Contact Ann Odong on laceup@live.com.au
or 0433 816 000
with club news or information you'd like featured on these pages.
26.11.2010
KATHRYN REIGNS IN ASIA
Forget Kate Middleton, Australia already has a Queen Kathryn and on Wednesday night the 25 year old was crowned the AFC Women’s Player of the Year in Kuala Lumpur.
“To be honest with you I don’t think it has really sunk in yet,” said a still shocked Katie Gill. “I was actually just gobsmacked. I didn’t expect to win that award at all.”
“It was some stiff competition and I was just amazed to hear my name come out over those two.”
The two players she speaks of are Japan’s Homare Sawa and North Korea’s Jo Yun-mi and although tiny in stature, both are giants of Asian football. Sawa is considered Japan's finest female footballer making her Japanese National League debut at just 12 years old and twice being crowned the AFC Women's Player of the Year (2004, 2008). Jo Yun-mi was voted the MVP in the Asian Cup and Australians will remember her scoring the equaliser in the Asian Cup Final.
However, you don’t become the Asian footballer of the year for no reason. Often touted as the female Mark Viduka, on the park Gill is an imposing figure. At 180cm, the forward towers over her markers and uses that, and the other weapons in her arsenal, to great effect.
"For me I am a target player so I rely a lot on my first touch, holding up the ball and obviously heading the ball because I do have some height and size about me."
"Its those things that I need to be good at and with me being good at that then I can contribute and compliment the girls around me."
"Its just the little improvements along the way that keep me motivated and keeps me wanting to work hard."
"The system we play currently with the national team with three up front works perfectly for me. It means that I have that central role and can link in or face up and score goals as well."
Off the pitch she is the consummate professional. After flying out on Tuesday night, receiving the award Wednesday night and flying back into Perth Thursday at 3pm, many would be forgiven for taking it easy. But barely two hours later, she was back training with her W-League side Perth Glory.
National coach Tom Sermanni is not surprised.
“Coming from where she was a year ago to now being crowned Asian Women's Player of the Year and being a vital player in our team its really pleasing," he said.
"Katie is a great lesson for any player about what they can achieve my focus and hard work and determination."
Katie Gill has put in some power performances and scored some crucial goals in the gold shirt this year. None was more vital than the goal against Japan in the semi-finals of the Asian Cup. Not only did the goal give the Matildas a final berth, it sent them to the World Cup.
“It was incredibly tough for us,” she remembers. “I mean we defended for pretty much the whole of the game but it was a credit to the girls and their discipline and their desire to win the game.”
“It took me to be in the right place at the right time and I was fortune enough to be on the end of the ball and put it in the back of the net.”
"It was a team performance and we were just really happy to win that game and make it through to the final."
In the last 12 months Gill has been scoring consistently for both her clubs Perth Glory and LdB Malmo. She took out the Glory Golden Boot with 4 goals, her 9 goals helped LdB to the Swedish Damallsvenskan title and the Golden Boot in the recent Peace Queen Cup tournament.
"I think it has just been about confidence."
"You start scoring goals and then that boosts your confidence and then it kind of just snowballs from there."
Gill has been a fixture in the national team for the past five years and heading into the World Cup she will be an integral part of the Australian attack and team.
26.11.2010
GILL NAMED ASIA’S TOP PLAYER
Katie Gill has capped a superb twelve months for club and country by being crowned the AFC Women’s Player of the Year. The Perth Glory Women striker was a key figure in Australia’s successful Women’s Asian Cup campaign, scoring the goal which booked the Matilda’s place at next year’s Women’s World Cup, before putting taking out the Golden Boot at the recent Peace Queen Cup. “I am very humbled. It’s great just to be nominated but to win is, yeah, very humbling,” said 25-yeatr old Gill.
Gill, who international scoring spree has been matched at club level with Malmo (Sweden) and Perth Glory, paid tribute to the Matildas’ long-serving coach Tom Sermanni. “It has been a great 2010 for the Matildas - winning the Asian Cup and of course qualifying for the World Cup next year,” comment Gill. “As players we have grown with Tom as Tom has grown as a coach. He respects the players and in turn the players respect him. He knows how to bring out the best in the players.”
Australia made a clean sweep of the major individuals awards with newly capped Socceroo Sasa Ognenovski named the Player of the Year, while the Matilda’s were installed as the Women’s National Team of the Year. Additionally, Australia’s commitment to social development through football was recognised with the inaugural Dream Asia Award. The Men’s National Team of the Year was taken out by Japan, while South Korea’s Seongnam Ilhwa picked up the Club of the Year.
29.10.2010
TRICOLORE DOMINATE SEASON
The East Fremantle Tricolore U/15's Premier League Girls team went throughout the year without losing a single game in 2010.
The girls have been nicknamed the “Invincibles” after winning the League title undefeated (without dropping a single point), Cup Final and Top 4 Cup Final.
Not only did the team win the treble, they did it with style playing a very attractive brand of football which combined, power, pace and composure, the team
consisted of a young vocal goal keeper, a solid compact back four conceding only four goals in the home and away fixtures, a midfield combination of strength
and creativity using wide players and up-front strikers with genuine pace and an eye for goal netting a combined 56 goals.
All in all a fantastic player group with a terrific winning mentality installed by two very capable coaches in David Moore & David Oliver with
their main emphasis on player development.
The Invincibles consisted of Lauren Blackledge, Zoe Covell, Rachel Oliver (Captain), Emma Neville, Madi Neville, Annie Kennedy, Tayla Cleave, Tia Stonehill, Acacia Gratton, Hannah Dixon, Mel Daniels , Evie Wood, Becky Moore, Emily Burton and Amy Smeding.
29.10.2010
GERMANY TOO GOOD FOR MATILDAS
The Matildas have been narrowly beaten 2-1 by world champion Germany in last night's friendly at Volkswagen Arena in Wolfsburg. Perth Glory striker Sam Kerr put Australia in front midway through the first half, however, the hosts struck back soon after through Inka Grings with Martina Muller hitting a second half winner. "We played against the best team in the world. "I am happy with the effort - I am happy with the commitment," coach Tom Sermanni said. "We wanted to be competitive and get experience. We showed a good overall performance and I am pleased with the way things went."
Germany's dominance of the opening exchanges counted for little when Kerr delicately chipped over goalkeeper Urulsa Holl in the 28th minute after being found by Collette McCallum. But the lead lasted only eight minutes before Fatmire Bajramaj's cross was lashed into the net by Grings, giving 'keeper Melissa Barbieri no chance. The match was decided on 71 minutes when Muller pushed the ball past Barbieri, who had parried the striker's initial shot. Glory trio McCallum, Kerr and Katie Gill started the game, the latter replaced after 80 minutes, while Lydia Williams was an unused substitute.
2.10.2010
REDBACKS CUP QUEENS AGAIN
A polished team performance has seen the Northern Redbacks take out the 2010 Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup with a 3 - 0 win over a gallant Bunbury Forum Force.
Young winger Sarah Carroll once again displayed her big game temperament with a goal and two goal assists earning her the player of the match honours for the second year running.
Despite the score line it was not all one-way traffic for the Redbacks as Bunbury Forum Force came out of the blocks firing.
Force captain Lisa Ward and midfield partner Natasha Rigby controlled proceedings early as they strived to pick out lively strike duo Casey Webb and Kim McCartney.
Five minutes in the southwest side created the first chance of the game when Ward headed a cross just wide of the target under pressure.
Two minutes later sloppy midfield passing by the Redbacks gave Webb an opportunity to put in a dangerous cross but goalkeeper Jennifer Jobling was able negate the attack.
Spotting space on the right, Jobling’s intelligent clearance eventually worked its way to Carroll patrolling the right wing.
With a burst of speed, the winger cut inside before opening the scoring with a powerful strike from an acute angle.
Although stunned, the Force looked to regroup immediately and two minutes later quick build up play by Rigby and Therese Fletcher release McCartney.
In space, the forward looked to get off a shot but with fullback Amy Knights breathing down her neck she only managed to guide it straight at Jobling.
Growing in confidence, the Redbacks eventually managed to wrest possession from the Force and looked to capitalise.
A defensive hesitation in the 20th minute saw the dangerous Carroll ghosting in but this time her shot sailed across the face of goal with a lunging Carol Howes unable to met it at the back post.
Not long after a free kick saw the Redbacks edge closer to doubling their advantage. This time it was the crossbar that saved the Force with the goalscorer’s 20-yard strike rattling the woodwork.
On 25 minutes they had their buffer with right back Lyndsey Valentine initiating the attack as she picked out Carroll’s run.
In traffic, her through ball found the feet of Howes six yards out. Back to the goals and falling, the striker managed to get enough purchase on the ball to take it past a diving Sara King.
Seven minutes later Howes went close to adding a second as she finished off a Carla Bennett and Valentine move. This time her shot was well cleared off the line by the backtracking Michelle Lauren.
Undaunted, Bunbury Forum Force fashioned a golden opportunity three minutes later when Webb found herself in behind the defence and clear.
With the ‘keeper alone to beat, only a brilliant save from Jobling prevented the Force dragging one back as she palmed Webb’s strike onto the crossbar before capturing the rebound ball.
The Redbacks launched wave after wave of attack looking for the killer blow with midfield partners Willis and Williams’ squandering chances. First Willis’ volleyed into the crossbar from a corner, then Williams’ free header sailed disappointingly over the crossbar.
Despite the continued pressure, stalwart defending from the Force back four and alert goalkeeping from King kept the half time damage to just the two.
After the interval, referee Sam Musca had barely finished blowing his whistle to resume play before the Northern Redbacks sealed the game.
The third goal saw the Carroll/Howes partnership again proved fruitful when Howes tucked away a Carroll ball from six yards out.
Although three down, the Force continued to test the Redbacks’ defensive unit and five minutes later Lauren dropped in behind the defence but the ever alert Jobling reacted quickly to clear the danger area.
The 54th minute saw the Force set up their best chance of the second half as Ward’s diagonal ball released Casey Webb into space.
Again Jobling was quick to come out and although Webb dribbled around her, she was pushed wide and unable to get any power into the strike into an empty net.
The Redbacks had a final opportunity to add a fourth in the 80th minute when substitute Shawn Billiam completed her touchline run by squaring to Carroll centrally. With exquisite timing the winger volleyed first time only to see it slam into the near upright.
"It's something we started a couple of years ago," said pleased captain Nicola Williams on capturing the Cup for a third time in as many seasons. “It's always a very difficult tournament, especially towards the end so it’s good to have win and get that third one in a row."
"The whole team was feeling that we deserved something [from the season] and that we should work hard for this game.”
“That was probably our emphasis. Obviously to enjoy the game but also to work very hard because teams don't give up, it's a final, but if we did all the right things it would come together during the final."
Match Details:
Northern Redbacks 3 (Carroll 8' , Howes 25'/46')
Bunbury Forum Force 0
TEAMS
NORTHERN REDBACKS: GK. Jennifer JOBLING, 2. Shawn BILLAM, 4. Nicola WILLIAMS (Cap), 5. Lyndsey VALENTINE, 6. Carla BENNETT, 7. Carole HOWES, 9. Sarah CARROLL, 10. Jayde WILLIS, 11. Emily DUNN, 12. Amy KNIGHTS, 13. Rebecca DUDEK, 14. Jessica BYRNE, 15. Tui WINETI, 16. Zoe PALANDRI (RGK)
BUNBURY FORUM FORCE: GK. Sara KING, 2. Melissa GONZALEZ, 3. Casey WEBB, 4. Rebecca FALL, 5. Natasja HAGENAAR, 6. Lisa WARD (Capt), 7. Emma YOUNG, 8. Michelle LAUREN, 9. Kathleen WAYCOTT, 10. Kim McCARTNEY, 11. Carissa WRIGHT, 12. Stephanie WHILD, 13. Jocelyn KOWAL, 14. Veronica TUTISAI, 15. Therese FLETCHER, 16. Natasha RIGBY
26.9.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 21 REVIEW
The final day of the 2010 Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League saw newly crowned champions Balcatta SC grab a narrow win over UWA-Nedlands at home. Other matches saw East Fremantle finish off on a winning note with victory over Queens Park, the Beckenham Angels send off coach Leo Coppens in style as they downed Subiaco AFC and the Northern Redbacks defeat Bunbury Forum Force in a Cup Final preview.
Balcatta SC v UWA-Nedlands
A first half strike from Caitlin Dingle was enough for Balcatta SC see off the challenge of UWA-Nedlands. Vanessa Sakalidis almost got the visitors off to a perfect start when her first minute strike drifted across the goal face before eluding the Balcatta defence and the quickly arriving Stephanie Graskowski. Graskowski and her strike partner Amber Roberts proved valuable focal points early as the visitors looked to take advantage of the home side’s sluggish start. Ten minutes in Dingle kick started the champions as her shot forced Lindah Kavamburq to deflect the goalward bound ball around her near post. From then on Balcatta controlled the half with Prue Cormie, Domenica Carbone and Sarah Marek doing the damage centrally and Erin Walsh and Searna Michael providing drive down the wings. Cormie was next to try her luck in the 20th minute with her shot from distance seeing Kavamburq pull off another high quality save this time palming over the cross bar. However, minutes later Balcatta had the lead when Walsh’s throw in found the feet of Dingle. Turning her marker, the striker created some space before unleashing from 16 yards out past the outstretched Kavamburq.
UWA-Nedlands started off the second half the brighter with Adele Gardiner and the hard working Sakalidis halving the midfield possession. Out on the left flank, Bornie William’s pace looked to cause problems for the Balcatta defence as her work with Graskowski created small openings for the visitors. Despite the play, it was the home side who had the only real assaults on goal with Dingle seeing her first effort flash wide and the second again well foiled by Kavamburq. Unable to penetrate the Balcatta backline, Graskowski opted for the long-range strike but she aim was off as it fell easily into the arms of Helen Carroll. Ashleigh Panaia and Dingle were lively late but the Lauren McLawrence, Lorian Woolgav led defence held them at bay and conceding no further goals.
While unsatisfied with the result UWA-Nedlands coach Conrad McKelvie acknowledged the efforts of his team. “We were lethargic at times and we let them play in our half a little too much,” he stated. “But we turned it around in the second half and really put some pressure on them and threatened at times. It was an encouraging second half performance against the champions in light of the quality they have.”
As expected championship winning coach Lisa Tana was delighted not only with her side’s win but their 2010 campaign. “It’s obviously been a very difficult year for us and a rewarding one at the same.” she said. “I think this year has been the most competitive across the League and all of our girls dug deep at various moments of the season.”
“The older ones stood up when it counted and the younger ones also rose to the occasion, which was fantastic to see. To my girls well done.”
Queens Park v East Fremantle
Goals from Korien Bangoyan, the retiring Casey Herberner and Jessica Hunter gave East Fremantle a comfortable 3 – 0 win over Top 4 rivals Queens Park. The port side signalled their intentions early as 45 seconds in striker Korien Bangoyan netted her first premier league goal. Speedy winger Nicole Ritchie got the ball rolling as she teed up the striker just inside the area. Turning onto her left foot, Bangoyan rifled the ball to gave her side the lead from 12 yards out. Ten minutes later she went close to adding her second when Syliva Flynn picked her out. This time the effort flashed harmlessly wide of the upright. After being jumped early, Queens Park settled into the contest with Nikki Campbell and Gemma Langley leading the way. The home side’s first opportunity to level the scores came on the half hour as an Ellis Glanfield corner saw Stacey Learmont rise at the back post only to the guide the header wide.
The battle between Emma Murray and Monique Gordon on the left wing was a feature with both players driving forces for their sides. Crucially Katarina Jukic and Herberner were winning their midfield battle with Langley and Campbell and as the visitors attacked continually, the pressure finally told in the 38th minute. Ritchie was again involved as her cross found Bangoyan at the top of the 18 yard box. Bangoyan’s quick lay off to Herbener saw the midfielder in space and she happily picked up a goal in her last match for the port side. Despite being two down, Queens Park continued to battle and on the restart a defensive East Fremantle mix up saw Glanfield in on goal but she blasted her strike high and wide. The second half saw much of the same from East Fremantle as the Thunder worked to make in roads. Learmont had an early chance in the half but she placed her effort across the goal mouth. Jessica Hunter finally killed off any chance of a comeback when her goal put the result beyond doubt.
“They played wonderful team football today and they played ball around really well,” said a happy Tony Carvajal. “The defence was tight, midfield was creative and strong and our strikers did a fantastic job in finishing it all off.”
Beckenham Angels v Subiaco AFC
A brace from Elise Cunningham has helped the Beckenham Angels to a 5 – 2 win over Subiaco AFC at Mills Park. The Angels were another side to get off to a lightening start as the rattled the net within 33 seconds when Elise Cunningham played in Kirby Larsen at the back post. With yards of space in front of her, Larsen clinically tucked it away to give the home side the perfect start. Not long after the lead was doubled as the energetic Lizzie Courtley engaged the after burners to evade her opponent before the sliding Cunningham met her dangerous ball at the back post neatly. Three minutes later Courtley was back tormenting the Lions’ defence. This time her shot slammed into the cross bar onto Cunningham’s head but she was unable to guide it home.
Larsen continued the onslaught in the 30th minute as her run and cross just evaded the arriving Jessica Ferguson and Cunningham. Shell-shocked the Lions looked to regroup lead by Flo Tawns in the midfield. Kitty Foley and Meg Connop were instrumental defensively while Brooke Tillemans and Janine Gustavino started to present more frequently. Space began to appear for the visitors but they were unable to capitalise on the small openings and five minutes before half time they were punished for it. Unsurprisingly Courtley again instigated the attack. Picking up a loose midfield ball, she cut inside before finding Ferguson at the back post with the winger bagging the Angels’ third of the half.
Down by three at half time it was a positive Lions outfit that took to the park in the second half and just after the restart they had their first sight at goal. Midfielder Sonja Felderhof released Kristin Hulvey in space but she was unable to keep her attempt down. A minute later Larsen was down the other ending forcing stand-in goalkeeper Eileen Hadida to save down low. Despite the Lions’ working their way into the second half, they were dealt a blow on the hour mark when Courtley’s in swinging corner found the back of the net to her surprise. Not long after Subiaco were rewarded for their persistence as they pegged one back when Hulvey’s strike curled over the head of Kristy Teschinsky, slammed into the underside of the crossbar, dropped down before being adjudged over the line. Felderhof was proving influential centrally as her combinations with Hulvey, Alex Cassie and Janine Gustavino saw the Lions slip in behind the Claire Wragg led Angels’ defence. The last 15 minutes saw entertaining football from both sides with Gustavino and Cunningham ensuring the two sides squared the half.
Subiaco AFC coach Dan Evans was disappointed with their start but applauded his team on their efforts. “I would have liked to come out firing,” he said. “Second half we came out and we fough and the intensity was good so that was pleasing.”
In his final game and the helm Beckenham coach Leo Coppens with pleased with the result. “I thought we dominated but in the end 5 – 2 was a fair result.” After guiding the club since their promotion, Coppens’, and the versatile Claire Wragg, bows out in 2010 and leaves the club with an exciting future. “I believe I have established the Beckenham Angels as a sustainable club in the Premier League and leave them now with a now with a new coach who can take them to the next step with a lot of pride.”
Bunbury Forum Force v Northern Redbacks
The Northern Redbacks have defeated Bunbury Forum Force 4 – 1 at Hay Park with Sarah Carroll, Tui Wineti and Nicola Williams’ brace doing the damage. Kim McCartney managed to get on board for the Force but as expected it was a cagey affair with both side due to suit up once again for this Saturday’s Smarter than Smoking Women’s Cup Final.
19.9.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 20 REVIEW
Round 20 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League has seen Balcatta SC move one step closer to wrapping up the title with a win over Subiaco AFC. Meanwhile other matches saw Northern Redbacks continued their chase with victory over the Beckenham Angels, Queens Park defeat Top 4 rivals UWA-Nedlands and East Fremantle deny Bunbury Forum Force another Perth win.
Caitlin Dingle and Ashleigh Panaia continued their incredible partnership as their goals helped Balcatta SC to a 2 – 0 victory over Subiaco AFC. The goals see Dingle and Panaia the leading forwards for 2010 and, more importantly, take Balcatta closer to back-to-back titles. Subiaco weren’t without their chances but it was the young defence including Marissa Pidgeon, Megan Connop and Rosie Cocker who were impressive against the Balcatta onslaught.
“2 – 0 away from home against a team that could possibly be winning the League, and considering where we came from, I guess I am pretty pleased with that.” said Subiaco coach Dan Evans. “The two goals they scored were fantastic and I don’t think many teams can defend against that. Other than that I think we made it difficult for them.”
East Fremantle overcame a stubborn and determined Bunbury Forum Force 2 – 0 at Wauhop Park. Ines Salgado capitalised on a beautifully delivered Katarina Jukic corner to give the home side the lead in the first half before Casey Herbener sealed victory in the second half. Casey Webb and Lisa Ward continued their stellar form for the Force while Jukic, Herbener, Nicole Ritchie, Annique Keisler and Torri Revell stepped up to cover key absences.
East Fremantle coach Tony Carvajal was content with the result. “I thought we controlled the game although the opposition made it a difficult proposition at times,” he said. “All credit to Bunbury for the hard work throughout the 90 minutes. Congratulation to my team for continuing to continue to try and play football.”
The Northern Redbacks created four goals to see off the Beckenham Angels with a 4 – 0 result. Carol Howes was rewarded for her follow up work with two goals while Jackie Nellany returned to first team football with an 18 yard curling stunner and Shawn Billiam tapped in from close range from a corner. With the Redbacks controlling the ball and play, the Angels were forced to attack on the breakaway and came close to netting themselves. “We have just got to keep ourselves switched on for two weeks time.” said Tim Hodgson. “Obviously we have the Cup final and it’s a matter of us getting things right for that game.
A brace from Ellis Glanfield and goals from Stacey Learmont and Kylie Woodfin led Queens Park Thunder to a 4 – 0 win over UWA-Nedlands. Glanfield and Learmont finished off good performances with goals with Learmont’s pace and Glanfield’s skill causing problems for the home defence. Amber Roberts was instrumental for UWA-Nedlands with Adele Gardiner, Nell Clayton and goalkeeper Lindah Kavamburq all working hard to win their positions.
12.9.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 19 REVIEW
Goals from strike prolific strike duo Ashleigh Panaia and Caitlin Dingle and a player of the match performance from goalkeeper Helen Carroll has seen Balcatta retain their lead at the top of the Smarter than Smoking Women's League table. With just two rounds to go, the northern side and defending champions remain 2 points ahead of the chasing Northern Redbacks.
Queens Park threatened to be a tricky obstacle to overcome but the visitors declared their intent early. Caitlin Dingle had the first real opportunity in the 8th minute when she met a cross in the penalty area only to see it ricochet wide of the goal mouth. The warning shot woke up the home side and they looked to control proceedings with captain Gemma Langley, Ellis Glanfiend and Claire Dunn all proving influential. In the 20th minute Glanfield went close to breaking the deadlock as she stripped Allarice Keswell of position. One-on-one with Helen Carroll, it was a disappointing result for the home side as Glanfield struck straight at the 'keeper.
Five minutes later it was Langley's turn to rattle Balcatta as her 25 yard rocket slammed into the cross bar beyond the reach Carroll and the net. Langley proved a threat again in the 31st minute as she got on the end of a quick cross only this time she volleyed wide of an gapping goalmouth. Having absorbed the attacks Balcatta hit back hard with success. Firstly, midfielders Lauren Bushby and Sarah Marek combined well to spot up Dingle in the 37th minute but Maya Diederichsen was able to gather her goalward strike. Two minutes later, the visitors had the lead. A pinpoint clearance from the Carroll fell to Prue Cormie in space on the left wing. The midfielder's run and release put Ashleigh Panaia into space with the young striker finishing the move clinically.
The second half saw a similar first half arm wrestle ensue with Queens Park peppering the goals looking for an equaliser. A 55th minute quick counter attack by the Thunder put Stacey Learmont into space with her strike brilliantly tipped onto the near upright by Carroll. Four minutes later Balcatta had a chance to double their advantage when good midfield hassling by Panaia won the ball for played in her strike partner Dingle. The golden boot leader worked her way around the onrushing Diederichsen only to disappointingly hit the side netting.
With the Thunder looking to control the midfield, chances came thick and fast for the home side. First, Learmont picked out Glanfield at the top of the 6 yard box but pulled it wide. Then Langley's 65th minute through ball for Learmont saw the forward in space but Carroll was alert to the danger clearing quickly. A minute later a golden opportunity was given to Learmont with this time Nikki Campbell getting the timing right on her release. Again Carroll was fast to react as she closed down the angle and put enough pressure to see the forward shoot wide. Queens Park were made to pay for their misses when Carroll's clearance fell to Cormie on the left wing. In space, Cormie picked out Dingle and her turn strike snuffed out the game. Queens Park eventually did get a consolation goal with Learmont finishing off another counter attack but it was too late in the proceedings.
OTHER MATCHES
Goals from Bunbury Forum Force's Theresa Fletcher and UWA-Nedlands' Amber Roberts helped their teams gain a point in a 1 - 1 draw. The Northern Redbacks continued to mount the pressure on Balcatta as they defeated Subiaco AFC 3 - 0 courtesy of Carol Howes and a brace from Aleisha Dyer. Finally, a Katarina Jukic hattrick and singles to Jessica Hunter and Casey Heberner has helped the port side to a 5 - 1 win over the Beckenham Angels to keep their slim title hopes alive.
3.9.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: ROUND 18
With just two points separating them on the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League table, this Sunday's feature match between Balcatta SC and the Northern Redbacks will go a long way to determining who will take out the title for 2010. The other games will see Queens Park host Bunbury Forum Force, Subiaco away to East Fremantle and Beckenham look to bounce back against UWA-Nedlands.
It's been a tough last month for Balcatta SC with the defending champions coming back to the chasing pack A loss, a draw and two tight wins have seen their lead at the top of the table eroded from 8 points to just 2 as injuries have finally taken their toll. Despite this, Lisa Tana's squad is still a formidable one. Golden Boot leaders Caitlin Dingle and Ashleigh Panaia have continued to score throughout the period while experienced midfielders Sarah Marek, Prue Cormie and Domenica Carbone have continued to feed plenty of ball to the strikers. A strength for so long, Balcatta's defence has conceded 7 goals in just three games and this weekend against an in-form attack, the usually reliable back five will need to be at the top of their game.
There is no denying that Tim Hodgson's Northern Redbacks are the in form team of the League. Including last night's Cup win, the Redbacks are unbeaten in 7 matches scoring an astounding 26 goals in those matches. It has a been a true team performance but forwards Carol Howes and Lara Filocamo and midfielders Sarah Carroll, Nicola Williams and Jayde Willis have been most prominent. However it has been the Jennifer Jobling and Rebecca Dudek led defence that needs to be applauded with Hodgson turning around last seasons weakness into the best performing defensive unit of the year. If they can hold up to the Balcatta onslaught, it can almost be assured that the attack will do the rest.
Balcatta have had the wood over the Northern Redbacks this year and in recent seasons. The last time they met in Round 12, a late goal saw Balcatta take all three points. This time the stakes are higher. The rewards for the winner of this encounter are tremendous as it places them in the box seat for the 2010 Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League title.
Queens Park will resume their battle with Bunbury Forum Force this weekend. The south-west team will go into the encounter full of confidence having defeated the Thunder for their only two wins this season. Taking into account their first finals berth, it would be a brave person to tip against the Force.
After being blitzed in the first half of their match against the Northern Redbacks, Tony Carvajal's East Fremantle will be happy with their second half response and go into this match favourites. While Subiaco do have players that could cause trouble for port side, the overall depth might be too much for Dan Evans' Lions.
The Beckenham Angels joined the long line of teams to fall victim to a currently untouchable Redbacks outfit. Although outclassed in the Cup semi final mid week, Leo Coppen's side were by no means embarrased. Keys to this match will how they bounce back mentally from a sapping defeat against the Redbacks and local rivals Queens Park last League round. UWA-Nedlands know exactly how the Angels feel with two big losses to the Redbacks in as many games but they will match up evenly against the Angels. The strikers output will the be key in this encounter. Both sides boast a good midfield but if Amber Roberts or Ailee Taggart can get on target for UWA-Nedlands or Jamie-Lee Gale, Elise Cunningham or Adelaide Knowles get on the scoreboard for the Angels, it will go a long way to deciding the result,
29.8.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 17 REVIEW
The race for the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League title is well and truly on with the Northern Redbacks joining Balcatta as the two top contenders. The Redbacks defeated East Fremantle while Balcatta were made to work to overcome Bunbury Forum Force to set up a potential title showdown next weekend. Queens Park looked to have sewn up fourth position with a win over Beckenham while UWA-Nedlands were only able to pick up a point courtesy of their draw with Subiaco.
Northern Redbacks v East Fremantle
A superb team performance from the Northern Redbacks has set up a 4 - 2 win over East Fremantle at Rickman Delawney. Sarah Carroll, Jayde Willis, Lara Filocamo and Nicola William's first half goals saw the home side lead 4 - 0 at the break before Katarina Jukic and Jessica Hunter pulled two back for the fighting visitors.
Katarina Jukic set the tone for the fixture when her first minute strike caused a moment of consternation for the Northern Redbacks goalkeeper Jennifer Jobling as she fumbled before eventually collecting the powerful strike. That positive start for East Fremantle was shattered three minutes later. At the end of her wing run, forward Lara Filocamo found Carol Howes at the top of the penalty area. The striker picked out Carroll at the back post with the winger burying the gift. The visitors responded quickly and a minutes later saw Jukic's touchline cut back struck by Jessica Hunter flush into the cross bar. Buoyed, East Fremantle had a spell of good possession with Renae Rendell in the centre providing plenty of ball to Hunter and Jukic. Against the run of play, the visitors were rocked again when midfielder Jayde Willis took an unexpected strike at goal from 20 yards leaving Morgan Cox stranded on her line.
