Above: Tameka Yallop and Tony Gustavsson speaking after yesterday’s 1-1 draw with China in Adelaide. Image: Football Australia.
Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson admitted his side“were not aggressive enough” and “played too slow” in the first half of their game with China yesterday, but hailed their famed Never Say Die spirit in playing to the last second.
Gustvasson also outlined his reasoning behind the starting line-up, five substitutes early in the second half, and some previously unvoiced difficulties that the squad had to overcome in the build up to the game.
Reflecting on that latter point first, the Australia boss said: “We had a little bit of a challenge coming into this that those players who play in the A-League haven’t played a lot of football for a long time, so they are not in a season or in form. Other players are coming in at the end of a season and fatigued and tired from travel and playing. We needed to find the right balance.”
It took until the second half for that balance to be found, as Gustavsson admitted: “In the first half, for some reason, we looked tired. We were not as aggressive as we wanted to be. China won a lot of one-v-one duals – they were more aggressive than us – we played way too slow.
“I asked them (the Matildas) to provoke the press, be slow in the start of the build-up to draw them out, but once we break the first line change the tempo, and we really struggled with that in the first half – and also because China were extremely well prepared. I said to Ante (Milicic, China head coach) after the game ‘Congrats on a very, very impressive performance – they were very good… they were better than us in terms of the game plan, the aggressiveness, they were very well prepared.”
Above: Tony Gustavsson reflecting on the 1-1 draw with China. Image: Football Australia.
Whilst many will point to the five substitutions made in the early period of the second half as the stimulus for the improved performance in the second 45, Gustavsson actually believes the recovery began slightly earlier.
“We did some tactical tweaks at halftime that started to pay off, we were more dominant before the subs. We wanted to evaluate players, and that influenced the game – a new relationship on the left side, a new relationship on the right side, a new relationship in the centre – a lot of new things. It wasn’t a synched and connected as you usually see in a Matildas team.”
Those connections were a focus of this particular game as Gustavsson wanted to give a final opportunity for players to state their claim for a spot in the Olympics squad, and how they handle the responsibility.
“You look at different scenarios – if this happens…what we said we wanted to do with this game was to look at as many players as possible in terms of decision-making, but at the same time use the game for preparing connection, relationship, and consistency. Instead of doing links where we have one or two players who don’t normally start and have a mix through 90 minutes, we said, ‘let’s look at a mix from the beginning,’ and if we have the opportunity to bring…those who normally start in to try and have some cohesion and connection…”
In the end, the Matildas came back from all the puzzles that China posed them along with the formation and personnel changes showing their long time battling beliefs.
“We had the support of the crowd, and the Never Say Die spirit of the players to never, ever give up – we played until the last second paid off once again,” Gustavsson smiled.
Above: There were many challenges against China, but Michelle Heyman’s late leveller provoked big smiles. Image: Football Australia.
“Maybe it’s no coincidence that it’s Michelle Heyman there scoring that goal, being in the spot at the right time. I think that was important for her and the team.”
The jubilation over Heyman’s last-gasp leveller was tempered by the injury that Caitlin Foord left the field with shortly after being introduced as a substitute – it remains to be seen how serious the situation is.
“I’m a bit concerned,” Gustavsson admitted, “and I’m looking at myself here. Some players came in very tired mentally and physically…she was one who hasn’t trained fully until yesterday. I met with my SSSM team and…when something like that happens, you think ‘should I have used her today..?’ As a coach, you always think that way. We played it safe. She said she felt something, and I think if that had been a World Cup game or an Olympic game she would have tried to play on, but at this point, there is no way we would risk that.”
The Australia boss admitted that he was concerned about the additional load imposed on his players involved in the A-League Women All-Stars v Arsenal exhibition match the previous week in Melbourne, and believes the growing trend towards such games needs to be factored into player management in international selections.
“I…understand the ‘why’ behind it (exhibition games). I think we’ll see it more in the women’s game, we’ve seen it for years in the men’s game now…the interest in the women’s game, you can understand why clubs do it, it’s up to us to learn to handle that and look at the well-being of the players.”
All focus now though is on the second game against China in Sydney on Monday along with the Olympic squad announcement that follows shortly. After Friday’s draw, the Matildas head believes he is now almost there in deciding his 18 names, but is dreading telling those who haven’t made it.
“I am closer (to finalising all the spots). Without saying any names, there were one or two players who locked their spots because of their performance, but I also want to look (back) at the game (again) with less emotions.
“The players will be told individually face-to-face if they are selected or not…we need to keep it as professional as possible and always thinking of the person more than just a player because there will be some tough decisions and tough conversations which will hurt some feelings unfortunately, and that’s a tough part of this job.”
Above: Tameka Yallop putting in a cross for the Matildas against Iran last year. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Tameka Yallop emphasised how tough Australia found the challenge set by China, but feels that they will reap the rewards for experiencing it in the games ahead.
“It was a challenging game. They came out and were very organised and very structured. It was a challenge for us to break them down, which is something we’ll face (at the Olympics), and they gave us a lot of respect with the speed we have in behind. It was up to us to break them down.”
China were set up to frustrate Australia’s desire to play on the front foot, and the Brisbane Roar player recognised that it took a lot of moving the pieces of the puzzle around to solve the problems that Ante Milicic’s side posed them.
“We are always a possession-based team and we want to play good football. They were well structured and very disciplined, so for us it was about trying to play through, around, over, and to mix up our game and look how we could break down different opponents. With a lot of players coming in and rotating through, we all needed to get to know each other in different positions.”
Above: Hayley Raso speaking from Matildas HQ today. Image: Football Australia.
Hayley Raso reflected on the importance of mental and physical recovery ahead of a tight turn around between now and Monday’s second game with China – something the Matildas in good stead for the Olympics where nations could play seven matches in less than 17 days.
“For us, it’s about recovering mentally and physically. In the Olympics, it’s going to be really tight turnarounds for all the games, so it’s good preparation for us for that.”
The Real Madrid attacker also highlighted how important the challenges of Friday night’s game with China will be for her team to remember and build on as the battles get more intense over the coming weeks.
“It was a good test for us against a quality opposition, they were really strong defensively…we’re just looking to take some learnings from that game into the next one…Coming on (as a sub), we knew we needed to get a goal or try win the game, so for us it was just about giving everything we had to do that.”
Immediately ahead now is Monday’s second game with China, and an opportunity to farewell both fans and Lydia Williams ahead of departing for the Paris Games.
“I absolutely love playing in Sydney…To have our last game before the Olympics with all our family, friends, and fans, and to celebrate Lydia (Williams) who is retiring, so I think it will be a special night.”
from Emma Burke at Adelaide Oval for Impetus (31/5/24).
