There were some surprise results and epic encounters as the A-League Women nears the end of the regular season. Wellington Phoenix lifted to defeat the league leaders Sydney FC, forcing them to keep the champagne on ice for now.
Kate Taylor scored the only goal of the game against the reigning premiers. Sydney FC fielded a depleted squad, missing both first choice centre backs, along with breakout midfielder Shay Hollman who was away with The Young Matildas.
The absence of Nat Tobin and Charlotte McLean was most obviously felt when Sydney failed to clear a corner kick, and Taylor was able to angle her shot skilfully downward and past Katie Offer in goal.
It was a stunning win by the Phoenix, with coach Natalie Larwrence bravely keeping attacking stars Millie Clegg and Ava Pritchard in reserve until needed. This game was a question of depth as much as anything, and on the day, Wellington had it.
Western United had an opportunity to make a push for top spot against Brisbane Roar. It did not go to plan; although they had their chances in an entertaining game. Katrina Gorry was the dominant force on the pitch, but it was Shea Connors once again who scored twice to give Brisbane the win.
The win keeps Roar’s finals hopes mathematically alive. They need some luck, but have the momentum.
Perth Glory travelled to face Adelaide United, and a look at the ladder would have had them feeling confident of a win. In this league, the ladder means nothing and the Reds put in an excellent performance to stifle Glory’s momentum and take their own chance.
Morgan Aquino scored an own goal to put Adelaide in the lead, but Hannah Blake equalised for Perth. Fiona Worts scored a 70th minute winner to continue Adelaide’s late season improvement.
Dylan Holmes was in imperious form for Adelaide. Her strong midfield runs and ability to pop up on either side of the attack was an enormous factor in the win. It was a dominant game from the stand in captain.
Western Sydney and Canberra United played out a classic on Sunday afternoon. Canberra responded positive from their dramatic week, and drew level in spectacular style. Olivia Price opened the scoring for the Wanderers, but Vesna Milivojević replied almost immediately for the visitors.
Both sides desperately needed full points to keep their season alive, and Canberra looked to have snatched it. But Grace Maher’s goal bound free kick crashed off the underside of the crossbar in injury time.
To finish off the round, Melbourne Victory claimed a surprise win over Melbourne City. Victory took an early lead through a Melina Ayres penalty and a Paige Zois wonder strike before sitting back and defending for the next hour of play. It was a risky strategy against the creative and firepower of Melbourne City, but it paid off with a crucial win.
Talking Points Week 17
What to make of the Wanderers season.
Western Sydney’s season is effectively over. They are seven points outside of the top four and have only two games to play due to a Round 19 bye.
Judging solely on the ladder position, it is a slightly disappointing season by the Wanderers. They showed that they had the quality to compete against the top sides, and would have been a tough opponent in finals.
The season started frustratingly slowly, as new manager Kat Smith tried to mould the team in her style of play without conceding too many goals or points in a competition where every week is crucial.
As the weeks progressed, the pieces started to fall into place at the Wanderers. The defence had always been strong, but the midfield was starting to click. When Philippines striker Sarina Bolden arrived, and Sophie Harding adapted to her new role, the Wanderers transformed from competitive to dangerous.
Captain Clare Hunt received her first Matildas cap on the back of her league form, and prodigy Alexia Apostolakis continued her rise as one of the best young players in the country.
Crucially, the Wanderers developed depth. Angelique Hristodoulou returned to the club and was a valuable contributor when called upon. Bigger name signings like Amy Harrison and goalkeeper Jordan Bloomer were excellent and consistent.
But even when missing key players, the Wanderers still looked consistent. Sham Khamis was very good against Canberra United, and Harding stood up whenever Bolden was absent.
There are some pieces missing still. They need more threats down the wing, and more game changing players on the bench to join Melissa Caceres. Another playmaking midfielder would be helpful, and the development of Sienna Saveska will hopefully bring more promise.
Overall, there have been positive signs for Western Sydney, that they need to build on. If Smith gets the right off field support to build on the foundations she has laid this season, there could be bright days ahead for Western Sydney.
A Meeting of the minds at the Melbourne Derby
The Melbourne Derby was an intriguing meeting between two teams with coaches each flexible and committed to different ideas.
Victory manager Jeff Hopkins is devoted to the formation that has won two consecutive Grand Finals, and regular top four finishes.
Regardless of which players are available or who they are facing, it is a safe bet that Victory will play with four at the back. Attacks generally begin through either Kayla Morrison or Jess Nash’s passing.
City’s manager Dario Vidosic has strong, almost non compromising football principles. He believes in possession play, affirming this in his first media conference and saying “when we don’t have the ball, I suffer.”
Vidosic will adjust his formation to fit in the vast attacking talents at his disposal. It has produced some of the most stunning moments of the season.
Up against Victory, they faced a team that may not adjust their formation, but will drastically change their game plan week to week. In theory having one player adjusting to a new role works better than reshaping multiple positions. In this case it was Paige Zois at right back to deputise for Jessika Nash.
Victory came out full of intent and aggression. perhaps this was to beat the heat, or to catch the relatively young City players of guard. Once Victory had a 2-0 lead, they essentially sat back, defended in numbers. The formation remained 4-3-3, but they all played behind the ball.
Hopkins only made attacking substitutions late in the game. It gave City something to think about while they were chasing the two goal deficit.
When City made changes, the style remained much the same. It meant Victory had to change very little about their approach to close out the game. Victory were short on players, and up against a side with superior firepower, but stuck to the plan to win a vital three points. It was a performance similar to their Grand Final triumph over Sydney FC, and a fascinating clash of tactical ideas.
Game to watch in Week 18
Canberra United will host Melbourne Victory in a battle for fourth spot. It is fourth versus fifth and Victory have opened up a five point lead over their nearest threat. A win for the visitors will all but seal their finals spot, while if Canberra perform to their peak, they can close the gap and still make the top four even after their points deduction.
This is an early final between two entertaining, attacking sides. Both are capable of exhilarating football and stunning goals. It should be an excellent match and the most important of the round.
