. Bunge says the group has spent the week on the training track working through areas identified from that performance as they prepare for Adelaide.

“I think we made moves against Brisbane. I think collectively, we played better than what we had previous weeks, to concede off a corner is always really hard, but it’s just those finer margins. I think that’s something we’ve struggled with this year, is just tightening up around transition moments and the finer details. So that’s something we’ve been working on, and something we’re going to look at going into against Adelaide.”

Despite an inconsistent run of results, both players and staff believe the group is close to unlocking its full potential. Bunge pointed to the squad’s internal accountability and belief.

“Everyone’s really transparent and is looking inwards, individual things that we can do as players to carry the team forward. I think we did see some positive signs against Brisbane. It was unfortunate to concede, pretty sure it was almost straight off the corner. So those ones do sting a little, but it doesn’t change anything that we do. I think we’ve got a great squad. We’ve got great depth. The club’s really supportive of us, our staff are amazing. So we’re just gonna keep to our guns, keep to our processes. And I’m hoping that it can land on the pitch.”

For Victory, the Pride Cup adds another layer of meaning. The fixture has become a significant moment on the calendar, particularly for the women’s program.

“It’s massive for our team and for women’s football in general. I think women’s football is really encouraging and really open and inclusive, which is great, and we’re really proud as a team to get a chance to embrace that. We’re really looking forward to the pride cup. It’s always a big occasion each year. And matched with playing Adelaide, we’re really excited. Looking forward to playing it against the Reds.”

Head coach Jeff Hopkins echoed that sentiment, reinforcing that the Pride Cup is not just a one-off occasion, but something embedded in the club’s identity.

“It’s a game that we look forward to. We’re 100% behind the pride Cup and the concept. In terms of this week, it’s great to highlight a few things. We’re having educational sessions this week, our staff, our players, and we kind of embrace those. But also, I think in the bigger picture, it’s important that we show that we are an inclusive team, an inclusive club. And we get out there every week, and we kind of live that rather than just think about being about this week. I think the thing I love about this club is the fact that it is welcoming and inclusive to everyone, and I hope that our team just shows that as well.”

Reflecting on the Brisbane loss, Hopkins felt the performance showed how close Victory are to turning results around.

“It was a pretty scrappy game that came down to a mistake in an area where we’re normally very, very strong. The game could have gone either way. I thought we actually controlled periods of the game without really creating enough to actually win the game.”

“We’re not far away. It’s just that little, magic ingredient that we’re missing, that we’re searching for as well, and when we find it, and we’re getting close, well good luck to the team that’s playing us that weekend.”

That belief is matched by confidence heading into a venue where Victory have historically performed well.

“It’s always a great game against them. They’re a quality side, and we love playing at Coopers. It’s a great surface, a great stadium, great atmosphere. Always a decent crowd there, and with the double header this weekend, should be even better.”

With rivalry, Pride Cup significance, and season-shaping stakes all colliding, Victory face an opportunity in Adelaide to reset their campaign on a night that carries weight well beyond the result.

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Lancaster rocket returns Jets to the winners list

Sydney FC 1-2 Newcastle Jets

By Kieran Yap 13/1/26

Above: Charlotte Lancaster. Photo: A–League

The Newcastle Jets have beaten Sydney FC 2-1 thanks to a late Charlotte Lancaster strike in injury time. The visitors had to come from behind after Amelia Cassar opened the scoring at Leichhardt Oval, but goals from Melina Ayres and Lancasters winner secured the points for Newcastle.

Ante Juric’s side was trying to avoid an unwanted record. Another game without scoring would make it six in a row, the first time any side in the league achieved such an unenviable feat.

Sydney looked eager to break that streak early, Bianca Galic’s effort from a cutback was blocked and Skye Halmarick was close to her first A-League goal with a headed attempt.

Sarah Hunter was deployed in a slightly more advanced role than where she has spent much of her career. The midfielder sat behind the front three, moving the ball quickly to the wingers on either side.