Above:The Matildas celebrate after Michelle Heyman’s last gasp equaliser, five minutes into stoppage time against China in Adelaide today. Photo: Football Australia.
A goal in the final minute of stoppage time from striker Michelle Heyman has secured a 1-1 draw for Australia against China in front of a sold-out Adelaide crowd of just under 53,000.
While a new-look line-up, erring largely on the last chance saloon for Olympics selection, and a different formation, the Matildas held the majority of possession throughout the first half.
Defensively the home side were not quite where they wanted to be, and at times in offensive areas, the ball didn’t stick or find its intended target. In the cut-throat nature of international football, not making the most of possession comes back to haunt you, and China were able to break through the deadlock in the 30th minute through Linyan Zhang who took advantage of some outstanding work by Central Coast Mariners’ star Wurigumula – who was fantastic throughout.
Above: Charli Grant (left 22) in action on home soil in Adelaide today for Australia against China. Photo: Football Australia.
Mary Fowler and Heyman were largely kept well marshalled by the deep-lying Chinese defence, with Fowler really only having one eye-catching moment in the opening half when she played a gloriously weighted pass through. That though would change as the game went on.
Cortnee Vine was also ushered towards the touchline and byline by the visitors as part of a well-executed strategy by their head coach Ante Milicic, who knows so many of the Matildas team so well from his past roles with the Australian national team at both senior and age group level.
A quintuple substitution not long into the second half signaled an end to the experimental period with Steph Catley, Hayley Raso, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Ellie Carpenter, and Caitlin Foord all coming into the game and immediately looked to make an impact.
Unfortunately, Foord would last only 15 minutes, going down with a potential hamstring injury, and was replaced by Sharn Frier.
Above: A packed out Adelaide Oval watching Australia take on China today. Photo: Football Australia.
Chances came for the Matildas, but they were unable to find the key final moment to convert the opportunity as the final ball never quite seemed to end up where it should have.
Finally, a free kick awarded five minutes into stoppage time, set just wide of the box on the left hand side was taken by Mary Fowler. Her powerful delivery bounced off Chinese keeper Huan Xu and came off perfectly for Michelle Heyman to poke the ball into the back of the netting.
The two teams now re-group with the second game of this Farewell Series being held on Monday night in Sydney at a sold-out Accor Stadium, scene of the Matildas’ World Cup semi-final with England.
Above: Michelle Heyman (32) slides in to equalise five minutes into stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes for Australia. Photo: Football Australia.
CHINA (4-2-3-1): Xu, Li, Chen, Dou, Wu, S. Wang, Y. Wang, L. Zhang, R. Zhang, Gao, Wurigumula Substitutes: Peng, C. Liu, C. Shen, Yuan, J. Liu, Wu, M. Shen, Zhao, Y. Liu, Yang.
Bungay Town secured the Tier Seven title with a 2-0 victory at Sprowston. Credit – Steve Wood
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One
Bungay Town secured the title in their penultimate match of the season at Sprowston on Wednesday 22nd, a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Lily Alexander and Lauren Purling saw Darren Renwick’s team claim the title.
Bungay’s final match of the season against Caister on Sunday was awarded to Bungay as a walkover after Caister cancelled the game due to being unable to field a team, this meant that Bungay finished the season as Champions by eight points.
Lauren Purling (Blue) scoring for Bungay Town in their 2-0 win at Sprowston. Credit – Darren Gilham
Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two
Stalham Town secured a second place finish behind Champions Bure Valley following a 2-0 home win over Beccles Town Development, Charlotte Fisher and Laureena Reid scored the goals.
Second bottom Martham produced the result of the final weekend of the season with a stunning 4-3 win at sixth place Shrublands. Melissa Anderson, Lauren Monument, Bethany Shearing and Amy Southern scored for Martham with Greta Jasinskyte and a Hannah Halfnight brace getting the three goals for Shrublands.
Red Rose ended their season on a high with a 2-0 victory over Horsford Hurricanes, Nadia Child opened the scoring just before Half Time and Louisa Said got the second goal which was her first ever goal in adult football.
Kiera Squires scored for Freethorpe but it was not enough as they were beaten 3-1 at Horsford Harriers.
FC Viking Valkyries and Waveney shared the points in a 1-1 draw, Maddie Smith scored for FC Viking Valkyries and Demi Saunders scored for Waveney.
Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division Two
FC Viking Valkyries were due to travel to University of East Anglia but they were awarded a walkover after UEA were unable to field a side.
Martham ended their season on a high with a stunning 4-3 win at Shrublands. Credit – Martham FC
by Freya Ward at St. George’s Park for Impetus (30/5/24).
Above: England’s Millie Bright speaking to the media ahead of tomorrow’s first game with France. Photo: Freya Ward for Impetus.
The Lionesses are going through their final preparations at their St George’s Park training centre ahead of their UEFA EURO qualifying fixtures against France with Millie Bright emphasising that the two games are “massive” to their hopes of retaining the trophy.
This camp is the first of several taking place over the summer period, with the same 28-player squad joining together to play Sweden and the Republic of Ireland in July.
This squad was announced in May, with a few notable inclusions. Bright has made her way back into the team after a knee injury saw her sidelined for a large portion of the season. The Chelsea star spoke about her recovery from injury as “the most tasking period” of her season. Bright’s strength and leadership qualities have been a huge miss for England, so her inclusion is a popular choice amongst the fans and players.
The defender spoke highly of fellow Chelsea teammate Aggie Beever-Jones who has received her first senior call-up, describing her as “a sponge.” Beever-Jones scored 11 goals in 17 appearances for the Blues last season, having only started in six of these games, deservingly these stats have earned her call-up by Sarina Wiegman.
Beever-Jones is one of multiple youngsters who have made the move up from the Under 23 Squad with the likes of Khiara Keating and Grace Clinton securing their senior spot in recent months. The England pathway is something that Beever-Jones spoke very highly of at the media event, with regard to her time at the U19 Euro Finals saying: “Although it didn’t really go our way it’s setting us up for these camps and playing games that ultimately matter.”
Above: Aggie Beever-Jones speaking to the media at St. George’s Park this week. Photo: Freya Ward for Impetus.
This camp has the addition of four standby players on top of the original 24-player squad. These names include Jessica Naz (Tottenham Hotspur), Missy-Bo Kearns (Liverpool), Lucy Thomas (Birmingham City), and Maya Le Tissier (Manchester United). Le Tissier has since been moved into the 23-player senior squad in the absence of defenders, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Niamh Charles who have withdrawn due to foot and calf injuries respectively.