Despite being 2 - 0 down, again East Fremantle attacked the Redbacks defence right from the restart. Winger Emily Murray's run and relay to the penalty area was met by Jukic but a well timed block from Amy Knights foiled the striker. A minute later Jukic's solo effort evaded a diving Jobling and the goalmouth by inches. Once again the home side punished them for those missed opportunities with arguably the team goal of the season so far. Using both flanks, Willis, Howes, Bennett and Filocamo moved the ball around the penalty area before Howes slipped a diagonal ball to Williams. Williams' back post cross was clinically dispatched by Filocamo to give them a commanding 3 - 0 lead. Williams added one of her own with half time approaching. After a one-two with her central midfielder partner Willis, her strike from 12 yards out slammed into the underside of the cross bar before rattling the net. Hunter had a chance to give the visitors hope just before the break when she was played in behind defender Rebecca Dudek but she couldn't keep her shot down.
The second half was hotly contested with the Redbacks looking to increase their lead while East Fremantle worked hard first to contain the damage and then to make inroads. Starting brightly, Murray continued to be an option with her wing runs but she was unable to find Hunter unmarked. The Redbacks created the first chance of the half with Carroll once again breaking on the right before Cox saved well with her legs. The visitors then had the run of play with Jukic first shooting wide and then Hunter was unable to finish a Casey Herbener initiated move. Reserves midfielder Koren Stanbridge was introduced into the game by Tony Carvajal and provided a real spark. East Fremantle and Katarina Jukic were eventually rewarded for their endeavour with the forward pegging one back in the 58th minute and when Hunter finally netted in the 86th minute the game took an edgy turn. However, Willis and Williams steadied the ship to see the Redbacks go into the midweek Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup semi-final and Sunday's blockbuster with Balcatta in red-hot form.
Beckenham Angels v Queens Park
A brace from midfielder Gemma Langley has seen Queens Park overcome local rivals the Beckenham Angels 4 -3 in a high scoring and entertaining encounter at Mills Park.
It was a tight opening 25 minutes with both side creating opening but neither able to take full advantage and on 25 minutes the game changed. A miss timed tackle on Stacey Learmont in the penalty area saw the referee pointing to the spot and Queens Park’s standout player for the season, Gemma Langley stepped up and easily converted the spot kick. Despite conceding, the Angels midfield worked to present a few opportunities and minutes later it looked like an equaliser was on the board. Forward Elise Cunningham looked to have headed home when she sweetly timed a corner. However, it was disallowed when the referee picked out a foul in the area against Beckenham leaving the home side 1- nil down at the break.
A minute after the restart, Queens Park extended their advantage when Ellis Glanfield let fly from 25 yards out into the top left hand corner to give her side a 2 – 0 lead in spectacular fashion. Five minutes later it was a case of déjà vu for the Angels side when Langley produced an identical strike from an identical distance with an identical result.
His side 3 – 0 down, coach Leo Coppens changed up his wingers Lizzie Courtley and Jamie-Lee Gale with instant results. After evading three defenders, Courtley initiated the fight back by lashing the ball in the top left hand corner. Three minutes later Gale was in the action when she was fouled within goal distance. Cunningham strode up to the ball and this time nothing was to deny her as her superbly taken swerving and travelling free kick brought the Angels to within one. Not long after, the home side were level. After some good midfield build up, Gale received the ball and her flighted cross picked out Adele Knowles who headed home. Proving the old adage true, Queens Park spoiled the party when they quickly regained the lead 40 seconds after the restart with the scores remaining that way at the final whistle.
Subiaco AFC v UWA-Nedlands
Subiaco AFC and UWA-Nedlands have played out a competitive but at times scrappy 2 - 2 draw at Rosalie Park. Midfielder Jen Chantler and defender Kitty Foley twice put Subiaco AFC ahead on the scoreboard but winger Jamie Blake pulled UWA-Nedlands back into the match on both occassions.
UWA-Nedlands started the match the brighter with a large share of possession with Blake on the left wing and Adele Gardiner centrally proving a real handful. Despite the lion’s share of the ball, it was the home side who took the lead with an in-swinging corner met by the well-timed run of Foley. The visitors hit back creating several chances with Blake’s one-on-one with the Lions’ ‘keeper ending in her ball skying over the cross bar and Amber Roberts’ strike rattling the crossbar and landing in behind Pidgeon before she quickly gathered. Eventually UWA-Nedlands did equalise when Nell Clayton put in a beautifully weighted back post cross where Blake was waiting and the winger brought the visitors deservedly level.
With Foley and her defence working overtime to hold out the visitors, the Lions soon hit on the counter with Jen Chantler taking advantage of a Flo Tawns’ speculative ball forward into a nest of players. With the ‘keeper and defenders hesitating a moment, it was the midfielder who reacted first to tuck it away. However it wasn’t long before the visitors again brought it square. Blake continued her player of the match performance for her side as she scored at the far post to keep it all locked up.
The second half was a scrappy battle of wills with neither side able to create chances with Subiaco almost claiming a goal when the UWA-Nedlands ‘keeper fumbled a ball on the goal line. Adele Gardiner was once again solid for the visitors in the midfield while Foley, Tawns and Meg Connop ensured that the Lions pushed for those three points. Both coaches had mixed feelings about the result.
“Today was one of those scrappy games but you get that,” said Subiaco coach Dan Evans. “At least we walk away with one point but I just felt that over the course of the game we might have had the better opportunities.”
“When both sides realised they were still in it, they really stepped up in trying to get that goal,” contemplated the opposition coach Conrad McKelvie. “We held pretty well but we just couldn’t open them up for that clear opportunity.”
Bunbury Forum Force v Balcatta SC
Balcatta SC were pushed all the way for their 4 - 1 victory over Bunbury Forum Force. Erin Walsh gave the ladder leaders a 2 - 0 half time lead before Casey Webb pulled one back for the home side forcing Prue Cormie and Caitlin Dingle to secure the points.
Walsh, last seasons leading scorer for Division 1, put her side in front in a great strike and just before the interval doubled the northern sides lead to give them a 2 – nil half time buffer. Bunbury Forum Force were not to be cowed however and after the break they pulled one back. Goal scoring machine Casey Webb proved again she is a real future prospect when she beat a couple of players before left footed lofted drive surprised Helen Carroll well off her line. The last twenty minutes were a real battle was the Force searched for an equaliser lead by Lisa Ward, Tash Rigby and Emma Young. The game was killed off in the 80th minute when midfielder Prue Cormie converted her own penalty. Dingle put the icing on the cake when she turned her marker and slammed the ball into the top right hand corner.
22.8.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE REVIEW: ROUND 16
The Smarter than Smoking Women’s League title race has opened up once again at the conclusion of Round 16 with East Fremantle defeating ladder leaders Balcatta SC convincingly in the match of the round. Title hopefuls the Northern Redbacks capitalised on the result with victory over UWA-Nedlands while Queens Park accounted for Subiaco AFC and the Beckenham Angels grabbed the points over Bunbury Forum Force.
BALCATTA v EAST FREMANTLE
With five rounds to go, East Fremantle have rejuvenated the title race as striker Jessica Hunter’s brace helped East Fremantle to a 4 – 2 over Balcatta SC at Grindleford Reserve.
Following on from their midweek win, the visitors started the game brightly with the midfield lead by Casey Herbener providing plenty of ball to forwards Hunter and Katarina Jukic. Ten minutes into the contest they had the lead when Jukic was played in behind the Balcatta defence. Hemmed in on the goal line, she worked her way passed two defenders before striking from an acute angle. Despite the hard work of Sarah Marek and Prue Cormie centrally, the home side were struggling to find rhythm and possession. However, lively young striker Ashleigh Panaia continued to cause problems for the East Fremantle back four and with half time looming, she help bring them level. Taking the ball on the left wing, Panaia cut past two defenders before unleashing at goal. East Fremantle goalkeeper Morgan Cox was only able to parry the ball away straight into the path of Caitlin Dingle. >From close range, Dingle easily converted the chance. The stalemate didn’t last for long with Nicole Ritchie putting in a brilliant right wing run and strike to put the port side back in front.
The second half saw much of the same from East Fremantle as the midfield continued to control the play. Hunter nabbed her first of the afternoon when she finished a sweeping attack. Not long after the game was finally sealed when the port side went 4 – 1 up. Fittingly, Heberner, Jukic and Renee Rendell all played a hand in the final goal as Hunter again tucked away a rebound ball. The reshuffled backline of Hughes, Keisler, Antonia Jukic and Miller made it difficult for Balcatta to breach all day with Hughes and Keisler in particular neutralising the threat of Dingle and Panaia. However, the home side did manage a consolation goal with Dingle extending her goal boot lead when she again reacted quickest in a goal line scramble.
QUEENS PARK v SUBIACO AFC
Queens Park’s Stacey Learmont has continued her sensational return to the Premier League has her four goals assisted the Thunder down Subiaco AFC 8 – 1 at Coker Park.
Subiaco started the contest well and in fact took the lead early on courtesy of a beautiful strike from State representative Rayne Henry. Unfortunately for Dan Evan’s side it went downhill from there. Gemma Langley continued to be influential in the middle of the park for the home side with a high percentage of the attacks funnelled through her. Despite the best efforts of midfielder Jen Chantler, goalkeeper Marissa Pidgeon, centre-back Megan Connop and her colleagues, the Lions found themselves 4 – 1 down at half time.
With the return of several key attacking players, Queens Park were at their clinical best with Monique Gordon, Lindsay Easton, Ellis Glanfield and Langley all contributing on the scoreboard as they gain a break on nearest Top 4 rivals. “They are a good side and we were under no illusions of that.” Subiaco coach Dan Evans stated. “I think we have progressed and I am happy with a lot of things. But obviously I am bitterly disappointed with the result.”
BUNBURY FORUM FORCE v BECKENHAM ANGELS
The Beckenham Angels have defeated Bunbury Forum Force 4 – 1 with the assistance of winger Jamie-Lee Gale’s brace. It was a highly competitive opening half hour with both sides probing early. However it was Beckenham that engineered the break though on 30 minutes when Lizzie Courtley opened the scoring. Five minutes before the interval, Gale doubled the advantage when she headed on Courtley’s cross to give them a 2 – 0 lead at the break.
On the resumption of play, Adelaide Knowles got in on the act. Gale initiated the move when her cross found Courtley at the back post. Courtley placed it back in the centre to Knowles who, after turning her player, guided it in the bottom left hand corner. The home side had their periods of dominance where they controlled possession and play. In one such period they were able to play the ball around and attacked via the right wing with the result being Casey Webb scoring. Late in the game the Angels put the result beyond doubt. Courtley’s cross/shot forced Bunbury goalkeeper Sara King to tip it onto the crossbar with Gale tapping in the rebounded ball.
Beckenham coach Leo Coppens was pleased with the result. “It was a good, consistent solid performance,” Coppens said. “There are a few little areas we need to work on but a 4 – 1 win away from home, we will take that any day of the week.”
UWA-NEDLANDS v NORTHERN REDBACKS
The Northern Redbacks continued their rich run of form as they took care of UWA-Nedlands 6 – 1. Captain Nicola Williams put in her best goal scoring performance of the season with a hattrick while regular scorers Sarah Carroll and Carol Howes also pitched in. The win is vital for the Northern Redbacks as they host East Fremantle in a key match to shape the title race.
20.8.2010
WOMEN’S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 16 PREVIEW
After the closest round in weeks, Round 16 puts up further enticing encounters with the feature match seeing Balcatta look to avenge an early season home loss to East Fremantle; Queens Park and Subiaco are looking to get their first wins in weeks; UWA-Nedlands will be wanting to put a disappointing loss behind them when they host the Northern Redbacks and the Beckenham Angels are looking to continue their recent form when they tackle Bunbury Forum Force away from home.
Balcatta SC v east Fremantle: feature match
Injuries have played havoc with Balcatta's 2010 season, with the last month seeing the defending champions have to dig deep for wins over the Beckenham Angels, the Northern Redbacks and fight to hold off a fast finishing Queens Park for a draw. Up front they haven't missed a beat with Caitlin Dingle, Ashleigh Panaia and Sarah Marek helping to net 12 goals in four games. However, Lisa Tana's side has weathered the storm thanks to big defensive efforts from Helen Carroll and the back four of Bushby, Kenyon, Williams and Coghlan and this weekend they will again need to be solid against a quick opponent. Squad disruptions for various reasons have seen last year’s runners up East Fremantle have an inconsistent 2010. Big wins over Balcatta early in the season have made way to big losses including the Cup quarter final exit two weeks ago. However, the grinding 1 - 0 win over UWA-Nedlands last week may just have been the turning point for Tony Carvajal's side. Despite the upheaval, it shouldn't be forgotten that East Fremantle still have the second best defence and attack in the league. Goalkeeper Morgan Cox has marshalled a quick and well-organised defensive unit while Jessica Hunter, Casey Herbener and Sarah Hughes have shouldered the goal scoring burden. With the return of the Jukic sisters, the port side look better balanced and well set to take on the toughest task in the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League.
Queens Park v Subiaco AFC
Queens Park worked hard last week against an in form Northern Redbacks. However, without several key attacking options Thunder were destined to struggle against another Top 4 side which, despite the 1 - 0 scoreline, they did. If the missing trio return, Queens Park will have several avenues to goal that might trouble the young Subiaco side. Subiaco on the other hand has battled well in 2010 and last week was no exception. Although drawing 1 – 1 there was some dissatisfaction with the result considering they had taken a deserved 1 – 0 lead. The northern side will be looking for a strong defensive effort and goals from forwards Rosie Cocker and Brittany Dyer-Smith. The home side will go in warm favourites but their should be no surprise if Dan Evans' side gets something out of this encounter.
UWA-Nedlands FC v Northern Redbacks
UWA-Nedlands would be disappointed with their 1 - 0 loss last weekend. In the match against East Fremantle they would have fancied themselves and all that was missing for Uni was that final ball to forwards Graskowski, Roberts and Taggert. Nell Clayton, Vanessa Sakalidis and Adele Gardiner were dynamic in the centre of the park and as they take on the Redbacks, they will need to be strong once more. The Northern Redbacks on the other hand were engaged in a game of patience against Queens Park which, to the relief of Tim Hodgson, they won. Possession won’t be a problem for with Jayde Willis and her midfield compatriots having plenty of the ball. However, against an opponent that plays a similar brand of football, can they give Carol Howes and co enough supply to defeat a good defence?
Bunbury Forum Force v Beckeham Angels
Bunbury Forum Force have been impressive in the latter end of this season but that was always going to be the case as the south-west side worked their way into the League. Despite the draw with the Lions, John O'Gorman's side would be unhappy at conceded first. Casey Webb and Carissa Wright have provided the bulk of the goals in 2010. Yet it has been Lisa Ward and her midfield that have been impressive and will again need to be good in attack and defence against a very confident Beckenham. It’s been a great couple of weeks for the Angels first knocking out East Fremantle in the Cup before almost taking points off Balcatta last weekend in the League. Leo Coppen’s side is full of confidence, speed and in Adelaide Knowles a striker who can take advantage of the work of a good midfield. All this has been powered by the core group of midfielders including Lizzie Courtley, Claire Wragg and Jamie-Lee Gale just to name a few. However, the Angels have been impressive defensively in the last couple of weeks and it is no coincidence that the results have turned around.
15.8.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 15 REVIEW
Round 15 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier displayed just how close the League has become with the winning margins no greater than the one goal. Balcatta were given a scare before eventually prevailing, the Northern Redbacks took close to 90 minutes to breakdown their opponents while a solitary goal helped East Fremantle to victory and Subiaco and Bunbury Forum Force shared the honours.
UWA-Nedlands FC v East Fremantle
A brilliant individual effort from East Fremantle’s Casey Herbener was the difference as East Fremantle defeated UWA-Nedlands 1 – 0 away from home. In a typical encounter between these two sides, the defences held sway. However chances did come about with UWA-Nedlands’ Nell Clayton causing a good save from Morgan Cox. East Fremantle’s Katarina Jukic and Jessica Hunter linked up well and minutes later that combination ended with Hunter’s quick thinking lofted ball almost finding Linda Kavamburq off her line. Ten minutes later Hunter returned the service when she released Jukic into some space but the backtracking and hassling of Lara Jones and Lorian Woolgav saw her shot trickle wide.
The second half was much of the same with the narrow pitch ensuring that the midfield battle would be key. Adele Gardiner sent an early scare through the visitor’s camp when she cut in behind Annique Keisler and Cox was forced to put in another good effort to deny her stinging strike at goal. Hard midfield work bought the home side another opening not long after when Ailee Taggart gained a little advantage, but pressure from East Fremantle’s Anna Sweetingham saw her unable to get any power on the strike.
After those early scares, the port side slowly gained dominance of in the centre with Renee Rendell’s switch to the right instrumental as she provided pace and drive down that flank. Ines Salgado’s move centrally allowed Herbener free roam up the park and that proved fruitful in the 70th minute when her goal line run and cross/strike floated over Kavamburq’s head and rebounded off the back post for a goal. Although midfielders Gardiner, Vanessa Sakalidis and Nell Clayton worked hard to get UWA-Nedlands back into the match, they were unable to find Amber Roberts, Stephanie Graskowski or Ailee Taggart in enough space to trouble the East Fremantle defence.
Beckenham Angels v Balcatta SC
In a pulsating match, ladder leaders Balcatta SC have had to dip deep to find a late winner as they overran the Beckenham Angels 3 – 2 at Mills Park. Considering recent encounters, the Angels’ shocked the visitors when they opened the scoring in the 13th minute. After picking up the ball in the midfield Claire Wragg worked her way to the edge of the box and placed her strike in off the post into the bottom left hand corner. In true Balcatta style, five minutes they were back on level pegging when a defensive mix up allowed Ashleigh Panaia to nip in and tuck the ball away. Unfortunately for the home side, ten minutes later the visitors hit the front. A fluid movement of passes from the middle, out wide and back through the penalty area ended with midfielder Sarah Marek giving her side the lead. Not to be out done and with their new found confidence pushing them, the Angels drew level ten minutes before the break. Winning the ball in midfield, Jamie-Lee Gale played in striker Adelaide Knowles who eventually found Lizzie Courtley. Courtley cut inside and left Helen Carroll stranded with a sensational curling strike into the top right hand corner.
After a highly entertaining display of football from both sides in the first half, the second stanza was a battle of wills with neither side giving much space or time. Seven minutes from the whistle, the defending champions continued their tradition of late winners, when Chelsea Evans got loose down the right flank and from 10 yards out slotted it under the advancing Kristy Teschinsky. Even that late in the proceedings, the Angels weren’t without their chances to equalise with two late corners. The first saw Wragg blast a strike towards goal only to see it cleared off the line for another corner and that corner landed at the feet of Sarah Vansnick but she was unable to capitalise. Leo Coppens was disappointed with the result but proud of his side’s efforts. “We just didn’t have the numbers and the legs to continue running in the end.” he said. “All kudos to Balcatta for coming back when we opened the scoring and it shows they are a good team for a reason. However in the end it was a little bit of class at the end and a little bit of finishing. They finished a better and we had our chances and didn’t.”
Northern Redbacks v Queens Park
Winger Sarah Carroll’s late goal has seen the Northern Redbacks overcome Queens Park 1- 0 with their third win on the trot. With three key players missing from a weakened Queens Park line-up, it was always going to be a tough ask and the Redbacks benefited. The northern side dominated possession wise with Jayde Willis slotting back into the side with significant impact and defenders Lyndsey Valentine and Emily Dunn ensured that Queens Park were unable to hit on the counter. “We knew what was going to be thrown at us and it just a case of us working to breakdown their defence. That was the game plan.” reflected Tim Hodgson. “Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. It looked like it might be one of those games that slipped away from us but fortunately we bobbed up and got it in the end.”
Subiaco AFC v Bunbury Forum Force
Bunbury Forum Force’s Casey Webb’s second half goal has cancelled out Brittany Dyer-Smith’s effort to see Subiaco and Bunbury share the points for the second time this season. Subiaco had the better of the opening minutes with the home side controlling the first 10 – 15. Yet as they have all season, Bunbury Forum Force fought back well but just before the half time interval they found themselves down 1 – 0 courtesy of Dyer-Smith.
On the restart, the visitors came out firing and controlled proceedings with their ball movement, strong midfield play and physicality. The physical nature of the match saw several cards shown and the game swung in favour of the Force partway through the half when a Gabby Walker-Ortega was shown a straight red for retaliation. With the numbers, the Force took full advantage when Webb brought them level. “I am really disappointed because I felt we deserved more but what I couldn’t fault was that the girls worked extremely hard for 90 minutes.” said Subiaco coach Dan Evans. “I am happy with that but possibly discipline cost us and we lost two points today.”
8.8.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 14 REVIEW
In a fiercely contested Round 14 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's League, Balcatta SC returned to the winners circle, East Fremantle picked up valuable away points while Queens Park and UWA-Nedlands could not be separated and the Northern Redbacks were forced to dig deep for their points.
BECKENHAM ANGELS v NORTHERN REDBACKS
Goals from Carla Bennett, Shawn Billam and Nicola Williams have seen the Northern Redbacks come from behind to defeat the Beckenham Angel 3 - 1 in hard fought encounter at Mills Park.
The opening 20 minutes were hotly contested by both sides but it was the visitors who were to fashion the first clear chance of the game. In form striker Carol Howes turned provider for her captain Nicola Williams but Williams' strike was quickly smothered by the on rushing Kristy Teschinsky. Teschinsky foiled another effort ten minutes later when a one-two between Williams and Sarah Carroll saw the latter into space but again she was quickly closed down by the Angels custodian. Beckenham's first sight of goal very nearly produced the intended result. After a wing run, Claire Wragg played in Lizzie Courtley whose ball to the back post fell to Adelaide Knowles. The striker laid off to Kirby Larsen but her shot from distance sailed inches over the crossbar and fittingly the sides went in level at half time.
The second half started much like the first with the midfield battles between the Angels' Cassie Moore, Courtley and Wragg and the Redbacks' Carroll, Rebecca Dudek and Carla Bennett a real feature. 20 minutes into the half the stalemate was broken and Wragg was the eventual provider when her ball found the feet of Knowles. The Angels' top scorer turned inside her markers and placed an exquisite lob over the head of the advancing Jennifer Jobling to the delight of the home crowd. The Redbacks eventually pulled level after a tight tussle as Nicola Williams, whose influence on the match had been quelled by Sarah Vansnick, put through Bennett and from 18 yards out the midfielder slammed her shot into the underside of the crossbar and over the line for a memorable equaliser. Minutes after the Redbacks had the lead when Williams was granted a free kick and Shawn Billam took full advantage as she curled the ball into the top right hand corner from 20 yards out.
Leo Coppen's side looked to regroup quickly and Knowles went close to replying seconds after the restart as she ran onto Danielle Jeans' ball, cut inside only to see her strike blocked by a desperate Redbacks defence. Knowles had another chance to draw her side level when she met Courtley's in swinging corner but her first strike was palmed away by Jobling and the rebound ball was cleared off the line. After absorbing the pressure, Tim Hodgson's side killed off the encounter with three minutes left on the clock. A swift counter started by Bennett and Howes ended with Nicola Williams slip in behind the Angels' defence and with only Teschinsky to beat, the captain slotted it home for a hard fought win. "I never doubted my girls." said Redbacks coach Tim Hodgson. "The way we play we should always come back and we have started to make a habit of it."
QUEENS PARK v UWA-NEDLANDS
Top 4 rivals Queens Park and UWA-Nedlands have played out an entertaining 1 - 1 draw at Coker Park. Queens Park went into the match without several of the key players who were instrumental in their 2 - 2 draw with Balcatta last weekend. Despite that Lindsay Easton and Stacey Learmont were still more than a handful for Linda Kavamburq and her defence. However, it was the visitors who were rewarded early in the second half for their hard running and expansive football when full back Lorian Woolgav played in Amber Roberts behind the Thunder backline. In space, the striker had no problem putting her side in front. Queens Park looked to hit back quickly through Learmont but she was foiled time and again by the quick reactions of Kavamburq with the two involved in several heavy collisions. The last collision resulted in Kavamburq leaving the field and minutes later Learmont was in on goal and tucking away the equaliser. The finals minutes were frantic and physical but neither side was able to find the winner.
In other matches, Balcatta SC remain on top of the league after a convincing 4 - 0 win over Subiaco AFC. Rattled after clinging on for a point against Queens Park and being knocked out of the Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup midweek, the title favourites looked to be back on track. East Fremantle were too strong for Bunbury Forum Force at Hay Park as they ran out 4 - 1 winners. The win came at a cost with the returning Katarina Jukic requiring stitches after a bruising encounter.
6.8.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: ROUND 14
It's a true north v south battle in this week's Smarter than Smoking Women's League Feature Match with the Beckenham Angels hosting the Northern Redbacks while in other matches Bunbury Forum Force host East Fremantle, Queens Park and UWA-Nedlands battle it out for fourth position and Subiaco host Balcatta at home.
The Northern Redback bounced back from a disappointing late defeat at the hands of Balcatta to comfortably take care of Subiaco AFC last weekend. The true shining lights for 2010 in midfielder turned striker Carol Howes and impressive winger Sarah Carroll continue to shine in 2010 with their goals the difference. Although not as prolific in front of goals as in other years, it has been a more consistent defensive effort that has kept them in the title race. Leigh Kelly, Amy Knights, Lyndsey Valentine, Rebecca Dudek and Shawn Billam, just to name a few, have all been part of a stellar unit that has conceded the lowest number of goals alongside Balcatta. They will need to be solid again faced with an Angels strike force that could pose problems. In a rollercoaster season, the Beckenham Angels looked to be back on a more level ride as they got on track with a 1 - 1 draw with UWA-Nedlands. Leo Coppens is back at the helm of the southern club allowing captain Danielle Jeans to return to what she does best and the team is the better for it. The big surprise packet has been forward Adelaide Knowles who has taken up the reigns as their premier striker with several important goals including Round 12's equaliser. Midfielders Lizzie Courtley, Clare Wragg and Jamie-Lee Gale have proved to be a handful for many teams and against the Redbacks they will need to assert themselves and assist Knowles up front. The last time they met the Redbacks got the better of the Angels with a 3 - 0 victory at their home ground. However, considering the tight contest that ensued the last time they met on the Angels patch, this match is far from all sewn up.
East Fremantle make the trip down to Bunbury to take on a resurgent Bunbury Forum Force. The newcomers to the premier league seem to have found their feet with recent good results in the League and a semi final berth confirmed in the Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup. Carissa Wright and Casey Webb have been the catalyst with their goals ensuring that the Force remain more than competitive. They will need to be on song again when the face one of the best defences in the League. East Fremantle on the other hand have an up and down last couple of weeks but victory last start see the port side still with an outside chance in the League running but a win this weekend is crucial. Sisters Antonia and Katarina Jukic return to a side that boasts Casey Herbener, Sarah Hughes and striker Jessica Hunter. Their tough defence and midfield will need to hold sway but it will be goals from those sources that will be important.
It's been a challenging couple of weeks for the current league champions and title favourites. First they had to fight hard to pull a win over locals the Northern Redbacks, then they were forced to hang tough against a determined Queens Park to gain a draw in the League and finally they were bundled out of the Cup on Wednesday in heartbreaking fashion. Despite all that Lisa Tana's side will need to pick up the pieces and go again as the title race is far from over. The young Subiaco side can be proud of their efforts this season and last week again they pushed the Northern Redbacks all the way before going down. The Lions have some genuinely talented players including Jen Chantler, Gabby Walker-Ortega, Brittany Dyer-Smith and Rosie Cocker. While they have been good in the midfield, it is goals that much needed by the Lions and if they are to perform one of the big upsets of the season they will need that and a little bit of luck.
A draw last weekend looks to have revived Queens Park's season but they are still on the edge of dropping out of the Top 4 and this weekend they take on their rival for that position UWA-Nedlands. Stacey Learmont may be out of action with a what looked to be a slight strain as she sparked her sides comeback and that would be a big close considering her great partnership with Ellis Glanfield. Captains and midfield generals Gemma Langley and Nikki Campbell continue their good work as they set up the strikers time and again. UWA-Nedlands have played some the best football in season 2010 but that has not always translated into wins. Conrad McKelvie's side has had a great year defensively and with a fluid midfield they have tested many sides this season. Like many other teams, goals have been a big issue and against Queens Park the strike force of Ailee Taggart, Amber Roberts and Stephanie Graskoski's will need to have their radars well tuned.
1.8.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 13 REVIEW
Queens Park continued their Jekyll and Hyde season with a gutsy come from behind draw with ladder leaders Balcatta while the Northern Redbacks kept the pressure on with a comfortable win over Subiaco AFC in Round 13 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League.
Balcatta v Queens Park
A sensational last 30 minutes and two late goals from Stacey Learmont and Ellis Glanfield has seen Queens Park pick up a point from their away encounter with Balcatta.
After going down to Bunbury Forum Force last week, Queens Park were looking for an improved performance with the toughest assignment in the League. With this in mind Steve Woodfin’s side started well with Learmont, Lindsay Easton and Glanfield all lively up front and well supplied by captains Gemma Langley and Nikki Campbell.
Despite the good spell they were unable to create scoreboard pressure and the home side worked their way into the match. Injuries have forced a new look line up for Balcatta but with Sarah Marek still controlling proceedings Caitlin Dingle and Ashleigh Panaia were given plenty of quality ball. The first goal came five minutes from the break through the unlikely source of Katy Coghlan with the full back producing a stunning in swinging 20 yard strike into the top left corner of Maya Diederichsen’s goal.
With the momentum Balcatta come out of the blocks faster in the second half with current golden boot leader Caitlin Dingle extending her lead with a nice solo effort. Taking the ball at her feet, Dingle turned her marker before placing it in the bottom right corner of the goals. Two goals down Queens Park renewed their attack with Glanfield and Learmont the sparks. The visitors had a golden opportunity to peg one back when Nikki Campbell robbed her midfield opponent, played in to Learmont whose quick release put Glanfield into space. With just Balcatta goalkeeper Helen Carroll to beat, Carroll made a fine double save blocking the first strike with her feet before pressuring the second shot just wide.
The pressure finally told in the 73rd minute when Learmont was played into space and this time she was able to lob a stranded Carroll. Two minutes later they were level with Langley laying off to Glanfield with her 20 yard strike drifting into the net to the delight of the Thunder supporters. Both sides had opportunities late to take all three points; first Dingle almost re-created her first goal as she cut inside and struck forcing Diederichsen to parry away and then Glanfield released Monique Gordon only for Carroll to come out early and produce enough pressure to see Gordon push her strike inches wide.
