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Sydney FC secure well-fought victory in Derby

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (16/11/24)

Above: Amy Harrison leads Shea Connors to the ball in the Sydney derby. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Sydney FC 1-0 Western Sydney Wanderers

Sydney FC took home their first win of the season in a 1-0 victory against Western Sydney Wanderers in the highly anticipated Sydney Derby, at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday.

As expected with any derby, the game kicked off with an immediate intensity on the pitch, however, there was an added level of pressure that could be felt from the first touch. Although Sydney FC has won in the past 5 meetings of these two sides, the game was not one that could be easily predicted, given the 2023/24 Ninja A-League Champions’ current drop in form. Going into the clash, Sydney had not won a game in the first two rounds of the season, which hasn’t happened since the 2018/19 season.

Western Sydney went into the derby, clearly looking to take advantage of their rival’s recent shortcomings, putting intense tactical pressure on the attacking end, while searching for their first Sydney Derby goal since 2019. The visitors’ determination paid off early on, earning them the first real chance of the match, with a header from Paige Hayward in the 3rd minute, which was ultimately blocked.

Both sides kept the momentum up for the first half, however neither was able to really assert themselves. Although possession was fairly even, it did seem that the Wanderers had the slight upper hand towards the start, capitalizing on their strengths, and playing with a technicality that has been somewhat absent from their game this season.

There were a number of free kicks from both sides, none of which could be turned into a goal, or even a real chance at either end.

Sydney FCs first big chance came from Shea Connors in the 11th minute. Although the shot was blocked by Western Sydney’s Ella Buchanan, it set the hosts up for a streak of strong attempts, shifting the match to a much more even one on the attacking end.

The energy did not falter as halftime approached, with the opponents equally striving to break the deadlock. Though there was no shortage of opportunities, it appeared that the pressure of such a critical match prevented either side from finishing, falling short several times through the first half.

With just a few minutes left in the first half, it looked as though if there was to be a goal before the break, it would come from Western Sydney Wanderers. Striking partners Sophie Harding and Cushla Rue continued to put pressure on the champions, however, Sydney’s defense proved too strong to let a goal through, leaving the match scoreless at halftime.

Following quite a frantic first half, the match returned with a new sense of structure in both teams, despite there being no halftime substitutions. The first substitution of the match was not a planned one, when Sydney FCs Faye Bryson was subbed off after what appeared to be a hip injury. Abbey Lemon replaced Bryson, in the 48th minute, marking her first game of the season.

The physicality and intensity continued through the second half, and although both sides came back seeming much more sure of themselves, it was still unclear which way the match would go, as it seemed increasingly likely that the derby would end in a draw, for the first time since 2021.

Sydney FC’s substitutions proved to be the answer to this tight clash when Caley Tallon-Henniker replaced Mackenzie Hawkesby. Though Hawkesby played an excellent game in her 74 minutes on the pitch, Tallon-Henniker brought a certain pace and aggression to the game that was needed for Sydney to assert themselves as the dominant side as stoppage time approached.

In the last 10 minutes of regulation, Sydney FC picked up their game, cleaning up their play, as it became a matter of when they would score, rather than if they would score.

The first and only goal of the match came from Sydney FC’s Caley Tallon-Henniker, assisted by Shay Hollam in the 86th minute, putting the hosts in the lead, and gearing them toward their first win of the season.

With the match now heavily in favour of Sydney FC, Western Sydney Wanderers were not willing to go down without a fight, maintaining the same intensity and spirit they started with, through to the last minute.

The 4 minutes of added time saw visitors desperately search for an equaliser, while Sydney continued to build towards a second goal. Despite their equal efforts, neither side was able to find the back of the net again, ending the match with a 1-0 victory to Sydney FC.

The win marks Sydney FCs first win of the season and their 6th consecutive Sydney Derby win.

Both Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers will return to Leichhardt Oval next weekend, playing in the A-League Unite Round. The Wanderers will face Brisbane Roar on Friday evening, as part of the weekend’s first doubleheader., while Sydney will conclude the unite round on Sunday, facing current table leaders, Melbourne City.

For more of Kris Goman’s photography for us from the game, check out our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball.

Teams: SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Edwards, Tumeth, Tobin, Thompson, Bryson, Lowry, Hawkesbt, Caspers, Dos Santos, Connors, Ibini. Substitutes: Franco, Hollman, Lemon, Luchtmeijer, Tallon-Henniker.

Goals: Tallon-Henniker 86’.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-4-2): Khamis, Hayward, Chessari, Harrison, Harding, Saveska, Matos, Buchanan, Rue, Younis, Harada. Substitutes: Segavcic, Ferrus, Price, Trew, Kapetanellis.

Referee: Isabella Mossin

Attendance: 3,324.

