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NPLW WA 2024 Round 16 Review

Ben Gilby and Ava-Marianne Elliott provide a full review of this weekend’s action, including photography from Rob Lizzi and Cat Bryant (28/7/24).

Above: Ella Lincoln (azure shirt) holds off Perth RedStar’s Mischa Anderson today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.

Game of the week

Perth RedStar 2-1 Perth SC

by Ben Gilby

Perth RedStar earned a crucial victory in the battle of the top two which sees them go five points clear of The Azzurri at the NPLW WA summit.

Goals from Jayna Ridley and Olivia Wood, with Tijan McKenna’s penalty in between ensured that the home side gained the three points that have gone a long way to see them retain the title for another year.

Carlos Vega Mena’s side were boosted by the return of Caitlin Doeglas to their matchday squad as a substitute. For the visitors, Grace Johnston was back after last week’s injury scare and took her place on the bench. Sam Mathers was down as sub with Ruby Marshall coming into the starting line-up. Lilly Bailey played her last game before moving to the USA for college football.

**Above:** Tijan McKenna (azure shirt) reaches out to get her foot on the ball at RedStar Arena today. **Photo** **supplied** to *Impetus* **by:** Rob Lizzi.

Perth SC opted for an extremely young and gifted midfield with the Young Matildas and A-League Women stars Georgia Cassidy and Tijan McKenna joined by the talented Charli Wainwright. The runs and insightful passes that the trio possess could be potentially game-changing if they could stamp their authority on their experienced RedStar opponents.

The early stages were an arm-wrestle with the hosts seen more from an attacking perspective, which required visiting captain Baxter Thew to maintain her concentration and mop up when necessary.

Around the quarter-hour mark of the encounter, RedStar began to step up the intensity. Quyen Doan was able to get on the ball more and look to bring those around her into the game, but The Azzurri were still comfortable in defence.

Indeed, shots were few and far between at this stage. The home side were working tirelessly to keep Ella Lincoln at arm’s length, and the attacker was dropping deeper in a bid to look for possession and outlets as well as helping out her side’s backline.

With 20 minutes played, a situation that looked to be well under control at the back for the visitors suddenly turned into disaster. Kim McCartney was comfortable in clearing up a RedStar attack and laid a pass for Cassidy inside her. However, the Young Matilda came under pressure from two red shirts, with Jayna Ridley pouncing to gain possession and send a classy low finish into the right-hand corner of the net from the edge of the area to put the home team ahead.

**Above:** Celebration time for Perth RedStar after Jayna Ridley put them 1-0 up today. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

On the half-hour mark, Ridley was involved again as she laid a pass out to Reina Kagami on the edge of the box to the right of centre, but the Japanese attacker’s shot went over the top to end a sublime move that also involved Olivia Wood.

Shortly afterwards, the home side almost profited again from an error at the back. This time, Thew, who has been sensational in recent weeks, and indeed largely throughout this game, misstepped to allow Ridley in, but Perth SC goalkeeper Bailey saved with her right foot.

The final 10 minutes of the half saw the visitors have their most consistent spell of possession and territory to date, which coincided with the trio of Cassidy, McKenna, and Wainwright stepping up their accuracy and intensity.

**Above:** Charli Wainwright (azure shirt) looks to dance along the wing. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

Cassidy found Wainwright inside her from the right flank, and the youngster slipped a sumptuous pass between defenders for Lincoln to curl a strike just wide of the right-hand post.

RedStar responded in the final stages of the half by putting together a spell of outstanding one-touch passing football that looked to carve its way through the visitors. From one such move, Wood turned and hit a shot from the edge of the box that Bailey held.

The visitors came out firing after the interval to create the first opportunity of the second 45. McKenna showed great footwork to beat Sarah Carroll and play a crossfield pass. The move ended with Marshall coming in at the back post just unable to direct the ball on target.

However, RedStar stepped up the pressure and possession. Kagami escaped along the right and played a cross in that Bailey missed, but her defence tidied up.

Shortly afterwards, Kagami was involved again and benefitted from pressuring McKenna into a mistake. The RedStar attacker motored up the flank and cut inside to hit a low shot at the near post.

**Above:** Charli Wainwright is brought down by Andreia Teixeira, and Perth SC are awarded a penalty. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

Yet, just before the hour mark, the Azzurri equalised. A superb move along the left flank saw Lincoln feed Wainwright. The midfielder played a wonderful dummy to bring Mathers into the game. A one-two allowed Wainwright to advance into the area where she was brought down by Andreia Teixeira and referee Stewart Beattie had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Up stepped McKenna to dispatch a powerful penalty into the right-hand side of the net.

The visitors were buoyed by the goal and gained momentum. Lincoln broke into the box from the left and saw an effort roll wide of the far post. Then, from the resulting clearance, McKenna held off Kagami and hit a long-range shot that was deflected just over. From the resulting corner, Lincoln crossed in at the second attempt for Marshall to direct a header goalwards that was met with a diving save from Dal Busco.

As ever, the rule when facing RedStar is to take your chances when they come, and with those opportunities not finding the net, the defending champions hit back with a vengeance as they always seem to do.

**Above:** Olivia Wood, Perth RedStar’s match-winner, crosses the ball into the box today. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

With 17 minutes remaining, Wood found Emily Dunn on the right from the centre of the park. Dunn returned the favour, with Ridley then found centrally just outside the box. The home side’s opening goalscorer saw the onward run of Wood and laid a perfectly weighted pass into her which she then hit into the net on the half-volley. Wood is a player in superb form, and will not pass up opportunities like that. It was another great goal to add to her ever-growing scrapbook.

Perth looked to respond, and four minutes later, Wainwright was brought down in the box again, this time by Doan, but penalty shouts were waved away. Deep into stoppage time the same Azzurri player was felled again centrally, just outside the box by Kaitlyn Bellanca who received a yellow card. Wainwright stood over the free-kick and squared a pass for Cassidy to hit one of her trademark long-range rockets – but it was off target.

RedStar saw out the rest of the game comfortably and earned a hugely important victory. Whilst this result makes it unlikely that Vega Mena’s will be caught at the top of the ladder, there is still plenty to play for this season. Perth SC will be determined to lower RedStar colours in both the State Cup Final and the Top Four Cup, and Fremantle City are currently on a superb run of form that also marks them out as potential silverware winners.

The months of August and September are going to be one heck of a ride in the NPLW WA. Strap yourselves in, there’s some incredible football ahead of us.

More of Rob Lizzi’s photography from RedStar Arena:

Teams: PERTH REDSTAR: Dal Busco, Woolley, Teixeira, Anderson, Doan, Sakairi, Kagami, Carroll, Ridley, Wood, Dunn. Substitutes: Doeglas, Bennett, Arai, Leota, Finnegan, Odonohoe, Bellanca.

Scorers: Ridley 20′, Wood 73′.

PERTH SC: Bailey, Thew, Nossent, McCartney, Harvey, Wainwright, Cassidy, McKenna, McAllister, Lincoln, Marshall. Substitutes: Johnston, Insch, Bohm, Mathers, Papalia, Cavill, Hannan.

Scorers: McKenna (pen) 60′.

Referee: Stewart Beattie.

In-depth

Hyundai NTC 2-1 Murdoch University Melville

by Ava-Marianne Elliott

**Above:** Hyundai NTC goalscorers Theodora Mouthiys (first gold shirt after referee) and Ischia Brooking celebrate against Murdoch University Melville on Saturday. **Photo:** Football West NTC.