Northern Redbacks v Subiaco AFC
The Northern Redbacks were on song with Carol Howes and Sarah Carroll goals in either half giving the home side a comfortable 2 – 0 win over Subiaco AFC. While both sides shared possession throughout the first half, it was the Redbacks who were able to get deep in the Subiaco half with plenty of shots on goal including a missed penalty. Howes eventually claimed the first goal in the 40th minute as she added to her season tally and gave her team a 1 – 0 half time lead.
The Redbacks started the second half they way they finished the first with Shawn Billam laying off to Carla Bennett but the midfielder was unable to keep her strike down. Good defensive hassling and covering by Brooke Tillemans and Kitty Foley made life difficult for the Redbacks forwards as they ensured there were no easy shots on goal. Subiaco had a rare opportunity to get back in the match when Gabby Walker-Ortega’s nicely floated corner found Kristin Hulvey’s head at the back post but she was unable to keep it down. Billam, Howes, Bennett and Carroll were proving a handful for the Lions’ defence with that combination creating up openings time and again but to the credit of Subiaco they continued to pressure the shot taker. Subiaco weren’t without their moments and Cath Nelson, Brittany Dyer Smith and Meg Connop provided good run in the midfield. However, they were unable to find that final pass to put Rosie Cocker in space especially with Redbacks’ Leigh Kelly proving instrumental in sweeping and placing pressure on the ball carriers. The match was finally killed off in the 90th minute when a quick goal kick from Jennifer Jobling found Howes who played in Carroll on the wing. Cutting inside the state represenative struck early into the feet of Marrisa Pidgeon before following up and closing out the match.
In other news Casey Webb has taken Bunbury Forum Force in the semi-finals of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Cup as the premier side defeated UWA-Nedlands Reserves 1 – 0. Bunbury will have to wait until the other three games are played this Wednesday before they can find out their possible opponents.
25.7.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 12 REVIEW
Round 12 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League has seen Balcatta extend their lead at the top of the table with a hard fought win over neighbours the Northern Redbacks, East Fremantle snapped their losing streak, Beckenham shared the points with UWA-Nedlands at home and Bunbury Forum Force picked up their second win of the season.
Northern Redbacks v Balcatta SC
A last minute penalty has seen Balcatta SC all but wrap up the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League with a 3 – 2 win over the Northern Redbacks at Rickman Delawney Reserve.
As expected it was a pulsating match between these two protagonists with end-to-end football the order of the day. Unlike their last clash, Balcatta started the better as Sarah Marek took advantage of a rebounded ball to put the visitors ahead. This sparked the Redbacks into action and the equaliser came not long after with forward Carol Howes replying almost instantaneously. Tense and pressure football ensued before the Redbacks were punished for not closing down around the penalty area with Ashleigh Panaia’s strike finding the back of the net. Once again Howes’ replied for the home side to bring the sides level and setting up an enthralling second half.
The Northern Redbacks continued their trend of strong second halves as they controlled the play through captain Nicola Williams. However Tim Hodgson’s side would rue their missed chances including two opens goals with the first placed over the bar and the second into the bar. Balcatta were given an opportunity to clinch the match with a corner in the final minutes. Beautifully taken, the ball was driven into the back post with Nicola Williams’ deemed to have handled the ball earning her a red card and the visitors a penalty. Caitlin Dingle added to her season tally as she completed the penalty and the win for Balcatta. Nine points ahead of their nearest rivals, victory has placed Balcatta in a commanding position to defend their 2009 title. “We went in there knowing that for us to give ourselves a chance that we didn’t want anything short of a win but we just came up short.” said a philosophical Tim Hodgson. “We did a enough to win I thought but that’s the way it goes.”
Bunbury Forum Force v Queens Park
Bunbury Forum Force have continued their ascendency over Queens Park Thunder courtesy of a hard fought 2 – 1 victory at Hay Park.
The Force got off to the perfect start with in form striker Carrisa Wright opening the scoring with her stunning long range effort glancing off the underside of the bar before rattling the net. However, the visitors were able to fashion an equaliser 10 minutes before the half time interval. A blistering run and cross down the wing set up Stacey Learmont one-on-one with Force goalkeeper Sara King and, despite King’s best efforts, Learmont had little trouble bringing her side level.
All square, it was an evenly poised second half with the midfield battle a feature. Eventually Casey Webb, not to be outdone by her strike partner, sealed the game with a superb distance strike thundering into the top right corner. “The most important thing from our point today as we were a lot more consistent and very supportive of each other.” said a satisfied Sara King. “We still had some little errors but they didn’t cost us as they have done in the past. That was quite pleasing.” The win, a first home victory for the Force, sees Bunbury Forum Force edge closer to climbing off the bottom, while for Queens Park, they keep other teams in the race for a Top 4 place.
Subiaco AFC v East Fremantle
A brace from East Fremantle’s Sylvia Flynn has seen the port side jump back into the winners’ circle as they defeated an undermanned Subiaco AFC 3 – 0 at Rosalie Park.
Both sides came into the contest under strength with East Fremantle still missing several key players including striker Jessica Hunter with illness while unforseen circumstances saw three key Lions’ players unavailable. Despite that it was a willing contest with both sides comfortable on the ball. However, the visitor’s had a majority of the possession and they made the inevitable breakthrough with forward Sylvia Flynn’s well guided strike taking a deflection past the stand in Lions’ goalkeeper. Flynn popped up for the second goal before midfielder Casey Herbener was rewarded for her midfield dominance with a third goal.
The East Fremantle young brigade put in a strong performance, in particular winger Emily Murray and full back Annique Keisler impressing in their respective positions. Led by the hard working Sonja Felderhof, the home side had good spells with the ball but were unable to convert those patches into goal scoring opportunities. The Subiaco defensive unit were unrelenting and with a lot of ball coming into their half, defender Jen Magdalenich, in her final game before returning home to Canada, was a stand out. However, in his first game in charge after an absence, East Fremantle coach Tony Carvajal was pleased with the hit out. “Every body did their job today.” he said, “We just had a little too much quality for Subiaco today who, to their credit, never gave up.”
Beckenham Angels v UWA-Nedlands FC
The Beckenham Angels’ Adelaide Knowles has cancelled out UWA-Nedlands’ Stephanie Graskoski’s first half goal to see both sides take a point from the contest in a very even and entertaining 1 – 1 draw.
After a disappointing loss to local rivals last week, the Beckenham Angels started this encounter positively and pressed the UWA-Nedlands’ side early. However it was UWA-Nedlands, missing a couple of first team regulars, who troubled the scoreboard first. A defensive lapse allowed the ball to bounce in the penalty area with the on rushing Stephanie Graskoski judging the bounce better, stepping past the Angels’ central defender and tucking it home. Up on the scoreboard, the visitors took advantage of this as they poured on the pressure late in the half although the Angels managed to contain the damage to one.
Behind on the ledger, the Angels pressed for the equaliser early in the second half as they came out fired up. Jamie Lee Gale and Lizzie Courtley proved to be a handful as they carved out chances but UWA-Nedlands held steady creating their own openings including what appeared to be a routine tap in that was well saved by the Beckenham goalkeeper Kristy Teschinsky. With the game opening up, the Angels finally pulled level as Adelaide Knowles powered home a header of Courtley’s wing cross. In the continued spirit of the entertaining fixture both sides went looking for the equaliser. UWA-Nedlands had three or four half chances while Gale produced a stunning save from UWA-Nedlands’ Linda Kavamburq as she guided a strike into the top right corner forcing Kavamburq to tip it around the goalpost.
18.7.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 11 REVIEW
Round 11 saw the Northern Redbacks close the gap on Balcatta courtesy of victory over East Fremantle, Queens Park continued their midseason revival as they overran local neighbours Beckenham and Subiaco AFC equalised to share the points with UWA-Nedlands.
East Fremantle v Northern Redbacks
A dominant second half performance from Tim Hodgson’s Northern Redbacks has seen them defeat East Fremantle 3 – 0 at Wauhop Park. With only one point separating the two sides, this was a battle for second position and the tight and entertaining opening 45 was indicative of the high stakes. Both sides poured on the pressure with East Fremantle striker Jessica Hunter and Northern Redbacks striker Lara Filocamo given little room to move. For the home side Casey Herberner and Sylvia Flynn were lively in the midfield while Nicola Williams squandered the best chance of the half just before the interval.
The second half saw the visitors come out fired up and they dominated play through Shawn Billiam and midfielders Jayde Willis and Sarah Carroll. Carroll’s run caused havoc for the East Fremantle defence and she was eventually brought down in the 61st minute only to see her penalty brilliantly saved by East Fremantle goalkeeper Morgan Cox. The home side looked to break on the counter with Ines Salgado, Ashlyn Miller and Herbener supplying Hunter but an organised Redbacks unit overwhelmed her. The pressure finally told in the 82nd minute with Billiam getting the breakthrough before late goals from Carol Howes and Lara Filocamo ended the contest.
Queens Park v Beckenham Angels
Queens Park Thunder has continued their mid-season revival with a strong 3 – 1 win over the Beckenham Angels. The last time the two sides met was in the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Cup with the visitors recording their first victory over Queens Park. However, this weekend it was a vastly different Queens Park that took the field as they overwhelmed the visitors. Goals to the returning Stacey Woodfin and forwards Ellis Glanfield and Monique Gordon were enough to see the home side over the line. Although the Angels had progressed in the Cup with a mid-week Cup, Beckenham struggled to get into the contest despite the best efforts of Sarah Van Snick, Claire Wragg and goalscorer Adelaide Knowles. The win sees Queens Park remain in fourth position as they look to close the gap on the ladder leaders. Meanwhile Beckenham remain in seventh position ahead of a challenging run of matches.
UWA-Nedlands v Subiaco AFC
UWA-Nedlands and Subiaco AFC have played out a 1 – 1 draw at McGillivray Oval. The home side got the scoring underway when UWA-Nedlands were awarded a penalty after a handball shout and forward Sara Gunnarson duly dispatched it. However, Subiaco, who put in a noticeably better performance, were not to be denied and equalised through midfielder Brittany Dyer-Smith.
* Balcatta v Bunbury Forum Force has been postponed
11.7.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 10 REVIEW
At the conclusion of Round 10 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's League, Balcatta SC avenge their Round 2 loss to East Fremantle, the Beckenham Angels pip Bunbury Forum Force to the points and Queens Park continue their strong record over Subiaco AFC.
Balcatta SC have firmed as clear title favourites as they maintained their top billing with a 2 - 1 win over East Fremantle. In gusty and at times torrential conditions, the two sides toiled hard in the tense opening minutes however it was the home side who troubled the scoreboard first. East Fremantle forward Sylvia Flynn made the most of the wind with her strike 20 minutes into the contest causing the usually reliable Helen Carroll to fumble the ball over the goal line. It was the wake up call the visitors needed at they hit back hard with two goals from Caitlin Dingle and Ashleigh Panaia in three minutes and, although East Fremantle pressed continually, that was how it stayed. Despite the win, the downside for Balcatta was defender Katy Coghlan going down late in the match, adding to the ladder leaders considerably long list injury list.
The Beckenham Angels recorded their second victory of the 2010 season with a 3 - 2 win over Bunbury Forum Force. The Angels, under caretaker coach Danielle Jeans, were finally able to capitalise on their strong midfield with Elise Cunningham, Kirby Larsen and the returning Jamie-Lee Gale all getting on the scoresheet. For the Force it was another strong performance with regular goal scoring duo Carrisa Wright and Casey Webb doing the damage.
After a two week break Queens Park have returned to Premier League action with a resounding 4 - 0 away victory over Subiaco AFC. In typical Queens Park fashion, Steve Woodfin's side were too strong and experienced for the young Lions outfit with Gemma Langley, Monique Gordon, Nikki Campbell and Clare Dunn all netting for the Thunder. An important confidence booster, the win also sees Queens Park leapfrog UWA-Nedlands into fourth position.
9.7.2010
2010 NATIONAL YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR GIRLS
The Western Australian U15 side has completed their four matches of National Youth Championships win an 0 - 4 record. Despite going winless, the U15 sides can be proud of their efforts with several narrow losses to traditional powerhouse states. Several Women's Premier League players were instrumental for the side including Northern Redbacks duo Thia Eastman and Sarah Carroll, Tia Stonehill and Nalina Valaydon. In attack the U15s side proved impressive with luck deserting them in front of goals. However, Tanya Oxtoby's side will be rueing the concession of early goals in their matches which often left them chasing the game.
Under 15 MATCHES: Football West 1 (T.Stonehill 25’) v NSW Metro 3; Queensland 2 v Football West 1 (S.Carroll 11’); Football West 0 v Northern NSW 4; Football West 0 v NSW Country 0
Nicola Williams' Under 17s side also completed their four matches without a win in a very tight U17s competition. WA would be disappointed with their results, there were plenty of their performances against teams packed full of Young Matildas and Westfield W-League players. WAIS scholarship holder and one of WA's leading stars Jaymee Gibbons displayed why she will be a name to watch as she ably lead the WA side as clearly the Sandgroper's best. Glory defender and Australian Schoolgirls representative Sadie Lawrence also had a good tournament alongside Beckenham Angels' Jamie-Lee Gale but in the end it was the slicker states that just got by WA.
Under 17 MATCHES: South Australia 2 v Football West 1 (L.Riley 36’); NSW Metro 2 v Football West 0; Football West 1 v Queensland 2; Northern NSW 1 v Football West 0
9.7.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE: ROUND 10 PREVIEW
Round 10 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League will see a true clash of the titans with the second-placed East Fremantle taking on table toppers Balcatta at Wauhop Park. Meanwhile in other fixtures Subiaco will look to take out Queens Park, the Beckenham Angels search for their next win against Bunbury Forum Force and UWA-Nedlands look to continue their good form against the Northern Redbacks
Up until their shock loss to UWA-Nedlands last weekend, East Fremantle had been the only side in the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League yet to taste defeat. Meanwhile, with 11 goals in two games, Balcatta has just started to shift gears as it moves into the crunch part of the season. Both sides have impressive engine rooms with the mature heads of Prue Cormie and Sarah Marek leading Balcatta against East Fremantle youngsters Casey Herbener and Emma Ylias. With the midfield proving key, one of the clashes to watch will be the wing battle between East Fremantle's Sarah Hughes and Domenica Carbone with both players vital to their side’s attacks. However, with both teams possessing the two highest scoring forward lines in the League, this top-of-the-table encounter will be won and lost in defence. This was the case the last time they met in Round 2 with East Fremantle absorbing a first half tsunami of attack before Jessica Hunter's 49th minute goal proved the difference. A true six-point fixture, it’s sure to be high octane football this Sunday.
The sixth placed Subiaco AFC hosts the fifth placed Queens Park at Rosalie Park. The Lions came from behind last weekend to snatch a draw with Bunbury Forum Force and will be looking to build on that result this week. For Queens Park it is their first outing since a much need win over UWA-Nedlands close to three weeks ago. Subiaco have been competitive all season and they will be wanting to atone for a 5 - 0 loss in Round 2. Meanwhile the Thunder are looking to build some momentum as they look to turn their season around. Defence will be the key to this encounter as neither side boasts a good record in 2010.
The Beckenham Angels and Bunbury Forum Force will be searching for their second wins of the season when they do battle this Sunday. The Angels were unlucky last weekend as they came up against a clinical and fired up Caitlin Dingle. Despite the loss captain/coach Danielle Jeans was pleased with the endeavour defensively with small lapses costing them big. Attacking wise the Angels see the return of winger/forward Jamie-Lee Gale from the National Youth Championships for Girls. Bunbury Forum Force would be furious that they let a 2 - 0 goal half time lead slip. However, considering they had the bare 11 on the pitch, John O'Gorman's side can be forgive for running out of steam late. There have been very good signs for the Force of late with their midfield and forward line starting to click and score regularly. To help in that regard striker Kim McCartney also returns from the Championships. This should be a good encounter between to up and coming young sides.
The final match sees two in form sides in the Northern Redbacks and UWA-Nedlands do battle. UWA-Nedlands have been one of the big movers in 2010 with Conrad McKelvie's side starting to fulfill their promise. Instrumental to this has been midfielder Adele Gardiner and perpetual performer Amber Roberts. Defensively Lara Jones has been a pillar and helped marshal a line that has been difficult to breakdown. The Redbacks had a slower start to 2010 but that has not been the case of late with the northern side currently on a 4 game winning streak. With a large portion of their squad out on State duty, the Redbacks have had a weeks rest and will be the better for it. Striker Lara Filocamo has worked herself back into form while Rebecca Dudek and Jessica Byrne have quietly done the job in the centre of the park. This should be a game of free flowing and inventive football which both sides pride themselves on.
4.7.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE REVIEW: ROUND 9
An eventful Round 9 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's League saw great comebacks, shocks and masterful performances. Balcatta continued their premiership march with a comfortable win, while closest rivals East Fremantle were ambushed at home and Subiaco put in a lion-hearted performance on the road.
East Fremantle v UWA-Nedlands
After threatening for many weeks, UWA-Nedlands have taken a big scalp when they defeated East Fremantle 2 – 1 courtesy of a winner from striker Sarah Gunnarson. The result didn't look likely early as the home side struck first through midfielder Sylvia Flynn. Down by the goal, UWA-Nedlands increased their work rate and intensity to put East Fremantle under pressure defensively and on the attack. Their efforts were finally rewarded when a good Sarah Gunnarson cross produced an own goal.
Back level, the visitors continued to push with strong efforts from their creative 17 year old winger Domi Le Miere and midfield general Adele Gardiner. The pressure finally told when Gunnarson this time turned scorer to put UWA-Nedlands in front. Despite the efforts of the hardworking Emma Ylias and Sarah Hughes, the port side were unable to get back level giving UWA-Nedlands their third win of the season and taking them back into the Top 4. “It was deserved victory for all the hard work they have done," said UWA-Nedlands coach Conrad McKelvie. "They really bounced back from last week and worked hard knowing that they could really get a result."
Balcatta SC v Beckenham Angels
A scintillating four goals from in form striker Caitlin Dingle has led Balcatta Soccer Club to a solid 5 – 1 win over the Beckenham Angels. Despite the eventual scoreline it was a tight opening 20 minutes with the Angels looking to pressure the home side and disrupt their flow. The defensive quartet of Jacqui Mayers, Phillipa Foote, Kayla Coppens and Brooke Johannessen worked diligently to try and quell the irrepressible Balcatta strikeforce. However, with the home side putting three goals on the board by half time, it was always going to be tough battle.
Back in her traditional central midfield role, Prue Cormie was instrumental in supplying Dingle and winger Allarice Keswell got back to some of her best form. With Ashleigh Panaia away on State duty, striker, and last year's first division goal boot winner, Erin Walsh paired up with Dingle and converted an Emily Williams' cross in to a goal with a spectacular half volley. There were some good signs for the Angels with Adelaide Knowles continuing to get on the board and strong performances from their midfield. The win sees Balcatta pull away to a 6 point lead but with a big couple weeks that sees them play East Fremantle, the Northern Redbacks and Queens Park, midfielder Domenica Carbone is well aware that could all change quickly. “What are looking to do now is try and play some dominant football so were are our peak for the next three games." she stated. "These three games are going to test us for the finals and shape who ends up at the top of the ladder.”
Bunbury Forum Force v Subiaco AFC
Subiaco AFC has come from behind to snatch a late point as they drew 2 – 2 with Bunbury Forum Force away from home. The Force have struggled on their home patch this season and looked to get off to a flyer. Applying significant midfield pressure, Bunbury converted that pressure into goals with Casey Webb striking first. The Force doubled their lead soon after with a goalline scramble resulting in Mel Gonzalez eventually tucking the ball away.
Although 2 - 0 down at half time, the Lions were not be cowed and fought back hard. Sustained pressure saw them peg one back before they pushed hard and produced the equaliser six minutes from the final whistle. While pleased with his side's comeback, Subiaco coach Dan Evans believed they deserved more. “Despite a ten minute period of madness, I thought we were the better side and on the chances we definitely should have taken the points.”
*The Queens Park v Northern Redbacks fixture has been postponed to a later date.
2.7.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE REVIEW: ROUND 9
The fixtures are reset in the Smarter than Smoking Women's League as we head into Round 9 with feature match throws up an intriguing encounter with fourth placed Queens Park hosting third placed Northern Redbacks at Coker Park. Queens Park have endured an inconsistent season so far that has included big wins and disappointing losses. The home side will be hoping last round's 2 - 0 defeat of UWA-Nedlands signals a reversal of their form. Gemma Langley has been superb this season with the experienced and hard nosed midfielder pulling the strings. Forwards Lindsay Easton and Ellis Glanfield have also proved vital, however, they will need to score more regularly if their side is to come back into title contention. The Northern Redbacks made a slower than average start to the season but since going down to Balcatta in Round 4, Tim Hodgson's side have notched up four games on the trot. On the attacking front forward Lara Filocamo has once again found form to be within striking distances of the golden boot while strike partner Carol Howes and winger Sarah Carroll have provided able support. Defensively they have been equally impressive with 'keeper Jennifer Jobling marshalling a young line including the polished Shaun Billam, Amy Knights and Courtney Omodei. Regardless of where they are on the ladder it is always a tough class between the two.
In a re-match of last weekend's Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup fixture East Fremantle take on UWA-Nedlands at Wauhop Park. East Fremantle are currently in great form in all areas of the park. Casey Herberner, Jessica Hunter and Sarah Hughes have lead the scoring with the port side netting 14 goals in their last 3 games. This has been complimented by stellar performances by Morgan Cox in goals and a defensive line which has not conceded in 3 games. While East Fremantle have had a good defence all season, the central combination of Amy-Jo Dixon and Rebecca Baumgartner allow for a better balanced back four and rivals Balcatta for the strongest in the League. Last week's result can be considered an aberration in for UWA-Nedlands. Conrad McKelvie's side have been in good form of late but the loss of several key first team players meant it was always going to be a tough road for the green and gold in the Cup. After a shaky start to her season, new 'keeper Linda Kavamburq has been good. Adele Gardiner and Amber Roberts have been instrumental all season for UWA-Nedlands but they will need their supporting cast in Stephanie Graskoski, Jessica Blake and Ailee Taggart to also put in solid performance if they are to defeat East Fremantle.
Balcatta come off the Cup weekend with a big win over Balga SC but the recent form of the defending champions has been steady without being spectacular. 'Catta have been cruising of late, rarely troubled Lisa Tana's side has just been moving along nicely and doing what they need to do to win. Injuries have hit them hard this season with forward Jiami Carley still in cast and midfielder Sara Clapham went under the knife this week with her third knee construction (ouch, and best of luck Sara). All that has meant that others have had to step up and none have done so better than Ashleigh Panaia. Winger Domenica Carbone has also been sensational and there is not much more to be said about the backline which is always rock solid. Beckenham have also had injuries shake them up and this week they see head coach Leo Coppens step down for the rest of season as he too prepares for surgery (best of luck Leo). Captain Danielle Jeans will take over the coaching duties as a player/coach of a side that it is fair to say has underachieved so far this season. There is plenty of talent in the Angels squad but they have yet to put it all together. After a 7 - 1 thumping in Round 1, the Angels will be wanting to redeem themselves against the League's benchmark.
Another re-match from last weekend's Cup fixtures sees Bunbury Forum Force host Subiaco AFC. The Force have been an enigma this season with some impressive performances and wins on the road, but they have struggled on their home turf. They have the chance to rectify that this weekend as they look to reproduce a 2 - 0 win in the Cup over the Lions. Captain Lisa Ward has truly lead by example this season in steadying and guiding a young, but talented side. Kim McCartney has shown why she is considered one of WA's best young strikers and Carissa Wright, Casey Webb and Stephanie Whild have provided able support. The key to this match is if they can get it right defensively. Subiaco AFC would be the first to say that it has been a tough couple of weeks. A big loss in the League was followed up by a flat performance in the Cup which saw last year's finalist bundled out. However, consistency and competitiveness have been the hallmarks of Dan Evan's inexperienced squad and they would be expected to bounce back. Gabby Walker-Ortega, Brittany Dyer-Smith and Marrisa Pidgeon have been the standouts but the mature heads of Kitty Foley, Sonja Felderhof and Brooke Tillemans could see the Lions turn their season around. And it needs to start this week.
24.6.2010
GODDESSES TO SPREAD WINGS
A top men's football club for decades, this season Floreat Athena launched a women's side to play in the Smarter than Smoking Women's League. Although starting from the bottom of the women's competition, the Athena Goddesses have shown that it won't be long before they are travelling up the divisions as they sit currently on top of their divison ladder and are yet to drop a points, Team Manager Luke Tsakisiris and the coaching staff have been impressed and overwhelmed by the calibre of player recruited. "It has exceeded our expectations." said an ecstatic Tsakisiris. "We have a great bunch of players who have formed our first team. They are the beginning of the womens football revolution at Floreat Athena and have come together as one and are a high flying team currently sitting top of the table in their league."
This success has seen Floreat Athena look to expand their women's program and earlier this week the powerhouse club announced the Women's Football Initiative (WFI). WFI is to be a program for players of varing experience from beginners to decade long players with an aim to develop essential skills on and off the pitch. "We will tailor make training sessions to suit each players need. WFI will also incorporate fitness training so for those that want to have fun, learn a skill and get fit WFI is the perfect program. This is an open invitation to all women or girls out there that want to play football or just get fit, they can join at any time all they will need is a pair of boots!" While the focus for WFI is participation, Tsakisiris believes that the initiative is just the beginning for further programs for women's football within the club."We believe this start up program is the stepping stone to having a full academy set up at Floreat Athena," he stated. "We may be a few years off the ultimate goal of an academy but we believe in womens football as much as our State League mens. We want the WA football community to know it and we believe we have the drive and determination to make it happen." Further they hope that the implementation of the program will lead to 2 or 3 more sides for Athena in the upcoming seasons.
For the moment its just small steps and a focus on the current squad. In traditional Athena style this years side will be honoured with a jumper presentation this Sunday. "This sunday is about appreciation, giving something back to the players that have committed themselves to Floreat Athena," said a proud Tsakisiris. "We want everyone to know about the Floreat Athena Goddesses and how much we love them. So the perfect way to do that is present the team to our fans, members, sponsors and the whole football community" The shirt presentation will take place prior to the big clash between traditional rivals Perth SC at E&D Litis Stadium. A presentation will be made to each player by the coaches with special guests including Perth Glory Womens players Shannon May and Tanya Oxtoby. "We chose a high profile match like this one for the presentation to ensure the message is loud and clear to the womens football community, we are serious and we are here to stay. The message to all women potential wanting to join Floreat Athena? We want you and you are welcome any time."
24.6.2010
THE PRIDE OF SUBIACO
It's not been an easy off-season and year for the Subiaco Lions. With several players departing due to retirement, relocation, to start families and the dreaded injuries, new coach Dan Evans has been charged with the task of rebuilding the Lions in Season 2010. "You would hope that all players don't step out at the same time but we are in the position that we are in. However, we have been very positive and I am confident that we can be pretty competitive." said Evans. One of the largest Junior Clubs in the State and with an enviable number of girls teams in various competitions, the Lions have had to call on that depth to replenish its top side. "The systems are in place and there is a very strong junior set up. I am confident that we can see the benefits of that not only this year but in years to come, " he stated. "What I would like to establish is a great link between the juniors to the seniors."
Evans, who holds an Asian B Coaching Qualification has been part of the coaching establishment for a couple of years. Considering the place where Subiaco finds itself, Evans, with his well known for his ability to nurture young talent, appears to be the perfect candidate to steer the Premier girls. "I have always been a fan of promoting players who want to achieve things at that level and I think this had to happen for the club." There is no lack of talent available to him with many players standing out as footballers of the future. A rock at the back, goalkeeper Marissa Pidgeon has demonstrated that she is one of the best custodians in the women's game; hard working midfielder Brittany Dyer-Smith has seen her talent recognised overseas with a scholarship to play in the US; fellow playmaker Jen Chantler, formerly part of the NTC system, has displayed that she is also ready to take the next step. All are integral to Evans' overall plan for 2010. “For this season though, its about gelling as a playing group. I am still keen to strengthen the squad but more importantly, I am keen to strengthen the players that I have got in all the areas strength, technically and tactically.” However, he recognises that it will not all happen overnight. “I see this season as part of a three year plan of what we want to achieve.”
As expected of new squad of players it has been an inconsistent first half the season with good football and results interspaced with a couple of disappointing results. Despite that Subiaco have displayed enough this season to foreshadow that they will be a real contenders in years to come. “We are going to try to play football. Win or lose, I think a characteristic of the side is that we are going to try and play. Playing the ball to feet, getting it down and good movement off the ball. We are not at the level that I would like us to be at but I think we will keep encouraging that type of football and what I want resort to is playing five at the back and just lumping the ball up the park.”
24.6.2010
SMARTER THAN SMOKING WOMEN'S CUP PREVIEW: ROUND 3
The feature match in Round 3 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's League Cup pits two Premier League sides against one another with second-placed East Fremantle hosting fifth-placed UWA-Nedlands at Wauhop Park. East Fremantle is in sizzling touch at the moment with interim coach Jasmina Markovich leading a side filled with talent and confidence. Casey Herberner and Jessica Hunter take charge of a potent midfield and attack while Rebecca Baumgartner holds up a near unbreakable defence bolstered by the return of centre back partner Amy-Jo Dixon.
UWA-Nedlands has also enjoyed great recent form and would feel unlucky to have dropped points last week. Striker Amber Roberts has been the chief avenue to goal supplied by impressive duo Adele Gardiner and Brooke Fletcher. This week they will have to be on the ball defensively as they take on a side that has netted a devastating 17 goals in just four games. The last time these two sides met it was a 4-1 victory for East Fremantle. However, considering the recent form of both sides a closer contest is anticipated. Other fixtures of note include an all-Premier League battle that sees Subiaco AFC host Bunbury Forum Force and the intriguing match-up between the leader of the Premier Reserves, Northern Redbacks and Premier side Beckenham Angels.
