The Main Event: Phoenix fire their way to another victory

Western Sydney Wanderers 0-3 Wellington Phoenix

by Isabelle Campbell (30/12/25)

Above: Wellington Phoenix (white) and Western Sydney Wanderers contest possession tonight at Wanderers Football Park. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers.

In a scrappy and physical encounter at Wanderers Football Park, Wellington Phoenix secured a dominant 3-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers.

The Phoenix’s attacking quality proved too much for the Wanderers, with a brace from Emma Main and a goal from Samba sealing the result. The win marking Wellington’s first points earned points away this season and took their recent for and against tally to 10-0 when taking on Sydney’s clubs in the competition.

The match began at a slow tempo, but it didn’t take long for Wellington Phoenix to make their mark. In the seventh minute, Emma Main opened the scoring with her first goal of the season. Positioned perfectly in front of goal, Main tapped in a precise pass from Samba to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

The match soon became a hard-fought contest, with both teams battling fiercely for possession in the midfield.

As the half progressed, Wellington continued to apply pressure. In the 39th minute, they were awarded a free kick in a dangerous position after a foul on goalscorer Main. Grace Jale stepped up to take it, but Sham Khamis in the Wanderers’ goal was quick to react, clearing the ball away from danger.

Shortly after, Wellington thought they had doubled their lead when Samba slotted the ball into the back of the net, but the celebrations were cut short as the offside flag was raised.

Above: Wellington Phoenix were well supported in Western Sydney with plenty of noise for their Nepalese star Samba. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.

The match became increasingly physical, with six minutes of added time playing out in the first half. Despite this, neither side managed to find the back of the net again, and the teams headed into halftime with Wellington Phoenix leading 1-0.

The second half got underway with Wellington showing no signs of easing up. It didn’t take long for Samba to get her name on the score sheet. In the 48th minute, a well-timed cross from Brooke Nunn found its way into the box, and after a fumble from the Wanderers defence, the striker slotted home her third goal of the season, much to the delight of the large group of Nepalese fans in the stands.

The Phoenix weren’t content to stop there, and just minutes later, they furthered their lead. In the 52nd minute, Main netted her second goal of the game, putting Wellington up 3-0 and continuing to put pressure on the Wanderers.

Shortly after, Emma Pijnenburg, the New Zealand international who has just signed from Dutch club Feyenoord, made her A-League debut, coming on as a substitute.

With Wellington in control, the Wanderers didn’t see their first shot on target until the 84th minute. They won a free kick just outside the box, and Amy Harrison stepped up to take it. However, Vic Esson was equal to it, gathering the ball and maintaining her side’s clean sheet.

Despite a late push from the Wanderers, they couldn’t break through the Phoenix defence, and Wellington Phoenix walked away with a 3-0 victory, securing their first away win of the season.

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

WELLINGTON PHOENIX (4-4-2): Esson, Bott, Barry, Walker, Jale, Samba, van der Meer, Main, Wall, Nunn, Vlok. Substitutes: Danieli, Elliott, León, D.Brazendale, Benson, Pijnenburg.

Goals: Main 7, 52’, Samba 48’.

Referee: Georgia Ghirardello

Attendance: TBC.

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What should Aston Villa do in the January Transfer Window?

By Ben Tattoo (26/12/25)

Above: Villa pre-match against West Ham this season Photo: Aston Villa FC

In the next os his series, Ben Tattoo spoke to author, podcaster and Aston Villa superfan, Freya Taylor-Hall about the upcoming transfer window.

 Can you tell us how your journey into football fandom began?

I grew up in a Sunderland-supporting family and went to a lot of the men’s games.

I moved to Birmingham for university and one of my friends there went to Villa’s Academy. She said I should come to a game sometime, which I did when they were still at Bescot Stadium, and I haven’t looked back.

I started going along to matches and meeting the other supporters, it’s just such a lovely atmosphere. You go for the football, but you go for that social aspect as well, which has been great.

There are some teams that you support because there’s a feeling, and it just feels right. Villa is one of those clubs.

What did you make of Villa’s pre-season transfer business?

When Lynn Wilms, the Dutch superstar, was then announced, we thought how’s that happened? It was incredible!

We’ve seen a shift in Villa behind the scenes, especially from this season. It feels like they are striving for more and striving for better.

We signed Ellie Roebuck, I think that’s only going to solidify and secure her chance at getting back in the England squad, so it’s fantastic for her to compete with Sabrina D’Angelo.

I like the fact with Villa that we have always brought in names that are either underrated or unknown, and we are able to then showcase them to the world.

The one that’s really surprised us in the best possible way has been Lucia Kendall, from Southampton.

She’s just gone from strength to strength, and we’ve seen what she’s done for the senior Lionesses as well over the past few winter breaks.

Do you think that signings like Wilms were a show of intent?

Yeah, definitely, and it shows some good business as well, because throughout the WSL we know how big the gaps are between the top four usual ones and the bottom end.

What Natalia Arroyo is really keen on is bringing that youth throughand I think that’s what Villa is starting to do very well, because there was a time where we were letting a lot of our youth go.

George Mullet went out on loan, but now she’s back with us, and getting minutes in the starting lineup, Rachel Maltby as well is doing incredibly well.

Another signing, Maya Hijikata, the young Japanese international, we didn’t know much about her, but she’s been a superstar already after arriving injured.

It is definitely a statement of intent from Villa.

What’s your impression or feeling about the season so far?

It’s a strange season, because you’ve got the gaps starting to take place already, in the WSL, you’ve got City way ahead on 30 and Villa on 13.