Thomas is a new name in this England squad, having been called up on standby to replace Southampton number one Kayla Rendell, who is recovering from an ankle injury and is set to be assessed before the July window alongside Charles, in hopes of making their way back into the team to play Sweden and the Republic of Ireland.
Going into the double header against France, the Lionesses currently sit second in their group with a healthy tally of four points – two behind short of Les Bleues – so two positive results are vital if England wants to be in the best possible position for qualification, especially after falling short on Olympic qualification for this summer’s games in Paris.
Bright described the prospect of winning both these games as “massive” for the team, especially due to France’s current form making it to the Final of the UEFA Women’s Nations League, narrowly missing out to the current World number one, Spain.
The Lionesses play their first game against France tomorrow (Friday 31st May) with a win moving them to the top of the table; three points would put them in the driving seat for the rest of the qualifying games regardless of the result in the group’s other match between the Republic of Ireland and Sweden. Securing two wins against the third-ranked nation in the world would be a huge step for England in hopes of making it to the 2025 European championship in Switzerland to defend their title.
Don’t miss the other content produced by our dedicated team covering the Lionesses in both England and France with exclusive photography and video content on our Instagram and TikTok platforms and further articles on the site – for details of our socials, look below!
Above:Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson (left) and attacker Caitlin Foord at today’s media conference in Adelaide. Photo: Emma Burke for Impetus.
Ahead of Friday’s game against China in Adelaide, the first of two games in the ‘Til it’s Done Farewell Series,’ Matildas’ head coach Tony Gustavsson has admitted that he is dreading having to cut his squad down to 18 for the Paris Olympics at the end of the week.
“It’s been a stressful week for me to be honest because it’s the week of selection,” he said, “the worst part of being a head coach is that I have to tell someone at the end of this week that you’re not going to the Olympics.”
The final squad will be made up of 18 players, and an extra four will travel with the team, available as alternates should anything happen to one of the 18. While the players will know if they’ve made the 18 by the end of this week, a public announcement will be made on the 4th of June, after the second Farewell game in Sydney the night before.
“A core group of players [are] locked in for us… I’d say roughly 14 to 15 is there, there’s a question mark on a player availability on like, a Katrina Gorry for example, so when making a selection we have to make it based on where we think she will be on the 25th of July not where she’s at now,” he said.
Based on what Gustavsson has said, there are only three or four tickets to Paris left, but who those will go to is anyone’s guess.
Above: Katrina Gorry (22), seen here in action for West Ham United at Everton in the WSL, faces an anxious couple of days to see if she will make the cut for the Matildas squad for the Paris Olympics. Photo: Harvey Todd for Impetus.
Caitlin Foord reflected on the reality of the situation in the same media conference. “This is the last opportunity to prove yourself and show that [you should be selected] so I would say a lot of the girls are nervous for the game tomorrow,” the Arsenal star said.
Despite the nerves around and in the camp, there’s still nowhere else Foord and her teammates would rather be.
“We play each other week in week out overseas in club [football] but at the end of the day we want to be on the pitch together and the goal ahead is the Olympics. There’s no such thing as a friendly. Every national team game, every time we put on the green and gold it’s definitely not a friendly match,” she said, further stressing the importance of tomorrow night.
The game will be hosted at Adelaide Oval, where a men’s AFL game will be played tonight, bringing up questions about the quality of the pitch at tomorrow’s kick-off which is slated for 7:40pm local time.
Gustavsson had no such qualms about his side in relation to such an issue however. “No matter what is thrown at them whether it’s a pitch or an injury or the weather, they just do it, they get it done, that’s just who these players are so no matter what we face tomorrow we’re going to be ready to play,” he said.
Above: Chloe Lincoln looks on after Sweden’s third goal.
Sweden 3-0 Australia
The Australian Under 23’s began the four nations tournament with a 3-0 loss to Sweden.
The damage was done in the first half with two early goals from Johanna Renmark and a close rang finish from Ebba Handfast settling the result.
The Under 23’s looked sharp in the opening minutes. Hana Lowry was deployed in a more advanced role than she has been at Perth Glory and had the game’s first shot on target after Australia’s press spilled the ball loose.
Chloe Lincoln pulled off a very strong one on one save and Alexia Apostolakis stopped a certain shot on goal with a skilfull sliding tackle while retaining possession.
Similarly to the senior side, The Under 23’s looked to play out from the back at all costs. It is a risky tactic, especially with a team that had never started a match together, but it is a big part of this program to ready players for the senior Matildas, and game style is crucial to that.
It is however, how the first goal was conceded. Hesitancy on the ball created an opening for Renmark, and she was simply more clinical than Lowry was with her similar opportunity earlier on.
The second goal was well taken, but unlucky. With the ball on the wing, right back Bryleeh Henry was turned and the cross found Renmark to scuff her shot home from close range. There was a momentary pause among the Australia camp as Henry seemingly went down injured under no contact. Sweden played on and took advantage, but for a minute hearts were in mouths as teammates and staff feared the worst.
Henry was able to play on and was not subbed out until midway through the second half to the relief of anybody watching.
Sweden’s third goal came after Australia’s efforts to clear a corner resulted repeated efforts from the hosts. At the third attempt, Handfast bundled the ball home.
Australia had their chances to attack, although they found moving the ball through midfield difficult against the organized Swedes, when they did get forward, they looked dangerous. Ana Margraf was industrious and creative in midfield. Leah Davidson delivered an excellent cross after a clever move to lose the defender on the right.
Laura Hughes and Leah Davidson were strong in midfield, and most of Sweden’s joy came down the flanks.
The Swedes defensively were very structure and physical. They paid special attention to nullifying Daniela Galic before she could have any time on the ball. Kahli Johnson was kept wide, and the Swedish defenders did not let her get an easy pass away.
Australia’s back four were all good individually, but the goals looked like a result of a defence that had not played much football as a unit. It is something that is likely to improve over the next few games.
There were positives. Henry looks to be continuing to develop into a top quality fullback, Apostolakis rarely looks flustered, Margraf is a quiet chance for a senior call up and Lowry was lively in an attacking role. These games are about development, and although winning is a big part of that, these players will have each learned something from this game. Clinical finishing in the final third was the main difference between these sides, and despite the scoreline, Australia was not played off the park.
The tough tests continue as Australia face Germany on Sunday morning (AEST).
Above: Mary Fowler speaking from Coopers Stadium in Adelaide today. Image: Football Australia.
We’re less than 48 hours away from the first of the two Matildas’ friendlies against China, and attacker Mary Fowler is determined that she and her teammates will do everything possible to put themselves in the best possible place ahead of the Paris Olympics.