PLAYER PROFILE: Marrisa Pidgeon
Marissa Pidgeon's has been one of the standout goalkeepers this season with her glove work helping her side Subiaco AFC to some important wins and results. Pidgeon, in her first season in the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League, has been a revelation and marks down her conversion to football to the Socceroos. "I was inspired by the Socceroos making it to the World Cup." Pidgeon's great shot stopping ability and commanding presence in the penalty area has helped the Lions to draws with title favourites East Fremantle, two clean sheets and Man of the Match performances against the Beckenham Angels and UWA-Nedlands. Those same skills were also noticed by the Perth Glory Women in their inaugural 2008 season and marks as one her greatest achievements to date. "Also making the saves in the penalty shoot out to get Subiaco into the Division One final in my first year."
New coach Dan Evans has also had a part to play in the Subiaco custodians development. "Dan brings professionalism and enthusiasm to every game and has encouraged me to take a leadership role to the Subiaco cubs". Despite all that she does well there are still areas to work on including her goal kicks and a general understanding of football. "I find it hard to talk football terminology - I have my coach and team mates bewildered at a few of my instructions." 2010 is a re-building year for the Lion cubs but with Pidgeon part of the squad, there is real potential to be realised. "We have young squad which is rebuilding after a change in player group. The enthusiasm and team camaraderie is great. I live vicariously through them and it keeps me young."
QUICK 5IVE
Adidas or Nike? Nike
Favourite Footballer? Tracey Wheeler (ex Matildas Goalkeeper and Australian Hall of Famer)
If you could visit any football stadium in the world, which would it be? Camp Nou as have already been to Craven cottage which was awesome
Favourite team to beat in the Women's Premier League? Balcatta
The hardest thing about football is....... stopping your shinpads from stinking!
This email is confidential. If received in error, please delete it from your system.
20.6.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE REVIEW: ROUND 8
Round 8 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League put up few surprises with favoured sides East Fremantle and the Northern Redbacks and ladder leaders Balcatta all notching up victories. Meanwhile Queens Park belied their recent form to defeat UWA-Nedlands in a mini upset.
East Fremantle v Bunbury Forum Force
Late goals and a dominant second half from East Fremantle has seen the second placed side defeat a stubborn Bunbury Forum Force 4 – 0 at Wauhop Park.
Bunbury Forum Force continued their strong road form as they pushed the home side in the opening half. Captain Lisa Ward was instrumental in the midfield with the help of U17 State player Kim McCartney and a well organised defensive line. Despite this, East Fremantle opened the scoring courtesy of a penalty just before half time with Casey Herberner taking on conversion duties with no problems. It was a more polished performance from the home side after the interval as winger Sarah Hughes began to win her battles and full back Annique Keisler providing crucial drive. A 63rd minute Jessica Hunter strike eventually broke the Force resistance with Teegan Wright and Emma Ylias finishing it off late.
Victory and a healthy goal difference means the port side remains right on the heels of Balcatta in second position. For the visitors, its another good football performance without just reward.
Balcatta v Subiaco AFC
Three goals on either side of the break has seen Balcatta SC maintain top spot with a 6 - 0 romp at home over Subiaco AFC.
As with all Balcatta results this season it all started with a strong defensive effort by Lindsey Kenyon and Lauren Bushby with Katy Coghlan providing cover and initiating attacks. Winger Domenica Carbone was also influential with service and her own unlucky strikes at goal. However, it was strikers Dingle and Panaia who stole the show. American import Caitlin Dingle returned to her goal scoring best with 4 goals for the match with newly minted State U17s striker Ashleigh Panaia showing she's one to watch for WA with a brace.
The young and inexperienced Lions tried hard all day but with too many players to cover it was a struggle. Goalkeeper Marrisa Pidgeon once again displayed why she is considered the best in the League with another impressive performance and midfielder Brittany Dyer-Smith continued her high work rate. Subiaco coach Dan Evans was philosophical about the defeat. “Balcatta have a fantastic blend of youth and experience and I have a lot of respect for what they have done, ” said Evans. “The score wasn’t a best reflection of the match. We did compete but their quality out shone and they took their chances well.”
The superb home win leaves the defending champions on top of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League. However, with East Fremantle and the Northern Redbacks breathing down their neck, they will need to keep winning to see off the challengers.
Northern Redbacks v Beckenham Angels
Lara Filocamo has continued her return form as her brace helped the Northern Redbacks to a 3 – 0 defeat of challengers the Beckenham Angels.
The Redbacks started the match the better with their midfield settling the better and getting on top. Filocamo finished off attacking moves clinically giving a her side a 2 – 0 lead at half time. Leo Coppen’s side came out more switched on in the second half and the Angels had they chances as they pressured the northern side for a spell. Unfortunately for them the cross bar and Jennifer Jobling’s palmed save meant they were unable to convert the opportunities. With the Angels pressing, the Redbacks were able to exploit holes at the back with Carol Howes adding to her season tally.
The loss keeps the Angels in seventh position while Redbacks coach Tim Hodgson was pleased as the win keeps his side within striking distance of the Top 2. “I think we have let a few points slip and we have to keep winning to keep in touch with those above us. When we play them that is when we can make up three points on them but at the moment we just have to keep in touch.”
UWA-Nedlands FC v Queens Park
Goals from striker Lindsay Easton and in form midfielder Gemma Langley has helped the visiting Queens Park Thunder to a 2 – nil win over UWA-Nedlands.
After heartening displays against Balcatta, UWA-Nedlands looked to continue that form in Round 8. But despite having high possession, they were unable to capitalise on any breaches of the Thunder defence. Queens Park took advantage of this in a 10 minute burst. A hand ball on the edge of the box saw Queens Park provided with an opportunity to open the scoring and Easton did so with a brilliant curling 20 yard effort into the top corner. With the momentum, Langley doubled the advantage not long after when her quick thinking lob found the UWA-Nedlands' ‘keeper off her line.
Going into the round there was only a point difference between the two sides but at the end of the weekend play Queens Park has jumped UWA-Nedlands into fourth place on the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League table.
18.6.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: ROUND 8
Round 8 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League kicks off this Sunday with four top matches taking place.
EAST FREMANTLE v BUNBURY FORUM FORCE
Second placed East Fremantle host Bunbury Forum Force at Wauhop Park in what is set up to be an intriguing encounter. It will be a testing next 6 weeks for East Fremantle as look to remain in touch with top spot without Golden Boot leader and club top scorer Katarina Jukic, left back Antonia Jukic and coach Tony Carvajal. For Bunbury Forum Force they will be hoping captain Lisa Ward and forwards Carrisa Wright and Casey Webb will help them continue their good road form.
Balcatta SC v Subiaco AFC
Meanwhile ladder leaders Balcatta SC take on a resurgent Subiaco AFC. Balcatta are currently on a five game winning streak and will look to young gun Ashleigh Panaia, a plethora of stars and the best defence in the League to continue that run. However, Subiaco will be tricky opponents and look to Justine Gustavino to follow up last week’s brace and goalkeeper Marissa Pidgeon to maintain her spectacular form.
Northern Redbacks v Beckenham Angels
Down the road the Northern Redbacks host a potentially dangerous Beckenham Angels. In third place, the Redbacks will want to stay in touch with the top two with another victory. Crucial to this will be the performance of midfielders Nicola Williams and Sarah Carroll who are the barometers of the side. The Angels have produced patchy performances this year and will want to get some wins under their belt. However when their striking force, headed by Melissa Spillman, Danielle Jeans and Lizzie Courtley, clicks they can defeat any side on their day.
UWA-Nedlands FC v Queens Park
Fourth placed UWA-Nedlands FC take on the side they have replaced in Queens Park. It’s been a good couple of weeks for UWA-Nedlands with honourable losses, despite goals from Amber Roberts, to Balcatta providing hope for the future. Meanwhile Queens Park will need to once again pick themselves up after a heavy loss and challenge the northern side with Gemma Langley and Ellis Glanfield to lead this charge.
11.6.2010
ROUND 7 REVIEW
QUEENS PARK v EAST FREMANTLE
East Fremantle put in their most polished performance of the season with a devastating 6-0 win away from home. The two sides had played out a 2-2 draw last weekend but in the return leg the port side were too strong with their fast paced brand of football doing the damage.
Hat-trick star and leader of the League Golden Boot race Katarina Jukic got the visiting side off to the perfect start with a spectacular long range strike. From that point on goals at regular intervals kept Queens Park on the back foot and the home side had no answers. Regaining her fitness after a lay off, midfielder Casey Herberner chimed in with a brace and, a revelation this season, striker Jessica Hunter continued her goal scoring form.
The win is a first for caretaker coach and former player Jasmina Markovich and it keeps East Fremantle within striking distance of summit. For Queens Park they still remain in fifth position despite their biggest loss of the season. With injuries starting to take a toll on the squad, it could be a tough couple of weeks for the Thunder.
BECKENHAM ANGELS v SUBIACO AFC
As signaled by their close proximity on the Smarter than Smoking Women's League table, the Beckenham Angels and Subiaco AFC played out an entertaining 2-2 draw at Mills Park.
Subiaco started the game the better and dominated proceedings for the first 45 with the Lions taking a deserved 2-0 lead courtesy of two Justine Gustavino strikes. However after the interval Leo Coppen's side came out the better. In a direct contrast to the opening 45, the Angels kept Subiaco holed up their defensive area for most of the second half with the result being goals to Jamie-Lee Gale and Melissa Spillman. Once again Subiaco's goalkeeper had a say in the outcome with her late reflex stop denying the home side all three points.
The result keeps Subiaco in sixth position and Beckenham in seventh position with both sides displaying that it won't be long before they are climbing the ladder.
BALCATTA SC v UWA-NEDLANDS
Balcattta once again held off a determined UWA-Nedlands outfit with a 2-1 win at home echoing their victory last weekend. Impressive young striker Ashleigh Panaia added to her season tally by netting again while midfielder Prue Cormie also got on the board. The vistor's striker Amber Roberts maintained pressure on the Golden Boot leaders as she netted her sixth for the season.
The win ensures Balcatta maintain their three point buffer on the chasing pack. Meanwhile results have conspired to see UWA-Nedlands continue to occupy fourth position. Despite the two losses, Conrad McKelvie would be buoyed by his sides display against the defending champions.
BUNBURY FORUM FORCE v NORTHERN REDBACKS
A scintillating three goal second half onslaught has seen the Northern Redbacks defeat Bunbury Forum Force 5-0 at Hay Park.
Despite the scoreline it was the home side that started the brighter with striker Carissa Wright played into one-on-one opportunities with Redbacks' goalkeeper Jennifer Jobling. However, Wright was unable to take advantage as she sprayed one high and another just wide of the target. Further good midfield play by captain Lisa Ward saw more opportunities and with a bit of luck the Firebirds could have gone ahead.
The Redbacks finally played themselves into the match with winger Sarah Carroll opening the scoring before Nicola Williams tapped in a cross. The second half saw the Redbacks midfield gain the ascendancy with Williams capping off a sweeping move with her second. Williams bagged her hat-trick late with Jessica Byrne also chipping in with one of her own.
The Northern Redbacks survived the early scares to grab three points that keep them in touch with the top two sides. Meanwhile it was disappointment for the Force as they were unable to capitalise on early chances, leaving the south-west side in last position.
11.6.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: ROUND 7
Its the reverse round in the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League. Round 6 saw some tight results, will it be the same or will last week's losers be this week's winners.
Queens Park hosts the second place East Fremantle in the pick of the action in Round 7 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League. Queens Park would be happy with how they responded to their Cup disappointment as they held East Fremantle to a 2-2 draw. Ellis Glanfield capped a good fortnight with two goals and her side will be looking for a similar performance at home. Despite last week's draw, East Fremantle remains in second spot although they would be looking for victory this weekend to stay in touch with ladder leaders Balcatta SC. Katarina Jukic and Jessica Hunter again did the damage last Sunday and with coach Tony Carvajal unavailable for the next month, this will be the start of a big test for the port side. Queens Park has not had the best home record this season, whilst East Fremantle has enjoyed some great results on the road. All this makes for an interesting return leg in the Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League.
Other Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League Fixtures:
Balcatta v UWA-Nedlands - Grindleford Reserve - 1.00pm Sunday
Beckenham Angels v Subiaco AFC - Mills Park - 3.00pm Sunday
Bunbury Forum Force v Northern Redbacks - Hay Park - 3.00pm Sunday
STS CUP DRAW: ROUND 3
Fixtures for Round 3 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup has been announced this week. The draw took place at Football West offices in Maylands with Women's League Competitions Administrator Angela Murphy and Competitions Manager Keith Wood present. The key matches of the round see Premier League sides Subiaco AFC taking on Bunbury Forum Force and East Fremantle hosting UWA-Nedlands. Round 3 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup will take place on Sunday June 27. For full fixtures, please click here
10.6.2010
KING OF QUEENS
Sara King has been in women's football for a long time and after taking out the 2008 Women's Premier League Goalkeeper of the Year along with Penny Tanner-Hoath, you could have forgiven her for bowing out of the game. But that's not Sara King's style and when it was announced that the south-west would be fielding a side in the metro competition, she didn't have many qualms about signing on. " I love the buzz I get when I walk out onto the pitch and off the pitch at full time." said King. " I love hearing someone say "YES" thinking they have scored just before I tip it over the bar or around the post."
From the age of 7 football has been King's world and passion. It has seen her travel the world playing in the States and England and representing her country. However, it hasn't always been a smooth road and over the years the impressive shot-stopper has had to battle her body (Compartment Syndrome her legs) and the football establishment. "I have also had to accept that as a girl (I was about 10), I was never going to get to play in the Premier League in England for a men's team." she remembers. "Also when I was in Year 10 the Australian Women's Soccer Association tried to get me and a number of girls into the AIS in 1988 but we were rejected on the basis that we were females. I was completely devastated as I honestly thought we were going to be accepted as we were the cream of the crop at the time. Thank goodness this has changed."
You don't get to don the Arsenal shirt without having some serious talent and determination. "My best qualities are shot stopping, single-mindedness and directing play so I don't have to do as much (laughs)." But that doesn't mean that she has stopped learning even with close to 30 years of playing behind her." I can always improve my fitness, fine tuning techniques like collecting crosses and corners and getting down low quickly." Besides that she cherishes making various Australian teams and making the All American side for the NJCAA (University system) two years in a row.
The next challenge of Sara's football odyssey is with Bunbury Forum Force, and although they won't be challenging for the title King believes that there is plenty to look forward to. "There is sooooo much potential. We have a great team spirit, a really friendly bunch and awesome captain."
"I want to finish my 30th year playing and I will be very very happy. After that I'd like to focus on coaching the younger generation (and the older one if they'll have me), teams and goalkeepers."
Quick 5ive
Adidas or Nike? Adidas
Favourite Footballer? Mia Hamm - USA
If you could visit any football stadium in the world, which would it be? Ooooooooh! Back to White Heart Lane. I've already been there to see Tottenham play, but that was when they weren't challenging for the Top 4.
Favourite team to beat in the Women's Premier League? ALL OF THEM!!!!
The hardest thing about football is.......having to accept that as a female we don't have the same pathways as the men. Hopefully one day this will not be the case in Australia and we will have equal paths to choose. It has already come SO far, lets not rest on our laurels and keep pushing!
6.6.2010
ANGELS AND LIONS SHARE POINTS
Steadfast goalkeeping and missed chances were the story of the day as Subiaco AFC and the Beckenham Angels played out a scoreless draw in Round 6 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League.
Fresh from a win in Round 2 of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Cup, the Beckenham Angels were looking to transfer that form to League and in the 6th minute they looked like they would strike early.
After winning a free kick on the left wing, Lizzie Courtley floated in her ball to the edge of the six-yard box and the waiting Melissa Spillman. However, Spillman couldn’t emulate last week’s heroics as she blasted wide of the target.
On top early, the Angels turned the screws on the home side and Claire Wragg took control of the midfield as she switched the play with a diagonal ball into the path of Danielle Jeans.
Jeans returned the favour to allow Wragg to strike with venom. Under the pressure of the fast approaching Spillman, Subiaco goalkeeper Marrisa Pidgeon fumbled before gaining control.
Subiaco have been in reasonable form of late and their playmakers didn’t going to allow the Angels full run.
However it took until the 34th minute for the home side to strike on target.
Midfielder Rosie Cocker released her partner Brittany Dyer-Smith into space. Shadowed by Jaqui Mayers, Dyer-Smith could only steer her shot straight at Beckenham goalkeeper Penny Tanner-Hoath.
With the urging of their coach, the visitors hit back four minutes later.
Tanner-Hoath’s long goal kick eventually found Jamie-Lee Gale on the right wing. The winger cut inside the defender before striking on the angle from 12 yards out forcing Pidgeon to parry the ball around the post for a corner.
Substituted into the midfield Kirby Larsen looked to make impact early with a touchline run. Evading two defenders, she was eventually foiled by Brooke Tillemans goal saving tackle; with the later sustaining a knock for her effort.
With half time approaching Subiaco managed one more foray into the visitors half. A 43rd minute free kick for Subiaco dropped awkward at the top of the penalty area.
Tanner-Hoath attempted to claim it but with her unable to take it cleanly, defender Brooke Johannessen’s attempted clearance ricocheted off Flo Tawns before drifting agonisingly close to goals.
In increasingly gloomy weather, the home side started the brighter after the break with Jen Chantler, Dyer-Smith and Gabby Walker-Ortega really starting to open up the visitors and their defence thin.
However it was the Angels who created the first half chance of the half.
A one-two between Wragg and Courtley in the 55th minute released Courtley in behind the defence. Her cut back to the Larsen on 18 yards gave her enough time to strike but her disappointing effort sailed straight at the ‘keeper.
Walker-Ortega looked to convert Subiaco’s possession into goals seven minutes later when she drifted in behind the defence. Pulling back to the middle, the midfielder found Janine Gustavino but her first strike on goal just missed the upright.
The home side were starting to contain the Angels’ midfield with the experienced Meg Connop and Brooke Tillemans leading the fightback.
Despite that, Beckenham were still finding opportunities and when Jeans 18 yard volleyed just floated over the crossbar in the 71st minute it only looked like a matter of time before the Angels took the lead.
Courtley again turned supplier in the 80th minute as her back post cross found Spillman and Gale. On an acute angle, the youngster again went close as her strike slammed into the side post.
However, for all of the visitors attacks, the difference between the two sides was Pidgeon with her superb multiple efforts late keeping her side in the match. First by cutting off Jeans’ advance towards goal in the 82nd minute. Then two minutes later thwarting Spillman as she ran onto Larsen’s beautifully weighted through ball.
In the dying seconds captain Jeans’ cross picked out the newly inserted Annick Pham but like her teammates she headed wide to keep the scores locked when proceedings were brought to a close.
Subiaco AFC 0
Beckenham Angels 0
Subiaco AFC: GK. Marrisa PIDGEON, 2. Brooke TILLEMANS, 3. Wendy PEACE, 4. Jen CHANTLER, 5. Kitty FOLEY, 6. Meg CONNOP, 7. Alex CASSIE, 9. Janine GUSTAVINO, 10. Gabby WALKER-ORTEGA, 11. Sonja FELDERHOF, 12.Flo TAWNS, 13. Tina MASH, 14. Brittany DYER-SMITH, 15. Julia REAY, 16. Rosie COCKER, 17. Rayne HENRY
Beckenham Angels: GK Penelope TANNER-HOATH, 2. Danielle JEANS, 3. Kirby LARSEN, 4. Elizabeth COURTLEY, 5. Jess FERGUSON, 7. Sarah VANSNICK, 8. Jamie-Lee GALE, 10. Phillipa FOOTE, 11. Annick PHAM, 12. Melissa SPILLMAN 13. Claire WRAGG, 14. Cassandra MOORE, 15. Peta SHEFFIELD, 16. Brooke JOHANNESSEN, 18. Jacqui MAYERS
East Fremantle v Queens Park
East Fremantle and Queens Park have played out an entertaining 2 – 2 draw at Wauhop Park. Queens Park shrugged off last week’s Cup result with an improved performance. Forward Ellis Glanfield finished off the display with two goals whilst Katarina Jukic continued her goalscoring form and strike partner Jessica Hunter also added to her season tally. The result keeps East Fremantle in second position and Queens Park in fifth.
Northern Redbacks v Bunbury Forum Force
The Northern Redbacks have come from behind to defeat the Bunbury Forum Force 2 – 1 at Rickman Delawney. Stephanie Wild put the visitors in front before the Redbacks machine clicked into gear. Lara Filicamo snapped her goalscoring drought while the influential Nicola Williams added another to her season tally. This result keeps the Northern Redbacks in third position and within striking distance of the leaders.
UWA-Nedlands FC v Balcatta
Balcatta were made to work for their 2 – 1 win over UWA-Nedlands at McGillivray Oval. The impressive Ashleigh Panaia got on the board along with Caitlin Dingle for the ladder leaders while Jaime Blake netted her first goal for her new club. Another three points keeps Balcatta SC three points clear of their nearest rivals. Meanwhile other results have kept UWA-Nedlands in the Top 4.
3.6.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: ROUND 6
This week in the Smarter than Smoking Women's League East Fremantle take on Queens Park, the Northern Redbacks host Bunbury Forum Force at Rickman Delawney,
UWA-Nedlands look to topple Balcatta and in the pick of the action Subiaco AFC hosts the Beckenham Angels.
East Fremantle are just ticking along nicely at the moment. Despite injuries and the loss of players, the port side have managed to keep on the heels of ladder leaders Balcatta with solid performances and regular wins. Katarina Jukic, who with 7 goals currently leads the Golden Boot race, remains one of the keys to the side but its the big contributions from Jessica Hunter up front, the midfield brigade and the tightest defence in the League led by goalkeeper Morgan Cox that sees East Fremantle just one point off top spot and leave them the only side yet to taste defeat. On the other hand Queens Park have had a rough couple of weeks with last weekends defeat in the Cup making it a trio of losses on the trot. Regardless of the results, there is still some serious quality in the Thunder side. Gemma Langley has been immense in the midfield with Tisha Bohne also displaying why she is vital to the side. However, it is up front that they need a spark with the side only averaging a goal a game recently. Lindsay East, Ellis Glandfield and Temira Rowatt have all been good without much to show for it. This week they will need to step it up again if they are to get past the equal best defence in the League.
What a difference consecutive wins make! With victory over Beckenham, UWA-Nedlands have jumped into the Top 4 and I suspect Conrad McKelvie's side have every intention of staying there. A large part of this success has been the form of club stalwart Amber Roberts whose goals have not only assisted her club but sees her in equal second place in goals scored. But as Conrad himself will probably tell you it has been a team effort with Roberts' strike partner Ailee Taggart assisting on the scoreboard and the Adele Gardiner lead midfield supplying plenty off ball. Again the defence with will the where it all begins as Linda Kavamburq and her back four have conceded the second least number of goals this season. And considering their opponents, they will need to put in another big performance. Table toppers Balcatta are in ominous form despite the recent spate of injuries. Forward Jiami Carley, Hazel Barton and Sara Clapham are just some of the first team players currently sidelined but the 2009 Champions have continued on their winning ways. Slotting nicely into the breach have been Emilia Golek and Ashleigh Panaia with usual brigade of Prue Cormie, Sarah Marek and Co doing the business up front while the Helen Carroll led defence continue to stifle the opposition.
After a couple of losses it was business as usual for Tim Hodgson's side as they accounted for a gutsy Subiaco outfit. With Nicola Williams anchoring the midfield the Northern side look a much more potent combination. Striker Lara Filicamo has not been great touch recently but young winger Sarah Carroll and Carol Howes have more than done their share of scoring as they look to keep the Redbacks within striking distance. After gaining their first points of the season on the road, Bunbury Forum Force were unable repeat the performance and capture their first home points. Their position on the ladder belies their competitiveness in their first year in the Premier League and this week the south-west side will need all the experience of Kim McCartney, Lisa Ward and goalkeeper Sara King if they are continue their winning away form.
Despite going down to the Northern Redbacks in Round 5, the young squad of Subiaco AFC have put in solid performances recently including a 1-1 draw with joint title favourites East Fremantle. Midfielder Jen Chantler has been in superb form not only controlling the midfield with Gabby Walker-Ortega and Brittany Dyer-Smith, but also getting on the scoreboard. The Lions will be looking for a big contribution from the more experienced Sonja Felderhof, Brooke Tillemans and Tash Kirton if they are to hold and overcome the Angels. Prior to the Cup Round, the Beckenham Angels had been in indifferent form with consecutive losses to East Fremantle and UWA-Nedlands. However, an excellent Cup performance over their neighbours could just be the catalyst for their season. Beckenham were impressive last weekend with their defence led by Penny Tanner-Hoath and Kirby Larsen holding out against some stiff competition. For the Angels to take their first League points in three rounds their attacking force of Lizzie Courtley, Danielle Jeans, Melissa Spillman and Elise Cunningham will need to fire again. The last time these two sides met was in Round 11 of 2009 where the Angels stole points at the visitors home ground in a tight 2 - 1 win. Considering their form going in, a similar contest could be on the cards.
2.6.2010
A FAMILY AFFAIR
If you don't think football ability is heredity then you haven't met the Jukics. With older brother Luka an ex-Western Knights first team regular, Andrija a promising Perth Glory midfielder and younger siblings Ante and Antonia more than handy footballers Katarina Jukic never really had a chance to anything else but play football. "I started kicking a ball around as soon as I could walk," said Jukic. "We always had soccer balls round and my dad would always be training my older brothers. I would always be there watching and trying to get involved."
Since she first pulled on the boots for the Western Knights at age 9 it was clear that the East Fremantle and Perth Glory midfielder/forward had talent and skill to burn, alongside her fierce competitive nature. Regardless, she would be the first to tell you she is not the quickest player on the park but her touch, skill and football intelligence makes Jukic one of the best midfielders in the state. "My dad trained my brothers and I to be able to move and touch the ball correctly."
Gunning for a regular Perth Glory Women's position Katarina is well aware that she has plenty to work on. "That would be my speed and fitness." she states. "My team mates would most probably say passing the ball (laughing). But using my left foot for shooting is still a struggle for me."
Katarina Jukic credits a large part of her development to her East Fremantle team mates; a side that went within goal difference of taking out the 2009 Smarter than Smoking Womens Title. "I love the the group of girls and how everyone gets along on and off the field. When it comes to football everyone puts in 100% during training and in each game."
She also signals out mentor and coach Tony Carvajal who has had a calming influence on the sometimes fiery footballer. "Tony is more of a friend then a coach to me." as she speaks of her club coach. "I guess that's what makes him a lot different then many of the other coaches. He is on the sideline and sees the game from a different point of view. He gives me advice, points out my game each week and is always looking for things to work on which is great."
Jukic has had another great start to the 2010 season as she leads the Golden Boot race and plays regularly with the HPC and its not difficult to guess her goals for the season. "Short term, I want to get another [Perth Glory] contract this year to play in the W-League. Long-term, the goal is to make it as a professional. I guess anyone who loves the game as much as I do would love to play football for a living."
QUICK 5IVE
Adidas or Nike? Boots = Nike, Clothing = Adidas (haha)
Favourite Footballer? Maradona. I was brought up watching his football
If you could visit any football stadium in the world, which would it be? Emirates Stadium. I love Arsenal
Favourite team to beat in the Women's Premier League? Balcatta. Everytime we play them you know its going to be a hard game and the result is always unpredictable.
The hardest thing about football is.......getting targeted by other teams and being man marked.
30.5.2010
ANGELS FLY HIGH
After four years of trying the Beckenham Angels have finally defeated their local rivals Queens Park Thunder with a convincing 4 - 1 win in Round 2 of the Smarter than Smoking Women's Cup.
Two first half goals from Claire Wragg and Melissa Spillman set up the visitors before Queens Park fought back through Ellis Glanfield. However, the Angels were not to be denied with Danielle Jeans' second half brace sealing the result.
It was a cautious start from the combatants with the opening 15 minutes a cagey midfield battle. The experienced Gemma Langley, Tisha Bohne and Sammy Pearman started strongly against the up and coming Jamie-Lee Gale and Claire Wragg combination.
Langley had the first strike in anger in the 17th minute when she controlled Ellis Glanfield's pass before letting fly from distance but her strike sailed over the crossbar.
The visitors eventually worked themselves into the game and took the lead with their first strike on target in the 25th minute.
Good lead up play by Gale and winger Lizzie Courtley found Wragg in space on the edge of the penalty area. With little hesitation the central midfielder's strike drifted over the stranded Maya Diederichsen for the first of the match.
Emboldened, the Angels looked to increase their lead two minutes later as left back Cassie Moore played a ball to the advantage of Courtley. After turning her marker, Courtley laid off to Gale but the young midfielder's strike just missed the target.
On top, Beckenham went closer still in the 33rd minute as some intricate passing from centre back Phillipa Foote released Melissa Spillman but again her turn and strike flashed wide of the goalmouth.
Queens Park looked to wrest back control of the match as their fleet footed front half looked to make their mark. Langley's 36th minute searching run almost paid dividends when she released Monique Gordon.
A defender at her back, Gordon was unable to get enough power on the strike to trouble the Angels stand in goalkeeper and former women's goalkeeper of the year Penny Tanner-Hoath.
Absorbing the pressure, the visitors hit back with one of the team and individual goals of the season. Wragg was again in the action as she absorbed midfield pressure before releasing Gale.
Sprinting to the touch line, Gale cut back to the penalty spot where Melissa Spillman finished off the sweeping move in grand style with her spectacular bicycle kick.
2 - nil down, Queens Park striker Lindsay Easton worked hard to try and lift her side but her shot from just inside the area flashed wide on the stroke of half time.
As expected Queens Park came out full of fight after the interval and their response was swift in the 47th minute. After receiving the ball from Bohne, Glanfield took off on a right wing touchline run and struck from an acute angle to pull the lead back.
A feature all afternoon, the intriguing battle between Annie Gervers and Courtley continued in the 53rd minute. This time the latter got on top before finding Spillman. Turning into traffic Spillman managed a quick release to Gale into space but Gale's strike rattled the cross bar to deny the Angels a quick response.