Villa are still comfortable in that mid-group. I don’t think it’s that they’re playing badly. I just think other teams have levelled up and are on a good run.

I think what Villa needs to do in order to push on, because fifth was their highest place finish a couple of seasons ago, is bring in those signings and the support system as well.

Systems that are actually going to keep us up with those clubs, and really compete, because we’ve seen what’s happened with Liverpool and West Ham.

If you take your eye off the ball for even a second, other clubs are going to leapfrog over you. I don’t think we’ve been playing badly at all.

I just think we’re a team that need to be a bit more clinical. We need to take our chances a bit more. But, ultimately, are the club willing to invest in that future to keep us up there?

Are you expecting many players to leave in January?

No, I’m not expecting any to leave at all, which is quite a nice thing to say.I don’t think we’ve got anyone who isn’t getting game time and I think everyone is pretty happy with where they are.

The only question I would have is, maybe, about Ebony Salmon, but there isn’t much of a push there. I think that’s just purely whether she is still in the right space for her, because she hasn’t been on her best form lately, but I think that would purely be a personal thing, it’s not technical.

I think everyone else is pretty happy, because if you look at Villa’s bench for most of the time, we don’t have that many people, so, if anything, a couple may be coming in.

What areas do you think that Villa need to strengthen, and who would you bring in?

I know there’s a lot of players in the Swedish League that have come to the end of their contract, because the Damallsvenskan has finished for the winter now.

We need another defensive midfielder, because Lucy Staniforth, as amazing as she is, with injury, she’s been in and out, so I think cover for her, because ultimately only got five registered midfielders and that’s probably our weakest area.

We’ve lost Jill Baijings to ACL, and Miri Taylor’s been dropping back in defence and doing a very good job, but she’s been all over the place, a bit like a Rachel Daly, this season.

With Staniforth out,  we’ve got three active midfielders at the minute, so everyone’s kind of doing a bit of a patchwork position sometimes. So midfield is an area to look at.

What do Villa need to do to climb the table?

We’ve got a pretty solid defence and the midfield is better than it ever has been – I think it’s just that final bit in front of goal.

I think a couple of goals will turn it around and winning the games that when we go in front, or if we’re holding out for a draw, that we see it through.

We’re seeing far too many times that we’ll take an early lead and then lose. Consistency is really what we need.

If you could sign any player for Vila who would it be?

I would love Ellie Carpenter. I just think she’s phenomenal – the speed on her is just incredible. Jess Park has been doing wonders since she moved to United. She’s a little firecracker, just all over, creating chances and we need that.

I want Kenza Dali back, because I think that was what we were missing – a creative ‘10’. I don’t think she’ll come back, but it’d be quite nice as she still loves the team, and she says she misses the fans.,

So, someone who’s a creative 10, like Kenza, someone who’s going to really link that midfield together and push on if possible.

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McNamara & Davidson on fire as City see off Perth

Melbourne City 3-1 Perth Glory

by Ben Gilby (28/12/25)

Above: Holly McNamara celebrates with Melissa Barbieri today. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

A hat-trick from Holly McNamara on her 50th appearance, with all of her goals supplied by perfect passes from Leah Davidson, earned Melbourne City the win over a hard-working Perth Glory side at AAMI Park.

Bronte Trew’s strike early in the second half, after an excellent build-up gave the Western Australians hope and some reward for their efforts, but in the end, it was the McNamara/Davidson partnership that was the difference.

The home side went into their second game in five games unchanged following their late win over cross city rivals Melbourne Victory, which ensured that two icons of the club, McNamara, and Rebekah Stott would celebrate landmark appearances in the competition, with the New Zealander marking her 150th game, and the Matildas attacker her 50th.

Perth Glory made two changes to the starting line-up that defeated Adelaide United last weekend with Emma Tovar and Susan Phonsongkham coming in for Clancy Westaway and Gabby Hollar.

It was a thrilling start to this game with both teams looking to create. Recognising City’s preference to play from the back, the visitors played a rapid press from the off, and with a number of their squad very comfortable on the ball, they gave the Asian Champions League Quarter-Finalists a lot to think about in this spell.

With four minutes played, Rola Badawiya escaped along the left, beating Stott to play in a cross with plenty of pace on it which the hosts couldn’t clear and Bronte Trew put an effort just over the top.

Dani Butros was a key part of the City attack in the early exchanges, and her battles with Grace Johnston were a highlight with Butros’ pace going up against Johnston’s excellent reading of the game.

Phonsongkam was influential for the Glory in the opening 20 minutes. Her ability across the front third in combination with Badawiya was causing headaches for the Sky Blue defence – both attackers are capable of excellent pacy footwork, accurate dangerous balls into the box, and the ability to finish.

However, for all Perth’s promise, they failed to make a vital breakthrough – and history shows that Michael Mattriciani’s side will make you pay.

Above: Onyi Zogg gets a foot in at AAMI Park today. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus.

That they did with 23 minutes played when Davidson’s perfectly weighted pass through found McNamara who beat Mischa Anderson for pace and escaped from Tijan McKenna to fire home.

To their credit, the Glory stuck to the game plan, and were working exceptionally hard; both Tijan McKenna and Julia Sardo were doing the hard yards both tracking City’s attackers, and assisting the attack.

With just under a quarter of an hour until the break, City released Alexia Apostolakis who broke clean into the right hand side of the Glory box, but was met by Theresa Morrisey who snaffled out the danger.

Whilst this move didn’t result with a goal, it showed that if the home side could pull Glory players around, a telling ball into the slightest gap could lead to breaches at the back with the injection of pace – the danger for Perth in using a high block.