“We’re doing well. We’re the kind of team that tries not to waste a single session, so camp has been really good so far, we’re trying to get the most out of it, and we’re having fun as well!” the Manchester City star smiled.
Friday’s match at Adelaide Oval marks a return to the South Australian capital for Fowler. It was at Adelaide United that she made her A-League Women debut after signing for them at the age of 16. She would go on to play seven games and score three times in the 2020/21 campaign for the Reds. Reflecting on her return to the city, the attacker admitted ruefully: “To be honest, I don’t remember the place much! But it’s nice to be in Australia, I’ve missed being home.”
The Matildas will lock horns with China on Friday for the first time since 13th February 2020 when the pair faced each other in Parramatta during the Tokyo Olympics qualification tournament – a game that saw Emily van Egmond’s dramatic stoppage-time equaliser ensuring the Matildas made the final qualifying round tie against Vietnam.
Fowler recognises that China pose a unique challenge. They are coached by Ante Milicic who knows many of the Matildas squad inside out from his time as national head coach, assistant, and boss of both the U20 and U23 Matildas teams between 2014 and 2020. Therefore, Australia will be pushed all the way to use their new tactical setup to break through the expected defensive conundrum that the former Matildas boss will set up.
“It gives us an idea of where we’re at, look at the things we’re working on, and see the things we could improve, so I think it’s a good match for us to have this camp.”
Whilst you would expect the attacker to be one of the first names on the squad selection list for the Paris Olympics, the Manchester City star’s outlook on life means she is philosophical about what’s ahead.
“I’m someone who just tries to enjoy the day, take it for what it is, and I’m here to do my best and have a bit of fun, and we’ll see what happens.”
Pictures from Matildas training at Coopers Stadium, Adelaide by Courtney Pedlar via Football Australia:
Above: Abbey Meakins (dark blue shirt) battling away for Balcatta Etna against her former side Perth SC earlier this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
To further complement Impetus‘ coverage of the NPLW WA competition in 2024, we’ve assembled a group of people who are watching the competition’s matches especially closely to identify the competition’s most consistent players each month. For the second month of the season, Ben Gilby, Kelechi Osunwa, Tommy Dolman, and Ava-Marianne Elliott produced a five-player long list from which May’s winner was selected.
The Shortlist – May 2024
Emily Dinsdale (UWA-Nedlands):
Above: Emily Dinsdale in action for UWA-Nedlands last season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: UWA-Nedlands FC.
A player taking part in her first season on NPLW WA football for the league’s newest team, Emily Dinsdale is emerging as an increasingly influential player who has taken to this higher level of football like a duck to water. Her vision, tracking, and runs have been apparent from the very earliest period of the campaign, and she has also found the net as her team looks to consolidate their spot in the competition.
Matilda Bohm (Perth SC):
Above: Matilda Bohm, who has been hugely impressive at the back for Perth SC this month. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
It’s been an excellent May for The Azzurri and whilst their 15 goals scored may have taken the headlines, they only conceded three times. One of the key reasons for that stat is the outstanding form of Bohm. Her strong presence and excellent reading of the game see her get deserved recognition as one of the best players around the league this month. Just when you think Bohm cannot get better or more influential to her team, she steps it up ever further.
Jess Flannery (Perth SC)
Above: Perth SC’s Jess Flannery. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
It’s been a joy to watch Flannery in these early rounds of the season. The attacker has formed a lethally telepathic relationship with Ella Lincoln as her side are racking up the wins and the goals. Flannery has hit the back of the net four times during the month and, as both her and her new look team gel further grow, all eyes fall on the Azzurri‘s huge game with Perth RedStar the weekend after next. If Flannery plays to her full potential in that match, it’s going to be a heck of a watch. She’s had an outstanding May.
Sarah Carroll (Perth RedStar):
Above: Sarah Carroll, pictured last season for Perth RedStar. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Sarah Carroll is an integral part of the Perth RedStar team. When she becomes influential in a match, it’s a sure sign that the champions are on their way to gaining and holding onto the upper hand in the match. Carroll has the enviable ability to attack along the flanks as well as having the nous to make runs into the channels, find colleagues with perfectly weighted passes and chip in with more than her fair share of goals. On top of those attributes, she has an excellent defensive brain as well. The former Perth Glory player has the experience and ability to guide her less experienced teammates – and she has been in outstanding form this month.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month for May 2024:
Abbey Meakins (Balcatta Etna):
Above: Balcatta Etna’s Abbey Meakins (right) – the May winner of Impetus’ NPLW WA Player of the Month Award. Photo: One Touch Sport Photography.
Eleven goals in eight games this season – seven of which came this month alone. It’s fair to say that Abbey Meakins is back to her best after a frustrating wrist injury that occurred in a freak training incident last season. It’s not just about the goals though, she is reaping the rewards of the creativity around her of Jamie-Lee Gale and Lucy Jerram as Balcatta look to take the step up to silverware contenders across all competitions this season. If Meakins can keep her form at this level, then there could be exciting times ahead at Grindleford Reserve this season – she is the deserved winner of this month’s award.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month Award Winners 2024
On June 4, a new documentary about the rise of women’s football in Australia will air on Stan. Impetus spoke to Maggie Miles and Maggie Eudes, the co-directors of Trailblazers about bringing this story to the screen.
In the afterglow of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, and in the lead up to the Paris Olympics, much of the talk around women’s football has been about the future.
We live in exciting times. Australia’s women’s national team play in front of sold out crowds around the country, the players are household names, and a year on from the tournament, Matildas mania has not slowed.
But this has been the result of many years of work in relative anonymity compared to their male counterparts. The success of the present is only sweetened with knowledge of the past and a new documentary is set to appear on Stan ahead of the Paris games.
Trailblazers is produced by Savage Films and tells the story of the women who made this possible. The sacrifices on and off the pitch, and the struggle for equality. There is over 100 years of women’s football history and it’s all lead up to now.
Directed by Maggie Miles and Maggie Eudes, Trailblazers is set to not only hype up fans for an Olympic medal quest, but also provide important context of how the sport has climbed to the mountaintop of national prominence. The core theme is gender equality, something that The Matildas epitomize in their push for a fair pay deal and perhaps surpass in popularity.
“We we made a a really big decision at the beginning to talk to the players first,” says Miles of the genesis of the project.
“We had this idea that we wanted to tell at least part of the story of Australian women’s football if thr players wanted it told, and we were always keen on speaking with Matildas Alumni.
“They were all really, really keen, because we wanted to recognize the shoulders on whom the current team stand and the ones before them and the ones before them, and we feel that was very strongly our focus.”
