Friday night football at The Web. Our first home match of the 2026 VPLW campaign. Lights, camera, action.
Last Sunday’s draw at Petty’s Reserve was frustrating, and it should be. Eleven shots to three in the first half against Manningham, two goals scored, one disallowed, and a former Melbourne Victory goalkeeper standing between the Redbacks and a thoroughly deserved win. Melissa Maizels was outstanding. The Eltham performance was better.
Izzy Berks was unplayable on the left. Claudia Dimasi scored and created. Paige Foa’s link play gave the front line a platform. The combinations Jonathan Barrientos has been building since November caused Manningham problems they had no answers for.
The 85th-minute equaliser stung. Former Redback Holly Tsalikidis at the back post, converting from a rare Manningham attack. Two of the hosts’ three shots all afternoon came from ex-Eltham players. Football’s sense of humour is rarely subtle.
Melbourne University are a step up from Manningham, and the Redbacks will know it. Albeit university club with a community identity, their women’s program has been one of the more consistent performers in this division. Finishing fifth last season, finishing above several more established VPL clubs, and carrying genuine attacking quality through the squad. They are not an opponent Eltham can afford to approach casually.
For the Redbacks, the equation is clear. Replicate the intensity and control of the Manningham first half, sustain it for the full 90. and convert your opportunities.
Berks will be central again. Her 43rd minute goal at Petty’s Reserve was a meagre reward for a performance that deserved two or three. Dimasi’s energy and movement unsettled Manningham’s shape and should have the same effect here. Taylor Halabi’s leadership and range from distance gives the Redbacks an option from outside the box. Tiana Orfanidis will need to be sharp behind them.
The Web’s synthetic surface is a factor. Eltham’s men have made this ground a difficult place to visit, and the women’s squad has the quality to do the same. Friday night, under lights, with a crowd behind them. The conditions are right. Three points in Round 2 would set the record straight.
Round 2 | Friday 13 March | 8:30 PM | Eltham North Reserve, The Web (Home)