Three minutes into stoppage time, City doubled their lead. Perth keeper Morrissey played a pass out to Tijan McKenna who was immediately swamped by Chinaza Uchendu. Winning possession, the City attacker squared a low pass to Davidson. In turn, the midfielder laid off for McNamara to smash the ball into the net from near the penalty spot. A perfect time to score.

However, just five minutes into the second half, Perth were back in the game. A superb piece of vision from Georgia Cassidy saw the Young Matilda play an excellently weighted pass from the middle of the park for Johnston on the right to turn in a low cross for Trew to turn in at the back post.

On the hour mark, McNamara picked the pocket of Cassidy on the right and laid a low ball into the centre of the area for an unmarked Butros, but the former Football Victoria Academy player directed her shot at Morrissey.

However, with 20 minutes to play, up stepped City’s dynamic duo to finally settle matters. Stott supplied Davidson who then played a beautifully judged pass for McNamara to run through the Glory defence and lift the ball into the net.

The final chance of the afternoon fell to substitute Gabby Hollar, who hit a powerful half volley wide of the right hand post, to deny the league yet another dramatic conclusion to a match this weekend.

This was a pleasing win for City, who backed up their derby day win in midweek with some top quality offensive play. Whilst Perth’s unbeaten run is over, the application and promise shown across the opening hour of this game would have been enough to beat the majority of sides in the competition. It all comes down to putting the ball in the net when the chances came. McNamara did just that.

For the full gallery of Tilly McDonald’s photographs from AAMI Park today, go to our Instagram page – @ImpetusFootball

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

Scorers: McNamara 23′, 45+3′, 70′.

PERTH GLORY (4-3-3): Morrissey, Johnston, Anderson, T. McKenna, Sardo, Dalton, Cassidy, Tovar, Trew, Badawiya, Phonsongkham. Substitutes: Phillips, Hollar, O’Donoghue, Lincoln, Westaway, Zogg.

Scorers: Trew 50′.

Referee: Bec Mackie.

Attendance: 1,937.

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Dale delivers to keep Canberra United in top spot

Newcastle Jets 0-1 Canberra United

By Kieran Yap 27/12/25

Above: Sienna Dale is mobbed by teammates following her winning strike. Photo: Canberra United.

Sienna Dale’s 93rd minute goal has kept Canberra United in top spot after an entertaining battle with the Newcastle Jets at No. 2 Sportsground. The result was Canberra’s sixth consecutive game without a defeat and keeps them a point clear of Melbourne Victory with a game in hand.

Antoni Jagarinec’s side arrived in Newcastle following a hectic month of football. After winning three games in the space of a week against Victory, Sydney FC and Melbourne City, they escaped with a draw after two lightning delays and an equaliser at the death against Central Coast Mariners.

Canberra fans would have been hoping for a comparatively simple match, but their drama filled season continued with Dale’s last-minute heroics.

The Jets have had a more mixed December. An excellent 3-0 win over Brisbane Roar was followed up by a loss by a similar margin to Melbourne Victory. It was a game they deserved more from and Stephen Hoyle’s team needed to respond against the high-flying United to re-establish their finals credentials.

In an entertaining match, Newcastle sat relatively deep, with numbers around the edge of the box. They looked to break on the counterattack but could not find an easy outlet with Melina Ayres pushed deep by Canberra’s defence. Josie Allan was deployed in a playmaker role, and created Newcastle’s best opportunities while Claudia Cicco was excellent in defence.

Canberra United attacked with more regularity and intent, but could not find the final ball or space to get a good shot on goal. Their best chance came from a turnover after their press resulted in Emma Hawkins turning and shooting from close range, but the effort lacked the power or precision to beat Anna Leat in goal.

Allan continued to pull the strings in the attacking third for The Jets, and her clever pass found Ayres with space to shoot, but the Jets striker was uncharacteristically off target with her effort.

The second half, saw Canberra pin back Newcastle until the hour mark. Sasha Grove swapped flanks with Hayley Taylor-Young and found herself in more attacking positions from the left wing. Michelle Heyman became more involved as Canberra found another gear.

Newcastle eventually halted that momentum, and worked their way back into the match, but could not turn that into goals. Ayres embarked on a promising solo run, but her eventual shot was scuffed from outside of the area.

As full time approached, it began to feel like one of those draws that deserved to be more. Grove’s clever movement and tenacious work in the penalty box set up Heyman to score, but her shot went over the bar.

The Matildas striker turned supplier in the next play, her run and well-timed pass set up Mary Stanic-Floody with only Leat to beat, but her shot was well saved and needed more power.

Stanic-Floodt put that missed chance behind her quickly. There was no time to do anything else, and her next contribution helped decide the game. Her backheel flick sent fellow substitute Dale through in on goal, but she still had plenty to do.

The finish matched the buildup, and Dale defied the pressure of the moment to calmly loft the ball over the onrushing Leat to nestle under the bar and into the net.

The win cements Canberra’s newfound identity as a team that will not stop until the final whistle. For the second game in succession they have decided the result at the last possible moment, but it is not luck. They look calmer as the pressure rises, and seem confident that they have the players to turn the day their way.

Dale has established herself as a key player off the bench, capable of changing the game. Heyman could easily have had two against a lesser goalkeeper and Grove’s versatility in attack and midfield has made her a weapon no opponent has been able to contain so far.

They next face Western Sydney who will be smarting from a comprehensive loss to Adelaide United and needing to respond. Jagarinec’s team will now need to adjust from their customary position as underdogs into dealing with being favourites in most fixtures for the next phase of the season.

Newcastle will face a trip to Perth where they will face an improving and defensively strong Glory side. A result there could reignite their season.