Hyundai NTC grasped the edge in a competitive battle against Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) at the Sam Kerr Football Centre as Round 16 opened on Saturday afternoon.

The NTC went into the game on the back of a midweek reverse to Subiaco and knew that three points were necessary to stay on the front foot in their battle with Fremantle City for fourth place on the ladder. However, MUM FC had a huge confidence boost from last weekend’s superb win over Balcatta Etna and knew another success would take them off bottom spot.

Play opened with vigour, and both sides set out immediately to maintain control of the possession, however, it was the home side that found themselves establishing a more powerful presence on the field.

NTC’s string of chances remained solid in the opening run of the game, with the visitors finding very few opportunities to break forwards. It was only a matter of time before the teenage hosts found a breakthrough.

In the 15th minute, a misjudged pass from Sophie Patience was capitalised on by Theodora Mouithys. Her cross was just parried away by Annabel Cook, however, she was unable to keep a hold of the ball, leaving it to fall to an awaiting Angelique Clayton. Despite her positioning in front of goal, the ball was just cleared on the line by the visitors.

MUM FC had an opportunity themselves. Last week’s hat-trick hero in their win over Balcatta, Ellis Glanfield, saw her header go wide of the post, keeping the scoreline level. Although struggling when NTC layered on the pressure, the visitors were purposeful offensively.

**Above:** Ellis Glanfield, who had another strong performance for Murdoch University Melville, seen in action earlier this season. **Photo:** Denyse RM Photography.

The first goal of the game was produced in the 34th minute, when Mouithys produced a stunning strike from distance. Her shot soared in the top right-hand side of the net.

Murdoch University Melville continued to pose problems in attack. Glanfield found herself in yards of space in the box but the former Perth Glory player saw her effort creep past the far post. Then, in the 45th minute, Isabella Baldin found herself in the right place, sending a shot that just rolled into the net – however, the goal was disallowed.

The beginning of the second half opened with an immediate return to the same levels of intensity and fight between the two sides. It would be the visitors who finally made their mark on the scoreboard.

After 67 minutes of play, former WSL player and Matildas cap Ella Mastrantonio stepped up to take a free kick. Her effort found Baldin with pinpoint accuracy to score.

However, Murdoch University Melville would only be level for six minutes. Klaudia Houlis relentlessly pressed the visitors’ backline, stealing the ball and sending it across to Ischia Brooking. Brooking, who had come off the bench just over ten minutes prior, had her say when she sent the match-winner cooly into the visitors’ net. It was the A-League Women’s youngest-ever player’s first goal of the season in the NPLW WA.

At the sound of the final whistle, Hyundai NTC’s victory took them into fourth place. Whether they would stay there would depend on Fremantle City’s fate against Balcatta Etna the following day.

Teams: HYUNDAI NTC: Skinner, Johnson, O’Halloran, Cuthbert, Collinson, Collins, Houlis, E. Gaspar, Mouithys, Britton, Clayton. Substitutes: Garnett, Brooking, Phillips, Longmore, Barlow, Leong.

Scorers: Mouthiys 34′, Brooking 73′.

MURDOCH UNIVERSITY MELVILLE: Cook, Sabean, Burdett, Brown, Eastman, Mastrantonio, Jayme, Patience, Reid, Glanfield, Baldin. Substitutes: Giles, Noack, Adu-Pipim Borduo, Gomez Basallo, Ellis, Ascenzo-Cabello, Hoath.

Scorer: Baldin 67′.

Round wrap

by Ben Gilby

Balcatta Etna 2-4 Fremantle City

**Above:** Tanika Lala (right) seen here in action last weekend at Perth SC, hit her ninth goal of the month for Fremantle City at Balcatta Etna today. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Rob Lizzi.

Fremantle City regained fourth place in the table with victory over third-placed Balcatta Etna at Home Group Stadium on Sunday.

The visitors hit the front with eight minutes played when Janice Kiama, on the left fed Olivia Truman on the opposite flank. Her high ball was met by Abbey Green at the back post who slid a pass for Kiama to tap home from close range.

Two minutes before the break, Freo doubled their lead. What started as a playground-style scrimmage on the edge of the box with Kiama on the groundm ended with Alex Poad coming in to take the ball into space and lift a stunning shot over Rebecca Bennett and into the top left corner of the net.

GOAL! 43:38

Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Fremantle City W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs Fremantle City W match at Grindleford Reserve.

Latest score: 0-2 pic.twitter.com/sv03Q8UfkK
— Football West (@FootballWest) July 28, 2024

Balcatta hit back just over 20 minutes into the second half. A free-kick deep inside their own half was played up for Nikayla Hughes. She was able to find Kat Jukic via Liana Cook. A one-two then saw Cook lash home from the edge of the area.

Any hopes of a comeback for the home side were snuffed out with 10 minutes to go as Green raced away from Faye Phillips along the left, drove into the box, and unselfishly squared for Anna Powell to sweep home at the back post to restore Freo’s two-goal buffer.

GOAL! 79:00

Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Fremantle City W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs Fremantle City W match at Grindleford Reserve.

Latest score: 1-3 pic.twitter.com/YgYbi9hwoL
— Football West (@FootballWest) July 28, 2024

Two minutes later, it was four for the visitors. Annabelle Leek’s free-kick inside her own half was pumped forward and bounced on the edge of the box for Tanika Lala to run onto and crash home a powerful half-volley.

Balcatta reduced the deficit to two goals with two minutes remaining. Phillips played a pass through from the middle of the park for Jukic. She in turn found Hughes who was brought down in the box by Maya Spatafore. A penalty was awarded which Abbey Meakins dispatched into the left-hand corner of the net.

UWA-Nedlands 1-4 Subiaco

**Above:** Subiaco (white shirt) in on goal at UWA-Nedlands today. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Cat Bryant.

Subiaco earned their second win in the space of four days with this excellent result at UWA-Nedlands.

Greg Farrell’s side had been on a disappointing run of results prior to their midweek game at Hyundai NTC, but those losses are now a fading memory after they restored Top Four hopes with this win at the UWA Sports Park.

They had to do it the hard way though, as the home side went ahead with 21 minutes on the clock when Emily Dinsdale was released along the right and pulled a low cross into the box. Erin Armstrong timed her run perfectly through the Subi defence to meet it with a low volley that flew into the left-hand corner of the net from around 12 yards.

Subiaco levelled on the half-hour mark. Out on the left, Cass Harvey played a one-two with Marianna Tabain which ended with her advancing into the area and, as Alyssa Kinkaid came in to tackle, Harvey’s shot looped up and into the right-hand corner of the net from 15 yards. It remained level at the break.

**Above:** An aerial challenge today between UWA-Nedlands (green) and Subiaco. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Cat Bryant.

The visitors opened the second half with a bang. Just three minutes after the re-start, Stella Zampogna, who scored Subi’s winning goal in midweek at Hyundai NTC, picked up possession in the centre of the park and laid off to Tabain outside her. The former Perth Glory and Melbourne City star returned the favour with a low pass that Zampogna ran onto. Her first effort was blocked by the midriff of UWA-Nedlands’ keeper Morgan Springer, but her second attempt rolled into the net from the edge of the box.

Subiaco’s game-breaking goal arrived with 56 minutes on the clock. Greta Bailey lifted a high ball towards the box that Tabain brought down superbly and controlled, before turning two defenders and hitting a low shot into the right-hand corner of the net.