Miles is an esteemed Australian filmmaker having brought films such as Paper Planes (2014) and High Ground (2020) to the screen. Widely known for producing works of fiction or drama, she has begun making documentaries. Trailblazers was partially inspired by her experience making Dare to be Different and embedding herself in a special needs school that taught through the arts.
“I loved working with the teachers, with the parents, with the students on that. I think developing stories from getting on the inside and getting to know people, getting to hear their stories and shape their stories but in a creative way is what Maggie and I have done.
“Of course, meeting Maggie (Eudes), who was also interested in documentary, and Maggie being a player herself as well as Director of Photography, it’s been a really great.
“We both had a passion both for the story, but also to do the next exciting project that was interesting to each of us for different reasons.”
Co -director Maggie Eudes is a renowned cinematographer in Australia having worked on Five Bedrooms for Channel 10 and in broadcasting the World Surf League. She brings a unique perspective to the project as a semi-professional footballer of 15 years, most recently as a midfielder for the swashbuckling Boroondara Eagles in Victoria’s NPLW in 2023.
“It was really important for us to show in the film that women’s football wasn’t behind because women were not interested in sports or or football or for some, obscure reason there was a real reason.
“They were banned from playing for so long. So we needed to explain that context and also, I think that shows that the World Cup was not an overnight success.
“We really wanted to show that with the Alumni going all the way back to the seventies with Julie Dolan being the first captain.
“We needed to tell that story from where it started basically.”
Completing the film created a hectic schedule for both directors. Eudes was in the middle of an NPLW season in Victoria where Boroondara played midweek and throughout the World Cup.
Much of the filming was completed over the course of a couple of years, but the documentary involved a trip to Europe completed with elite precision.
“Maggie (Miles), and I went to Europe, for 10 days or not even not even 10 days. And we spoke to Sam Kerr, Steph Catley. We just went from club to club,” recalls Eudes.
“I probably didn’t share that too much. But I was definitely looking at the calendar and be like, ‘alright, I’m gonna miss the fewest games possible and be like, you know that weekend, I’ve got a Friday night game. So if we leave on the Saturday morning, I’ll miss a little bit less.
“That’s how it is when you when you play football and you’re really into it, and you’re into the season and the seasons going well as well.
“It’s balancing out where you don’t miss out (or) you don’t lose your spot. I guess there’s a bit of extra stress. But then, as soon as we landed in Europe, you know it was, go go!
“Then we did another filming trip in Australia, where we were probably gone for a week, and we interviewed a lot of the Alumni in that in that trip.”
Paper Planes (produced by Maggie Miles) is one of this author’s favourite Aussie films.
A must see film
Reactions to the film have been universally positive. Football presenter Kat Sasso praised it online, and as a pioneer of modern women’s football, Heather Reid described it as a “must see” account of the journey of many individuals and how far women’s football has come in Australia, particularly in recent decades.
If there is anything you need to watch it’s this doco. I was lucky to be at the premiere and it had me in tears multiple times. A MUST WATCH https://t.co/2F1XlAQ3J8
“I was somewhat overwhelmed with emotion after watching the preview earlier this year,” Reid told Impetus.
“Even though I’d helped the producers with fact-checking, sourcing interviews and identifying photos, actually seeing the nearly completed film made me feel proud – especially when thinking about the personal and collective efforts of so many people who contributed to the progress and transformation of women’s football in Australia.
“The game is more popular, successful and equitable than ever before thanks to the efforts of our courageous pioneers.
“I was uplifted hearing their stories, and I also shed a tear or two with accounts of hardship, discrimination and persistence.
“I congratulate everyone involved in bringing this important journey of women’s football to life and look forward to seeing the final version.”
Purpose, empowerment and inclusion
Matildas Alumni Moya Dodd first played for the national team in 1986, and was a member of the squad to travel to China for the FIFA Women’s Invitational Tournament (the pilot for a World Cup.) One could be forgiven for assuming she has seen and heard every tale to be told about The Matildas. But Trailblazers contained things that were new to her.
“It’s kinda funny,” Dodd said to Impetus.
“People get way more excited now when they hear I was a Matilda than they ever were at the time.
“It just shows how much equity has been built in the team by every generation. And it’s great to hear the stories shared.
“There are some stories in the film that I didn’t know – from players that I shared a pitch with. Karen Menzies’ story will stop you in your tracks.”
Dodd features in the film, and says that the legacy of the Matildas Alumni goes beyond the football pitch, and Trailblazers captures that.
”This is a story not just about a football team, but about purpose, empowerment and inclusion. It’s a shared story that millions of fans are now a part of.”
A flexible gameplan and adaptable team
When the directors describe the adaptability and teamwork involved it is easy to mistake it for a coach talking about their squad and season.
They credit the work of their producers and editors in achieving the final product. Miles and Eudes led an all-female creative team, some of who were new to football, but soon became converts.
“Having a small team is really great because we were very agile,” said Maggie Miles.
“So just keeping it really small, Lucy Maclaren, as a lead producer is just so amazing and just really adept. We we kept having to just strategize and think on our feet.
“Then Sara Edwards, our editor is just so incredible, you know, and really fast, too. And so yeah, I think having a small team really helps to keep you adaptable as well.”
Maggie Eudes concurred.
“I’d say a good half of the team had no interest in sport going into the project. So then their interest was very much in gender equality, but they had a different view on a on a lot of scenes and aspects of the film.
“Like our editor knew very little about football, or maybe nothing about football when she started. And now she’s a big fan…having that diversity of the experience. Within the team was great, and I think it shaped the film.”
Both directors say that the all women team was an important aspect of the creative process. Although it was something that they aspired to, it still occurred naturally over the course of production.
“I remember talking really early with Maggie and talking about having an all-female team,” reflects Maggie Miles
“And we’re like, ‘Well yeah, great. But it just might not be possible on a practical level.’
“So it wasn’t necessarily something that we always went, ‘what’s the next role we need to fill? let’s make sure it’s a woman.’
“I don’t remember thinking about that at all, actually. It wasn’t until the very end and you look around (that we noticed.)
“Then when we started dealing with Stan that we were on a Zoom once, there were maybe 12 people from Stan, and there’s only one guy, and it’s like, ‘Oh, wow! What is this?’”
In that way, the making of Trailblazers reflects the subject matter. Diversity in media, and in sports is a key factor in gender equality. The current and past players all want to leave a legacy and this documentary will hopefully aid with that.
Each generation has left the game better off than when they began and Trailblazers tries to capture that and inspire the future ones.
Maggie Eudes showreel
“The current players who, when we interviewed, they’re just laser focused. It was extraordinary,” said Miles.
“The Alumni all had motivations bigger than their own.