Teams: NEWCASTLE JETS (4-3-3): Leat, Cicco, Prior, Bates, Breier, L Allan, Dundas, J Allan, Copus-Brown, Ayres, Hoban. Substitutes: Adams, Brown, Johnson, Ritchie, Page, Wilson.

CANBERRA UNITED (4-4-2):  James, Grove, Robers, Bertolissio, Gordon, Sasaki, Taylor-Young, Hawkins, Heyman, Aulicino. Substitutes: Dales, Christopherson, Stanic-Floody, Malone, Majstorovic, Wardlow.

Scorer: Dale 93’

Referee: Molly Godsell

Attendance: 1,614.

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Victory score three in added time to rescue point against Mariners

Central Coast Mariners 3-3 Melbourne Victory

By Isabelle Campbell 27/12/25

Above: Rhianna Pollicina. Photo: Melbourne Victory.

What had looked like a comfortable afternoon for the Mariners turned into one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent A-League history. Central Coast had taken a commanding lead in the second half, but Melbourne Victory staged a remarkable fightback in stoppage time to secure a 3-3 draw at Polytec Stadium in their second meeting of the season.

Central Coast Mariners welcomed Melbourne Victory for the second meeting between the two sides this season, in a fixture carrying added significance after last year’s Grand Final that saw Victory fall in penalties.

After several high-intensity clashes in recent history, the rivalry between the two sides continues to grow into a notable one.

Melbourne Victory controlled possession in the opening minutes but struggled to turn that dominance into a clear-cut chance, often falling short with the final pass. Holly Furphy registered the game’s first attempt on goal, though her effort was comfortably gathered by Mariners goalkeeper Annalee Grove.

Central Coast began to grow into the contest midway through the half, with Izzy Gomez getting a shot away, but she was unable to keep her effort on target. Victory continued to push, and in the 20th minute Furphy came close again, firing narrowly over the crossbar with a well-struck effort.

At the other end, Annalise Rasmussen won a free kick in a promising position for the hosts, but the resulting set piece failed to trouble Victory keeper Courtney Newbon. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Peta Trimis produced a moment of brilliance, unleashing a stunning strike from around 30 yards that flew into the back of the net to give the home side the lead.

Victory responded and Furphy was again denied in agonising fashion, this time seeing her effort crash against the crossbar. Just before halftime, Rhianna Pollicina earned a free kick for the visitors. Alana Jančevski opted for a short pass to Pollicina, briefly catching the Mariners defence off guard, but the resulting effort only found the side netting.

The teams headed into the break with Central Coast Mariners holding a 1-0 lead.

Central Coast Mariners began the second half on the front foot, continuing to look dangerous in attack. Peta Trimis delivered a quality cross into the box early on, searching for Annalise Rasmussen, but the chance was cleared by the Victory defence.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 52nd minute when Rasmussen struck from the right side of goal, finishing confidently after Izzy Gomez provided her second assist of the match. The Mariners showed no signs of slowing, and Rasmussen was soon on the scoresheet again as Annabel Martin threaded a perfectly weighted ball through to the forward, who converted from close range to complete her brace and extend the lead to 3-0.

Melbourne Victory turned to their bench in search of a response, with substitute Ella O’Grady making an immediate impact. She tested the Mariners defence with a shot in the 76th minute that drifted just wide of the post. Victory continued to push forward, creating chances through O’Grady and Sofia Sakalis, but the breakthrough remained elusive.

That changed in the first minute of added time when Rhianna Pollicina fought her way through the defence and slotted the ball into the net to give the visitors hope. With four minutes remaining, Victory surged forward once more, and just two minutes later Sakalis found the back of the net to reduce the deficit to just one goal.

The late drama was not finished there. In a moment of brilliance, O’Grady produced a piece of magic to score from outside the box and bring the match level, completing a stunning added-time comeback for Victory, with all three of their goals coming after the 90th minute.

Teams: CENTRAL COAST MARINERS (4-4-2): Grove, Barwick-Grey, Martin, Gomez, Rasmussen, Kraszula, Quilligan, King, Trimis, Baumann, Coco-Di Sipio. Substitutes: Farrow, Levin, Buchanan, Familton, Clough, Varley.

Goals: Trimis31’, Rasmussen 53’, 61’.

MELBOURNE VICTORY (4-4-2): Newbon, Maher, Morrison, Bunge, Pickett, Jančevski, Pollicina, Lowe, Sakalis, Furphy, White. Substitutes: Blissett, Ray, O’Grady, Saveska, Techera, Woodward.

Goals: Pollicina 90+1’, Sakalis 90+3’, O’Grady 90+4’

Referee: Page Malau-Aduli

Attendance: 1,427.

Adelaide secure crucial home win in seven goal thriller

Adelaide United 5-2 Western Sydney

by Callum Logie (27/12/25)

Above: Erin Healy (left) celebrates scoring her first goal with Emily Hodgson (right). Photo: via the A-Leagues.

Adelaide United returned to the winners list of the A League Women’s in a huge way, recording a statement win over the Western Sydney Wanderers 5-2.

Erin Healy led the way scoring a brace, and was assisted by Emily Hodgson, Paige Zois and Chelsea Dawber. Allyssa Ng-Saad and Chloe Berryhill also got on the board for the vanquished Wanderers, but it was not enough.

In the 10th minute of the game, Matilda McNamara found herself some space from around 22 yards out, and posed the first true test for the Western Sydney keeper, Shamiran Khamis. Khamis was able to collect confidently and keep the score level, Western Sydney absorbing the bulk of the pressure in the first ten minutes.