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Reds win against Canberra

By Alyce Collett 16/11/24

Above: Adelaide United celebrate a goal against Canberra United. Photo: Adelaide United

Canberra United 0-2 Adelaide United

Adelaide United have broken their duck against Canberra United, beating them for the first time in over two years.

A dominance in possession in the first half paired with goals from Emily Condon and Fiona Worts meant that the Reds had the ascendancy early, and did not let Canberra back into the match in the second half.

The first half was at times chaotic, but one thing that was consistent was that momentum was very much in the red corner.

Adelaide really dominated possession early, and although it took them over 10 minutes to get a goal, it felt like when not if those in red would eventually score.

The Reds did eventually take the lead after the Canberra defence was unable to confidently clear the ball, and Condon pounced to smash the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Condon continued to push for further scoring opportunities as the half progressed, really keeping the Canberra defence on their toes and was ably assisted by the likes of Worts and Lucía León.

Canberra did have brief moments of attacking potential, but just did not have the numbers to make anything happen. One thing that did not help the home side was that Maja Markovski was doing a lot of two way running, pushing back hard to help out the defence, which meant Canberra just did not have the numbers in attack and that meant Adelaide’s defenders were able to isolate Michelle Heyman and really quell her influence on the game. The home side was also too flatfooted at times in attack, which allowed Adelaide’s defence to pounce and intercept far too easily.

Adelaide eventually found a second goal with about 10 minutes to go in the half after Emily Hodgson snuck a pass passed Canberra’s defence to set up Worts in the box, who snuck a shot into the bottom corner to double the visitors’ lead.

Canberra almost responded moments after the restart, but Heyman’s subsequent shot went slightly wide.

The final few minutes of the half were rather chaotic.

Adelaide almost had a third goal for the half but Ella Tonkin’s goal was ultimately ruled offside, before Markovski missed an absolute sitter of a shot up the other end.

The half time stats really show how dominant Adelaide was in the first half.

The Reds held a solid lead in the passes (241 to 165) and held the ball in possession for almost 20% more of the half than their hosts. They only had five shots on goal though, but three of those were on target, which considering two of those were goals is quite impressive.

The other really interesting stat from the first half was around defence. Canberra recorded more tackles and more clearances, which considering how much more composed Adelaide were in defence compared to the hosts, this is not surprising.

The second half could not have been more different from the first.

Canberra started promisingly in the second half with aa number of chances from the likes of Markovski and half timesubstitute Jyanna Dos Santos, but the positioning of Adelaide’s defenders was really strong, and they were able to get their body perfectly in the way to block the Canberra shots.

Much of the second half was more end to end action and free flowing than the first half had been, with both sides having plenty of opportunities to score.

Adelaide did look the more likely of the two sides to score with their shots more on target than Canberra’s, but thanks to some brilliant saves from Sally James the Reds were unable to add to their tally. Canberra did have one really strong chance at a goal, but after a couple of deflections the Reds’ defence ultimately held strong to get the ball away.

Teams: CANBERRA UNITED (3-4-3): James, McKenzie, Anton, Murray, Stanic-Floody, Robers, Taylor-Young, Christopherson, Markovski, Bertolissio, Heyman. Substitutes: Dos Santos, Nathan, Majstorovic, Skelly, Malone.

ADELAIDE UNITED (4-3-3): Jenkins, E.Hodgson, Leon, Tolland, Tonkin, McNamara, Morgan, Dewey, Condon, Healy, Worts. Substitutes: Grove, Clarke, Grigg, Karambasis, Mullan.

Goals: Condon 11′, Worts 35’.

Attendance: 1,249.

Referee: Rebecca Durcau.

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City and Central Coast share the points

by Emma Burke (16/11/24)

Above: Melbourne City celebrate their second goal. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

Melbourne City 2-2 Central Coast Mariners

Under the sun at Casey Fields, Melbourne City and Central Coast Mariners have shared the spoils in a two-all draw for Round Three of the A-League Women.

It took City all of three minutes to open the scoring, when defender Alexia Apostolakis found herself in space outside the 18-yard box, firing a well placed shot into the top right hand corner of the goal.

Central Coast had a reply for City only two minutes later. Young striker Annalise Rasmussen pounced on a poor back-pass from defender Taylor Otto to her keeper Malena Mieres, leaving her to score into an open net.

City claimed the lead before half time through a free kick by Lourdes Bosch. Bosch’s delivery went through the legs of a teammate and an opposition player, catching Mariners keeper Sarah Langman off guard and unable to reach the ball in time.

Despite the mandatory breaks in play for drinks, the heat clearly had an impact on both teams.

The second half looked much slower than the first, and both side’s goalkeepers were put to the test, each making crucial saves.