While Newcastle did not look under pressure, they still struggled to get a foothold in the early stages. Sydney looked more likely to score and when it arrived, it was special.

Cassar received the ball wide on the right almost 25 yards from goal and spotted Anns Leat off her line. With composure, class and skill, she lifted the ball over the goalkeeper to open to scoring, and add her name to the list of likely goal of the season contenders.

Newcastle had created few chances when they drew level, but Melina Ayres only needs one. Lauren Allan sent in a high looping cross that fell to Ayres. The Jets striker had all the time she needed to position herself and finish into the far bottom corner to level the scores.

Despite the equaliser, Sydney FC continued to control the majority of the game. With Newcastle’s defence organized and sitting deep, they found it hard to create clear cut chances or get behind the back four. A long range volley from Sarah Hunter had Leat scrambling to save, but there was nobody to follow up the parried effort.

Somewhat against the run of play, the Jets almost took the lead. Tash Prior and Cass Davis were patient in the buildup and Joei Allan was classy on the wing to find Haley Johnson in space, but the striker hesitated slightly and that was enough for Sydney to clear the danger.

Newcastle’s confidence was growing and the game was opening up. Davis’s run through the middle released Ayres and her powerful shot brought the best out of Heather Hinz. The Sydney FC goalkeeper was called into action again moments later to deny Josie Allan.

Sydney FC regrained momentum and went int search of a winner. Substitute, Claire Cornett tested Leat from an angle, and Hana Lowry’s free kick came close, but did not trouble Leat.

With the game headed for a draw, Lancaster delivered something special. Her long range rocket in the dying stages was spectacular in style and devastating in impact. It delivered the killer blow and three points to the Jets, returning them to the winners list after a month of consecutive defeats.

Teams: SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Hinz, Tumeth, Fenton, Pearson, Lemon, Lowry, Hunter, Galic, Cassar, Halmarick, Tanner. Substitutes: Robertson, Ayson, Moise, Corbett, Luchtmeijer, Sullivan.

Goals: Cassar 18’

NEWCASTLE JETS (4-3-3): Leat, Cicco, Prior, Wilson, Breier, Davis, Hoban, J Allan, L Allan, Johnson, Ayres. Substitutes: Dundas, Copus-Brown, Lancaster, Ritchie, Collins, Brown.

Goals: Ayres 29’ Lancaster 90’

Referee: TBC

Attendance:  TBC

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Big ambitions, even bigger moves: The WSL transfer window so far

By Emme Fortnam (13/1/26)

Above: Jenna Nighswonger signing for Aston Villa Photo: Aston Villa FC

Making an Impetus debut, Emme Fortnam rounds up the main stories from the WSL January transfer window so far.

The current winter transfer window started on 2 January 2026 and ends on 3 February 2026. It is a time for players to show off their skills and create a bigger name for themselves. This transfer window has been pretty busy so far, with big moves from Leicester and high-profile loans from clubs like Arsenal, Man United and Chelsea.

Starting with loans – we have seen Jenna Nighswonger go on loan to Aston Villa, creating some waves throughout the Arsenal fanbase given her use this year by Renee Slegers. There’s a feeling from within the Gooners that they didn’t get a chance to see Nighswonger at her best, while Aston Villa exclaimed their excitement and eagerness to work with the full back who would “she would add real quality” to a team in fine form at the moment, with a victory over Brighton giving them sixth place in the WSL for now.

London rivals Chelsea have seen two loan departures, Maika Hamano to Tottenham and Mara Alber heading over to Werder Bremen. Both moves received a neutral reaction within the media and the fans, who understood that gaining experience and development from getting consistent playing time was necessary.

Hannah Blundell is also currently on loan following this transfer window, from Man United to Everton. In her new surroundings at Goodison Park, the left back has said she is very excited to contribute to the pitch and work with new players. Given her winning experience across her career and her defending skills, Blundell certainly has the ability to help build some momentum for the second half of Everton’s season.