Despite the near miss, the home side slowly gained the advantage as they threatened to get proceedings back on a level pegging. Pearman, Kylie Woodhouse and Bohne all worked hard to create space for Glanfield, Easton and Gordon but the Angels defence held firm.
Against the run of play the visitors re-gained their two goal buffer in the 62nd minute. After being released in the centre of the park, the busy Courtley cut her run down the left before crossing back to captain Danielle Jeans in the centre. In between two defenders, Jeans had no trouble slotting it home.
Having weathered the storm another, Moore instigated the attack once again when she pick pocketed her opponent to again feed Courtley. This time the winger picked out Spillman who honoured Jeans' central run with the captain placing it into the bottom right corner.
The Angels went close to compounding Thunder's misery late in the game when right back Kirby Larsen's 81st minute free kick was tipped onto the crossbar by Diederichsen.
Beckenham Coach Leo Coppens was understandably delighted with the result.
“It's been a slow start to the season but the girls have stuck with it and re-grouped. The girls went out and performed and one can only admire their courage. Queens Park came back at us 2 - 1 and we just settled down and 4 - 1 was fitting for the effort."
Queens Park 1 (Glanfield 47')
Beckenham Angels 4 (Wragg 25', Spillman 40', Jeans 62' / 69')
Queens Park: GK. Maya DIEDERICHSEN, 3. Lindsay EASTON, 5. Tisha BOHNE, 6. Gemma LANGLEY, 7. Kylie WOODHOUSE, 10. Nikki CAMPBELL, 11. Elise BOGEL, 13. Ellis GLANFIELD, 15. Clare DUNN, 16. Zhaccierra KANARI, 17. Brittany WOODFIN, 18. Monique GORDON, 21. Danelle CORNISH, 22. Annie GERVERS, 26. Sam PEARMAN, 28. Shea HEINSEN
Yellow Card: Glanfield 24', Gordon 59', Woodfin 82'
Beckenham Angels: GK Penelope TANNER-HOATH, 2. Danielle JEANS, 3. Kirby LARSEN, 4. Elizabeth COURTLEY, 6. Melissa SPILLMAN, 7. Phillipa FOOTE, 8. Jamie-Lee GALE, 9. Adelaide KNOWLES, 10. Jess FERGUSON, 11. Elise CUNNINGHAM, 13. Claire WRAGG, 14. Cassandra MOORE, 15. Peta SHEFFIELD, 16. Brooke JOHANNESSEN 17. Sarah VAN SNICK, 18. Jacqueline MAYERS
30.5.2010
MATILDAS: CHAMPIONS OF ASIA
With the help of Perth Glory's Sam Kerr, Katie Gill and Collette McCallum, the Westfield Matildas have braved one of their toughest ever encounters to beat DPR Korea on penalties and win the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
The Matildas entered the match with out their speedy strike force of Sarah Walsh, Lisa DeVanna and Tameka Butt with the three forwards succumbing to injuries but despite the losses, on their second attempt the Australians claimed Asia’s biggest football prize on a rain-soaked and humid Chengdu night.
Following a tense opening 19 minutes of end-to-end football, youngster Sam Kerr seemed to elude the offside trap to open the scoring off Clare Polkinghorne's diagonal ball and, beating the offside trap, Kerr guided the ball past the DPR Korea goalkeeper Hong Myong Hui.
The goal allowed Australia to increase their possession and with boosted confidence began to play the ball more and wrestle back control of the game from a DPR team that started the stronger. The Matildas pressed throughout the half with and looked to take a 2 - 0 lead when Collette McCallum found Glory teammate Kate Gill whose turn and strike from distance saw the ball just flying over the DPR goal.
The second half began much the same as the first ended with both teams fighting for every ball and every inch on the sparse and gravelly surface. In the 59th minute Garriock did some dancing on the ball before cutting it back to Elise Kellond-Knight whose driven cross found the head of Polkinghorne but her powerful header was just off target. Minutes later and Sam Kerr was free down the right but her ball into the box rose too high for Gill to get the header and create the two goal buffer Australia so desperately wanted.
Those misses proved costly when the Koreans mounted attack after attack. In the 70th minute Yun Hyon Hi got clear of the Australian defence only for the impeccable Westfield Matildas goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri to stand tall and make a fantastic save low to her left to keep the score at 1-nil. The pressure finally told as a curling ball in from the right found the head of Jo Jun Mi who placed her header into the far corner of Barbieri’s goal to level the scores.
Australia replied almost immediately with McCallum’s perfect through ball finding Polkinghorne who, with only the keeper to beat, blasted wide.
The scores level at full time and with an extra 30 minutes unable to separate the sides it was down to penalties on the boggy Chengdu Sports Center pitch
DPR Korea took first honours in the penalty shootout and struck with purpose. Australia followed up with Shipard hitting the target leveling the scores again. DPR Korea handed the Westfield Matildas their biggest chance when Yun Song Mi missed to the right leaving the match open which the Aussies grabbed with both hands, sinking the remainder of their attempts with Gill, Garriock and Ledbrook finishing with complete composure. Kyah Simon was left with the honours of securing a historic victory and stepped up to slot the ball into the top right sending the Westfield Matildas team into wild celebrations.
“I think this would be the best highlight of my career so far,” said Tom Sermanni. “With this group of girls and the lead-up we had this is just a fantastic result. I couldn’t be prouder of this group of girls and what they have achieved in such a short time.”
Australia 1 (Sam Kerr 19’) Australia win on penalties 5-4
Japan 1 (Ra Un Sim 73’)
Sunday, 30 May 2010
Chengdu Sports Center Stadium, Chengdu, China
Referee: Sachiko Yamagishi
Australia starting line-up: 1.Melissa BARBIERI (gk) (c), 4.Clare POLKINGHORNE, 5.Lauren COLTHORPE, 6.Servet UZUNLAR, 7.Heather GARRIOCK, 12. Kate GILL, 14.Collette MCCALLUM (27.Aivi LUIK 97’), 15.Sally SHIPARD, 16.Elise KELLOND-KNIGHT (10.Kylie LEDBROOK 101’), 22.Sam KERR (17.Kyah SIMON 75’), 23.Kim Carroll
Substitutes not used: 18.Lydia WILLIAMS (gk), 3.Karla REUTER, 13.Thea SLATYER, 19.Leena KHAMIS, 25.Casey DUMONT (gk), 31.Teigen ALLEN
DPR Korea starting line-up: 1.Hong Myong Hui (gk), 4.Yun Song Mi, 5.Choe Yong Sim, 6.Ra Un Sim, 8.Jo Yun Mi, 9.Rei Ye Gyong, 10.Kim Yong Ae (14.Yun Hyon Hi 53’), 11.Kim Kyong Hwa (15.Mun Chol Mi 70’), 13.Kim Chung Sim (20.Ri Hyon Suk 103’), 16.Yu Jong Hui, 21.Song Jong Sun
Substitutes not used: 3.Kwon Jong Sun, 7.Choe Un Ju, 12.Kim Un Ju, 17.Jon Myong Hwa, 18.Jo Yun Mi (gk), 22.Ri Jin Sim (gk)
Yellow cards: Choe Yong Sim 45’
Red cards: Nil
24.5.2010
DEVASTATION FOR DEVANNA
The Matildas Women's Asian Cup campaign in China has suffered a big blow with star striker Lisa De Vanna suffering a broken leg. In a challenge with the Chinese goalkeeper, DeVanna came out of the collision in pain and X-rays later revealed a break to the lower left tibula which will keep her out of the game for three months.
It's devastating news for the Matildas who lost their final group match to the hosts China 1-0 although they have already qualified for the semi-finals after winning their opening two games. The Australians have until Thursday to prepare for a crucial semi final against either DPR Korea or Japan.
23.5.2010
BALCATTA STAY TOP
In a typically bruising encounter, a strong second half performance has seen Balcatta SC defeat Queens Park 3 – 1 to remain on top of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League.
Caitlin Dingle’s free kick saw the visitors take the lead before Temira Rowatt equalised in the 75th minute. However, goals to Sarah Marek and Prue Cormie in the last ten minutes sealed victory for the visitors.
In cold and blustery conditions at Coker Park, the two sides played out a frantic opening with both teams creating a series of chances.
Balcatta’s Sarah Marek robbed a Queens Park midfielder before laying off to striker Caitlin Dingle. Dingle couldn’t keep her strike down as it rose over the cross bar. A minute later Queens Park’s Sam Pearman’s through ball put Lindsay Easton in the clear but the spearhead missed the by inches.
The 14th minute saw vocal shouts for a penalty when Marek’s through ball found Prue Cormie ghosting in behind the defence. As Cormie looked to cut inside the two defenders, the midfielder was brought down to the cries of penalty but they were not heeded to the frustration of the Balcatta supporters.
After the opening flurry the match settled down into a highly contested and physical battle and it took until the 30th minute for another opening to appear. Defender Allarice Keswell’s nonchalant long distance strike forced Diederichsen to punch the swerving ball over the cross bar for a corner.
Approaching half time, the visitors began to get on top with the majority of midfield possession allowing for chances late.
First, early link up work in the 35th minute from right back Emily Williams and winger Katy Coghlan rewarded Marek’s midfield run but her shot curled wide of the target. Then Dingle’s turn and strike just missed three minutes later.
Despite the visitor’s dominance the biggest threat on goal fell to Queens Park five minutes before the break. Winning a corner, Temira Rowatt’s ball caused some goal line confusion for the Balcatta defence before it was eventually cleared.
Balcatta continued to control the play after the break and Domenica Carbone and Cormie’s interplay in the 50th minute released Dingle. However, Queens Park’s goalkeeper Maya Diederichsen closed the striker down fast enough to force her side footed shot wide.
Five minutes later the visitors struck. After skipping past three midfielders, Cormie was brought down on the edge of the area. The resulting free kick was taken by Dingle who, after going aerially in her last few attempts, struck low and hard under the wall and into the bottom left corner.
The home side looked to answer quickly and they got their chance two minutes later through Rowatt’s corner. Her ball was cleared by the Balcatta defence before being headed back to the striker by Sammy Pearman. On target, Rowatt’s strike force Balcatta goalkeeper Helen Carroll to push it around the near post for a corner.
Queens Park were working hard with Gemma Langley and Sammy Pearman instrumental in the midfield as they created opportunities time and again for their side. It almost paid off on the hour when Elise Bogel’s 18 yard strike was cleared off the Balcatta line to deny the home side.
The equaliser eventually did come in the 74th minute with Langley heading on Diederichsen’s goal kick into the path of Rowatt. Rowatt’s control and impressive strike from 16 yards out brought the home side level with a well deserved goal.
Bouyed by the goal, Queens Park upped the tempo and looked to the take the lead. Two minutes later Easton played in winger Monique Gordon but her strike rolled agonisingly wide of the open goal mouth.
The visitors hit back hard and went close to regaining the lead in the 79th minute when a corner ball fell to Carbone on the edge of the area. Her strike thundered into the cross bar before eventually being cleared.
Two minutes later another corner ball fell to Marek in an identical position. However this time Marek’s strike avoided a mass of bodies before finding the net to give Balcatta the lead.
On top, the visitors worked to snuff out Queens Park’s challenge as Ashleigh Panaia’s played a corner to Cormie. But again the crossbar denied with her with the strike crashing into the metalwork.
The game was eventually sealed in the 86th minute when Cormie was again brought down on the edge of the area. This time a free kick was awarded and taking the shot quickly, Cormie released 86 minutes of frustration with a much deserved goal and victory for her side.
Queens Park 1 Rowatt 75’
Balcatta 3 Dingle 55’, Marek 81’, Cormie 86’
Queens Park: GK. Maya DIEDERICHSEN, 2. Temira ROWATT, 4. Helen RENARD, 3. Lindsay EASTON, 5. Tisha BOHNE, 6. Gemma LANGLEY, 7. Kylie WOODHOUSE, 11. Elise BOGEL, 13. Ellis GLANFIELD, 15. Clare DUNN, 17. Brittany WOODFIN, 18. Monique GORDON, 21. Danelle CORNISH, 22. Annie GERVERS, 26. Sam PEARMAN, 28. Shea HEINSEN
Yellow Card: Bohne 52’
Balcatta: GK. Helen CARROLL, 3. Caitlin DINGLE, 4. Searna MICHAEL, 5. Lyndsey KENYON, 7. Emilia GOLIK, 9. Katy COGHLAN, 10. Allarice KESWELL, 11. Prue CORMIE, 12. Domenica CARBONE, 13. Lauren BUSBY, 14. Ashleigh PANAIA, 16. Sarah MAREK, 15 Emily WILLIAMS, 17. Chelsea EVANS, 18. Samantha GATENBY
Northern Redbacks v Subiaco AFC
The Northern Redbacks have jumped back into the winners circle with a 3 – 1 win over Subiaco AFC. Subiaco took a surprise 1 – nil lead through Jen Chantler before the Redbacks equalised just before half time. The Redbacks were their attacking best with Nicola Williams leading the charge. Sarah Carroll continued her good goalscoring form with Williams and Carol Howes sealing victory. The three points have moved the Redbacks into third position on the table while Subiaco remain in sixth position.
East Fremantle v Beckenham Angels
East Fremantle have remained in second position on the ladder after they managed a hard fought 5 – 2 win over the Beckenham Angels. East Fremantle striker Jessica Hunter scored a brace for the home side and Katarina Jukic, the returning Casey Herbener and Emma Ylias all getting on the board.
The visitors were down players early as they lost goalkeeper Kristy Teschinsky before kick off and their sweeper during the match. Despite that they remained in contest all afternoon only down 3 – 2 before two goals to the home side in the last 10 minutes closed out the match.
Bunbury Forum Force v UWA-Nedlands FC
UWA-Nedlands have continued their good start to the season with a 3 – 0 win over Bunbury Forum Force. Amber Roberts has continued her good season with a brace and Sarah Gunnarson chipped with a goal. The win sees UWA-Nedlands climb into the Top 4 for the first time this season while the Force were unable to back up last week’s performance.
21.5.2010
GLORY GIRLS SEE MATILDAS THROUGH
Three goals in 15 minutes has seen Australia secure a semi final berth with a 3 - 1 win over Korea Republic 3-1 in Group B of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2010 on Friday.
The Matildas dominated the first half with strikers Katie Gill and Lisa DeVanna causing havoc but the Australians had to wait until after the break to rattle Republic's net with quick fire goals to defender Kim Carroll, De Vanna and substitute Sam Kerr. was rewarded for a hard working display.
As expected Australian coach Tom Sermanni rang the changes after the opening day win over Vietnam with the line-up featuring nine changes and they didn't disappoint as they quickly took control of the match. Central midfielder Heather Garriock and De Vanna both went close early before Korea worked their way into the match.
The Koreans had the first real chance in the 22nd minute when a unconvincing Australian clearance from a corner allowed Ji So-yun's to place a ball back into the area causing chaos before it was eventually scrambled off the line.
Surviving that scare Australia should have opened the scoring three minutes later through Garriock. Beating her marker to youngster Teigen Allen's front-post cross, she failed to connect and find the net from a narrow angle.
From that point on the Matildas took control of the match and dominated on the ground and in the area. Despite all the possession, the Australian's could not capitalise with uncharacteristic misses from tall striker Katie Gill from her head and her feet.
On the restart it was much of the same from the Australians as they caused the Korean defence plenty of trouble and six minutes in Elise Kellond-Knight's long distance strike caused a moment of consternation for Korea goalkeeper Kim Jung-mi before it sailed over the crossbar. However, from the resulting corner, some slack marking allowed defender Kim Carroll ghost in at the backpost and tap in Garriock's nicely flighted ball.
Kwon Han-nul almost equalised immediately for the Koreans when she fired in a shot from just outside the area but Matildas goalkeeper and captain Melissa Barbieri was equal to the task as she parried the low strike around the post.
On the hour, a quick counter from the Australians produced the second goal when substitute striker Sarah Walsh's through ball released the super quick De Vanna free. In typical DeVanna style, the West Australian eluded the defence before striking straight at the 'keeper Kim. But the rebound posed no problems as she fired it into the unguarded net.
The Matildas third arrived not long after. With the Koreans failing to deal with a corner substituted Sam Kerr blocked the clearance to nab her first senior Matildas goal with her first touch, much to her delight.
Although down, the Koreans kept pressing and were eventually rewared when with 19 minutes remaining they pulled a goal back with n Kang's header looped over Barbieri.
Korea pressed in the closing stages but the Australia defence repelled all attacks to see them safely through to the semi finals with one game to play.
Australia 3 (Kim Carroll 51’, Lisa De Vanna 58’, Sam Kerr 64’)
Korea Republic 1 (Kang Sun Mi 70’)
Wednesday, 19 May 2010
Chengdu Sports Center Stadium, Chengdu, China
Referee: Sachiko YAMAGISHI
Assistant referees: Takahashi SAORI and Ayukai SHIHO
Fourth official: Pannipar KAMNUENG
Australia starting line-up: 1.Melissa BARBIERI (gk) (c), 4.Clare POLKINGHORNE, 5.Lauren COLTHORPE, 6.Servet UZUNLAR, 7.Heather GARRIOCK, 11.Lisa DE VANNA (22.Sam KERR 63’), 12. Kate GILL, 14.Collette McCallum (15.Sally SHIPARD 78'), 16.Elise KELLOND-KNIGHT, 23.Kim Carroll, 31.Teigen ALLEN (9.Sarah WALSH 56')
Substitutes not used: 18.Lydia WILLIAMS (GK), 3.Karla REUTER, 10.Kylie LEDBROOK, 13.Thea SLATYER (c), 17.Kyah SIMON, 19.Leena KHAMIS, 24.Tameka BUTT, 27.Aivi LUIK, 25.Casey DUMONT (gk)
Yellow cards: Melissa BARBIERI 74’, Kate GILL 88’
Red cards: Nil
Korea Republic starting line-up: 18.Kim Jung Mi (gk), 3.Yu Ji Eun, 6.Jeon GA Eul, 10.Ji SO Yun, 12.Choe Su Jin (15.Lee Jang Mi 59’), 13.Kim Do Yeon, 14.Kwon Hah Nul (7.Yoo Young A 78’), 20.Jung Hae In, 24.Cho So Hyun, 27.Kang Sun Mi, 28.Kim Soo Yun
Substitutes not used: Nil
21.5.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: WEEK 5
This week in the Smarter than Smoking Women's League Subiaco host the out of sorts Northern Redbacks, the Beckenham Angels take on East Fremantle, the newly victorious Bunbury Forum Force and Queens Park host the new ladder leaders Balcatta SC. After a bright start to the season, two draws and a loss have seen the Northern Redbacks campaign sputter to a halt. The concern is not their attack, as they are the second highest scoring side, nor their general play as they continue to play their attractive brand of football but it’s the defence. They concede an average of 2 goals per game and against the better sides, that record is beginning to hurt them and against Subiaco, that will need to tighten up. Apart from the aberration at Coker Park, Subiaco on the other hand, have been one of the tightest defences this season. However, Dan Evans' side will need to find more avenues to goal as that has been their Achilles heel in recent games. Its the age of battle between a good attack and a good defence and it will be interesting to see who wins out.
Its been an indifferent start to the season for the Beckenham Angels. It's safe to say with the potential in the squad the Angels are yet to play their best football. Conversely East Fremantle couldn't have started the season better with 2 consecutive wins first up including the big victory over Balcatta. Since then Tony Carvajal's side has faltered slightly and although they remain the only side yet to taste defeat, they have lost their early momentum with draws in two winnable encounters. Leo Coppens' side is big on firepower but they are yet to deliver on that promise while Carvajal's side can be counted on for consistency but they might need a little bit of a spark if they are to take the title this season.
Last Sunday was a historic day for Bunbury Forum Force with the recently formed and promoted side notching up their first win of the 2010 season courtesy of Kim McCartney and Carissa Wright. As expected the Force started encountered a tough start to the season with a couple of big losses. However, in a match where many expected John O'Gorman's side to suffer, they took it up to Queens Park and displayed why they could become a real nuisance value this season. UWA-Nedlands were another side to have cause for celebrations as they also picked up their first win of the season. Conrad McKelvie's side were finally rewarded for consistency and good football with the tight win and will be looking to build momentum with victory at Hay Park.
Third placed Queens Park host ladder leaders Balcatta SC in this weeks Smarter than Smoking Women's League Match of the Round. Round 4's hard fought victory over the Northern Redbacks have seen Balcatta overtake rivals East Fremantle and claim top spot on the League table. Although the 4 -2 scoreline looked comfortable, it was by no means a vintage performance from the title holders but they eventually overcame their slow start to take the three points. Balcatta will be without the services of Jiami Carley for the near future with the forward going down in a tough tackle last week. However the architects of the victory, the midfield and striker Prue Cormie, will again be on show and a tricky proposition for Queens Park to contain this weekend. Queens Park Thunder will be looking to rebound after last round's disappointing 2 -1 loss to Bunbury Forum Force on their home patch. Up until that match the Thunder had been in good form with the versatile Brittany Woodfin just one of the standouts. Led by goalkeeper Maya Diederichsen and Kylie Woodhouse, the Thunder possess one of the best defences around and against the firepower of Balcatta, they will need to be in top form again. This fixture holds fond memories for the Balcatta as the last time these two sides meet the visitors clinched victory, and the 2009 title, with a resounding 6 - 0 win over Queens Park. Considering the changes in two sides, expect a much tighter contest this time round.
14.5.2010
BALCATTA TOO GOOD OVER REDBACKS
A second half Prue Cormie brace has seen Balcatta SC move to the top of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League courtesy of a 4 – 2 win over the Northern Redbacks.
That result didn’t look likely early with the Northern Redbacks coming out the sharper and three minutes in they created their first chance. Young midfielder Lauren Riley latched onto a through ball, shimmied around Balcatta goalkeeper Helen Carroll only to narrowly miss the target.
A minute later they were on the move again as Sarah Carroll cut back to Riley but she couldn’t get enough purchase on the ball to cause problems.
The Redbacks were eventually rewarded for their pressure in the 5th minute when Riley played in Carroll behind the Balcatta defence. Carroll sprinted into the area, and on an acute angle, slotted it into Helen Carroll’s bottom right corner.
In total control through Shaun Billam, Carroll, Riley and Rebecca Dudek, the visitors pressed to double their advantage in the 10th minute. However, this time Carroll couldn’t squeeze it past the Balcatta custodian.
The home side were struggling to find the ball and any rhythm but their first true foray forward produced the desired result.
Winger Domenica Carbone initiated the attack when her cross into penalty area found the waiting Caitlin Dingle. Dingle’s header was well saved for a corner by Redbacks’ goalkeeper Jennifer Jobling.
Prue Cormie’s corner ball came in at pace and was met by Dingle at the near post before it ricocheted off a Redbacks defender for the equaliser.
The goal woke up the Balcatta side and, as they midfield worked their way into the match, the chances started to pile up.
Dingle had a dip from 20 yards out in the 26th minute that caused a moment of consternation for Jobling. A minute later she went even closer as she met Cormie’s cross with power only to be denied again by the Redbacks’ ‘keeper.
Under pressure, the Redbacks looked to counter and a 29th minute one-two between Carroll and the newly introduced Jessica Byrne saw the latter into space. However her goal ward strike was deflected out for a corner.
Against the run of play, the Redbacks captured the lead on the halftime whistle. Lara Filocamo picked up Lee Kelly’s long ball and worked her way in to the area before pulling back to the penalty area.
The cut back was cleared by the Balcatta defence but only to Sarah Carroll on 18 yards. Her first time volley dipped into the top right corner to give the Redbacks momentum going into the break.
With the advantage, the visitors came out the stronger in the second half and Carroll looked to get her hattrick in the 55th minute when Billam played her in. Inside the area, just enough pressure was exerted by the Balcatta defence to force Carroll to shoot wide.
Four minutes later they rued that miss when the home side equalised. Prue Cormie moved onto Ashleigh Panaia’s nicely weighted ball before lobbing the stranded Jobling to level the scores once again.
On level terms, Balcatta looked to go ahead and Cormie was again in the play when Sara Clapham met her cross from 12 yards out. However, the midfielder’s volley flashed high over the crossbar.
Byrne looked to stem the flow and inject herself more into the game but her 61st minute run ended with a disappointing finish straight at the Balcatta ‘keeper.
The home side eventually went ahead for the first time in the match when Sara Merek’s strike cannoned into the upright and fell fortuitously to Cormie. Under little pressure, Cormie calmly slotted the ball into the corner for her second of the match.
On the restart, Balcatta were on the attack again as Dingle forced Jobling to parry her strike before it was cleared by Amy Knights.
The Redbacks looked to the rally with the injection of the fresh legs of Ebony Drane and Kristy Rimpas. The midfielders worked with Byrne and Dudek to pepper the goals but their long range strikes posed few problems for the Balcatta defence and goalkeeper.
The match was killed off two minutes from the final whistle when Merek’s strike was parried away from Jobling into the post. The waiting Panaia slammed the rebounded ball into the roof of the net to seal victory for Balcatta.
Balcatta 4 OG 15’, Cormie (59’, 66’), Panaia 88’
Northern Redbacks 2 Carroll 5’, 44’
Balcatta: GK. Helen CARROLL, 3. Caitlin DINGLE, 4. Searna MICHAEL, 5. Lyndsey KENYON, 6. Jiami CARLEY, 7. Sarah CLAPHAM, 8. Hazel BARTON, 9. Katy COGHLAN, 10. Allarice KESWELL, 11. Prue CORMIE, 12. Domenica CARBONE, 13. Lauren BUSBY, 14. Ashleigh PANAIA, 15. Sara MEREK, 16. Emily WILLIAMS, 17. Samantha GATENBY
Northern Redbacks: GK. Jennifer JOBLING, 2. Shaun BILLAM, 4. Lara FILICAMO, 5. Courtney OMODEI, 6. Carole HOWES, 7. Sarah CARROLL, 8. Lee KELLY, 10. Kristy RIMPAS, 11. Emily DUNN, 12. Amy KNIGHTS, 13. Rebecca DUDEK, 14. Jessica BYRNE, 15. Lauren RILEY, 16. Ebony DRANE
Queens Park v Bunbury Forum Force
Bunbury Forum Force have notched up their first win of 2010 with a hard fought 2 – 1 win over Queens Park at Coker Park. Queens Park broke through courtesy of Brittany Woodfin but goals to ex-state representative Kim McCartney and Busselton's Carissa Wright gave the south west side their first 3 points of 2010.
The result has had no bearing on the ladder with Queens Park remaining in third position and the Force still at the foot of the table.
East Fremantle v Subiaco AFC
East Fremantle have dropped points for the second time this season when they drew 1 – 1 with Subiaco AFC. Goals by East Fremantle’s Katarina Jukic and Subiaco’s Tina Mash cancelled out each other to see the two sides share the points.
The draw sees the port side drop to second place on the ladder while Subiaco remains in sixth position.
UWA-Nedlands FC v Beckenham Angels
After successive draws, UWA-Nedlands have recorded their first victory for 2010 with a 1 – 0 win over the Beckenham Angels.
The win has seen the two sides swap table positions with UWA-Nedlands jumping to fifth position and the Beckenham Angels falling to seventh.
14.5.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: WEEK 4
This weekend sees the third placed Queens Park host Bunbury Forum Force, the top of the table East Fremantle take on Subiaco AFC, the equally poised UWA-Nedlands FC and the Beckenham Angels clash with the tantalising match of the round being Balcatta hosting Northern Redbacks.
Despite a 2 - 2 draw with the Northern Redbacks, East Fremantle remain on top after 3 weeks and this weekend they look to extend their lead with victory over Subiaco AFC. East Fremantle are nursing a few aching bodies after the bruising encounter with the Redbacks and the port side will be looking for the return of Casey Herbener to line up. Subiaco AFC came away with a 1 - 1 draw against UWA-Nedlands thanks in a large part to the excellent work of goalkeeper Marrisa Pidgeon. These two sides traditionally match up well but significant changes to the Lions squad, East Fremantle would enter this match favourites.
UWA-Nedlands and the Beckenham Angels clash at McGilvray Oval and with only one spot separating the two sides on the ladder this should be a close encounter. UWA-Nedlands would be disappointed with a 1 - 1 draw with Subiaco considering the numerous changes they created through Ailee Taggart, Adele Gardiner and Steph Graskoski. Regardless, they are in good form without notching up a win in 2010. Home ground advantage might just be what they need to get their first 3 points of the year. The Beckenham Angels are also in good form with the only reward a win over Bunbury Forum Force. The new players for the Angels are just starting to get on track with Mel Spillman netting her first goal for the year, although still far from match fitness. The key will be how they hand the UWA-Nedlands strikeforce and if their own force, led by Spillman and Elise Cunningham and the midfield brigade of Danielle Jeans, Lizzie Courtley and Kirby Larsen, fire.
After defeat at the feet of the Northern Redbacks, Queens Park Thunder have regrouped well with two wins on the trot including last week's hard fought victory over the Beckenham Angels. Bunbury Forum Force have played some good football this season with little to show for it. Queens Park go in as favourites but shouldn't expect to have it all their way.
Unlike last season, Balcatta have started 2010 in great form with their only blemish a tight loss to East Fremantle in Round 2. Up from 'Catta have plenty of options including Golden boot favourite Caitlin Dingle, Prue Cormie, Ashleigh Panaia and Jiami Carley as well as quality supply in the midfield through Sara Clapham and Sara Marek. Conversely the Northern Redbacks have had a more subdued start to their season with injuries to key players Lindsay Jobling, Jackie Nellany and Emily Dunn forcing coach Tim Hodgson to reshuffle his line-up. Despite that, the Redbacks are only two points away from top spot with newcomers Jade Willis and Lauren Rilly making an impact in the midfield alongside regulars Nicola Williams and Rebecca Dudek. It will be a big defence job this weekend for the visitors but if they can break even in the middle of the park, it will go a long way to a Redbacks victory.
12.5.2010
GALE FORCE
Jamie Lee Gale started playing football career the way she meant to go. The gifted Beckenham Angels' midfielder took up the sport at the age of 7. "A friend asked me to play in a under 8s team because they were short of players." said Gale. Since her first foray into football her talent has seen her play above her age including the Angels' women's Division 3 and U/17s side as a 13/14-year-old.