Isabel Gomez found her side the equaliser, a perfect end to her week after been called up to the Matildas for the first time in her career.

An initial shot came in from English international Jade Pennock, which was blocked by a diving keeper, directly into the path of Gomez.

Gomez was able to put the ball over Mieres, and into the net, though it may have collected a final touch from Alexia Apostolakis in an effort to clear the ball.

In the final period of play both City and Central Coast made an effort to find a winner, though neither were able to do so.

With a point taken by each side, City remain top of the table, while Central Coast sit fifth.

As Round Four is Unite Round, both teams will head to Sydney for their fixtures at Leichhardt Oval. Central Coast Mariners will play Melbourne Victory on Saturday the 23rd of November at 2:15pm. City will play Sydney FC in a rematch of last year’s Grand Final on Sunday the 24th at 4:15pm.

For more of Tilly McDonald’s images from the game for us, check out our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball.

Teams: MELBOURNE CITY (4-3-3): Mieres, Apostolakis, Stott, Otto, Roestbakken, Pollicina, Huges, Davidson, Speckmaier, Harvey, Bosch. Substitutes: Vlajnic, Henry, McKenna, Karic.

Scorers: Apostolakis 3’, Bosch 33’.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-1-4-1): Langman, Martin, Irwin, Nash, Riley, Gomez, Nunn, Galic, Ray, Pennock, Rasmussen. Substitutes: Trimis, McMahon, Puxty, Quilligan

Scorers: Rasmussen 5’, Gomez 76’.

Referee: Kelly Jones.

Attendance: 562.

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A-League Women Media Conferences

Impetus’ Ava-Marianne Elliot reports on Canberra United and Central Coast Mariners press conferences ahead of their upcoming matches.

Canberra United

by Ava-Marianne Elliot

Coming off the back of their 1-0 away win at Wellington Phoenix, Canberra United are aiming to make it three for three in their opening run. This weekend, they face Adelaide United at home, and the task of obtaining the three points will be no easy feat.

One key thing Canberra have been working on across the opening three fixtures and their pre-season has been their defensive performances. Head coach Antoni Jagarinec outlined that the goals will inevitably come with such quality forwards, but not conceding as many shots as last season could make the difference in the long haul. Last weekend against Phoenix, the effort paid off as the side kept a clean sheet.

Ahead of their clash with a well-structured Adelaide, Jagarinec said the squad is mostly fresh and fit, however there is one concern in Aideen Keane. After picking up a knock in last weekend’s match, whether Keane will be match-fit is ‘touch and go.’ The young midfielder is being given until the last minute to prove her fitness, however if she is deemed unable to play this weekend, it’ll be a huge loss for Canberra.

**Above:** Canberra United celebrate, their team making a promising start to the A-League Women season. **Image:** Canberra United.

Alongside Jagarinec, Michelle Heyman also addressed the media, who further discussed the positivity amongst the squad. She said the spirits were high within the group, and a huge confidence boost had been given from obtaining those three points last weekend, making the long journey well worth it.

“It was incredible to see our defence and how well we’ve been performing in that area, especially compared to that last season where we ended up giving away goals in the last minute”.

Last weekend didn’t just see a win for her side, but another record for Heyman. Her goal saw her become the first ever player in the A-League Women’s to score 100 goals for a single club, however for Heyman, her focus isn’t trained on her personal achievements. “It’s nice, my younger self would be really stoked about it all. I think now that I’m getting older I’m just happy with the three points and continuing to win. I want to win trophies and I want to bring trophies home for Canberra United, so my main focus is to continue to score as many goals as I can, but it’s all for the team”.

Being part of a new frontline, Heyman also spoke on how the new combination is working. “I think we’re all on the same page and we’re very similar footballers as well so, I think we’re making similar runs all the time which is nice too”. For her, the experience of being part of a completely new front four has been exciting, and the rest of the season is looking positive.

Central Coast Mariners

by Ava-Marianne Elliot

Last weekend, Central Coast Mariners were held to a goalless draw away at Western United. In their upcoming fixture against Melbourne City, Head Coach Emily Husband outlined the importance of capitalising on opportunities in a difficult draw.

**Above:** The Mariners overjoyed after a goal, starting off strong. **Image:** Central Coast Mariners

Regarding the result against Western United, Husband said “there were areas where we definitely could’ve been better, and should’ve been better”. Ultimately, walking away with a clean sheet and a point was a positive result, despite it not being the best case scenario.

The squad have been putting in the hard work, and Husband has hope the effort will translate to the pitch so that they start to see results consistently across the season. “Look, I can’t speak highly enough of them. At the end of the day everything we’re asking them to do they’re doing, it’s just then implementing it and obviously still getting to know a few of the new faces and integrating those into the team”.