The visitors made it four with just over 20 minutes to go as Keziah Burgis’ cross from the right towards the edge of the area was turned goalwards by Tayna Campos, allowing Shelby Cochran to nip in and direct a half-volley into the left-hand corner from 10 yards.

Whilst Subiaco move within four points of the top four, albeit having played more games than Fremantle City in fourth, this defeat sends UWA-Nedlands to the bottom of the ladder having scored fewer goals than Murdoch University Melville who have the same number of points and goal difference.

More of Cat Bryant’s photographs from UWA Sports Park

NPLW WA Ladder Round 16

Midweek Result

Hyundai NTC 0-1 Subiaco (Zampogna).

Round 17 Fixtures

SUNDAY: Fremantle City v Hyundai NTC, Perth RedStar v UWA-Nedlands, Perth SC v Balcatta Etna, Subiaco v Murdoch University Melville.

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Katie McCabe: Passion, pride and vision of an Irish legend

by Boh Blythin (26/7/24)

Above: Arsenal and Republic of Ireland star Katie McCabe during her team’s end of season game in Melbourne. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Katie McCabe is a crucial part of both the Arsenal and Republic of Ireland teams. Her ability to play as both a left-back and a winger has enhanced her understanding of the left end of the pitch, becoming more consistent and influential in both defence and attack.

Now, she regularly switches between both positions for the Arsenal side, presenting many different aspects of herself in both. Being able to understand multiple positions and read the game so well needs high levels of intelligence and a huge amount of skill, both aspects which go a long way to explaining why the Republic of Ireland installed her as captain. Her ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively makes her an invaluable asset to both teams.

As a left winger, McCabe combines technical skill, tactical intelligence, and physicality with a strong mental game and leadership qualities. One of her most threatening aspects in this position is her ability to create accurate long balls and crosses, building her team’s chances to score and progress up the pitch.

Arsenal icon

McCabe’s main and most comfortable position is left back. Under Joe Montemurro’s leadership of the Gunners, the Irish star was used initially on the wing. The Australian encouraged his side to play a possessive holding game with constant movement and attacking play. McCabe epitomised this style due to her tremendous vision and strong work rate. In this period of her career, the Gunner evolved her tactical skills, awareness and positioning. She was also opened up to supporting her defensive players more often.

Above: Katie McCabe celebrates a goal back in 2022. Photo: Press Association.

However, McCabe’s versatility revealed itself in the late summer of 2020. During a pre-season game, teammate Kat Veje, who played left back for the Gunners at the time, became injured which saw the Irish star move into the position, going on to be recognised for her outstanding contribution here by winning the Player of the Season award in 2020/21.

Current head coach Jonas Eidevall deploys McCabe more defensively – often taking on the role of left back. The Swede promotes a high and intense press style. Under this deployment, the 28-year-old has improved her skills as a defensive player and strategies from a different perspective.

Over the years, the Irish captain has developed into a committed player who isn’t afraid of getting dirty and stuck into a tackle. This is an integral part of what makes McCabe who she is. As well as this her technical ability, pace, and vision, she can also stamp her physical authority on the opposition as well.

As a result of playing alongside each other at the North London club for many years, McCabe’s relationship with Beth Mead is a key part of what makes Arsenal tick. Her overlapping runs assist Mead’s movement to the box to receive a pass or cross from the Irish star on the wing.

Although the two are such a threat and a dynamic duo, opposing teams have their own strategies to narrow down the pair’s rate of play. An example of this can be seen in double marking, which, on occasion can lead McCabe to lose her spark and go quiet. The knock-on impact of this is fewer supplies for Mead, reducing the team’s potential goalscoring opportunities.

Above: Katie McCabe (top) and Beth Mead – a key partnership for Arsenal. Photo: RTE.

Under Montemurro, the pair were able to showcase their attacking style of play and help improve their understanding of each other’s movements. McCabe’s crossing ability and Mead’s positioning were a potent combination. The two have blossomed further under head coach Eidevall. He encouraged a high-press attacking game, making the duo’s play even more direct and aggressive. Their understanding has deepened, leading to more effective combinations.

Despite their excellent attacking performances and ability to get the ball in the box, the pair could improve on their defensive play as a duo. To be able to drop back for one another and ensure a swift switch when moving from attack to defence would make the team overall stronger.

In September last year, the Ireland captain renewed her contract, committing herself to Arsenal to ensure that her time with the Gunners will move to within touching distance of the decade mark.

The face of women’s football in the Republic of Ireland

McCabe is the face of women’s football in her home country. She was made the youngest captain of the Republic of Ireland team back in 2017 when she was just 21.

As captain, she is a vocal leader on the pitch and has to lead by example, guiding her teammates with consistent energy and encouragement. McCabe is a key figure in the squad, contributing her ability to create goal-scoring opportunities and accuracy on long balls.

Above: Katie McCabe (green shirt) beats Katrina Gorry (on ground) and Alanna Kennedy in the Republic of Ireland’s opening group game at the 2023 World Cup at Stadium Australia, Sydney. Photo: FAI Twitter.

Whilst representing her country, McCabe has been used as a left-back, left-winger as well as a central midfielder. Under different coaches, Ireland’s style of play has been focused on defending and counter-attacking. The Arsenal star has often led the switch between defensive and attacking situations, developing her long-range balls, crossing ability, defensive play, and stamina.

McCabe typically takes the team’s set pieces including free kicks and especially corners. An example of her abilities in this part of her game was seen with her scoring the Republic of Ireland’s first-ever goal in the World Cup in the opening minutes of the team’s second group game against Canada in Perth. The captain stepped up to take a corner that curled in and found its way into the back of the net for the perfect Olimpico.

The mantra: “Stop McCabe, stop Ireland” is one that the Girls in Green have struggled to escape from over the years. The opposition regularly assigns more than one player to keep her quiet and focus on nullifying the players that are integral to bringing the 28-year-old into the game.

In a bid to avoid these opposition tactics, Ireland work hard to constantly switch McCabe’s positions on the pitch opening up new opportunities for her from different perspectives of the pitch.

With the Irish captain striving to develop her abilities to play under pressure from the strongest international sides and ensure she can continue to contribute consistently despite being marked by more than one player, she can lift her skills to a whole new level.

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Perth Glory reveal new head coach

26/7/24

Above: Stephen Peters with Bethany Gordon after winning the NPLW NSW in 2022. Photo: NPL NSW.

Perth Glory have today confirmed the appointment of Stephen Peters as the club’s new A-League Women’s Head Coach.

Currently in charge of Macarthur Rams Women’s FC in the New South Wales National Premier League, Peters has signed a two-year deal with Glory.

The 40-year-old has enjoyed sustained success throughout his 15-year-coaching career, notably during his time as Head Coach at North West Sydney Koalas FC and most recently, with Macarthur Rams whom he guided to consecutive NSW NPL championships in 2022 and 2023.

Peters, who was named NSW NPL Women’s Coach of the Year in 2023, is now relishing the prospect of taking charge of a new-look Glory squad ahead of the 2024/25 ALW campaign which is set to get underway in early November.

“What drew me to the role is the opportunity to coach at the highest level in the country,” he said, “and what better place to start than with Perth Glory, a club with a great sense of community and history.

“We want to have a team that plays a positive style of football that the people of Perth will enjoy watching and resonate with. I’m really excited by what lies ahead for our squad and the club in general.”

Glory CEO Anthony Radich is confident that Peters has what it takes to secure sustained success and grow the club’s women’s program.