“They wanted to speak about their own experience, but they wanted the broader story told, and I think we’re sort of tapping into change as well, because while we have had some challenges, we’ve also had an incredible amount of interest and momentum.
“If we look at what happened during the Women’s World Cup 2023, we asked someone in in the lead up, ‘Well, what do you expect will happen, what do you expect you will see in the World Cup?’
“One of the words that came up was joy. You know the joy of watching the joy of participating. The people I know people inside the game weren’t surprised.
“But look what happened… this extraordinary cauldron of activity around the Women’s World Cup spread across Australia and New Zealand with a massive wave of interest. So I think we sort of tap into that.
“We did make a decision to kind of if you like, role model the future. So we deliberately don’t bang on about what’s hard, what’s not working what’s still got to change.
“Of course we do acknowledge those things, but we’re actually promoting the things that have changed. We’re promoting the stories that that need to get out there.
“So, I think you know, we had a certain mindset, and maybe we tapped into, you know, a societal readiness for that as well.
Maggie Eudes is full of admiration for what the players achieved, often step by step and over 40 years of playing and advocating for the basic and equal treatment.
“They all wanted to leave the game in a better state that they’ve they found it no matter what that means.
“30 years ago it meant just having your shorts provided to now having your own hotel room as opposed to sharing with someone else and flying business class.
“What they had in common as well is the passion for the game. I think even you know, with things being maybe easier for the players that are playing now, the passion’s the same.
“They have different things they need to deal with. You know, the players now have to deal with that massive pressure of being so well known being watched and having to perform.
“It was really interesting, I think, and it was really humbling actually to see that even in Sam Kerr.
“Because they’ve gone through what they’ve gone through, they know where they come from like this, they they’re grateful, and they’re really humble.”
The film is destined for to be watched by many, but for Miles and Eudes, the measure of success is not in viewing numbers alone. The film will be available for schools with education resources mapped to curriculum. The goals are long term even if in the short term you will be moved and entertained.
“We’d like the film to empower whoever is watching the film to to see their passion” says Eudes.
“It’s a bit cliched, it’s the title but to blaze their own trail.
“If that path doesn’t exist and you think it should then we want people to feel that they can do it.
“There’s also this idea of collective action and the power of the collective. So you know if that’s something that can be taken on board by whoever’s watching and feels like that.
“They need to blaze their own trail, and they want to do it collectively.”
Maggie Miles saw the way that The Matildas inspired a country and hopes that the film like each generation of Matildas can help people pursue their passions.
“Step into that thing that you want to do and you’re passionate about.
“It’s not only about sport and we have seen in responses to the film thus far that people do come away and talk about that thing that they’re interested in, that they’ve always wanted to do.”
“That’s that’s what we hope for, that it will spark people to guts it out and follow their own dreams as well.”
Trailblazers premiers on June 4 on Stan. The project’s website and links to Impact campaign and resources can be found here: https://trailblazersfilm.com.au
Ben Gilby and Ava-Marianne Elliott provide a full report each along with all the details from the round’s other two matches plus photography from Cat Bryant and Denyse McCulloch(27/5/24)
Above:Sophie Meaden fires home Fremantle City’s equaliser against Perth SC yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
Game of the week
Fremantle City 1-1 Perth SC
by Ben Gilby
Freo and Perth SC fought out a tight battle at a grey and damp Hilton Park on Sunday afternoon, producing a result that favoured neither team.
The Azzurri‘s failure to seal a win allowed Perth RedStar to extend their lead at the top of the ladder to five points. Balcatta Etna were also able to close the gap on Perth SC to just a single point with their success over Murdoch University Melville. Fremantle are now five points behind fourth place as a consequence of this score-line.
Above: Fremantle City’s Abbey Green makes a run yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
Fremantle City went into the game on the back of their 2-1 win at Murdoch University Melville last weekend which awakened their Top Four Cup hopes after having to mould a new squad this season, something which has been made even more challenging after the departure of key player Laura Waltman after the campaign opened.
The Azzurri are really starting to purr and there was a first start for Young Matilda Tijan McKenna in a hugely talented youthful midfield alongside the likes of Georgia Cassidy and Charli Wainwright.
Freo started the game on the front foot with Alex Poad particularly influential along the right. She was linking up excellently with Maya Spatafore. Whilst she did not see as much of the balance of play as Poad, Abbey Green’s presence on the opposite flank was always a source of danger to Perth with her pace and powerful balls into the box.
It took the visitors around 18 minutes to balance out the share of possession and territory. Cassidy found Jess Flannery with a well-weighted pass on the left of the box, with the attackers’ shot going across the face of goal. Cassidy was showing both sides of her game, the strong tackles and the eye-catching delivery of passes. In this period, McKenna was also busy, looking to thread passes through to her attackers.
Above: Georgia Cassidy breaking through for Perth SC against Fremantle City yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
Despite the rise of the Azzurri, it was the hosts who had a golden opportunity to hit the front after 27 minutes as Anna Powell was brought down on the right-hand edge of the box by Sophia Papalia as she looked to dance through. There was no hesitation from referee Stephen Knight who pointed to the spot. Up stepped Annabelle Leek, but her spot kick flew over the top.
Moments later, Leek was in the thick of the action at the other end as she diverted Cassidy’s pacey cross over the top – going out for a corner when at one stage it looked likely to be an own goal. From the resulting flag kick, substitute Epril Nossent directed a shot goalwards that Janice Kiama cleared.
Back came Freo and following an underpowered clearance from Perth keeper Lilly Bailey, Poad lifted a high shot goalwards from outside the box that fell into Bailey’s arms.
Fremantle were back to frustrating the visitors’ powerful attack. They had clearly studied Perth SC’s build-up play, filling their regular channels with bodies. Whilst they let the Azzurri have the ball in their own half, they set a multi-player press in offensive play. Leek was sticking tight to Flannery throughout, and Ella Lincoln was largely kept on the periphery of the action with two Freo shirts sticking tightly to her.
Above: Annabelle Leek charging forward for Fremantle City yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
Just before the break, Cassidy was shown her second yellow card of the afternoon after an off-the-ball incident with Janice Kiama. In the short spell between this and the half-time whistle, McKenna took on a more defensive midfield role in order to ensure no damage was done to the scoresheet before the interval.
At the opening of the second period, Freo signalled their intent to take advantage of having an extra player by bringing on the pace and poise of Tanika Lala in a central position.
However, it was the visitors who asserted themselves despite being a player in areers, and they were rewarded for their brave attitude 11 minutes into the second period. Substitute Anika Stajcic’s free-kick inside their own half came in high for Wainwright. The talented young midfielder played a 1-2 with Lincoln before possession returned to Stajcic centrally on the edge of the box. Her pass was deflected into the path of Wainwright who turned her marker, twisted away from another and laid off to Lincoln outside her to control and then fire impressively into the net.