Moving on to some standout deals in this transfer window, Ashleigh Neville’s permanent move from Spurs to Leicester could’ve started better. Just 3 days after the move was made, Neville faced her old team in a WSL match, scoring an own goal. The Spurs icon still seemed very positive about the move, and the first match is never going to be defining for her Leicester career.

Arsenal made a strong addition with the signing of Smilla Holmberg from Hammarby. The young Swede debuted on Saturday as Marc Skinner’s team travelled to the Emirates, where her energy and presence down the right was noticeable in her 14-minute cameo and offered some early excitement for Arsenal supporters in a season full of frustration.

Spurs’ Scandinavian invasion makes the prospect of a genuine fight for third place realistic, especially after Signe Gaupset stole the show in her very first start this weekend. Julie Blakstad comes back to the WSL rejuvenated, never having broken into the Manchester City team she featured in before. Defensive options Hanna Wijk and Matilda Nilden will both experience football outside of Sweden for the first time and offer Martin Ho depth in that area of the pitch.

Obviously we are only 19 days into the winter transfer window, and there will definitely be some more notable transfer – with Sam Coffey’s move to current leaders Man City all but confirmed, but already we have seen huge changes up and down the league. The whole dynamic of the WSL looks different, and that is exciting as we head into 2026 and the last half of games in the season.

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Brisbane secure victory against Melbourne

Melbourne Victory 0-1 Brisbane Roar

Alice de Koster-Kitto 11/01/2026

Photo: Marianna Seidl. Photo: Brisbane Roar

The Home of The Matildas saw visitors Brisbane Roar take the points in a 1-0 defeat over Melbourne Victory. The win marks their second against Victory this season, after a 3-2 victory in November.

Brisbane had the advantage at the start, as the wind made a significant impact on play early on, and they were the initial holders of the possession. It was Victory, however, who had early chances, despite shooting against the wind, with attempts from Kennedy White and Rhianna Pollicina that were intercepted by the Roar defence.

Victory was able to move the ball forward frequently, through the efforts of Pollicina and Holly Furphy, but a lack of allowed space from Brisbane’s backline meant the visitors continued to hold the upper hand.

 An excellent save from Courtney Newbon kept Brisbane Roar from taking the lead in the 18th minute, when a dangerous strike from Bente Jansen caused panic for Victory’s defence.

A clever pass from White to Furphy, who made a great cross that almost amounted to a goal, presented the first real danger for Roar.

Taylor Ray made a cross from distance, straight through the midfield to Pollicina, who tried to shoot on target. While the ball was footed away, it was an excellent build-up from Victory, and it propelled their likelihood of scoring.

A shot outside the box from Daisy Brown that couldn’t quite reach an orange shirt allowed for a corner kick from Marianna Siedle, which could have amounted to an opening goal direct from the corner, but was just wide of the net.

Victory took over the majority of the possession towards the tail end of the first half, while Roar seemed to have better opportunities to open the scoreline. Despite efforts at both ends, neither side could break through during the first half.

There was a new sense of urgency at the top of the second half, and a few moments of physicality, as both sides searched desperately to find the back of the net.

Taylor Ray was a standout for the hosts, as her long balls over the heads of Brisbane’s midfield were able to get Victory out of moments of danger when being trapped by the Roar.

A run from Sharn Freier got the ball to Daisy Brown, who made a phenomenal strike towards goal, which was deflected by Jancevski at the last minute, sending it just over the crossbar. Brown continued to come close to opening the scoreline when another shot bounced off the crossbar.

The 19-year-old’s efforts came to fruition in the 56th, heading the ball in off a Siedl corner. There was some debate as to whether the goal was awarded to Brown or would be an own goal from Laura Pickett, although the goal was ultimately given to Brown.

As stoppage time approached, the game remained in favour of Brisbane. While there weren’t any particularly close shots at either end, if there was another goal to come, it looked likely it would be from Brisbane, as they continued to dominate, while Victory fell somewhat flat.