10 minutes later, a chance developed out of nothing from Tahlia Younis. A couple of aerial battles led to Younis picking up the ball in an advanced position and after getting the best of Zoe Tolland with the dribble, Melegh charged out which nearly cost the hosts a goal. However, Melegh’s efforts saw Younis end up directing a tame effort wide of the goal.

A moment later, Adelaide broke their goal drought with Hodsgon poaching a goal in the 6-yard box after a determined cross from an outstretched Adriana Taranto. The play was all set up from the creative work out wide from Emily Condon. This gave Adelaide a deserved lead for a team that was in control for most of the first half.

For Western Sydney, the key to attack was finding Yuan Cong in advanced positions and allowing her to hold up the play for Kim So-Eun and Berryhill to break forward and run in behind the Adelaide defence.

Taranto made a challenge in midfield in the 30th minute which set up Dawber in a decent position. Dawber confidently played it through to Healy who ran into the box from the final third. Healy’s effort was directed wide, but Adelaide’s hard work in the midfield was paying dividends with breakaway chances.

Condon again was the instigator for Adelaide’s second goal, this time receiving the ball on the right side of midfield and cutting the ball back to Zois on the edge of the box. After taking a touch, Zois was able to drive a beautifully struck curled effort into the top left corner to grab her first goal for Adelaide United.

Healy was determined in the first half, pressing forward along with Dawber and creating another half-chance in the 38th minute, driving a snapshot wide after winning the ball at the edge of the box.

McNamara regularly made runs forward, the Western Sydney midfield too occupied with Zois and the Taranto twins to close her down. In added time, McNamara found herself all the way forward to the edge of the box and struck an effort just off target.

The pressure from Adelaide did not relent, and they got their reward just before half time as Healy received the ball on the edge of the box, dribbled outside before cutting inside and drove an excellent shot at the near post to extend the lead to 3 goals at half-time.

At the beginning of the second half, Western Sydney substituted Ng-Saad onto the field and the change had an immediate impact as Ng-Saad was able to strike a speculative effort past Melegh who was out of position. While it was still a multiple goal deficit, the 17 year-old’s first A-League goal lit a match for the visitors.

The following 15 minutes were rather tensely contested.

Many a midfield battle was taking place with Adelaide trying to break down the defence controlling possession while Western Sydney pressed and tried to move with pace.

At 61 minutes, Dawber received a nice cross at the edge of the box after some determined work from Hodgson, but her strike was straight at Khamis who was able to collect confidently.

Dawber had another chance 4 minutes later after winning possession high up the pitch. Her shot was slightly hindered by Ella Buchanan and it ended up straight at Khamis once again, denying the forward her first goal of the season.

After the slip earlier in the half, the Reds continued to create chances and were rewarded again at 68 minutes. Dawber finally had her goal after some determined play from substitute Fiona Worts. Worts played the ball back to Dawber on the edge of the box who struck an excellent shot past Khamis to make it four goals for the Reds.

While they were down, the Wanderers certainly were not out after a great run forward from Danika Matos led to a low driven cross to Berryhill who converted from in close.

At 78 minutes, Younis got onto the ball in an advanced area and directed a low driven shot at goal. Melegh did very well to dive down to her right and collect the ball without spilling as the determined Wanderers were looking for any chance to get a goal back.

In the 86th minute, after a period of parity, Adelaide struck again after a terrific free kick cross from Zois found the head of Healy who doubled her goal total for the game, making the lead insurmountable for Western Sydney.

Adelaide scored more goals in this game than they had for the rest of the season, but now that it has started raining, the team will be hoping the goals pour in from here out after such an impressive goal scoring performance.

Western Sydney left the fixture with more questions than answers, but they can take solace in that they never gave up and were able to score a couple of goals against a team that were better on the day.

While this only moves Adelaide United to 10th on the table, it puts them within striking distance of the top six, only two points separating 6th and 10th place.

Teams: ADELAIDE UNITED (4-2-3-1): Melegh, E. Hodgson, Tonkin, McNamara, Tolland, M. Taranto, Zois, Condon, Healy, A. Taranto, Dawber. Substitutes: I. Hodgson, Jenkins, Makris, Morgan, Murray, Worts.

Scorers: E. Hodgson 22′, Zois 35′, Healy 45 + 4′, 86, Dawber 68′.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (3-4-3): Khamis, Wong, Harrison, Cerne, Matos, Chessari, Younis, Buchanan, Kim, Yuan, Berryhill Substitutes: Bennett, Caspers, Edwards, Harada, Hooks, Ng-Saad.

Scorer: Ng-Saad 48′, Berryhill 75′.

Referee: Izzy Cooper

Attendance: 5,781.

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Ella Tonkin: Adelaide United are “one game away from breaking things open”

by Ben Gilby (24/12/25)

Above: Adelaide United’s Ella Tonkin talking to the media today. Image: Adelaide United.

Ella Tonkin believes that success for Adelaide United in Saturday’s battle of the bottom two against Western Sydney Wanderers at Coopers Stadium will be the springboard for a successful 2026.

“It’s a hugely important game this Saturday…we historically do quite well against them…we can be really successful, I think we’re honestly just one game away from breaking things open this season – we need just one positive successful performance and I think we’ll be off, and I reckon that will be this weekend.”

The 23-year-old defender believes that all the foundations were there to be seen for the South Australian side in last weekend’s loss at Perth Glory, but they just need to make the most of their attacking weapons to turn pressure into goals.

“The result was disappointing, but there are a lot of positives to take out of that game. I thought we were dominant, we had a lot of the ball, and some good passages (of play), it’s now just about turning that possession into meaningful attack and capitalising on our chances.