Confidence was coursing through Perth now with Lincoln driving up the left and holding off Leek all the way. When Fremantle did get any possession and territory, the quality of the final pass was lacking.
Above: Ella Lincoln (9) celebrates her goal that put 10 player Perth SC ahead at Hilton Park yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
However, as the game moved into the final 20 minutes, they stepped it up. Mikayla Lyons came off the bench, and within moments were level in some style. Leek played a perfectly judged crossfield pass out to Green on the left flank. The Perth Glory A-League Women attacker in turn fed Sophie Meaden ahead of her before getting the ball back. Tightly marked by two defenders, Green got a pass away aided by a Perth boot for Meaden who fired a rocket into the top right-hand corner of the net to level the scores.
The Azzurri had one final chance to take the win. Wainwright found McKenna 30 yards out who let fly, with Schroeder getting down at her left-hand post, but the ball escaped her grasp and fell for Lincoln, however, the home defence scrambled the ball away only for Kiama to foul McKenna 25 yards from goal. Stajcic’s resulting free-kick went over the wall but into the arms of Schroeder.
Freo had a flurry of chances in the final three minutes to claim the points, with Lala involved each time. First, the Perth Glory player went on a trademark dancing run centrally before laying off to Clara Hoarau fed Meaden, but Lilly Bailey saved.
Then, Lala developed a move to feed Meaden in the box who then played a pass back to Tiana Boots who was denied by Bailey. Finally, Lala looked to close down Bailey’s clearance, but her former NTC teammate got the ball away.
Above: Sophie Meaden (third maroon shirt from the right) is congratulated by her Fremantle City teammates after her superb equaliser yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Cat Bryant.
This was a frustrating result for both sides. Indeed, the real winners today from this outcome were Perth RedStar, Balcatta Etna, and Hyundai NTC.
More of Cat Bryant’s photos from the match yesterday
In-depth review:
Subiaco 0-5 Perth RedStar
by Ava-Marianne Elliott
Above: Perth RedStar’s two goal hero Reina Kagami (black shirt) takes on Frankie Murray-Hocking yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography Facebook).
Perth RedStar completed a convincing victory at Rosalie Park yesterday in order to extend their lead at the top of the ladder.
The visitors wasted no time in trying to fashion an opener. A chance for Lauren Continibali came within the first minute, although she was just unable to find the right connection to strike the shot with enough power. The ball was parried away before Emily Dunn ambitiously attempted from range, albeit the chance fell straight into the gloves of an awaiting Monique Todd for an easy save.
Despite Subiaco’s superb defensive efforts, plus a valiant spell of control from the midfield, it didn’t take long for RedStar to hit the front. With eight minutes on the clock, Andreia Teixeira’s vision and perfectly executed long-range pass over the top of the field was collected in space by Reina Kagami, who was able to convert and give the visitors an early advantage.
Falling behind in the game’s early moments, it was key for Subi to remain level-headed. With mistakes arising and miss-placed passes being played straight into a relentless RedStar’s feet, it was clear that the away side were going to make the 90 minutes as challenging as possible for the Subiaco.
Above: Subiaco’s Bonnie McQueen (22) looks to play a pass as Reina Kagami looks on. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography Facebook).
Surely enough, the chance to double the score line arose in the 18th minute, and Redstar capitalised. After Continibali pressured the Subiaco backline into rushed passes to try and send the ball away from the advancing attacking threat, Jaalah Rudd’s clearance only landed as far as Kagami on the edge of the box.
Renee Leota was there to collect the ball, before sending it back across to Kagami who had made a run into better space and completed her brace in under twenty minutes when a convincing strike with her left foot hit the back of the net.
RedStar still were relentless in their possession, giving Subiaco few chances to break down the pitch. In the 27th minute, a quality run from Savannah Olsthoorn resulted in Teixeira forcing her to the ground, conceding a free kick, and providing the home side the opportunity to pull one back. Unfortunately, Frankie Murray-Hocking’s delivery had too much power and was sent flying over the top of the bar.
Quickly, the champions were flying out on the counter. Momoko Sakairi’s cross in the penalty area found Leota, but with the pressure of the defence no luck came from an excellent string of build-up play.
Above: Lauren Continibali (15) breaks through to get a shot in with Subiaco goalkeeper Monique Todd looking to block. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography Facebook).
Shortly after one failed chance to send the scoreboard up to three, RedStar found yet another. After being granted a corner in the 34th minute, Caitlin Doeglas first connected with the ball ahead of the mass of defensive reinforcement in the box, and Todd was sent to ground in the scuffle, leaving the net open. Clever movement and anticipation from Quyen Doan at the far post secured another excellent goal for the visitors.
As the last few minutes of the half ticked by, RedStar saw more opportunity when Continibali cut a cross back to Doeglas, whose attempt just crept over the top of the bar. The former A-League Women star had better luck shortly afterwards. Dunn’s throw into Leota was concluded by Doeglas’ strong-footed shot that was sent soaring past Todd’s grip, extended the visitors’ lead to four at the break.
The second half predictably opened with RedStar immediately aiming to show more quality, surging forwards, and dominating the field from the get-go. Despite their strengths to undo the Subiaco side so far, the home side’s defensive work in the first half, regardless of the fact they conceded four, mostly met the RedStar forwards with equal fight. In the first five minutes of the half, it was still RedStar holding the majority of the ball, making it evident Subi’s defence were going to have to keep up the tireless effort.
In the 50th minute, the first promising chance arose for RedStar. Doeglas charged down the wing, cutting the back to Leota who just put a touch too much power on her shot, which soared over the bar and proving no worry for Todd between the sticks. Just a minute later, Doeglas continued to prove herself as an enormous source of danger, picking up the ball after Sarah Caroll poached possession from Shelby Cochran. Despite her strength on the break, Doeglas’ shot was collected calmly by Todd.
Above: Caitlin Doeglas, scorer of Perth RedStar’s fourth goal, in possession yesterday at Rosalie Park. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography Facebook).
Subiaco had a glimpse of a promising break in the 55th minute of play when Olsthoorn took control of the field and bypassed the surrounding players in RedStar shirts before passing back to Marianna Tabain. The chance was cut short when Tabain’s pass searching for Olsthoorn was intercepted.
Olsthoorne’s influence continued. She yet again charged down the left-hand side of the pitch with one destination in mind. Yet again to Subi’s dismay, nobody was able to jump on the end of her cross into the box.