With City next up, it’s a difficult fixture to head into as the away side. “We know that Melbourne City will always be one of the top teams up there, so for us it’s always about going there and making sure we’re competitive”. Since City are such a strong side, Mariners will have to have an element of bravery, and take their chances in and out of possession to attempt to match the home side.

To round off, Husband spoke on Jessika Nash and the impact she’s had so far as a newcomer. “She’s one who always wants to learn and always wants to improve and that’s the type of player we want within our squad”.

Reflecting on last week’s performance, Nash spoke on how the point was gladly taken against Western United. Heading into their game against City, Mariners will be striving to walk away with all three. Leading into the game with two strong performances behind them, there are a lot of positives to take. “With the team and the standards that we hold, we want to get three points week in and week out so for us it’s a reflection, and how can we improve that for the next week”.

When asked about how she’s finding life with Central Coast Mariners and how she’s fitting in with the squad, Nash expressed how much she’s enjoying being part of the team. “I’m absolutely loving it here on the Coast. The girls and the coaching staff, if not just the whole entire club it’s truly a family and for me you play your best football when you’re happy and enjoying it, so for me it’s been incredible”.

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Clare Hunt Exclusive Interview

Above: Clare Hunt on signing day with Tottenham. Image: Tottenham Hotspur.

by Genevieve Henry (15/11/24).

Ahead of tomorrow’s huge North London derby in the Women’s Super League with Tottenham Hotspur Australian defender Clare Hunt answered Genevieve Henry’s questions about her transition to England, rapid ascent with the Matildas, and ultimate goals with Spurs.

Hunt has been on a meteoric trajectory since her first national team call up in 2023. After an impressive run of seasons with Western Sydney Wanderers and Canberra United in the A-League Women, the defender was immediately entrusted with a starting spot for the Matildas and she hasn’t given it up yet.

Not having set a single foot wrong throughout the Women’s World Cup, Hunt gained international attention and earned a move to Paris Saint Germain. This European summer, Hunt was once again on the move and Tottenham Hotspur were lucky enough to sign the stalwart centre back.

There were many factors that drew Hunt into Tottenham, but at the top of her list was playing time. “For me, it’s important to continuously get minutes under my belt. I’m excited to continue to develop these next few seasons with Tottenham and enjoy my time here in London.”

“It’s been really good, really easy to settle in. I’m enjoying my time here. The club is really welcoming, the facilities are great, and I think the people here are great. I feel like it’s an opportunity for me to develop and get to play against quality opposition, week in and week out.”

“Just getting game time is really important because it allows me to develop, it allows me to make mistakes and learn, it allows me to have successes and recognize those as successes in the way that I play.”

“Getting minutes here at Spurs has really helped me and given me confidence moving forward in playing against top teams. Having relatively consistent performances is something I want to do and continue to do throughout the season, so I think being alongside some other Aussies makes it more familiar and helps me with that.”

The Australian contingent not only at Tottenham, but all over London and England has been a major positive for Hunt, alongside other similarities.

“I feel like the culture here is not too different from home, so it makes it quite easy to settle in. I’d say it’s easier to settle in than Paris with that language and cultural barrier. It’s been a really smooth transition for me and it’s allowed me to progress quickly in transitioning into the football here.”

Above: Hunt celebrates a win with the Matildas. Image: Football Australia.

Tottenham has been continuously improving over the past few years and Hunt sees that potential and hopes to help take the club to greater heights.

“I want to get to a point where Tottenham is a club that’s undeniably competitive in the Women’s Super League and we’re sitting up at the top of the ladder, year in, year out; and we’re competing for Champions League positions, and in the Champions League. That is a mark I want to leave at Tottenham and be a part of something bigger here.”

“I think it’s a great competition (the WSL), I think each weekend you go into, you’re not one hundred percent sure that you’re gonna take points away from it; whether you play a top team or a bottom team, it’s tough competition. I also feel like the pace of the game is to a decent standard and it’s allowing me to grow, to lead in this team, and to be a player that wants to develop and help develop others. I’m really enjoying it.”

Hunt recently scored her first goals for both club and country. She attributes it to the freedom she has been given to prove herself on set pieces. “It’s quite nice to have that flexibility and show what I can do up the other end of the pitch.”

Hunt’s career has been full of quick adjustments and big steps up, all of which she has handled with remarkable grace and poise.

“I think my attitude helps me a lot, just to continually try and progress. It’s quite important to start and to play, and that’s something I want to do. That’s a big contributing factor in how I can be a leader or a figure on a team who can drive others to want to win and want to improve. That drives me to be the best player and best person that I can.”

“Every little process requires an adjustment period, and I think for me, I didn’t necessarily get granted that when I cracked into the national team…It was almost like ‘hey, you’re a regular starter now, so make the most of it and stay there.’ Now that I have that confidence in myself and also that feeling that I can do it, I know I can be a regular starter in decent teams and the national team, so for me it’s just being consistent in my effort throughout the week, whether that’s in gym or training.”