“A team is most successful when they are all on the same page, working towards the same thing – so we stick to the same processes and just sharpen up on them this week and hopefully the result will come on Saturday.”

Adelaide went into the game in Perth in recovery mode after being decimated by a flu bug that led to the postponement of their game with Melbourne City. It was a process that Tonkin admits was “really difficult” for the playing group.

“People (were) in and out of the team, (there were) smaller training sessions. It was difficult to manage…but we’re all healthy and back.”

After long term success and stability under Adrian Stenta’s stewardship, the Reds are coached by Theo Tsiounis this season, and Tonkin recognises that it’s been a positive change.

“I’ve learned a lot from Theo from a personal perspective. I’ve really grown as a player and I love the girls. We just need to get those results and this year will be perfect. I think we can start doing that from this weekend onwards

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Ten wins on the bounce and six points clear at the top; could this Man City team get better?

By Ben Tattoo (23/12/25)

Above: Manchester City’s squad photo for the season Photo: @ManCityWomen on X

In the second of a number of interviews with WSL fans about their seasons and the January, Ben Tattoo speaks to Manchester City fan Cath Thurlow

Cath, welcome to Impetus. You’re a Manchester City fan. Could you tell me a bit more about your history with the club, please?

I was brought up watching men’s football, and I’ve been supporting Man City women for about three years now, because they are the nearest WSL team to where I am. So that’s why I first went, and the first game I went to was Chelsea versus Man City.

Emily Heaslip was the ref, I think she was quite new to refereeing at the time, and she sent off Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp and booked five other players, including the manager.

I think that almost radicalised me into being a Man City fan (laughs), because I was so angry that somebody dared to send off Alex Greenwood!

How were you feeling about the transfer business before this season began?

I was a bit worried that we hadn’t bought a lot (of players), but I have to say, (Iman) Beney is brilliant and Jade Rose has really got potential. Kerolin signed last season; I wasn’t very impressed at first but she’s just coming into her own and is looking very good.

I think some of this must be down to Andrée (Jeglertz), who I’m really impressed with. What he’s bringing out in the team is brilliant. You can see it from the signings, how well they’ve fitted in, and the team are flourishing.  I think those three were particularly good signings.

I was gutted to lose Chloe Kelly, that made me very sad, but I know other Man City fans who don’t feel the same, so it is a difficult issue.

I do feel like we need someone to cover (Leila) Ouahabi at left back.  She’s brilliant, she’s really solid, but she is getting on and if she gets injured, I don’t really like it when Alex (Greenwood) goes there. I know that she’s said that she’s happy to play there, but she’d prefer to be at center-back.

How do you feel the season has gone so far?

I’m really happy, because I feel the way I felt the season before last. It was joyful, the football, and it almost wasn’t about winning, it was about the way they played.

I would leave feeling inspired and happy, and then last season was such hard work. It’s just brilliant being able to watch such good football in such a safe environment, so I’m just so happy.

I love it because everyone’s developing. I love the way Bunny (Shaw) is dropping back and the way that Viv (Miedema) and Bunny are playing together.

 The way that Laura Blinkilde-Brown is coming on is really positive, and I feel like that’s because she’s working with Yui Hasegawa, who is probably one of the best defensive midfielders. She is also stretching herself more.

Can you see anyone leaving in January?

I love Khiara Keating, but I would cope with her going on loan if she was going somewhere where she could get regular minutes, because she was so good in that first season (2023-2024).

She stepped up, time and again, and it’s a bit harsh that she isn’t our number one. I don’t want her to go, but I would like her to be playing every week, and if that meant going on loan, I might be able to cope with that (laughs).

Do you think City need to strengthen anywhere?

As I said earlier, I would like someone to come in as a backup for Leila (Ouahabi), and to rotate a bit, just to give her a break.

What I worry about is that we don’t have another out-and-out striker apart from Bunny.

We’ve got wingers who can play in that position, but I would like us to get a younger striker who could swap for Bunny up front.

Who would you like to see City sign?

You know, I feel like there aren’t many good strikers anymore, they’re all wingers/strikers, it’s interesting the way the game is – developing, even (Alessia) Russo.

I wouldn’t mind someone who is young, up-and-coming, like Michelle Agyemang, just to develop them really.

On the fan groups that I’m in there are people wanting Esme Morgan back, which I wouldn’t say no to. I think that would be great, but I don’t know if that’s a position that we’re desperate for right now.

Do you think that not playing in Europe has given Man City a big advantage over teams like Chelsea, for example?

It seems to have done, because last season, although we had some brilliant games, it did seem to cripple us, but I think we have a better squad and a better manager now.

So, I think we probably could have done it, but I’m happy, really, that we’re kind of recalibrating and rebuilding. Especially with a new manager, I guess it’s good to have that, (for) a season.

If you could take any player from any other team, money’s no object, they sign for you straight away, put them in the Manchester City blue. Who would it be?

Well, Michelle Agyemang, because like I said, I think she would work brilliantly with Bunny and Viv, and she is very creative and instinctive.

I would love to have someone as backup for Yui Hasegawa, someone to rotate on with. Which would probably have to be Keira Walsh.

Someone like Niamh Charles to provide another option at left back – that would be great. Or Katie McCabe – not that she’d ever leave Arsenal!

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Grant Scott jumps ship after Celtic beat Hibs with audacious goal directly from kick-off

Hibernian 1-2 Celtic

By Gethin Thurlow at Meadowbank for Impetus (23/12/25)

Above: Grant Scott with the SWPL title in May last year Photo: @Record_Sport on X

Celtic poached the three points and manager from Hibs in what was a blockbuster 24 hours between the clubs.