Furphy made way for Nicki Flannery in the 71st minute, whose speed gave some power back to Victory, although any chances were quickly intercepted.

Brisbane got alarmingly close to extending their lead, as a run from Kijah Stephenson was not intercepted until the very last second, as it seemed the ball was set to go over the line.

The scoreline was almost equalised, as a ball in from Pollicina met the foot of Whote, who took a shot that was not to be intercepted by Brisbane’s defence. The shot, however, was expertly stopped by Chloe Lincoln.

After 4 minutes of added time, there were no more goals to be found, and victory belonged to Brisbane, although a late shot from Pollicina had the hosts close to equalising.

Melbourne Victory will head to Coopers Stadium in round 13 to take on Adelaide United, while Brisbane will go head-to-head with the Wanderers in Western Sydney.

MELBOURNE VICTORY (4-1-4-1): Newbon, Pickett, Bunge, Morrison, Jancevski, Ray, Furphy, Pollicina, Lowe, Sakalis, White. Substitutes: O’Grady, Woodward, Blissett, Saveska, Flannery, Techera

BRISBANE ROAR (4-2-3-1): Lincoln, Seidl, Varley, Hayashi, Miller, Piazza, Woods, Medwin, Brown, Freier, Jansen. Substitutes: Studer, Meyers, Stephenson, Cuthbert, Kinsella, Franco

Goals: Brown 56’.

Referee: Caitlin Williams.

Attendance: 1,008.

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Jets unable to snap losing streak as Mariners win F3 derby

Newcastle Jets 1 – 2 Central Coast Mariners

by Callum Logie (10/1/26)

Above: Peta Trimis celebrates after scoring against the Newcastle Jets. Photo: via the A-Leagues.

The Central Coast Mariners have quickly bounced back onto the winners list with a 3-2 win over the Newcastle Jets in the F3 Derby. An initial goal to Newcastle through Keli Brown was quickly cancelled out by Peta Trimis, before Annalise Rasmussen scored what turned out to be the match winner.

The game started off with a high energy level, with the Mariners pressing up on the three backs of Newcastle. Avaani Prakash and Annalise Rasmussen were creating pressure and this saw the midfielders often winning the ball forward.

After 6 minutes, Trimis ran onto a ball from over the top and drove a shot near-post. Anna Leat covered her goal very well and held onto her save after the first meaningful shot on target.

The Jets did not have much in the way of possession, but they broke forward with pace when they did get the ball. For example, at the 12 minute mark Charlotte Lancaster ran down the wing and crossed it into the box toward Alexis Collins. However, Tarren King and Annalee Grove were able to use the former’s strength and the latter’s positioning to stop the visitors conceding.

A moment later, Brown had a shot at goal in the box after some excellent link-up play. Brown opted for a delicate finish but directed her effort slightly wide of the goal to keep the game scoreless.

As the game developed, Newcastle adopted something of a route 1 approach, sending long balls forward and looking to create off the second ball.

Central Coast on the other hand were looking for shorter passing plays and pressing off the ball to create pressure.

There was certainly plenty of back and forth play through the middle part of the first half, but nothing to show for it on the scoreboard.

Sadly at 35 minutes, there was a significant stoppage of play after Isabella Coco-Di Sipio went down for the second time in the game. There was no confirmation of what the injury was, but it looked to be related to her right knee as Tiahna Fuller came in earlier than expected to replace her. Coco-Di Sipio was able to leave the field on her own feet which was a positive sign.

The lack of action on the scoreboard changed in the shadows of the half time whistle when Newcastle was rewarded for their great efforts as Libby Copus-Brown won the ball high up the pitch and played in Brown who hit a terrific shot into the top left-corner and opened the scoring for the Jets.

Despite a few more nervy moments in the Mariners defence, the lead remained a single goal at the break.