One of the factors that has helped Hunt to gain such incredible opportunities in her career is her levelheaded-ness and composure. She puts it all down to her ability to read the game.

“Sometimes I might look calm but I don’t necessarily feel as calm inside. It’s just understanding how the opposition plays. I think once you understand the way they press, or the way they move, it’s gonna be relatively predictable for you.”

Above: Hunt and compatriot Charli Grant training with Spurs. Image: Tottenham Hotspur.

“I play against some really amazing players, but I also feel like defending is easier than attacking, so I have the upper hand anyway.”

In her still surprisingly young career in the spotlight, Hunt has played in front of some incredible audiences, which she may become accustomed to with bigger crowd sizes at some WSL clubs’ grounds.

“To play in front of big crowds, it’s a privilege, it’s an amazing opportunity to show people what you can do, but it’s also just an opportunity to enjoy it. I think it’s amazing that on a Sunday I can go to work and have 50,000 people want to watch what I do for a living. That’s really, really cool. There’s so much exposure around women’s football now, I think it’s great. It’s quite exciting to be a part of that.”

Hunt also spoke about her excitement at the promise of a big crowd at the North London Derby. With Aussies Hayley Raso and Charli Grant at Spurs with Hunt, as well as Caitlin Foord, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Steph Catley at Arsenal, tomorrow’s match will be highly attractive to audiences in Australia.

It’s safe to say no matter who emerges victorious, North London will be green and gold. Hunt’s first game against Arsenal should be one to remember, especially as Tottenham have made huge strides to catch up in the rivalry. Hunt will surely put her best foot forward and once again show the world what she can do in this monumental match-up.

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Matildas new names join seasoned pro’s

By Emma Burke 15/11/24

Above: Matilda McNamara rejoins the national team. Photo: Football Australia

The Matildas’s final squad for 2024 has been announced by interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni at AAMI Park this morning, featuring seven uncapped players, and eight players with 10 caps or less.

The squad boasts 36 names, a mixture of players based both locally in the A-league, and across the globe.

“There’ll be certain players who won’t be able to be here for the whole window,” said Sermanni, regarding the size of the squad.

“We had a big list of players… it was touch and go between the players we picked and the ones who missed out,” he said.

New names include Morgan Aquino (DC Power), Leah Davidson (Melbourne City), Isabel Gomez (Central Coast Mariners), Hana Lowry (Sydney FC), and Natasha Prior (Newcastle Jets FC).

This squad also sees Tottenham attacker Hayley Raso, and Liverpool goalkeeper Teagan Micah both return from hamstring and ankle injuries respectively.

Experienced Matildas and fan favourites in Alex Chidiac, Chloe Logarzo, and Emily Gielnik all return to the national team fold, due to their impressive starts to the 2024/25 A-League Women’s season.

Australia will face familiar foes Brazil in Brisbane on the 28th of November, a celebration match for defender Clare Polkinghorne, who will be making her last appearances for the Matildas in this window of games.

The Brisbane game will be followed by a rematch on the 1st of December, down on the Gold Coast.

The squad will then head down to Victoria to play two games against Chinese Taipei one at AAMI Park on the 4th of December, and then their final fixture on the 7th of December in Geelong at GMHBA Stadium.

Regarding the Head Coach position, Sermanni was clear about his tenure in the role while the FA look to fill the position full-time.

“I’m here as the interim coach for as long as the FA wants me to be here,” he said.

“There is no time limit, I’ll be here for as long as I am required.”

“You may have to put up with me for a while yet.”

Matildas Squad

Morgan Aquino

Mackenzie Arnold

Ellie Carpenter

Steph Catley

Alex Chidiac

Kyra Cooney-Cross

Leah Davidson

Caitlin Foord

Mary Fowler

Sharn Freier

Daniela Galic

Emily Gielnik

Isabel Gomez

Katrina Gorry

Charlotte Grant

Winonah Heatley

Bryleeh Henry

Michelle Heyman

Clare Hunt

Alanna Kennedy

Chloe Lincoln

Chloe Logarzo

Hana Lowry

Matilda McNamara

Teagan Micah

Jessika Nash

Courtney Nevin

Clare Polkinghorne

Natasha Prior

Hayley Raso

Jamilla Rankin

Karly Roestbakken

Remy Siemsen

Emily Van Egmond

Clare Wheeler

Tameka Yallop

Phallon Tullis-Joyce: Stepping into big boots with style

by Boh Blythin (12/11/24)

Above: Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce. Photo: Manchester United.