“Stephen is an experienced, highly-credentialled Head Coach with an extremely impressive record in women’s football and we are very pleased to have him on board,” he said.

“We are embarking upon what is very much a new era for our ALW side and firmly believe that Stephen has all the right attributes to drive us forward. Our Football Director, Stan Lazaridis, has been working away diligently and the redevelopment of our playing group is at an advanced stage.

“With Stephen now on board, further signings will be made to finalise the squad and consequently, a number of player announcements will be made shortly.

Sydneysider Peters began his coaching journey with Gladesville Ravens before securing his first senior Head Coach role at North West Sydney Koalas FC.

After steering the Koalas to the coveted club championship, he moved on to Blacktown Spartans FC where he further developed his coaching skills by working with both junior teams and the First Grade side.

Peters was subsequently appointed by Football NSW as Head Coach of their U15s Women’s State Team and under his stewardship, they were crowned champions at the 2018 FFA National Youth Championships.

Glory’s new Head Coach duly took up the First Grade Head Coach role at Macarthur Rams in 2021 and after helping them secure a top-five finish in his first season at the helm, he led the Campbelltown-based side to back-to-back NSW NPL championships, breaking the league record of 26 matches without defeat in the process.

During his career, Peters has worked with numerous Matildas representatives, including Casey Dumont, Leena Khamis Kylie Ledbrook, Renee Rollason, and Alex Huynh, along with a host of junior internationals.

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Imagining Team GB Women’s Football for Paris 2024

Above: Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses after this month’s 0-0 draw against Sweden. Photo: @Lionesses

Stu Barker, Hannah Chadwick, Freya Ward, Aimee Reynolds, and Ava-Marianne Elliott team up to select a Great Britain team to compete at the Olympic Games (26/7/24).

As the Olympic flame burns brightly in Paris, Team GB go into the Games without a women’s football team. Our team of writers were starting to wonder what the squad might look like if they were representing in Paris, so we thought we’d have a bit of fun and suggest the squad that we’d select if in charge.

After complicated terms were agreed between the relevant organisations, England, the top-ranked nation, was chosen to represent Great Britain.

In Europe, The Nations League acts as a qualifying competition for the Olympics. To qualify, England needed to finish top of their group, including Netherlands, Belgium, and Scotland. Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses finished with twelve points, the same as the Netherlands. However, the Oranje Leeuwinnen took the top spot with a superior goal difference of one goal.

Goalkeepers

Mary Earps (Paris St Germain)
Hannah Hampton (Chelsea)

This selection was straightforward, with Earps and Hampton being standout options.

Most recently, Hampton has been preferred by Sarina Wiegman in the Nations League matches, securing victories against the Republic of Ireland and Sweden.

Earps would likely start, given her big-game experience, ball-handling skills, and shot-stopping ability.

Defenders

Leah Williamson (captain) (Arsenal)
Lucy Bronze (Chelsea)
Jess Carter (Chelsea)
Niamh Charles (Chelsea)
Millie Bright (Chelsea)
Alex Greenwood (Manchester City)

Despite the desire to represent all home nations, England’s defence boasts world-class talent. Williamson’s leadership and Bright’s solidity form a formidable central pairing, with Greenwood and Bronze protecting the flanks.

As one of the most experienced and versatile members of the current England Senior Squad, Alex Greenwood’s addition to the backline would inevitably give Sarina Wiegman’s squad an edge.

**Above:** Alex Greenwood during the UEFA Women’s Nations League match between England Women and Belgium Women at the King Power Stadium, Leicester, England on 27 October 2023. **Photo:** Chris Foxwell

Greenwood is a technically gifted player and sensational defender, the assets she brings to the table such as her phenomenal progressive passes and wealth of experience are a must if she is available for selection heading into a major tournament.

It is arguable that she doesn’t get the credit she deserves in comparison to her colleagues in the back line.

Midfielders

Keira Walsh (Barcelona)
Erin Cuthbert (vice-captain) (Chelsea)
Angharad James (Seattle Reign)
Beth Mead (Arsenal)
Fran Kirby (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Ella Toone (Manchester United)
Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich)
Lauren James (Chelsea)
Lauren Hemp (Manchester City)

This group of players is perhaps only rivalled by Spain in terms of quality and depth. Selecting a starting group of players is not an easy task, nor was selecting this group of players. There are a number who could be argued are worth a place in this team.

A central midfield pairing of Walsh and Cuthbert would be sensational. The vision and tenacity of the pair make them a formidable combination. Both are comfortable with winning the ball and finding the killer pass for their forwards to convert.

There are many combinations for attacking midfield but if forced to come off the fence, we would go for the trio of Toone, James, and Hemp.

Forwards

Alessia Russo (Arsenal)
Martha Thomas (Tottenham Hotspur)

Russo and Thomas would both hope to be heir to Ellen White who is the current top scorer for Team GB with six goals, all of which came in Tokyo.

**Above:** Martha Thomas (left) and Alessia Russo (right) lining up together for their previous club, Manchester United against Lewes. **Photo:** James Boyes.

Russo would of course take the number nine shirt, but Thomas would be good value if the team were chasing a goal in the latter stages of the match. Some fans questioned the Scotland international’s credentials when she moved from West Ham United to Manchester United, but given her minutes on the pitch and that she was often shifted to the right her three goals in thirty-eight matches were not a fair reflection of her ability.

Though it’s disappointing not to see Team GB in Paris, we hope for their return in Los Angeles 2028. Imagine facing the host nation in the final, with Emma Hayes leading the United States, it would capture the attention of the entire country.

At Impetus we have completed a thorough preview of each nation hoping to take home the gold medal in the women’s football competition which is available here.

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Brilliant Brand inspires Germany to comfortable win over Matildas

Germany 3-0 Australia

by Ben Gilby (25/7/24)

Above: Steph Catley looks to escape during tonight’s game in Marseille. Photo: Luisa Gonzalez/Guardian.

A hugely impressive Germany side, inspired by the outstanding Jule Brand put Australia to the sword in the opening Group B clash at Marseille’s Stade Vélodrome tonight.

It was a hard lesson for The Matildas, who were never allowed to get going from an attacking perspective. That, and the relentless creativity, multiple runs into channels and razor sharp German offensive play pressured Tony Gustavsson’s side into too many errors at the back.

Australia went into the game boosted by their talismanic Arsenal duo of Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley returning to the starting lineup after missing the team’s final warm-up match against Canada with injury. Kaitlyn Torpey, who also missed that encounter, was on the bench and Mackenzie Arnold won her 50th cap in goal. On the minus side of the ledger, Tameka Yallop was ruled out.

Germany had had their own injury issues with star Lena Oberdorf missing, but they had the better of the opening exchanges offensively, with Klara Bühl breaking through on the left but the Matildas back line ensured she strayed offside.

Conversely, Australia were looking to maximise possession with Hunt and Cooney-Cross linking up well to begin to build from the back before switching out to Foord on the left and the duo of Ellie Carpenter and Hayley Raso on the right. The efforts and forward momentum it gained won the reward of two early corners. However, as the half wore on, Carpenter and Raso were rarely seen from an attacking perspective.

Australia’s second corner with 10 minutes played was gathered by German keeper Ann-Katrin Berger who released Brand into acres of space. She left Gorry in her wake upon approaching the area and, with Carpenter unable to cover, looked certain to score, but fired wildly over the top from 10 yards out.