The second half started quickly, with Fuller firing a shot at goal in the first minute of the half that was blocked by the defence and Sophie Hoban firing a shot in on the other end which was saved by Grove. A minute later, Lancaster forced a more challenging save out of Grove after a run forward and a driven shot at near-post.

In the 53rd minute – seemingly from nothing – Trimis was able to equalise for the Mariners. Prakash played the ball to Trimis on the edge of the box, who then took a speculative shot from distance and was able to find the back of the net.

A minute later, Rasmussen broke forward after winning the ball in a battle with Prior and Claudia Cicco. Her shot was driven over the bar, but the momentum was suddenly back with the Mariners now that the scores were level.

There was a period of the Jets keeping possession for about six minutes in the second half. It did not lead to too many chances, but it did allow the hosts to control the pace and tempo of the game heading into the last half hour.

The game became more physical from this point, with a lot of possession being held in the middle third of the pitch. The Jets held slightly better territory during this period, but the Mariners still looked dangerous breaking forward with Prakash and Trimis in particular.

A Mariners breakaway in the 70th minute led to the league’s leading scorer finding the back of the net once again. Trimis made a run down the right wing and looped the ball into Rasmussen who drove a volley across Leat’s goal and into the back of the net.

Despite going behind on the scoreboard, the Jets did continue to try and create right up until the final whistle. There was a lot of frantic action particularly in the last five minutes of the match, but ultimately the Mariners’ defence held firm and they managed to see out the rest of the game with the lead. 

Teams: NEWCASTLE JETS (3-4-3): Leat, Bates, Cicco, Prior, Lancaster, Copus-Brown, Dundas, Karipidis, Hoban, Collins, Brown. Substitutes: Allan, Allan, Ayres, Davis, Page, Ritchie.

Scorer: Brown 45+2′.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-5-1): Grove, Baumann, King, Thew, Martin, Coco-Di Sipio, Prakash, Kraszula, Quilligan, Trimis, Rasmussen. Substitutes: Buchanan, Farrow, Fuller, Hughes, Levin, Varley.

Scorer: Trimis 53′, Rasmussen 70′.

Referee: Bec Mackie

Attendance: 1,261.

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City gain impressive win in Wellington despite Woods’ debut strike

Wellington Phoenix 1-2 Melbourne City

by Emma Burke (10/1/26)

Above: Wellington Phoenix’s Grace Jale (7) wins a header under heavy pressure with teammate Mackenzie Barry and Melbourne City’s Aideen Keane (black shirt) also competing. Photo: Ryan Imray for Impetus

A goal on debut for American Makala Woods, who recently joined Wellington Phoenix as an injury replacement wasn’t enough for the home side to comeback against Melbourne City, losing the game 2-1 at Porirua Park.

It was the visitors who found the back of the net first in the 16th minute through Leticia McKenna, who expertly finished a cutback pass from Danella Butrus, sending the ball into the top right corner.

Minutes later City would double their lead after Butrus’ angled shot on goal was deflected by Nix keeper Victoria Esson right into the path of Aideen Keane, who only needed to tap the ball over the line.

A dominant first half for Melbourne City truly highlighted the impact that star signing Samba has had on Wellington, with this being their first game played without the Nepalese striker, who was confirmed to have injured her ACL last round against Brisbane Roar.

Above: Manaia Elliott prepares to send in a corner for Wellington Phoenix at Porirua Park today. Photo: Ryan Imray for Impetus.

City’s quality opening half was only marred by an injury to midfielder Leah Davidson that caused her to leave the game and was replaced by Karly Roestbakken.

The second half saw the Phoenix start to work themselves back into the game, helped by the introduction of Woods, who gave the side a focal point for their crosses into the box.

Woods’ goal, a header that was the end product of a perfectly placed cross from Brooke Nunn, did make the six minutes added on frantic for both teams.

Despite this, the cool heads of Melbourne City prevailed, who now move up to the top of the table, and continue their streak of having never lost to the Phoenix since their inclusion in the A-League Women competition.

For Ryan Imray’s full photo gallery from the match for Impetus, head to our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball.