First of all, Maria McAneny scored an incredible goal directly from the opening kick-off, with Celtic eventually going on to win 2-1 and leave the hosts 13 points behind Glasgow City in their title defence. Then on Monday, Scottish football was rocked as they awoke to the news that Grant Scott had signed a contract with Celtic, as the Hibees received a compensation fee for the contract being broken.

Grant Scott leaves Hibs as a legend for bringing them a first title in almost 20 years, having had cup success in his earlier reign as boss too. Elena Sadiku was the manager to bring Celtic the SWPL title for the first time ever, but times have gone downhill since then and a victory in this game was not enough to save the Swedish manager.  

Teams

Still struggling with injuries, Hibs at least had positive news in that Eilidh Adams started a second game in a row after her injury return, while Rachel Boyle started in midfield as she manages her second comeback of the season. Lauren Doran-Barr got another shout at right back ahead of Caley Gibb, while Scarlett Herron kept cementing her place at centre back as Linzi Taylor remains sidelined.

In what would be her final match, Elena Sadiku enjoyed the return of Scotland winger Maria McAneny, putting her straight into the starting lineup. Lisa Robertson and Momo Nakao played together in midfield, with Nakao allowed to press up and really challenge the Hibernian defence. Gallacher and Noonan started together as well, meaning the Irish striker gave Celtic a focal point at the top. Jenny Smith started on the right wing as Morgan Cross was benched.

The Action

The game began in absolutely incredible fashion, as Saoirse Noonan laid off the ball for Maria McAneny, who smashed it straight for the goal. I think everyone in the stadium expected it to fly over the bar, but Noa Schumacher started backtracking and suddenly there was a collective breath held. Despite the Americans’ best efforts, her hands could do nothing to stop the ball from dropping into the top of the goal.

Going behind before they even touched the ball, Hibs’ resilience was tested early on, especially within the context of them dropping points with a draw at Montrose last weekend. They were also challenged by a high Celtic press, with Amy Gallacher and Noonan both carrying the pressing capabilities of strikers, while Momo Nakao is always looking to nip the ball from opponents.

In the first half it was the Hibees on the ball for the majority, but not in the areas they’d like. The visitors had the bets of the chances, with Schumacher making a strong save from McAneny.

Hibs enjoyed success down the right, with winger Hannah Luke at left back, as Kirsty Morrison put up a few crosses. Most of these went to the back post and Rosie Livingstone couldn’t get a touch on them. The most threatening cross was along the ground, and on the stretch Eilidh Adams could only force it wide of the post. 

Just before half time, Ciara Grant took a free kick which bounced around the edge of the box for a bit. Eventually it fell to Scarlett Herron, who sliced the ball home on her left foot. Having scored in the Dryburgh 7-0 and last week’s 1-1 draw at Montrose, the Irish centre back is Hibernians most reliable goal scorer at the moment.

The midfield battle was fiercely fought, with Lisa Robertson and Momo Nakao both being defensive minded with a great ability to win the ball back. Ellis Notley and Ciara Grant did the same job for Hibs, while Rachel Boyle played the role of disturber to the front three.

Lisa Rodgers wasn’t called into action too much, aside from a number of shots from outside the box. Schumacher however had a number of tough shots to face. None more so than a penalty from Noonan. Siobhan Hunter had barged into McAneny very late after a pass in the box, and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Diving left, the American pushed the initial effort out, but Noonan was right on the rebound and Schumacher could do nothing about it.

They brought Caley Gibb and Tegan Bowie on in the wide areas, soon joined by Tiree Burchill, Hannah Jordan and Jess Fitzgerald as they pushed for an equaliser. Bowie saw a lot of the ball on the left-hand side, as Jordan, Grant and Notley all frantically played in the wingers whenever they could. Lisa Rodgers had to come and strongly claim a few high balls, which she did.

All was not plain sailing however as she struggled to pass out especially when under pressure. Once, she took aim at Kirsty Morrison, who’s long range strike flew past the post.

Looking to secure the win, Celtic turned to Chloe Craig, who made her return from a long-term ACL recovery just two weeks. On the left side of defence, she looked solid and nullified the threats from Burchill and Morrison where she could.

Morgan Cross replaced Noonan and played out of position as the striker. She missed an absolute howler as Hunter was caught on by McAneny on the halfway line, who then ran down and provided the unmarked winger with a perfect chance. It seemed like Cross has too much time to think about it and she ended up skying the chance.

Given the various contentious referee interventions/non-interventions and Celtic’s late time-wasting, there was a large spate of extra time. The whistle was eventually blown however with Hibs unable to find another goal, and in all likelihood the whistle was blown on their title defence.

Player of the Match Maria McAneny

Scoring one of the most audacious and quickest goals in the history of football, Scotland’s newest SWPL debutant was magical from the first (four) seconds in Edinburgh. The acknowledgement of her talent by Melissa Andreatta seems to have brought out extra confidence in McAneny. She was charging up and down that wing like she owned it today, and despite some great defending from Doran-Barr, she ultimately did own it.

Her pace, skill and power have always been there, but this year she’s added some more in-game reading and now can influence games throughout. Sunday’s game was no different, and it was not surprising at all that McAneny was the one to draw a foul for the penalty. Whenever Celtic needed that spark, they turned to her and she continually delivered.

Where this leaves the teams

Hibs suffered another blow in this horrible run of form. Having picked up just 2 points in the last four games, they’ve been outscored by Montrose (5), Partick Thistle (6) and Motherwell (3), as well as the other four professional teams. Injuries and a bad schedule have lined up at the worst possible time for them, and the title winning side has looked a shell of itself without Kathleen McGovern and Linzi Taylor.