Brand continued to exploit space, and earned her side another corner as she was able to run between Fowler and Cooney-Cross just outside the box to the right of centre. Shortly afterwards Giulia Gwinn saw a shot blocked as Germany ratcheted up the pressure.

**Above:** The Germany team line-up before the game and show support for their injured star Lena Oberdorf. **Photo:** DFB Frauen.

Australia took advantage of a short stoppage as Catley received a blow to the head to re-set and went back to maximise possession once more with a slow and patient approach around the middle third of the pitch. Cooney-Cross and Foord were looking to spread the play at every opportunity, with Germany happy to let them do so as long as the Matildas were outside their box.

The next focal point for Australia was to be to find an outlet up top. Fowler was shadowed by two or three white shirts on a regular basis, and Cortnee Vine had little or no time on the ball. It would be a puzzle that Tony Gustavsson’s side struggled to solve all night, and it seriously impacted their ability to maintain any sort of possession or momentum.

That crucial nature of being able to finish at this level was emphasised when Germany won a corner on the right just before the 24-minute mark. Gwinn delivered a high flag kick to the back post where Marina Hegering got up highest between Alanna Kennedy and Foord to send a thumping header into the net.

Australia initially responded well with Fowler able to find space in the box but the Manchester City attacker couldn’t quite get a shot in on target.

Germany remained on the front foot for much of the remainder of the half. They focussed on running the ball into the channels along their right-hand flank in particular as Brand and Gwinn looked to create. They were reaping the rewards of playing two tough Euro 2025 qualifiers just before the Olympics – the understanding, organisation, and sharpness was that bit more potent as a result in their build-up play.

For The Matildas, Fowler was forced to drop increasingly deeper in a search for possession with Foord therefore left isolated out wide, with few bodies to aim for in the box.

However, Australia would gain the final chance of the first half when Raso was pulled down just outside the box by Janina Minge to the left of centre with a free-kick awarded. Up stepped Catley, but the ball fell into the arms of Berger at her near post.

The Matildas began the second period looking initially more energised. There was more vigour about the runs and greater zip and urgency on the passing. But, frustratingly, it was not to last for long as Germany served them an instant reminder of what they are capable of as Brand got free again and was able to shoot, but it went just wide of Arnold’s right hand post.

**Above:** Australia’s starting line-up before kick off in Marseille. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Within five minutes the same player underlined her status as the chief thorn in Australia’s side with another searing run which ended with a rocket of a shot just going over the top.

Brand weaved her magic again 10 minutes into the second half as she escaped from Hunt and squared a pass for Lea Schüller who saw her effort blocked.

Germany gained the second goal that their share of possession and territory deserved with 26 minutes remaining. It was a virtual carbon copy of the first. Another corner from Gwinn on the right this time found Schüller unmarked to power a header home.

Within three minutes, Brand got the reward for her superb performance. Germany carved Australia open with a sublime move. There was acres of space for Schüller to find Sarai Linder out on the right flank for Brand to run in unmarked to slot home from close range.

The European side thought they have got a fourth with 18 minutes to play through Alexandra Popp but Australia were saved by the assistant’s flag. Defensively Gustavsson’s side were being taken apart.

Into the final 10 minutes, Hunt turned Bibiane Schulze on the edge of the box and fired in a powerful shot which Berger held with a dive to the right hand post – and that was that.

The Matildas were never able to get going from an attacking perspective. The Germans wrapped up Fowler, forced Vine into a peripheral role, and there was little or no time for Cooney-Cross to gain any sort of momentum. Particularly in the second period, the relentless switching of play and runs into channels squeezed any hope of Carpenter or Raso being seen going forward.

Sunday’s showdown with the brilliantly unpredictable Zambia now takes on the status of a must win encounter. Germany face Emma Hayes’ USA side on the same day in what could be an absolute classic. Lots to play for – and lots to learn.

**Above:** Lots for the Matildas to think about before they face Zambia on Sunday. **Photo:** Football Australia.

Teams: GERMANY (4-4-2): Berger, Linder, Hegering, Hendrich, Gwinn, Bühl, Minge, Popp, Brand, Schüller, Nüsken. Substitutes: Doorsoun, Endemann (for Bühl 89′), Freigang, Frohms, Lohmann (for Nüsken 46′), Schulze (for Hegering 73′), Senß (for Minge 73′).

Scorers: Hegering 24′, Schüller 64′, Brand 68′.

AUSTRALIA (4-4-2): Arnold, Catley, Hunt, Kennedy, Carpenter, Foord, Cooney-Cross, Gorry, Raso, Fowler, Vine. Substitutes: Heyman (for Foord 77′), Torpey (for Catley 78′), Polkinghorne, van Egmond (for Raso 77′), Wheeler (for Gorry 59′), Micah, Freier (for Vine 59′).

Referee: Katia García (MEX).

Attendance: Approx 20,000 (exact figure to follow).

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Fran Kirby & Dario Vidosic: The first steps in making Brighton & Hove Albion a top-half team

by Isla Smith (25/7/24)

Above: Fran Kirby unveiled as a Brighton and Hove Albion player. Photo: James Boardman/BHAFC.

Fran Kirby’s arrival at Brighton and Hove Albion is a major capture for the Sussex side and a statement of intent for a club who have also brought in Dario Vidosic, a hugely talented new head coach, to lead the former Chelsea star and her new teammates.

Brighton struggled to find the back of the net in ten of twenty-two league matches last season, finishing ninth in the league with just 26 goals scored. Though they improved their positioning in the table from the season prior, they still only won one more game, scoring the same amount of goals in comparison to the 2022/23 season. With that being said, the appointment of Fran Kirby brings both experience and ability.

In 2014, Kirby became the first WSL 2 (now Barclays Women’s Championship) player to receive a call-up for the senior Lionesses after scoring 24 goals in 16 appearances for Reading, following this she became the club’s first female player to receive a professional contract.

**Above:** New Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Dario Vidosic pictured during his time at Melbourne City. **Image:** Melbourne City.

The following year, after an outstanding performance versus Mexico at the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada, Chelsea came calling for the second consecutive year and she made the move to West London. During her time at Chelsea, she scored 116 goals in 208 appearances, including one on her debut and the club’s first-ever goal in Europe, as well as winning thirteen trophies for the club.

In recent seasons, the attacking midfielder struggled for minutes at Chelsea following a few injuries and health problems as well as a variety of incoming players making the competition for her spot difficult.

In an interview upon her arrival at the South Coast club, Kirby stated that she was “here to win” and that she wanted to play for a club where she could help as well as feel valued. With the subsequent departure of Elisabeth Terland, a centre forward who scored 13 of the club’s 26 goals last season to Manchester United, the club will be looking elsewhere on the pitch for goal-scoring ability.

Although not a direct replacement for Terland, Kirby shares her attacking mindset, something that will prove crucial for the club’s growth over the upcoming seasons and can help improve the performance of players around her.

**Above:** Fran Kirby in action during her final season at Chelsea. **Photo:** Ben Gilby for *Impetus*.

Brighton didn’t play a very structured style of football last season, with a very interchangeable midfield due to the lack of a consistent player in the number 10 role. Going forward, they will be looking for a more structured set-up to compete against top WSL sides, something Kirby knows all too well.

However, the arrival of Dario Vidosic as boss will add both detailed structure, a clear identity, and a game plan to make the most of possession – something that will be vital to take the club away from the lower reaches of the table.