Teams WELLINGTON PHOENIX (3-4-1-2): Esson, Walker, Barry, Van de Meer, Nunn, Brazendale, Jale, Wall, Leon, Main, Vlok. Substitutes: Danieli, Elliot, Pijnenburg, Benson, Woods, Bartlett.

Scorers: Woods 90’.

MELBOURNE CITY (4-4-2): Mieres, Apostolakis, Stott, Otto, Turner, Keane, Davidson, McKenna, Butrus, Uchendu, McNamara. Substitutes: Barbieri, Roestbakken, Henry, Wilson, Jackson, Jugovic.

Scorers: McKenna 16’, Keane 21’.

Referee: Anna-Marie Keighley.

Attendance: 1,301.

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O’Grady and Victory building confidence from comeback in Gosford

By Isabelle Campbell 10/1/26

Above: Ella O’Grady. Photo: Melbourne Victory.

Victory striker Ella O’Grady spoke to the media after a week’s rest about how the last minute heroics against the Mariners is driving the team forward.

Ella O’Grady admits she’s watched her equalising goal from Melbourne Victory’s last match “a couple of times,” noting that rewatching her own goals has become something of a running joke among her teammates.

Coming off the bench against Central Coast Mariners, O’Grady scored the final goal in a blockbuster comeback. Victory were trailing 3-0 at the end of regular time but in what was dubbed a ‘Christmas miracle’ scored three goals in added time to secure a dramatic draw.

Reflecting on the goal that got a point back for her side, O’Grady said:

“Having the mentality that you know you don’t want to lose, and coming back in added time from 3-0 down, that’s quite hard to do, so to have that equaliser, watching it back felt like I had chills down my spine. Unfortunately didn’t get a win, but I’ll take an equaliser.”

When asked whether she felt a little more time on the clock could have delivered a fourth goal, O’Grady was confident:

“Oh, absolutely. I think we had so so much momentum. We almost had it in the last couple minutes. But if we had a bit more time, we probably could have got one more.”

With a bye week following the Mariners clash, the squad had the time to recover and rest, while allowing players to refocus and prepare for the challenges ahead, something O’Grady believes has helped in continuing to build their mindset.

“Having a break over the last couple of weeks, we’ve had a chance to reset. Find some form a little bit again, get the mentality, not just from starting players and bench players, but anyone that’s pushing for a spot in the actual squad as well.”

Looking ahead to their clash with Brisbane at the Home of the Matildas, O’Grady said the team now carries a stronger sense of identity and resilience. She also referenced the earlier meeting this season, when Victory came up short against the Roar.

“We had a new squad, new players coming in, and we kind of didn’t really set the mentality, that Victory mentality, yet. I think it took a while to get there.

“And I think after last week, that just shows what we’re all about as a team. How we can come back and we’re never beaten. So I think going into the game this weekend, we’re coming off that, which is pretty special.”

O’Grady has consistently come off the bench this season, pushing to prove herself and make an impact whenever she steps on the pitch.

“Every every bench player is hoping that they can get some more minutes each week, but I’ll just keep doing my thing during the week and pushing hard for the girls, not only for myself to get some minutes, but so that they’re prepared for the weekend as well.”

Part of what seems to be helping Victory find form this season is the competitive culture within the squad, with players constantly pushing each other to raise their game.

“Competition within the team, having the mindset that someone’s knocking on your door to take your spot. I think it’s quite important as a player, on the bench, for someone trying to get into the squad, and as a starter, it’s quite important to have, so that we’re bringing the intensity each week, fighting for our spots during the week and in the games.”

“If you’re not performing then you’ll come out of that squad for someone else to come in. I think, even in mini games that we’ll do throughout the week, they’re a bit of fun, but they also drive a bit of competition.”

Victory now carry the lessons and confidence from their last match into the Brisbane clash, looking to convert their resilience into consistent performances as the season moves forward.