Given Glasgow City’s victory later in the day, they are now 13 points clear of the Hibees. While the split does give opportunities for the table to change drastically, that gap is probably too much to close – especially with the Old Firm rivals and Hearts six points closer to City. Hannah Jordan looked good in her cameo, while Scarlett Herron continues to impress at both ends of the pitch, so there are at least some positives looking ahead to the future.

It feels like Hibs were able to accept that the title was gone, and they would take the buy-out money from Celtic and invest it to rebuild this squad. The transfer strategy of this summer was very much focused on bringing in young players, and they will continue to flourish over the next five years. With the entire winter break to find an adequate replacement, this is probably the best in-season time to lose a manager.

It was a massive win Celtic. Since beating Hearts on the opening day, they’d only taken one point off the other professional teams, so coming to Edinburgh and proving they were still at that level was so important for the Glasgow side.

The research was clearly done pre-game to know that Noa Schumacher would be vulnerable to a direct kick-off goal but actually pulling it off is another ball game. If the Ghirls can keep up this form heading into the split, with Rangers still developing under their new manager and questions over Hearts’ ability to sustain a title challenge, they could be the ones to give City a run for the SWPL title.

Grant Scott has experience winning trophies over his two runs at the reigning champions, as well as that glorious title win last year. Without a strong distinctive style of play, Scott will likely assess the squad and build it from that. Key in his plans should be Scotland defender Emma Lawton, McAneny, the dynamic midfielder Momo Nakao – who offers something slightly different than his Hibs players did.

Teams: HIBERNIAN (4-2-3-1) Schumacher, Doran-Barr, Hunter, Herron, Papadopoulos, Notley, Grant, Morrison, Boyle (c), Livingstone, Adams. Substitutes: Gibb (for Doran-Barr 73’), Bowie (for Morrison 73’), Burchill (for Notley 79’), Hannah Jordan (for Adams 79’), Fitzgerald (for Boyle 79’).

Scorer: 1-1 Herron 41’.

CELTIC (4-3-3): Rodgers, Lawton, Clark (c), Walsh, Luke, Nakao, Robertson, Gallacher, Smith, Noonan, McAneny. Substitutes: Cross (for Noonan 73’), Craig (for Gallacher 73’), Westin (for Nakao 81’).

Scorers: 0-1 McAneny 1’, 1-2 Noonan 56’.

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Peters: “I’m really proud of the players” as Perth Glory look ahead to City challenge

by Ben Gilby (23/12/25)

Above: Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters talking to the media today. Image: Perth Glory

Perth Glory head coach Stephen Peters is well aware of the challenge his side face in Sunday’s game at Melbourne City, but given that his players have gained two straight victories against teams who have dominated possession against them, he believes they are capable of extending their unbeaten run at AAMI Park.

Those victories against Adelaide United and Wellington Phoenix came with Glory coming out on top despite, at times having significantly less of the ball and territory. Peters recognised: “Adelaide are the second highest in the league for possession, so they are very good at retaining the ball, they’re just not converting it into goals.”

“In my opinion, Wellington are a very good side, and they showed that against Sydney. Those two teams, just because Glory beat them 1-0 doesn’t mean they’re bad sides. They’re good sides, and I think it puts us in good stead going into this game because I think it’s similar characteristics in terms of both those teams…want to dominate the ball, City certainly want to dominate the ball, they’re just a bit more fine tuned in certain areas.

“I’m just really proud of the players who have put us in a position where we can take this challenge on in a good mindset.

“It’s a good platform for us, but we can’t get too excited as we have lots of areas to improve in, and there’s a lot of football in front of us and City are a great challenge for us, and a team we respect highly, but we obviously can’t respect them too much.”

Perth’s focus for Sunday’s showdown will be on maintaining focus and making the bare minimum of mistakes on top of taking chances when they come.

“They (Melbourne City) are an incredible challenge. You always have that game in the back of your mind, particularly in that stadium (AAMI Park), so we’re going to have to be very, very good, both with the ball, and without the ball. (We have to) pay attention to their strengths, but also try and highlight ours.

Above: Emma Tovar in action at Sydney FC earlier this season – Stephen Peters hopes to see her back on the pitch this coming Sunday. Photo: Ryan Millar-Woods for Impetus.

“We just have to be good with our high press. I think it’s something we bring to the table and we’ve got to be competent once we win the football. We have no problem winning the football off teams, it’s just what we do with it from there. I think it’s a little bit of a confidence thing – once we see some tangible outcomes from that, I think we’ll grow from that,” the Glory boss said.

In terms of injury news, Peters is waiting for further details on defender Onyi Zogg, who missed Sunday’s win over Adelaide United.

“It was a precaution to keep her out of that (Adelaide United) game because she was feeling a that quad a little bit, so hopefully the scan comes back good, and that she’s available to play.”

Whilst Zogg joined fellow back liner Naomi Chinnama on the sidelines last weekend, a young locally produced defence featuring Tijan McKenna, Mischa Anderson, and Grace Johnston were impressive, perhaps not surprising given how long the trio have played together in the Western Australian scene, despite their tender years.

Peters also gave an update on captain Izzy Dalton and Emma Tovar’s niggles, stating, “Dalts is going to be an ongoing one, we’re just going to have to keep on looking after her.

“She doesn’t know how to tune it down, she just goes an a hundred miles an hour, which we love about her. Emma, I’m hoping she’s pulled up well. I spoke to her yesterday (Monday) and she feels like she’s pretty good.”

Above: Perth Glory’s Grace Johnston – who had another strong showing against Adelaide United. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

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