The latest week of action delivered high drama in the WSL and beyond as Australia's female football stars continued to leave their mark across Europe. Front Page Football wraps up the best from the Tillies overseas in our Matildas abroad report.
Ellie Carpenter in action for the Matildas against Brazil at Suncorp Stadium. (Image: Richard Haines Photography)
WSL drama as Wheeler's Everton upset City
Mary Fowler converted a late penalty in Manchester City’s unexpected 2-1 loss to Everton.
Despite the result, Fowler was impressive in her effort and work rate, with her importance to City’s attack continuing to grow. Alanna Kennedy also featured, starting the match before being substituted at half-time.
On the other side of the pitch, Clare Wheeler delivered a midfield masterclass for the Toffees.
Her dominant performance, which included winning all her tackles, was pivotal in securing the shock win.
Cooney-Cross helps Arsenal stay intact
Elsewhere in the WSL, Arsenal edged Liverpool to stay in touch with league leaders Chelsea. Kyra Cooney-Cross controlled the midfield and played the full 90 minutes alongside fellow Matildas Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord.
Teagan Micah was in goal for Liverpool, making several outstanding saves to keep the scoreline close.
Despite the victory, Cooney-Cross wasn't convinced by the team's performance.
"It wasn't good enough from us today, and we know that. We're Arsenal, and it's not good enough," Cooney-Cross said post-game.
"It's another clean sheet, another win, so we've gotta take that."
Coming under new management recently, the Gunners are unbeaten across their last ten fixtures in all competitions, only conceding twice.
READ MORE ON FPF
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A-LEAGUE MEN: The young players impressing early
Gorry continues excellent form
In West Ham's 3-1 loss to Aston Villa, Katrina Gorry showcased her creative brilliance, assisting Viviane Asseyi’s equaliser in the first half.
Despite the result, Gorry's vision and leadership highlighted her growing importance to the Hammers, who continue to fight for points in the league's bottom half.
Consistent Carpenter as Lyon dominate
Ellie Carpenter helped Lyon cruise to a commanding 5-1 win over Nantes in the Arkema Première Ligue.
Carpenter played the full 90 minutes at right-back, reinforcing her reputation as a key part of Lyon’s defence.
With the win and still under Joe Montemurro's guidance, Lyon remains three points clear atop the table heading into the winter break, returning on January 9th.
What’s next for the Matildas abroad?
As the winter break approaches in Europe, the Matildas abroad have made their presence felt across the continent.
From Fowler’s continued impact at Manchester City to Carpenter’s reliability in Lyon’s star-studded squad, Australia’s stars remain pivotal in shaping their teams’ fortunes.
The WSL and Arkema Première Ligue are now in their mid-season break. Both leagues will not return until mid-January.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the Matildas abroad into 2025!
Click here to read more of Front Page Football's Aussies Abroad coverage!
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