A natural attacking midfielder with high work rate, Gale is a coaches dream. Super quick with a big engine, good crossing and finishing ability and her versatility has seen not only a regular in Leo Coppens' first team but also selected in various state squads including the 2009 silver medal winning State School Girls side and the 2010 State U17s squad. But all the training and various coaching is not always easy. "I find it difficult playing in different squads and having to adjust to playing to a different game plan that the coaches have."
Like any young footballer, there is still plenty of scope of improvement and coach Leo Coppens and the Beckenham Angels a part of that process. "I am working on dribbling past defenders, strengthening my weaknesses and improving my confidence." said the 16 year old. "Everyone is easy to get on with and we all play as a team and there are no individuals."
Football pitch is not the only green arena Jamie-Lee loves. She is also a top level women's lawn bowler and unsurprisingly has also excelled. Gale has been a member of the State Junior squad since 11, picked up gold (fours), silver (triples) and bronze (singles) at the Australian Junior Bowls Championships as well as at age 14 she became the youngest Gosnells Women’s Singles Champion in 2008.
But for all that it seems football is number one for the moment. "Combining the two sports at a high level is very difficult to do so I have stopped playing other sports (except cross-country) to focus on my football. I aim to play for Women’s Glory and hopefully the Matildas."
QUICK 5IVE
Adidas or Nike? Both
Favourite Footballer? Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
If you could visit any football stadium in the world, which would it be? Anfield (Liverpool)
Favourite team to beat in the Women's Premier League? All the top teams!
The hardest thing about football is....to play well consistently every week
12.5.2010
MATILDAS TAKE ON ASIA
While all the attention was on the announcement of the Socceroos World Cup squad on Tuesday, the Matildas quietly flew out for AFC Women's Asian Cup due to kick off this Wednesday in China. On board were WA's contingent of Matildas in Sam Kerr, Lisa DeVanna, Katie Gill and Vice Captain Collette McCallum.
In speaking with Matildas Head Coach Tom Sermanni before take off, he was pleased with the eventual selection of the squad. " I think we have a good blend of youth and experience in the squad. As in most squads the last 3/4 players are always the most difficult selection decisions." said Sermanni. "The general mood is upbeat and positive. There is a lot of enthusiasm and energy among our players and this has rubbed off on the staff as well."
Australia starts their campaign with Vietnam this Wednesday but with a couple of injury concerns there is still plenty to be done. Speedy striker Sarah Walsh is a concern with 27 having until May 17 to prove she has recovered from minor knee surgery a month ago. If not, back up Central Coast Mariners striker and Westfield W-League 2009 Player of the Year and Golden Boot winner Michelle Heyman has made the trip and is on stand by to her delight. “Two years ago I never would have thought I could be a Westfield Matilda let alone be going to the (AFC Women’s) Asian Cup,” said Heyman. “It really is a dream come true.”
Sermanni and his staff have their objectives well though out and believe they can implement them successfully. "Essentially we'll approach the campaign in 3 stages. Firstly, to qualify from the group; secondly, to qualify for the 2011 World Cup and thirdly, try to win the Asian Cup." And to achieve those objectives Sermanni is well aware of who will need to fire. " I think there are several key players such as [Lisa] DeVanna, [Heather] Garriock, [Collette] McCallum, [Katie] Gill and [Sarah] Walsh need to show their experience and quality. They can all win us matches."
AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2010 Details
Game 1: Australia v Vietnam - Wednesday, 19 May 2010 - Chengdu Sports Center, China - Kick-off: 5.00pm AEST, 3.00pm WST (Televised on ABC1 / ABCHD)
Game 2: Australia v Korea Republic - Friday, 21 May 2010 - Chengdu Sports Center, China - Kick-off: 5.00pm AEST, 3.00pm WST (Televised on ABC1 / ABCHD)
Game 3: Australia v China - Sunday, 23 May 2010 - Chengdu Sports Center, China - Kick-off: 6.00pm AEST, 4.00pm WST (Televised on ABC2)
9.5.2010
SUBIACO AND UWA SHARE THE POINTS
Two first half penalties saw Subiaco AFC and UWA-Nedlands shared the points in their 1 - 1 draw at Rosalie Park.
In windy and cold conditions the home side adapted the better when Brittany Dyer-Smith put in Rosie Cocker in the 5 th minute. Cocker’s shot from 10 yards was well parried away by new UWA-Nedlands goalkeeper Linda Kavamburq for a corner.
Despite that early scare, UWA-Nedlands eventually settled into the contest with the two midfields battling fiercely for dominance. The breakthrough eventually came for UWA-Nedlands in the 23 rd minute when Lorian Woolgav was roughly brought down in the area. Striker Amber Roberts stepped up and calmly converted the penalty for her second of the season.
On top on the scoreboard, the visitors looked to get on top in general play. Two minutes later Ailee Taggart hit up Stephanie Graskoski on the wing but her strike flashed wide of the upright.
Chances for UWA-Nedlands started to come think and fast with Graskoski returning the favour to set up Taggart in the 33 rd minute. However, Taggart’s effort produced the same result as her strike slammed into the cross bar.
Three minutes later the striker beat the offside trap and latched onto Adele Gardiner’s through ball. In space, Taggart blasted high to the groans of her supporters.
Undaunted by the waves of attack the Kitty Foley led Subiaco defence held firm and the midfield through Sonja Felderhof, Dyer-Smith and Gabby Walker-Ortega eventually started to break even.
The effort was rewarded just minutes before half time when Dyer-Smith was tripped in the area and awarded a penalty. Walker-Ortega dispatched the penalty to level the scores going into interval.
At the restart Brooke Tillemans and Flo Tawns took early control for Subiaco but the first chance of the half came to the visitors in the 54 th minute. Earning a corner, Woolgav’s in-swinging corner forced a good save from Pidgeon with the ‘keeper tipping the ball onto the crossbar and away from danger.
While getting plenty of the ball through Walker-Ortega, Dyer-Smith, Felderhof and Tillemans, the home side were unable to create clear cut chances. Proven goalscorer Janine Gustavino was denied space as she was locked down by the UWA-Nedlands defence.
UWA-Nedlands squandered a golden opportunities to take all points. First when Adele Gardiner’s inspired run and strike from 12 yards was tipped away by Pidgeon.
The final chance came in the 84th minute with Sarah Gunnarson finding herself one-on-one with the quickly advancing Pidgeon. Brilliant all day, the goalkeeper again denied UWA-Nedlands by getting a touch on the ball and away from goal.
Subiaco AFC 1 Walker-Ortego 41’
UWA-Nedlands 1 Roberts 23’
Subiaco AFC: GK. Marrisa PIDGEON, 2.Tash KIRTON, 4. Jen CHANTLER, 5. Kitty FOLEY, 6. Meg CONNOP, 7. Alex CASSIE, 8. Kelly BAXTER, 9. Janine GUSTAVINO, 10. Gabby WALKER-ORTEGA, 11. Sonja FELDERHOF, 12. Brooke TILLEMANS, 14. Brittany DYER-SMITH, 15. Flo TAWNS, 16. Rosie COCKER,18. Jen MAGDALENICH
UWA-Nedlands: GK. Linda KAVAMBURQ, 2. Bethany WILLIAMS, 3. Emma SMITH, 5. Lorian WOOLGAV, 6. Lara JONES, 8. Amber ROBERTS, 10. Adele GARDINER, 12. Brooke FLETCHER, 18. Vanessa SAKALIDIS, 19. Stephanie GRASKOSKI, 24. Lauren McLAWRENCE, 26. Sarah GUNNARSON, 29. Bornie WILLIAMS, 31. Ailee TAGGART, 99. Alanna GALLATZY
Beckenham Angels v Queens Park
Despite Mel Spillman getting on the scoreboard, Queens Park have continued their dominance over local rivals the Beckenham Angels with a 2 – 1 win. The hard fought win is Thunder’s second on the trot and moves Queens Park into third position meanwhile the Angels remain just outside the Top 4.
East Fremantle v Northern Redbacks
East Fremantle have dropped points for the first time this season when they were held to a 2 – 2 by the Northern Redbacks. Midfielders Lauren Riley and Nicola Williams ensured the visitors took a point from the encounter. Despite the draw East Fremantle remain on top of the League by a solitary point while the Northern Redbacks cling to the Top 4.
Bunbury Forum Force v Balcatta SC
Balcatta returned to winning ways with a 7 – 1 defeat of Bunbury Forum Force. After a frustrating day out last Sunday striker Caitlin Dingle was a amongst the goals with her first League hattrick with able back up from Ashleigh Panina (x2), Prue Cormie and Searna Michael. Bunbury are still looking for their first points of the season while Balcatta reclaim second position on the League table.
7.5.2010
WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW: WEEK 3
Plenty of great matches are on show this weekend as Round 3 of the Women's Premier League kicks off. Subiaco host UWA-Nedlands at Rosalie Park; hostilities resume as local rivals the Beckenham Angels and Queens Park; the Northern Redbacks look to bounce back against the top of the table East Fremantle and Balcatta takes the road trip to meet Bunbury Forum Force.
This week's match of the round sees the new Subiaco AFC host a resurgent UWA-Nedlands at Rosalie Park. Subiaco AFC enters the 2010 season with a new coach, squad and football outlook. With only a handful of players from last season's squad still running around, Coach Dan Evans has had the task of assembling a very competitive unit. The Lions possess a strong defensive unit lead by goalkeeper Marissa Pidgeon and marshaled by centre back Kitty Foley and former NTC squad member Jen Chantler. The Lions had the best possible start to their season with a 1 - 0 win over the newly-promoted Bunbury Forum Force in week one but didn't receive reward for effort when they were defeated by Queens Park last week. For the Lions to double their points on Sunday, a big effort will be required from their midfield and in particular Sonja Felderhof, Meg Connop and the US-bound Brittany Dyer-Smith.
UWA-Nedlands started off their season with a defeat at the hands of East Fremantle but bounced back well with a big draw against the much-fancied Northern Redbacks. In a tough match UWA-Nedlands displayed their fighting qualities with the side coming back several times throughout the match and coach Conrad McKelvie will be looking for that same resilience this weekend. UWA-Nedlands pride themselves on team football and that will once again be on show. However, if they are to defeat the Lions, Amber Roberts and the returning Stephanie Graskoski will need to be at the forefront. This should be a tight and exciting encounter between two sides ready to play entertaining total football.
Other Smarter than Smoking Women's Premier League Fixtures:
Local neighbours the Beckenham Angels and Queens Park face off at Mills Park for one of the great Premier League grudge matches. Beckenham had a good win over Bunbury Forum Force last weekend while Queens Park brushed aside Subiaco. The last two encounters between these two sides have been tight and tense with little between them and this Sunday shouldn’t be anything different.
Northern Redbacks and East Fremantle were two sides with differing luck on the weekend. The Northern Redbacks were unable to hold out a UWA-Nedlands and had to be happy with sharing the points. Meanwhile the top of the table East Fremantle rode their luck early before overrunning Balcatta away from home. The last time these two sides met the Northern Redbacks defeated East Fremantle to deny them the 2009 title so expect East Fremantle to be looking for a little revenge!
Balcatta are looking to bounce back after an unlucky defeat at home to East Fremantle. Lisa Tana's side were dominant in the first half before running out of steam. Meanwhile Bunbury were unable to hold out the Beckenham Angels at home and now face one of the biggest test in women's football.
5.5.2010
WAIS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL PROGRAM: A YEAR ON
Over the last couple of years the pathway for elite female footballers in Western Australia has become more defined with the NTC, high performance and last year saw the initiation of the WAIS Women's Football Program. The program was designed to maximise WA representation in national squads and national teams and Perth Glory coach John Gibson has been installed as the Women's Football Head Coach to help achieve those aims.
"The major benefit is the coaching and training the athletes receive. WAIS also offers a range of services to athletes as prioritised on the basis of the athlete scholarship tier and needs identified by their coach." said Gibson. "Services may include gym access, sports psychology, performance analysis, physiotherapy, self-massage, physiology, nutrition, career and education guidance."
There are currently nine scholarship holders with a mix of current stars, emerging stars and names of the future. They include internationals Lisa De Vanna, Collette McCallum, Katie Gill; emerging international Sam Kerr and potential Internationals Shannon May, Marianna Tabain, Jaymee Gibbons, Nadine Rechichi, Sadie Lawrence. This is complimented by a feeder system and partnerships with the women's High Performance Unit.
However Gibson and his team are not only charged with attending to the elite footballers and scholarship holders but to the greater women's football program. "The role of also includes raising the standard of coaching in WA through involvement in various underpinning programs from grassroots to high performance, providing a daily training environment and developing a cultural & environment in WA which is on par with the major states."
Just a year in, the program has raised the awareness of is already starting to see results with four WAIS footballers recently selected for in the Matildas Asian Cup squad, improved W-League performances in Season 2 and indirectly the results of the Football West U13 girls in the national championships. results at Nationals recently. Also the increased interest / awareness & involvement in elite female's football pathway.
4.5.2010
TRAINING SCHEDULE
The athletes compete as the Football West High Performance Unit Women's team in the Harvey Fresh Premier League Boys 14 competition on Sundays. The training program at present is Tuesday: 5.15 @ McGilvray Oval; Wednesday 5.15 @ McGilvray Oval; Thursday 5.15 @ Vasto; Saturday 10. 30am @ Gibney Reserve
4.5.2010
FILOCAMO READY TO FIRE
Last season Northern Redbacks' striker Lara Filocamo produced her best season yet with the northern club and was rewarded with her greatest achieved to date, the golden boot award which she shared with teammate and strike partner. It was great achievement for a player who, in football terms, started later than most.
"I always considered playing football when I was younger. But having my three brothers play soccer my parents couldn't juggle taking all of us, so I missed out." said the striker. "I started playing competition soccer for my high school (Balcatta Senior High) in Year 8 and when I was 15 I started competitive football, for Balcatta SC in the women's 16's premier team."
Despite a good first season, Filocamo suffered the fate of many young female footballers when she went down with a serious knee injury which saw her out for a year. On her return, Filocamo jumped ship to Balcatta's local rival the Northern Redbacks. "The first time I started playing under Tim [Hodgson], is the first time I excelled in my football." said Filocamo. "Tim is a very good coach, and he has boosted every aspect of my knowledge and skills. He not only boosts my confidence but the teams confidence and I am so happy and proud to have Tim as my coach."
Under Hodgson Filocamo has become a vital cog in the Redbacks machine with her dribbling, ball control, evasive skills, aggression and instinct for goal. But to make it to the next level, she is well aware that there areas in her game that need tightening. "I need to work on my fitness and my shooting. I need to push myself even further to get even better skills. I like dribbling so I don't take the time to concentrate on shooting."
The Redbacks have been a strong side for many years in are on track once again to challenge for the 2010 title. Filocamo says that is due to the culture of squads picked and the culture of the club. "I like the fact that we are all confident and a hard working bunch. we all have very impressive skills within ourselves and work to our own abilities. this makes me enjoy being apart of such a wonderful team and club."
"My goals are always to do my best in every game that I play. I do want to play for the Glory Women at one stage and then the Matildas one day. I believe if you never give up and focus on what you want to achieve present or future, you can make it!"
QUICK 5IVE
Adidas or Nike? Adidas
Favourite Footballer (Male or Female, past or present): Lisa De Vanna
If you could visit any football stadium in the world, which would it be: Goodison Park
Favourite team to beat in the Women's Premier League: Balcatta
The hardest thing about football is....Not to give away a free kick
2.5.2010
EAST FREMANTLE TAKE POINTS
East Fremantle have survived a first half onslaught to regroup and defeat Balcatta SC 1 – 0 courtesy of striker Jessica Hunter’s 49th minute winner.
Balcatta were in ominous form from the whistle with their formidable midfield quickly clicking into gear and in the second minute they fashioned their first chance. In form striker Caitlin Dingle played in Domenica Carbone on the left wing but her strike was well picked up by East Fremantle goalkeeper Morgan Cox.
Five minutes later they were on the move again with Jiami Carley releasing Caitlin Dingle on the left wing. Dingle cut inside marker Annique Keisler only to shoot inches wide of the mark.
The East Fremantle defence had little respite as a minute later Allarice Keswell put in Dingle again, this time on the right. With an alert Cox closing down, Dingle’s strike slammed into the far upright before rebounding away from goals to the groan of their supporters.
With Dingle proving a handful for the slight Keisler, the stronger Rebecca Baumgartner was moved onto the striker with little effect early on. In the 12th minute Dingle put Carley into space and again Carley’s shot also was denied by the inside of the post before being quickly cleared off the line by Keisler.
With Keswell proving too strong and experienced for youngster Emily Murray, the wingers were switched with instant reward for East Fremantle. Moved to the left, Renae Rendell played in Katarina Jukic. Jukic turned her marker to release Jessica Hunter but Hunter’s first time strike sailed over the cross bar.
Two minutes later Balcatta squandered another opportunity with Dingle again slipping in behind the defence. However, the striker was again unable to beat Cox with the ‘keeper producing a timely save with her legs.
East Fremantle reshuffled their side and backline and managed to stem the tide for a time but Balcatta kept coming. Marek skillfully opened up the play in the 27th minute before skipping past two defenders. However, she followed the trend of her teammates, as she too struck wide.
Five minutes from the half time interval Keswell and Ashley Panaia’s give and go gave the latter some space but Panaia’s near post strike was parried away by the impressive Cox.
Having absorbed Balcatta’s best shots in the first half, East Fremantle came out in the second half and displayed why the led the League for most of 2009.
Ines Salgado proved a spark and in the 49th minute she flipped a ball in the path of Jessica Hunter’s run. Hunter’s strike crashed into the oncoming Balcatta ‘keeper Helen Carroll before ricocheting into the open net to the delight of the traveling supporters.
Balcatta quickly regrouped and two minutes later Dingle had a chance to equalise but under pressure from her marker Baumgartner, she was unable to keep the strike down.
The visitors slowly began to win their share of the midfield ball through Jukic, Salgado and Emma Ylias. That midfield worked in the 59th minute to put through Nicole Ritchie on the right wing but Ritchie could only hit the side netting. Ten minutes later Hunter was again on the burst with a 20 metre run but her finish proved no problem for Carroll.
Looking for the equaliser, Carley and Erin Walsh worked the ball around the penalty area before hitting up Marek who blazed wide of the target. Five minutes later Clapham played through Carley whose swerving strike from 20 yards was punched onto the cross bar by Cox for a corner.
In the final two minutes ‘keeper Helen Carroll denied East Fremantle a larger victory as she first smothered Ritchie’s attempt at goal in a one-on-one situation and then cramping Rendell’s strike as she was clear on goal.
At the final whistle, one goal was enough to give East Fremantle a famous win and leave them the only side with maximum points in 2010.
Balcatta SC 0
East Fremantle 1 Jessica Hunter 49’
Balcatta SC: GK. Helen CARROLL, 2. Chelsea EVANS, 3. Caitlin DINGLE, 4. Searna MICHAEL, 5. Lindsey KENYON, 6. Jiami CARLEY, 7. Sarah MAREK, 9. Katy COGHLAN, 10. Allarice KESWELL, 12. Domenica CARBONE, 13. Lauren BUSBY, 14 Ashley PANAIA, 15. Sara CLAPHAM, 16. Emily WILLIAMS, 17. Erin WALSH, 18. Emilia GOLEK,
East Fremantle: GK. Morgan COX, 2. Sarah PAULL, 3. Annique KEISLER, 4. Sarah HUGHES, 5. Renae RENDELL, 6. Antonia JUKIC, 7. Emily MURRAY, 8. Emma YLIAS, 10. Katarina JUKIC, 11. Ashlyn MILLER, 12. Rebecca BAUMGARTNER, 13. Ines SALGADO, 14. Taylor FRANCESCONI, 15. Nicole RITCHIE, 16. Casey HERBENER, 17. Jessica HUNTER
29.4.2010
WOMENS PREMIER LEAGUE IN PREVIEW
There are four tight clashes scheduled for this weekend with the match of the round picking itself; Balcatta SC v East Fremantle.
This is an intriguing encounter between last season's Top 2 sides. Balcatta are the undisputed title favourites for 2010 and their 7 - 1 defeat of the Beckenham Angels in Round 1 only further firming them as favourites. East Fremantle have had an up and down start to the season with injuries stifling their pre-season progress with injuries to Sarah Hughes, Casey Herbener and Anna Sweetingham in particular hurting their cause. Striker Caitlin Dingle has a slight strain for Balcatta and East Fremantle are waiting to see if midfielder Herbener will return for this clash after missing Round their Round 1 win over UWA. East Fremantle have the wood over Balcatta in recent League fixtures, but the last time they met Balcatta turned the tables with a 3 - 1 in the Night Series semi final. Balcatta goes in favourites but don't be surprised if the visitors get something out of this game.
The Queens Park v Subiaco AFC fixture puts together two sides who couldn't be more different coming into 2010. Queens Park are full of heavy duty experience all around the park while Subiaco is a young and unknown quantity. Subiaco found a way to win with a 1 - 0 win over Bunbury Forum Force while Queens Park would be disappointed in their 3 - 1 loss to the Redbacks. Stacey Learmont has a quad tear and will be touch and go but in her absence midfielder Gemma Langley did a superb job of controlling and directing midfield traffic. At home Queens Park and difficult to beat and the young Subi side might find that out the hard way.
It was a good start to the season for the Northern Redbacks with victory over Queens Park but coach Tim Hodgson wasn't completely pleased with the performance of his girls. Rightly so, they took a while to get into the game but once they did it was an impressive performance by their new recruits, Shaun Billam was fantastic defensively while Jade Willis pulled the midfield strings beautifully. The Redbacks are still missing Lindsay Jobling and Jackie Nellany but their replacements are more than performing ably. UWA-Nedlands would be disappointed in their first round loss to East Fremantle. After playing some good football pre-season, their couldn't get into the game and conceding at regular intervals ensured they would not get a rhythm going. A later goal by Amber Roberts would give them some confidence and it should be another entertaining encounter against a team Conrad's girls match up well against.
The Beckenham Angels are the first side to make the League road trip to meet the Bunbury Forum Force. The Angels were outplayed by Balcatta on the weekend but a goal by captain Danielle Jeans will give them something to work with. It will take time for the Angels to click considering the large influx of new players. Bunbury Forum Force had a tight loss to Subiaco and back on home turf John O'Gorman would be looking for a first up victory. Close pre-season fixtures for these two sides indicate that we can expect the same. On home ground Bunbury Forum Force would go in favourites but again a win for the Angels would not be unexpected.
29.4.2010
THE NEW UWA-NEDLANDS
Located at the UWA Sports Park, over the past five years UWA-Nedlands have undergone significant changes. These changes are beyond the merger and name change that occurred at the end of last year and could see UWA-Nedlands emerging as a significant player in women's football.
The general perception of UWA, and one which I am guilty of perpetuating, is that the club is a University only club and UWA-Nedlands Coach Conrad McKelvie was quick to dissuade me of this notion.
"Five years ago, before I took over, it may have been the case of seeing huge numbers going in and out the door of University teams each year in the old Division One." said McKelvie. "But since I've taken over we've taken our time to build our squad up. Each year has been a better squad than the previous year and this year is no exception."
UWA-Nedlands are certainly building up to become a more than competitive premier side with stability being one of the keys. Last season their player turnover was probably the lowest in the League with only four players moving on including stalwart Penny Rinaldi (retired), Lynne McGowan (stress fractures), Frankie Simmons and Cathy Ricciardone (work commitments).
Their replacements have been more than worthy and include ex-East Fremantle midfielder Jamie Blake, Queenslander Kim Sedgwick, Ailee Taggart, 'keeper Linda Kavumbura and the returning Stephanie Graskoski and Claire Meaton. "We have only recruited three girls from UWA this year into our premier squad. A majority of our players have joined the squad either from our Division Two team last year or from other clubs."
McKelvie's imprint can be found all over the women's program with the side transforming into a competitive unit that, at times, play an attractive brand of football with their fluid passing game. "We have the goal to eventually be the best club in the state but we're happy to take a slow and measured approach to building up our club."
In 2010 UWA-Nedlands have added depth and quality to the side supported by 6 senior women's football teams (equal highest with Subiaco). An added facet to the club has been the junior sides gained in the merger with local neighbours Nedlands. "We've now had a merger and we have juniors which we hope will stem the past flow of players to clubs like Subiaco. There are already a number of promising juniors in the U13s, U15s and U17s teams that we hope will step up to the Premier team in a few years time."
It's a long way from the Division 1 and 4 teams in 2005.
24.4.2010
NORTHERN REDBACKS v QUEENS PARK
The Northern Redbacks have started their 2010 campaign positively with a 3 – 1 victory over Queens Park courtesy of striker Lara Filicamo’s hat trick.
Proceedings started with a minute silence in observance of ANZAC Day before the day’s combatants took to the pitch. The early minutes were a tense affair with neither side able to get into any rhythm to the frustration of their coaches.
The visitor’s fashioned the first half chance seven minutes in when lead up play between midfielders Gemma Langley and Tisha Bohne spotted up Lindsay Easton. Under pressure from the Redbacks defence, Easton was only able to find the side netting.
It took twenty minutes for the Northern Redbacks to eventually found their feet and create their first opportunity. Midfielder Jade Willis linked up with Lauren Rilly at the top of the area. Youngster Rilly put Nicola Williams into space but her strike was well smothered by Kylie Woodhouse.
Four minutes later the home side had the lead. Winger Sarah Carroll started the attack when she found Willis in the centre. Willis put through Rilly whose blocked shot ricocheted to Lara Filicamo. The goal open, Filicamo had no problem slotting the rebounded ball past Queens Park ‘keeper Maya Diederichsen.
Dominating midfield possession through Williams, Carroll and Willis, the Northern Redbacks picked up the pace. Willis was again in the play in the 33rd minute as she played in Filicamo. The striker’s diagonal ball to Williams gave her chance on goal only to be well stopped by Diederichsen from 12 yards out.
Under pressure and conceding the midfield battle, Queens Park had a rare foray forward in the 38th minute when Langley released Sam Sparks on the left wing. Sparks in turn found new recruit Ellis Glanfield on the top of the area but her strike lacked the power to trouble Jennifer Jobling.
Glanfield was in not long after when the Redbacks’ defence misjudged the bounce from Diederichsen’s long goal kick. In behind the defence, the opportunity came to nought as Glanfield’s cross to the back post was unable to be meet by any Queens Park attacker.
Half time pending, the Redbacks made one final push to double their advantage. In space, Filicamo outmanoeuvred her marker before setting up Carol Howes. Howes’ first time strike forced Diederichsen into a brilliant fingertip save to deny the home side and keep the half-time deficit to just one.
Minutes after the re-start the home side finally gained reward for possession. After pick pocketing Langley in the midfield, Jess Byrne’s went on a central run before releasing Filicamo on the left wing. Under no pressure, Filicamo cut it inside before lobbing Diederichsen from 10 yards.
In control of proceedings, the Redbacks went for the knockout blow in the 65th minute with Willis again pulling the strings as she supplied Carol Howes. Howes’ back post cross hit up Rilly but Rilly was unable to keep her shot down.
Despite the deficit, Queens Park continued to fight and were almost back in the game through Brittany Woodfin. On a venture forward in the 71st minute, Woodfin placed her shot over an advancing Jobling only to see it cleared off the line by a back tracking Shaun Billiam.
Kicking up the intensity, Clare Dunn’s strike from distance forced a diving save from Jobling. The breakthrough for the visitors finally came in the 79th minute with Langley again the architect. Midfield interchange between Langley and Gordon finished with Gordon chipping over Jobling to give hope to visitors.
Headed for the first time in the game, the Redbacks were quick to response two minutes later. Williams released Filicamo into space but, one-on-one with the striker, Diederichsen pulled off a brilliant save with her feet.
Given a reprieve, Queens Park hit back hard with several late chances. Firstly, Glanfield’s shot from 20 yards out forced a reflex save from Jobling and then Langley chanced her luck from 18 yards coming close to earning the visitors a point.
In spite of the attacked, the door was slammed shut when a swift counterattack from the Redbacks culminated in Filicamo bagging her hat trick and sealing the game for the home side.
Northern Redbacks 3 Filicamo (24’, 49’, 90’)
Queens Park 1 Gordon 79’
Northern Redbacks: GK. Jennifer JOBLING, 2. Shaun BILLAM, 3. Lara FILICAMO, 4. Nicola WILLIAMS, 6. Thia EASTMAN, 7. Sarah CARROLL, 8. Leigh KELLY, 9. Courtney OMODEI, 10. Jade WILLIS, 12. Amy KNIGHTS, 13. Rebecca DUDEK, 14. Jessica BYRNE, 15. Lauren RILLY, 16. Carol HOWES
Queens Park: GK. Maya DIEDERICHSEN, 3. Lindsay EASTON, 4. Sam SPARKS, 5. Tisha BOHNE, 6. Gemma LANGLEY, 7. Kylie WOODHOUSE, 8. Stacey LEARMONT, 10. Nikki CAMPBELL, 12. Cassandra WOODCOCK, 13. Ellis GLANFIELD, 15. Clare DUNN, 17. Brittany WOODFIN, 18. Monique GORDON, 21. Danelle CORNISH, 28. Shea HEINSEN
24.4.2010
EAST FREMANTLE v UWA-NEDLANDS
Last year’s runners up East Fremantle have made a solid start to the season as they defeated UWA-Nedlands 4 – 1 at Wauhop Park. The East Fremantle side created many opportunities throughout the match with attacking midfielder Katarina Jukic picking up a hat trick and winger Sarah Hughes also scoring in a successful return from injury.
24.4.2010
BECKENHAM ANGELS v BALCATTA SC
The defending women’s league champions Balcatta have continued their night series winning form with a comprehensive 7 – 1 over the Beckenham Angels.
24.4.2010
SUBIACO AFC v BUNBURY FORUM FORCE
Subiaco AFC have put behind them a tumultuous off season to kick off the 2010 season with victory. In a tight contest a goal from Janine Gustavino was all that separated the sides at the end of 90 minutes.
23.4.2010
ON THE PATH TO GLORY
Perth Glory's Collette McCallum, Lisa DeVanna, Katie Gill and Samantha Kerr were today named in the Westfield Matildas 23 player squad who will travel to Chengdu, China, to compete in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2010.