Phallon Tullis-Joyce came to the WSL with huge expectations and big boots to fill. Replacing Mary Earps was no easy job.

During her five years at Manchester United, Earps was able to win many awards; internationally, domestically, and personally.

After playing around 40 games for both Reims and OL Reign in two years with both clubs, Tullis-Joyce did not get the game time or experience at United during her first season. Now that Earps has left the club, the New York-born shot-stopper has stepped up.

Since the club’s opening game at Old Trafford in September, Tullis-Joyce has proved her worth by only conceding three league goals. In an interview with the BBC, Manchester United manager Marc Skinner described Tullis-Joyce as “the best shot-stopper I have ever worked with in my life.”

Above: Phallon Tullis-Joyce with Leah Galton. Photo: Manchester United.

The six-foot-one American is full of confidence and commands her penalty area brilliantly. Tullis-Joyce is very vocal, helping to organise her defence and give them extra guidance.

Due to her height, the keeper is well-placed to deal with crosses and set pieces. She stays composed well under pressure, with her ability to make critical saves in important moments keeping Manchester United a competitive and attacking side in tight and challenging matches.

Good game reading means Tullis-Joyce understands how to handle quick turnovers and help United transition from defence to offence. A skill like this is valuable, meaning fast delivery of the ball enables teammates to catch opponents off guard.

Since the opening of the WSL’s 24/25 season, the talented keeper has provided standout performances in key matches. An example is her performance against Arsenal where she used all of the positive attributes she brings to the club to ensure that United were able to claim a vital point. Her impactful saves have meant her teammates can maintain their momentum and strive to play to their best potential.

Overall, Phallon Tullis-Joyce has been a key aspect to the development of the United squad, building their defence and providing a steady foundation within the team to help on building their attacking play. Her signing showcases United’s ambitions to compete at their highest level. The keeper is going to be one to watch throughout the season as she continues to fill the boots of Earps.

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Has the rapid growth of the Matildas put them under performance altering pressure?

by Ella McShane (11/11/24)

Above: The Matildas come together in the huddle. Photo: Football Australia.

The infamous penalty shootout, the crushing defeat inflicted by Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses, the society-altering rise of women’s sport. The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup undoubtedly left an unprecedented legacy defined by love, loss, and a united Australia. Foord’s statement echoes the thoughts of millions of Australians when discussing the Women’s World Cup legacy.

“It’s something we never thought would happen in a million years.”

Matildas’ striker Caitlin Foord, discussing the legacy left by the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on the Howie Games podcast

As spectator, I can only describe my commitment to the sport as something positive I get to experience in my life. However, now that I have been following the Matildas across club and country, for over a year, I am beginning to observe basic longitudinal sport psychology.

Although the impact of the World Cup was largely positive, there are still an unprecedented number of eyes on the squad. And unique to the women’s game, this all happened rather quickly. I can help but wonder has this put the Matildas under pressure that was grossly unprecedented?

When looking for the answer, I turned to sports psychology and came across two terms.

Social inhibition: “the tendency for otherwise apparent behaviours to be minimised in the presence of others” (Oxford Academic, 2016).

Social Facilitation: “an improvement in the performance of a task in the presence of others” (S. McLeod, 2023).

Above: A packed Stadium Australia supporting the Matildas during the 2023 World Cup. Photo: Ben Gilby.

To put it simply, does the presence of spectators increase negative anxiety within the athlete or does it fill them with the needed adrenaline to rise to the occasion. Whether or not an athlete experiences either one of these psychological phenomena depends on the nature of the sport and “the situation and the characteristics of the of both the athlete and the others present”. (L.Chareyre. et al, n.d.)

In the Matildas’ case however, you’ve gone from match attendances being described as an “11,271-strong crowd” one year to 18 months later, you’ve sold out Stadium Australia and 76,000 people have turned up to a friendly on a cold Monday evening. From a humanistic standpoint, it doesn’t take much empathy too understand how that sort of pressure, accelerating in that sort of time frame, would be an enormous task to rise to as an athlete.

What would go on inside your head both in your everyday and professional life? However, I am not a professional athlete, thus research within sports psychology is the only reliable source of explanation available. And like many issues and questions posed in the women’s game, this exact psychological phenomenon has yet to be specifically researched. Despite it impacting many female athletes, who are experiencing the rapid development of their respective games.

When we analyse the current state of any sports team, we draw conclusions from the results. During the World Cup, the Matildas earnt themselves the greatest ever Australian World Cup performance on paper. However, the results that have followed haven’t exactly “lived up to the hype”. With the team dropping from eleventh to fifteenth in the latest FIFA rankings released in August of 2024.

Therefore, posing the question, have they crumbled under the post-World Cup pressure and are now experiencing a form of social inhibition as a team? Many anecdotal explanations come to mind.