The arrival of Kirby along with the potential playing style of Vidosic can provide a welcome boost to the club’s attendances. Last season, the Seagulls averaged an attendance of 3,881 fans per match, including two matches being played at the American Express Stadium (the AmEx), a 31,876-capacity venue. This was one of the lowest averages in the WSL.

Brighton and Hove Albion have stated that they have a plan to improve and develop their women’s team over the next few years and using new techniques to build their fan base will be a part of that. The marketability of Fran Kirby and the coaching prowess of Visodic are a great initial boost for those plans.

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The Next Level for Ellie Carpenter

Above: Ellie Carpenter and Sam Kerr celebrate Carpenter’s goal. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

By Genevieve Henry (25/7/24).

Going to her third Olympics at just age 24, Ellie Carpenter is often considered one of the world’s best players. Her speed, tenacity, and drive set her apart from most. But, as good as she already is, Carpenter has the potential to become the best player in the world. How can she take her game to the next level?

While Carpenter herself has called her forced break from football “a blessing in disguise” and “the best thing that’s happened to me”, a few critics would argue. Since Carpenter’s horrific ACL tear in the 2021-22 UEFA Women’s Champions League Final, her form has been closely followed and scrutinised by fans. Although her playing time and statistics have remained largely the same as before her injury, many seem to think she has fallen off. I suspect people have just begun to expect more from her.

Already a veteran at her young age, the sky’s the limit for Carpenter. She’s spent years breaking records, but she could break even more. Carpenter has previously said, “I want to be the best right-back in the world.” She’s not far off.

Defence

Carpenter is known for her lightning pace up the right flank, functioning at times as more of a winger than a defender. This leaves miles of space behind her. It’s a conundrum all wingbacks and their coaches face. How can they add to the attack without leaving the defence vulnerable?

Carpenter has the capability to defend very well. But, throughout her years as a Matilda, she seems to be relied on less for actual defending. While she is faster than almost every player she faces, it’s often her positioning that lets her down. Whether it’s her actions or the coach’s, it desperately needs to be amended. Luckily for Carpenter, she has strong centrebacks beside her for both club and country, with Wendie Renard, Griedge Mbock, or Vanessa Gilles; and Alanna Kennedy and Clare Hunt to step in and help out.

When she was 16 at her first Olympics, Carpenter had to prove why she deserved the call-up. She marked Marta in a game that tournament and to this day, it’s probably her best defensive performance in a Matildas shirt. Now, as a thoroughly established starter, there is less pressure on her at the back and she is free to go on side quests up the pitch. 99% of the time, this is a good, even great, thing. But, that 1% left causes catastrophic opportunities for the opponents to pounce. This situation desperately needs to be rectified for both the Matildas and Lyon or opponents will mercilessly target this weakness, and although fitness is not something Carpenter struggles with, it’s a lot to ask a player to repeatedly sprint the length of the field for a full 90 minutes.

It can be remedied in a back four with the right-sided centre-back shifting over the cover for Carpenter as she hustles back; or have Carpenter and Raso switch back and forth on the wing for the Matildas. It’s never for a lack of trying that she gets beat, but it is simply impossible to be in two places at once. Depending on the opponent, Carpenter’s game just must adapt to the situation at hand. In the World Cup, she put on her best display in defence since the Rio Olympics, against Pernille Harder. She had Harder absolutely pocketed the entire game, nullifying Denmark’s biggest attacking threat. When instructed to play defensively, she thrives. It’s just too hard to do both all the time. To excel, she must improve what she can control.

Above: Carpenter fights for possession against Iran. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

One of Carpenter’s best qualities is her strength and physicality. Growing up playing against boys, she learned to fight hard against every opponent. She has incredible stability and balance, with her ability to stay on her feet and keep running through challenges unmatched by most.

Her tackling skills are quite good, making fewer unsuccessful challenges than other top fullbacks, making only five failed tackles where top fullbacks often lose far more, up to 20 throughout the season. She also excels at using her body to stop attacks, being skilled at blocking both balls and players from sneaking by her. Her interceptions are also good when compared to elite players such as Ona Batlle, Lucy Bronze, Selma Bacha, Emily Fox, and Ashley Lawrence, making 1.2 per game while Lawrence only makes .37 per game. She is dispossessed and mis-controls the ball the least out of these top fullbacks.

Although not a huge detriment to her game, Carpenter struggles aerially, only winning 14% of duels, while the comparable players generally complete over 50%. She struggles with clearances, but most elite fullbacks, all rank just as low, or even lower than Carpenter in this statistic.

Attack

Having scored only 13 goals in her career, most of which came in her teenage years playing in attacking roles in the W-League, Carpenter is not really a threat in front of net. If she can carry her runs into the box and back herself to shoot, she could become a truly dangerous asset for any team.

Although Carpenter ranks in the 71st percentile for assists in comparison to other defenders, to truly become an elite fullback, her crossing abilities should get even better. When compared to the likes of Bacha, Battle and crew; Carpenter shows the lowest xG+AG (expected goals plus assists), signifying that there is still some ground to make up in direct contributions to goals.

Carpenter has a similar number and percentage of passes completed (around 80%) compared to these other top fullbacks for both short and medium-distance passes but ranks significantly higher in long passes, completing 66% while the other top fullbacks generally complete around 50%. She is on the upper end of passes in the final third and passes into the penalty area. She crosses the ball an average amount, with 2.93 per game, while Bacha is the cream of the crop with a whopping 11.9. But, the quality of Carpenter’s crosses can often leave something to be desired, as shown by her amount of assists and shot-creating actions, which are lower than the amount of crosses. She is also fairly average in her amount of shot-creating actions when compared to the best of the best, creating 2.85 chances per 90. She creates better chances when making runs and passing into the box, as opposed to crossing.

Above: Carpenter in action for the Matildas. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Carpenter is a model fullback with progressive movement, being on top of the statistics in both progressive passes and progressive passes received. Her link-up play, especially for Australia, is extremely dangerous and hard to defend. She completes more give-and-go’s than most, her speed making her runs impossible to contain.

The Paris Olympics are a chance for Carpenter to once again prove herself to the world.

Carpenter has been on an upward trajectory since she was 16. To become the most complete fullback, she simply needs to continue to work hard, refine her crossing, and work on positioning. Once she hits her prime, I have no doubt that she could be the best defender, if not player, in the world.

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Klaudia Houlis: Working hard to live the dream

In this week’s ‘WA On Wednesday’, Hyundai NTC’s Klaudia Houlis speaks to Ben Gilby about her footballing journey to date, and what it’s like to be part of the NTC set-up in Western Australia (24/7/24).

Above: Klaudia Houlis breaks through for Hyundai NTC at UWA-Nedlands on the opening day of this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Klaudia Houlis.

Klaudia Houlis has come a long way from kicking a ball around the playground at primary school during recess. The 16-year-old attacker has been part of the set-up at the NTC for six years and is now in her second season as part of the U18 side playing in NPLW WA football.

Houlis is one of those exciting young players that those who know Western Australian women’s football have been keeping an eye on for a fair while already. Consistently playing at an age group level higher than her actual age, the attacker has always shown flair and a canny ability to find the net at important times.

“When I step onto the football pitch, I feel my personality reflects the way I play. I am determined and I am confident, and this shows through the way that I try to win the ball back even if I’ve just lost it or I’ve made a mistake and I strive to fix it. I see myself as a proactive player always thinking ahead. My decisions always have reason even if execution isn’t there. I see myself as an aggressive and quick attacking player who is very experimental in the final third.”