Despite not playing with quite the same intensity after the break, RedStar extended their lead when Doan stormed through the cluster of opposing players, thriving in the limited space to send the ball to Kagami on her right. Kagami’s expertly executed pass followed, spying Arai’s run into the box which she sealed with an excellent finish.
Cass Harvey found a chance for the home side in quick succession, going toe-to-toe with Mischa Anderson and coming away with the ball in yards of space, right in front of goal. Although it was a huge glimpse of quality, her shot was collected easily by Gabby Dal Busco in the 63rd minute.
Above: Savannah Olsthoorne put in a strong performance for Subiaco yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography Facebook).
Rudd’s role in the Subi backline after her admirable strength for the course of the match so far shone through yet again in the 70th minute, when she took control of the possession and blocked Doeglas’ cross.
Subiaco found another chance to pull one back in the 78th minute when they were awarded a corner. Although the original cross was boldly blocked by Anderson, Danielle Suckling was able to send the ball back in for a second attempt. Much to Murray-Hocking’s dismay, her header, despite looking as if it was going to hit the net, rolled past the post.
For the final ten minutes of the fixture, RedStar continuously maintained the majority share of the ball, appearing threatening but unable to convert any more chances after several stellar saves from Todd and last-ditch blocks from the Subi defence.
Despite a massively valiant attempt from Subiaco for the full 90, the formidable RedStar side orchestrated a stunning display of football, proving exactly why they’re such a dominant force in the NPLW WA. Their clash with Perth SC after the week’s break for the State Cup looms large. Subiaco will return to NPLW WA action after their own cup tie against UWA Nedlands, who are just three points below them in the ladder.
Scorers: Kagami 8’, 18’. Doan 34’, Doeglas 44, Arai 62’.
More of Denyse McCulloch’s photos from the match yesterday
Round Wrap
by Ben Gilby
Balcatta Etna 4-1 Murdoch University Melville
Above: Abbey Meakins (left, dark blue shirt) – yet another two goals scored as Balcatta Etna came from behind to beat Murdoch University Melville yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Balcatta Etna moved level on points with Perth SC in second place on the ladder with this come-from-behind win over Murdoch University Melville (MUM FC) with Abbey Meakins hitting a hat-trick to extend her goal tally for the season to 11 in eight games in the process.
Pete Rakic’s side welcomed Tia Stonehill into their squad for the first time this season after her spell with Perth Glory in the A-League Women. Last season’s NPLW WA top scorer with 24 goals, Stonehill is now the latest member of the dangerous attacking force that Balcatta have assembled this season.
The visitors, who despite being bottom of the ladder, have been producing greatly improved performances in recent weeks, hit the front with seven minutes on the clock. Emily Dewar’s corner from the right came in high to the back post and was met by the head of Emma Ylias. The ball came back off the bar, rebounded back off Ylias, and in.
Balcatta turned things around with two goals in four minutes just before the break. They levelled when Stonehill was brought down in the box. Abbey Meakins gathered the ball and rolled it into the left-hand corner of the net under the dive of MUM FC keeper Manon Gebauer.
The hosts went ahead three minutes from half-time when Meakins, eight yards inside the visitors half, laid a pass off to Lucy Jerram outside her on the left flank. Jerram ran between two defenders to pick up possession and drive into the box before lashing a powerful finish that Gebauer could only help into the net.
Pete Rakic’s side scored the game-breaking goal on the hour mark in some style as Meakins’ free-kick on the right, around 30 yards out flew straight in for a sensational goal.
GOAL! 59:09
Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Balcatta Etna FC W in the Balcatta Etna FC W vs MUM FC W match at Grindleford Reserve.
The icing on the cake came with a fourth goal with 63 minutes played. Liana Cook gained possession from a throw tight on the right-hand flank and played in a high cross that bounced towards Jerram on the edge of the box. She ran on the with the ball and played back a low pass into the path of Meakins who turned and side-footed home with her first touch to complete her hat-trick.
Hyundai NTC 4-1 UWA-Nedlands
Above: Theodora Mouthiys (gold shirt, far right) celebrates putting Hyundai NTC ahead at home to UWA-Nedlands on Saturday. Photo: Football West NTC.
Round Eight opened on Saturday afternoon with Hyundai NTC ending their four-match run of defeats with this success over UWA-Nedlands at the Sam Kerr Football Centre.
The NTC took the lead just before the half-hour mark with a sweeping move that started with the ball at the feet of goalkeeper Jess Skinner and ended with a perfectly weighted ball into the stride of Theodora Mouithys. The NTC midfielder initially lost possession but ran onto a short attempted back pass to advance to a one-on-one with UWA-Nedlands goalkeeper Morgan Springer before rolling the ball into an empty net.
However, within two minutes the visitors were level. Michaela Thawley gained possession from an NTC throw on the left midway between the halfway line and the penalty area. The American laid off to Chloe Rodrigo outside her who then passed to Andrea Preiato ahead of her. Preiato then played a sumptuous back-heeled return ball to Rodrigo that allowed the midfielder to run diagonally into the box unmarked to lift a glorious finish into the far corner of the net.
Within eight minutes of the second half’s commencement, the home side restored their lead as Nelli Johnson ended a fantastic patient move that built from the back with eight passes (with one UWA-Nedlands interception in between) to cut in from the left to fire home from just under 25 yards.
Above: Lacey Heyes (gold shirt), who provided an assist for the NTC against UWA-Nedlands. Photo: Football West NTC.
With 20 minutes to go, the teenage side finally established a two-goal lead as Lacey Heys’ high ball into the box from the right-hand edge of the box caused all sorts of problems for Springer in the visitors’ goal, and substitute Cate McAuliffe came in unseen at the back post to send a first time side-footed volley into the net from close range.
Three minutes into stoppage time, the NTC completed the scoring with another beautiful passing move that started with Jess Skinner in their goal and saw Jess Johnson showcasing her talent – first with a centimetre perfect pass with the outside of her boot to McAuliffe outside her on the left – and then beat Springer one-on-one to play a low ball across for Mia Britton to tap home from close range.
Above: Mia Britton (gold shirt, palm facing camera) celebrates her match clinching goal on Saturday. Photo: Football West NTC.
Ladder Round Eight:
Table From: Squadi.
Round Nine will take place on the weekend of 8th/9th June, with next weekend seeing State Cup Quarter-Final action.
STATE CUP QUARTER-FINAL FIXTURES: Saturday: Perth RedStar v Murdoch University Melville, Sunday: UWA-Nedlands v Balcatta Etna, Subiaco v Perth SC, Fremantle City v Hyundai NTC.
impetusfootball.org 