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League struggles and European chances: Chelsea’s crucial January

By Ben Tattoo (9/1/26)

In his penultimate interview, Ben Tattoo speaks to fan of reigning champions Chelsea, about their season so far and how this could finally be their year in the Champions League

Can you tell me a bit about your history as a fan of Chelsea?

It started with my Dad. I didn’t have any choice in my Italian team and because he’s always been an Arsenal fan, I wanted to be a bit different.

So, I picked Chelsea, that was my history with Chelsea. That was around 2009.  I started watching women’s football in 2012 with the Olympics, and then it stuck.

So that’s how we started, and then I discovered Twitter and built connections and friends around it as well.

Four or five times during the season, I try to come to London or for away games, and when the Champions League is on, that kind of stuff.

How did you feel about the summer transfer business?

I think Chelsea did a lot in January with Girma and Walsh. I think that was like the big thing and they addressed the needs, as we needed to refresh the squad. They started with the defence, and then they did the midfield.

In attack, I don’t feel particularly good about it and I think they left it late with (Alyssa) Thompson. I can’t blame them, you have to wait when you get a player like Thompson.

I think they could have done more maybe at left back and right wing. I think a lot of people would be pretty happy with Chelsea’s squad, but they are underperforming their expected goals (xG) a bit and not creating not scoring as many chances as last season.

How are you thinking about the season so far?

There’s been a lot of chat throughout the season obviously, with the loss against Everton. I’ve not lost my head, like other people have done, because I think we have to lose someday – it’s not realistic to keep winning everything. 

The Champions League has been fine, which is what I think we need to win. It’s the big one. However, if you’re putting everything in one basket, you have to deliver.

You’re probably not going to get a weaker season for Barcelona after (Aitana) Bonmati’s injury and their squad limitations. It’s so thin. They’re going to be knackered by April.

Lyon are very well positioned, but I do think on paper we do have the best squad, it’s time to show it.

Do you ever have concerns or hear any grumblings from players that they’re not getting or see anybody language that you think, or they’re not getting much game time?

I don’t think Sjoeke Nüsken can be happy, that’s probably the big one. When she plays, she’s good. I saw her non-celebration when she scored the final goal against Roma. I think she does feel a bit hard-done by because she is not being played a lot.

Do you think it’s quite hard for young players to get in at Chelsea with their signing power compared to other teams? Lexi Potter for example?

Every time she’s come on, she looks ready to like to have minutes. I do think the fact that we’re not scoring is, like, it has an impact on her, because if when games are very tight, you may not want to bring on a teenager.

I think she could leave (in January), considering we’ve got (Orian) Jean-François as well. she can cover for Keira (Walsh). I do think she’s going to have a big role next season. 

It’s been mixed for young players. Mara Alber, who we bought in the summer, she didn’t look ready in preseason, and she doesn’t get any minutes at all.

However, when you look at Wieke Kaptein and she’s basically a starter, so. I think players look at Kaptein and obviously Alyssa Thompson and they think, “that can be me”.

It’s not always going to be that way – Lexi Potter is not going to bench Keira Walsh. Yeah, you must be a bit realistic as well.

So it’s difficult and they’ve got some talented youngsters coming through, who are loaned out at the moment.

How do you think Chelsea will be doing for the rest of the season?

I do think the league is gone, even though Manchester City have bottled it before. I don’t see them realistically losing the league.

I don’t particularly care about the League Cup, if I’m honest. I don’t think any Chelsea fan would care about anything else if we do win the Champions League.

There’s the FA Cup; I do think a trip to Wembley is always good. If you get to Wembley, you’ve got to go!

If you could take one player from any other team who would it be, any player you want, stick them in the Chelsea Blue?

Probably Selma Bacha from Lyon. Niamh Charles –  I feel a bit sorry for her because she’s almost too two-footed. She’s not the best left back, but obviously she’s not going to get in at right back as well.

She’s done well after coming back from injury last season, but I think Bacha would do really well for Chelsea.