Those qualities and abilities can be traced back to Houlis’ earliest days playing the game. “My journey started in primary school at recess and lunch playing football with all my friends.”

**Above:** The NTC’s number 10 looking to push forward for her team. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Klaudia Houlis.

“I really came to love it, so at eight years old, my mum enrolled me at Olympic Kingsway Football Club. I was the only girl on my team, but I really loved the challenge.

During this time, me and my mum discovered the program SAP (Skills Acquisition Program). I was nine years old when I was accepted into the program, however, I continued to play with Olympic Kingsway at the same time. Whilst I was getting a grasp for the game, I realized I really enjoyed the attacking aspect of it. I knew I wanted to be a winger.

“At age 11, I trialed for NTC under 13s not expecting anything as I was very young and unaware of the future to come. My mum, after the trials were over, received a phone call inviting me to the under 14s NTC instead of under 13s. I was obviously extremely excited and nervous, but I knew it would be a challenge as I was just coming out of Primary school playing alongside girls in Years 9 and 10.

“Gavin Sit was my coach for my first year at NTC, He was a massive part in my development in making me more confident and allowing me to believe in myself. I then decided for the next season to stay in the same age group as I felt I still had some more development to endure and so much more to learn as I was still so young. Gavin was also my coach for that year (my second year at NTC).

“The following year I joined the NTC under 15s and for my fourth season in the program, I got into the under 16s NTC. This is where I was starting to become aware of how playing good football was the more difficult yet most effective way to play, Thanks to my coach Sam Geddes and assistant Conrad McKelvie who plays such a huge role in my footballing journey, who were also my coaches the year before as well.

**Above:** Klaudia Houlis breaks into the box for Hyundai NTC against Murdoch University Melville. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Klaudia Houlis.

“This was the year when I was awarded player of the year for NPL women under 21s in the league. I was overjoyed and so over the moon about this as I had worked incredibly that season. In 2023 I made a huge jump and got into the under-18s NTC, playing alongside players who had been in Junior and Young Matilda camps and who had trained with A-League teams.

“Playing with players with such experience inspired me so much and it further confirmed how serious I was about football being in my future. Coming to today’s date I am 16 years old, playing for the under-18s NTC in my sixth year of the program. Ben Anderton being my coach for the two years of being in NTC’s top team. He has been a major part of my development and the difference in my playing abilities from when I first got into the top team till now is significant his coaching style has shaped me as a player.

In terms of what it’s like for such a young player to come into the NTC set-up, Houlis outlined how different it is from what a player of her age at a club side would experience.

“It is much more in detail and developmental than a local club. NTC, although being an incredible development centre for young girls aspiring to be footballers is a lengthy, challenging process in relation to time out of your day-to-day life. I am so grateful for the driving my mum did taking me from training to training at some stages five times a week.”

Those years of hard work and the support of her family are leading to real rewards for Houlis. Last year, she stepped up to the U18 NTC side who play in the NPLW WA. It was a year playing alongside some exceptionally talented players, a large number of whom earned A-League Women contracts – and there was also silverware for the side when they won the State Cup Final. Looking back at the 2023, the teenager has some brilliant memories.

**Above:** Klaudia Houlis (left) involved in a tussle for Hyundai NTC at UWA-Nedlands. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Klaudia Houlis.

“My biggest challenge so far as a football player has been stepping up from the under 16s NTC to the under 18s NTC because I was going into a completely new football world with experienced and unimaginably talented football players. I struggled in the beginning, as I was not only training with new players but also playing a new playing style due to the change of coach and age group. However, I picked up very quickly and thoroughly enjoyed the entire season. I felt so inspired that season as I had so many people to look up to.

“Last season was the most inspiring season I have played. I had so many incredible players to look up to and I like to think that some of their football attributes rubbed off on me. For example, Tanika Lala’s willingness to score, Grace Johnston’s proactiveness, Georgia Cassidy’s cheeky and deceptive playing style, and Mischa Anderson’s strength and physicality. Even though I cannot live up to how well they play at this time, I will always use these players as my role models.”

It wasn’t just the players on her team that were inspirational for Houlis in 2023, one of the real challenges of playing for the NTC is that you are in a team made up of teenagers playing against experienced adult players, some of whom have played a considerable number of A-League Women games. Physically and mentally, it’s a task.

“Being a young player in an experienced league can be quite challenging at times. But I feel as if playing outside your comfort zone is a mental game, dwelling and overthinking the way you play will not help. You just need to play how you play and be determined.

“I think that matching your opponents physically is a result of matching them mentally. Obviously, you need to train hard and work hard but the mental aspect is just as important. You cannot compare your age, experience, physicality, and technicality with your opponents but you should accept them and work around them with your strengths.”

**Above:** Klaudia Houlis (10) makes a run into the box for Hyundai NTC against Murdoch University Melville. **Photo supplied to *Impetus* by:** Klaudia Houlis.

The NTC’s 2024 campaign has been one of looking to bed-in some new players. Houlis has already caught the eye with goals, but the attacker feels there is a lot more to come.

“I think that the team’s performances so far have seen us, in some parts play very good football, and our determination shows through the way we are defensively. However, I know we have so much more to show in the final third, more shots and more desire but on the flip side, recognize when it’s time for the game to slow down.

“I think for me personally my performance so far has been average. There have been some very good attacking moments but I feel like I’m lacking aggressiveness for runs in behind and some spice.”

Whilst Houlis is immediately focused in reaching her peak form for the NTC this year, she wants to use the opportunities she has within Ben Anderton’s squad as a springboard for her career as she approaches adulthood.

“My football aspirations for the future include going to a Junior or Young Matilda camp, but a wider goal than that is to be contracted for an A-League team. It would be a dream and such an amazing experience, but those things do not come easy. I will have to work incredibly hard. I need to train so hard, reflect on myself, and have an extremely determined attitude.”

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Bulleen go six points clear at the top

By Joe Rosedon 25/7/24

Above: Bulleen celebrate the match winner against Brunswick.

Bulleen Lions 1-0 Brunswick Juventus

Bulleen secure fourth consecutive Victoria NPL win against a spirited Brunswick. A first header from Tiffany Eliadis goal from was enough to secure all three points for the league leaders. The stereotypical game of two half’s, Bulleendominated the first whilst Brunswick put the visitors under immense pressure but were unable to find the back of the net.

Following their midweek 3-0 Nike FC semi-final victory against Emerging, Bulleen were keen to maintain their ever-increasing momentum. They were able to do this in the eighthminute, where their set piece credentials were demonstrated once again. Alana Murphy’s pinpoint corner was met by the head of Eliadis who diverted the ball back across goal via the inside of the post to give the home side a deserved early lead.

Brunswick could have easily capitulated after suffering an early blow but remained resolute against continual attacking pressure whilst also being more adventurous with their attacking play but without causing serious issues for Bulleen.

Yuka Sato’s glancing header from an Alana Cortellino cross did have Brunswick goalkeeper Sienna Gidari back peddlingbut the ball dropped just past the back post. Eliadis almost had her second of the game in the closing stages of the first halfbut her thunderous effort was pushed away by Gidari from a tight angle

Brunswick were able to offer more of an attacking threat in the second half. Sarah Cain was manufactured space on the edge of the box but her attempt was straight into the grateful hands of Erin Hudson.

Bulleen were fortunate not to have conceded a penalty when Karina Tolios header struck the hand of Alana Burn. Whilst everyone of a Brunswick persuasion begged and pleaded, the referee was unmoved.