The squad was selected by Head Coach Tom Sermanni following several training camps in Canberra and international friendlies with neighbours New Zealand and Asian powerhouse DPR Korea. As expected the squad is a mixture of youth and vast experience with custodian Melissa Barbieri captaining the side and Glory's McCallum as vice captain.
With a difficult Group B consisting of China, South Korea and Vietnam, Sermanni's initial goals are simple. "First and foremost, we would like to make it to the last four. If we can make it, we will try our best to make it to the final." said the Head Coach. “The World Cup route through Asia is extremely difficult as four of the top 15 teams in the World come from this zone. This will be a tough test but the squad we have assembled continues to surprise me with how well they have gelled and I’m sure they will cause some surprises next month in China.”
Final preparations for the Asian Cup will get underway on the Gold Coast on May 4 prior to their 11 May departure for China. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2010 runs from 19-30 May in China.
WESTFIELD MATILDAS SQUAD: Collette McCallum (Perth Glory) Lisa De Vanna (Perth Glory/Washington Freedom (USA)), Heather Garriock (Sydney FC/Fortuna Hjørring (Denmark)), Kate Gill (Perth Glory/LdB Malmö (Sweden)), Elise Kellond-Knight (Brisbane Roar), Samantha Kerr (Perth Glory), Leena Kharmis (Sydney FC), Kylie Ledbrook (Sydney FC), Aivi Luik (Brisbane Roar), Clare Polkinghorne (Brisbane Roar), Sally Shipard (Canberra United), Thea Slatyer (Canberra United), Kyah Simon (Sydney FC), Karla Reuter (Brisbane Roar), Servet Unzular (Sydney FC), Sarah Walsh (Sydney FC/Boston Breakers (USA)), Lydia Williams (Canberra United (GK)).
22.4.2010
PLAYER PROFILE OF THE WEEK: CAITLIN DINGLE (BALCATTA)
In her short time in the Smarter than Smoking Women's League, Balcatta striker Caitlin Dingle has already made her presence felt. With her hattrick in last Sunday's Night Series Grand Final, including the winning goal, Balcatta's newest recruit has already signalled that she will be a player to watch in 2010.
Like many players Dingle started her career young and has been involved in the sport ever since. ".I started playing when I was just five years old for a few clubs in Atlanta, Georgia in America because my little brothers were playing and doing well. I ended up falling in love with the sport and haven't stopped playing ever since."
Her love of the game and talent has seen the striker play representative football in Olympic development squads, regional and state teams. Three very successful high school football seasons saw Dingle granted with a University scholarship at just 16 at the University of Georgia. After two seasons she moved onto Kennesaw State University where she made her greatest impact. Her three years at Kennesaw State garnered recognition as one of the leading forwards in the American College system.
As well as university success on the field, Dingle also had success off the field that has seen her head to Perth for completion of her Masters in Communications Studies at UWA. Lucky for Balcatta, she also wanted to continue her football. "I did a bit of research on local clubs, and there were a couple that stood out." said Dingle. "The girls on the team were initially so welcoming and happy to have a new face, that I really felt it was a good place to be and decided I didn't need to look at any other clubs."
Despite her vast experience, she believes that she has plenty to learn from the Australian game. "Its more about reading the play and creating in technical ways than the physical aspects. In America soccer seems very much about speed and strength, and less about technicalities. I think it's going to be good for me to combine the two different styles in my game."
Caitlin Dingle will be in Australia for the next two years and if the first couple of weeks are any indication, she will become a familiar name quickly. "To be honest, all I want is to play soccer to the highest of my ability, get my Master's degree, make some friends, and just enjoy life. I'm trying to make the most of my experience here, and use my time wisely, because I'm afraid it will go too fast!
Final words: On coach Lisa Tana: "Lisa is also a really great part about playing for Balcatta. She's got a great balance of respect, motivation, and relatability that allows her to get her point across in a very professional but casual manner, if that makes sense."
On Balcatta Soccer Club: "It's a good atmosphere. The girls on the team are there to be social and have fun, but when the time comes to compete, everyone is serious and in it for the same purpose."
On Perth: "I love everything! It sounds like such a stereotype, but Australians have such a laid-back attitude when it comes to just about everything, and I'm really starting to understand and enjoy it. I love the beaches, and I also really love the city."
18.4.2010
DINGLE INSPIRES BALCATTA TO PRE-SEASON GLORY (by Ann Odong)
Balcatta claimed the Women’s Night Series trophy with a dramatic 4-3 win over Northern Redbacks in this evening’s final at Coker Park. A goal three minutes from the end by Caitlin Dingle completed the striker’s hat-trick and secured her team a pulsating victory. The stage was sent for a thrilling finale to the pre-season tournament as the teams entered the game in excellent form, and the opening minutes didn’t disappoint. Prue Cormie and Dingle fashioned the first chance on 13 minutes with the former playing in her strike partner whose shot flashed narrowly wide. The Redbacks first meaningful attack eight minutes produced the lead, Sarah Carroll’s driving run down the right taking her past two opponents before crossing for Lara Filicamo to send the ball into Jamie Carley’s net.
Cormie then teed up Hazel Barton but her shot from the edge of the 18-yard box was high. That warning was not heeded and on 25 minutes an exchange of passes through midfield ended at the feet of Dingle, who slipped in behind the defence to fire in the equaliser. The Redbacks continued to prod and probe at their opponents defences and on 33 minutes Filicamo streamed down the left and cut inside before blasting in from an acute angle to give her side the lead. Dingle went close again within minutes, forcing Jobling to dive right and parry her shot away for a corner. Jobling put her body on the line not long after to prevent Dingle getting off a shot from close-range.
Balcatta picked up after the break where they’d left off with Cormie’s long-range attempt dipping over the crossbar. Their persistence was rewarded on 62 minutes when midfielder Sarah Clapham curled the ball past the diving ‘keeper from distance to being the teams level. Two minutes later Clapham’s perfectly weighted pass put Dingle into space with the striker slotting in to put Balcatta in front for the first time. Although stunned by this turn of events, the Redbacks stepped things up a notch through Sarah Carroll, Jess Byrne and captain Rebecca Dudek.
Parity was restored for the first time on 65 minutes, newcomer Lauren Rilly picking out Carroll who struck truly to set up an exhilarating finale. Carroll’s audacious attempt from 18-metres looked to have put the Redbacks back in front, however, it was only the side netting that was disturbed. Entering the final minutes it was Balcatta who took control as Dingle headed high Sarah Merek’s 77th minute free-kick. Six minutes later Jobling forced Ashley Panaia to strike wide. The deadlock was broken three minutes from full-time when Dingle stuck her foot out to meet a back post cross and send the Balcatta supporters into raptures.
16.4.2010
RIVALRIES RE-IGNITE IN NIGHT SERIES FINAL
Neighbourhood rivals Balcatta SC and Northern Redbacks once again go head to head this Sunday in the resumption of one of women’s football’s great rivalries.
Both sides finished 2009 with an extra piece of silverware in their trophy cabinet with Balcatta taking out the League title on the final day of the title race and the Northern Redbacks captured the Cup just weeks later.
Balcatta’s run included victories over UWA/Nedlands, Subiaco and final round draw with the Redbacks. Understandably, Balcatta coach Lisa Tana is respectful of the Redbacks’ capabilities. “As with all games between Redbacks and Balcatta they are always a very tight contest as was seen in our 2-2 draw in the group games.” said Tana. “I expect nothing different on Sunday night and it should be a great game.”
Her usual counterpart Tim Hodgson will not be on the sidelines this Sunday with National U13’s Girls Coach and Redbacks midfielder Nicola Williams assuming the coaching duties. Despite his absence, Hodgson is well aware of the difficulties in tackling Balcatta. “We are looking forward to the challenge. They have recruited well and are always a good team. Our games are always eagerly contested and both teams try and play football. I am sure this game would be no different.”
The two sides will be chock full of local talent with the experienced Nicola Williams leading a Northern Redbacks side loaded with sharpshooter Lara Filicamo, rising young gun Sarah Carroll and a defence led by Rebecca Dudek and former Glory Womens defender Emily Dunn. They will come up against a Balcatta side marshalled by Prue Cormie in the midfield with Glory Womens' attacker Ellis Glanfield and a couple of imports added into the mix.
As their last clash suggests (a 2 - 2 in this year's Night Series), there is never much that separates these two sides. What you are sure of getting this Sunday is some fast, attacking football.
15.4.2010
THE HILLS ARE ALIVE
When in comes to producing local women's talent, the Perth Hills United doesn't immediately spring into mind. However, this relatively new club has provided WA with a more than it's fair share of rising stars at the grassroots level.
Only beginning three years ago, their girls program this year provided three players who represented WA in the National U/13s Championships; Emily Henderson (selected for the National U/13s training camp), Emma Leaning (selected for the U/13 Championships "All Star" team) and Rachel Sands. That was in addition to Mikayla Romyn representing WA at U/13 level in the National Futsal Championships in January. Understandably program co-ordinator Steve Ireland is very proud of the club's achievement. "As you can guess, the club is hugely proud of the achievements of all four girls – and has great hopes for them and other girls in the club in following their soccer dreams."
Ireland and his wife Debbie initiated the program in 2007 with a tough beginning. "The basis of this team was actually a team of girl basketballers, including my daughter, Hannah, who has played soccer since she was 9. We started off with losing margins of ten goals-plus, by mid-season had it down to five goals and by the end of the season it was down to one or two goals and the boys’ teams in the division were terrified of losing to us."
Fast forward three years, and with the support of a committee who look after the girls and women’s interests, Perth Hills United will field sides in the 13s Premier, 13s Division 1 South East and a 15s Division 1. They have also taken on the task of starting a women’s team, with players mainly in the 16 to 20 years age group. "In our first proper year of operation we had one female team, then the next season two and now four. Next year should be interesting, as doubling the number again is way too had an act to follow."
Ireland is very active in the women's game and his goals for the program are simple. "For girls to experience the fun and freedom that comes from chasing and kicking a soccer ball with others who feel the same way – it is simple as that. We like to win matches, but fun comes first."
"It is fair to say that the Perth Hills United teams have a reputation for friendliness, fairness and having fun on the pitch – opposition players, parents and referees comment on it, which is great."
7.4.2010
WA GIRLS PLACE SECOND
The future of women's football in this state is in safe hands following a strong performance by the West Australian Under-13 team at this week's National Junior Championships for Girls in Canberra. The State juniors completed the three-day tournament in second place, bettered only by Group B winners New South Wales Metropolitan, with four WA girls gaining selection in the All-Stars team.
NSW Metropolitan grabbed a 2-0 win over WA in Monday's opening game, but the girls from the west bounced straight back by holding NSW Country to a 1-1 draw, Charlee McPherson giving NSW an early lead with Emily Henderson equalising on 25 minutes. Day Two commenced with WA thrashing the Northern Territory 4-1, Henderson netting twice along with Sarah Kenny and Maddison Schofield. A goal after 20 minutes earned WA a tight 1-0 afternoon win against Victoria Country.
WA's final game produced a 4-0 win against Tasmania, Henderson netting for a fourth time in five games to which an own goal and subsequent strikes by Monique Godding and Emma Leaning were added. The win came with a bonus point, which lifted WA into second ahead of NSW Country. Schofield, Henderson, Leaning and Gabrielle Dal Basso gained selection in the Group B All-Stars that went down 1-0 to NSW Metropolitan, who took out the group without loss, in Wednesday's final game.
26.3.2010
GLORY GIRLS CHAMPIONSHIPS READY FOR KICK OFF
This coming Wednesday, 31 March will see over 300 girls and teachers taking part in one of the biggest primary school championships; the Smarter than Smoking Perth Glory Girls Regional Championships. One person who is itching for it all to kick of is competition co-ordinator and instigator Tony Carvajal. “I start organising it in the middle of Term 4 each year. There is a lot of organisation but it also a lot of fun.”
Carvajal started the Glory Cup 8 years ago and since then it has grown impressively each year. With the addition of a girls division, the popularity of the competition has made it a favourite with teachers and students alike. “There is no way that the girls would accept not to be in it,” said Carvajal. “They start training early and are really motivated. In fact some schools have had to put in two teams because so many girls want to play. That shows you there is a lot of interest.”
This years edition will see 30 primary schools participating in the nine a side competition with the matches to be held over four grounds; Lark Hill, Kingsway, Beeliar and Hartfield Reserve. Apart from all the fun and football, there is a serious side to the competition with the winners of each region playing off in the finals held at Beeliar Reserve on Friday 30th April.
22.3.2010
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Last Friday night saw the return of women’s football with round one of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Night Series kicking off. Unfortunately it got off to an auspicious start with the Northern Redbacks side having to play an intra-club friend after the forfeit of Subiaco AFC. However, the night was not lost when the Beckenham Angels hosted the newly promoted Bunbury Forum Force in an entertaining fixture.
The end whistle saw a 1 – 1 draw for the Force but coach John Gorman considered it a solid start for a team that’s clearly a work in progress. “I thought they played well. We should have taken more advantage of the one player advantage but in saying that at times it was quality,” said Gorman. “What really pleased me was that they just kept going. They were under enormous pressure in the second half and the Angels really wanted that goal but they kept playing to the end.”
For many on the sidelines it was their first look at the south west side who, it must be noted, were without six of their better players for the match. In saying that, there was plenty of quality still on the park. “All through the squad from goalkeeper to striker there is quality and something to work with. They are very keen, very passionate and the rest will come with skills and fitness.”
The Force has recruited some of the best young talent in the region and veterans Sarah King in goals and Lisa Ward in the centre of the park are some of the best to nurture that talent. Not surprisingly their coach agrees. “I’ve known Sarah for a long time and I believe she used to play for Arsenal Women’s so it’s a rare privilege to have her. They are quality. Sarah controls the defence and Lisa controls the midfield and attack.”
Despite the performance, the Force are perfectly aware that there is still plenty to work on. “We really must work on our first touch. That let us down tonight and teams will really take advantage of that.”
In other matches, defending League champions Balcatta Soccer Club displayed why many consider them the side to beat in all competitions when they defeated UWA/Nedlands 6 – 0. In solid performance Balcatta took an early lead and never looked headed. UWA/Nedlands would be encouraged by their second half performance with their defence only breached twice.
Finally, in an end-to-end contest defending Night Series champions East Fremantle drew with Queens Park 2 – 2. The port side would be rueing their missed chances and their inability to shut out the competition hosts.
Round 2
Group B puts have two intriguing fixtures this weekend with neighbourhood rivals Queens Park and Beckenham squaring off. Both teams had good hit outs in week one and, if they are to make the knockout stage, will be fighting for maximum points. Meanwhile the Force will need to back up last week’s performance against a slightly tougher opponent in East Fremantle.
Group A: Subiaco AFC v Balcatta; UWA-Nedlands FC v Northern Redbacks
Group B: Bunbury Forum Force v East Fremantle; Queens Park v Beckenham Angels
21.3.2010
THE GODDESS AWAKENS
A major criticism of the State League clubs in recent years has been their lack of development of the women’s game. However, this year Floreat Athena Football Club look to rectify that with the powerhouse club fielding a side in the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League.
One person who has been striving for this has been Athena board member Luke Tsakisiris. “FAFC has always wanted women’s football to be part of our great club. Unfortunately the drive to get it up and running and maintained was perhaps not there but that is no longer the case. The club has gone through major transformations for the better in the last 5 years largely to efforts of the board namely Con Poulios (President), Jim Karikis (VP) and Paul Katris (Secretary).”
With this significant Committee support the club has been able to recruit an experienced coaching team headed by former Athena player and tactician Michael Kagiorgis. Alongside Kagiorgis will be Harry Navrozidis (ex Victorian state league striker) as Assistant Coach and Tsakisiris himself will take on assistant coaching and managerial duties. “The goal this season is simply to play good, attractive football. The style of football that is synonymous with the Floreat Athena name. As this is a clean slate for us, a new era at the club we are not gunning for league glory in our 1st season. At this stage the team is just interested in playing football and having fun along the way.”
This is not the first time there has been a women’s team with the northern side even lifting a trophy back in 2002. However, this time around it appears that there is better backing and support for the idea. “The club has pulled out all the stops this year to get the team up and running. We have even been able to recruit a new sponsor for the women’s team, Michael Demarte owner of Well Hung Carpentry. He has shared our vision and has so much belief in the team that he has put his company name on the playing strip.”
Pre-season training commenced weeks ago and with it came a group of women with a mixture of skill levels and experience. However, according to Tsakisiris, the girls are responding well to the drills and gelling together. “Nothing is too simple or hard for the Athena Goddesses, we have focused on all facets of football from basic skills to crosser over and offside drills. By the time the season kicks off the Athena Goddesses will be marching onto that pitch as a well oiled football machine!”
The team is currently training at Britannia Reserve and come game day don’t be surprised to the see the side stepping out onto E&D Litis Stadium. Who knows this could be the start of something bigger.
“FAFC has been famous for producing some of the best male talent in the state and producing undefeated premiership winning teams. We want this success to be transferred to women’s football as well” said Tsakisiris. “We want to help raise the profile of women’s football in WA as much as we can, FAFC want to produce players like Collette McCallum and win a few trophies along the way.”
19.3.2010
UNDER 13 GIRLS STATE TEAM ANNOUNCED FOR NATIONAL JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Football West has announced the 16 girl squad who will make up the Under 13’s girl’s state team for the FFA National Junior Championships. The squad was chosen following trials held in November 2009 and will travel to Canberra for the 4 -10 April 2010 tournament.
The Junior Championships serve as a talent identification tournament and this year’s state team will be headed by Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League winning player Jessine Bonzas. Bonzas and her assistant, Football West Game Development Officer Erin Stinton, have been in control of the team for the last four months are pleased with the progression with the group.
"The players have been training extremely hard the last few months and are really starting to work together well within their teams." said Stinton. "The Championships will be a great chance for both teams to test themselves against the best that Australia has to offer within the under 13 age group, and I am looking forward to seeing the players step it up a notch for the tournament."
U13 Girls State Team (Club): Gabrielle Dal Busco (Balcatta), Leah Fitzpatrick (Heathridge), Monique Godding (Heathridge), Courtney Hall (Bayswater), Emily Henderson (Perth Hills), Sarah Kenny (Melville), Pippa King (Heathridge), Emma Leaning (Perth Hills), Leniana Masibaka (Kwinana), Steffi Nadilo (Cockburn), Rachel Sands (Perth Hills), Maddison Schofield (Kingsway), Hope Shepherd (Heathridge), Melissa Shepherd (Rockingham), Stephanie Simmonds (Melville), Melis Yildirim (Lynwood) - Jessine Bonzas (Coach), Erin Stinton (Assistant Coach)
15.3.2010
WOMEN’S NIGHT SERIES KICKS OFF
This Friday night sees the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Night Series kick off for 2010. Held at Coker Park, the home of Queens Park Thunders, this year’s edition will see eight teams battle it out for the night title including defending Night Series champions East Fremantle, League winners Balcatta SC and newcomers Bunbury Forum Force from the south west.
As always this year’s competition will be wide open with a numbers of teams capable of taking out the title.
Balcatta – They are the defending Women’s League champions with a tight defence and high scoring forwards. ‘Catta boasts the likes of Prue Cormie, Laura Turnball and Perth Glory squad member Ellis Glanfield. While they are known for their consistency, they aren’t always at the top of their game in this pre-season tournament. Regardless, their talented squad would make it difficult for anyone to over look them. The Night Series might also see the debut of their impressive three American imports.
Northern Redbacks – Runner’s up last season, Tim Hodgson’s squad is always up and firing for the Night Series and I expect nothing less this year. The Redbacks squad is a nicely balanced one with last year’s joint Golden Boot strikers Jackie Nellany and Lara Filocamo leading the line. The steady hands of Nicola Williams and Lyndsey Jobling and emerging youngsters Amy Knights and Sarah Carroll will also aid them in their quest. However, if they are to go one better, the Redbacks will have to tighten up defensively.
East Fremantle – The defending Night Series champions, Tony Carvajal girls went heartbreakingly close to doing the Night Series/League double. Lead by the talented and sometimes fiery Perth Glory midfielder Katarina Jukic, the port side will once again challenge for the night title. For the night series East Fremantle will be without Ebony Drane (Redbacks), Amy Jo Dixon and Sarah Hughes (injured). Despite that, this squad is still loaded with talent including Casey Herbener, Anique Keisler and Jamie Blake. The question will be how the new youngsters fit in to the existing squad.
Beckenham Angels – My smoky for the Night Series title. The Angels were the most improved squad last season despite finishing 6th in the League. Leo Coppen’s team surprised and upset many a top side (just ask East Fremantle) with their solid defensive efforts and a creative midfield force. Let down by their finishing, the Angels have recruited well in the off-season with Lizzie Courtley and Second Division top scorer Kirby Larsen adding to their firepower. Up and training since 5 January, look for them to be up and about early.
All in all it promises to be an exciting couple of weeks.
19 March 2010
Northern Redbacks v Subiaco AFC (6:30pm)
Beckenham Angels v Bunbury Forum Force (8:30pm)
21 March 2010
Balcatta v UWA (5:30pm)
East Fremantle v Queens Park (7:30pm)
4.3.2010
KYAH CLOSES OUT KOREA
A 90th minute strike from Matilda Kyah Simon has seen the Westfield Matilda’s defeat the number one ranked Asian heavyweights DPR Korea 3-2 at Ballymore Stadium.
After being pegged back to a 2 - 2 draw in the midweek friendly, the Matildas were out to achieve their first win in a long time over the Koreans. The last time they met it was a 3 - 0 win the visitors in the semi-finals of the AFC Asian Cup.
After a cagey opening 20 minutes where both sides battled for midfield dominance, the Matildas managed to finally get on top but were let down by their inability to finish.
Glory superstar Lisa De Vanna provided the first opportunity for Matildas in the 9th minute when she drew her first free kick of many. Club teammate and vice captain Collette McCallum took the resulting free kick, forced a dive from DPR Korean keeper Myong Hui Hong. Yun Mi Jo responded for the Reds minutes later when her powerful drive produced a first class low save from Australian 'keeper and Captain Melissa Barbieri.
Australia were finally rewarded for their midfield and forward pressure in the 25th minute through in form striker Sarah Walsh. After winning the free kick, Walsh latched on to a nicely weighted header from Glory's Katie Gill just on the end of the penalty area. Only metres out, Walsh blasted a strike past the helpless Hong to give the home side a deserved 1 - 0 lead. It didn't last for long when less than 10 minutes later DPR Korea hit back when an unmarked unmarked Yun Mi Jo placed a diving header at the back post off an Ye Gong Re cross.
On the shadows of half time there was controversy a plenty when referee Sara Hodson awarded a contentious penalty to the Australians. In response an unhappy DPR team was ordered off the pitch by their officials whose officials stopping the game. The visitors finally returned to the pitch after a five minute delay only to see Katie Gill calmly slot the penalty and give her side a 2 - 1 half time lead.
The second half saw the higher ranked team come out on top early with possession and opportunity. A 53rd minute strike from the explosive Yong Ae Kim put the match back on level terms. For the final half an hour, it was a case of the young Australian backline denying the Koreans waves of attack.
Late in the match the Glory duo of De Vanna and McCallum looked to provide a winner when the former was brought down cynically by her Korean marker. However, McCallum’s resulting free kick drifted harmlessly over the crossbar. The winner came in the final minute of the contest when Gill, involved in all three of the goals, picked up the ball 30 yards out and played it to the advancing McCallum. McCallum's ball picked out the late back post run of Kyah Simon who arrived inches before the defender and placed it over the stranded Hong.
The whistle came not long after giving the Matildas a crucial win over DPR Korea ahead of May's AFC Asian Cup. “I thought we defended exceptionally well and to beat a team of DPR Korea’s caliber I think shows great credit to our players ability and character,” said Sermanni.
“The players all did well and a result like that is another great step on our road to China.”
Westfield Matildas 2 (Sarah WALSH 25’, Katie GILL 45’+4, Kyah SIMON 90’)
DPR Korea 2 (Yun Mi JO 33’, Yong Hui KIM 53’)
Westfield Matildas line-up: 1.Melissa BARBIERI (gk), 4.Clare POLKINGHORNE (26. Laura ALLEWAY 90’), 5.Lauren COLTHORPE, 9.Sarah WALSH (17.Kyah SIMON 78’), 10.Kylie LEDBROOK (24.Tameka BUTT 54’), 11. Lisa DE VANNA, 12.Katie GILL, 13.Thea SLAYTER (15. Sally SHIPARD 78’), 14. Collette McCALLUM (c) (30.Emily VAN EGMOND 90’), 16. Elise KELLOND-KNIGHT, 23.Kim CARROLL
Substitutes not used: 18. Lydia WILLIAMS, 19.Leena KHAMIS, 28.Michelle HEYMAN, 29.Ellie BRUSH
DPR Korea line-up: 1.Myong Hui HONG (gk),4.Jong Sun KWON, 5.Yong Sim CHOE, 6.Un Sim RA, 7.Yun Mi JO (20.Su Ok RYOM 77’), 8.Hyon Hi YUN (15.Myong Hwa JON 54’), 9.Un Byol HO (17.Haeng Bok KANG 38’), 10.Yong Hui KIM (c) (3.Hyon Sun JANG 90’), 12.Un Ju KIM, 13.Chung Sim KIM (11.Ye Gyong RI 31’), 19.Pok Sim JONG
Substitutes not used: 2.Sol Ryon SIN, 14.Hye Ok KIM, 16.Jong Hui HU, 21.Myong Hui JON (gk)
4.3.2010
GLORY GIRLS GET THE GOALS
The Westfield Matildas have been held to a 2 - 2 in Game 1 of their two game international series with DPR Korea in Brisbane. In difficult conditions, the home side found themselves down going into half time when the World No.5 team opened the scoring. However, the Matildas leveled the score early in the second half when Perth Glory Golden Boot winner Katie Gill headed home a nicely weighed ball from midfielder Lauren Colthorpe. With the initiative, the Australians pressed their advantage when the in-form Lisa Devanna joined her Glory teammate on the scoreboard and put the Matildas ahead 2 - 1. Unfortunatly for Tom Sermanni's side, they were unable to prevent the Koreans from tying it all up right at the full time whistle.
Game 2 will be broadcast on ABC1 this Saturday, 6 March at 3.00pm.
4.3.2010
HAWKINS ON THE RISE
Like many female footballers, Welsh born Carys Hawkins’ football story starts early and with the men in her family. “I started at 6 or 7. We moved to Australia and my Dad started coaching at Wembley Downs. My brother started playing so I started doing it too.” While neither still play, Hawkins has moved on to become an important member of the Perth Glory Women’s back line.
Although she now spends most of her time in the back four next to her captain, Tanya Oxtoby, positionally that’s not where the 22 year old started her career. “I was a midfielder in high school. I have just found myself as a defender as there are so many young girls with a lot of skill. It is so hard to finding yourself in a starting 11 spot if you are in the midfield unless you are really talented player.”
As a defender she is an asset to the team through her ability to read the game, attack the ball and, importantly for a defender, her speed. “I think I am not as skilful as other players especially the midfielders and strikers. However, I rely on my physicality, aggression and I am strong in the air.” Even with the attributes she possesses, Hawkins is the first to admit she is still learning her craft.
Another successful footballer from Tim Hodgson’s Northern Redbacks, she admits, that even with that good grounding, it was quite a jump from the Women’s Premier League to the W-League. “Every single aspect of your game has to be so crisp. The standard of the W-League is that if you make a mistake you will be punished. I don’t usually find that in the State League. There you can usually chase down a player or some-one will cover for you.”
For Hawkins, her selection in the Glory squad was the culmination of years of hard work and good coaching. For that she grateful to her schoolgirls coach Wayne Baseden. “He was such a fantastic coach and you always learnt something from him.” On whether she will be back at the northern club this year, it’s still up in the air. “At the moment I don’t think I will be part of the Redbacks squad for 2010. I am not sure what sort of direction the WAIS squad.”
2.3.2010
END OF AN ERA AT ECU
The ECU Joondalup girl’s team have been one of the success stories for the last couple of years. As they moved through the age groups, the side gathered trophies at will before stepping up to Division One of the Smarter than Smoking Women’s competition in 2010. Despite it being a women’s competition, the result was no different with the team taking out the Division One title and going on a Cup run that took them all the way to the semi finals. For former ECU coach Adrian Kenny, it was the culmination of many years of hard work.
“When we played against Subiaco in the Cup semi final last year it was a real highlight. To see them come together and reap the rewards of what has been the massive effort for them to get that level, I was thrilled for them. To see them play at the level they played and the standard they played, all things considered, I was absolutely delighted for them.”
Unfortunately due to a variety of reasons, the ECU girls will not be playing as a group in 2010. “Some of the girls wanted to go off travelling, some of the girls are just starting uni and are not sure how much time they could put into it. Probably half the team wanted to go try their hand at Premier League club and the other half weren’t ready.”
Kenny has been a central figure in the development of the girl’s side up north. The genesis of the side was at Kingsley but after his son moved to near by ECU, Kenny wasn’t far behind. Though the team only consisted of his daughter and one other at the beginning, it wasn’t long before they figured they had the makings of a good side. “It was just my daughter and one other girl and the rest of them just turned up at trials. We were fortunate in that sense; we good some good girls, in fact we good some very, very good girls.”
Regardless of the team’s success Kenny and his support staff always had a very firm idea of what kind of characters they wanted in their squad. “Predominately the girls we thought had the right approach we kept. Not necessarily the best players, but the right approach and its in evidence that ultimately it comes down to having the right attitude because the girls in the end were a very good side.”
With eight years in the women’s football, Kenny has been there through the largest growth period of the sport in Western Australia. And after five years at the helm of ECU, he has healthy respect for the players and the game. “There is a lot of skill, a lot of technique involved and it is certainly physical. I tell you girls enjoy physical sport as much as boys do!”
“The biggest problem girls football has is that people, including the girls themselves, don’t treat it with as much respect as they should. When the girls take the same approach that the boys are offered, they can produce some good quality football. I think that is the secret to girl’s football in Australia; it needs to be given a more professional approach. It’s not just about keeping girls active it is about keeping girls playing good quality football.”