Do you think Sonia Bombastor is the manager to take Chelsea to the Champions League?

 I was against the appointment, but I had to shut up because she kept winning, you can’t say anything. At times she does things really well and then other times you think “why are you doing that?”

She’s quite a new manager because she doesn’t have that much experience. So maybe that plays into my thinking.

The problem is also – who else could we get? Tactically, I do think it would be easy to get somebody better than her. However, to manage the squad? She does this well and has shown that she can bench big personalities.  

Let’s see how she does this season and see if she brings that Champions League home. Yeah, if she brings the Champions League like, you can do whatever you want (she laughs).

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Flips, Flair and Four Straight: Glory Continue to Dominate at Home

Perth Glory 3-1 Western Sydney Wanderers

by Isabelle Campbell (9/1/26)

Above: Emma Tovar celebrates after scoring the first of Perth’s three goals tonight against the Western Sydney Wanderers. Photo: via A-Leagues.

Perth Glory defeated Western Sydney Wanderers 3-1 at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, extending their home winning streak to four matches and leaving Wanderers winless for a seventh consecutive game. Emma Tovar and Susan Phonsongkham set up the win with goals in the first half, before Ella Lincoln added to the haul in the second.

The Glory started the match as the more confident side, controlling possession and pressing the Wanderers high up the pitch, shutting down their opponents with relative ease. The opening exchanges saw a few halfhearted attempts at goal from both sides, but neither keeper was seriously tested in the early stages.

The breakthrough finally came in the 29th minute though when Tovar picked up the ball just outside the box and curled a precise left-footed strike past Sham Khamis, claiming her first goal in Glory colours.

The Wanderers had a brief response through captain Amy Harrison, who fired a shot on goal, but it was comfortably saved by Glory keeper Teresa Morrissey, keeping the visitors at bay.

As the half drew to a close, Glory earned a free kick in a dangerous position just outside the box. Phonsongkham stepped up and delivered with perfect accuracy, sending the ball into the top left corner to double the lead and give the home side a strong advantage going into the break.

When the halftime whistle blew, the Glory were in full control and eager to continue with the same momentum, while the Wanderers faced a difficult task in the second half to claw their way back into the match.

After an anything but smooth ball delivery from a robot named Darren, the second half was underway. Much like the opening half, the early stages were low on action, with both teams struggling to create clear cut chances.

The Wanderers threatened first when Yuan Cong had a solid attempt to close the gap, but Teresa Morrissey was alert and kept up her side’s clean sheet. However, redemption came shortly after for the visitors when Ella Buchanan delivered a precise cross that perfectly found Yuan’s feet, allowing her to slip the ball past Morrissey and make it 2-1. With this goal coming with 25 minutes still to play, there was hope for a Wanderers comeback.

Their comeback hopes were short-lived, however, as Lincoln unleashed a beautiful strike that found the back of the net. In a moment of pure poetry and déjà vu for Glory fans, Lincoln followed up her goal with a backflip celebration at the very appropriately named Sam Kerr Football Centre.

Despite a desperate late push from the Wanderers, they were unable to find another goal, and the match ended 3-1 in favour of the home side.

Check out our Instagram reels and stories for post match interviews and scenes from around the ground by Max Parris and Ella McShane – go to @impetusfootball on Instagram

Teams: PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Morrissey, Sardo, McKenna, Zogg, Johnston, Cassidy, Dalton, Tover, Trew, Phonsongkham, O’Donoghue. Substitutes: Skinner, Anderson, Hollar, Lincoln, Wainwright, Westaway.

Scorers: Tovar 29’, Phonsongkham 44’, Lincoln 84’.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-2-2-2): Khamis, Wang, Buchanan, Hooks, Matos, Harada, Chessari, Harrison, Younis, Berryhill, Caspers. Substitutes: Bennett, Price, Sony, Yuan, Cerne, Edwards.

Scorer: Yuan 75’.

Referee: Rachael Mitchenson

Attendance: 879.

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