After their midweek cup heroics, the visiting side looked visibly tired during the second half and were hanging on to their slender lead. They did almost grab the crucial second, Nia Salleh fizzing the ball across the goal but was denied by a fingertip save from Gidari.

This was a crucial win for Bulleen in difficult circumstances. They keep their six-point advantage at the top of the table ahead of Preston, who they will face in the final of the Nike FC Cup. They next face Bentleigh away from home.

This performance from Brunswick should install confidence in the team. Despite coming away with nothing, they were able to cause the league leaders all sorts of problems. Brunswick will hope to convert performances into points when they next play Essendon .

Olympic Preview: Brazil

Above: Brazil come together for another tilt at Olympics Gold. Photo: The New York Times.

by Stuart Barker (24/7/24)

No international tournament is complete without the famous yellow, blue, and white of Brazil. The immensely talent group have often underachieved on the big stage but could this be the moment that they step up and wave goodbye to Marta’s international career by securing the gold medal?

Squad

Two-time silver medallists left it late to name their squad for this summer’s Olympic Games. However, we knew back in April that this would be Marta’s final competition before she retires from international football.

In her statement, she said, “If I go to the Olympics, I will enjoy every moment, because, regardless of whether I go to the Olympics or not, this is my last year with the national team.”

Adding “There will be no more Marta from 2025 in the national team as an athlete. I am very calm about this, because I see with great optimism this development that we are having in relation to young athletes.”

The big omissions from the squad are Debinha, Christiane, and Manchester United’s Geyse.

Goalkeepers: Lorena, Tainá.

Defenders: Tamires, Rafaelle Souza, Antônia, Yasmim, Thaís, Tarciane.

Midfielders: Duda Sampaio, Ana Vitória, Vitória Yaya.

Forwards: Marta, Adiana, Ludmila, Kerolin, Gabi Nunes, Gabi Portilho, Jheniffer.

Alternate Players (can only be selected if any players above are injured): Luciana (GK), Lauren (DF), Angelina (MF), Priscila.

Head Coach

Brazil head coach Arthur Elias was born in São Paulo and before taking the role spent his senior coaching career with clubs based within the city, notably it is one most densely populated cities in the world with over 23.5m residents.

Elias took over the role from the vastly experienced Pia Sundhage. She was contracted to lead the team out in France but after the Seleção failed to make it out of their group in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup she left the role.

Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) acted quickly to appoint Elias as he was the stand-out candidate for the role after seven years hugely successful years with Corinthians. During this time, he picked up many honours, including four Copa Libertadores Femenina titles and the Brasileirão Feminino (Brazilian Women’s National Championship) in five out of the last six seasons.

Olympic History

The Seleção took part in the very first Olympic competition in 1996, the squad included an eighteen-year-old Formiga, who went on to retire in 2021 with a whopping 234 caps. They went on to finish fourth with a defeat against Norway in the Bronze medal match.

Eight years later, in Greece, Brazil reached the gold medal match but had to settle for silver after falling to a 2-1 defeat at the United States. In the seventy-third minute, Pretinha levelled after Lindsay Tarpley opened the scoring in the first half, forcing the match into extra time, where Abby Wambach’s header sealed the victory.

It was a case of deja vu in China four years later as Carly Lloyd’s extra-time winner again handed the United States gold.

Last time out, in Japan, Brazil suffered a disappointing campaign exiting the competition in the quarter-finals 4-3 on penalties against eventual gold medal winners Canada, Andressa and Rafaelle missing the deciding spot kicks.

How they qualified

Brazil and their South American rivals Colombia both secured their places in France when the pair reached the Copa América Femenina final back in 2022. The Seleção lifted the trophy after a 1-0 victory against the competition’s hosts when Debinha scored the only goal in the first half.

Strengths

The obvious strength of this group is its experience. Marta (186 caps), Rafaelle (94) and Tamires (148) have over 400 caps between them. They are well-placed to guide this team whatever the scenario.

**Above:** Marta takes on Jamacia’s Becky Spencer. **Photo:** Lívia Villas Boas / CBF.

Elias seems to prefer a 3-4-2-1 formation with the team being flexible to adapt their shape depending on the situation. If given space, their wingbacks will exploit it at every opportunity to provide the width, allowing Marta, Adriana and Kerolin to occupy the space in the middle.

Expect this team to get the ball into the box quickly and not let their opposition defence settle.

Development Areas

I expect 27-year-old Lorena to be trusted between the sticks but with only twenty-two international caps I do worry that the lack of international experience may be a problem when it comes to the high-pressure moments. I would have selected and started the more experienced Ferroviária stopper, Luciana over Lorena and Tainá – the latter only has one international appearance.

This Brazil team could be vulnerable against teams who are strong in transition and can attack at pace from wide areas.

Key Players

Marta

Despite being on the cusp of international retirement the 38-year-old is still the heartbeat of this team and bears the brunt of the pressure on her shoulders. More recent fans of the women’s game probably don’t appreciate her status as arguably the greatest player of her generation.

There have been spells where Marta has played her football in Europe, for Swedish sides Umeå IK (2004-2008), Tyresö (2012-2014), and Rosengård (2014-2017). While Marta has only confirmed her international retirement she appears settled at Orlando Pride and I wouldn’t expect a move to Europe to finish her career, more likely would be a return to her native home.

Marta has however only scored three international goals in the last two years, against Nicaragua and Jamacia but when the pressure is on I wouldn’t bet against Marta when it matters most.

Duda Sampaio

Duda Sampaio of Corinthians is well known to Elias. She is an attack-minded centre midfielder who would be a perfect partner for her namesake Duda Santos, who would operate in more of a holding role.

Prior to signing for Corinthians, 23-year-old Duda Sampaio received her first U23 international cap while playing for Cruzeiro. She made he full debut in 2022 as a second-half substitute in a 4–0 Copa América Femenina win over bitter rivals Argentina.

**Above**: Duda Sampaio. **Photo**: Rafael Ribeiro

One to watch

After Brazil were defeated by France in the 2019 FIFA World Cup Marta gave her famous post-match speech to empower the next generation of female footballers. One such player, aged nineteen at the time, was Kerolin.

Now twenty-four years old, the NC Courage forward is starting to show that she could be a fixture in this Seleção side for the next decade. After scoring ten goals in nineteen matches she was named the NWSL’s Most Valuable Player 2023. Following in the footsteps of previous winners, Sophia Smith, Jess Fishlock and Sam Kerr (twice).

Success would be

Within the squad, they will no doubt believe that they can secure gold but realistically, given the level of competition, simply getting on the podium at all would be considered a success.

Prediction

Since the turn of the year, Brazil have lost only once in their ten matches, which was at the hands of the United States.

You would be a brave person to bet against Spain not to top this group but outside of that, this is a very hard group to predict. Brazil, Japan, and Nigeria all have the capacity to qualify from Group C but predicting how each will perform on the day is a very difficult task.

Brazil and Japan are no strangers to each other having faced off together on three occasions in the last nine months. Brazil drew first blood with a 4-3 win in November. While Japan had responded with a 2-0 victory three days later. During April’s She Believes Cup, Elias’ side came away with a 3-0 victory on penalties after the match finished 1-1 after normal time.

So it really will be a test of who can keep their composure on the day and take those big chances.

If Brazil want to progress, their opening match against Nigeria is a must-win. Given the attacking talent available Brazil has historically underachieved but I back them to get that win and qualify for the knockout rounds.