Although 2010 won’t see him on the sidelines, football will still be part of Adrian Kenny’s weekend routine. “I will be spending my Sundays watching Subiaco women play and my son has gone to Inglewood so I will be spending my Saturdays watching him there.”
25.2.2010
MAKING HER MARK
In world football you can count one hand the clubs that are headed by female presidents, chairs or CEOs. For a brief moment in 2006, Michelle Philips held the position CEO at Perth Glory and locally Heidi Lazzaro heads up Cockburn City but these appointments are very few and far between. However, in late 2009 Hamersely Rover’s Carol Marinkovich joined the ranks when she was appointed Club President. Not that Carol was present for the moment, as she was laid up with a football related injury. “I actually broke my wrist in the last game of the year, which was a week before the AGM. So I was in hospital having an operation on my wrist and I got voted in as President.”
While unusual, the appointment can be seen as close to inevitable considering Marinkovich’s long time involvement with the Rovers. “My Dad is English so I have been brought up on football all my life. Close to 20 years ago I ended up down at Hamersely with my dad and my now husband, who was my boyfriend at the time, and followed the men around for years. I have been on the Hamersely Committee before and been secretary, treasurer and registrar, which I also am at the moment.”
Alongside their Amateur’s side, the Hamersely Rovers have a cross-section of teams including a youth development team, several social sides, masters and a new ladies squad. After Amateur Premier League titles in 2001, 2002 and 2003, 2009 wasn’t the greatest season with their top amateur side unsuccessful in their fight to remain in the premier division. “Our aim is to get back in the premier division for 2011. With the coaching staff and the squad were are forming we hope to get back into the premier division.”
That coaching staff compromises of former Rovers’ player Flavio L'Abbate and Mo Caplin, who will be striving to get the side back on top. “The aim for the club is still to have that social, community ambience but we strive to get the Amateurs to the highest possible level we can. It’s very challenging but having the support that I do from the Committee is wonderful.”
Despite all that’s on her plate, don’t expect to see Carol Marinkovich resting too often as Madam President will be leading the way by pulling on the boots for the club’s women’s side. “90% of the girls from last year are all coming back. We have a few more new girls and so far everyone is keen to pull on the boots. I had a broken wrist out of football last season but that’s not stopping me. I will be back there in defence this year.”
24.2.2010
VICE CAPTAIN COLLETTE
Since the retirement of the legendary Cheryl Salisbury last February and Joanne Peters not long after, the captaincy and vice captaincy of the Matildas had been left vacant. But last week in New Zealand, National Coach Tom Sermanni unveiled his new leadership. Matildas’ custodian and Melbourne Victory captain Melissa Barbieri assumed the captaincy with Perth Glory and Westfield Matildas’ midfielder Collette McCallum to act as her deputy.
With all the names slated to fill the positions, Heather Garriock, Sarah Walsh, Katie Gill, to name a few, McCallum’s elevation to the vice captaincy confirmed her status as one of Australia’s premier female footballers.
Since debuting 2005 in a 3 – 0 Friendly loss to China, anyone with eyes could see that the then 18 year old was going to be special. The following years have seen the 23-year-old left footer rack up 51 games and 7 goals for the national team including a special left foot curler in the 2007 Women’s World Cup to take Australia past Canada into the quarter-finals. McCallum has racked up several honours in the past five years including runner up in the 2007 AFC Women’s Player of the Year, a title in the American W-League with the Pali Blues and the inaugural US Women’s Professional Soccer League title with Sky Blue FC.
Although McCallum will be deputising, considering Barbieri’s obvious on-field limitations, McCallum’s leadership, as well as her football, will be crucial on the park.
Australia continues their preparations for the 2010 Women’s Asian Cup with matches against DPR Korea on 3 and 6 March with Game broadcast from 3.30pm on ABC TV.
22.2.2010
THE NUMBERS GAME
Since the much-needed re-organisation of football in 2005, women’s football has grown at a rapid rate. In Western Australia, that trend has been no different. Since the starting point of 3740 female footballers in 2005, the numbers have increased yearly to the 5678 females who registered to play last year.
The reasons for this are numerous but a solid local competition, developmental pathways including WAIS and NTC, a relatively stable national competition in the Westfield W-League and a strong Matildas’ team have all been contributing factors. So at this most important time of the season, registration time, those in the women’s game will be looking to see those numbers rise again.
19.2.2010
THUNDER READY TO STRIKE
Taking into account the lofty standards of Queens Park Thunder, 2009 was a disappointing year for the southern river club. After a stellar 2008 which saw them take out the Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League, the Thunder were relegated to fourth position behind traditional rivals Balcatta and the Northern Redbacks and the young guns of East Fremantle. “We always look at the problems of last season and look to build in the new one.” said Assistant Coach Stacey Learmont. “We had a lot of young girls come through last year and that one year in the premier league has really built their confidence. They now understand the level they have to be playing at week in and week out. I think this year they will step up from day one and we should have a great season.”
Queens Park lost some considerable experience and none greater than the powerhouse Learmont who, then pregnant with her first child, spent the year on the sidelines. The news was a surprise considering her stellar 2008/09 which saw her once again crowned the Premier League Player of the Year and the Perth Glory Women’s Player’s Player.
In her absence several players stepped into the breach including younger sisters Kylie and Brittany Woodfin, Goalkeeper of the Year Maya Diederichsen and the Player of the Year Jess Lindquist. But after a season out, Learmont is itching to pick up where she left off. “I am hoping to pull on the boots. I missed it so much last year but you never know. I will have to see how Liv goes but as long as everything goes to play I hope to pull the boots back on.”
“It’s a different view that you get from the sidelines. It has impacted my game enormously being able to sit on the sidelines where you can see some much more of the game. This year I will definitely be going out there with a wider perspective and a lot more knowledge.”
As to Lindquist continuing in 2010? “I think Jess is still making her mind up. She has family commitments that she is looking at. She is definitely keen to stay involved with club either playing or otherwise.”
Either way it will be a re-focused and rejuvenated Queens Park that will take the field in 2010. “We always look to up the ante and change things up a little bit. Every one knows that we fight till the end and that is the attitude we will take into every game.”
17.2.2010
REDBACKS BACK WITH BITE
When it comes to potential Premier League champions, one club is always included in the list; the Northern Redbacks. For close to a decade the northern river club has been at the forefront of women’s football and coach Tim Hodgson has been there every step of the way. “I created the monster so I am stuck with it! I do enjoy it and I get excited each year as we have new players that come in and that gets me reinvigorated.” said Hodgson.
One of only two women’s only clubs, the Redbacks had a steady 2009 but a couple of dropped games in the middle of the season cost them a chance at the title. Spearheaded by joint Golden Boot winners Lara Filicamo and Jackie Nellany, Hodgson’s side were formidable and irresistible in attack. However defensively, early and soft goals cost them matches. Hodgson has addressed this in the off-season but not with a change of personnel. “The players that we have there just need to be probably a little bit smarter about how they play their positions. But we are always going to be vulnerable on the counter because of the way we play.”
The Redbacks have seen some the best young talent pass through the club including Matilda Lisa De Vanna, inaugural Perth Glory Womens coach Nicola Williams and current Glory defender Carys Hawkins. With that alumni list Hodgson has some idea of the next wunderkind in WA women’s football. “Without putting pressure on people, we have Amy Knights who has great potentional and Sarah Carroll. They are probably the two young ones who have already been observed by the WAIS coach (John Gibson). Ultimately its up to them to listen and work on the things they are advised to work on to improve their game.”
For the present, the Northern Redbacks will be looking to put in a couple of good sides for the 2010 season. “We have a lot of new players and we expect to field competitive teams in the premier reserves and the first division competition so at the moment looks pretty good player wise. If we can assist in some way for these girls to achieve whatever they are wanting to achieve in their football then I think that’s a positive.”
17.2.2010
GLORY GIRLS IN THE ACTION
The Westfield Matildas have started off 2010 with a solid performance against New Zealand securing a 3-0 win on Wednesday night in their first match of a two match series in Auckland, New Zealand. Glory foursome Lisa De Vanna, Katie Gill, Sam Kerr and Collette McCallum all played a part in the victory with De Vanna getting on the board in the 84th minute. “It was a good win, a solid performance given it’s been a year since the girls have played an international,” said Sermanni. “There’s been a few changes to the team since we last played and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.
“After such a long period between games you’re never quite sure if the team’s going to work cohesively. There were a few unknowns going into the game not only of the result but by how they (Westfield Matildas) would play and I must say I was pleasantly surprised,” continued Sermanni.
It’s been a year since Westfield Matildas last played an international match but Australia settled quickly in the opening minutes creating a handful of opportunities with De Vanna using her incredible speed to run at and threaten the New Zealand back four. With the dominance it wasn’t long before the breakthrough and this came through Sydney FC striker Sarah Walsh in the 23rd minute. Played through by club teammate Heather Garriock, an unmarked Walsh, with a first time shot, instinctively placed the ball back behind the advancing Football Ferns goal keeper Jenny Bindon to open the Australia’s account.
Bindon tried to keep New Zealand in the match with a number of fine saves from De Vanna, Garriock and Collette McCallum but couldn't stem the tide. Eight minutes into the second half, Walsh completed a swift counter-attacking movement she started herself, when she stepped across her defender to meet a low driven cross, again from Garriock, and side foot the ball past Bindon.
Sam Kerr got her opportunity when she was subbed on for Walsh midway through the second half. Meanwhile Gill, who had forced Bindon into a number of top quality saves, was replaced by Sky Blues markswoman Leena Khamis. In the 84th minute De Vanna completed the victory by placing a deft lob over Bindon from close range to cap off an impressive Matildas display. “In fact I thought all over the park everybody played an excellent part in the performance. It’s a good start and we’ll look to use this momentum to build on as we set our sights on a successful Asian Cup campaign,” finished Sermanni.
The Football Ferns and the Westfield Matildas will meet again on Saturday 20th February at Bill McKinlay Park.
New Zealand 0
Westfield Matildas 3 (Sarah Walsh 23’/52’, Lisa De Vanna 84’)
Yellow cards: Abby ERCEG, Hayley MOORWOOD
Red Cards: Hayley MOORWOOD
Westfield Matildas line-up: 1. Melissa BARBIERI (gk) (c), 4. Clare POLKINGHORNE (10. Kylie LEDBROOK 76’), 5. Lauren COLTHORPE, 6. Servet UZUNLAR, 7. Heather GARRIOCK, 9. Sarah WALSH (22. Samantha KERR 65’), 11. Lisa DE VANNA, 12. Kathryn GILL (19. Leena KHAMIS 65’), 13. Thea SLATYER (15. Sally SHIPARD 45’), 14. Collette MCCALLUM (27. Aivi LUIK 71’), 16. Elise KELLOND-KNIGHT
Substitutes not used: 17. Kyah Simon, 18. Lydia Williams (gk), 23. Kim Carroll, 24. Tameka Butt
New Zealand line-up: 1.Jenny BINDON (gk), 2.Ria PERCIVAL, 5.Abby ERCEG, 13.Bridgette ARMSTRONG, 15.Hannah WALL (16.Emma KETE 75), 4.Katie HOYLE (3.Anna GREEN 67), 12.Betsy HASSETT (10.Annalie LONGO 57), 8.Hayley MOORWOOD (Captain), 11.Kirsty YALLOP, 9.Amber HEARN, 17.Hannah WILKINSON (14.Rosie WHITE 57)
Substitutes not used: 18.Kristy HILL, 20.Aroon CLANSEY (gk)
11.2.2010
SERMANNI SQUAD INCLUDES GLORY GIRLS
Perth Glory’s quartet of stars, Lisa De Vanna, Katie Gill, Sam Kerr and Collette McCallum, have been selected in the 20 player squad for the Westfield Matildas upcoming tour of New Zealand. On speaking with Tom Sermanni, who is currently in Japan, he is pleased with the overall make up of the team. “It’s a bit of a mix. We still have some of our experienced campaigners from the previous World Cup and Asian Cup but we have a great deal of new players in the squad.”
For rising star Sam Kerr, it’s her second national team squad after debuting against Italy in February. It’s ample reward for an excellent W-League season, which saw her take out the Goal of the Year and Player’s Player of the Year. “I’m heaps excited. A little bit scared but heaps excited! I hope that I can a little bit of time over there to show them what I can do.”
For her Glory and Matildas’ team-mates De Vanna, Gill and McCallum this campaign is nothing new with the trio vital cogs in the Matildas machine. “It’s good to have girls from home. All the girls are a little bit older than me so it’s good to have girls from Perth especially.” said Kerr.
As the Matildas step up their preparation for the Asian Cup in May, the New Zealand series will give Sermanni and his coaching staff their first look at the squad under some pressure. “Against New Zealand, I am hoping to get some of idea of where the squad sits. It’s okay coming into camp where the players are familiar with each other and competing against players that they have known and played with for a long time. It’s different when you actually get into the heat of battle against a very competitive New Zealand in New Zealand.”
Melissa Barbieri (Melbourne Victory), Tameka Butt (Brisbane Roar), Kim Carroll (Brisbane Roar), Lauren Colthorpe (Brisbane Roar), Lisa De Vanna (Perth Glory), Heather Garriock (Sydney FC), Katie Gill (Perth Glory), Elise Kellond-Knight (Brisbane Roar), Samantha Kerr (Perth Glory), Leena Khamis (Sydney FC), Kylie Ledbrook (Sydney FC), Aivi Luik (Brisbane Roar), Collette McCallum (Perth Glory), Clare Polkinghorne (Brisbane Roar), Sally Shipard (Canberra United), Kyah Simon (Sydney FC), Thea Slatyer (Canberra United), Servet Uzunlar (Sydney FC), Sarah Walsh (Sydney FC), Lydia Williams (Canberra United)
A-International friendlies
New Zealand v Westfield Matildas - Wednesday, 17 February, 2010 - North Harbour Stadium, Albany
New Zealand v Westfield Matildas - Saturday, 20 February, 2010 - Bill McKinley Park, Mt Wellington
Tom Sermanni will be speaking to The World Football Programme at 10.45 this Saturday morning.
11.2.2010
GOSNELLS LADIES ARE KELMSCOTT BOUND
After being affiliated with Gosnells City for many years, the women’s side are on the move as they join the Kelmscott Roos.
Player/Coach Ann Gourley is excited about the move and what it means for the group. “We are trying to boost our numbers and get some pathways going for the girls. We are trying to improve the sustainability of our team and have feeder teams coming through.”
The beneficiaries of the move are the Kelmscott Roos. With an increase in the number of their junior girls, the decision to absorb the group was not difficult for Roos’ President Gary Ingram and his Committee. “It wasn’t a tough decision for the Committee to make and I think we are all happy with it. One of our committee members has a daughter who is no longer playing because she had nowhere to go as she got older.” said Ingram. “We now can round out the whole club. We have the amateurs, the women’s team and somewhere for the younger girls to go to as they get older.”
Kelmscott are experiencing significant growth South of the River and with new $5 million dollar facilities due for next season, Ingram and his club have plenty to offer. “What we give; Ann knows what she is doing with regards to coaching but we will be able to pay for coaching courses if anyone wants to go on them. For the girls, we want them to be playing in the Club colours. We want them to enjoy the club atmosphere and get involved in other things the Club does.”
It’s not all roses for Gourley and her girls and the move comes at a cost. The side surrenders their Smarter than Smoking Women’s Premier League position and move into the first division. However this doesn’t seem to worry Gourley with the team gaining key players for season 2010. “There had been some of our players that had taken a year of the last season and they are all coming back. We have goalkeeper who is an international goalkeeper in Northern Ireland and she is over for a year, so she will be with us for more or less the full season. Hopefully that will boost us at the back and give us a bit of backbone there.”
Given the competition in Division One it won’t be an easy task to come back up but it won’t be surprising if the Kelmscott Roos are on top come seasons end.
13.1.2010
GLORY GIRLS REWARDED
With the Perth Glory Ladies finishing one spot higher in Season two, reward has come for 4 Glory Women. Excitement machine Sam Kerr, Glory Golden Boot winner Katie Gill, Collette McCallum and goalkeeper Emma Wirkus have all been selected in the 29 women squad named today by nation coach Tom Sermanni. A notable exclusion is speedster Lisa DeVanna but this is only due to her family commitments.
Glory coach John Gibson this year oversaw the development of the players and was pleased with that their talent was recognised.
“All four of these girls have proved time and time again throughout the W-League season that they are class players and well worthy of their position in the Westfield Matilda’s training squad.”
Despite the selection, there is still a lot to be done between now and the final selection of the squad for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2 in May.
"It's now up to each player to prove that they deserve to be in the final squad that will travel to China in May." said Sermanni.
"These training camps over the next couple months will go a long way towards shaping the final squad in the lead up to the Asian Cup."
The Westfield Matildas have been drawn in Group B of the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2010 along with host nation China, Vietnam and Korea Republic. The competition will be held in Chengdu, China between May 19-30 and it doubles as a qualifier for the 2011 World Cup with only the top three teams qualifying.
The four day camp kicks off tomorrow at the AIS in Canberra. National Coach Tom Sermanni will also be speaking to Ann Odong live from the camp this Saturday on The World Football Programme at 10.45am.
Westfield Matildas squad list
Teigen ALLEN (Sydney FC), Laura ALLEWAY (Melbourne Victory), Melissa BARBIERI (Melbourne Victory), Leah BLAYNEY (Central Connecticut State University, USA), Ellie BRUSH (Canberra United), Joanne BURGESS (Brisbane Roar), Tameka BUTT (Brisbane Roar), Lauren COLTHORPE (Brisbane Roar), Casey DUMONT (Brisbane Roar), Heather GARRIOCK (Sydney FC), Kathryn GILL (Perth Glory), Michelle HEYMAN (Central Coast Mariners), Elise KELLOND-KNIGHT (Brisbane Roar), Samantha KERR (Perth Glory), Leena KHAMIS (Sydney FC), Kylie LEDBROOK (Sydney FC), Aivi LUIK (Brisbane Roar), Collette McCALLUM (Perth Glory), Sian McLAREN (Adelaide United), Kate McSHEA (Brisbane Roar), Ellyse PERRY (Canberra United), Clare POLKIINGHORNE (Brisbane Roar), Karla REUTER (Brisbane Roar), Kyah SIMON (Sydney FC), Thea SLATYER (Canberra United), Emily VAN EGMOND (Canberra United), Sarah WALSH (Sydney FC), Lydia WILLIAMS (Canberra United) and Emma WIRKUS (Adelaide United).
13.1.2010
WA HOLD THEIR OWN AT FUTSAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
When it comes to futsal, the WA women’s team are the new kids on the block. While they have performed admirably in the last two National Championships, there is still a considerable gap between the west and the powerhouse NSW and Queensland sides.
However, led by Penny Rinaldi and Jessica Lindquist, the girls are giving it their all in true sandgroper tradition. “We have to remember that futsal in WA is still in its developmental phase. These other states have been attending [the National Championships] for over 20 years and this is only our third year.” said co-captain Lindquist.
Jess Lindquist is a true workhorse and her commitment and work ethic contributed largely in her being voted the 2009 Women’s Premier League Player of Year in the longer form of the game. But even Lindquist admits futsal is a different proposition all together. “The work rate required is far more intense than outdoor. Futsal pushes you to your complete limit in terms of fitness. The technical side of it is far superior in terms of the pressure placed on you and you are an attacker and a defender at all times.”
It’s been a tough road for the girls but in a gruelling Day 2, a narrow defeat to NSW Lightening and wins over Victoria and Northern NSW proves that it won’t be long before WA will be vying for the coveted semi finals places. “This year we are so competitive against the good teams which is really encouraging. The knowledge of the way that the game is played is much better than last year. We have stepped up our defensive efforts as opposed to only going forward. Everyone knows their role and they are sticking to the game plan. First we are not conceding and then taking our opportunities when we get them.”
Like captains before her, Jess Lindquist recognises the importance of futsal in the development of the next generation of footballers. “If we can get futsal recognised as part of our youth development and in our young girls, it will make them more confident in their outfield play.”
As co-captain, she has been impressed with the commitment of the girls in the tournament and is hoping for the same standard of performance in the final qualification matches. In particular the Division One leading goalscorer Erin Walsh (Noranda), who has brought her goal scoring prowess to the national stage as she currently sits second on the table. “Everyone has been performing solidly but Erin Walsh has really stepped up to the plate. It’s great.”
The girls meet defending champions NSW Thunder, Northern NSW Hawks and the ACT Cobras in their final qualification matches. Track their results here .
12.1.2010
PHOENIX LADIES RISING
Despite finishing, by their own admission, a disappointing third in the state league first division, the South West Phoenix are a club on the rise.
On the back of this, 2010 year sees the addition of a women’s team in the Smarter than Smoking Women’s League, with the backing and support of the southwest club. “South West Phoenix’s charter is to be the development team for the southwest. Of course women’s football is part of football in the southwest so we must provide that development pathway for both males and females. It [the team] provides an opportunity for the girls in the region to play at a higher level and still locate themselves in the region without having to leave.”
One person delighted with the news is Lisa Ward, a long time proponent and advocate for a southwest women’s side. “Well it’s fantastic. Finally we will be able to showcase the talent in the southwest and hopefully they will get more recognition and selection in the State teams. We do have to thank John [McGreary] for his push and continuous push to get a ladies team in the competition.”
The southwest region has never been devoid of women’s talent with Ward, Sarah King (ex-Arsenal Ladies goalkeeper) and Debbie Farrell (ex-Crystal Palace and State player) just some of the names to come out of the area. But Ward believes with the increase of competition, the next generation will be light years ahead of where she and her compatriots were. “We do have a lot of girls that have the potential to make the state teams or have competed in state teams. Watching these young girls come through, the talent these days is greater than the talent we had previously. We were stand outs but now there are plenty coming through.”
The man charged with selecting and harnessing the talent is John Gorman and he is more than happy with what is available. “The strength in the southwest is phenomenal. We have virtually five players vying for each position. In saying that putting pressure on the goalkeeper would be good!” said Gorman. “Generally we have a good cross section of the age groups. We have everything a good team needs. We have speed, agility, youth, experience but now what we need to do is combine those factors and make it a really strong side.”
It has yet to be determined which division the Phoenix will be stepping into but regardless of their placing Gorman has a clear vision for the side. “Very much we are there to entertain. I am not much of a defensive tactician. We are there to entertain the crowd, the spectators and the family. I am looking for individual flair, something not so predictable and mundane. I will encourage the team to enhance those qualities.”
4.1.2010
GIRLS STATE TEAM TRIALS
Trials for the 2009 Girls Under-15 (Born 1995/1996) and Under-17 (Born 1993/1994) State teams will be held at Gibbney Reserve in Maylands on January 30th and 31st (8.30am-10.30am both days). To attend trials all players must complete and return an Expression of Interest form to Football West via:
Post: PO Box 214, Maylands, 6931
Fax: 9271 7299
Email: erin.stinton@footballwest.com.au
Players must pre-register and all correspondence will take place by email, so please ensure your email address details are correct. Players and parents will be notified at the end of trials if they have been successful in gaining State selection. For further information about the Under-15 and Under-17 Girls State Team trials visit the Girls State Team page of the Football West website.
16.12.2009
MAY DAY FOR GLORIOUS STARLET (courtesy Football West)
Unheralded midfielder Shannon May has underlined her importance to Perth Glory Women by taking out the Most Glorious Player award. May was stunned to receive the prestigious award in front of team mates, coaches, sponsors, family and friends at the team's end of season awards dinner. "I'm so surprised to win this award, it really is a shock" said May. "We have so many world class players in the squad that to win this award is really special and I would like to thank my team mates and the coaching staff."
May, scorer of the first ever goal for Glory Women, played every match of the 2009 W-League season and was tasked with a holding midfield role, a position which saw her come up against some of the country's best players. Whilst not enjoying the profile of some of the international players, the diminutive May's importance to the team cannot be questioned. "Shannon has been fantastic for our side this season, and I couldn't think of a more deserving winner," said coach John Gibson.
Washington Freedom recruit Alex Singer was named the Players' Player of the Year, whilst Matildas striker Katie Gill took the Golden Boot with three goals in as many game following her late season arrival from Swedish side Sunnana SK. Glory Women completed the second W-League season in sixth place, only one point outside of a maiden finals appearance.
9.12.2009
OXTOBY PLEASED WITH SEASON OF ACHIEVEMENT
Perth Glory Women laid some firm foundations this summer upon which they will build towards future success according to team captain Tanya Oxtoby. The team finished the second instalment of the W-League in sixth spot, but just a single point outside the play-off spots. "Given the circumstances that we've found ourselves in at times this season, the group has done extremely well to be just outside the four," said Oxtoby. "We are still a young group, we are still learning and we have proven we can mix it with the best at times this season."
Glory Women came on in leaps and bounds this season and Oxtoby has been particularly pleased with the teams attitude towards playing. "The mental toughness of the group has developed a lot since last year, the ability for players to give as good as they get is something as a group we lacked last season," commented the team captain. "The girls have really stood up and believed in themselves and what we are trying to do which is a credit to everyone from the coaching staff to the players themselves."
Being able to play a consistently high standard in a small league, such as the eight-team W-League, is vital and ultimately it was an inability to achieve this that denied Glory Women a top four place this season. "You have to have the ability to perform at the required level week in and week out, no matter who the opposition is or where you are playing," explained Oxtoby. "That is still something we are developing as a group, and although it has improved dramatically from last season we still have a lot more room for improvement ... and that's a massive positive for next season."
Injury, international commitments and suspension prevented Lisa De Vanna, Collette McCallum and Sam Kerr from turning out on occasions for Glory Women this season, and absences such as those also played a part in the side missing out on the finals. "It leaves a huge hole due to their special abilities as players, and that isn't something that is easily replaced," commented Oxtoby. "In saying that, the group as a whole has always stuck together and worked hard which is something I will always be proud of as a captain of a team."
The new-look coaching line-up of John Gibson and Shaun Murphy, who both played for Australia, was a big bonus this season. "Both of them have been at this level before and know what to expect, and what the players require to get the job done," said Oxtoby. "They're a bit like chalk and cheese in some respects which gives the group a great balance, whilst they still have the same philosophies and goals for the group. They both leave nothing to the imagination, and as a group we are always very clear about what our roles are and what is required to get the job done."
One of the highlights of Glory Women's season, in fact of their first two seasons, was this month's defeat of reigning champions Brisbane Roar. "The girls worked so hard this year and a lot of things didn't fall our way, but it was nice to have that hard work pay off against Brisbane," said Oxtoby of the 2-1 home win. "Leading into that game the girls were smarting from two heavy losses and winning was definitely one way we could earn back some respect from the other teams, which was one of our goals for the season ... and it's always nice to defeat a team that hasn't lost."
7.12.2009
W-LEAGUE PEERS VOTE KERR THEIR TOP PLAYER
Perth Glory Women attacker Samantha Kerr has reinforced her reputation as one of the nation’s brightest young stars when awarded the Players’ Player of the Year at the 2009 W-League Awards in Sydney. The 16-year old starlet showed maturity beyond her years to play a crucial role for Glory, who enjoyed their best season in the competition. Kerr’s ability to find the back of the net was also recognised with Goal of the Year honours for her long-range effort against Sydney FC in Round Eight.
The Julie Dolan Medal for Player of the Year was awarded to Central Coast Mariners’ Michelle Heyman, who also picked up the Golden Boot for her eleven regular season finishes. Mariners custodian Jillian Loyden was named Goalkeeper of the Year, while the Young Player of the Year Award was shared by Elise Kellond-Knight (Brisbane Roar) and Ellyse Perry (Canberra United). The Coach of the Year was split between Stephen Roche (Central Coast) and Ray Junna (Canberra), with Referee of the Year honours going to Kate Jacewicz.
5.12.2009
DOUBLE DELIGHT FOR GLORY WOMEN
Two of the world’s best strikers have combined to ensure Perth Glory Women finished the second W-League season with a 2-0 win over Melbourne Victory at Clipsal Stadium. Lisa De Vanna came off the bench to break the deadlock on 81 minutes before club and country team mate Katie Gill killed the game off six minutes later. “De Vanna, (Sam) Kerr and Gill - it was a wonderful combination and that’s even possibly a national team combination going forward. I was pretty happy with that tonight,” said coach John Gibson. “Just after half time we lost our way a bit. We made a few adjustments and then we got on top of them again. It’s a credit to the girls. They have had some not so good experiences but they have learned from them this year.”
With Canberra United winning earlier in the day, Melbourne needed at least a point from the game to get their first taste of finals action. The early signs were positive for the visitors as Julianne Sitch skipped past the Glory defence but her shot posed no problems for Emma Wirkus. Glory’s first attempt came soon after, Elisa D’Ovidio latching onto a through ball and with goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri advancing the midfielder’s attempted lob was narrowly high. Minutes later Sam Kerr sent in a cross which was cleared only as far as Ella Mastrantonio, whose stunning strike from 18-metres was just past the post. Weathering the flurry of chances, the visitors hit back when Vedrana Popovic released Sitch but her shot was well gathered by Wirkus.
Melbourne emerged from the break with Sitch, Katrina Gorry and Selin Kuralay asserting authority. Kuralay rattled the crossbar before forcing a superb reflex save from Wirkus at the rebound, while the Glory ‘keeper did well to palm away Monnique Hansen-Kofoed’s cross into the goalmouth. The introduction of De Vanna was to near immediate effect, the livewire striker instigating Glory’s first attack of the period in which Gill’s shot was blocked and Mastrantonio tested Barbieri with the follow-up. De Vanna got the breakthrough by outpacing her marker and, with only Barbieri to beat, slotting into the net. The result was soon put beyond doubt as Gill’s lob over the ‘keeper from distance put the icing on Glory’s cake.
The win set three new Glory Women records - a point tally high of 13, most wins in a season and also their highest final placing of sixth. “The team has done everything we have asked of them for the year. Again we talk about processes, skill sets and habits. They did that again today and they were fantastic, particularly when the other team had so much at stake,” said coach Gibson. “Where the group is at, at this point, I think it is a fantastic result for us to finish just a point outside of the four. We knew that the middle part (of the season) was going to be hard with the draw that we had but there are no excuses.”
|