On the one hand, I believe some of the criticism the squad is receiving is warranted. There have been some games over the last 15 months that I can only describe as ‘lukewarm at best’. The football lacked confidence and the tactics did not seem to adapt well to an opponent. Who are the Matildas post World Cup?

On the other hand, I believe a large majority of the discourse surrounding this team was, at the time of the World Cup, ill-informed. This stemmed largely from press giants interested in making quick money and thus manifested into public. Most of the Australian public were introduced to this squad, at a time when this team was in peak form during a time of peak interest.

**Above:** Kyra Cooney-Cross hits her incredible goal for Australia against Germany. **Photo:** Football Australia.

High expectations were well earned by the Matildas and then exaggerated by the press. A lot of the time, it was not mentioned what a lot of firsts this truly was for the girls. The quarter finals for example. To hold off the, at the time, world number two’s France, for two hours, was a victory in itself.

Looking forward, the future of this Matildas squad does not need to be viewed as one big question mark. The October international break revealed the qualities in this team that have carried it from its foundations, all the way to the 2023 World Cup on home soil.

In the first game, the Matildas took on Switzerland. The result, a lack lustre 1-1 draw. In the second match, they took on the world number four Germany that held a 3-0 victory over their heads, from the disappointing Olympic campaign. The first fifteen minutes were less than ideal for the Aussies, with Germany holding most of the possession and goal in hand five minutes in.

Then, a fire re-ignited by Kyra Cooney Cross’ screamer, scored just before half time. The play was patient, the possession was taken back, and we witnessed some world-class one-v-ones between Australian striker Caitlin Foord and the German backline. Confidence radiated from the pitch. They refused to say die.

So, to answer the question has the rapid and somewhat unprecedented growth of the Matildas, put them under performance-altering pressure? I believe it has but for both better and worse.

There have been moments over the last 15 months, that have posed valid questions regarding the squad’s longevity to maintain results. Getting knocked out of the Olympics at the group stages, the three-spot decline in the FIFA World rankings, disconnected tactics that result in disappointing scoresheets and goal differences.

But the Matildas have gained a very important twelfth player, the masses of fans. Who in February of this year, saw them defeat Uzbekistan 10-0 at home and qualify for the Olympics. When in the first leg of that qualifier, Australia only managed three goals past world-ranked forty-eighth Uzbekistan at their home match in Tashkent.

The win against Germany has hopefully instilled a new sense of confidence in this squad. Because at the centre of this team and its fans, there are Aussies that refuse to “Never Say Die.”

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Heyman’s hundredth secures Canberra win

Wellington Phoenix 0 Canberra United 1

By Joe Rosedon 11/11/24

Above: Michelle Heyman, Maja Markovski and Mary Stanic-Floody. Photo: Canberra United.

A hundredth Canberra United goal from Michelle Heyman combined with a superb second half performance from goalkeeper Sally James was enough to keep up their perfect start to the season, defeating Wellington Phoenix 1-0.

The only goal in the game came in the eleventh minute. A great team move saw Heyman lay the ball off to Emma Robers on the centre circle. Robers then split the Wellington defence open with an intricate through ball to Maja Markovski. Markovski was able to hold off Tiana Jaber in the box, remain composed and square the ball to Heyman for the simplest of finishes.

Wellington were positive with their response, getting into promising positions but unable to produce many clear cut goal scoring opportunities and trouble Sally James. Likewise,

Canberra were unable to really create anything of substance after their goal until the back end of the first half

Mary Stanic-Floody found Heyman in the box. In classic centre-forward fashion, Heyman flicked the ball onto an onrushing Aideen Keane who was met bravely by Carolina Vilão to smother the ball.

Keane again could have scored. Grace Jale gave the ball away cheaply and the counter was on. Keane was in behind the Wellington defensive line but skewed her effort wide of the target.

The half time interval seemed to do Wellington some good. From kick off, the home side were on the attack, working it to Manaia Elliott in the penalty area. Elliott could only fire over the bar from a tight angle

The highlight of the game however was soon to follow. Wellington captain Annalie Longo’s dog fancied a kick about. After jinking through the midfield, the dog was cynically brought down by Longo and returned to the touchline.

This brilliant play brought the biggest cheer of the afternoon from the Yellow Fever who launched into a rendition of Who Let the Dogs Out.

Longo’s dog seemed to give her and Wellington newfoundpurpose. Her lofted corner was met by a rising Jale. The ball looked destined for the net. James had other ideas, producing a tremendous reflex save.

Wellington were starting to ramp up the pressure. Emma Main fired straight at James from the right-hand side whilst Alyssa Whinham was inches away from an equaliser, striking the post from the edge of the area.

James again was called into action. The keeper palmed Jale’scross into the pass of Whinham. With the goal at her mercy, Whinham somehow lifted the ball over the bar. Elliot came close again, her near post attempt pushed away for a corner by James. Canberra were holding on for dear life.

Another Wellington corner in the dying stages almost drew them level. James stood strong again by meeting Jale’s header with a strong palm to keep the away sides lead intact and insuring a first victory for Canberra in New Zealand.

Teams: WELLINGTON PHOENIX: Vilão, Jaber, Lake, Barry, Elliott, Longo, McCutcheon, McMeeken, Whinham, Main, Jale. Subtitutes: Feingberg-Danieli, Fergusson, Tanaka, Brazendale, Wall.

CANBERRA UNITED: James, Taylor-Young, Anton, McKenzie, Christopherson, Malone, Stanic-Floody, Robers, Markovski, Heyman, Keane Substitutes: Majstrorovic, Murray, Dos Santos, Nathan, Bertolissio.

Scorer: Heyman 11’.

Referee: Beth Rattray.

Attendance: 645.

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Wanderers fall short to Adelaide at home

Western Sydney Wanderers 0-2 Adelaide United

By Alice de Koster-Kitto (10/11/24)

Above: Adelaide United mob Emily Condon after her goal. Photo: Adelaide United

Wanderers Football Park saw Adelaide United uphold their six-game winning streak against Western Sydney Wanderers, in a 2-0 victory over the hosts.

With both sides going in with something to prove, their determination was displayed from the start. However, Adelaide seemed to capitalise on this pressure, dominating from the first touch. The first real chance of the match came from the youngest player on the pitch, when Adelaide’s Sian Dewey, just 17 years old, made an impressive attempt from outside the box in the 4th minute.

While possession remained fairly even throughout the match, the visitors continued to dominate, taking advantage of what seemed to be quite a disorganised Wanderers squad. Adelaide played with great force, taking continuous shots very early on, whilst Western Sydney could not seize any opportunities.

In a frightening turn of events, Adelaide United’s Lucia Leon went down with what seemed to be a shoulder injury, causing a delay in the game at the 24th minute. Though the injury was seemingly quite significant, Leon returned to play after receiving treatment.

It soon became apparent that the Wanderers took advantage of the delay, coming back in a much more organised fashion, particularly in the defensive line. However, the hosts were yet to make an attempt on goal.

There was another significant delay in the 31st minute when Wanderers defender Madison McComasky suffered a shoulder injury following a clash with Adelaide’s Erin Healy. After receiving treatment, it was decided that McComasky needed to leave play, and was replaced by Talia Younis.

Cushla Rue made the first attempt for the Wanderers, with a missed shot from outside the box, as the pressure built towards the tail end of the first half. A second attempt was made by Sienna Saveska shortly after but was ultimately saved by Claudia Jenkins.

Both sides took a few corners during the first half, however, neither was able to take advantage and turn it to a goal.

It was Adelaide United who opened the scoring during stoppage time, when Emily Condon shot from range, scoring a much-awaited, and well-earned goal, leaving the visitors 1-0 up at halftime.

Fiona Worts found the South Australian side’s second goal of the match, scoring just a minute into the second half with an assist from Healy.

The match returned to play with a significant increase in energy, with a run of solid attempts from both sides early on. The lead from Adelaide looked to have motivated Western Sydney, as their play became much more structured, and they began taking opportunities.

As the game approached stoppage time, the aggression increased, with Wanderers desperately looking for a late goal at their first home game of the season, while Adelaide shifted their tactics to play much more defensively

While they put up a fight toward the tail end, the home side’s sudden shift in momentum was no match for Adelaide’s consistent dominance, and they were not able to find the back of the net.

Western Sydney Wanderers will face Sydney FC, in a highly contentious Sydney Derby next Saturday at Leichhardt Oval. Although the Wanderers most recent success against Sydney was a draw in 2021, the 2023/24 A-League Women champions are yet to win a game this season. Should Western Sydney take this round’s loss in their stride, and work towards creating a more cohesive structure, they could have a real chance at victory in their first derby of the season.

Adelaide United will head to McKellar Park next, to face Canberra United who are currently second on the ladder after winning both of their opening games.

Teams: WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (4-4-2): Khamis, Hayward, McComasky, Chessari, Harrison, Price, Saveska, Matos, Harada, Rue, Harding. Substitutes: Hall, Bennett, Kapetanellis, Cassar, Younis.

ADELAIDE UNITED (4-5-1): Jenkins, Healy, Morgan, Dewey, Condon, Leon, Hodgson, Tonkin, McNamara, Tolland, Wort.s Substitutes: Grove, Karambasis, Clarke, Grigg, Mullan.

Goals: Condon 45+ 6′, Worts 46’

Referee: Caitlin Williams.

Attendance: TBD

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